American comics: Damn it, I’m surrounded by those who worry about their fathers!.

Chapter 1129 Machima: Is this my father?
On the ruins of Gotham, everyone was stunned for a moment.

When Artoria, wielding the "X-metal" longsword thrown by Peter, transformed into a meteor and pierced through Barbatos' massive body, the entire battlefield fell into an eerie silence.

Peter stood atop the clown's head, his mouth slightly open, a look of disbelief flashing in his eyes.

Barbatos was actually killed by King Arthur!
No, I haven't made a move yet!
I know Saber can win in the Holy Grail War, but can you win here too?

"She really did it!"

Raven hovered in mid-air, her face beneath the hood filled with astonishment.

She hadn't spent much time with Artoria and never imagined that this seemingly rigid and chivalrous "young King Arthur" possessed such immense power.

Diana, holding the Vulcan sword, also looked shocked.

As a princess of the Amazons, she could better appreciate the power contained in Artoria's sword strike.

"...Is this King Arthur?"

After a long pause, Diana murmured to herself.

Among the crowd, Mordred's reaction was the most complex.

She stood atop ruins, the tip of her knight's sword dangling to the ground, staring at Artoria with an incredulous expression.

This legendary "father" of hers seems to be completely different from the King Arthur story told by her father, and also different from the "king who doesn't understand people's hearts" she saw in her dream.

the other side.

Almost at the same time that Barbatos's body began to disintegrate, a violent chain reaction also occurred in the nest built by the Bats Who Laugh beneath Gotham.

Without the support of the original source of the evil god Barbatos, this space, which relied on the dark dimension for its existence, began to collapse rapidly.

The walls began to crack, the supporting metal beams twisted and broke, and the hot electrical pipes exploded one after another. The entire space was about to collapse completely.

“The cave is about to collapse, Machima, take the Watcher and let’s go.”

Bruce reacted quickly, enduring his injuries, and lifted the Monitor, still bound to the chair, up along with the chair.

He then swiftly rushed towards the exit he remembered.

Machima paused for a moment when she saw the cave collapse.

Her golden pupils swept across the ravaged cave, then her gaze fell upon the laughing bat at her feet, which lay dying, still emitting faint gurgling laughter from its throat.

A hint of lingering regret flashed across Machima's face. She stretched out her foot and kicked the broken ribs of the maniac with the tip of her shoe to confirm that he was still alive.

Then she bent down, grabbed the back of the Batman Who Laughs's tattered armor, and pulled him outside.

Behind her, the cave completely collapsed.

Bruce, carrying the Monitor, rushed out of the underground, almost grazing the edge of the cave's complete collapse, and returned to the surface of Gotham.

At this moment, although the crimson sky over Gotham is fading, the colossal multiverse tower built by Barbatos, which imprisoned the souls of countless people, still stands majestically.

The consciousness of countless beings remains trapped within it, and the crisis has not yet been completely resolved.

Bruce quickly returned with the Watchers to the place where Peter and Barbatos had fought.

Upon seeing Bruce arrive with a frail old man, Peter dismounted from the Joker Dragon and rushed to Bruce's side.

"Who is this? Bruce."

Peter asked, puzzled.

"This is a surveillance agent."

Bruce briefly recounted to Peter what had happened in the underground cave.

Peter was completely stunned after hearing this.

The Bat Who Laughs has such a world-destroying plan!
And what's more, the other party's plan was actually thwarted by his own daughter whom he had never met?
Peter increasingly felt that his daughter, who controlled the demon, was no ordinary person.

While Peter was in shock, the watcher was also observing him.

He had heard of Peter's name and knew about the mysterious figure's deeds.

Although the monitor was weak, his eyes had regained a sliver of clarity.

After Bruce introduced the Monitor to Peter, he frowned and asked the Monitor, "What should we do next?"

The monitor looked at Peter, then at Artoria, and at the silver-glowing armor of the others, and said, slightly out of breath:
“Peter Patrick, and Superman, what you are covered in is the Tenth Metal, the primordial substance from the furnace of the world, the embodiment of creation and hope.”

His gaze swept over Clark, Bruce, and Artoria, who was holding the "X" metal holy sword.

"It is not an external force; it exists deep within the core of all universes and all life, even in the smallest of moments... It is the cornerstone connecting all things, the resonance of existence..."

The monitor said with some difficulty, "Now, guided by the rich source of the tenth metal within you, you can awaken it, awaken all those trapped in the tower. Everyone in the universe has this metal in their body, and you can connect with them."

Bruce instantly understood and asked in a deep voice, "You mean, by using our armor as amplifiers to connect the consciousness networks of all life, we can... pull Earth back from the drag of the Dark Multiverse and save all the imprisoned life?"

The monitor nodded emphatically. "Yes."

When Peter heard the monitor say that, he beckoned Clark and Artoria over.

Since the monitors say so, it might actually work.

After all, Artoria was able to defeat Barbatos with the Tenth Metal.

Peter briefly spoke to Clark and Artoria, then asked them to come over and shake his hands.

The four held hands tightly, closed their eyes, abandoned all distractions, and completely immersed themselves in the connection with the tenth metal, guiding the metal's primal power.

“Concentrate,” Peter whispered, “use your mind to drive the power of the metal.”

As soon as Peter finished speaking, a gentle force began to awaken and gather around the four of them.

The tenth metal battle suits worn by the group burst forth with an unprecedentedly dazzling silver light.

This light did not feel dazzling to the people; instead, it gave them a sense of warmth, as vibrant as the rising sun.

The silver light spread out like ripples, quickly enveloping the entire battlefield and rapidly extending towards the giant tower that imprisoned the souls.

Under this light, the towering dark tower began to tremble violently, and countless cracks appeared on its surface.

Inside the tower, countless citizens who had been living in a nightmare with empty eyes seemed to see a guiding light in the endless darkness.

The public's apathy began to loosen.

"What's this?"

"The light... is so warm...!"

"Are we... saved?"

Whispers, sobs, prayers... countless suppressed emotions and hopes were awakened and connected by the gleam of metal at this moment.

Meanwhile, the consciousness of Peter and the others roamed within this vast mental network.

The group felt the fear and hope, sorrow and joy of countless lives. This experience transcended words and was a resonance and connection on an existential level.

Peter even felt his "vision" expand infinitely, seeing the endless multiverse, the birth and death of stars, the rise and fall of civilizations, and the collapsed Origin Wall at the end of the universe.

A powerful light, representing life and hope, almost solidified, enveloped every inch of the surrounding space, dispelling the last trace of darkness.

The power of the X-metal, once activated, transforms into an irresistible force that pushes everything back on track.

Not far away, Machima casually tossed the dying Laughing Bat to the ground.

She didn't feel much about these so-called "salvation" and "hope." In her view, it was just another form of order-building process.

However, her gaze was quickly drawn to the man at the very core of the light, who radiated endless silver brilliance and seemed to be the hub of the entire network.

Peter Padreik.

Her father.

This was the first time she had ever seen Peter in person.

Not through Lyra's or Barry's descriptions, not through vague feelings or contractual connections, but truly, gazing at Peter with her golden-rimmed eyes.

He didn't look particularly burly, and his face even showed a hint of fatigue.

But at this moment, under the vast silver radiance formed by the convergence of countless hopes of life, his father seemed to have become a god.

This is... a father?
The man who signed a "contract" with me, promising to bear all the consequences for me?

Machima's calm, still heart was now rippling as if a stone had been thrown into it.

She had seen powerful beings, such as Pochita (the chainsaw demon), whose pure, wild power she yearned for.

She had also encountered cunning beings, such as the laughing bat from just now.

But this was the first time she had encountered someone as complex and contradictory as Peter.

He possesses the power to tame the doomsday dragon and guide the hope of the universe, but he doesn't seem like the kind of person who likes to dominate.

Why would someone as powerful as him adopt so many children?

Could the reason really be some kind of love that she couldn't fully understand?

An unprecedented desire for possession and exploration quietly grew in Machima's heart.

She had initially viewed Peter merely as a powerful and worthy "target," but now, that "target" had become incredibly vivid and complex. In the unnoticed shadows, a tiny smile curved at the corners of Machima's lips.

"Please come in. I hope your clothes fit you all."

At Wayne Manor, butler Alfred bowed to welcome the guests in.

Peter, holding Machima's hand in one hand and Ceresa's hand in the other, nodded slightly to Alfred.

Machima wore an exquisite light red dress with a neatly folded white collar and meticulously crafted pleats on the skirt.

Ceresia, dressed in a light blue dress, curiously observed everyone in the hall.

"Thank you, Alfred."

Peter thanked Alfred and went into the hall.

Inside the hall, the light from the crystal chandelier spilled onto the polished marble floor, reflecting the figures of those coming and going.

Bruce Wayne, dressed in a well-tailored dark gray suit, was talking with Cyborg, Captain America, Tony Stark, and Thor.

Not far away, Artoria was stuffing steaks into her mouth one after another.

Her gluttonous antics left Leila and Zatanna, who were standing next to her, speechless.

No, is this still the same King Arthur who killed Barbatos yesterday?

"Dad, I want to eat that little cake."

Machima whispered, tugging at Peter's hand.

Upon hearing this, Peter looked down at his daughter, who was causing him so much trouble.

Since the great battle ended yesterday, and Peter awakened all those controlled by Barbatos, Machima walked up to him, called him "Papa" in an innocent voice, and then followed him like a real little lady.

Although he knew that the little devil's ladylike demeanor was definitely an act, Peter still pretended to be nonchalant, picked up Machima, and admitted that he was her father.

After all, the father sent by the system had signed a contract with him, so he couldn't just throw him away even if he was a hassle.

"You can only eat one, dinner is coming up soon."

When Machima heard Peter say that, she nodded obediently.

"I'll go keep her company."

Seresa offered to lead the way, taking Machima towards the dessert area.

"Look who's here."

Diana Prince walked gracefully in.

The princess of Paradise Island, dressed in a deep blue evening gown, exuded a noble air.

Diana was followed by Clark, Azu, and Horus.

"Congratulations, Peter, another new member has joined the family."

Diana said with a smile, glancing at Machima as she walked away.

Peter: "."

Why do I see a hint of schadenfreude in your gaze?
Clark, oblivious to Peter's gaze, awkwardly adjusted his tie.

“To be honest, Godfather, I still don’t quite feel comfortable in these kinds of situations. Diana just said I should have brought Louise, but I think…”

“Because he needs someone to give him a lesson in etiquette,” Diana interrupted, glancing at Hal Jordan nearby.

Hal was happily devouring a fruit pie when he noticed Diana's gaze. He quickly swallowed the food in his mouth and pointed to the crooked black bow tie at his collar: "Hey, I dressed up carefully, at least better than Barry, who showed up in flip-flops."

Upon hearing his name, Barry Allen instantly appeared beside Hal, holding a plate of food that was already half-eaten.

"Who's talking badly about me? Oh, Mr. Patrick, you've arrived! How's the new little girl doing?"

Barry lowered his voice and said to Peter, "I think there's something strange about this girl's background, sir."

Barry and Leila witnessed Machima's spaceship landing in the cornfield.

Peter nodded. "I know, thanks for reminding me, Barry."

As the group was talking, the Martian Hunter walked over.

"Hey, Peter."

Peter was excited to see Martian Manhunter, whom he hadn't seen in a long time, and gave him a tight hug.

"Long time no see, Rong En. I thought you had died in some corner of the universe."

"You too, Peter, haven't changed a bit over the years, and your mouth is just as annoying."

The Martian hunter patted Peter hard on the shoulder.

On the other side, Raven, Gwen, and Atomic Girl Eve are standing together talking.

Gwen kept adjusting the hem of her evening gown.

"Eve, could you take a look at the back for me? I feel like it's too cramped here."

Gwen turned around, revealing the zipper on her back.

Atomic Girl Eve tilted her head to observe: "There is a bit, do you need me to help you loosen the gaps between the molecules a little?"

Gwen: "You're not going to turn my body into molecules, are you? Never mind, I'll do it myself."

"I can help."

Fleur Delacour walked over, drew her wand, and said, "A simple stretching spell will solve the problem."

Gwen nodded gratefully: "Thank you. Raven picked out this dress for me. She insisted that I wear it, saying that it's a dress that conforms to popular aesthetics."

Gwen wanted to say something more, but Bruce, as the host, raised his voice and addressed everyone:
"Everyone, if I could take up a little of your time..."

The hall gradually quieted down, and all eyes turned to Bruce.

Bruce stood on a step a few inches higher to make sure he could see the entire room.

First of all, thank you all for coming.

Bruce raised his glass. "Yesterday, we faced together an enemy that threatened the entire multiverse. Many were injured, some sacrificed... but in the end, because of your courage and determination, light triumphed over darkness."

A low murmur of approval echoed through the hall.

"As a witness and participant in this battle."

Bruce continued, “I know we have all suffered tremendous losses, but today we are here not only to mourn, but also to celebrate the continuation of life and hope. For this, I want to especially thank one person who has tirelessly traveled through the universe to bring us together.”

“Mr. Peter Patrick”.

Bruce smiled at him. "Could you come up and say a few words?"

Upon hearing that Peter was to speak, everyone's attention immediately focused on him.

"Say a few words, Dad."

Raven walked over and said softly to him.

Peter glanced at Bruce with a hint of helplessness.

He had wanted to relax a bit, but this kid was trying to drag him onto the stage again.

I should have asked Jane to write some speeches for me.

Forced into a corner, Peter had no choice but to walk up to Bruce under everyone's watchful eyes.

"Thank you, Bruce."

Peter stood in the spot Bruce had given up, looking around at the familiar faces in the room—heroes, wizards, and superhumans from different universes.

"I'm not good at public speaking, especially in front of people I'm close to."

He paused for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the mischievous children.

Ah Zu stood ramrod straight, arms crossed over his chest, with a proud expression.

Ceresia smiled quietly, while Machima looked innocent and naive. Raven, Loki, Mark, and the others clapped softly below.

“Each of us has our own battles and our own beliefs. Bringing so many different people together should have been impossible.”

Peter continued, “But we did it, not out of fear or coercion, but because we shared a belief in something—that life is worth protecting, the future is worth fighting for, and love… is worth sacrificing.”

A few whispers of agreement came from the crowd.

“I especially want to thank my children,” Peter said, looking at Azu, Loki, Horus, and the others. “They taught me that growth is not always a straight line, but full of twists and turns and surprises, and that true love is unconditional.”

Finally, all I want to say is...

Peter raised the glass that had been placed in his hand without him noticing, "To those who cannot be with us, and to the future we protect together—cheers."

"cheers!!!"

(End of this chapter)