If 2B had taken action, with Iron Monger defense capabilities, it would have lasted at most a minute or two.
After all, 2B comes from the "NieR: Automata" world, and she specializes in fighting robots.
Although Iron Monger was larger and had newer armor, at its core, it was still a humanoid machine, precisely the type that 2B excels at dealing with.
If it had been Kanna instead, the battle might have been shortened to just one or two seconds.
In comparison, Shi Xiaolei efficiency was indeed much lower.
However, besides the family of three, no one knew 2B and Kanna true identities, much less their actual combat capabilities.
So, after the incident, the only person who attracted attention from various factions was Shi Xiaolei, who had participated in the battle.
"Take care, no need to see you out."
"Alright, welcome back anytime."
"No problem, we'll be in touch when we have time."
After accompanying little Kanna to see off her friends and their parents, Shi Xiaolei lowered his gaze and patted the little girl head.
"Kanna, did you have fun today?"
"Mm~."
Looking up, Kanna responded with contentment.
Perhaps because she had such a good time with her friends, her fair, tender little face still had two patches of lingering blush.
The old saying was indeed true, children are quick to forget.
Less than a day had passed, and the little girl had already forgotten the accident at Central Park yesterday, returning to her usual adorable and lively self.
"Let's go back. Let me tell you a secret, I've hidden three puddings that I didn't bring out earlier. We can have one each, how about that?"
"Mm-hmm~."
With her eyes gleaming, the little girl grabbed Shi Xiaolei thick finger and was about to scamper back into the house on her short legs.
Just then, an extremely flashy sports car drove up and screeched to a halt in front of them.
Tony Stark, wearing sunglasses, stepped out of the car.
Shi Xiaolei had guessed that Tony Stark would come looking for him sooner or later, but he hadn't expected him to come so quickly.
To be honest, he was genuinely surprised.
"Little one, weren't you scared yesterday? This is a gift I prepared for you."
Instead of addressing Shi Xiaolei first, Tony Stark approached little Kanna, crouching down and pulling out a small gift box tied with colorful ribbons from behind his back.
Looking at Stark, then glancing up at Shi Xiaolei, Kanna bit her finger, her small face showing some hesitation.
"Xiaolei, can I accept it?"
"Go ahead, but don't forget to say thank you."
"Mm."
Only then did Kanna accept the small gift box and gave Stark an adorably sweet smile.
"Thank you."
Even Tony Stark, who was typically arrogant to the point of self-importance and used to looking down on others, couldn't resist the little girl cuteness.
He instinctively reached out to pat Kanna head, a warm smile unconsciously appearing on his face.
But it didn't last long, by the time he stood up, his expression had returned to its usual demeanor.
Here he was, supposedly coming to express gratitude, yet his tone carried a hint of flippancy.
"We meet again, big guy. What should I call you? Medieval gladiator, or...?"
"Rock."
"Alright, Rock."
Looking around, Stark raised an eyebrow.
"I suppose I don't need to introduce myself. I'd like to have a chat with you. Could we find a quieter place?"
"Let's talk inside."
Tilting his head to signal Stark to follow, Shi Xiaolei turned around and led Kanna into the house.
With a shop-front-and-living-quarters layout, the living space was a bit small.
Having only set it up two or three months ago, they hadn't had time to buy many things, so the household items were somewhat sparse.
An ordinary person would find it slightly austere, let alone Tony Stark, who was accustomed to luxury.
'I'll add another zero to the check.'
Stark thought to himself.
"Have a seat. Would you like something to drink?"
After sending Kanna back to her room, Shi Xiaolei pointed to a chair at the table.
"I only have cola, instant coffee, and Chinese liquor."
"...No, thanks."
Declining Shi Xiaolei offer and feeling slightly uncomfortable sitting in the folding chair, Stark got straight to the point about his purpose.
"I came to see you today for two reasons..."
While he only mentioned "repaying yesterday help" and "not disclosing information to outsiders" there was actually another strong curiosity in Tony Stark mind—whether it was Shi Xiaolei ability to instantly don and remove armor like a transformation, the special effects attached to his weapons, or his physical prowess that allowed him to leap dozens of meters in a single bound.
In short, all the abilities Shi Xiaolei had displayed during yesterday battle attracted Stark like a beautiful and mysterious woman would.
Out of his inner pride, Stark didn't voice these thoughts.
"So, is this hush money?"
Looking at the check Stark pushed toward him, Shi Xiaolei chuckled wryly.
"No, this is just a token of gratitude."
"I've never stooped to buying silence."
Stark retorted.
"That's true. You're not afraid to tell everyone which women you've slept with. With your personality, there's indeed no need."
"Anyway, if you don't want to attract trouble for yourself, it's best not to talk about this."
"I'm not worried. Whether it's the CIA, FBI, or those paparazzi reporters, no one dares to disrespect me. But given your situation... sorry, I can't permanently assign people to help you deal with those troubles."
Stark nodded smugly.
You've already been targeted by Coulson, what good would your help do.
Wait, could that incident yesterday attract HYDRA attention? Sigh, I should have been less impulsive.
Not knowing what Shi Xiaolei was pondering, seeing him silent for several seconds, Stark thought he was worried about future troubles.
After some thought, Stark couldn't resist his inner desire and blurted out a proposition.
"Or how about this? I'll fund a team specifically to handle your subsequent troubles. In exchange, you cooperate with me on a few experiments?"
"Hmm?"
Coming back to his senses upon hearing the word "experiments" Shi Xiaolei instinctively became wary, with hostility showing in his eyes.
"To be honest, I'm really curious about the abilities you displayed yesterday."
Stark continued, now that he had started.
"Can you tell me about it? How did you manage to change your outfit instantly, and what's the deal with those weapons you used in battle?"
To tell or not to tell?
After quick deliberation, Shi Xiaolei made his choice.
"You really want to know?"
"..."
Looking into Shi Xiaolei eyes, Stark didn't speak but pulled out his checkbook again from his pocket. (T/N: If a problem can be solved with money, it's not a problem at all~)
"Hehe, since you're so straightforward, I'll tell you a little bit."
(T/N: Like the story fellow daoist?you can read 20 chapters ahead on my P@treon [p@treon.com/DaoistRongyi] Thanks for your support! 😊)