Hulk : The Thunderstrike

As the person approached, John and Roosevelt quickly went up to greet him.

"Director, it's true! But about today's thief-catching operation, Gojo and I only assisted. The real hero here is the new recruit from the Chicago Police Department, Antonia!"

Following John's gaze, Shazam, the director of the Chicago Police Station, saw Antonia standing nearby.

Oh, my goodness!

Shazam was armed, having equipped himself with a firearm because of the large number of criminals on the scene. To be extra cautious, he had even taken an additional magazine from the instructor.

Seeing Antonia, Shazam almost drew his gun on instinct.

Thankfully, Antonia was wearing a police uniform, which calmed his nerves. Only after recalling John's explanation did Shazam manage to hold back.

Still, Chicago Police Station had been in the spotlight lately, and now another standout officer had appeared?

Before arriving, Shazam had been briefed by John about the situation at the scene.

But seeing is believing.

When he got there, he couldn't help but re-assess everything for himself.

Wait…a sergeant?!

"You must be Antonia, right?" Shazam's eyes lit up as he stepped forward and extended his hand. "Hello, I'm Shazam, the director of the Chicago Police Station!"

Antonia immediately stood at attention like a soldier.

He saluted. "Hello, Director Shazam!"

"Good! Very good!"

Shazam sized up Antonia, growing more impressed by the second. He returned Antonia's salute with enthusiasm. "What a solid young man!"

"Antonia, I've heard all about your feats, especially the incident on Elm Street this morning. I swear, my ears have been buzzing from all the praise!"

"Not bad, really not bad! Speaking of which…"

Shazam, entirely devoid of arrogance, spoke warmly to Antonia.

When John first reported this, Shazam had been skeptical. But after repeated reassurances from John, who had a solid reputation, Shazam decided to see for himself.

Even after seeing the criminals lined up against the wall, he found it hard to believe.

Then he learned of Antonia's deeds at the bus station earlier that day. This officer, just two days into his post, had taken charge of the operation and successfully captured 27 criminals!

Among them was a high-profile wanted criminal with financial frauds totaling tens of millions!

What a phenomenal officer!

"Antonia, are you interested in transferring to our Chicago Police Station?" Shazam's eyes sparkled as he continued, "If you're willing, I'll personally apply for your transfer to our station. I promise you'll be a team leader the moment you arrive!"

John and Roosevelt were dumbstruck.

So envious it's painful!

Even Sam was stunned, though he quickly snapped out of it and clung to Antonia's arm like a lifeline.

"Director Shazam, are you serious?" Sam said with a wary look.

Grinding his teeth, Sam continued, "Antonia is the pride of our station! If you take him away, Director Rex is going to have my head!"

Shazam chuckled heartily. "Haha, Sam, don't be like that. Everyone knows water flows downhill, and people aim higher."

"Can the resources of your department even compare to ours? As Antonia's mentor, it wouldn't be fair to block his future prospects, right?"

Sam opened his mouth to argue but couldn't find the words.

Shazam, seeing his hesitation, grew more excited.

"Besides," Shazam pressed on, "what objections could Rex possibly have? Ultimately, it's up to Antonia to decide, isn't it?"

Sam, outranked and outmaneuvered, could only clench his fists in frustration.

"Antonia…"

Shazam turned his attention back to the young officer.

But just then, Shazam felt a strange chill in the air.

It was mid-July, so it shouldn't have been cold, yet he shivered.

Frowning, Shazam scanned the room and noticed the strange expressions of the officers around him.

"What's with those looks?" Shazam snapped, his patience thinning.

Smack!

Before anyone could answer, Shazam felt a sharp slap on the back of his head.

"Well, well, Shazam, digging into my team while I'm not around, huh? Don't forget, if it weren't for me, you'd still be single!"

---

The tension in the room eased slightly as laughter broke out among the officers.

Antonia stood frozen, his gaze bouncing between Shazam and the newcomer, Rex.

Director Rex was a figure of immense authority and respect, known for his unwavering commitment to the Chicago Police Department. He'd mentored countless officers, including Shazam, over the years.

And now, standing face-to-face with his former protégé, Rex didn't mince his words.

"Shazam, don't forget your roots," Rex said sternly. "Antonia is staying with us. If you want talent, grow your own."

Shazam, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly, muttered, "Alright, alright, no need to hit me..."

Antonia could barely suppress a grin as he saluted both directors. "Thank you, Director Rex, for your support."

The room erupted in applause.

Antonia's reputation continued to soar, not just within his own precinct but throughout the entire department. His remarkable achievements were a testament to his skill, bravery, and unwavering dedication.

For Antonia, the journey had just begun, but one thing was certain—he was destined for greatness.

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