Chapter 167: Hulk Potential Mate

A meme on the internet talks about "Gambia," a so-called cosmic powerhouse that claims it could eliminate Russia in seven days and level China in ten. It's notorious for wild boasts like shooting down the U.S. embassy with machine guns—a global "shit-stirrer." But compared to Gambia's bravado, Africa has a real superpower.

"Wakanda," Thor explained, "appears to be one of the least developed countries in the world. For centuries, it's stayed isolated, known only as a poor agricultural nation. But in reality, Wakanda is the most technologically advanced country on Earth, with a deep faith in Bast, the Panther God."

He continued, "Wakanda's ruler is the king, known as the Black Panther. Unlike many African nations, Wakanda's people are more cultured and less barbaric. If Wakanda wasn't so isolated, its people would be fear by everyone in the world."

Thor's words sounded like a legend, almost too mysterious to believe.

"So Ultron's Vibranium came from Wakanda?" Tony asked skeptically.

"Technically, no. It was smuggled," Thor clarified. "Wakanda strictly controls its Vibranium supply and only trades when necessary. They're committed to isolation, which keeps them hidden."

Thor smiled mysteriously. "Wakanda's Princess Shuri is a genius scientist. She's designed incredible tech, including the latest Black Panther suit."

With a wave of his hand, an image of Shuri—a young, vibrant Black woman—appeared on the screen.

To everyone's surprise, Banner was immediately captivated.

Thor hid a smirk. Maybe connecting Banner with Shuri could bring Wakanda into the Avengers' fold. And it wasn't exactly a "sacrifice"; Banner seemed genuinely drawn to Shuri. He'd always had a thing for strong women—from a certain Brazilian girl to the fierce Valkyrie on Sakaar.

Late that night, in an African jungle, a convoy came under attack from mercenaries. Rumor had it that the convoy was carrying an extremely rare metal.

Wakanda, disguised as a simple third-world country, looked defenseless. The convoy's weapons were basic AK-series rifles, no match for the mercenaries' firepower, and the attack quickly turned in the mercenaries' favor.

"Damn it!" Shuri, in the middle of the convoy, muttered, considering whether to pull out her energy hand cannon. But if she used it, she risked exposing Wakanda's secret to the world.

Suddenly, a fierce roar sounded, and a massive figure charged forward through the bullets. Hulk appeared, grabbing a vehicle with one hand and smashing it into the mercenaries, scattering them in panic.

The mercenaries, despite their hardened reputation, fled in terror before even reaching Hulk.

"Hulk smash!" he shouted, raising a military Humvee high above his head and slamming it down. The ground trembled as cracks radiated outward, knocking down more mercenaries. The few that remained were swiftly eliminated by Hulk, who took them out one by one.

Bruce Banner might be compassionate, but not when it came to mercenaries—and especially not when Hulk was in control.

"Hulk! It's Hulk!" shouted the Wakandans, thrilled.

Unlike Westerners, who considered themselves more reserved, Wakandans admired strength and glory. Among the Avengers, Hulk was by far the most popular hero in Wakanda, even more so than Thor.

In Wakanda, power was respected. Despite their advanced technology, Wakandans still honored strength in hand-to-hand combat; even the king had to win his title through physical challenges.

Princess Shuri ran up, her eyes wide with excitement. "Oh my god, it's Hulk! I finally get to see Hulk!"

Hulk flinched, then immediately shifted back into Banner.

Realizing the difference between Hulk and Banner, Shuri's eyes sparkled with interest. Hulk could outfight her brother, T'Challa, and in his calmer form, Banner was a brilliant scientist with knowledge that rivaled her own.

Strength and intelligence, all in one package? The possibilities were…exciting.

Banner, a bit overwhelmed by Shuri's enthusiasm, looked at her with a new appreciation. She was even more stunning in person than in the photos—bright, cute, and with a kind heart, so different from the supermodels he'd seen at Tony's parties.

At that moment, Banner felt as though spring had finally arrived in his life.

The classic "hero saves the damsel" scenario quickly ignited a spark between Banner and Shuri. Their bond grew fast, warming Banner's heart in a way he hadn't felt in a long time.

==============================================

Support me at p@treon.com/goldengaruda and check out more chapter of this or more early access chapter of my other chapter.

==============================================