Chapter 71
"It's over, Flash Kid!" Captain Cold simultaneously raised his Cold Gun, and a blue beam containing absolute zero accurately shot towards Barry's evasion route!
Ice and Fire pincer attack! There was no escape!
A trace of despair flashed in Barry's eyes!
Am I really going to fall here today?!
Inside S.T.A.R. Labs, Cisco and Caitlin watched the critical scene on the screen, as anxious as ants on a hot pan!
"Barry! Dodge quickly!"
"No! He's locked on! Think of a way!"
Reverse-Flash Wells also frowned. Although he wished The Flash would die, it was definitely not now! And he certainly couldn't die at the hands of these two idiots! This would disrupt his entire plan!
Just at this critical moment!
Suddenly!
A light red energy barrier, filled with mysterious Chaos Magic, appeared out of thin air in front of Barry!
Like an indestructible bulwark! It forcefully blocked the fire tornado that could melt steel and the cold ray that could freeze everything!
Boom!!!
The energy of ice and fire collided and exploded violently in front of the barrier! Emitting a deafening roar!
But the seemingly thin red barrier remained motionless! Not even a ripple appeared!
"...What?!"
Captain Cold and Heat Wave simultaneously let out exclamations of disbelief!
Their combined attack! It was actually blocked?!
Who is it?!
They looked towards the source of the energy fluctuation!
Not far away, by the side of the street, under the awning of an outdoor cafe.
Lin Tian sat there leisurely, holding a cup of coffee in his hand, with a faint smile on his face, as if everything that had just happened had nothing to do with him.
And beside him stood a red-haired girl wearing a scarlet dress, beautiful like a goddess from mythology!
It was Wanda Maximoff!
That powerful energy barrier just now was clearly her doing!
"Mr. Lin?!" Barry Allen looked at the suddenly appearing Lin Tian and Wanda, both surprised and delighted!
Although he was still full of vigilance towards Lin Tian, he had to admit that if Wanda hadn't acted just now, he would probably have been in grave danger!
"We meet again, Flash Kid." Lin Tian put down his coffee cup, stood up, and slowly walked towards the battlefield, still with that calm expression on his face, "It seems you have quite a lot of trouble."
"It's you?!" Captain Cold Snart's pupils constricted as he recognized Lin Tian's face!
He knew this man!
Although he had only seen him in some blurry surveillance footage and underground intelligence!
But this mysterious Eastern man, and the sorceress beside him who could control red energy, had recently caused quite a stir in the underground World of Central City!
It was said that several gang bosses and super-powered criminals had fallen into their hands! And their fates were all extremely tragic!
He never expected to encounter them here today!
Snart's heart instantly gave birth to the thought of retreating!
Although he was conceited, he also knew how to assess the situation! This man and that red-haired sorceress were definitely not someone he and Mick could deal with!
"Mick! Retreat!" Snart made a decisive decision, let out a low growl, turned around, and prepared to flee!
However,
"Trying to leave?" Lin Tian's voice echoed in his ear like a ghost!
Snart didn't even see how Lin Tian moved!
The next second!
His neck was gently grasped by a warm and powerful hand!
Like being clamped by iron tongs! Making him unable to move! Even breathing became difficult!
"You—" Snart's eyes were filled with fear and disbelief!
How could this man's speed be so fast?! Even faster than The Flash?!
On the other side, Heat Wave Mick Rory, who was half a beat slower, saw his boss being restrained, roared, and raised his Flamethrower, ready to spray Lin Tian!
But he didn't even have time to pull the trigger!
A black spider silk, with a purplish-gold luster! Like a venomous snake! Instantly wrapped around his arm and Flamethrower!
Immediately after!
A cold yet enchanting power, permeated his body through the spider silk!
Mick only felt his whole body go numb! Then his vision went black! He directly lost consciousness! And softly fell to the ground!
The one who acted was naturally "Spider-Queen" Gwen, who had also appeared near the battlefield at some unknown time!
She landed silently, wearing that evil and sexy purple-black battle suit, and cold light flickered in her huge white eye sockets.
"Master, the cannon fodder has been cleared." She, or rather, "they," said respectfully to Lin Tian in that hoarse and enchanting voice.
Master?!
Barry Allen was completely stunned when he heard this address!
This "Spider Woman," who also seemed powerful and dangerous, actually called Lin Tian "Master"?!
Who exactly is Lin Tian?! What kind of monsters has he gathered around him?!
Inside S.T.A.R. Labs, Cisco, Caitlin, and Wells, who witnessed this scene through surveillance, were also deeply shocked!
Especially Caitlin! She looked at the "Spider-Queen" who was submissive to Lin Tian, like a loyal female slave, and a trace of inexplicable envy and jealousy surged in her heart?!
Chapter 78: The Main Characters Are All Stunned! Healing Caitlin, Controlling Ice and Snow!
Lin Tian ignored everyone's shock.
He carried Captain Cold Snart, who was being choked like a chicken, and walked up to him, a kind smile on his face:
"Mr. Snart, right? I'm quite interested in the Cold Gun in your hand, and your friend's Flamethrower."
"How about..." A cold light flashed in Lin Tian's eyes, "Lending them to me for research?"
Snart looked at Lin Tian's devil-like smile, and the hand that was gripping his fate, and was scared out of his wits! How could he dare to say no?!
He could only nod frantically!
"Very good." Lin Tian smiled with satisfaction.
Then, he subtly tightened his fingers.
Crack!
A soft sound.
Snart's neck twisted at a strange angle.
The light in his eyes completely extinguished.
Dead?!
Barry Allen watched Lin Tian so easily snap a person's neck, and without any expression on his face! As if he had just crushed an ant!
A chill instantly shot from the soles of his feet to the top of his head!
This man is not only powerful! But also cold and ruthless! He regards human life as dirt!
"You—how could you kill him?!" Barry couldn't help but question, his voice trembling slightly with anger and fear!
"Killed him?" Lin Tian seemed to have heard something funny, casually threw Snart's corpse on the ground, turned to look at Barry, a mocking smile on his face.
"Flash Kid, aren't you too naive?"
"For scum like this, who repeatedly ignore the law and human life, should we keep them for the New Year?"
"If you don't cut the weeds by the roots, they'll grow back with the spring breeze. Do I still need to teach you this principle?"
"But..." Barry still wanted to argue, "He should face the judgment of the law! Not be executed privately by you like this!"
"Law?" Lin Tian scoffed, "Is the law useful for criminals with extraordinary powers like them? Lock them up in Iron Heights Prison? And then wait for their next escape to continue committing crimes?"
"Your 'kindness' will only bring greater disaster to this city! It will only cause more innocent people to be harmed!"
"Instead of leaving a menace, it's better to deal with it cleanly once and for all. This is the most efficient, and also the most 'merciful' way."
Lin Tian's words, like a sharp knife, fiercely pierced Barry's heart!
Making him unable to refute! Yet unable to agree!
Yes, criminals like Snart and Mick were indeed incorrigible, causing huge trouble and casualties to Central City.
But does that mean they can be deprived of their right to live?
As a hero, shouldn't he protect everyone's life? Even criminals?
Barry's beliefs were shaken violently for the first time!
He looked at this powerful, ruthless, yet seemingly having his own "crooked logic" man, feeling that his worldview had been greatly impacted!
"It seems you are still too young, Flash Kid." Lin Tianlooked at Barry's struggling and confused eyes, and shook his head, seeming a little disappointed?
He bent down and picked up the Cold Gun and Flamethrower from the ground.
These two weapons, crafted with S.T.A.R. Labs' top technology, contained extreme energies of ice and fire, which might be helpful for him to study the energy system of this World.
"Alright, the 'loot' is in hand, it's time for us to go." Lin Tiansaid to Wanda and Gwen beside him.
The two "Queens" immediately walked obediently to his side.
"Wait!" Barry subconsciously wanted to stop them from leaving.
But as soon as he moved!
An invisible, yet incredibly powerful mental pressure instantly descended upon him!
Making him feel like he was being crushed by a mountain! Unable to move! Even his thoughts became sluggish!
It was Lin Tian!
He only used a glance! And he completely suppressed himself, a Speed Force user?!
Barry's eyes were filled with horror!
How terrifying was this man's strength?!
Lin Tian no longer paid attention to Barry Allen, who was frozen in place like a statue.
He embraced Wanda and Gwen, two "Queens" of different styles, yet both equally stunning and captivating, and leisurely disappeared at the end of the street as if taking a stroll.
Leaving behind a chaotic battlefield, two cold corpses, and The Flash, whose beliefs were greatly impacted and who was deeply lost.
And in the distance, inside S.T.A.R. Labs, the Flash Teamwas also plunged into silence and fear.
Lin Tian, with a crushing battle and a soul-piercing argument, once again declared his power and unpredictability to this World.
The rift between him and The Flash also grew larger because of this.
But at the same time, it also made all members of the Flash Team more deeply aware of his terrifying nature.
And the ruthlessness and indifference hidden beneath his cynical facade.
Lin Tian, with his "Queens," like ghosts of Central City, sometimes appeared, stirring up trouble, and sometimes vanished without a trace, as if they had never existed.
And every time he appeared, it brought a huge impact and psychological pressure to the people of S.T.A.R. Labs, especially Caitlin Snow.
Caitlin witnessed firsthand the overwhelming strength of Lin Tian and his group.
Whether it was Wanda's Chaos Magic, controlling energy like a deity, or Gwen's terrifying Spider-Queen form, combining darkness and charm, or Lin Tian's own unfathomable and terrifying power, capable of easily killing Captain Cold and Heat Wave, all deeply shocked her and left her with an indescribable... longing?
She also saw Lin Tian's near-perfect control over energy.
Whether it was absorbing lightning or easily suppressing Barry's Speed Force, it showed that his understanding of the essence of energy had reached an incredible height.
This made Caitlin's inner desire to break free from the shadow of Killer Frost and control her own power burn even more fiercely, like a prairie fire!
Chapter 72
If before, she had been full of vigilance and fear towards Lin Tian, worried that he was a devil with ulterior motives.
Now, after witnessing Lin Tian's god-like power and methods, the scales in her heart had begun to tip uncontrollably!
Perhaps he really was the only one who could help her?
Perhaps he really could free her from this curse-like fate?
Even if the price was... to submit to him?
This thought made Caitlin feel ashamed, yet she couldn't resist it.
These past few days, she had been living in deep torment.
During the day, she was still the calm, professional, and kind Dr. Caitlin, diligently helping Barry and Cisco analyze cases and treat the injured.
But at night, when she was alone, the cold and violent power deep within her, and the fear of the future, would overwhelm her like a tide.
She was afraid she would lose control again, turn into that ruthless frost killer, and harm the friends she cared about most.
She was also afraid that she would forever be bound by this power, unable to feel warmth, to love and be loved like a normal person.
This dual torment of body and mind had brought her almost to the brink of collapse.
Finally, in another deep night awakened by nightmares, Caitlin made a decision.
She couldn't go on like this anymore!
She had to seize that glimmer of hope! Even if that hope came from a mysterious and dangerous man!
She tried to contact Lin Tian through a very secret contact method he had inadvertently left behind before (perhaps an encrypted email address, or a signal that could only be received at a specific frequency).
She didn't hold out much hope.
After all, how could someone like Lin Tian still remember her small request?
However, to her surprise.
Almost the second after she sent the message, she received a reply!
The reply was simple, with only a time and place—tonight at midnight, the abandoned observatory on the outskirts of Central City.
Caitlin's heart leaped!
He actually replied?! And so quickly?!
Has he been watching me?!
This thought stirred an indescribable mix of complex emotions in Caitlin's heart. There was nervousness, anticipation, and even a hint of... delight at being valued?
At midnight.
Caitlin drove alone to the abandoned observatory.
It was deserted, with only a dilapidated dome and cold instruments, appearing particularly eerie and sinister under the pale moonlight.
Caitlin took a deep breath, pushed open the car door, and stepped out.
The cold wind ruffled her long hair, making her feel a bit chilly, and she subconsciously hugged her arms.
Just then.
A familiar figure, like a ghost, appeared silently before her.
Still in that simple casual wear, still that breathtakingly handsome face, still those deep eyes that seemed to see through everything.
Lin Tian.
"It seems you've made your decision?" Lin Tian looked at the beautiful woman before him, who was slightly nervous and uneasy, and a gentle smile appeared on his face.
"I..." Caitlin looked at Lin Tian, her lips moved, and finally, she mustered her courage and nodded, "Yes, Mr. Lin. I am willing to accept your treatment."
Although her voice was still trembling, her eyes were filled with determination and longing.
"However," she took a deep breath and stated her bottom line, "I hope you guarantee that your treatment will not harm my body and consciousness. And you cannot use me or my power to do things that would harm my friends."
This was her last stand.
If Lin Tian couldn't even agree to this, then she would rather continue to suffer than put her fate into the hands of this dangerous man.
When Lin Tian heard Caitlin's words, not only was he not angry, but he nodded in appreciation.
"Very reasonable conditions," he said with a smile, "I can agree to them."
He extended his hand: "To show my sincerity, we can sign a 'contract.'"
"Contract?" Caitlin was a little confused.
Lin Tian didn't explain, he just extended his index finger, and a faint purple-gold light lit up on its tip.
Then, he gently swiped it in the air!
A golden contract, composed of pure energy and filled with profound runes, appeared out of thin air before the two of them!
The contract clearly stated the rights and obligations of both parties:
Lin Tian promised to help Caitlin stabilize and control the frost power within her, preventing it from losing control, and guaranteed not to use Caitlin's power to harm her friends.
And the price Caitlin had to pay was: absolute loyalty, and when Lin Tian needed her, to unreservedly cooperate with his "treatment" and "energy guidance."
This contract seemed fair? Even more beneficial to Caitlin?
But as Caitlin looked at the profound runes shimmering on the contract and Lin Tian's unfathomable eyes, she felt that things weren't that simple.
This so-called "energy contract" was probably not just simple binding clauses, was it? It was more like a... deeper soul binding?!
Once signed, she would probably truly be unable to escape this man's control!
Caitlin hesitated again.
Lin Tian seemed to see through her thoughts, smiled, and said, "Of course, you can also choose not to sign.
The treatment can still proceed. However, if that's the case, I might not be able to guarantee whether some small 'accidents' will occur during the treatment process?"
His tone was calm, but the implied threat within it sent shivers down Caitlin's spine!
She knew Lin Tian was absolutely not joking!
With his strength and personality, if she didn't sign this contract, he would likely use more coercive and overbearing methods during the "treatment" to achieve the same goal! He might even cause irreversible harm to her!
After weighing the pros and cons.
Caitlin knew she had no choice.
"Okay, I'll sign." She gritted her teeth, extended her trembling finger, and gently touched the golden energy contract.
Buzz!
The contract instantly transformed into a stream of light, disappearing into the foreheads of Lin Tian and Caitlinrespectively!
Caitlin only felt as if her soul had been lightly branded by something!
A very subtle yet incredibly clear sense of connection was established between her and Lin Tian!
She could vaguely feel Lin Tian's vast, ocean-like spiritual power! And the abyss-like darkness and desire deep within him!
This made her feel fear! Yet, it also gave rise to a strange sense of security and belonging?!
As if from this moment on, she truly became a part of this man?
"Very good." Lin Tian nodded with satisfaction, looking at the confusion and dependence in Caitlin's eyes caused by the soul contract, knowing that he had already succeeded for the most part.
"Then," a "benevolent" smile appeared on his face, "our first 'official treatment' shall begin now."
He did not choose to immediately proceed with "deep" dual cultivation.
After all, one must eat bite by bite and walk step by step.
To deal with a girl like Caitlin, who was inwardly sensitive and fragile, one needed to proceed gradually, letting her completely fall without realizing it.
Lin Tian extended his hand, signaling Caitlin to relax.
Then, he gently placed his finger on the inside of Caitlin's wrist again.
A surge of Harmony True Qi, purer than last time yet still gentle, slowly flowed into Caitlin's body.
"Close your eyes and feel the cold power within you." Lin Tian's voice, as if imbued with magic, guided Caitlin's mind, "Don't resist it, try to understand it, feel it."
Caitlin obediently closed her eyes and immersed her consciousness within her body.
That familiar frost power, which had always terrified her, reappeared.
But this time, under the guidance of Lin Tian's gentle True Qi, it no longer seemed as violent and hostile as before?
Instead, it was like a child who had been wronged and longed to be understood?
"It is not your enemy, Caitlin," Lin Tian's voice continued to echo in her ear, "It is a part of you. It is your inherent talent."
"Try to accept it, embrace it. Use your will to guide it."
Lin Tian's Harmony True Qi, like the most gentle of mediators, carefully built a bridge of communication between Caitlin's own will and the cold frost power.
Ice and Fire were no longer in opposition and collision.
Instead, they began to try to understand each other? To draw closer?
Caitlin felt as if she had entered a marvelous state.
She could clearly feel the flow of frost energy within her, sense its "emotions," and even perform some extremely subtle guidance!
Like condensing a tiny ice flower on her fingertip? Or lowering the temperature of the surrounding air by a few degrees?
These were things she had never dared to imagine before!
At the same time! An unprecedented sense of comfort and control also emerged spontaneously!
That deep-seated chill that had always plagued her was being neutralized and dispelled bit by bit by Lin Tian's warm True Qi!
That fear of losing control, of turning into a monster, also gradually receded with the initial control over the power!
She felt as if a heavy burden had been lifted! She was unprecedentedly light and joyful!
So this is what it feels like to control power!
So I don't have to be afraid of it!
Caitlin's heart was filled with excitement and gratitude!
Chapter 79: Caitlin's Decision, Iris's Moth-to-Flame Love
Her gaze towards Lin Tian had completely transformed from the previous vigilance and fear into complete trust and dependence!
She even looked forward to the next treatment! Eager for a deeper energy fusion with Lin Tian!
The treatment lasted for about half an hour.
When Lin Tian slowly withdrew his True Qi, Caitlin was surprised to find that the frost power within her had indeed become much more stable!
She could even easily condense a sharp ice blade on her fingertip! - And retract it at will!
More importantly! Her body temperature returned to normal!
Her complexion also became rosy! No longer sickly pale as before!
Her whole person looked radiant!
Full of health and vitality! Even more beautiful and charming than before!
"How do you feel?" Lin Tian asked with satisfaction, looking at Caitlin's changes.
"I... I feel amazing!" Caitlin was so excited she was a little incoherent, "I've never felt so good! Lin! Thank you! Thank you so much!"
She was even so excited that she wanted to go forward and hug Lin Tian!
But she ultimately held back, only looking at him unblinkingly with her blue eyes full of gratitude and adoration.
"This is just the beginning." Lin Tian still maintained his calm and composed demeanor, "As long as you are obedient in the future, I will make you stronger."
Chapter 73
"Mm! I definitely will!" Caitlin nodded vigorously, her eyes filled with unwavering determination!
She knew that she was completely inseparable from this Master.
Whether he was an Angel or a demon.
"Alright, it's getting late, you should go back." Lin Tianlooked at the sky. "Remember, the 'contract' and 'treatment' between us are a secret. Don't tell anyone, including your friends."
He still needed Caitlin as a chess piece inside S.T.A.R. Labsto provide him with some "convenience."
"I understand." Caitlin agreed without hesitation.
In her heart, Lin Tian's requests were the highest directives.
Lin Tian nodded in satisfaction, a "consider it" smile appearing on his face, then, like a ghost, he vanished from the spot again.
Leaving Caitlin alone, standing beneath the abandoned observatory, feeling the peculiar power, both cold and warm, within her body, and the special connection in her heart, both reassuring and somewhat unsettling.
A smile, both shy and full of anticipation, appeared on her face.
Her heart of ice had begun to melt.
Complete surrender was only a matter of time.
Lin Tian looked at his initially hooked prey, knowing that he had successfully taken the first step in conquering this ice queen.
Ever since Lin Tian's "heroic rescue" of her in the port warehouse district that night, Iris West's life had never been peaceful again.
That mysterious, powerful, and impossibly handsome oriental Master, like a Shadow that suddenly intruded into her World, left an indelible mark on her heart, and also aroused her most primitive and strongest curiosity and desire to investigate as a reporter!
Who exactly was he?
Where did he come from?
Why did he possess such terrifying power?
What was his purpose in approaching her?
These questions, like the claws of countless kittens, scratched at Iris, making her restless and sleepless.
Relying on years of journalistic professionalism and keen intuition, Iris immediately mobilized all her resources and connections to launch a carpet-style, in-depth investigation into the name "Lin Tian" and all relevant clues that appeared in the port warehouse district that night!
She visited her father, Joe West, at the Central City Police Department, subtly inquiring if there had been any suspicious Asian tycoons or You-Know-Who entering the country recently.
She contacted her friends in the city government and intelligence agencies, trying to find any entry and exit records, identity information, or even the slightest trace related to "Lin Tian."
She even used hacking techniques to search for this name in the network World, hoping to find some clues.
However, the result greatly disappointed and shocked her even more!
The name "Lin Tian" simply did not exist in the official records of Central City or even the entire U.S.!
No entry or exit records! No identity documents! No bank accounts! No social media accounts!
He was like a true ghost! A transparent Master who appeared out of thin air in this World!
How was this possible?!
Iris couldn't believe it!
In this era of information explosion, where almost everyone leaves traces on the internet, how could there be a Masterwho could hide himself so completely?!
As clean as a White sheet of paper?!
Unless he wasn't from this World at all!
Or behind him, there was an extremely vast and terrifying force, enough to erase all traces of his existence!
Regardless of the possibility, it elevated Iris's interest and apprehension towards Lin Tian to a new level!
She knew that this Master must be hiding a huge secret! A secret that could shake the entire Central City, or even the entire World!
As an ambitious and driven news reporter, how could Irislet go of such explosive "exclusive news"?!
She decided that no matter what, she would dig out this Master's secret!
However, Iris did not know that her supposedly secret investigation had, from the very beginning, been completely exposed to the monitoring of Lin Tian and Zero.
"Master, Miss Iris West is investigating your information through various channels." Zero's cold voice echoed in Lin Tian's mind. "Do you need information shielding or interference?"
"No need." Lin Tian's lips curved into a playful smile. "Let her investigate."
"Not only don't stop her, but also… 'help' her."
"Help?" Zero's program logic seemed somewhat confused.
"That's right," Lin Tian's eyes flashed with calculating light, "give her some… ambiguous clues. Let her think she's close to the truth, make her more curious about me, more… fascinated."
Lin Tian was well-versed in the principle of "long-term planning for a big catch."
To deal with a woman like Iris, who was smart, competitive, and full of exploratory desire, the best way was not to directly push her down, but to guide her like peeling an onion, layer by layer, letting her willingly, step by step, walk into the love trap he had meticulously woven.
"Understood, Master." Zero immediately began to execute.
So, in the following days, Iris, during her investigation, began to "accidentally" discover some "clues" about "Lin Tian."
For example, she received an extremely vague piece of information through an anonymous email, hinting that "Lin Tian" might come from a reclusive ancient oriental family, possessing some mysterious power unknown to others.
For example, when she was tracking a rumor related to super-powered individuals, she accidentally learned from an insider that "Lin Tian" seemed to be connected to a secret organization dedicated to researching other Worlds and supernatural phenomena.
And for example, when she was organizing the data from the port warehouse incident that night, she inadvertently discovered some extremely faint energy residues that could not have been produced by Earth technology? This seemed to confirm Lin Tian's identity as an "otherworldly visitor"?
These half-true, misleading "clues" not only failed to lead Iris to the truth but instead made her generate more speculation and imagination about Lin Tian's background!
Ancient oriental family? Secret organization? Otherworldly visitor?
Every label was filled with fatal attraction! Making Iris's curiosity grow wildly like weeds!
She increasingly yearned to see Lin Tian again, to personally seek answers from him!
And Lin Tian always managed to "just right" fulfill her "wishes."
He continued to use Zero's monitoring to precisely grasp Iris's whereabouts and psychological state, and then… create various "coincidental" encounters.
Perhaps when Iris was interviewing at the scene of a news event, Lin Tian would appear as an "enthusiastic citizen" or "eyewitness," using a few seemingly casual but incisive comments to demonstrate his profound insight into current affairs, making Iris look at him in a new light.
Perhaps when Iris was feeling down due to work pressure or a minor conflict with Barry, and was zoning out alone in a coffee shop, Lin Tian "just happened" to be there too, using his gentle voice and perfectly timed comfort to give her warmth and understanding, making her feel like she had found someone she could confide in.
There was even one time when Iris, while tracking a dangerous serial killer, accidentally exposed her whereabouts and fell into a critical situation!
Just when she thought she was doomed, Lin Tian appeared again like an Angel descending from heaven!
This time, he no longer hid his strength!
Instead, he showed an even more terrifying side!
He didn't even do it himself! He just gave the brutal serial killer a cold glance!
The killer was as if he had been struck by the most terrifying curse! He instantly had a mental breakdown! He screamed, clutching his head! He rolled on the ground! Finally, he foamed at the mouth! And completely turned into an idiot?!
Mental attack?!
Iris watched this bizarre and terrifying scene before her, her face turning pale with fright!
But at the same time, deep down, because she was "saved" by Lin Tian again, an indescribable sense of security and… a flutter in her heart arose?!
--- Requesting Flowers --- This Master's methods are terrifying, but… he seems to… always be protecting me?
Each "chance encounter," Lin Tian was like a skilled actor, displaying different charms according to different scenes and Iris's mood at the time.
Sometimes witty and humorous, like a sunny and cheerful boy next door.
Sometimes profound and wise, like a World-weary philosopher.
Sometimes domineering and powerful, like a king looking down on the World.
This changeable yet contradictory charm was simply deadly poison for a woman like Iris who loved challenges and exploration!
She found herself increasingly attracted to this mysterious Master!
Every gaze, every smile, every word of his could easily tug at her heartstrings!
Especially in comparison…
Barry Allen, who was kind and upright, but always a bit indecisive and hiding a huge secret…
Seemed a bit dim in comparison?
Lin Tian used his profound insight into human nature to precisely grasp Iris's psychological changes.
When she had doubts or dissatisfaction with Barry, he would "accidentally" appear, and from the perspective of "an outsider sees more clearly," say some ambiguous words that resonated with Iris, deepening her "misunderstanding" of Barry.
When she felt lost in her journalistic career or encountered a bottleneck, he would, with his foresight and wisdom beyond the times, offer some extremely forward-looking and constructive advice, enlightening her and even helping her achieve breakthroughs in her career!
... 0
This spiritual connection and guidance made Irisunconsciously develop an increasingly deep emotional dependence on Lin Tian.
Their interactions also became more frequent and more ambiguous.
They would walk together in Central Park, discussing journalistic ideals and life philosophy.
They would go to concerts together, appreciating the spiritual collision brought by art.
They would even occasionally have a "candlelight dinner"—of course, it was Lin Tian's "convenient" invitation—and engage in some exchanges under the ambiguous lighting and the catalysis of alcohol?
Although there was no substantial physical contact between the two of them…
Lin Tian deliberately maintained this "sense of distance" to keep Iris on tenterhooks.
Iris found herself increasingly unable to resist Lin Tian's charm!
She began to look forward to seeing him! Looking forward to hearing his voice! Looking forward to seeing his smile!
Even in the dead of night, she would uncontrollably think of him!
Thinking of his deep eyes, thinking of his charming smile, thinking of his unique aura that made her feel safe yet flustered!
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She knew this was dangerous!
This Master was too mysterious! Too powerful! And too good at playing with people's hearts!
Being with him was like dancing on a cliff! She could be shattered at any moment!
But she couldn't control her heart!
That appreciation of meeting her match! That warmth of being understood and cared for! That temptation full of the unknown and excitement!
Made her, like a moth to a Fire, step by step, willingly walk into the love trap that Master had woven for her!
That night, Iris was organizing her investigation materials about Lin Tian in her apartment.
Looking at the stacks of almost blank reports and those ambiguous, contradictory "clues," she felt a deep sense of powerlessness.
This Master was like a riddle, a riddle she could never solve.
She picked up a photo of herself, Barry, and her father Joe on the table.
The three in the photo were smiling so happily, so carefree.
Those were the family and friends she once cherished most.
But now…
Looking at Barry's sunny yet slightly naive smile in the photo…
For the first time, a strong sense of wavering and guilt arose in Iris's heart!
She knew she might… really be in love with that dangerous Master.
That Master named Lin Tian, who was like a Shadow.
And this love might make her pay an unimaginable price.
What should she do?
Should she pull back from the brink and return to "normal" life?
Or should she disregard everything and continue to sink into this forbidden love full of unknowns and dangers?
Iris looked at the dazzling night view of Central Cityoutside her window, falling into deep confusion and struggle.
And she didn't know that on the rooftop of a building opposite her apartment…
Lin Tian was holding a glass of red wine, a knowing smile of control on his lips, quietly "appreciating" her conflicted yet moving appearance.
Chapter 74
The fish has completely taken the bait.
Is it still far from the time to reel them in?
80 Speed Force Analysis! Caitlin, who willingly delivered herself!
While enjoying the ambiguous push-and-pull of the 'love game' with Iris, Lin Tian hadn't forgotten another important purpose for his arrival in this CW Flash Universe—researching the Speed Force.
This mysterious power, which grants speedsters superhuman speed and can even affect time and space, greatly piqued Lin Tian's interest.
He vaguely felt that if he could analyze and even control this power, it would not only allow his strength to make another leap but also potentially give him a deeper understanding of the fundamental laws of this World, and even the mysteries of the Multiverse.
This was crucial for his future path of collecting the Infinity Stones, confronting Thanos, and even pursuing a higher realm!
Thus, Lin Tian shifted a portion of his research focus to the exploration of the Speed Force.
His first research subject, naturally, was the protagonist of this World, the primary user of the Speed Force—Barry Allen.
Lin Tian commanded the artificial intelligence 'Zero' to use its pervasive network monitoring capabilities to observe Barry Allen's every move, 24/7, from all angles.
Whether it was Barry's every high-speed run, every time travel, every interaction with Speed Force energy when he was fighting crime as The Flash.
Or the Speed Force energy fluctuations he inadvertently leaked in his daily life due to emotional shifts or special stimuli.
All were precisely captured, recorded, and subjected to preliminary data analysis by 'Zero'.
At the same time, Lin Tian also deployed his powerful spiritual sense, which had reached the late Third Layer and covered an extremely vast area, to constantly 'envelop' Central City.
His spiritual sense, like a high-precision energy detector, could clearly perceive the unique energy frequency, operational trajectory, and subtle distortions of the surrounding space and time every time Barry used the Speed Force.
"Interesting," Lin Tian said, stroking his chin, his eyes glinting with thought as he looked at the massive data feedback from 'Zero' and the information perceived by his spiritual sense. "This energy doesn't seem to be stored within the user's body, but rather comes from 'eight-seven-zero' a... higher-dimensional energy source?"
"It's more like a kind of... 'permission'? Or a 'connection'? The user connects to that source in some way to 'borrow' its power?"
"And this power seems to be closely related to the user's emotions, willpower, and even... a specific 'vibration frequency'?"
With his profound understanding of energy laws and a unique perspective from the cultivation civilization, Lin Tianquickly formed a preliminary judgment about the Speed Force, one that was likely closer to its essence than most people in this World.
But relying solely on remote observation and data analysis was far from enough.
To truly understand the mystery of the Speed Force, close contact was necessary! Even... a collision!
Lin Tian decided to take the initiative.
He needed a plausible excuse to have 'intimate contact' with Barry Allen.
That excuse soon arrived.
On this day, a new metahuman villain appeared in Central City—a being capable of manipulating metal, similar to a low-tier Magneto (possibly an unlucky engineer who gained powers during the particle accelerator explosion).
Although this Metal Manipulator's strength wasn't top-tier, his abilities were extremely tricky! He could easily control cars, rebar, and even firearms in the city, causing massive chaos!
When Flash Barry Allen arrived at the scene, he found that his speed advantage was not very effective against this large-scale, indiscriminate metal storm!
He had to constantly move at high speed to dodge the metal fragments flying like bullets! He also had to divert his attention to rescue civilians trapped in metal cages! For a time, dangers abounded!
Inside S.T.A.R. Labs, everyone was in a frantic state, unable to come up with an effective countermeasure for a while.
Just then.
Lin Tian, with Wanda and Gwen, 'happened' to appear nearby.
"It seems our Flash Kid is in trouble again." Lin Tian looked at the chaotic battlefield in the distance and the somewhat disheveled Barry, a concerned smile like that of a 'caring citizen' on his face.
"Master, do we need to intervene?" Gwen (in her Spider-Queen form, but with most of her dark aura restrained) asked eagerly. She really wanted to show off her current powerful strength in front of this 'love rival'.
Wanda also looked at Lin Tian with burning eyes, awaiting his command.
"No rush." Lin Tian waved his hand, but his gaze turned to Pietro beside him. "Pietro, this time... it's your turn to go on stage."
"Me?" Pietro was startled, then immediately became excited! "Alright! Watch me!"
He had been itching for a fight for a long time! He didn't get enough of a fight with Barry last time! This was perfect!
Lin Tian nodded, mentally imparting a few 'battle essentials' to Pietro: "Remember, don't expose your full strength. The key is... to get close to him, feel the flow of that special energy on him. Try to... 'collide' a few more times."
"Understood!" Pietro understood, a mischievous grin appearing on his face.
The next second!
A silver lightning bolt instantly streaked across the sky! At a speed imperceptible to the naked eye, it rushed into the chaotic metal storm!
Barry Allen, who was currently maneuvering around the Metal Manipulator, only felt a flash of silver light before his eyes!
Immediately after!
He saw the metal fragments and car wreckage that had been furiously attacking him, as if being manipulated by an invisible force! They began to collide with each other! Or shoot towards an empty space?!
And the villain controlling the metal let out a terrified scream! He seemed to have been fiercely punched several times?! But he couldn't even see the shadow of his attacker!
Was it that silver-haired kid?!
Barry immediately recognized the silver lightning!
Why was he here?! What did he want?!
Just as Barry was filled with surprise and uncertainty, Pietro's voice rang in his ear, with a hint of playfulness:
"Hey! Red-skinned kid! Looks like you need help, huh? But your speed is still so slow!"
Before he finished speaking! Pietro's figure had already appeared in front of Barry!
Then!
He actually... punched!
Directly at Barry's face?!
"You?!" Barry was both shocked and angry! This guy! He was clearly helping to clear out the minions! Why did he suddenly attack me?!
He instinctively wanted to speed up and dodge!
But Pietro's punch seemed to have already anticipated his dodging route! The angle was extremely tricky!
And the speed was astonishingly fast!
Although Barry ultimately managed to narrowly avoid a vital spot! His cheek was still grazed by the wind of the punch! Leaving a burning mark!
"Bastard! What are you doing?!" Barry roared!
"What am I doing? Of course, I'm'sparring' with you!" Pietrogrinned mischievously and attacked again!
Although his speed might be slightly inferior to Barry's, his attacking techniques were incredibly tricky! Every punch! Every kick! Contained Lin Tian's teachings on precise control of speed and timing!
More importantly!
Every time he 'collided' with Barry! He would deliberately guide the faint 'Joyful Energy Flow' within his body, which had been modified by Lin Tian! To contact and perceive the Speed Force on Barry!
Although this contact was extremely brief! Extremely faint!
It was already enough for Lin Tian, from a distance, to perceive the energy characteristics and operational trajectory of the Speed Force more clearly and intuitively through Pietro, his 'medium'!
"So that's how it is." Lin Tian closed his eyes, his powerful Primordial Spirit power establishing a subtle connection with Pietro, carefully analyzing the Speed Forceinformation feedback. "As expected, it's an extremely special energy field closely linked to the user's spiritual will, and can even interfere with time and causality?"
Lin Tian felt his understanding of the Speed Force had deepened a layer!
On the battlefield, Barry Allen was utterly frustrated!
He had incredible speed beyond limits! Yet he was rendered helpless by Pietro's ghost-like movements and tricky attacks!
Several times he wanted to go all out! To crush the opponent with absolute speed!
But Pietro always seemed to anticipate his intentions! Avoiding him in advance! Or interfering with him with small movements! Making him unable to exert his strength!
Even more infuriating!
This guy kept taunting him while fighting!
"Too slow! Too slow! Red-skinned kid! Is this all the speed you have?"
"Oops! Almost hit you! What a pity, what a pity!"
"Hey, hey, hey! Don't just run! Fight back!"
Barry felt like he was about to explode with anger!
Inside S.T.A.R. Labs, everyone watched Barry being 'played' by that silver-haired kid, also looking helpless and awkward.
"Who is this guy anyway?! His speed technique is too abnormal, isn't it?!" Cisco couldn't help but complain.
Caitlin, however, looked at the screen with some concern. She always felt that Lin Tian's intention in having that silver-haired kid'spar' with Barry wasn't so simple.
Reverse-Flash Wells narrowed his eyes, staring intently at Pietro's every move, trying to analyze more information about Lin Tian and his mysterious power.
Just then!
Lin Tian, who had been watching from the side, seemed to feel that enough 'data' had been collected.
He lightly snapped his fingers in Pietro's direction.
Pietro, who was 'playing' with Barry, suddenly paused, then instantly accelerated, disengaging from the battlefield, and returned to Lin Tian's side.
"Boring," Pietro pouted. "This guy is too weak to fight."
Barry: "???"
Lin Tian ignored Pietro's 'complaint' and instead turned his gaze to the Metal Manipulator, who had already been beaten black and blue by Pietro and had lost the ability to resist.
He walked up to the villain, extended his hand, and placed it on his forehead.
A pure mental force instantly surged in!
'Read memory', 'Analyze ability origin', 'Erase relevant memories'.
All in one go!
A few seconds later, Lin Tian withdrew his hand.
The Metal Manipulator's eyes rolled back, and he completely fainted.
Lin Tian had already obtained useful information from his mind about the origin of his abilities, organizational information, and some details about the distribution of metahumans in this World.
He also 'kindly' helped him clear his memories of his own abilities and how to use them, by the way?
It was like getting rid of a potential nuisance.
Having done all this, Lin Tian turned around and looked at Barry Allen, who was still in a state of anger and frustration.
A 'kind' smile appeared on his face.
"Flash Kid, it seems your special training is far from enough." Lin Tian shook his head, his tone full of a'senior's' 'care' and 'guidance' for a 'junior'. "Speed alone is not enough; technique and mindset are equally important..."
"When you figure it out, you can come find me." Lin Tianpatted Barry's shoulder (Barry instinctively tried to dodge but failed). "I'd be happy to... 'guide' you a bit."
With that, Lin Tian no longer paid attention to Barry's eyes, which seemed to be spewing fire.
Taking Wanda, Gwen, Pietro, and a few interesting metal samples 'conveniently' taken from the Metal Manipulator, he calmly left the scene again.
Leaving Barry Allen alone, standing rooted to the spot, watching Lin Tian's departing back, his fists clenching, cracking!
Lin Tian!!!
This name, like a curse, was deeply imprinted in his heart!
He swore! One day! He would surpass this guy! And return the 'humiliation' he inflicted upon him, tenfold!!!
And in a shadowy corner in the distance.
Reverse-Flash Wells watched everything that had just happened, his eyes flashing with extremely complex emotions.
Lin Tian's'soul-searching' method on that Metal Manipulator at the end?!
And his attitude towards Barry, filled with 'desire for control' and 'meaning of training'?!
What exactly does this man want to do?!
He's not just trying to study the Speed Force, is he?!
Chapter 75
He seemed to harbor an indescribable ambition for this World, for The Flash, and for all metahumans!
Reverse-Flash felt as though he had been drawn into a game far grander and more perilous than he had ever imagined!
And Lin Tian, this mysterious player,
made him feel an unprecedented wariness and a desire to exploit him!
He had to accelerate his plans!
He had to find a way to return to the future as soon as possible!
Otherwise, if things continued like this,
he might also become a pawn on Lin Tian's chessboard,
a piece that could be sacrificed at will!
...Since that miraculous "first treatment" by Lin Tian, Caitlin Snow's life had undergone earth-shattering changes.
The icy power that had always plagued her body had truly become much more stable! She no longer needed to constantly be on edge, fearing that she would suddenly lose control and turn into that cold-blooded Ice Queen. She could even, within a safe range, try to use this power, experiencing the wondrous sensation of controlling ice and snow.
More importantly, her overall mental state had improved significantly. She no longer constantly frowned and worried as she used to.
A smile began to appear on her face, and her eyes became brighter and more confident.
All these changes naturally caught the attention of the other members of Flash Team.
"Caitlin, you look really good lately!" Cisco Ramon asked curiously, "Did you find some effective treatment method?"
Barry Allen also cast a concerned look. He was happy for Caitlin to be free from her troubles.
"Mm, something like that," Caitlin said, facing her friends' concern with a sincere smile, but a hint of complex emotion, difficult to detect, flickered deep in her eyes.
She hadn't told anyone about reaching a "contract" with Lin Tian and accepting his "treatment."
On one hand, Lin Tian had explicitly asked her to keep it a secret. On the other hand, deep down, she vaguely felt that this matter was too "taboo" and not suitable for her friends to know.
Especially when she thought of the "price" Lin Tian had demanded—her loyalty, her body, her soul—she felt an inexplicable flutter of panic and shyness.
But at the same time, she couldn't deny that her gratitude and trust in Lin Tian were growing day by day.
Every time she recalled Lin Tian's gentle gaze, his miraculous methods, and that unique, reassuring aura about him, her heart would involuntarily race, and her cheeks would flush.
She even began to look forward to the next "treatment."
Looking forward to feeling that sense of calm and comfort again.
Looking forward to gaining further control over her power.
And also looking forward to seeing that mysterious and powerful man again.
However, with the initial control over her own power, a new problem also began to trouble Caitlin.
She found that although she could stabilize her ice power and no longer easily lose control, the upper limit of this power seemed to be "locked."
No matter how hard she tried to practice, she couldn't make her power significantly stronger.
Moreover, she could feel that the cold essence still lurked deep within her body, like a dormant volcano, ready to erupt again at any time due to some strong stimulus!
This feeling made her very uncomfortable.
She was not satisfied with the status quo!
She longed to become stronger!
Longed to completely control this power! To truly make it a part of herself! Rather than a Sword of Damocles hanging over her head!
She even longed to possess power comparable to Lin Tian's!
Although she herself might not have realized that behind this longing lay a subconscious desire to "be worthy" of that man.
After another failed attempt to increase her power, which almost caused a backlash of the ice power within her, Caitlin finally made up her mind!
She contacted Lin Tian again.
This time, she no longer hesitated, no longer struggled.
The Birth and Submission of the Ice Queen! Iris Hates The Flash!
Instead, she used a tone almost pleading, actively requesting Lin Tian for a more advanced "treatment"! Even if it required a greater "price"!
"Lin, I know my previous request might have been too much."
Caitlin's voice on the communicator trembled slightly, filled with entreaty, "But I really don't want to continue like this! I crave power! I crave control! Please help me! Whatever you need me to do! I am willing!"
Lin Tian heard Caitlin's request, filled with such "resolve," and a knowing smile curled at his lips.
The fish had finally taken the bait completely.
And willingly, actively jumped onto the chopping block.
"As you wish, Caitlin," Lin Tian's voice was magnetic, carrying an unquestionable authority, "But you need to think clearly. This 'treatment' is extraordinary."
"It will completely change you. Not just your power, but also your body, your soul."
"You need to completely, unreservedly, open yourself to me."
"Are you sure you're ready?"
Lin Tian deliberately used this method to increase the "sense of ritual" and further dismantle Caitlin's psychological defenses.
"I... I'm ready!" Caitlin took a deep breath, shouting with all her might! Her eyes filled with determination!
To escape fate! To control power! For that man!
She was willing to bet everything!
"Very good," Lin Tian nodded with satisfaction, "Same place, midnight, wait for me."
After hanging up the call, Caitlin's heart pounded frantically, both nervous and full of anticipation!
She knew she was about to reach a turning point in her destiny!
Either rebirth, or destruction!
...Midnight, the abandoned observatory.
Moonlight, like Water, scattered upon this silent and desolate land.
Caitlin stood there alone, the evening wind blowing through her long hair, and also stirring her uneasy heart.
Lin Tian's figure, like a phantom, appeared before her right on time.
This time, he didn't say any more unnecessary words.
He just reached out and took Caitlin's cold hand.
"Come with me."
His voice was calm, yet it carried a strange magic that made Caitlin unconsciously follow his steps.
Lin Tian didn't take her inside the observatory but walked to a relatively open clearing.
Then, he formed hand seals! And chanted incantations!
Buzz—!
A vast and profound energy fluctuation instantly emanated from his body!
The surrounding space began to distort! The light became hazy!
A "domain" or "mental space," composed of pure energy, within which a star-filled sky seemed to exist, full of mysterious aura, appeared out of thin air around the two of them! Completely isolating them from the outside World!
"This... This is?!" Caitlin was completely stunned by the miraculous sight before her!
Creating an independent space out of thin air?!
This was a method only gods possessed!
How strong was Lin Tian after all?!
"This place is absolutely safe, no one will disturb us," Lin Tian turned around, looking at Caitlin's shocked little face, and said with a smile, "Now you can completely relax."
He reached out and gently stroked Caitlin's cheek, his eyes becoming incredibly deep and burning.
"Are you ready to embrace your rebirth? My Ice Queen?"
Caitlin looked at Lin Tian's charming eyes, feeling the warmth from his fingertips, and that reassuring yet heart-pounding aura about him—
Her heart completely melted.
All fear, all doubt, vanished at this moment.
She nodded, her eyes filled with trust and anticipation.
Lin Tian smiled with satisfaction.
Then, he no longer hesitated!
He directly mobilized his True Qi to surge.
Lin Tian's True Qi, vast as the sea within his body, was like a bursting flood!
Ice and Fire! Yin and Yang!
Two completely different, yet essentially mutually attractive extreme forces!
Began an unprecedented fierce collision—
Unimaginable pain! Impacting Caitlin's nerves!
Making her feel as if she was completely torn apart! And then pieced back together!
Her consciousness repeatedly floated between the cold abyss and the scorching paradise!
She could clearly feel it!
The ice power within her body was undergoing a qualitative change!
No longer the uncontrollable, violent power it once was!
But becoming more refined! More condensed! More full of spirituality!
As if it had become an extension of her arm! She could control it at will!
She even felt as if she could touch a hint of the mystery of time?! Could instantly solidify the surrounding air?!
Power! Unprecedented power!
Surged into her body like a tide! Filling her soul!
But this increase in power did not bring freedom!
Instead, it brought her dependence and infatuation with Lin Tian to a peak!
She felt that her realm and strength had reached an indescribable level.
The ice power within her body had been completely reborn!
Her originally brown long hair had now turned a pure silvery-White, like ice and snow!
Her skin had also become more crystal clear, as if carved from the most perfect ice crystals!
The aura emanating from her was no longer the gloomy coldness from before, but a noble, elegant, yet subtly dangerous majesty, like an Ice Queen!
She was no longer Caitlin Snow.
She was Lin Tian's exclusive—Ice Queen!
"How do you feel? My Queen?" Lin Tian looked down at the completely transformed beauty in his arms, his eyes filled with satisfaction.
This time, not only did Caitlin's strength skyrocket, completely gaining control over the authority of ice,
But more importantly, her body and mind had completely, thoroughly, belonged to him!
The look in her eyes towards him was filled with undisguised adoration, worship, and absolute loyalty!
"Ma... Master," Caitlin reached out her arm, tightly wrapping it around Lin Tian's neck, and whispered in his ear with a voice full of allure and submission, "I feel better than ever."
"Everything I have is yours."
"Please use it as you wish."
Lin Tian looked at the Ice Queen who had willingly offered him everything, and a wicked, charming smile curled at his lips.