"As for being a wanted criminal..."
She tilted her head.
"To tell you the truth, as far as the Ministry of Magic is concerned, I'm already pretty much public enemy number one. You think I'd care about adding you to the list?"
"As it happens, the Ministry of Magic's recent antics have really pissed me off, and I haven't had a chance to vent." Hermione's smile turned cold. "Today, I'll start with you lot-the Muggles' very own 'Ministry of Magic'!"
Thaddeus Ross's expression changed sharply.
"What are you planning to do?!"
Before she could answer, his right hand had already reached beneath the edge of the table and pressed a button.
A shrill alarm blared throughout the floor.
Dozens of fully armed special forces soldiers rushed out through concealed doors on either side of the conference room.
Their gear was completely different from that of ordinary soldiers, and their weapons had a distinctly high-tech look. Two sonic cannons were pushed to the front, one on either side, their barrels aimed squarely at Hermione.
Dozens of red dots settled on the Avengers.
The politicians had initially felt some trepidation at the Witch's notorious reputation, but their backs straightened again as the fully armed troops entered.
"That's more like it," a balding politician muttered. "We should have done this ages ago."
The man beside him nodded in agreement.
Thaddeus Ross clasped his hands behind his back and looked down at Hermione.
He had personally selected these soldiers and approved their equipment. The sonic cannons' output had been calibrated using the Hulk's data from years ago, and the tranquilizer rounds were dosed to the standard required to bring the Hulk down.
This entire setup had originally been prepared as a contingency against the Avengers.
"Miss Granger."
Believing he had the situation under control,