《HammerTime (OC/SI into Justin Hammer)》


 Chapter 1: I Am Hammer!

    £ª£ª£ª


    Nothing can perfectly encapsulate the word confusion, as completely - as waking up as not yourself.


    He''d woken up slowly, feeling comfortable as all hell, which should have been his first clue, really. Because his bare bones shit bed hadn''t ever been comfortable, not for as long as he''d lived in the rundown New York apartment he worked 80 hours a week to barely afford. Also there''s always been this lingering smell¡­ Like there was a dead body in the walls, and that odor now, for the first time did not meet him when he awoke.


    He opened his eyes, blearily looking around, hands feeling impossibly fine sheets underneath him, is that¡­ Silk? He thought, incredulously. Also, his blurry vision was not improving much even as he became more aware, to his confusion. He managed to locate a pair of glasses on a nearby nightstand and slid them on his face with shaking hands, his heart beating painfully fast in his chest. Because he never used to need glasses. He''d never had them before.


    What was going on!?


    He was in an opulent suite, the bed alone probably the size of his old bedroom. The four poster bed looked like something out of Arabian nights, translucent sheets hanging down, covering the bed from all angles. As he peeked out of the curtains of sheets, he saw the rest of the bright airy room he was in. It was filled with expensive looking everything. From antique looking dressers with inlaid gold motifs, a painting on the wall he was almost positive was a fucking Picasso or something, and a full size mirror that he was pretty sure was actually surrounded by a border of diamonds! One wall was simply floor to ceiling windows, showcasing an expansive and beautiful view of some manorground with the ocean lapping at it in the distance. There was a desk set up that he could swear looked exactly like the one the god damn president had in the oval office as well, what. The. Hell.


    Where the fuck had he ended up? Who kidnaps someone and surrounds him with wealth? He wasn''t exactly some little princess some dictator might kidnap for obvious reasons,( No one would kidnap him as a sex slave of all things, even he didn''t want to have sex with himself) he was a down and dirty worker, with a rugged half broken body to match. He was the lowest of the low - the kind of worker everyone spat on while working them to the bones for nothing.


    The ones that died alone in their apartments or on the street without anyone noticing. He''d resigned to that fate already, what else was there to do with life. He had no path forward.


    And now he was here¡­. Wherever here was. Somehow. Also, he touched his glasses briefly, hands still trembling. Why? Why did he need glasses, now? What was happening?


    Sliding out of the crazy large and comfortable bed proved easy, how could anyone sleep in these silky smooth sheets? He''d almost slipped straight onto the floor. His heart rate spiked as he found himself on his feet - completely naked and realized, while looking down, that he didn''t recognize his own junk, or the rest of himself for that matter, and was he¡­ Shorter? What¡­ W-What is happening? He thought, almost in a daze, slowly moving towards the full sized standing mirror. His head was suddenly pounding, like a piercing pain behind his eyes was drilling its way into his skull. He looked in the mirror. And promptly fell down onto the floor, thankfully protected by a lush maroon carpet that was softer than anything he''d ever owned, he felt like he was having a seizure of sorts, not that he''d ever experienced one before.


    But surely this incredible pain weakening his limbs and knocking him down was a seizure, because surely his mind was going. It must be. Yet¡­


    The face looking back at him, the one he''d seen in the mirror, belonged to Justin Hammer. Or at least his actor - as he''d known him as in the Iron Man movie franchise. A movie he''d seen a dozen years ago. Acknowledging what was in front of him had immediately knocked him down, a mixture of shock and pain, the pressure he''d felt in his head - the rush of memories from Justin Hammer being assimilated.


    He''d worked backbreaking shit jobs his entire life, constantly screwed over by someone, whether a corrupt government, a shifty co-worker, insane ex girlfriend or an asshole boss - he''d always gotten the short end of the stick. As he assimilated the memories, he grew more and more intrigued with the possibilities of a new life, however the hell that had happened didn''t matter. The memories blended with his own until he wasn''t sure what he was, but he wasn''t fully him anymore.


    Best he could tell, he was now Justin Hammer, 2.0.


    Justin Hammer had pretty much been a joke - despite owning and running the largest weapons manufacturing company after Stark industries. He''d just been a punch line - the guy that just didn''t measure up to Tony Stark. Although he was in every way, much wealthier and vastly more successful than a shitty minimum wage worker who could never get ahead (due to some unjustified jail time in his misspent youth) he was the same in one way - he burned for the chance to prove everyone wrong, to not be second best, the afterthought. To have the adulation he so rightfully deserved. That others were denying him for no good reason.


    Yes¡­ He thought, before passing out from the pain, This could work out just fine¡­


    £ª£ª£ª


    When he woke up, his disorientation was over, he''d accepted his new lot in life. His memories had fully settled in. He was now, for all intents and purposes, Justin Hammer.


    It shouldn''t be that easy. It really shouldn''t. But his old life had been shit. Now he was suddenly rich. Of course he fucking accepted it immediately.


    His old life had basically been a lonely hell working itself slowly to death, it wouldn''t be missed. He was now completely and utterly Justin Hammer and happy about it.


    And luckily for him, he was Justin Hammer, in 2006. Two years before Iron man. He had a head start to begin taking advantage of his knowledge. Original him, was in no way a scientist or engineer, and as much as it hurt him to admit it even to himself, Justin was not anywhere within the stratosphere of someone like Tony Stark. He had his own kind of genius, able to take anything that already existed and engineer it to perfection for the world markets. Able to anticipate or through any means necessary, create the market for his style of weaponry. The wheel and deal, backroom business and cutthroat actions of the world of billionaire, that was his jam.


    He wasn''t Tony Stark.


    But¡­ He didn''t need to be. There was knowledge in his head now, knowledge that could alter the world. And more importantly - him and his company. Tony Stark would stop weapons development. That was practically set in stone, surely. Justin certainly wouldn''t do anything to stop that! And what opportunity that alone would bring. Not only cheap SI shares for him to buy up so that he could be a constant thorn in Stark''s ass, but in the thousands of employees of SI that he could poach indiscriminately during the period after Stark''s press conference, when the dolt would do absolutely nothing to calm the worries of his company and its employees.


    He''d offer them triple the salary if he had to, the cost would be worth it to get all those employees, the best of the best. Working and creating for him. Sure they couldn''t use proprietary Stark technologies, but they''d be experienced weapons developers, they''d find new ways to make superior weapons that didn''t utilize proprietary Stark Tech.


    And Justin had plans for ways to get some of his own tech that could catapult Hammer industries from the everyman''s weapons company - to the reputation now held by Stark Industries.


    Hammer industries, despite being considered a joke by the likes of Tony Stark. Was a global Aerospace, Defense, Security and advanced technology company. Justin had started the company himself, and still owned it in its totality, having used whatever investors and loans he could, combined with the family fortune from the luck of being born rich, without giving away shares of his baby. He had factories in over 45 countries and contracts with the militaries of over a hundred countries. Stark was practically exclusively selling to the USA and NATO, with the odd American ally thrown in. Justin wasn''t nearly as discriminating and there was plenty of profit in that.


    Sure he didn''t sell to enemies of America¡­ Not obviously anyway. But that still left a hundred countries to ply his trade in. And if some ghost production runs ended up in the middle east, well they must have been stolen from any of the smaller countries Hammer sells to, obviously.


    So, okay, he wasn''t a paragon of virtue. But he made money. A lot of money actually. He could understand why he''d be considered a rival to Tony Stark, even if that damnable movie had portrayed his future very badly. He''d been a joke. That would not happen.


    If anyone should be called the merchant of death, it was obviously Justin Hammer. Tony just had better PR due to his old man having been moderately important.


    And because fucking anything that walked made the news more often then someone pulling off a new weapons deal.


    He switched his thoughts off the tracks, thinking about Tony too much wouldn''t bring anything positive. He continued thinking about his assets. Hammer industries also provided much of the law enforcement package to the majority of the world''s countries, they even had several large contracts in North America for just that - including the FBI, ATF and the CIA. Stark was more for the big shiny inventions most of the time, leaving Justin the smaller but still very profitable law enforcement market.


    Missiles might cost a lot more per unit. But the military only bought so many of them - while law enforcement was constantly buying and upgrading their gear. Especially in America. And if criminal gangs found their way into shipments of Hammer weaponry and armor piercing bullets - forcing law enforcement to buy more expensive and specialized gear from Hammer industries, well¡­ That was just business. What separated Justin from all the competition that he''d eventually swallowed up.


    Of course there was nothing Justin could really do about shipments being robbed by criminals. That was a police issue. As the major supplier to law enforcement he was of course never a suspect. Justin couldn''t quite stop a smirk as he paced around his suite pondering his company and the way forward. Unlike Obadiah Stane, Justin didn''t leave evidence around to be found. None pointing to him, anyway. If someone bothered to investigate, he''d lose a few plant managers. No real loss.


    He couldn''t help but be smug thinking of how the CEO of SI was a traitor. Which brought his thoughts back to his company, and the comparison to SI.


    So¡­ while his company did not quite reach the size of SI due to it being more diversified, with several products outside weapons, Hammer industries was still in the top 20, Justin''s own fortune also placing him amongst the top 20 richest men in the world. If he could handle the next few years right¡­. He''d claw himself to number 1 in both categories. He''d be higher up already, if the likes of Roxxon energy and the Rand corporation were not around, even Oscorp was around, which worried Justin slightly. Not that they''d be a threat necessarily. If Norman Osborn would be anything like normally portrayed, the company was likely doomed anyway. No, the worry lay in if this amalgamation of companies denoted a new timeline or not. He needed Iron man to happen the same as before - it was vital. If the Green Goblin and the X-Men and everything else was a thing¡­ Who knows what would happen?


    Magento might crush Tony like a grape the first time he''d fly out in his suit. And it just wouldn''t be satisfying to Justin if Tony didn''t get to live and see Justin surpass him across the world. Tony could have his suit. Justin would have the world, instead.


    He''d need to research world history and notable people. Unfortunately he''d never paid any real attention to anything outside the business world, aside from top generals for the purpose of gaining more contracts, of course. He''d been¡­. A little more self absorbed then he was comfortable with now. An ego wasn''t bad, but closing yourself into a bubble was - he''d lost sight of the bigger picture. Searching his new, yet old at the same time, memories, proved that his ultimate downfall had been his success. Justin Hammer did not really do anything that did not involve his business in some way. Or should he say now, he, didn''t do anything outside the pursuit of business. He could see what would happen, Stark industries kept increasing their profits even while dropping out of the weapons business, Tony celebrated everywhere, Justin would probably have started becoming dangerously risky, sloppy. Anything to get one over Stark. Leading to that whole Vanko fiasco.


    He wouldn''t mess that up this time¡­


    And he needed to be more involved in the world. Not to the same extent as man whore Tony Stark. But he needed to be more than Justin Hammer, a random corporate CEO to the public. He''d been too reclusive and frankly, too impulsive in many ways.


    One consequence of that, which he needed to fix, ASAP. Was his habit of going through staff. From his personal staff to his assistant to his security detail. They all either got fired, or resigned, within months of working with him. He couldn''t have that continuing. With all that needed to get done, and all the threats he might face for improving his lot in life¡­ He needed a trustworthy assistant ala Pepper Potts. He needed a well trained trustworthy security detail.


    Preferably enhanced.


    Justin grabbed his personal laptop, not bothering to dress as he sat down at his desk, he''d need to set things in motion. Two years might seem like alot. But if he was going to be able to take proper advantage, there would be alot of prep work for it. Thank god he didn''t answer to a board of directors - because the empty factories and warehouses he''d need to build and/or purchase, the laboratories and robotics departments he''d need to create and keep basically idle, for now. It would cost a bundle to acquire, but it would be worth it. If he could step directly in SI''s shoes the minute Stark ends the weapons deliveries. He''d be a shoe in for taking their place. Not allowing any other competitor the time or resources to get in ahead of him.


    First however. He needed to research this world. And he needed to find staff that could do the job he needed, and were loyal. If not to him yet, entirely loyal to the almighty dollar would do, for now.


    Justin grinned, as he started typing, the world lay at his fingertips now. He did not intend to rest on his laurels.


    Tony Stark would one day have to acknowledge that Justin Hammer did more to save the world than he ever could.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Being extremely wealthy had its benefits. Within a few days Justin had already secured interviews with several notable people that could ensure not only his safety, but could also assist him in running his business and his eventual business empire.


    Currently, he''d flown to New York, making his New York office his home base for now, especially for meeting his prospective employees. It was a bit more secure than his lavish California villa or his manor in Britain. It had a dedicated private security firm guarding the premises and a safe room capable of handling anything below a nuke.


    He''d found, during his research, that while not too much differed from the MCU, as far as he could tell. Mutants being a thing was known, although neither the X-Men or Magneto had popped their respective heads out yet, not officially. Mutants were known more broadly amongst the upper echelons of government and intelligence agencies than the wider world at the moment. The government and SHIELD keeping a lid on things. His contacts couldn''t tell him the specifics, but the X-Men and the Brotherhood had indeed clashed at least once - and were known to the government under those monikers. Justin had a feeling it would all kick off for real, once Iron man stepped into the open - or maybe that was more of a hope, he didn''t want that derailed, so much hinged on it.


    His current secretary, Victoria, escorted his first appointment in, and Justin rose from behind his desk with a charming smile on his face. "Lady Domino, a pleasure."


    Domino, a tall, confident black woman with a confident smirk on her face and a white brand around her left eye, slid into a chair, crossing her legs, showcasing knee high leather boots, "Call me Domino, we both know I''m not a lady."


    "That will be all for now, Victoria." Justin said with a smile, shooing off his secretary, coming around the desk with some swagger and taking a position leaning back slightly onto the front of the desk, almost but not quite sitting down, looking over his future acquisition.


    "Like what you see?" Domino quipped with a challenging look on her face and a raised eyebrow, crossing her arms under her chest.


    Justin smirked appreciatively, "I wouldn''t have approached you if I didn''t like everything about you, Domino, sweetheart!" He said, making a grandiose sweeping gesture.


    "I guess I''m just a lucky girl like that." She chuckled, her eyes still challenging, searching.


    Justin abruptly left his position at the desk, aware of the slight tensing in the muscles of Domino''s arms at his sudden movement, even mercenaries were cautious when dealing with billionaires it seemed. He smirked to himself as he picked up a crystal carafe from a side table stocked with all kinds of alcohol, "A drink?" He asked casually. Pouring himself one, either way.


    "Well¡­ What girl can say no to free booze." She drawled, after a moment''s pause.


    "It''s 300 years old, actually. Amazing what money can buy, isn''t it? it tastes almost exactly the same as today''s drinks to me." Justin chuckled as he poured her one, "Ice?" He asked, interrupting himself, on seeing Domino''s uncaring shrug, he added two ice cubes, before bringing it over, "Just tastes more¡­ Expensive." He finished with a small toast, as Domino grabbed her drink.


    As Domino took a sip, Justin laughed softly, "Fascinating really," He mused out loud, at her questioning look, "It must be amazing going through life, knowing you won''t be poisoned, because luck, or should I say probability itself, would make me drop the glass, or any other number of interruptions due to bad luck on my part, or good on yours." He saluted her with the glass of alcohol. "An amazing ability."


    Domino held the glass tightly in her hands, "Most would say it''s an underwhelming ability. Most have." She said, tilting her head curiously, studying Justin.


    "Most aren''t as clever as I, or as you, my dear." Justin said with a wink, the charming smile not dropping one iota. "Luck is a super power worth its weight in gold."


    "If you say so." Domino said with a shrug, looking amused, taking another sip of her drink.


    "Would you like it?" Justin said abruptly, toying with his glass. "Your weight in gold?" His eyes suddenly pierced hers, weighing her reaction.


    Domino froze for a moment, gauging how serious he was, before a small smile bloomed into being on her face, "Does it have to be my weight in gold?" She asked playfully, "I mean, I''ve been hitting the salad bars lately, I''m in pretty fine form, not ready for a weigh in."


    She gestured to her body, which in the black and form fitting clothes she was wearing - definitely could not be called heavy in any manner.


    Justin grinned sharply, "Five year contract. You work for me, no one else. And you''ll receive double your weight in gold at the end of every year." He winked, "Plus a signing bonus, you''ll walk out of here, today, with your weight in gold if you sign on."


    "Guess I better start bulking up." Domino mused, swirling the alcohol in her glass. "Never thought I''d be a corporate girl."


    "Must be your lucky day." Justin joked, a pleased smile on his face, making the mutant laugh.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Unfortunately most of the rest of the day was not as productive, several of the people he was interviewing for positions at Hammer industries were just too obviously unfit for the job, or plants. Having just hired Domino as one of his bodyguards, Justin had her stand behind him for the interviews, her powers over probabilities, what most simply simplified to ''luck'' helped her suss out the most suspicious applicants immediately. As Domino was now tied to him, for large amounts of money she definitely wanted, her ''good luck'' could be put to use. As someone guarding him from threats, and subconsciously and consciously looking out for herself, by looking out for him. She just purely accidentally - managed to fluster one man to reveal he was here under false pretenses, expose another as a SHIELD agent by the lucky coincidence of having run into her in her previous work, and outright proved the others bad intentions just by the nasty amount of bad luck they had in front of us.


    Domino had protected clients before in her job as a mercenary, and none of them had gotten as much as a paper cut. This extra stuff was just an added bonus. Useful, very useful, but not even why he hired her.


    Her powers were absolute bullshit. And also under his employ, now. He''d have to be careful not to grow overconfident. They worked for her. So as long as he kept her close and aligned to his vision, she''d be a boon personally and professionally. If he tried to use her to manipulate the stock market, for example, it would likely not work, or so he theorized. Too impersonal and abstract to her immediate wants and needs. Something that worked for an immediate area was the ticket, it would have to be tested, but he doubted it worked nationally and globally. For now, it would do either way, as one of his bodyguards she''d be able to do enough.


    As long as her luck kept him alive, she was worth any amount of money. Or anything else she wanted for that matter.


    "Last appointment for the day¡­" Justin mused out loud, leaning back in his leather chair. It seemed he''d have to go for something more unconventional in finding a good assistant. All the applicants today had been garbage or literally planning to betray him immediately upon being hired.


    Domino, who was sitting on another chair behind him to his right, and busy cleaning her multitude of weapons, sighed. "Another little patsy, boss?" She complained lightly.


    Justin preened slightly, being called boss by a literal superhero or antihero or whatever she was, did massage his ego massively. From the shake of her head and little amused smirk, she knew it too.


    "No, the next one actually¡­ Could perhaps be your partner. If things work out." Two bodyguards were better than one, after all. Even with two, they couldn''t be around 24/7, but he''d count on regular security while he was asleep and the like, Domino staying in a room near him should be enough in theory to assist him. Plus he did intend to get an entire security detail as well to protect him, but his two bodyguards were for the possibility someone got past that detail. Domino wasn''t only hired for her power of probability, she was an actual mercenary/assassin of great skill. He''d actually have to burn some favors in the state department after these interviews to ensure she wouldn''t be arrested for showing up in public with him. Her protection work wasn''t an issue. The people she''d assassinated were.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    Luckily he had no contracts with Sokovia, considering her killing several of its opposition leaders and protesters had kick-started unrest there.


    "If I''m lucky, they''re a total hottie." Domino said cheekily, giving one of her guns an air kiss, watching the door intently.


    Justin swiveled on his chair, facing her, "You''re already working for a total hottie, darling!?" He protested.


    She made a face, shaking her head, lifting her hand in a so-so gesture, "Eh, seven out of ten, boss."


    Justin turned back to the door, what a hit to the ego. He bet Tony Stark never got told he was a seven. He was honestly offended, he cracked his neck, letting it drop, he wouldn''t be Tony Stark. He wouldn''t let his ego decide everything, although petulantly he labeled her a six out of ten in his mind. Just breathe¡­


    The door opened, and in came the only other appointment he arranged for a possible bodyguard. He was willing to pay good money for it, so he didn''t bother scheduling a multitude of interviews. He intended to have his first two choices. Well¡­. His first two choices that were available. There were many others he''d love to have protecting his bacon.


    He just didn''t think the likes of Magneto did henchmen work.


    "~Lucky~" Domino sing-songed as Eileen Harsaw sashayed in. And the woman fit the description of a hottie, for sure. It was like a playboy centerfold had just walked in, long blonde hair, curvy body and legs that went for miles. It was hard to believe this woman was a mercenary.


    Justin turned on the charm again, smiling widely as the blonde bombshell wearing a business casual look, stopped in front of his desk and appraised Domino with a wary look, "Welcome Eileen, or do you prefer¡­ Phantazia?"


    "Eileen will do." She said shortly, cocking her head, eyes narrowed, "I know you rich boys are ridiculous, but are you trying to hire yourself a harem?" She asked, somewhat mockingly. Feeling him out, no doubt.


    "He wishes." Domino snorted, one arm resting over her knee, that she''d pulled up on the chair, the other playing with a disassembled gun. Still her eyes never left Eileen''s.


    Justin''s face twitched slightly, "I hire the best." He said pointedly, "The fact that the best happen to be women¡­" He held his hands out in a what can you do gesture. That said, it''s not exactly a downfall that they are both very attractive women. Good for my reputation if nothing else.


    "I came to this interview out of curiosity more than anything else." Eileen said dismissively, already half turning away. Making it clear she wasn''t impressed.


    "Are you thinking long term or short term here?" Justin asked, with some bite to his voice. Nothing made him angrier than being dismissed. He was still one of the richest men in the world, if nothing else, yet. He could definitely disappear people. Even mutants.


    "You have nothing I want." Eileen stated bluntly. Domino gave a low whistle, holding her hands in the air playfully when Eileen turned her way with narrowed blue eyes.


    "I wouldn''t be so sure of that." Justin said, calming himself down, crossing his hands in front of him on the desk. "Money of course, you can attain anywhere." He said casually, eyes intent on the blonde woman''s. "Although most wouldn''t offer as much as me, for such a thing as bodyguard work."


    "As you said, money I can get anywhere." Eileen said with furrowed brows, "What are you getting at, rich boy?"


    Justin barely suppressed another annoyed twitch. His smile turned somewhat darker, "You''re a mutant." He said bluntly. "Domino here, will through my connections, be completely free of any previous entanglements with the law..." He shrugged lightly, "Just as an example of my reach."


    Domino''s head tilted slightly as she heard that. Justin hadn''t actually told her that, yet. But it was the first point of his argument now.


    "The ''law'' doesn''t even know I exist." Eileen snorted, "You don''t have anything to tempt me with." She turned to leave. Her curiosity apparently sated.


    "You''re a mutant." Justin repeated slowly. Shaking his head, making it clear he thought she was a bit slow on the uptake.


    Eileen stopped, a growl at the back of her throat. "So you keep saying¡­" she bit out, testily.


    "How long do you have? A year? Five? I give it a decade at most." Justin said, leaving back casually. His charming smile back on his face. Domino watched him carefully, with interest.


    Eileen turned back around, glaring at him, "Get to the point." Her tense posture indicated she wasn''t as clueless about what he was saying as she pretended.


    "Mutants will be considered a threat!" Justin said with a dark smile, tilting his head just enough to let light flash across his glasses, like a boss, "Now or in the near future, it will happen. You know it. I know it."


    "I know a guy that will have something to say about that." She said, some amusement leaking through her cold facade.


    "Magneto?" Justin asked, carefully. Smirking at the shock on the woman''s face. "I see I was right, and how exactly do you expect the government to react against such a threat as he?"


    "He will persevere." She snapped shortly.


    "Will he? Against all of the government, the army, the alphabet soup agencies?" Justin mocked, "Even if he beats them all, he''ll just confirm to the world what''s already coming. That the average citizen will be afraid of you." Justin met her eyes, "The day is coming soon, when you''ll all have to be registered, caged, studied." He flashed a smile, "You can''t win against the whole world."


    Her eyes flashed, "Never!" She shouted, "He would not allow it!" Subconsciously she was taking a step forward, Domino immediately raising her now once again assembled guns, tsking loudly. Eileen stopping in place, aggravated.


    "Now, imagine if one worked under someone the US government is working closely with? Someone they need?" Justin cajoled gently, "Would the government really risk the entire industrial defense complex machine for two mutants?" He met Domino''s eyes, and then slowly moved his head to meet Eileen''s¡­ No ¡­ Phantazia''s eyes. "Freedom. I offer you freedom from the war that is coming. From the persecution. My umbrella protecting you, sheltering you, the riches of the world at your fingertips."


    "You can''t guarantee that." The blonde woman snapped, but she looked slightly shaken, her eyes kept twisting to Domino, as if gauging her reaction, her beliefs.


    "In two years time, I will be the only name that matters in US weapon manufacturing, and that''s just the beginning." Justin exclaimed confidently. He chuckled, shaking his head, "Oh, sweetheart," He said a bit condescendingly, "At that point I could pardon Magneto himself."


    Phantazia hesitated, licking her lips. Before she slowly walked forward to sink into one of the chairs in front of the desk. She hesitated again, "I''m listening." She finally said.


    Justin smirked, he had her. Now, she might be a closet Magneto supporter, but honestly that didn''t matter as long as she stayed loyal for the next five years. He only needed five years to turn the world on its head.


    She''d be incredibly useful. Her abilities with electromagnetic and bioelectric fields were not only able to immediately disrupt and make inoperable - the weapons of the common human. Guns. Tanks. Helicopters - making an assault on him almost impossible. She could also affect super powers. As in turn them off when near her, or make them behave erratically, if too powerful to shut off completely. She could control bioelectric energy fields and the nervous system to boot, inflicting pain, paralysis and loss of coordination. So anyone attacking him would have an incredible hurdle to get over to get past her and Domino''s probability power twisting luck their way. She wasn''t as unknown to law enforcement as she thought, her power set he''d gotten from their files, personally he had no memory of her from what little he knew of the X-Men.


    Obviously the more enemies and the more enhanced she faced, the less useful her powers would be, she could only do so much after all, so she wasn''t all powerful, but she would be very useful.


    His personal safety was practically guaranteed now.


    And if she wasn''t 100 percent loyal. Well¡­ Mutants didn''t lead particularly great lives in most cases, even the mercenary kind. Five years of getting anything she wanted, money, power, fame, men, women, food, technology, weapons, jewelry and clothing. Anything.


    She''d have to be very determined to hate him to not end up wanting to stay.


    Justin would win her over. Both of them. They were too useful to end up in the always war between the X-Men and the Brotherhood. Or whatever would happen once the Avengers and SHIELDRA intervened in mutant affairs.


    He almost wanted Tony Stark to come attack him now, once he became Iron Man. The look on his face when Phantazia could just disable his suit with a wave of her hand.


    Justin could hardly wait.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Unfortunately any further search for the perfect loyal competent right hand man or woman had to be put on hold. With the amount of purchases that Justin was pushing through, including large swaths of server farms, his presence was actually needed in many cases. As over half of his intended purchase existed in the United States - that meant smooching with state politicians to ensure everything went smoothly, and that no one threw a wrench into it all just to try and gain bribes from him - or that Roxxon or another large company took the chance of doing some corporate sabotage just because they could. So he''d been traveling across America for the past week.


    He''d regularly done the same to other companies, so he knew the bastard''s would do it if given a chance.


    Which found him, dressed to the nines, his two bodyguards following behind him, entering a charity gala in Colorado of all places, each impeccably dressed in the finest fabrics and jewelry money could buy. Domino rocking a pink number, while Phantazia went all black and backless, her pale features standing out even more, Justin had no idea where they hid their weapons, he knew they still had some. Their primary job was as bodyguards after all, even if mundane weapons weren''t their only way to achieve that.


    He was donating ten million to this charity, it was for children or puppies or something, he hadn''t listened when Senator Byron invited him, he''d been too annoyed, he still had another three states to visit. At least his donation vastly eclipsed the rest combined, which would surely get him some nice coverage in the news at least, and with him looking good together with the old senator, the well connected man would ensure the state didn''t put any hurdles in the way for his purchases, or argue the fact that some of the land would not be filing the appropriate schematics for what they were building, or any. For national security reasons, of course.


    Just business as usual. The kind of wheeling and dealing that had brought Hammer industries past its rivals. Except for the one¡­


    He''d barely entered, shaking hands with the old man who should really just lay down and die already, after spending 50 years in the United States Senate, when a commotion erupted behind him.


    His guards immediately drew him to the side slightly, before they both relaxed, immediately recognizing the commotion for the non-threat it was.


    "It''s just Tony Stark." Domino said, smoothing down her dress, rolling her eyes.


    What!?


    "What the fuck is Tony Stark doing in Colorado?" Justin said lowly, feeling his blood boiling. And sure enough to the shouts of questions from the press that had let him through with barely any notice - Tony Stark strolled inside without a care in the world, a wide grin on his face.


    "Mr. Stark, I had no idea you were joining us today." The old Senator wheezed out, stepping forward with a politician''s smile on his face, reaching out with a hand.


    Tony stepped forward and gave the Senator a friendly pat on the shoulder, completely avoiding his outstretched hand, "Wouldn''t miss it for the world, I''m a big proponent for¡­ The environment?" Tony looked around, lifting his sunglasses slightly, "I''m sorry, my personal assistant probably sent me something on what today was for, but I don''t read anything she sends me, so I''m afraid I have absolutely no idea."


    "It''s a charity gala for the organization for preserving the climate and natural beauty of Colorado." The Senator explained long sufferingly, with a tight smile. Obviously the man had dealt with Stark before. Also, the environment? Justin had really not been paying attention to this gala, it appeared. And what was Byron even doing here? He was a NRA bought, die hard republican. The environment. Is everyone going crazy nowadays? What''s wrong with life when you can''t even count on die hard old fossils to keep consistent. Justin lamented mentally.


    Tony paused, "Wow, that''s a mouthful. PCNBC then? That works¡­." He looked around smugly, raising a hand to the crowd that had gathered, "Right? I love the environment, I''m very pro environment." He put his arm around the shoulder of the old Senator, who visibly looked annoyed now, "Tell me - sorry I forgot your name," Tony paused as if to let the man introduce himself, before continuing on the second he opened his mouth, "Nevermind, not important, look, who''s donated the most? I''ll just add another mil, be the biggest shark, you know how it is."


    "That would be me, Anthony." Justin said, stepping forward. "I''m sure Senator Byron has more guests to greet, if you''d let the man go." He made sure to send the Senator a pointed look, the man definitely owed Justin one now. There better not be any issues with those server farms.


    He wasn''t sure talking with Stark was worth the cost of the three hundred million dollars he was intending on spending in this state.


    "Justine! Fancy seeing you here." Tony greeted him with that arrogant smirk he always wore on his face. Justin would eat a sidewinder missile if Tony arriving here was just a coincidence. And Stark wondered why he called him Anthony, when the smug asshole kept calling him Justine. The nerve of the bastard.


    Either way, the press was around, so were influential state politicians and lobbyists. So he couldn''t push back too hard. Image was everything when one couldn''t shrug off all public opinion and the government - like Tony fucking Stark.


    "Anthony. I''m glad you found the time to come and donate to a worthy cause." Justin managed to grind out politely, ignoring the slight name change he''d been hit with, seeing the Senator shuffle away, Tony completely forgetting his existence, would at least earn him a favor, it better. Justin''s two guards slid up to his side, immediately drawing the man whore''s gleeful attention.


    "What are you fine ladies doing with Justine, you know he''s in the small arms business right?" Tony chuckled, stroking his chin, "I''m in the missile business, there''s quite the large difference." He winked, before waving his hand dismissively towards Justin, "No worries, Justine, I won''t keep them for long, you know how the Stark charm works, no hard feelings."


    Justin barely managed to keep his face straight. He didn''t know what was worse, the fact Tony believed he could just grab the two women from him just like that, with stupidly obvious innuendo to boot, or the fact that he could remember it actually working in the past. God he couldn''t stand the man. "Anthony, a little childish, don''t you think?" He chided, unable to keep completely quiet.


    "The adults are talking." The man shushed him, Justin barely suppressed his almost violent reaction, as Tony turned towards Domino, "What do you say? Want to find out the difference between a number one?" He slid his eyes towards Justin, a carefree smirk on his face, "And number, whatever Justine is, 20? 25?"


    "You like numbers, huh?" Domino said casually, putting her hand on her hip, "Well¡­ You''d be a nine out of ten, but your attitude bumps that down to an eight." She shook her head, "I don''t bother with anyone under 10/10, sorry, sweetie." And oh, how it burned that she scored the ass higher than him still, even seeing what a tool Tony was.


    Instead of being bothered by that, Tony grinned, "Let''s grab a couple drinks, once we''ll get comfortable, I''ll get you to a ten soon enough." He suggested grandly, before turning to Eileen, giving out a low whistle, "Three is better than two, and blondes always know how to have fun, what do you say, babe? Join us?"


    "I would pull out your spine and beat you with it, Stark." Eileen responded coldly. Gaining a d''aww from Domino as she stage whispered, "She''s defending our honor boss."


    If anything Eileen''s glare at Domino was frostier then the one she''d subjected Stark to.


    Tony snapped his finger and pointed at Eileen. "You, I want even more now." He grinned at Justin, "You''ve hired them? I expected better from you Hammer." His grin was unrepentant, the fool was enjoying this way too much.


    "Whatever depravity is on your mind right now, Anthony, I remind you, that I am not you." Justin drawled, "We have a gala to attend, so do you, how about we move on, your adoring fans, will surely miss you, otherwise." Justin tilted his head to the large crowd of guests that weren''t moving any further - as they were all standing and waiting for Stark.


    Without waiting for any no doubt patronizing or disgusting come back, Justin led the ladies by their arms, further into the conference hall that was holding the charity gala. The glam and rich decor, utterly immaterial to Justin after having run into Stark.


    "Rich boys." Eileen said with a downturned twist of her lips, a look of dislike on her face.


    "Please don''t compare me to the likes of Stark." Justin warned harshly, his blood still boiling, there was no way that the man had thrown himself away from his partying - to come here for an environmental gala. No¡­ He was no doubt wondering why Justin was buying up so much real estate. He was here snooping.


    The gala ended up being a complete disaster. Not only did Justin miss out on any press due to Stark''s presence, the ass beat his donation and managed to somehow ruin the deal Justin had spent his hard pressed time working on. He''d been leaving the gala when he ran into Stark holding an impromptu press conference on the stairs of the conference hall, having gotten approval from the state senate to move forward with heavy investment in the state.


    Tony''s eyes met Justin''s as the man whore billionaire pontificated about how he''d beaten out an inferior bid, and that surely all of Colorado was rejoicing the incoming presence of Stark industries over that of lesser companies.


    If he hadn''t had the five year plan in his head, and the knowledge of the suffering Tony Stark would go through soon enough - he might have ordered Domino to attempt to influence the bastard with her power.


    Probably wouldn''t have worked anyway, so it was for the best. One thing he did believe in was the saying - never give an order that can''t or won''t be obeyed.


    Domino mostly used her powers completely subconsciously, altering the luck of someone else from a distance - someone that was no threat to her. It would have been a foolish order, unlikely to work. Now if he asked her to kill him, she''d probably be able to fire blindly behind her and still manage to ricochet a way into the bastard''s rotten heart. But Justin definitely didn''t want him dead.


    Just wanted him to suffer, really.


    Justin was definitely not interested in any more foolish endeavors involving Tony fucking Stark, however. So he dropped those lines of thoughts.


    As they entered the Limo, he growled out an order at his temporary assistant, "Cancel the meetings in North Dakota, Arizona and Texas. We''ll wait for Stark to lose interest, we can''t go into a bidding war." His assistant immediately got on her phone, starting the process to cancel meetings with some high profile politicians - it would cost him. There was no doubt about that. But he wasn''t kidding, he couldn''t afford to get into a bidding war with Stark right now.


    He''d lose interest soon enough. It was just incredibly annoying that he''d gotten involved at all. Probably that damnable AI getting involved. Picking up on his unusual spending spree and alerting Stark.


    He bitterly slumped back in the limo as Domino and Phantazia took their seats, Domino next to him, Phantazia up front with the driver to watch for threats. Domino''s luck would always be more accurate right next to him, while Phantazia had the perfect power set to immediately disrupt a threat appearing.


    He''d have to pivot - deal with internal business for now. Keep any acquisitions that Stark could interfere in to the minimum. At least¡­ Any large public acquisitions¡­ At least until he stops paying attention...


    He turned towards Domino, "You have contacts, find me Aldrich Killian. Then arrange for him to meet me at the New York office."


    "When do you want him, boss?" Domino said, casually tapping away at her phone.


    "Yesterday. Just get him in." Justin said, grabbing a bottle of whiskey from the fridge, not bothering with a glass as he took a sip. "Stark''s gonna make an alcoholic of me!" He growled, suddenly throwing the bottle, smashing it on the limo floor, Domino not even reacting, just tapping away, but his secretary eeped and dropped her phone mid call.


    Justin forcibly calmed himself, riding sullenly the rest of the way, not doing anything until he got on his private jet and into the air, then he sat down with his laptop, and started plotting, if he couldn''t move forward as quickly business wise. Well, there were other things he could do.


    Research and development for example.


    He still needed a security detail.


    A right hand.


    He took a deep breath, watching the clouds outside the window, he''d get Stark. Eventually he''d surpass him.


    He wouldn''t be laughing at him for much longer.


    £ª£ª£ª


    The next day he felt much better, letting the annoyance at Tony Stark wash away, as he walked into his New York offices, making sure to greet every employee by name, as annoying as it was to memorize that stuff, it actually did work for creating loyalty, as ridiculous as that notion was. Considering how often he was likely to be in the states now, he might have to think about moving corporate headquarters from London to here, considering all the important events that would happen in America.


    Possibly best to wait for the chitauri invasion, he''d be able to buy up a lot of cheap New York real estate afterwards. He wasn''t an insurance expert, but surely an alien invasion would not be covered in anyone''s policy. If he remembered correctly, the accompanying marvel tv shows had shown a lot of stalled rebuilding and worn down areas after the invasion. He could step in, buy cheap, build what he needed for Hammer Hegemony in New York, then sell the rest of the land for a heavy profit once the alien hysteria settled down and prices went back up.


    As he made his way towards his office, his secretary rushed up to meet him, Domino stopping her with a hand gesture when she got too close.


    "Yes? Victoria? What is it that is so urgent?" Justin said trying to remain polite and professional, he needed his people to become loyal. He needed to avoid his knee jerk reflex of shoving them down to their rightful position.


    "S-sir! There''s a man that arrived outside your office, he doesn''t have an appointment, I''m not sure how he got all this way, I called security, they weren''t aware he was in the building." Victoria rushed out, a flush to her cheeks, "Security is on their way." She added, belatedly.


    Justin rubbed his forehead, kneading it. "Cancel the security alert. My guard will be enough." He ordered. If whoever was here, had decided to come and bother him by sneaking past his security, then they would likely be useless anyway.


    "The security here is shit." Phantazia said bluntly, undoing the safety on her semi-automatic pistols.


    "Yes, I''m aware. I''m fixing it, I only have so many hours in a day." Justin said with exasperation, waving her forward, Domino spinning her own guns in her hands lazily. "Go make sure it''s not a very idiotic assassin, please, sweetheart."


    "I guess I''ll stay with the boss, as usual, good luck!" Domino said cheerfully, saluting Phantazia.


    Justin pulled out his phone, sending out emails on production runs and regular business that he was drowning in without someone he could trust to take care of it for him. There was no point in wasting time while waiting. Tony Stark owed Pepper Potts the entire world, no wonder Justin never did anything but business. Without a Pepper Potts, he never had time for anything else.


    There were too many things he couldn''t delegate to anyone less than beholden to him.


    Phantazia returned shortly thereafter, shaking her head, "Just someone very determined for a job interview, I''ve checked him, he''s got nothing on him."


    Justin put his phone away, an annoyed twitch to his eyebrows, "Well, then." He strode forward, Domino and Phantazia falling in right behind him again, Victoria trailing behind them all, still looking unsure of herself. At the last moment, Justin waved her away, if there was going to be anything compromising involved. Or if his guest needed to end up dead, the less people involved the better.


    He entered the waiting area, stepping forward with a smile, while inwardly his mind was moving at lightning speed upon seeing and recognizing the man within. "So, an interesting way to apply for a job, Mr, Bakshi." He said sharply, shaking the man''s hand firmly.


    Phantazia took position at the door, as Domino walked on forward into his office, correctly assuming the meeting would move there soon.


    "I was not aware that you knew of me, Mr, Hammer. It''s an honor." Sunil Bakshi said smoothly.


    The Indian looking, British born man was someone Justin recognized as a HYDRA operative, or at least he would be in the future, whether he was one yet¡­ That was an important question to answer.


    "Come into my office," Justin said charmingly, leading the well coiffed man forward, Phantazia taking up the rear. "I''m sure you''re here looking for the role of my personal assistant and right hand man, although I haven''t advertised that openly, so I''m impressed you not only found that out, but then infiltrated this far into my building. Shows¡­ Moxy."


    As soon as they entered the office, finding Domino sitting on his desk, kicking her feet in the air, Justin ordered coldly, "Paralyze him from the neck down."


    Phantazia immediately did as asked while Sunil Bakshi tried to rear back and strike at her. It did him no good. Phantazia''s power acted immediately at this close range. Shutting down his nerves. Without needing to be asked, she grabbed the falling body of Bakshi and dragged him over to a chair, sitting him down awkwardly, Justin coming to stand in front of him. He had to hand it to the man, even in this situation, his eyes remained free of panic.


    "Now, you will tell me everything. And if I, or one of my pretty associates here," He gestured to the grinning Domino and the cold Phantazia." Believe you are lying at any point. You''ll never walk out of this room." Justin said calmly. He turned to Domino, "Flip a coin for me, darling, heads I''m lying, tails I''m telling the truth." Justin told her, waiting for her to fish out a coin before telling her, "I am an elephant."


    Domino flipped the coin. It landed on heads. She flashed the coin for Bakshi to see. But for Justin it wasn''t enough of a point yet. "Flip it again." He ordered. And again. He made Domino flip the coin fifty times before he finally stopped. Showing the coin to Bakshi, revealing it''s not a fake, "fifty times in a row¡­ Heads." He told the man quietly, leaning down to stare him straight in the eyes. "Are you feeling lucky?"


    "Boss, that''s my bit." Domino complained. "Eileen he''s co-opting my bit again!" She whined playfully.


    "It''s boring, and useless. You''re boring and useless. Shut up." Phantazia told Domino coldly.


    "She loves me, she really does." Domino said to the paling Bakshi, "She just shows it in odd and mysterious ways."


    "I''ve only known you for days and I already want to kill you." Phantazia said with narrowed eyes.


    "The line between love and hate~" Domino retorted, winking at her. Drawing a disgusted huff out of Phantazia.


    Justin chuckled, grabbing Bakshi by the shoulders, leaning right into him, "My subordinates are eccentric, but I think they earn that, by you know," He couldn''t help the no doubt maniacal smile blooming on his face, "Having the ability to squash you like a bug." He could see that Bakshi was very aware of his situation.


    "Now, Mr, Bakshi, I actually believe you would be a very good fit for the position you''re seeking. As long as any flights of fancy you have are¡­ correctly managed." Justing said abruptly, walking away from Bakshi, having a seat behind his desk. "If you are truthful enough¡­"


    "Flip a coin, Domino." He ordered, staring at the nervous looking man that was somehow managing to stay fairly composed. "The question is¡­"


    "Are you HYDRA? Mr. Bakshi?" Justin said softly, with dark intent. There was no question about what would happen with the wrong answer in that tone. By the way Bakshi paled even further and swallowed noisily. Justin already had his answer. Yet, he needed it to be official. "Answer me!" He shouted, slamming a hand down on the desk.


    "Y-yes! But I only just got recruited last year! I''m not here for HYDRA! I saw an opportunity for my own advancement!" Bakshi said, a slight tremble to his otherwise steady voice the only sign of the tightrope between life and death the man knew he was walking on.


    "HYDRA, is a fairytale now, they were eradicated." Phantazia stated bluntly, fingering her guns. Before raising a disbelieving eyebrow as Domino raised the coin in the air. Truth. As long as she wanted to know the truth, her probability powers would keep helping her suss it out.


    "Erik is going to lose his shit." She swore quietly, but Justin still heard it. He''d have to nip that in the bud, he couldn''t have Magneto rip SHIELD apart yet.


    "HYDRA call themselves SHIELD nowadays." Justin volunteered freely. His subordinates needed to know what the threats were. He''d deal with ensuring Phantazia didn''t pass it along yet, later.


    "You''re shitting me!" Domino let out a laugh, "Oh, that''s delicious. The good guys are Nazi''s, alright, my decision to sign up seems an even better deal, now."


    Bakshi looked intrigued at that revelation, "You are dangerously well informed." He said softly.


    "And you are a HYDRA operative, and therefore useless to me." Justin said pleasantly, crossing his arms and leaning back in his chair. "Or¡­?" He left hanging, dangling a lifeline.


    Bakshi was not an idiot, he saw what I was doing, but he also knew it was his only path forward. "I am not trusted in the organization yet, but whatever information I have, will of course be at your disposal, sir." He managed to get out while projecting an aura of seriousness and dedication.


    "Oh, he''s good." Domino acknowledged, playing with the coin. "He''d be pretty useful, you know." She pointed out.


    If Bakshi had a tail he''d probably be wagging it right now, the man seemed to be trying to project a certain - I''ll be a good boy, master - vibe, with his face alone.


    Justin sighed, tenting his hands in front of his face, studying the man. He would be very useful. That was the problem. The temptation to use him. Hire him, let him inside his business. It was there, but the risks¡­ Even if Bakshi was not yet the man who worked for Whitehall and who knew several heads of HYDRA, he''d still be a large potentially devastating risk.


    Yet¡­ Bakshi, like so many others who''d become fanatical HYDRA loyalists, was the kind of man that would latch onto an ideal and follow it slavishly. Why couldn''t that ideal be Justin''s? HYDRA was heading for the trash heap within years. Whatever little loyalty the man held to the organization would evaporate once the winter soldier debacle happened. He''d have a firm position as the right hand man of, possibly by then - the CEO of the largest conglomerate in the world.


    It was keeping him from selling Justin out until then that was the concern. And it was a pretty big concern, all things told.


    "Domino." He said, a lingering thought striking. "Flip a coin, truth or lie. Today Sunil Bakshi is going to betray me."


    "Today Sunil Bakshi will sell me out to HYDRA."


    "Today Sunil Bakshi will steal secrets from my company."


    And on and on it went. Understanding blooming in my subordinates and begrudging respect in Bakshi''s. The man understood. He would live. He was hired. Justin was pointing out with ruthless efficiency how Domino would check, everyday, the man''s loyalty. So if ever he decided to betray Justin, he''d have less than a day to get away before all of Hammer industries and its money went for his head.


    Would Domino''s powers stretch to this limit? Or was the coin flip a very situational and an immediate response tactic only. Justin had no idea. But as long as Bakshi believed it. That''s what mattered. Bakshi was not yet a HYDRA fanatic, he wouldn''t die for them. Not at this point in time. Justin could twist the man into serving him instead, he''d become a very useful subordinate. Or a very dangerous one.


    Risks. You couldn''t do business without them.


    "Phantazia, release Mr. Bakshi." Justin ordered mildly. Watching as the British man shuddered in relief at being able to move his limbs again, yet he refrained from making a spectacle, sitting at attention, showcasing his resilience.


    "I will not let you down, sir." He said seriously.


    Justin smiled, and it wasn''t a nice smile, "Mistakes happen." He said lightly, "Betrayal. Lies. Deceit." He continued in a light tone, "Even HYDRA won''t protect you from my wrath in that case. My company and my position, even just my money. Would be more valuable to them than your skin. They''d sell you to me in a heartbeat."


    The best part was, it was true. And Bakshi understood it as well.


    "What would you like me to do, sir. It''s not an organization you can just¡­ Leave." Bakshi asked, smoothing his tie somewhat nervously, finally showing some emotion.


    "Oh, continue on, but let them know you''re cultivating me as an asset, so you can''t go on any missions or be in contact with them very often, I have too much of a spotlight on me, you know." Justin said, waving a hand negligently. "Once in a while divert a shipment of weapons their way or something to make it appear you''re working for them still. Just implicate some plant manager or something, preferably someone we can afford to lose, HYDRA will fall, I can promise you that. In today''s age, secrets like that can''t stay hidden, and I don''t need you implicated once they burn." Justin laughed lightly, "If you are implicated, you''ll be dead of course, so make sure to keep yourself squeaky clean."


    "Thank you, sir. I will endeavor to make myself worthy of your belief in me." Bakshi promised, bowing slightly. A twitch in his cheek was the only sign of how stressed the man was about the peculiar situation he''d found himself in today. Not exactly what he''d bet on for a job interview, Justin wagered.


    "I will be watching you, I will kill you if I even think you''re thinking of the wrong thing." Phantazia said slowly, from behind him, "Just one wrong move, and I''ll do worse, I''ll leave you alive, fully paralyzed¡­"


    Justin smiled genially at the pale Sunil Bakshi. "Don''t worry about her, she''ll warm up to you." He tsked, shaking his head at Phantazia, "That''s not how we treat people employed here, Eileen."


    "You''re my meal ticket, Hammer, I don''t want him to fuck it up and get you assassinated, because Nazi''s are apparently a thing again." She said coldly, tapping a finger on Bakshi''s shoulder, "I was not kidding." She made sure to remind him.


    "She really isn''t." Domino agreed, jumping off the desk, stretching, "We''ve got a good thing going here, it could be your good thing too¡­" she suggested, "Permission to take a load off, boss?" She asked.


    Justin waved his hand, "Don''t go too far, the day is far from over." He peered at Bakshi with a thoughtful frown, several plans that had been percolating in the back of his mind were drawn to the forefront now. Domino happily skipped out of the room, as Phantazia remained right behind Bakshi.


    "I have a task for you, before I give you the keys to the kingdom." Justin said finally, after studying the man for a few minutes. "I''ll give you a black account, with enough, but not a crazy amount in it, hire disposable assets - no trace back to this business, myself, or even to you. I want you to track down and capture a man named Kevin Thompson."


    "He might be calling himself¡­ Kilgrave."


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 2: Tying up the loose ends.

    £ª£ª£ª


    Sunil Bakshi was a very ambitious man, it was the main reason he''d joined HYDRA, when the opportunity presented itself, well that and the fact an offer like that tended to be fatal to those who said no, of course. Sunil was pragmatic enough to know that while he was an efficient and competent individual, he was not a creator, nor a leader, he knew his limitations. So what else could he do other than attach himself to an ascendant power.


    Ruling was still ruling even if one had to be subservient to someone else, or so Sunil saw it. He did not have such unbendable pride that he couldn''t see the advantages in being the number two, instead of the one in charge.


    When he''d heard the rumors around HYDRA that Justin Hammer was discreetly looking for a personal assistant, one that would be working as his right hand in the world of business and beyond - was it any wonder he decided to hedge his bets and make himself available. It would place him in a position of considerable influence - and look good to his master''s in HYDRA as well. So whether HYDRA would succeed or not, he''d still be in a good position either way.


    He''d read the file they had on Justin Hammer, he might not be high up in HYDRA, but he was clever and determined. It wasn''t overly difficult to clone the file system at the one HYDRA base he was aware of, even HYDRA falling to the simple ploy - walk in like you belong, act like you''re honestly terribly busy and on important business, you won''t receive a second glance. Worked like a charm. No one stopped him or even asked what he was doing there outside of his regular debriefs.


    Probably wouldn''t have worked as well if he wasn''t already HYDRA, but it was a moot point, since anyone not in the know, quite literally didn''t know where to go.


    Except what he''d found in the files he''d nabbed, had described an easily impressed blue blood industrialist with both an ego issue and an inferiority complex. One likely to have tantrums, and one who went through staff like others went through underwear.


    Mercurial, hard to work with, squeamish and hands off.


    Not¡­ Really the impression Sunil had gotten when he''d met Hammer himself. The man had been assertive, cold, and completely in charge of the situation from the first second of the encounter. He''d somehow recognized Sunil! He was but a footnote in HYDRA currently, somehow Hammer was not a HYDRA head with an emplaced fake file - as had been Sunil''s first thought when he''d recognized Sunil. But then how had he recognized him, if he wasn''t HYDRA? It was maddening to not have the answers.


    The thought that he was HYDRA - didn''t exactly lessen when Hammer ordered his subordinate to paralyze him. That was very in line with HYDRA behavior, after all. Very efficient as well, which Sunil could appreciate, although not particularly enjoy, as it was done to him. Being a prisoner in his body was a new experience for him, one he was not keen to repeat.


    Hammer had been in control of the situation completely, had read Sunil like an open book to a frightening degree, and possessed an impressive amount of information. When he so casually revealed that HYDRA was SHIELD, something Sunil wasn''t even aware of, having been recruited directly into HYDRA, and nowhere near trusted enough for something of that magnitude yet. It had intrigued Sunil, made him want the position even more, even though it seemed unlikely in the position he was now in. In retrospect so much of the last year made sense viewed under the lens of SHIELD being compromised.


    The ability of Domino was scarier than the woman able to paralyze him with a gesture. Sunil now faced the choice of needing to betray either HYDRA or Hammer, if he wanted to survive. Not a great prospect for a long life, either way. As Hammer was the one that could actually check if he was loyal everyday, the choice wasn''t difficult. It helped that Hammer seemed strangely unconcerned with Sunil continuing on as a HYDRA operative. Another oddity he cataloged in his mind for further study. The file they had on Hammer was just so off¡­ At this point he had to assume Hammer had somehow placed the file within HYDRA to throw off the trail of his actions by having the organization not think very highly of him.


    An act in itself that would take considerable skill for an outsider, or considerable influence in HYDRA, either through money or blackmail.


    He''d been given a chance to prove himself, and with the metaphorical sword hanging over his head, Sunil did not intend to fail. Hammer or HYDRA, he would not lose, he would not die. He would make himself useful.


    Hammer had given him a barebones file on his target, Kevin Thompson. An enhanced now calling himself Kilgrave. An enhanced capable of complete mind control. As long as the subject remained in close contact with him. If Sunil had only found this out before meeting Hammer, this find alone would have promoted him within HYDRA.


    If Hammer could harness this enhanced¡­ Sunil might have picked exactly the right man to work for after all¡­


    Sunil had been SAS, before the¡­ Incident, so even the capture of someone capable of mind control didn''t overly concern him - it was just an added parameter to the mission. He''d quickly put the money Hammer gave him to use, into action. Both in contacting a HYDRA affiliated mercenary team capable of the capture - and a dark web group that specialized in finding people, for a tidy sum. Freelancers, but ones that were very good at what they did. Through his old contacts in SAS and MI5 he knew how to contact them. The British government had sometimes utilized them to help their forces find potential terrorists before they could implement their plans.


    It had taken him over two weeks, each day spent learning more about Hammer industries, preparing himself for the role - as he had no doubt he would succeed in his task. And if he spent the rest of his black budget on asking that same black web group to find as much as possible on the names Domino and Phantazia¡­ Well, that was only due diligence.


    He needed to be sure of his potential rivals after all.


    In the end, it had been anticlimactic, mind control abilities or not. They''d found Kilgrave, the enhanced having taken over a rich playboy''s mansion where he was using his entire family for his amusement. As there was no time limit, Sunil coldly kept the team watching and not interfering in Kilgraves depravities - of which there were many. There were too many unneeded risks in sneaking up to the mansion - too many chances Kilgrave could cotton on and take control of his mercenaries if they got close and he noticed. That possibility was why none of them knew who exactly was paying them for the job in the first place.


    Any trail if Kilgrave won the day - would lead to HYDRA, not Sunil nor Hammer. Sunil did not intend to fail, so the precaution was likely unnecessary.


    They''d waited and waited, until finally Kilgrave exited the mansion, on his way elsewhere, five days after they found him. His playthings were broken beyond repair. Which is how they''d tracked him down to this city in the first place, the man leaving a trail of broken people behind.


    Kilgrave had no chance to utilize his ability when a team of men fired tranquilizer darts into his back, popping out from their hiding places, firing before Kilgrave was even aware of the danger. Out of range enough that his ability shouldn''t be able to affect them taking the shot. Which proved correct.


    They had the unconscious man in a van, bound, gagged, and on an IV to keep him in a medical coma, within two minutes of the man exiting the gates of the manor.


    Sunil did not know what exactly Hammer wanted with such a man, the possibilities were endless for such abilities. But he had proven himself, now.


    He picked up his phone, having just received the confirmation that their captive had arrived at the safe house Hammer had arranged. A hidden basement of a derelict warehouse in Philadelphia. With the press of a button he placed the call.


    The phone picked up on the other line.


    "Sir. We have him." He reported.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin Hammer allowed himself a small pleased smile as he put his phone down. Not only had Bakshi proved himself, giving him that assistant he needed to free up more time for himself, but he now had Kilgrave.


    He couldn''t do much with the man, yet. So he''d remain in a medical coma until his plans came into a more fruitful phase. He hadn''t wanted the man running loose until then, so this worked out just fine. What if he''d run into the man one day, if he remained free? No, a mind controlling sadist had needed to be taken off the board for his safety, and everyone''s he supposed, not that they mattered compared to him. He glanced at his guest, giving him a megawatt smile, "Apologies Aldrich, you know how it is, business never ends." He said smoothly.


    Aldrich Killian didn''t answer, just glared at him impotently. The man was honestly quite rude.


    When Killian had continuously rebuffed his polite enquiries to meet, well, Justin had to insist. Really it was his own fault. The man who''d one day create the Mandarin debacle and who''d blackmailed the vice-president of the United States, had an ego even larger than Justin''s. Perhaps even matching that of Tony Stark himself. Of course he wouldn''t come for a meeting, he was too self important and focused on his plans for Extremis.


    Which also told Justin that Killian already had a financial backer. So Killian and his plans worked their way up higher on his to do list.


    Because unluckily for him, Justin had a few plans of his own. And vastly more wealth and knowledge in which to implement them.


    "I believe we were discussing where exactly you''ve hidden away your little think tank currently? And the location of Maya Hansen?" Justin asked cooly, leaning back on the couch of his private jet, a glass of scotch in hand.


    Really, Killian had himself to blame, if he''d come to the New York office on his own, none of this unpleasant business would be needed, he''d just need to cooperate and accept Justin as his superior, take the funding on offer and go about things Justin''s way. And well, that''s where the snag was, he supposed.


    Killian wanted it his way only.


    Justin wanted it his way only.


    One of them was going to be very disappointed. Considering their position right now, it wasn''t going to be Justin. Well¡­ He was still slightly disappointed, he''d expected some sense of sanity from his fellow Tony Stark hater, not a rabid animal incapable of realizing his situation.


    "I''m not telling you anything, it''s my invention!" Killian snarled, eyes almost bulging out of his head, where he sat on the chair opposite Justin''s couch, limbs and neck all tightly clamped to the chair with metal bands, allowing him no movement.


    Phantazia was on a different assignment, so he couldn''t utilize her lovely paralyzing abilities today. The classics worked just as well however. Mayhap even better, as Killian could feel it, and struggle, yet not gain an inch, feeling more hopeless and exhausted for every moment. Luckily it was 2006 and he wasn''t a fire breathing monster quite yet. Justin would never have let that onto a plane of his, captured and restrained or not. Risk management was more of an important skill then any of his engineering skills nowadays. Especially with how crazy the MCU would become.


    "Your invention? Surely not, it''s Maya Hansen''s work, with a little help from a drunk Tony Stark that kickstarted this all, you just happened to¡­" Justin searched for words, shrugging in the end with a condescending smirk, ''Be there." He chuckled snidely, "Might as well have been Osborn or anyone else, you just happened to pass by and picked up an asset."


    Killian was practically frothing at the mouth at the casual disrespect, making Justin feel all the more pleased that he''d decided to go the strong arm route with this fool, instead of buying him and using him. He''d be a disaster in the making, Extremis would just make his character flaws more dominant as he''d double down on himself. Like the man had enough good qualities to double down on, he was a deluded egotistical maniac.


    "He might actually die from spontaneously combusting if you keep riling him up, boss." Domino said with an amused glance at the struggling Killian, the lady of luck sitting next to Justin on the couch, flipping through a fashion magazine.


    "He makes it so easy." Justin said with a mocking shake of his head, "Just watch," Justin turned to Killian again, "Tony Stark - while drunk - advanced Extremis more than you''ve done with a whole team and millions of dollars."


    Killian roared, enraged, fighting his restraints, veins bulging on his neck, his countenance a deep red from all the exertion and anger he was putting out. "Tony Stark is a disease!" He wheezed out, the restraint cutting his airflow.


    "He could practically be your twin." Domino said with a teasing smirk, briefly looking up from her magazine.


    Justin scoffed, offended. "Tony Stark is an absolute mess of a human," He said, a disgusted frown on his face, "He is inferior to me in every way, but I do not act like a spoiled child just at the mention of his name."


    "Uh-huh." Domino said, engrossed in her magazine.


    Justin gave her an annoyed look, he was not obsessed with Tony Stark¡­ He wasn''t!


    "You''re interrogating me! Stop talking about Stark!" Killian spits out, hair disheveled, his countenance one of rage and disbelief.


    Justin clicked his tongue, annoyance rising, "What a precious princess," He mocked, taking a slow sip of his scotch, watching the AIM founder. "Can''t even handle not being the center of attention even now, asking to be interrogated more." Justin shook his head, one eye twitching in irritation. "How on earth could this one ever be a possible rival to Stark." He grumbled, dissatisfied with how one note Killian was.


    "Stop saying his name!" Killian growled. Pushing so hard against his neck restraint he managed to choke himself, coughing and spluttering as Justin watched on, unimpressed.


    This could have been him. This kind of pathetic one note mind, fixated on revenge. How very disappointing. He''d had plans for Killian, ones that were now defunct. The man was of no use. Except the information he held.


    "Since you''re so eager, "Justin sighed, putting away his scotch, "Where is Maya Hansen? Where are AIM''s labs? Not the official fake one, the unofficial one? Be a nice fellow and share, since you are so talkative¡­" Justin waved to their surroundings casually, "Replacing the carpet on a jet is a complete pain in the ass, do you have any idea how much the staff will bitch and complain if we have to do that?"


    Not that Justin cared, he''d probably just buy a new jet.


    "Just cut his dick off, always works on making men talk." Domino said idly, continuing to flip through her magazine as Justin and his security detail all stared at her. Killian for the first time looked something else then enraged. He finally had a look of fear on his face.


    "Wow!" Justin said, leaning away from Domino slightly, "Okay, Domino, not needed, okay!" He complained, "You''re scaring my guys, here."


    Domino raised an unimpressed eyebrow, "Why are they worrying? They have nothing worth cutting off anyway." She said with a sweet smile, daring them to argue with her. Some of the men were shuffling nervously at her look.


    Justin laughed, shaking his head, amused despite the annoyance that was Killian."We keep being side-tracked, no one''s cutting off anyone''s dicks, okay, that''s just not kosher." He eyed Killian thoughtfully, the man''s eyes rolling in his head as he strained to break his restraints again, grunting at the effort. "At least not unless I''m out of the room first." He amended, Killian seemed the stubborn sort.


    Over the past two weeks he''d finally assembled a proper security detail, former special forces types, the ones who knew to keep their mouth shut, men willing to do anything for the amount of money Justin provided. Their families would be taken care of no matter what, college, careers, etc. Justin would provide for them. And the same principle of carrot and stick worked there too, the men were well aware that Justin could also go after their families in a heartbeat if they tried anything. Or his subordinates could, if he died due to their incompetence or betrayal.


    Fear shouldn''t be the first avenue used by a leader, but it should always be in his back pocket, ready and waiting to be unleashed. They wouldn''t betray him, and they got rich for simply following him around. Everyone wins.


    Justin checked his watch, they were still a few hours out, he sighed, "He keeps being very unresponsive to my questions, it''s rude, he doesn''t answer my calls, then I wine and dine him on a private jet¡­" He sighs dramatically again, "Break his fingers, let''s start there." He ordered his men.


    He leaned back, and picked up his scotch again, as the noise inside the jet picked up dramatically.


    A few hours later they landed at their destination.


    He had to hand it to Killian. He was an utterly annoying and simple man, but he didn''t give up easily. Although it moved along briskly still, probably Domino''s presence ensuring every hit, or break, was done in the exact way to draw as much information out as possible from the man.


    Probably for the best that he never came to the New York office in the first place and had to be hunted down instead. His sudden disappearance worked so much better now - when Justin wasn''t officially the last person to see him alive.


    He placed a call as he walked down the stairs, exiting his jet, Domino a step behind, his security detail already having secured the landing site."Bakshi, I''m sending you details on a location with scientists and data I need, take them all, scrub the place of anything in regards to their research after, and destroy it."


    The man still had the team that took Kilgrave, he could just redirect them to this new task. Perhaps they were worth simply putting on retainer. At least until his own security team was more capable of both protection and striking at his enemies.


    Justin listened to the reply, idly watching as a trunk was carried off the plane, much heavier than it was supposed to be. "No, take the carrot approach with Hansen, she''s desperate to complete her work, she''ll follow willingly. If the others aren''t¡­" He watched the trunk, humming idly to himself, "Well, only Maya and the data is important, use your best judgment." He hung up, getting into the awaiting limousine.


    Maya might not be able to do it on her own yet, but she could work on it, until Justin had someone able to finish it off, someone that could perfect it, without creating living bombs. Not that the imperfect Extremis couldn''t have its uses as well¡­


    God bless America, there were plenty of veterans available desperate for the chance to regrow a limb, Maya would have all the test subjects she needed.


    Justin wouldn''t be fool enough to let them out though. They would remain test subjects. He did not need the attention from one of them blowing up and attracting SHIELD.


    This would be a secret until he was ready to unveil it all. He wasn''t a short sighted fool like Killian.


    Although dangling a cure for his daughter''s limbs over the future vice-presidents head had been inspired, something he''d have to think about. Even if he bought Ellis, an insurance policy wouldn''t be too out of bounds.


    That way if Ellis stopped playing ball¡­


    Justin would win, either way.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Soon enough the limousine brought them to their destination, an exclusive little restaurant in Seoul, South Korea.


    Justin walked in, with Domino flanking him, waving off the proprietor as he already spied his quarry, nervously fidgeting at the table he''d booked. Well, one of his minions booked anyway. Justin didn''t deal with the peasants - that''s what he had people for.


    "Helen Cho, how nice to meet you, I apologize if I''m a bit late, a negotiation went a little sideways and took some extra time to resolve." Justin said warmly, grasping the young South Korean woman''s hand, and kissing it softly, smiling charmingly as she blushed cutely at him.


    "I''m early, so no apologies needed, Mr Hammer." She said nervously, pushing a lock of hair behind her ear.


    Justin sat down opposite of her, while Domino stood behind him, eyes going around the locale lazily. "Call me Justin, Helen. Is it alright if I call you Helen, sweetheart?" At her nervous nod, he continued on, "This is cozy, right? I hope it''s alright?"


    The restaurant only seated ten people, it was small, but hideously expensive and exclusive. It didn''t even have a menu, the chefs simply cooked masterpieces from whatever they felt like that particular day. Only a customer''s allergy could deviate their random creativity. Although they tended to lean heavily on seafood.


    The entire locale was dedicated to the sea, the walls and even the floor were see through bulletproof glass. The entire restaurant was surrounded by water in the walls and floor, corals, sand and the sea creatures living in it, frolicking through their life, all seen by the customer. The restaurant did not have much lighting, the flickering lights shining through the water around them casting much of the place in shadows, a nice cozy spot, like he''d said.


    Helen giggled slightly, covering her mouth with a hand, "This place¡­ It''s amazing, but probably costs more than my entire tuition and doctorate to eat at."


    "Good thing you''re on a scholarship then." Justin said cheekily, making the girl giggle again, "Although obviously as I''m the one that asked you here, dinner is on me, so enjoy it, no matter the outcome of our little chat."


    Helen Cho would become the world''s most renowned geneticist. She was currently still finishing her doctorate. Ripe for the plucking. Whether for her cradle technology or if she could assist in finishing Extremis. Or any number of projects he had in the air - she would be an incredibly valuable asset. It helped that she was cute as a button as well. Justin did approve of eye candy scientists. A nice departure from old hairy men. Like so many women in the MCU, Helen Cho could do modeling if her day job started to bore her. It was a great world to be a man in.


    "What¡­ Is this about, exactly?" Helen asked, brimming with curiosity.


    "A guy can''t just invite a cute girl out for dinner, eh?" Justin said charmingly, eyes twinkling as he met hers.


    She blushed, but held the gaze steadily, "Billionaires usually don''t invite me out for dinner out of the blue, no." She said, a warm mischievous tilt to her lips.


    Justin leaned back slightly, giving her a once over with a rakish smirk on his face. "Well, that''s certainly their loss, my dear."


    "Oh my god." Domino whined in exasperation behind Justin, low enough only he could hear. Justin ignored her, the woman was fine with torture? Yet some light flirting made her complain, it better not impact the meeting and give him bad luck. He was determined to recruit Helen. She was very high up on his list of necessary assets.


    "As for why I''m here, other than your delightful company, of course. Let''s enjoy this dinner before we get to business." Justin suggested warmly, getting a short agreeing nod from the still red cheeked young woman in front of him.


    Justin was no Thor, but some flattery from a rich handsome man did have the ability to put a young woman in a good mood, the food would hopefully increase her positive view of this get together. It was costly enough. He ordered a bottle of Chateau Lafite 1869 to pair with their meal, a fine wine would also help woo his quarry, and when she''d undoubtedly google it afterwards, she''d be impressed he spent a quarter of a million dollars on wine for their meeting. She''d join up, he would refuse any other possibility.


    It spoke for just how exclusive this restaurant was - that they had a wine cellar that held that quality of wine.


    They chatted easily during the dinner, Justin asking about her doctorate and Helen continuously trying to tease out the information on why this meeting was happening in-between bites. A natural curiosity about all things was a good habit in a scientist - and obviously Helen Cho had it in spades.


    Finally, every morsel was devoured, and Helen sat attentively, gaze fixed on Justin.


    "I''ll make it as simple as possible, Helen." Justin said casually, dropping his napkin on his now empty plate. "I want to recruit you for my new BioTech company. I want to change the world, and I believe you''re the key."


    "M-me? I''m not even finished with my doctorate yet." Helen said, looking very flattered and a little overwhelmed. Even if she had to suspect I was here for such a reason - not many other reasons for a meeting like this.


    Justin smirked suavely, "Unlimited funding, baby! State of the art labs," He winked at her, "You can play to your heart''s content," Seeing her very interested look, he continued on, "You can hire your own staff, pick anyone you like. Work without limitations to push science as far as you can go." He told her, letting the silence stretch after, making it clear he''d be willing to go pretty far for her.


    Helen looked a bit shell shocked, biting her lip in thought, her eyes flickering to Justin''s before she seemed to fall into deep thought. No doubt weighing pro''s and con''s in her mind. Justin had made sure there wouldn''t be many con''s. He was confident. Domino being here was just the extra ''lucky'' push to orientate things his way.


    Finally, she met his gaze, "So¡­ Unlimited funding?" She asked, breathily, leaning forward, eyes glittering in excitement.


    The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    "Anything you want, baby!" Justin winked, a salacious smirk on his face. Flirting with such a gorgeous woman wasn''t exactly a hardship.


    "Gross." Domino interjected again, turning away, snickering, when Justin sent her a look.


    "Don''t listen to her, sweetheart, she''s just jealous." Justin said, smirking at Domino''s audible scoff behind him.


    Helen smiled.


    Justin almost regretted he wasn''t more like Tony Stark, just for a moment.


    "Smiling is good," He said, lifting his glass of ridiculously expensive wine, "Smiling means yes, yes?" He inquired, smirking self assuredly.


    "Yes." Helen said, her smile widening, her blush back again. "I accept!"


    Two hours later¡­


    Domino slid down on the couch next to him, the private jet already leaving South Korea. Justin glanced at her, snorting softly, "Out with it, you obviously have something irreverent to say, as usual."


    Domino smirked, resting her chin on one hand, the other playing with his tie, "You could have gotten her panties off like that," She snapped her fingers, "Kind of surprised you didn''t," She trailed a finger down his chest, "Billionaire older man, giving her all that she''s ever dreamt of, wining and dining her in the most expensive restaurants, flying out just for her¡­" She chuckled, a teasing tilt to her lips, "A young inexperienced woman like that, she''d be all over you," The fingers stopped their teasing trail, Domino grinning as they clenched into a fist - as she punched him lightly in the shoulder, "And not completely awful looking either!"


    Justin rubbed his shoulder, giving her a dark look, "I thought your exact words, actually - were ''Gross''." He pointed out dryly.


    Domino laughed, resting her head against the back of the couch, a small smile still playing on her lips, "I was just teasing, and you, boss, are avoiding the question!"


    "What question?" Justin asked, secretly pleased his subordinate was opening up slightly, and comfortable with teasing him, as annoying as that would no doubt become. He''d need her loyalty in the coming years.


    Domino smirked gleefully, "Why didn''t you ''Hammer'' the cute Korean girl, who by the way, was definitely up for it?"


    Helen Cho had indeed lingered slightly at their goodbye, seemingly waiting for the opportunity for anything else to be said, or an offer to spend the night, she hadn''t been hard to read.


    Justin rolled his eyes, "She''s barely legal, to begin with." He defended himself. It''s not like he was an idiot, it was pretty clear that Helen Cho was swept off her feet due to his interest, and his promises to fulfill her every scientific dream.


    "Because legal is usually something you''re so concerned with Boss¡­" Domino snorted, visibly amused, eyes briefly moving to the spot that had once held Aldrich Killian. Her eyes returned to his with an eyebrow raised challengingly.


    "Point taken," Justin said dryly, polishing his glasses to give himself a minute to think, he himself wasn''t entirely sure why he hadn''t taken advantage of the opportunity.


    Perhaps it just reeked too much of Tony Stark, he intended to be better than the man, in every conceivable way. Except perhaps in risking his life flying around fighting aliens. He could keep that. While Justin, before his new outlook on life - had not been celibate by any means¡­ He had also not been the cad Tony Stark was, and is. Perhaps if Helen Cho had not been someone he intended to utilize hard, in his business going forward. He''d be interested in using her in other ways.


    "I suppose the barely legal part is not as much a detriment as the fact I am counting on her for quite a lot of future work, sex might complicate that." Justin finally answered Domino, and himself, on why he hadn''t pushed for anything more. Helen Cho would literally be the foremost expert on genetics in the world. To jeopardize that because she was cute was simply insanity. If he wanted to get laid, he could probably line up a queue of shallow beautiful women - hungry for the rich and famous.


    Money, Power, Fame. It was all sought after by everyone, and it would attract gold diggers everywhere. So it wasn''t like he was hurting for prospects, or in any rush. He''d get his fun as soon as he got the more important things squared away.


    Domino pouted like a petulant child, "Boss, that''s so boring, it''s always business this, business that, with you, live a little!" She protested. "Fuck hot Korean chicks!" She added, putting her hands together like a prayer.


    Justin glanced at her, slightly disturbed, "You''re literally the luckiest woman alive, why are you so focused on this? You''ll stumble into your own ''hot Korean chick'' " Justin made quotation marks with his fingers, "If that is what you want."


    The universe would literally make it happen. Justin didn''t know if he was happy or dissatisfied with the power being nowhere near as strong in affecting him and his surroundings, as it was for her personally. On one hand, things would always work out, on the other, the insane degrees at which that power sometimes manifested would irritate Justin immensely. Also, it would be too easy. He wouldn''t even have to try anymore. Whatever passive effects he got right now from their partnership, was already ridiculously beneficial as it was.


    Domino rolled her eyes, huffing in disappointment, "This isn''t about me, boss, you gotta stop and smell the roses once in a while, you know?" She tilted her head, a playful smile on her face, "Or the cute college girls."


    "I''m not smelling anyone, Domino. As for the future, in regards to women¡­ We''ll see, maybe I''ll get lucky." Justin joked, gaining another eye roll from his subordinate.


    "That is getting less and less funny with time." She muttered, crossing her arms, leaning back, pouting.


    £ª£ª£ª


    The next two months were a whirlwind of activity. Justin continued with his aggressive purchasing strategy - although mostly outside of the United States at the moment due to Stark''s interference. His purchases would ensure he would be ready to hit the ground running, even if they''d be idle for the next two years. It also bought him a lot of goodwill and clout with the governments of the countries he was investing in. Something he wasn''t shy about taking advantage of.


    It allowed Justin to continue to build safehouses and underground off the book labs and factories, underneath land and buildings that were officially something completely different. It worked for SHIELD and HYDRA, it would work for him.


    Not being a complete idiot, he bought out a minor construction company that operated in half a dozen countries, reincorporating it as Hammer Construction Ltd. He fired everyone that had even the hint of a stable and good life, he didn''t need them - expertise could be taught. Loyalty was bought easiest from desperation. The construction work would take longer, using his own company that would need to start almost from scratch with personnel. But he''d be able to actually keep things in house, and ensure loyalty. He instructed the managers he put in charge of the hiring process to find the downtrodden, the ones with no future, the ones on the edges of society. Especially minorities who had no trust in the government.


    Justin would offer them work, well paid work. The education to make them able to perform it. Housing if needed, healthcare. He''d lift them out of the dirt. And it would take longer, yes. It would cost him at least quadruple the amount to achieve - rather than just continuing on normally, and that was probably underselling the cost heavily. But these people that would make up Hammer Constitutional Ltd. They''d be his. They''d know who raised them from misery and despair, who safeguard them even still with good wages and homes. They''d be loyal. They wouldn''t talk. Exactly what he would need from a construction company that would need to grow rapidly to manage what would come. Because Justin would not allow anyone from the outside, to have any part in his more sensitive businesses.


    While he was at it, he set up the bare bones of what he would need for the future. Creating companies that barely existed in anything but name yet, starting a slow, staggered hiring process for talent. They''d be paid for simply research for the next little while, but again, he would take the extra cost and eat it right now, to drag in the absolute ability to print money in two years.


    First off the list, HammerTech. Knowing the technology of his own future as well as that of the MCU, plus knowing several very intelligent people in this reality he could snatch up¡­ He foresaw himself crushing the likes of Apple, Samsung, Sony and the like, and creating a future where Stark wouldn''t be able to dominate the consumer electronics market, because HammerTech would beat him to it. He''d start now, spending the money to launch satellites into space, making things ready for his own (eventual) 5G network across the globe, for when the H-Pad and H-Phone would hit the markets, followed by the H-watch and similar modern innovations (HammerPhone was unfortunately not as cool as a StarkPhone for a name, so H-Phone it was, or should he say, would be.) He''d be aided by the abilities of his most important future recruit - even without being a genius of the level of Stark, he''d have the people and capabilities to advance ahead of his competition then - other than Stark, but he''d be in Afghanistan once the time to release everything arrived. He''d have months of catch up to try and recoup and catch HammerTech, and that''s without having the suppliers, the factories, the staff - the training and knowledge in place and operational for that tech - unlike him, who would have everything ready to go by then. By the time Stark caught up and released an equal, or better, product. Hammer would still have a dominant market share and a more widespread network that Stark would need a year or two to attempt to match.


    And that''s if he had enough time to dedicate to it, which considering Stane, the stop of weapons production and sales, the beef with the government, SHIELDs involvement and his palladium poisoning. Justin projected it would take over five years for Stark to catch up - and by then he''d never fully dislodge HammerTech from the top position. Although he''d be able to make better, more expensive phones, HammerTech would hold the market for the majority of actual people that could afford a regular level of tech.


    The likes of Stark would immediately understand what he was doing once the first satellite went up of course, but that was okay, he couldn''t possibly understand exactly what Justin could achieve - couldn''t know what cards Justin had, to achieve what Stark would think he wasn''t capable of. And he''d underestimate him anyway, especially as HammerTech would hardly be operational yet. It wouldn''t be ready for two years, probably a little later even. His best recruit would only be available in that tiny window two years from now, and that would give Justin the advantage in the consumer electronics market, and so many more advantages that he could only shudder at the possibilities.


    It was a good thing he didn''t answer to any other shareholders, his liquid capital would practically be non-existent in two years, all spent with nothing apparent to show for it. He''d actually have to sell some assets to ensure he could pull it all off in time, if the plan remained the same. To anyone on the outside looking in - he wondered what they taught about his nonsensical moves¡­


    HammerEnergy was rather evidently going to be the company which would dominate the energy market. For now, it was simply building a HQ, hiring people that would be making connections and plans - but not much else until it was showtime. He''d no doubt confound Stark and others in the market about what on earth he was doing with this company. Let them think he''d gone crazy, it gave him more room to maneuver.


    HammerSec was fairly self explanatory. It would not make him money, as he''d be basically paying himself through his own subsidiaries. It would allow him to craft what in essence would be his own private army, one to fully protect all his facilities and people. He might not be able to do much if Iron Man drops out of the sky on one of his facilities - except rake him over the coals in the media as well as politically. But his own security company would ensure regular thugs as well as SHIELD and HYDRA ones, could not just waltz in and steal from him, or kidnap his people.


    There was no use in gaining such minds as Helen Cho - if he''d just lose them as soon as the world cottoned on how bright she really was.


    HammerBioTech had already recruited its most important employee in said Helen Cho, his promises of unlimited funding for her ideas snatching her up immediately. Once he''d be sure whether she can be fully trusted, he''d induct her into the extremis formula, if not the actual test subjects part - no need to upset the nice and good scientists - with the behind the scenes work. He already had feelers out for other scientists he knew were going to be useful. He''d eventually fold Extremis under its umbrella once it was viable for consumers. Well, a weaker version anyway. He wasn''t going to let people become superpowered across the world. The healing aspect however¡­ He''d make a killing even if it didn''t approach the complete regeneration of Iron Man 3.


    Even an almost completely watered down Extremis would have him completely own the pharmaceutical market on his own. No need for all these pills anymore - Extremis is there to help with what ails you.


    He''d already recruited Dr. Wilfred Nagel. Well¡­ ''recruited'' because he was HYDRA, so he''d been forced to kidnap the man to ensure secrecy of the project. He''d turned out to be amenable to his situation when he found out what he''d been kidnapped for, and the kind of resources he''d be working with. Although only having just begun working on the super soldier serum - this was the man that recreated the serum, but was blipped away, forcing him to finish it in 2023-24 instead of 2018. He was currently 12 years younger then the man he would be when he recreated the serum - he obviously had the ability, so Justin had him taken. It was unlikely HYDRA would care, as he was a rather low level scientist on the project at this time.


    While not interested in being a superhero, or in the spread of them - the supersoldier serum would be a valuable asset to have in his back pocket. And might be worth taking just for the health benefits and to be less squishy - even if he had no intentions to personally fight as much as a single alien.


    This arm of his business was why he''d sent Phantazia on a little trip those months ago - even before he had Nagel.


    £ª£ª£ª


    2 months ago, while Justin Hammer was on a private jet with Aldrich Killian.


    Eileen arrived at her destination in Baltimore, four men from the new security detail following along, their two cars coming to a stop right in front of their target''s residence.


    They were all wearing FBI gear, their coats visibly blaring out their affiliation in bright yellow letters. Trying to hide what you''re doing when you''re up to no good just draws attention in these kinds of neighborhoods, approaching in broad daylight as something official, and people will only remember the badge and uniform. Not the people wearing them. Eileen had been taught about such things by Mystique, she wasn''t a novice, in any manner.


    Although no longer part of the brotherhood, she still had the skills. Something that had made her a very well paid mercenary - even more so now that Hammer had hired her.


    Even as she walked up to the door she could see doors closing and windows shuttering all down the street. No one wanted any part of the government''s attention.


    The activities today might not even get reported at all. All the better for Eileen and her boss.


    She rapped her knuckles on the door, affecting the bored voice of an official doing a routine job, "FBI, open up!"


    There was only silence for minutes, even after a repeated request. Eileen nodded to her team, two of them silently going out back, to ensure there were no quick escapes.


    "FBI, if you don''t open the door, we''re coming in!" She warned, adding a tone of annoyance to the bored officiating voice she was using. Just routine business, nothing special, just wanna talk, etc etc, fall for it you old coot!


    "I''m coming, leave my damn door alone," A voice called out angrily, sudden shuffling heard inside, within a minute several locks could be heard being undone, each with deliberate slowness, then the door opened just a smidge, an older black man peering out distrustfully. "Whaddya want?" He bit out, showing no inclination that he''d let them in.


    Eileen immediately paralyzed him, pushing the door open with a smirk, as the old man fell down on the floor with a loud thud. She winced slightly at the mental strain she suddenly suffered under, apparently super powered people were a lot more difficult to paralyze, she felt like she''d just finished a day working out. Weird, she wasn''t as affected doing the same to mutants, so what was different?


    She might have to ask her boss to let her conduct her own experiments on the man, she hadn''t had much chance to experiment as a mercenary - when your life was on the line, you did the tested and true if you wanted to live.


    She stepped in over the body, his eyes staring ahead in impotent rage and fear. The two men in the back were breaching through the back door at that moment, having heard the thud. Eileen immediately sent them to scour the house for any witnesses. A broken back door was no matter, perhaps it would even add to the confusion of what happened this day should anyone investigate.


    Her men returned quickly, shaking their heads, nothing, as she''d suspected.


    "Well that was easy, wasn''t it, Isaiah?" Eileen said, crouching down, meeting his eyes with a crooked smirk. "And the best thing is¡­ No ones going to even miss you." She ran a hand across his cheek, "A black supersoldier, who knew?" Her boss was very well informed, indeed. She''d have to warn Erik, who knows what information Hammer had on him.


    And she''d have to keep an eye out¡­ Because he might send Mystique to snoop, and whatever her feelings for them, she was Hammers for as long as he kept his end of the deal, so she wouldn''t allow any spies, she would do her job, she had pride in herself, she would not allow any exceptions.


    Her men put handcuffs on the paralyzed man, standing him up, dragging him out to the car, imitating an arrest. Once inside the car, they injected him with enough drugs to drop even an enhanced like him, and Eileen could finally let go, rolling her shoulders, "Almost felt like I went through it myself." She muttered, displeased.


    Luckily Hammer was giving her plenty of opportunities to practice. Although she probably wouldn''t get another super soldier. She''d have to ask really nicely for this one.


    "Let''s move out, no chances. Eyes on him, all the time." She barked, the cars setting in motion. She''d be on high alert until they got their target put away somewhere nice and cozy.


    It would be a familiar setting for Isaiah Bradley.


    £ª£ª£ª


    4 months later¡­


    Justin was fairly annoyed, it had taken over four months to track this man down. He supposed he''d still managed decently as there were certainly other people tracking him with more vicious intent. And with better resources - as much as it galled him to say.


    It was still incredibly annoying. Just as the man himself.


    "Little Hammer! Been awhile, hasn''t it boy?" Ulysses Klau called out cheerfully, a bib around his neck as he slobbered all over a bucket of crawfish, potatoes and corn.


    Quite the difference from his meeting with Helen Cho in every aspect.


    "The deep south, Klaue. Really?" Justin said disdainfully, wiping down the picnic table seat with a handkerchief, before sitting down opposite of the man, already annoyed with his smug smirk and filthy beard. Justin detested sloppiness.


    Klaue guffawed, "Mate, ain''t no one looking for me here, just a bit of a vacation, you see." He noisily sucked out the juices from the head of a crawfish, before offering it to Justin, an earnest look on his face.


    "You''ve got to be kidding me." He said flatly. Rejecting it outright. Domino earned his ire by not being able to suppress a giggle behind him. Justin closed his eyes briefly, and took a deep breath, "Do we always need to do this song and dance, Klaue?"


    Klaue looked at him innocently, "Not much of a dancer, mate," He pointed a crawfish at Domino and Phantazia, leering suddenly, "Unless it''s horizontally, you willing to trade?" He gestured to the dark haired male mercenary who stood guard over him.


    "Hardly seems a fair trade." Justin said dryly. He could feel Domino''s eyes staring into the back of his head. Relax, woman, like I''d trade the golden goose, he scoffed internally. Phantazia on the other hand, seemed to be coldly amused as Justin glanced back at her, he''d expected her to be the offended one.


    Klaue''s eyes widened dramatically, "Hey, now? You not a poof? Learn something new everyday, ain''t I always saying that, Marcus?" He slapped his guard on the butt, hard, the man had no reaction to it. "He''s got those nice and firm buttocks for you, Hammer." He winked, an inviting smile on his face. Frowning when Justin wouldn''t react, "I read you all wrong, Hammer, not often I do that." He chewed noisily on a piece of corn, drawing a wince out of Justin. "Whaddya want then? Another load of weapons fell off a truck, huh?"


    "I''m here to make you an offer." Justin said cooly, trying his best to keep his actual cool. He absolutely loathed this man. Unfortunately he was very good at his job, which is why Justin had always used him as the go between for those ''lost'' shipments of Hammer industries weapons going to less savory hands.


    He''d never had the ''pleasure'' so far, of meeting the man out the back of a whorehouse in the deep south. There was nothing about any of that sentence that made Justin happy.


    Unfortunately the United States had borders leaky as a sieve, and criminals like Klaue could easily walk in and out whenever they pleased. And Justin would likely never find the man in any place that had an ounce of class anyway. But really, the deep south.


    "I thought you said you weren''t a poofter? Heh," Klaue joked, nudging his guard, "Mates gonna make me an offer I can''t refuse, aye?"


    "Can you take this seriously for one moment." Justin ground out between gritted teeth. Well aware of the clear amusement radiating off Domino and Phantazia behind him, they both took too much joy in seeing him irritated, lately. How he wished he could just order the damn man paralyzed and rip what he needed from his head.


    Klaue bit off a crawfish head, spitting it out, eyeing Justin seriously, "But I don''t take you seriously, Hammer, boy." He said slowly, leaning forward, a dark grin on his face, juices running down his beard. "Word is, you''re going crazy, blowing all your dough on nothing."


    "Does it matter as long as you get paid?" Justin said irritably, straightening his suit, feeling very out of place, especially with Klaue wearing only boxers and a filthy t-shirt. He pitied the whores - even they should get better standards than this.


    "Suppose not." Klaue grunted, amusement shining in his eyes. "Long as you can still pay now, mind!" He pointed towards Justin with a potato, "I don''t do IOUs." Klaue seemed surprised at seeing the potato in his hand, before shrugging, wiping it on his shirt before taking a big bite out of it.


    Justin leaned forward, trying to mask his disgust with a look of anger. "How about fucking Tony Stark so bad, the pretentious man whore won''t be able to sit down for a decade, that get your tiny limp dicks attention?" He sneered, glaring at the man. "Speaking your language enough now, you savage?"


    Klaue laughed, spreading his arms wide, "My boy! All grown up now and everything. Brings a tear to my eye." He mimed wiping his eyes, drawing a twitch out of Justin. "Still say you''re a poof, all this talk about fucking Tony fucking Stark." He chuckled, before slamming a hand down on the table, his mood suddenly switching, Klaue sneering furiously, "Money, that''s what matters, money! If Tony Stark gets fucked that''s a damn side benefit, but don''t try and ''manage'' me, boy. You can pay, and we''ll play, or you can''t¡­" Klaue smirked, eyes hard, "Ah, well. Let''s hope you can pay, aye?"


    Justin was well aware of the over a dozen men Klaue had around this locale. They would be useless if the man started something. Justin had something much more useful than bullets and muscles.


    "You''re exhausting." Justin said, after a moment of silence, "I''m here to make a deal, one that''s pretty beneficial to you, actually."


    "Oh, now you see, when people talk like that, what they really mean is they''re gonna bullshit me." Klaue told his guard, shaking his head. His eyes finding Justin''s again, a spark of anger in them, "I don''t like bullshit, Hammer¡­"


    "You love bullshit," Justin fired back with a sneer, he put his own hand on the table, grimacing as he felt something sticky, "You should listen to my offer before you cry about it."


    Klaue laughed, "True, I do love some BS between mates," He grinned toothily at Justin, "So¡­ Mate, enlighten me!" He spread his arms again, sticking his chin out, "You''ve got my undivided attention."


    "I want all your Vibranium." Justin began, only to get cut off by Klaue.


    "Not with the way you''ve been sinking your cash reserves, you can''t afford it." Klaue said bluntly, his eyes narrowing, *What''s your scam here, eh? These two ladies gonna what? Rough me up? Peg me?" He looked thoughtful for a moment, "I might go for that, just this once." Winking at Justin''s subordinates.


    "I don''t want it now." Justin said, now beyond irritated, "In two years I''ll have the ability to practically print money, I''ll have the president of the United States as my bitch by then, I can get you money, weapons, a pardon even, if you want it." Justin slammed his hand down on the table, inwardly shivering at whatever sticky mess now covered his hand, that''s what he gets for trying to imitate Klaue, "I can get you fucking diplomatic immunity even, if I push hard enough, even those Wakandan war dogs can''t get on your ass easily then."


    Probably¡­ They were a little crazy about Vibranium.


    Klaue leaned back, putting both his hands on his stomach, "You''re more well informed then you were last time I saw you, boy." He glared at Justin, "I don''t like that very much." He snorted suddenly, showing off his teeth in a vicious grin, "And I don''t deal with idiots, you''re offering me maybes and possibilities, what kind of fool, do you think I am!?"


    "Like I said¡­ I don''t want it now. I just don''t want you selling any of it until I buy it in two-three years. And I''m willing to compensate you, just for holding onto it until then." Justin growled out, having to resist the urge to have the man in front of him shot. The worst part was knowing the majority of it was an act, Klaue knowing exactly how to play someone, to make them give up more than they wanted. Even with it being an act, it still infuriated Justin - just as Klaue meant it to.


    "Compensation is my favorite word, now use some other nice words, like what am I getting, exactly? To piss off any other potential customer?" Klaue said, eyes intent, now that they were down to the actual negotiation.


    "An entire ghost production factory, the materials for two years of production. It''s off the books, no government knows it exists, you''ll have to staff it yourself, but you''ll have free Hammer weaponry to sell for years to come." Justin had used this factory specifically for when he wanted to sell to people he''d go to prison for selling to. In a few years the weapons would be obsolete anyway - once he got really started - so it was no big loss.


    "And I only stop selling Vibranium for two years, eh?" Klaue said, stroking his beard, looking tempted.


    Justin had offered this exactly because he knew how hard it would be to turn down. Klaue would make tons of money having his own hidden production factory. The ones he usually used tended to be very temporary, and he eventually lost money on having to abandon them when Wakanda sniffed too closely.


    "Three years." Justin countered, just in case he had a slow start in his technology revolution.


    "Throw in a night with one of the ladies too, aye?" Klaue suggested with a dirty grin. The fact he''d stopped being such an argumentative asshole, indicated to Justin that he was going to accept. Not that any of them would even entertain his other suggestion.


    "I somehow think they''re not interested." Justin replied, eyes cold. "Do we have a deal, Klaue?"


    "Alright, fine, I''ll do it, if you can give me that factory within the month, I''ll do my end of it." Klaue laughed, a pleased smirk spreading across his face, "I still say you''ll be bankrupt before you can ever afford my Vibranium, boy!"


    "We''ll see," Justin said icily. "Phantazia, do it."


    "What the fuck!" Klaue roared, as he was suddenly paralyzed from the waist down. "Kill them!" He snapped out to his men. Absolutely furious.


    His guard snapped into attention, raising his assault rifle, but unluckily he slipped on one of the potatoes, slamming his head into the picnic table on the way down, knocking him out completely.


    The only other two guards that were in immediate sight dropped their weapons, making exclamations of shock as their arms simply hung limply down their sides.


    Before anyone else could react, or come running out of the whorehouse guns firing. Klaue regained feeling in his body, the black arms weapons dealer raising his hand to stop his men from firing, not that they could. His fiery eyes on Justin''s. He didn''t look so happy anymore. No more jokes or stupid hillbilly acts.


    "Just a bit of a demonstration." Justin said, standing up, taking out a handkerchief to clean off his hand with a grimace, "If you fuck me on this, I will find you, and I''ll let you live, as a paraplegic."


    "Guess you have grown up, boy." Klaue growled, a hint of wariness on his face, and some measure of respect. "I still feel like it might be worth just shooting you right now¡­"


    Justin just sneered at him, "Try it then¡­ Do not make me come for you. Hold up your end, Klaue." He threatened, before he turned and walked away. He didn''t even flinch as Klaue executed Marcus, the closest guard that had slipped and knocked himself out, roaring about his incompetence, calling for his other men to hurry up and pack up. He gave it a 50/50 chance the man would follow through on his promises. At least with the factory, he''d be able to find the man to extract his prize if he failed to hold up his end to keep all of his stock for Justin.


    "What an unpleasant man." Phantazia muttered as she fell into step with him, Domino covering their rear just in case, guns out and ready.


    Justin grunted, dissatisfied with that entire experience. "Once we have his Vibranium, he''s no use to us alive."


    "Oh, something to look forward to!" She replied, a pep in her step.


    "Let''s get out of here before someone fucks a cousin," Justin ordered, completely done with the whole day. Fucking deep south.


    Fucking Klaue.


    £ª£ª£ª


    "Sir, you wanted me to notify you if Justin Hammer did anything else, and I''m quoting you sir, ''Stupid and unusual''.


    Tony Stark frowned, as he turned away from the schematics of the new missile he was working on, "What''s up, Jarvis? What''s the lazy man''s poor imitation of myself up to?"


    Jarvis presented everything to him on his screen, there was a lot of information, "I was not able to attain anything but basic information about these new corporate entities that drew sirs attention months ago, it would appear there is no information on them available. I was able to ascertain that Justin Hammer has now spent over 5 billion dollars in the last quarter on them, however I am yet to find a reason why."


    Tony hummed thoughtfully, "Little Justin is playing it safe, probably only storing it on a closed system, no internet access. Unusually competent of him." He flipped through the holographic files, taking in all the information available at a glance, "Did I go on a bender and conveniently forget about sanity, Jarvis?"


    "Yes, but that was yesterday, sir." Came the dry reply.


    Tony would have made a joke of some kind, but he was stuck in the puzzle of what kind of drug Hammer was on, because none of this made sense. He was bleeding money but appeared to not be actually doing anything with it. From a business standpoint it was madness. If he was investing, then by now there should be a sign of something happening. Jarvis not finding anything was not something Tony was used to. Hammer was usually boring and predictable, what was going on?


    "Jarvis, keep digging into Hammer, my business senses are tingling." Tony said, pushing the matter away, Jarvis would find whatever it was eventually, he had some wonderful science to do. It was not like Hammer was a threat to him anyway. He just couldn''t get on his level. And the man might have had a psychotic break or something, the way he was running his business right now.


    "That might be the lack of sleep and the uppers that you''re feeling, sir."


    "Don''t be sassy with me, Jarvis, I''ll ground you!" Tony called out, taking a sip of coffee, before violently retching, that had not been coffee in that coffee cup!


    "Sir, that is motor oil, it is not a beverage." Jarvis said drolly.


    "Shut up Jarvis."


    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin picked up the phone, back in his office after months of traveling across the world. It was time to set the stage for conquering the world. Not the plebeian way, with arms and blood and out in the open for all to see and take a stand against. No, he''d do it the proper way, with money, favors and blackmail, visible still, certainly - but only a fraction of what really would be going on to be seen on the surface - the rest buried in the shadows.


    The call is picked up on the other end after a few rings, "I don''t usually accept anonymous calls, this better be important¡­" A smooth voice answered on the other end, only a hint of annoyance filtering through.


    "Randall, how is my favorite chief of staff!" Justin said with faked cheer, leaning back in his chair, "How''s governor Ellis doing? A little birdie told me he might be looking to upgrade¡­." He tsked loudly, "I''m a little bit hurt you''re calling me of all people anonymous¡­"


    Absolute silence meets him from the other end of the line, Justin rolled his eyes, a chief of staff should be more adaptable and on the ball then that, he''d never make it as White House chief of staff with that reaction time."Randall, come now, no need to be shy." He drawled, "You don''t become chief of staff for a governor with presidential ambitions and not know my number."


    He was constantly being bombarded by staffers from this politician and that one, all vying for his money or a possible investment in their area to drum up votes. For all that he was a weapons manufacturer, even the most hardcore liberal Democrats that demanded the constitution be revised to ban guns - still came begging, hat in hand. Something he''d always found amusing. He couldn''t care less which side of the aisle someone was on, as long as they could be used.


    Justin would have preferred going with another candidate for president, to be honest, Ellis was just not a very inspired choice. But somehow the man did win, twice. In the midst of alien invasions and SHIELDRA and everything else. So Justin would have to make do. Trust America to continuously elect the worst person running - a charming societal trait. He''d take a run himself if it just didn''t sound so absolutely tedious.


    Imagine having to be polite to little shit holes like Sokovia, for appearances and diplomacy - when they could simply say do what we say, or else - waving a big stick. And see them fall in line, well the government anyway, rebels all over don''t really seem to have a mindset able to predict consequences.


    "This is my burner phone, Hammer. You shouldn''t have this number." Came the sharp and reluctant reply. Justin rolled his eyes, welcome to the real world, he thought sarcastically.


    "A burner phone, Randall? Someone''s being naughty." Justin mocked lightly, swiveling in his chair, already bored with this conversation.


    A deep sigh was heard over the line, "What can I do for you, Hammer?"


    Justin put his feet up on his desk, one hand typing on his laptop, sending instructions to Bakshi, so that he wouldn''t die of boredom while having to deal with political drones. "I hate to be cliche, but it''s more of what I can do for you. Or specifically, the governor." Justin answered, leaving it enticingly open ended.


    "Governor Ellis has not made a decision on whether to run for the presidency." Randall droned out, well practiced, very well rehearsed. So utterly boring.


    "That''s a dying shame," Justin drawled lazily, while rolling his eyes, even people that didn''t follow politics knew he was going to run, they were just wasting donors'' time by pretending otherwise."I was going to put together a little superPac. As a friendly favor, to help the good man along."


    "....What exactly are we talking about here?" Randall said slowly, trying to remain aloof, but Justin could practically hear him salivating already. Poor people were so predictable. Wave some dollar bills in front of them and they''d immediately put on a performance.


    Congress was nothing but a very high paid strip club.


    He would have done the same, working the shitty jobs he and in another life, pride only took you so far, after all. And now he could take advantage of those levers even better having both sides of the coin. He had better understanding of how to manipulate and understand people now, not that politicians counted amongst those hard to figure out.


    Justin continued to type instructions to Bakshi, only half paying attention to the phone call, "Oh, I figured 100 million¡­" He paused to let that sink in, a smirk developing on his face, "To start."


    "What do you want, Hammer? Even in the White House we wouldn''t be able to give you contracts ahead of Stark, that''s a non-starter." Randall said bluntly, the lure of the money was not enough to completely scramble his political acumen. Dumping Stark, as he was right now, was not politically viable right now in a NRA controlled Congress. Sure they called themselves Republicans, but the NRA wrote the checks. And they really liked Stark weapons, and of course the military industrial complex owned about as many congressmen as the NRA did, or more - as there was much overlap - and they were all in Stark''s corner as well, for now.


    They''d be all his soon enough, and he wouldn''t even have to lift a finger. Stark would hand them over to him on a silver platter.


    Justin chuckled wryly, "Randall, Randall," He clicked his tongue, amused, "Not everything is about Stark." He chided, "The man will spiral eventually, and one day you''ll come begging for me to take over SI''s weapons contracts."


    Justin could practically hear the silent skepticism on the other line. "You''re hurting my feelings here, Randall." He drawled, glancing at the laptop monitor, typing a quick answer, "I''m willing to bankroll your man into the big chair, I''m a reasonable man, here."


    "The governor is a reasonable man as well, Hammer." Randall said slowly, "What exactly do you have in mind, if not weapons contracts?" The brass tacks of politics, what do you want? and what can I get? Justin loved it, because it made people so easily bought.


    "I have a little interesting thing, that is going to be a very big thing." Justin said measuredly, "The patent office can be so boorish however, wanting plans, specs and all of that proprietary information that I just can''t have floating around."


    "You want to spend 100 million so that Ellis can give you a patent?" Came the disbelieving voice on the line.


    Justin was sure his predatory smile came through in his voice, as he replied, "Randall, I''ll completely revamp the energy sector with this, I can''t have anyone touch the tech, either a competitor or anyone capable of hacking into the patent office, it needs to stay in house."


    There''s a sharp indrawn breath, with silence for a few minutes, before the chief of staff of the future president of America answered. "Hammer¡­ I need to know that you''re not full of shit on that¡­"


    "If you''ve got investments in the oil industry, I''d suggest divesting, now." Justin said smugly, "I''m spending my entire fortune and the future of the company on this, Randall." He continued seriously, "I''m absolutely sure. And Ellis can reap all the benefits¡­" Justin let that trail off for a moment before finishing, voice hard. "If you play ball."


    He needed an executive order that would put his patents under his own supervision only - due to national security - with his company allowed to enforce it. That way no one could touch it, or steal it, unless they got it from him. And he''d certainly make that a foolhardy venture. More difficult than breaking into the patent office certainly. It would also allow him to go after anyone using the tech¡­ Or make them pay him for the pleasure (The look on Stark''s face alone¡­) Either way, having the president''s ear afterwards would still be useful as well - he''d certainly find something for the man to be of use for.


    "I''ll have to speak to him¡­ I personally don''t see an issue in your request." Randall said carefully, "It''s certainly within a president''s capabilities, and wouldn''t draw too much negative attention. We''d just place it under the umbrella of national security." He mused out loud, seemingly more attuned to the idea the more he thought it out. "I''ll get you an answer by tomorrow, Hammer."


    "Don''t wait too long, I''m a friendly guy, you know? "Justin said casually, "I can be friendly with someone else too. I need a president, not necessarily your president." He''d offered the carrot, but the best way to not be taken advantage of, is to demonstrate you have a stick ready at any time as well.


    ".... Understood," The answer came begrudgingly, almost like the man disliked being threatened, why was he even in politics? How did Ellis win with such an inflexible man as his chief of staff? "Just make sure you can deliver, or we''ll both look like fools¡­" Randall said with an undercurrent of discomfort, obviously still harboring some skepticism.


    Justin looked to the monitor, where the glowing words of his executive assistant''s latest reply shone.


    I''ve found Ivan Vanko.


    Justin grinned widely, "Don''t worry, the delivery of my vision isn''t in any doubt."


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 3: Happy Negotiations.

    £ª£ª£ª


    Nick Fury was far from happy. This state of affairs was a regular occurrence, to be fair. Mostly because the world itself seemed dead set on pissing him off - stumbling around like a drunk toddler, setting fires that inevitably only he was called on to deal with. SHIELD was becoming more essential for every year that passed by - two threats appearing for every one they neutralized.


    And the governments of the world seemed perfectly happy to stick their heads in the sand - when they weren''t actively fanning the damn flames. Fuck the governments, Fury would be happy if Thaddeus Ross stopped being such a giant pain in the ass. Did the man have any idea how hard it was to cover up for his jaunts across borders, all filled with collateral damage? It''s why he needed something like the Avengers initiative, at least it would cut down on collateral damage, right?


    He stowed the irritation as his next appointment walked in without as much as a knock, Natasha Romanoff - One of the only times a threat had successfully been turned into a useful asset. Actually lessening his headaches. Barton deserved a raise for that achievement alone. Not that he was getting one, Fury didn''t want the agent to get too smug. Now if he could do it again, maybe he''d get a pat on the back, once could be a fluke after all. He''d just order Coulson to do the patting - he had a reputation to uphold.


    "Romanoff." He said neutrally, a finger a hair''s breadth away from a button that would electrify the area in front of his desk, lethally for anyone else, but she''d probably survive. Paranoia was fully justified when everyone was out to get you. And there was always the possibility her turn to SHIELD was just a Black Widow long op. Doubtful, as she''d taken down Dreykov - but anything that wasn''t at a level of zero probability, meant there was a possibility, however slight.


    Damn it, nowadays he even had contingencies in case he himself turned out to be a Skrull¡­ Maybe if he was he''d get rid of the motherfucking headache.


    "Boss, got something for me?" The Black Widow said playfully, the woman no doubt fully aware of where Fury''s hand was, but likely approving of the caution. The woman seemed to get off on throwing off anyone''s perceptions, and her regular amusement at everyone''s caution wasn''t winning her any friends in SHIELD.


    Considering the woman barely tolerated anyone not named Coulson or Barton, Fury considered himself lucky there hadn''t been any incidents yet. Broken bones didn''t count, that''s basically playground scuffles as far as he was concerned.


    "Maybe you''ll get somewhere, the analysts can''t make heads or tails of it, so I''m sending you in." Fury said, sliding a file across the desk. Somewhat annoyed at the ease and grace in which the woman slid down into a seat and flipped open the first page, a raised eyebrow her only expression.


    "Justin Hammer? The industrialist, isn''t he simply Tony Stark without the¡­" She made a motion with her hand, "Everything?" Romanoff asked, while her eyes moved rapidly, devouring the file.


    Fury grunted in annoyance, "He used to be a hell of a lot less annoying then Stark." He gestured to the file, "Then he pulled all this shit, meeting with black market arms dealers like Ulysses Klaue, spending billions on factories and new companies that''s standing practically empty¡­"


    "Like he''s waiting for something. Preparing." Romanoff muttered, a glint of interest in her eyes. "He''s recruiting heavily." She noted, having gotten to the end of the file. Hammer industries and its newly created subsidiaries were hiring at an intense pace. Even the lowest positions come with heavy duty NDA''s for all employees too, which was odd.


    Janitors needing to sign three different NDA''s was new, even SHIELD wasn''t that pedantic. Their Janitors only needed to sign two.


    "Yeah, but for what?" Fury said seriously, his one eye meeting hers and impressing the seriousness of the mission. "What does Hammer know that we don''t?" Because damn it, no one spent that kind of money for no reason! And he refused to believe the man had a mental breakdown like the press was starting to say. In his experience things were never that easy.


    "Or what is he intending to start?" Romanoff said softly, "With the weaponry he has available¡­" She let the thought trail off.


    Which really put another point of view of why the man would meet with scum like Klaue, didn''t it? Fury did not need a major weapons manufacturer supplying terrorists - they were a pain in the ass enough without that kind of support. "Find out, get close to the man, do your thing, Widow, we can''t be blind on this one, Hammer is up to something, and we need to know, yesterday!" Fury ordered impassively, mind already turning to the fires fanning another Balkan war instead - Like anyone needed that, the place was already a mess, which was now his mess. The Black Widow didn''t fail missions, one way or another, he didn''t need to worry about Hammer any longer.


    It wouldn''t be the first time a CEO had to be removed for the world''s best interest. If Hammer wasn''t on the up and up - he''d have an accident.


    Either way, bye, bye headache.


    £ª£ª£ª


    "Bakshi, is this really the best we could do?" Justin said with disappointment, gesturing to the surroundings of the warehouse. Having just walked in with his retinue. "These are valuable and important friends of ours, this is hardly a five star treatment, man." The warehouse was dark and dreary and hardly could be considered clean, except for the sectioned off and sterilized center section - that was holding his valued guests.


    This was an unacceptable rush job. They should have been able to do better. After all they''d had to organize a prison break and everything - how hard was it to clean up a warehouse.


    "My apologies sir, our assets in the Russian Federation are limited." Sunil Bakshi said deferentialy, following a step behind him. Already tapping away at a tablet, "Once we move to the facility in the UK, the situation should improve markedly."


    ''I''ll hold you to that buddy," Justin said, clapping the man on the shoulders, before resuming his pace towards the center of the warehouse. Where a medical station was set up, the station was covered by layers of plastic sheets to keep it contained as best as possible for their location. All of it for treating Anton Vanko, a full team of the best doctors money could buy crowding the sickly man. His son Ivan sitting at his bedside holding his hand, his sharp eyes having been focused on Justin since he entered.


    "Ivan, terribly sorry for the accomodation, we''ll have that fixed by the time you reach your destination." Justin said confidently, swaggering up to the group of people, coming to a stop just outside the treatment area. "Don''t worry, your dad will have the best treatment possible."


    Ivan snorted bitterly, "Treatment no matter, can''t be fixed so easy." He let out a slow deep breath, a pained expression on his face,"Slow death."


    Justin tilted his head, making a considering noise, "Don''t be so quick to give up, my friend! I have something in the works¡­" Justin eyed the doctors, raising an eyebrow towards Ivan while gesturing to the side. The doc''s were his, but there was no need to share more than necessary with the peons.


    Especially things like Extremis and what he''d need Ivan to do. Those secrets were literally world altering. Something that would make earth something more than the backwater redneck planet you could roll up to and knock over whenever you wanted.


    Ivan gave him a long look, before he untangled his fingers from his father''s, and lumbered over, separating far enough from the bundle of people that they couldn''t be overheard. All the noise of the machines keeping Anton Vanko alive ensured there would be no eavesdropping. Justin eyed the prison tats with distaste, although the man didn''t have as many as of yet as he would have had in Iron Man 2, it still gave a bit of a thug look.


    "Alright, Ivan, look you''re a smart man, you know I''m not saving daddy dearest out of the goodness of my heart,"Justin said, putting his hands on his heart for emphasis. "I want you, I need you," His hands raised up to encapsulate the space around the man''s head for a moment as he exclaimed, "And that big beautiful brain of yours!"


    "What for?" Ivan asked suspiciously, taking a step away from Justin and his theatrics, "You break me out of Siberia, take my father, "He grinned somewhat grimly, "Very good for me, I think. But not¡­ So good for you."


    "Very good for me, buddy." Justin insisted, flashing a confident smile. "Look, Ivan, we grabbed everything your daddy had when we took him, we know of his collaboration with Stark on the arc reactor." He didn''t get to continue further at that point, Vanko immediately reacting.


    "Stark!" Ivan spat, face turning malicious, teeth grinding together, "Don''t speak to me about Stark!" his muscles rippled as he unconsciously flexed his hands and arms, Justin''s hand immediately rose up, preventing Bakshi from stepping in.


    Justin looked at his assistant and right hand man for a moment, a small smile playing on his lip, "Everywhere I go, this is the reaction I get." He said, splaying his arms out, shaking his head, "Tony Stark, universally hated."


    Bakshi chuckled lightly, while watching Vanko with shrewd eyes, "To be fair, sir. The man is supposedly extremely annoying. I haven''t had the pleasure of meeting the man myself." He admitted, eyes never leaving Vanko, watching for clues the man would move into action.


    "Trust me, It''s not a pleasure." Justin and Ivan said at the same time, one with a pained frown, the other with a dark scowl. Huh, has Ivan actually met Tony? That''s¡­ New. He''d have to make a note to look into that¡­


    "A man after my own heart." Justin said smartly, clapping Ivan on the shoulder, the man eyeing his hand with a dark look. Justin ignored it, the man would be eating out of his hands soon enough. No one could withstand his charm¡­ Or the amount of money he was fucking shoving down their throats.


    He''d seriously be bankrupt within a year and a half at the latest if his plans fizzled out. It might have been smarter to take a slower approach¡­ But well, Alien invasions. Plural.


    "What you want with Tony Stark, the butcher of America?" Ivan asked bluntly, eyes flickering back towards his father, for a moment.


    Justin smirked, "I want to embarrass him on the world stage, emasculate him, have him come begging to me¡­" He said with relish, definitely noting a spark of interest in Ivan''s dark eyes.


    "Not so easy thing to do." Ivan said distastefully. His posture was getting more wary, as he eyed Justin, and the team of heavily armed security he''d brought with him. Bakshi poised and tense at Justin''s side.


    "Ivan, Ivan, Ivan." Justin tsked, "We have everything we need to make the arc reactor work. And it will be you and your father''s name on it when we revolutionize the energy market." And his own, but no need to go into small details at the moment, it would just confuse matters.


    Ivan scoffed, "Not enough Palladium in the world to make work, no money for you."


    Oh, sweet summer child, welcome to the future! Justin thought, barely able to hold back a cackle. He grinned viciously, "Too true, but what if I have the blueprints for an entirely new element? One able to run an arc reactor easily? One we can synthesize ourselves, the entire supply belonging to us!"


    Sending Domino had been a brilliant stroke, she''d literally walked in and found the Stark expo model within minutes, a lucky distraction managed to both knock the cameras in the building out, as well as distract all the staff, as she rolled it out and made it off with it.


    How exactly a whole flock of farm animals managed to make it into the building and chew through wires and run amok, Justin could not understand, other than chalking it up to Domino''s powers being one hell of a deux ex machina.


    No matter what he did in his bid for world domination - hiring Domino might remain his best choice throughout it all.


    She and Phantazia were currently not with him for once, Vanko was hardly a threat without a suit, his ''normal'' security detail good enough for this meet and greet. Bakshi alone was a former member of SAS, and definitely capable of taking down Vanko if necessary.


    Ivan who''d been about to return to his father, already dismissive of the conversation, paused. Turning calculating eyes on Justin. "Why not do it yourself?" He asked, curious despite his obvious dislike of the situation. He was a proud man, obviously not too charmed with the idea of being bought. Justin would still win him over though.


    Mostly because he needed the man more than anything. Other people could take over the work eventually. But to start it, he needed a man who could do it - 100 percent for sure. He wasn''t above taking the man''s father hostage if all else fails.


    Justin chuckled, putting an arm around Ivan, who seemed puzzled and irritated at the action, "I hardly have the time to do all the science myself, buddy, and besides, your old man got fucked by Stark Sr, it''s poetic to have you come back and fuck Stark Jr over. How can I say no to that?" And he''d be sure to tell Ivan to double cycle, Stark was the gift that kept giving.


    He had plans for arc reactor technology. Forget the fact that it alone would revolutionize the energy market across the world. What about batteries built for and charged by arc reactors during production? Phones and tablets that never needed to be charged during the electronics lifetime, or at least until they bought the new version. Electric vehicles with batteries that only needed to go recharge at a Hammer owned facility every few years - or to just have to replace the battery now and then. And that was just the tip of the iceberg. What about weapons with arc reactor batteries as a power source. The sky was the limit. The phase 2 Tesseract guns could be humanity''s regular weaponry, with him as the only supplier. When aliens rolled up, they''d find it much more difficult to knock them over, and the world wouldn''t have to completely count on a few super humans who couldn''t even work together in face of extinction.


    And the best part would be - that Stark could never completely catch up on the market. Not legally. Because Justin would have the patent for the arc reactor - because the confident Stark idiots had never bothered filing for a comprehensive patent. He''d also have the new element that was going to be the solution to Stark''s palladium poisoning once that happened. Oh, to see him use Justin''s work to solve the riddle of his heart. Or the fact that by the time Iron man left his cave - he''d have to ask Justin for permission to use an arc reactor for his suit, even though he built it himself!


    Justin would allow it of course, while constantly publishing the fact that Iron Man only existed due to HammerTech. Oh how sweet it would be¡­ Well...  That was mostly fantasy... Tony couldn''t sell it any time soon, but he could certainly use it for himself. But the thought was nice to have.


    Stark could create a StarkPhone eventually that outshone what Justin could do, he''s certainly enough of a genius, Justin had to admit. Given enough time, he''ll knock something out. But he could not use arc reactor technology to make them last like Justin could. That alone would gain him a majority of the market no matter what gadgets Stark rolled out. And the more his technology entered every aspect of the average citizen''s life, the more StarkTech would be a niche market.


    He was an engineer, he knew the batteries would be a possibility, especially with Vanko working on it all already - well, shortly. It would only go further once he got his hands on some of the other useful people that could push his world domination further.


    Tony had been too afraid of what the world could do with his technology. A foolish idea with what''s out there. Justin would put it all out there. No one could make those batteries and other tech without his arc reactors anyway. And he''d make it a condition for any country wanting them - that they would be fully run by his people, and protected by his security forces, or they weren''t getting an arc reactor. Thereby safeguarding the tech, but mostly ensuring no competitor could use it.


    As none but him would be able to synthesize the element for them anyway, the world would have to count on Justin Hammer, they''d be dependent on him. All of them. From the United States of America to China.


    "What do you say, Ivan. Want to get some Nobel prizes while making Tony Stark eat shit?" Justin asked, a malicious little smirk on his face, "Just picture getting a nobel prize at the same time as we release the information Stark has been sitting on this technology for decades - his old man getting yours deported to continue to hide it from the masses, wanting it just for themselves." With the media, the first spin usually got the win - no matter if it was entirely true or not. And the media loved to dump on Stark to begin with.


    He''d have to spend some money and resources on sanitizing Vanko''s history, so that there would be no proof his winning scientist had been in prison for selling plutonium to terrorists, that would be bad press. But Russia was practically built for taking money to make things disappear.


    The growing grin on Ivan''s face told Justin he''d almost won the man over. Now it only remained to see how quickly he could deliver. Because Justin had no doubt he could. He''d managed a miniaturized arc reactor without the resources Justin had behind him.


    "What about my father?" Ivan asked, sobering slightly. Not quite ready to take the leap with the uncertainty of his father''s health.


    Justin waved to Bakshi, who obligingly held out the tablet, "Let me tell you about this little thing we''re working on called, Extremis. Hot stuff, like literally."


    As Ivan''s face lit up as he read more and more on the research and the alleged capabilities of Extremis, Justin knew he''d not only won the man over. But he''d sown the seed of complete loyalty. And if Extremis won''t be ready on time¡­ Well he''d replace every organ in the damn man''s body if he needed to for keeping Vanko happy.


    Ivan Vanko was the golden goose. Justin would not make any mistakes in failing in keeping him happy and laying eggs.


    £ª£ª£ª


    As he got on his private plane, Domino the only one escorting him, he felt very pleased with himself. Bakshi and Phantazia would stay with the Vanko''s for now, ensuring they got where they needed to go smoothly - the rest of his security detail remaining behind as well, as he''d pick up another team on landing and hardly needed them in the air. Phantazia would ensure nothing touched his golden goose or his sickly father. He took a load off, enjoying the silence and relaxed atmosphere as the plane took off, leaving the cold and sterile landscape of Russia behind.


    The facility in Britain was not only completely hidden. It was state of the art. It had better security than anything below Hammer himself. Including a safe room that could take a nuke. The Stark expo model was already there and scanned into the system, waiting for Vanko to take a crack at solving the new element. He had faith he would succeed. Either way, even without it, they could begin on creating and fine-tuning the actual arc reactors, both large and miniaturized. After all, they''d likely need a palladium style arc reactor to be able to synthesize the new element to begin with. Justinium didn''t sound so bad, did it?


    He''d have to begin the circuit of Senators and Governors and see where exactly he could get an Arc reactor power plant facility started - without actually revealing to anyone that''s what it was until 2008. It would take that long to build no doubt anyway, but it would be disastrous if Stark found out at this juncture. He''d have to find someone that really hated Stark. To ensure there were no faults, the situation in Colorado with Stark swooping in - couldn''t be allowed to happen in this instance.


    "You missed one doozy of a meet and greet, Domino." Justin said, undoing his tie and learning back on the couch. Phantazia having taken the woman shopping while he met with the Vanko''s, Justin had his entire security team with him in a secret location - he could afford to give them some time off.


    "Oh, you poor thing, the meet and greet is right now!" She said, laughing lightly, confusing Justin for a moment, until he met her eyes, which were turning golden, her skin gradually turning blue as she sensually sat down ahead of him, even going so far as to do jazz hands at him, a small amused look on her face.


    "Mystique¡­" Justin swore, immediately hitting the panic button hidden in one of his cufflinks. Domino and Phantazia were never getting time off again. How the fuck did she manage to slip into his detail without anyone realizing Domino was elsewhere.


    Mystique smiled mysteriously, "You know me by sight, Eileen was right, you are an interesting one."


    Justin forcibly calmed himself, he''d understood Phantazia had ties to the brotherhood of mutants, but he had not expected this¡­ in the back of his mind several strategies to neutralize his bodyguard immediately started percolating.


    "Don''t look so constipated, she didn''t betray you. She simply shared her new interesting employment, which made us look further into you. You''ve been a busy man, Justin." Mystique said, now fully in her natural form, a tantalizing smirk on her face, "Like what you see, huh?" She laughed a clear bell-like laugh at spotting his automatic once over, uncrossing her legs and leaning forward. "Justin Hammer, a mutant lover?" She teased, a dangerous, heated look in her eyes.


    "Mystique." A cold clipped voice rebuked. And Justin felt a chill up his spine at the same time as Mystique straightened up and gained an impassive facade which lasted for just a moment, before she winked cheekily at Justin and hopped off her chair, doing a languid cat-like stretch. Justin might have watched something like that with interest, if he wasn''t so totally focused on the man who''d spoken.


    Magneto walked out of the pilot area, striding forward with confidence. He looked very similar to his onscreen representation, old and dignified. Although there must be some fuckery with mutants dna or just him - because a concentration camp survivor shouldn''t still be looking as spry as he did. He had to be pushing 70, but he barely looked 50. Thankfully he wore a simple tuxedo instead of a battle suit, missing the customary Xavier proof helmet as well.


    For the first time since becoming Justin Hammer, he felt full of fear. He was in a metal tube in the air, with Magneto. The master of magnetism. His bodyguards left behind. "Erik Lensherr I presume." He managed to croak out, attempting to keep his cool.


    It probably didn''t work very well if the pithy look he received from Mystique was any indication.


    Magneto sat down, a chair casually ripped off its metal plating and zooming underneath him as he sat down, arriving perfectly in time. A very casual and effective power move. "Justin Hammer. You''ve drawn my attention." He stated simply. His voice stern, authoritative and to the point.


    Justin felt the beads of sweat materializing on his forehead as he tried to remain calm, sitting up more formally, wishing he hadn''t undone his tie. "I was unaware that I had interfered in any of your operations, if so, it certainly wasn''t my intention." He tried diplomatically. If he''d known Magneto was around, or interested in any of his latest purchases - he''d have backed off so fast he''d be on the other side of the planet before he stopped running.


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    Mystique laughed again, moving to stand next to Magneto''s seat, draping herself over him, her arms hanging loosely around his neck, "Oh, cutie, you couldn''t interfere with us if you tried." She said with clear amusement.


    Magneto inclined his head slightly, ignoring his ally, "You act like a man possessed, Mister Hammer. One perhaps blessed with¡­ A certain foresight." He said leadingly.


    Justin froze minisculely, before forcing himself into moving, his hands coming up and removing his glasses, giving himself a moment of time as he rubbed his eyes in apparent tiredness. "I move my business interests as needed for future innovations, yes." He said, placing his glasses back on, heart sinking as he realized neither of the two mutants would accept the answer.


    "Cute. B - for the effort at least." Mystique said flippantly. "I''d advise you not to lie again, hmm¡­" She leaned forward over Magneto''s shoulder, "Or you''ll find out how dying slowly as every breath is drawn out of you, feels like." She said, tilting her head cutely, winking at him.


    Justin eyed Magneto and Mystique warily, there was possibly¡­ Perhaps¡­ An opportunity here. As he tried his best to ignore that literal death threat and the weird flirty way it was delivered. Although he hardly wanted to share some of what he knew. There were certain events that would perhaps not be entirely disadvantageous to reveal. "I have received some future knowledge, yes." He admitted with a bone weary sigh. Better to cooperate slightly, then to risk pissing Magneto off.


    Justin was willing to fight quite a lot of people, his knowledge and resources allowing him to have an advantage most of the time. Magneto was on a list of - do not fuck with. With such names as Doctor Doom and Thanos. There''s a reason he was perfectly willing to let Stark become Iron Man, let that lunatic fight to the death with the villain of the month. So cooperation it was - to a point.


    "I thought so. You act like a man possessed with glorious purpose." Magneto said slowly. Forcing Justin to contain his reaction because that sentence struck a little too close to home. Does he have a pocket seer? That would be¡­ Horrible for me!


    "So no torture or death¡­" Mystique said disappointedly, acting overly dramatic, pouting, laying her head on-top of Magneto''s, resting it in his hair. Magneto not batting an eyelash, sitting rigidly, cold calculating eyes watching Justin.


    What the fuck kind of Mystique is this? Justin thought incredulously. Magneto seemed fairly standard from what he remembered from the X-Men universe or comics (Scary as fuck) - but Mystique seemed a little too¡­ Harley Quinn. It was throwing him off.


    "What event are you preparing for, I wonder¡­?" Magneto asked softly, eyes flashing, as he raised a finger, a sliver of metal tearing out of his chair, creating a simple needle that hovered in the air in between them.


    Justin suddenly realized exactly why he''d drawn Magneto''s attention. The man suspected Justin was preparing for war with the mutants! "Alien invasion." He blurted out, eyes on the spinning needle growing slowly closer. Now was not a time for holding back. If Magneto thought one of the largest weapons manufacturing powers in the world was gearing up to combat mutants he would die, no ifs and buts.


    "Pull the other one." Mystique said, rolling her eyes. "You expect us to believe that?"


    Magneto raised a hand, the needle stopping its slow death spiral Justin''s way. Mystique looked down at her ally and master, "What, Erik, really?" She exclaimed in honest surprise.


    Or at least it looked honest. With who Mystique was and her skill in subterfuge, Justin honestly had no idea if anything she was doing was just an act or not. Something that made him very uncomfortable.


    "Not many are aware, but there are not only aliens out there, they are aware of this planet. There was an incursion by a species called the Kree in the 90''s." Magneto said, piercing eyes meeting Justin''s, "Give me the details." He ordered sharply, expecting to be obeyed.


    Justin was confused as to how in the hell Magneto was in the know about the Captain Marvel affair, but that was for another time, he met the man''s eyes, steeling himself, "The information I have is about an invasion through a portal in 2012 in New York." Just don''t ask how I know¡­


    "How do you know that?" Mystique asked skeptically, "It''s very specific for an event six years from now¡­" She snapped her teeth twice, loudly. "Wouldn''t be lying now would you, Justin, I could do far worse than a love bite, you know?"


    Justin couldn''t catch a break with these two¡­ And Mystique was freaking him the fuck out, what the hell was up with this whole thing.


    Magneto tilted his head down slightly, eyes narrowed, "Answer the question," He ordered clippedly.


    Justin was in a bit of a pickle here. He could hardly lie and claim to have encountered a seer of some sort. Magneto would want them. Neither could he reveal all about who or what he himself was, that just seemed incredibly foolish - like kidnapped by Magneto and pumped for everything he knew, kind of foolish.


    "I received some very detailed visions about this specific event only while working on a new element." Justin let out grudgingly after a minute of silence, lying his ass off. "All my moves have been based on knowledge of technology and people I received for this one event." There, if they accept that¡­ I only need to reveal the events of the Chitauri invasion.


    "Why you?" Magneto asked, showing no reaction to his story, nor did Mystique who for once decided to be entirely neutral in body language and facial cues, which made things further difficult for Justin as he wasn''t sure whether they''d bought that or not.


    Justin spread his arms out, "I''m me, an industrialist able to take advantage of the knowledge to prepare humanity for aliens attempting to subjugate us." Please buy it¡­


    "Why not Tony Stark?" Mystique jumped in to ask, drawing an annoyed eye twitch from Justin. "Never mind," She corrected herself immediately, "He''d probably have ignored the vision as a drug-addled dream." She joked, drawing a tiny agreeing smile from Justin, almost against his will. He could always appreciate a Tony Stark put down.


    "The invasion is very localized¡­" Justin said slowly, sounding it out like he''d just thought of something, "Someone could gather a lot of public goodwill if they saved New York from an alien armada¡­"


    Magneto raised an eyebrow, a cold smile on his face, "A pitifully transparent attempt, Mister Hammer." He chided. "I will decide my own movements, I do not need your input." His eyes narrowed dangerously, "Only your full and truthful cooperation."


    No matter what he tried to hold back, in the end Justin was forced to reveal most of the actual events of the Avengers movie. Including Loki and the formation of the Avengers. Although he managed to exclude Captain America''s name. He didn''t need Magneto to somehow go intervene there. He''d put Tony Stark as a technology consultant, if nothing else ensuring Magneto had no reason to go clean him off the board or anything similarly catastrophic to Justin''s plans.


    So Magneto now knew of the Chitauri, when they''d arrive, where they''d arrive, and about Thor and Loki and who would fight against the Chitauri invasion, ( Generally, not too many details, thankfully he''d been able to hide the information about Thanos and the Tesseract as Magneto hadn''t asked, so he didn''t have to lie.) Justin hadn''t revealed that the invasion was handily defeated either, claiming his vision never saw a conclusion, just the beginning.


    He couldn''t risk mentioning the nuke, Magneto might intervene to let it happen. It wouldn''t exactly be a bad outcome for the brotherhood if the humans nuked their own people like that. The division it would sow would only benefit Magneto.


    Magneto calmly threatened Justin several times during the conversation, mentioning it like another man might ask if he liked biscuits. But at least the longer the conversation lasted, the more it seemed Magneto at least partly believed him and wouldn''t kill him needlessly.


    Eventually Magneto was satisfied, giving Justin a short nod, and thankfully for his blood pressure¡­ He returned to the pilot area instead of spending the rest of the flight hanging out. Which also made Justin wonder who exactly was piloting the plane, because surely it wasn''t his pilots.


    Not that he could exactly blame them if they had Magneto standing over them giving orders.


    He eyed Mystique who took the seat Magneto vacated, draping herself over it. This was going to be an awkward flight¡­


    "So, ever tasted mutant before?" Mystique asked suggestively, idly raising a leg straight back up, putting her foot behind her head, her eyes glinting teasingly.


    "Seriously, what''s wrong with you!?" Justin complained, making a gesture to where Magneto had just left, after threatening him quite clearly, eyes drawn almost against his will to her body and the flexibility promised within her movements. It was hard to look away, it was all literally on display.


    Mystique shrugged, running a hand tantalizingly slowly up her torso and the curve of her breasts, "It''s a seven hour flight, a girl can only read so many magazines." She suggested. "I could show you so many things¡­" She leered invitingly at him. Briefly her face turned into that of Pepper Potts, before bleeding back into her own signature blue hue.


    Justin gulped, certainly interested, despite himself, but his survival instincts screamed at him what a bad idea that was. "I''m not Tony Stark." He managed to grind out between clenched teeth. "And you just infiltrated my security and threatened to kill me!" Several times, actually¡­


    Mystique pouted, eyes alight with amusement, "And you don''t find that in any way¡­ Arousing?" She teased breathlessly, leaning forward, biting her lip.


    Justin firmly shook his head no. Doing his best to ignore Mystique''s tinkling laugh at that. He had standards. People threatening to kill him were on his definitive do not sleep with list.


    He had standards. Really.


    ¡­.


    After they landed in America, seven hours later, and Mystique and Magneto disappeared, Justin felt quite proud of himself for it all.


    He''d lasted a full hour and a half before he''d succumbed to the temptress and her siren song. Which had been¡­


    Well¡­ Mystique might have ruined sex with other women for him now, which was unfortunate, as he definitely did not dare to go anywhere near Magneto ever again if he had his way. Hopefully Xavier will put the man in prison before 2012¡­ Although then he faced the possibility the magnetism master would tell his old friend about the invasion, and Justin did not want Xavier anywhere near him.


    He just hoped Mystique had truly just been bored and wanted a distraction for a few hours. Because if she''d been ordered to seduce him, he''d see her again.


    And he didn''t know if he could say no to that.


    He pulled out his phone, he had a security detail and a pair of bodyguards to yell at severely. And they''d need to start using pass codes and secret hand signals or something to prevent a shape shifting situation from happening again. That flight could have ended a lot worse.


    And he''d need to call a discreet cleaning service for a rush job, because if Domino and Phantazia went near this plane before it got a deep cleaning - he''d never hear the end of it from either of them. As far as he was concerned this all never happened.


    Phantazia¡­ He''d have to interrogate her through Domino, but he actually believed the pair of mutants when they said they''d approached him solely on his actions drawing attention, not her reporting on him. The read he''d had on Eileen to begin with was that the woman would remain loyal once bought.


    Truly with someone like Mystique, they hardly needed a spy. Also if Phantazia truly had been spying, Magneto would have had more information then he had.


    Still. Best to put Domino on it, see if she''d be lucky and draw out a different answer. Trust but verify was a saying for a reason.


    What was his life even anymore?


    God damn mutants complicating things.


    At least New York was likely to be interesting this time around¡­


    He pitied the Chitauri really. Magneto would not be a nice welcome for them this time around.


    £ª£ª£ª


    2007 rolled in without much notice, Justin was still busy flying all over the world, making deals and setting things up for the future.


    Vanko had not managed to crack Justinium yet, but he''d managed to build an Arc reactor just fine - so the plan was still a go. Even without the new element, Justin started in on the plans for an Arc reactor power plant. Eventually breaking ground just after the new year in Texas.


    The new Governor loathed Stark for sleeping with his daughter, so Justin could count on his silence on the project. Other than the Governor no one else - outside Justin''s own company - knew what was being built. The Governor''s own people and the state legislature were only aware Hammer industries had a contract to build a facility in their state, labeled ''multipurpose''. At the same time, Justin went on a shopping spree across the rest of the states, drawing attention, hoping that if Stark was paying attention - he''d focus on that instead of some random building project in Texas.


    Ellis was also running for President now, so Justin made sure to spend, spend, spend on that, as well as making appearances for fundraisers and dinners. Let Stark think it''s all about politics and greasing the wheels, the more he looked at Justin, the less he''d look at what Justin wanted to keep hidden. And with how much Justin was spending people would be looking at him. And as long as they were focused on him, and not what his people were pulling off in the background, that was fine.


    There was a reason a majority of his plans and orders were actually put down in writing or on a closed internal system only - through Bakshi via burner phones, usually. He didn''t want to leave an electronic trail for Jarvis to find if Tony let him off the leash and the AI actually hacked into Hammer industries.


    He''d have his own countermeasures for that soon enough.


    Domino had cleared Phantazia at least, so Justin had managed to avoid that particular headache. Although new security protocols had needed to be instituted in case of future shape shifting issues. It also put into perspective how dangerously easy it could still be to destroy him, if any particularly strong villains or heroes made the attempt.


    Domino and Phantazia could shut down most attempts, but as the situation with Magneto showed, they couldn''t always be available - and likewise they wouldn''t be able to stop someone like Magneto raining fire from a distance either. Domino would survive it, but Justin wasn''t sure that luck would extend to him for such a barrage. Planning for Magneto was almost pointless, but he could plan for anyone else.


    He needed his own team. A counterpoint to the Avengers or the villain of the month. A team that would in itself prevent people from trying to get him. Something that would keep organizations like SHIELD and HYDRA from trying anything overt in regards to him.


    Justin was an engineer. And with the power of an arc reactor, and admittedly some help from Vanko in working out the kinks. He''d managed to create something to allow his team some firepower - and the start of his own eventual privatized Avengers. The Abomination had turned out to be an alright bloke eventually, right? So he might even be able to get his own Hulk on the team.


    He was almost giddy in excitement as he walked down the hallways of his special projects lab in Arkansas, two specialists he''d headhunted especially for this job following him.


    He turned to face them, walking backwards, almost bouncing in his excitement, "Are you excited? I''m excited, this is big, boys!"


    "I want to know what managed to earn me a six figures paycheck." Brock Rumlow said agreeably.


    Justin had literally poached him, minutes away from the man signing on for SHIELD, waving an enormous paycheck and high-tech gear in front of his face. The man was not yet the HYDRA brute he''d become without Justin''s intervention, but his skills and his obviously strong will would serve Justin well. The man that would have become Crossbones had survived a building falling on him and continued on, undaunted. Granted, as a terrorist, but that strong will and fighting spirit impressed Justin either way.


    They all had some skeletons in the closet, and he wasn''t even a terrorist yet, so no biggie!


    "Oh it will be worth it, you''re going to love it!" Justin promised, giddy, as he looked towards his other specialist, "Come on man, smile!" Justin shot him the finger guns, winking, "This is the first day of the rest of your life, buddy!"


    Frank Castle simply raised an unimpressed eyebrow. "I''ll smile once you''ve delivered, I don''t trust suits." He grumbled, hands in his pockets as he walked on.


    Justin chuckled but left the man alone. If Rumlow had an impressive will, it was nothing compared to the sheer determination of the Punisher. Justin had gotten to him before he became the Punisher to be fair, but that didn''t change the underlying strength of character and will. Obviously Justin would make sure the man''s family was protected to hell and back so the future issues wouldn''t happen, something which had bought the man''s begrudging interest, even if he probably wouldn''t face the same threat now - not that he knew anyway, what exactly Justin had saved him or his family from by changing his life. The money was just the cherry on top to really sell the contract.


    Of course the man was still serving in the military doing tours still in Iraq and Afghanistan when Justin had come knocking, but he had simply bought out his contract, it paid to have connections with generals and politicians. Frank Castle had been given a medal and sent on his way, right into Justin''s waiting arms.


    They reached the end of the hallway, a large vault door blocking their way. If it was slightly reminiscent of a fallout vault¡­ Well what was the point of having money if you didn''t geek out and had fun with it?


    Justin patted the door, flashing another smile at the two men, "Ready, gentlemen?" He asked, rubbing his hands together gleefully.


    "I was born ready, hit me boss!" Rumlow said with an easy grin, knocking his shoulder against Frank''s, "Look alive, Castle!"


    Frank sent him an annoyed side glance, "We''re not buddies, Rumlow." He cracked his neck, impassive eyes staring straight ahead, "Just get on with it, Hammer."


    "You have no sense of drama, man!" Justin complained, shaking his head, before he unceremoniously slammed his hand into a fingerprint reader, the scanner flashing green. The vault door slowly receded, the darkness beyond not allowing any clue of what hid in the room.


    Suddenly the lights turned on at the moment the vault door had receded completely, two giant spotlights lighting up two spots at the center of the vault. The three men standing at the threshold, as the room was revealed.


    "Behold, the Scorpion!" Justin exclaimed, flinging out his left hand, showcasing the giant black and dark green Scorpion armor, an arc reactor planted in its chest glowing brightly. It looked brutal, all sharp edges, bulk and lethality. A real tank - but with power of quick movement and the nice surprise in the agile tail.


    His right hand flung out dramatically, he was honestly having the time of his life, "Behold, the Vulture!" A gleaming green armor with wings was showcased, also with an arc reactor in its chest. The sleek, futuristic looking armor was still able to take plenty of abuse despite its lighter look. While the Scorpion was a tank of an armor, the Vulture was more a mix of the actual Vulture armor and the War Machine armor.


    Justin quickly stepped into the room, making his way to the Vulture armor, "This baby can tank anything below a fricking missile, you''ve got a plethora of miniature missiles alongside the wings and back of the suit, M4 assault rifle inside the left arm, a sonic cannon in the right, and see those compartments along the side?"Justin pointed to the sides of the suit up close to the wings, "You''ve got drop charges baby! Enough juice in them to eradicate any obstacle!"


    It wasn''t an Iron man suit, no repulsor technology, that, unfortunately Stark had patented already, even if the Jericho was not yet fully in production. But for a first prototype it was already dangerous enough. Once he got his hand on Vibranium¡­


    "Oh, this is so worth it¡­" Brock muttered, a wild look in his eyes as he reached out and touched one of the wings, "Terror from the skies¡­ I can''t wait!"


    Someone was excited, and it was Justin! He did a little dance on the spot, before giving the grinning Brock Rumlow a high five.


    Justin stepped towards the Scorpion armor, once he''d calmed down, leaving Brock to admire his armor and waving Frank over, "This beauty is built for brutality, a tank could ram you and not even scratch the paint on this thing," He knocked against the armor lightly with his knuckles, "You got arc reactor powered laser cutters in the tail able to cut through steel like butter, if you don''t crush them with the weight of that baby. Your arms can electrify to the tune of so many volts that anything you''re holding down will be barbecue! This suit can spin a tank on a finger like you''re a Harlem Globetrotter, it''s the good shit!" Justin said, a manic smile on his face as he stared at his creation. Sure Vanko helped, and he''d totally ripped off actual villains, but it was still his creation.


    Months of work, and it was all worth it.


    Frank eyed the suit, a gleam in his eyes, "What kind of fire power does it have?" He asked, laying a hand against the Scorpion helmet, his own face reflected in the shiny metal.


    Justin grinned rubbing his hands together, "This is just the first prototype, we gotta work the bugs out and everything, so if you got input, we can tinker and add more through testing. For now, it''s got 20 miniature heat seeking missiles in compartments on the back of the suit that can be controlled through the suits interface with computer assisted targeting." He patted one of the suit''s arms fondly, "You''ve got M4 assault rifles internally in the arms at the moment, I was also thinking of adding a shoulder mounted machine gun."


    Frank nodded distractedly, "Yeah it''ll do¡­ When can it take this baby for a test spin?" Brock joined them at that point echoing that request, a wide dangerously sharp grin on his face.


    Justin laughed maniacally, waving his arms around, "This facility is your new home, gentlemen, put them through their paces, suggest additions, we''ll make you dangerous."


    He generally didn''t try to act like a regular Sunday cartoon villain, but sometimes it was just so satisfying letting out a proper cackle.


    And standing in a secret facility in front of two power suits seemed like the proper locale.


    Oh how Iron Man would lose his shit when these two joined the stage literally right after his reveal.


    Justin couldn''t wait!


    £ª£ª£ª


    Natasha kind of detested Justin Hammer at this point, she usually didn''t have anything personal against a mark, but this time, she really did. She''d figured it would be an easy in and out kind of job, she''d infiltrated way worse after all. What was a corporation against terrorist cells and worse. Well for one, it appeared Hammer Industries took recruitment very seriously. As in it would be easier to get hired at the White House seriously.


    She''d tried to get in for a position relatively close to Hammer himself within his headquarters secretarial pool, to dig for information for one, the second objective being catching the man''s attention. Businessmen like that were always liable to set their attention on beautiful young women in vulnerable positions working under them. Her SHIELD provided references and resume had never failed her before, her alias pretty watertight for this kind of work.


    Yet¡­ Hammer industries hiring process was insane! It wasn''t enough to call her references and clarify her work history and who she was - which was easy enough as the references were specifically paid by SHIELD to provide cover with references to agents. No, the recruiter demanded to meet with each reference and be provided examples of her work. They dug into her employment history, her previous apartments, her schooling, they sent someone to check she''d actually lived where her cover said she had throughout her life from birth. At that point the cover began falling apart and Natasha removed herself from the process. Mindful of the fact that at least she''d kept away from showing her face to any cameras when interviewing and her resume photo was slightly fudged to not make her immediately identifiable with a simple change in hair color and glasses making a vast difference. A change in posture and the way she dressed would completely obfuscate another attempt, people weren''t very observant.


    Guess she wasn''t going to go blonde again for awhile though - that had been an abject failure.


    No one went that far for simply joining a company headquarters secretarial pool. Natasha pulled in another SHIELD agent simply to test if it was just her and she''d been made - but no, the agent was similarly examined under a lens, going back all the way to childhood. Most SHIELD covers could last through any electronic search and even a robust physical one, but for anything but the most high profile mission - they did not hire people to pretend to have been childhood friends and neighbors, faked physical copies of elementary school records, medical records and the like, it was just not possible for every mission.


    Natasha was forced to request exactly that kind of deep cover. Leading to her second attempt to infiltrate the company ranks three months after she''d begun the mission. Fury was not happy. Natasha was even unhappier, Clint was being unbearable at her failure. Even Coulson had made a comment.


    Natasha was determined to get this mission over and done with before she''d never be able to look Coulson in the face again. It was just Justin Hammer for crying out loud.


    Then, she got rejected. After five interviews, the most comprehensive background check she''s seen outside intelligence agencies and a personal meeting with the head of HR, after private investigators had combed through her entire fake persona''s life. Everything had looked like she''d finally be hired - then she received the email rejecting her application, stating she wasn''t the right fit for the company. Natasha was not usually very emotive, but she''d let out a short scream of frustration at that point. She could no longer try and get into the company because at the fifth level of the hiring process she''d been forced to subject herself to fingerprinting and a retinal scan. Ostensibly because she''d need that for once she was hired, to access certain areas, but also it of course gave the company another avenue to prevent infiltration. She couldn''t return under another alias now.


    She should have ejected when they asked for the scans, but she was almost in and she let her impatience get the better of her.


    She''d been forced to use a third deep cover and change her looks, again. This time giving up on any chance of entering the company. If she wanted to know what Justin Hammer was doing, she''d just have to seduce the man and get in that way. At least this time instead of changing her looks too much, she got to use the tried and tested Natalie Rushman alias. Maybe going more natural would suffice.


    Of course that presented another problem that added to her frustration with this mission. The damned frustrating man, (That she really hoped Fury would order dead, once they discovered what he was up to¡­) Was never in one spot for more than a day! By the time Natasha arrived in New York, he''d be in Los Angeles, by the time she made it there, he''d be in Bogota, then Johannesburg and so on and so on. Everytime SHIELD gave her the man''s flight plan, he ended up somewhere else, the man was more paranoid then most SHIELD operatives - his flight plan was never correct.


    Finally, today, she''d have him. Hammer industries was throwing their annual charity gala in London, and there was no way Justin Hammer would miss an event that was entirely about him.


    If he did miss it, she''d have to throw her hands up and crawl back to Fury. And the idea of it galled her something fierce.


    She entered the event center, wearing an expensive black number that left her back bare, a long slit in the leg and barely leaving anything to the imagination visavi cleavage. If she didn''t nab Hammer tonight, Fury would have her ass for the expense, the dress cost more then she made in a year. Somehow she didn''t think it would be reusable for many missions.


    Clint for one would look terrible in it.


    They had a pretty decent profile on Hammer, although the last year had thrown quite a lot of it out the window. Natasha had gone with her natural red hair tonight, letting it fall down her back, Hammer was reputedly a sucker for redheads, which worked to her advantage.


    To her relief, she spotted Hammer pretty quick, he was actually here. Months of work and frustration finally culminating in tonight''s op. And for once not surrounded by bodyguards, likely due to the high profile event having too many guests who''d be uncomfortable with someone so obviously armed.


    Natasha was going to settle her frustrations by hatefucking Justin Hammer until he broke his pelvis and fell madly in love with her, and then hopefully she''d get the pleasure of putting two in his skull in a month or two after getting everything she needed out of him.


    Natasha ensured her cleavage was on full display, dropped her frustration and anger behind a mask, and approached the man with a mischievous little ballsy smirk on her face. Hips swaying as her high heels clicked loudly against the ballroom floor.


    Every report they could get, said he constantly surrounded himself with strong and confident women lately.


    Natasha could do strong and confident just fine.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin noticed the Black Widow entering the charity gala with some amusement. She was a definite bombshell, drawing eyes in a designer dress that accentuated her every curve perfectly as she flowed across the floor like sex on legs, dripping sensuality.


    All of the rich brats coming to the event with their parents just entered puberty, He thought with amusement, watching a waifish heiress literally stumble in her heels and fall, jaw gaping at the woman slinking past her.


    She was playing it very hard, Justin couldn''t help but think. Taking a sip of champagne as he surreptitiously watched her, which of course she noticed, her path diverting his way.


    He wasn''t surprised. She was probably pretty pissed off by now.


    Having seen her infiltrate Stark industries in the second Iron Man movie, Justin had figured that she, or someone else from SHIELD, would eventually try the same with him. Especially with all the strange moves he was making.


    So he''d gone overboard on the security of the hiring process and the checks on his own employees. Not only to block SHIELD, but equally to stop corporate espionage. Once he was the only name in clean energy and weapons - he could practically print money. So he could afford to ''waste'' money on a very intense screening process.


    No one got hired - unless recruited personally by him - without a deep intensive background check. Which included hiring private investigators to examine their entire life. Looking for physical copies of everything, and interviewing the people that would have known them, lived next to them, taught them, supervised their first summer job. Everything.


    It cost him a bundle, even though only those that passed through the first few levels of interviews got the full experience. A fake cover wouldn''t hold up against such a search without being very good.


    In Natasha''s case, she''d done really well the second time, unfortunately for her, Justin actually knew who she was. So it was easy enough to reject her application once she finally maneuvered past the HR process.


    Hammer industries had already fired four employees actively selling information to competitors and stopped seven attempts to infiltrate - whether from intelligence agencies or competitors they weren''t sure, but their covers hadn''t been deep enough for his new security protocols.


    Then there was also letting Domino play darts with the list of new hires, everyone she was lucky enough to hit by completely random throws, were checked over extra thoroughly.


    With the London gala being the only event he''s guaranteed to be at in the next few months, he''d expected this play. He must have a death wish, but he was actively looking forward to having an enjoyable time and then reveal he knows who she is and thank her for her time - claiming that unfortunately SHIELD agents don''t make good girlfriends.


    He''d have to make sure there was camera surveillance in the room, her face would be hilarious. If he dared to go through with it. In the end she might actually kill him for that, Black Widow was an apt name after all.


    She finally made her way through the crowd, Justin casually swiped a champagne flute from a passing waiter just in time for her to arrive, offering it to her with a charming smile, "A drink? It must be thirsty work making every man and woman here swoon as you pass them by."


    The Black Widow accepted the flute and took a sip, humming appreciatively, licking a bead of the liquid off her lips, "Do I make you swoon, Mister Hammer?" She asked, a teasing smirk blossoming onto her face.


    Justin chuckled, clinking his flute against hers, "My dear, you''ll have to work harder to sweep me off my feet." He grasped her hand, lifting it to his lips, giving it a lingering kiss, "You can call me Justin, Miss?"


    "Rushman. Natalie Rushman." Natasha said with a sensual pout, "I''m a big fan¡­"


    Justin grinned, having to work at it to hide the underlying amusement, hopefully Natasha would read something else into it. He laid her hand on his arm, "Well for a fan, the least I could do is escort you, Natalie." He offered.


    She of course demurely accepted, leaning into him as they walked.


    She was going to be one very disappointed agent.


    Bakshi had been nagging him about taking a vacation - what with his constant 24/7 work schedule over the past year.


    So, anticipating Natasha''s play for this Gala, Justin had completely handed off all work to Bakshi, Vanko and Phantazia. He no longer carried any electronics with any company information or contacts on them, having a simple burner phone for contact with Domino who''d still hang around in his general vicinity as his bodyguard.


    For the next couple weeks, he''d vacation around the world, eat at the finest restaurants, stay at the best hotels. Attend the most amazing events. And not once, take a work call or meet any employees.


    How very frustrating for the Widow.


    At least he''d have such nice arm candy for his imposed vacation.


    Even if she''d probably be desperate to kill him by the time he was finished and she''d have to report back to motherfucking Nick Fury with absolutely nothing to report.


    Life was good.


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 4: Expanding the team.

    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin couldn''t help but feel a tiny bit smug at the moment. The last few weeks had been exactly what he needed, he''d been running ragged flying across the world and constantly working, constantly planning. Dealing with difficult annoying people, (politicians) that he couldn''t just kill without getting slapped with annoying labels of being a supervillain and such. So this vacation really had been a terrific idea, naturally would be after all - it was his idea. His eyes lingered briefly on the smooth and toned curves of his current paramour, the one who''d spent the vacation with him, truly the whole reason he took one in the first place.


    She was a masterpiece, sculpted to perfection, every inch of her not only beautiful, but lethal. It was like sleeping with a tiger. Knowing that in any moment of pleasure only death by claws awaited you. Not that he worried overly about death, she needed him alive to extract information after all. But really, he had certainly been moving in other circles in his old life, but even Justin''s memories couldn''t find anyone that measured up in beauty amongst the super models he''d dated. Mystique didn''t count, she could literally be anyone.


    And for the last few weeks, he''d had her completely, in every way. Some that ought to be illegal. Probably were illegal depending on what country you''d ask.


    The Black Widow herself. Although she called herself Natalie Rushman at the moment. He lightly let his hands run across her soft and silky, yet so deceptively strong arms - as she snuggled into him. They''d had a long fun night of absolute debauchery in the penthouse of Rio de Janeiro''s most expensive hotel - Justin worried at times she''d manage to shatter his pelvis with the way she went at him. The woman was a master at her craft. Still now at this moment, Justin could not say for sure whether she was sleeping - or faking sleep, to perhaps catch him making a phone call or a comment while thinking himself safe.


    It was all was amazing of course, he''d thought Mystique would be impossible to compare to for the rest of his life, but naughty little Natashalie measured up - Oh, did she ever measure up... Although the added thrill of manipulating and fooling the Black Widow was almost comparable in pleasure for him. He''d tried things he''d never even thought one could do in his past life, or his current one - the woman determined to weasel into his heart and confidence, through his pants - seemingly not able to say no to whatever he proposed. Either that or Natashalie was a kinky girl.


    They made them different in Mother Russia, he supposed. Gotta keep warm and all that.


    He was fairly certain she''d bugged his phone and every locale they''ve visited, from Milan to Paris to Vancouver. Wherever he visited for pleasure and relaxation, the spy likely tried to find whatever connection these visits had to his business or goals. Of course there were none. He hasn''t even had any contact with his people this entire time - by design.


    Poor woman must be getting frustrated by now. Weeks of laying down and taking it for England, so to speak - and nothing to show for it. She was good at her job though, Justin simply assumed she must be getting angrier, because he''d seen nary a sign. She really was a magnificent actress. If he hadn''t already had meta knowledge about who she was, he might have even fallen for her - she was that perfectly adjusted to match his likes. Confident and flirty, bit flashy with her body yet able to hold an intellectual conversation and willing to disagree and argue. Not only that but she had a clear sense of humor to boot and of course one couldn''t discount that she was a wildcat in bed.


    Very well crafted considering whatever profile on him they had would be outdated due to his¡­ Change.


    Slowly Justin slid out of bed, quietly stepping over to the balcony, uncaring of his nakedness as he grabbed a cigar, cutting the tip off and lighting it up, taking a deep puff. No doubt if she hadn''t been awake before, she would be now. Maybe it was time for the endgame¡­ He''d enjoyed their time together, but he did have work to do. He was starting to itch, being away from his company for this long. And while having fun times 24/7 with an Olympic gold medallist in the art was certainly fun - it didn''t feed his brain the same way that business and engineering did. Power was a drink one drank heavily from and was hard to put away for any amount of time.


    He''d have to pick a nice place for the ending. Somewhere with his people prepared enough that she couldn''t kill him when he dropped the bomb that he''d known all along about her, and that he had been stringing her along, using her for his own amusement. His own little revenge for her future stupidity, her helping to ruin the world.


    He also literally had recorder everything with the Black Widow now, that could make things interesting come Avengers, if he wanted to stir the pot a little. If Natashalie was even capable of feeling embarrassment. That''s a thought¡­ Could he drive a wedge already? Hmm. Make her look bad at the very least, certainly.


    For the first time in weeks, Justin picked up his burner phone, stepping over to the desk where he''d left it for the night. He could almost feel Natashalie''s ears metaphorically perk up, or perhaps he was projecting, because she''d never given even a hint to him, in words, action or body language - that she was paying attention in that way.


    Like he said. Masterful acting, truly world class. Which makes one wonder why she sucked so bad at it around Stark. Unless that was another ploy - to make her seem less dangerous.


    He dialed the only number on the phone that was actually real. "Bakshi." He said calmly as soon as it picked up.


    "Sir. Is the line secure?" Bakshi replied, Aware that we were in a communications blackout. Likely guessing the only purpose for my sudden contact.


    "It''s secure enough." He turned and glanced at the bed, "It''s time. Set it up, I''ll bring my date, she''s proven¡­ Interesting enough." That should grab her attention¡­


    "Is that¡­ Wise, sir?" Bakshi asked, I detected the faint amused undercurrent in his voice. It seemed I was not the only one that found this little ploy on the Black Widow amusing. Although as my right hand man, Bakshi obviously had some reservations about pissing off one of the world''s most famous assassins.


    Obviously the man didn''t know how to live a little. Or wasn''t aware of how completely she''d been tamed and leashed by SHIELD now. She wouldn''t give me a slap over the head without Fury ordering it first.


    And for all that Fury was acting tough, he was all about the status quo. He wouldn''t rock the boat. Not to the extent of assassinating him. Now Pierce on the other hand¡­ But he doubted HYDRA saw him as an obstacle yet.


    "She''s vetted enough, make it happen. Tonight." Justin said, taking another puff of his cigar. God, the finer things in life really were just ridiculously good to enjoy. He hung up right after, carelessly tossing the phone on the desk again, returning to the balcony to greet the rising sun, smoking in the nude. Internally making bets on how long the spy was going to leave it before she ''woke'' up and joined him.


    Twelve minutes later he heard the rustling in the bed, Natashalie letting out a cute little yawn as she tiptoed up to him, melding into him, an arm around him, enjoying the sun with him, just as uncaring if someone spotted them. "I''m surprised you have the energy to be up so early¡­" She purred out, a little smirk on her perfect lips as my body reacted.


    "You give me every reason to want to face the day, my dear." Justin said with a wry grin, blowing some smoke into the humid morning wind, "I have an important meeting later today¡­" Justin ran a hand through her vivacious red locks, before twisting her hair in it, pulling her head back harshly, leaning down and murmuring, "You''ll be there with me." Their position allowing him to hide the gleeful smile he wore.


    The power in his hands to do this to an eventual Avenger. It was exquisite. One that so eagerly fucked friends, colleagues and the world''s governments - in a future that wouldn''t happen any longer. Still, he held a grudge.


    She had no idea just how outmatched she was simply through metaknowledge.


    The poor woman.


    Hours later¡­


    Justin would miss these little times, as he leaned back in the limousine, just cuddling the exquisite woman on the way to a warehouse he''d bought on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro. The political climate had changed slightly, and the bribes and political favors needed to hide a remodel of it to his expectations was no longer worth the trouble. So he was fine burning the location for his little Natashalie and her SHIELD masters. He''d just tear it down after and build condos for his employees or something equally useless for the spy organization to keep an eye on from now on.


    She leaned her head against his shoulder, wearing an understated green dress that Justin had picked out for her. One that made it especially hard to hide a weapon in. Considering how much it showed, barely using any fabric at all to be called a ''dress'', she''d have to hide one inside her, if she wanted to get away with it.


    Which, fair enough, she might have.


    He wasn''t a complete fool. She would be¡­ Displeased in a few minutes after all. So keeping weapons away from her was only smart. He wasn''t going to go so far as to probe her for one though. It would reveal everything too soon.


    "Are we going anywhere important? Business stuff, baby?" Natashalie asked teasingly. Quickly licking her lips, a gentle reminder of all their fun times. She rarely did anything these last few weeks that didn''t allude to it in some way. Trying to wear down his defenses no doubt. Make him get addicted to her presence.


    It would have probably worked on anyone not aware of what she was doing.


    Justin patted her leg, lips twitching, he had trouble containing his amusement this close to the pay off. "I think it''s time you see what''s really going on behind the scenes, is all, my dear." He demurred.


    "You say it like it''s a big deal!" She said coquettishly, snuggling tighter into his side,"Is it going to be very exciting?"


    Justin let out a laugh, drawing a curious pout out of his fake sweetheart. "I''m sure it will have its moments." He patted her leg again, smirking, "You''ll never forget today, I promise you that."


    Of that he had no doubt.


    They pulled up minutes later. Justin felt the slight tension that suddenly appeared in Natashalies arm muscles just by him holding onto her arm so tightly to catch the miniscule hint - when his security detail met them at the site, Domino and Phantazia at the head of it. Domino, Natashalie knew solely through spotting the woman now and then on our travels - as she remained my bodyguard just with more distance during our¡­ Playdates.


    At least in person for this persona of hers. Justin had no doubt Natashalie had already devoured all of SHIELD''S information on Domino and Phantazia before her mission.


    ''Ladies." Justin said amicably, "Shall we?" He nodded towards the charcoal colored looming warehouse in front of them. The surrounding area looked run down, covered in graffiti and debris.


    Justin''s staff had kept his own warehouse safe, but now he''d have to buy up the whole area and get it respectable if he was going to make his warehouse into condominiums. Couldn''t live near all this trash after all. And the garbage around here was bad too.


    "Is that an offer for a threesome boss?" Domino asked playfully, eyeing Natashalie up mockingly, making the woman meld into him with an obvious attitude of mine. "Or a foursome, I suppose?" Domino asked Phantazia with a glint of laughter in her eyes.


    Phantazia just gave her a look, before sniffing and entering the warehouse ahead of them, my security detail securing the entrances and exits as we followed behind.


    "What¡­ Is this?" Natashalie asked with some confusion, and a hint of bite to her tone. Her head on a swivel as she took in the entire area.


    Ohoho, someone''s starting to pick up what''s happening here. Justin thought, as he stepped away from her, sauntering off to the throne-like chair that was the only visible furniture in the empty warehouse. He sat down on it casually, leaning back, "What''s this? You mean you don''t know?" He mocked, as Domino and Phantazia took their places next to his throne, ready to defend him if necessary, as a grin bloomed on his face, "Why? Have I completely fooled the one and only Black Widow?"


    It was interesting to see the change. As Natalie Rushman shredded all the soft angles of her persona, the stance and the cute little way she tilted her head disappeared - and transformed into sharp edges with a sense of imminent danger clear in her stance and movements, a predator instead of the silly but confident socialite she''d been, she was now Natasha Romanoff, her eyes hard and cold.


    And angry. Couldn''t forget the anger that was literally coming off her in waves.


    She was livid.


    "Who told you?" She bit out, an intense aura emanating from her, her eyes held murder in them.


    "Someone''s a little bit angry, huh?" Domino quipped from my right, waving a hand in front of her face, "I can practically smell the stench of second hand embarrassment all the way over here."


    Justin''s smirk got wider as his bodyguards got into the mocking as well, watching the tense spy. One that was well aware she was very much outgunned right now. Not that she''d attack him without orders first anyway. He was way too high profile. And she was too much of a kept animal.


    Phantazia scoffed, tossing her blonde hair snobbishly, "What can you expect, she must be mortified to have been on her knees for so long and achieving nothing in the end." She smiled coldly, "What an amateur."


    "So you knew all along." Natasha grit out between clenched teeth.


    "Yes, thank you for making my vacation so enjoyable. Let Fury know that I''ll definitely throw a couple million on hiring you for my next vacay as well." Justin said, waving a hand dismissively, "You''re a terrible spy, but you''re alright on your back." Perhaps it''s a mistake to mock her so, but Justin couldn''t help it, he just felt so powerful in this moment. He couldn''t wait to hold this feeling over the rest of the Avengers too... Well... From a different beginning of course, he wasn''t sleeping with all of them.


    "You''re going to let me just go¡­?" Natasha asked suspiciously, eyes flicking between his two bodyguards for a moment. Looking for the trap.


    "Natasha, Natasha," Justin tsked, shaking his head, "You''re not important enough to take down. You were a distraction for me on my holidays, don''t get a big head, darling."


    "Boss, that''s just cruel." Domino giggled, holding a hand over her mouth. For all that she claimed cruelty, the woman seemed delighted at the current situation. Even Phantazia seemed coldly amused.


    The Black Widow had a reputation amongst mercenaries like my two bodyguards. The schadenfreude was evident in this situation.


    "You think too highly of yourself, Hammer." Natasha said coldly, back straight and unbending. The way her fists clenched didn''t speak of such calm, however. He''d managed to unsettle her if she was giving off such easy tells. Or she was showing me what she wanted, it was honestly hard to tell with her, for all that Justin was mocking her, she was a terrific spy, he just had prior knowledge.


    "Well, when you''re this high up, it''s so easy." Justin said casually, snapping his fingers like he had a sudden thought, "How''s Laura by the by? You know I''ve always wondered if the reason you simp around Barton so much is simply because you can''t have kids, so you impose yourself on their family¡­" Justin''s grin turned slightly malicious as he saw his words take effect. And my starting gambit toward Hawkeye starts...


    Natasha¡­ No¡­ The Black Widow, took a step forward, unblinking eyes meeting his with fear and hate in them, "Who told you that name!" Her words snapped out sharply, reverberating across the empty warehouse. "Tell me!" She ordered, the threat of violence clear in her tone.


    Phantazia raised an arm, hand pointed in her direction, Justin reached out his own to stop her, "No, no need to batter down the poor little spider. She''s just a little shocked that her boss just can''t seem to protect the information important to her and her little clique." Justin leaned forward in his chair, meeting the Black widow''s gaze unflinchingly, "Don''t blame me for the failings of Fury, why on earth did you and Barton trust him in the first place, aren''t you supposed to be a spies? He''s the spy!"


    "You''re lying, trying to throw me off the scent." Natasha said coldly, "You won''t steal me away from SHIELD." Her eyes narrowed, "Where did you get that name?" She asked yet again, nostrils flaring angrily.


    Domino started to giggle as Phantazia rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath about deluded bitches. Justin shook his head pityingly, "Oh dear, you''re under the impression I want to keep you? As a bed warmer perhaps, but darling I don''t need you for any other skills, you''re overestimating yourself quite a bit I''m afraid." Teasing her is just too much fun, I''m having a hard time to stop myself from breaking out laughing maniacally. Justin thought, as he smirked, watching the Widow seething in anger.


    "Boss, want us to escort the itty bitty spider out of here?" Domino interjected before the Widow could retort. "Bakshi will be upset if you miss your flight," She reminded him playfully.


    Justin eyed the tense spy across from him, before waving a hand, "Take her away!" He''d always wanted to say something like that. Too bad it''s too obviously villainous to have a pit of lions or something to dump his enemies in. Or a gladiator arena for his enemies to fight in for his amusement. Ah, life goals. Maybe one day.


    As Domino began walking the spy away, Justin tossed a final comment out, with his voice raised slightly to ensure he was heard, "Also, if you want children, darling? I have a way for you to regrow ovaries ready soon, just a friendly offer. No strings attached." Well, no visible ones. He thought with amusement. He wondered what SHIELD would think of that offer¡­ And if Fury would become paranoid enough he''d believe she might be compromised. Oh well, it was a throw away offer anyway, if something comes of it or not doesn''t really matter.


    As soon as the Black Widow was confirmed to be gone from the vicinity, Justin returned to his limousine and was immediately on his way to the airport. His phone and laptop returned to him as he immediately set into contacting Bakshi again and getting updated on his businesses. He''d kept the Widow off her feet by dangling information and the impossible in front of her while not actually giving her any information. It was a risk to throw Barton''s family out there, but it would make Fury and his favorite spy team more careful for the moment.


    Not to mention his attempt at unbalancing the Widow even further.


    By the time they finally decided how to handle Justin - he''d be a world power on his own and untouchable for the likes of SHIELD. Let their own paranoia and hunt for a non-existent leak distract them.


    "Wait a couple of days, then send my tapes with Widow to SHIELD." Justin ordered Domino. He might not be trying to recruit her exactly, but he wouldn''t mind making her life more annoying, and make her even less trusted. Like everyone at SHIELD being aware that she was a glorified toy for weeks without achieving anything. And acting or not, it''s hard for people to venerate her as a professional spy and performing an act, when they know she failed - people believe what they see and hear over what''s said or reported. Let her coworkers start to wonder.


    Plus. It certainly put him in a positive light¡­


    Domino whistled, a teasing grin on her face, "Boss if I ever piss you off, please just tell me so I can beg for clemency." But she dutifully tapped away at her tablet, setting up my orders. As usual Phantazia was with the driver, more prepared to stop any attack in its place when she could see it coming first.


    "I thought you didn''t want to beg underneath me? Something about being a seven out of ten." Justin drawled misinterpreting on purpose, raising an eyebrow with a playful smirk on his face.


    Domino paused, seemingly surprised by his teasing, before she threw her head back and laughed delightedly, "Well, those videos were interesting, I watched quite a few of them live, you know. You''ve got moves, boss. But it''s still a no. I don''t shit where I eat."


    "I didn''t realize you had access to that feed." Justin said after a slight pause. Not aware anyone had been watching that closely. Sure Domino had been nearby, just in case, but he hadn''t expected a voyeur.


    Domino shrugged, an easy smile on her face, "You had super slut in your bed boss, I had to make do with the five finger discount version." She wriggled her fingers playfully.


    Justin shook his head, not able to hide his own amusement at this conversation, "Next time I''ll get you your own superslut." He promised, coughing to hide a chortle.  How do you exactly reply to an employee spying on that!?


    "A superstud would do as well." Domino said, biting her lip, "Like¡­ It would do really well." She scratched her nose, eyes flickering to the front of the limo. "Although maybe for Eileen first, to dislodge the stick out of her ass." The last part said at a much higher volume.


    "I can hear you." Phantazia said irritably from behind the partition between the front and back of the limousine.


    "Yeah? So?" Domino said blithely. A loud sigh was all the response she got.


    Justin shook his head, his bodyguards were getting weirder by the day, but he couldn''t say he had a real problem with it. It was better than complete silence with boring statues just doing their job. Some personality was always better. Besides, the better they like him, the more likely they are to stick around and protect him beyond the five year contract.


    The genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.


    Now onto the next problem on the list. One he had neglected, one he''d seen as not really necessary, because why would he need it? After all, he had his own team developing. Which goes to show that you should never assume anything.


    Magneto had taken hold of him without even having to put any effort into it. Showing how fragile he was still, shoving his face in his mortality. Counting on his team was all well and good, but it wouldn''t help if someone like Magneto decided to turn New York upside down one day while he was in the office. Which he was capable of.


    Justin needed to empower himself.


    Not to fight. That was for his meatshields and the heroes.


    To ensure he lived and thrived, no matter what.


    £ª£ª£ª


    A couple months later¡­ August 2007


    Justin swaggered into one of his most expensive and secretive facilities. He had quite the pep in his step. Not only was Ellis running away with the presidential election that was coming up in two months - but Vanko had succeeded in synthesizing Justinium. The building of the world''s first Arc reactor powered by the new element had already been on the way, just the final specifics on the new element not clarified. Now that it was, he''d have it ready for its grand opening.


    Vanko was already working on experiments of crafting new alloys and materials using the power of an arc reactor running on Justinium. Just a small one, while we were building the large ones for his own factories and for the state of Texas. He had a set up of several miniature reactors, which still worked better than anything out there. Once he got that down, they would hopefully crack batteries charged by an Arc reactor in the building process - and be able to hold the amount of power to last year''s before a recharge. Vanko was sure of the theory - he just needed to put it in practice through some trial and error.


    Very costly trial and error, but it would be worth it.


    He''d crush so many markets with those batteries. Communications and electronics for one, the automotive market, military sector, AI¡­ Oh, he could almost float into the lab. He was so happy right now.


    And of course the Vulture and Scorpion armors now had arc reactors with Justinium in them, giving them much more power. Opening new avenues to improve them. Justin would get Vanko to tinker on energy shields once he was done with the batteries. If Wakanda could do it just by having Vibranium up their ass. Vanko could figure it out with arc reactor power too.


    "Maya, Helen!" Justin exclaimed as he walked into the testing lab for Extremis. "You ladies are as radiant as ever, you make a guy jealous here, what with the brains and beauty wrapped together!"


    The testing lab''s main feature was a cradle in the middle of the floor on the bottom level. Helen Cho had, upon seeing what Maya Hansen was working on - taken her doctorate to an online setting while she moved to Maya to combine her theoretical cradle technology with Maya''s Extremis. With Vanko''s help on the technical parts and Maya and Helen on the biological, the project had accelerated at a prodigious rate.


    Justin hadn''t anticipated this project to bear fruit until a year from now at least. So needless to say he was ecstatic.


    Justin had underestimated Helen. The human trials hadn''t even made her flinch; she''d been so excited about the possibility of Extremis. Granted they''d been volunteers and no one had exploded, so she hadn''t had to be completely tested - but he was happy she wasn''t too goody-two shoes. The not so voluntary trials weren''t held anywhere near Helen anyway.


    "Mister Hammer! You flatter us, It''s only through your help that we have managed to get so far." Helen gushed, a tint of red on her cheeks, bangs framing her cute face as she rushed around in a white lab coat, making final preparations. So she was still adorable it seemed. Justin chuckled as he gave her a little wave.


    "Don''t waste time on pleasantries, make sure the cradle is ready!" Maya snapped at Helen, her face intensely focused, hair disheveled like she hadn''t slept at all, wearing a wrinkled lab coat. "Oh, hey Justin." She threw out distractedly, obviously seeing no need to waste time on pleasantries.


    Justin smirked, standing with his retinue at the ledge overlooking the cradle and the vials of Extremis. "Maya has the right idea, Helen. I thought I said to call me Justin, you''re going to hurt my feelings here, darling."


    "O-oh, of course¡­ Justin¡­" Helen said, before rushing to do as Maya ordered, while still glancing back at Justin periodically.


    Domino leant over the railing, snorting. "That little fawn down there still would love working under you, boss."


    "She can hear you." Helen said, sending a weak glare over her shoulder up at a smirking Domino. Blushing as she caught Justin''s eyes as well, quickly returning to her work, nervously adjusting her hair.


    "Fuck already if you''re going to do it." Maya stated bluntly, "My research is on the cusp of implementation after reaching a complete success, get it out of your system."


    "Maya! That''s¡­ T-that''s unprofessional¡­" Helen mumbled a very weak protest as she glanced his way again.


    Oh, boy¡­ Justin thought, ignoring Domino''s teasing smirk. I have to keep reminding myself that sleeping with employees is bad. Sleeping with scientists that will make you billions is even worse. Stay strong.


    Maya Hansen lifted a vial of Extremis. Looking entranced as she stared at the orange fiery looking liquid. "All that matters is the science, Helen. If the boss wants to bend me over the entire time I wouldn''t care as long as I got to keep working."


    Noted. Justin thought with amazement, he''d never seen Maya so¡­ Extra. It wasn''t like Maya was unattractive. Although he''d probably not bother, he still didn''t want to mess with his scientists. It just seemed like he could only lose in that situation.


    "What the fuck kind of conversation is this?" Frank Castle grumbled from behind Justin and Domino. The man looked gruff, bored and unimpressed to be here. He''d had to be practically torn away from his armor, he''d been obsessed with it since his first time.


    Brock Rumlow on the other hand seemed relaxed, even though his eyes were sharp and taking in everything around them. "The super soldier serum, boss?" He asked with anticipation.


    Their presence and that of a serum certainly had that connotation didn''t it? Frankly, although he had people researching the super soldier serum as well, it was not high on his priorities. It wasn''t really that important.


    Justin chuckled, almost vibrating at the railing as he watched Maya and Helen bicker lightly as they went over the last checks. "Not quite. Extremis just kept misfiring with the super strength aspect in it. Maya and Helen finally found success when I ordered them to discard that aspect and concentrate on the more important one."


    "More important than super soldiers?" Frank said, stepping forward, a spark of interest in his stance.


    Justin grinned, "Regeneration." He breathed out, fingers twitching on the railing. Domino gave him an amused look, shaking her head.


    Brock hummed, "What kind of regeneration are we talking about, boss?"


    Justin turned slightly to meet the Vulture''s eyes, "The kind where cutting you in half is a minor inconvenience."


    "Shit¡­ That is better than super strength." Brock acknowledged, sharing a covetous look with Frank, "That what we here for?"


    "Amongst other tests, yes." Justin said. The two men backed off to hold a quiet conversation between themselves. Over the last few months of working out the kinks in their armors, they''d managed a good working relationship even if they couldn''t quite be called friends yet. They''d receive the full Extremis treatment. He couldn''t have his team die. It would definitely be annoying to recruit replacements.


    "That offer on for everyone?" Domino asked, faking nonchalance. Eyes locked on the Extremis vials with curiosity.


    "Not yet." Justin said, continuing on before she could get the wrong idea, "We need mutant test subjects before we can adapt Extremis to make sure you don''t explode or something, we don''t know enough about the X-gene and how Extremis would react to it." She''d probably still be fine just through luck, but Justin wasn''t willing to risk it.


    They could blow up a few dozen mutants first and make it work. After all there were a bunch of them that had entirely useless powers.


    "Huh, need me to round some people up?" She volunteered.


    Justin turned to face her fully, considering it. "If it can be done quietly, and the people for the first trials are¡­ Expendable." He said carefully.


    Domino shrugged, "Everyone has people in their life that''s kind of expendable." She said, leaving it at that.


    "Mister Hammer. We''re ready." Helen called up. One of the military volunteers already laying in the cradle, hooked up. This particular volunteer was missing both legs. He''d already accepted a post in his security team if this worked. Justin certainly wouldn''t have let him walk away afterwards.


    It''s one of the reasons he was so sure his arc reactors taking over the power grid of everywhere - as well as his Extremis initiative - would work. He''d practically have impossible to kill security teams protecting them. Shoot them all you want, they''ll still get up and shoot you back. His facilities would be safe. Supervillains, Heroes, SHIELD, HYDRA. No one will be able to even touch his facilities after this rolled out.


    Everyone watched in anticipation as Maya and Helen hooked up Extremis to the IV. The cradle hummed as it was initialized, the technology helping direct Extremis in a way that required less power in the serum itself for the first activation. That lack of enough direction being one of the reasons the serum was usually so explosive.


    "Ten seconds until full effect." Maya called out, barely breathing; she was following the information on the screens attached to the cradle with fanatic eyes.


    Ten seconds later everyone in the viewing gallery drew in a breath as the man''s legs began growing. Within a minute the man in the cradle had a fully functioning new set of legs. Justin leaned back slightly, letting out a shaky breath. It worked. He''d read the reports. He knew it did already. But seeing it¡­


    "Sir¡­ I''m yours until the end of time. You want me to kill someone, I''ll kill them, you want me to blow up the president, I''ll do it." The man in the cradle swore, staring down at his new legs with tears in his eyes.


    Ah, loyalty¡­ Extremis will be very profitable for me. Justin thought smugly. "The incoming president is my buddy, actually, so we''ll put a pin in any bombings, I look forward to you being on my team, Arthur."


    "Just for demonstration, do you volunteer for a damage test for Mister Hammer to see?" Maya asked Arthur, the navy seal veteran.


    "Anything, I''ll do anything, fire away." He said firmly.


    Without a warning Maya ran a scalpel over his throat, cutting it, the wound healed before our eyes before there''s more than a few drops of blood escaping the cut.


    "Wow, that feels weird¡­" Arthur mumbled, Helen loosening his bindings, preparing to let him out of the cradle.


    Justin waited for the man to be escorted out. Not everyone working for him needed the full picture. He walked down to the floor, shaking both Maya and Helen''s hands vigorously. "A Nobel prize is coming your way soon." He promised. "The other samples¡­ They work?"


    Maya led him over to a cabinet holding a row of vials, gesturing to them. "As you asked, we have several different weaker strains of Extremis."


    Domino raised a surprised eyebrow, leaning forward to peer at the vials, her own face reflected from the glass."Why would you want it weaker?" She asked, confused.


    Justin rubbed his hands together in glee, "Economics my dear. What would we gain from making everyone on the planet able to heal from being cut in half?" He queried.


    "A lot of money." Domino joked, half serious. But she was thinking, her eyes flying rapidly across the vials as she thought it over.


    Justin waved that joke away with a snort, "Domino, I''m not selling this to hospitals or anything. There will be Hammer Clinics across the world, protected by my security teams, each having cradles and weaker versions of Extremis available. The weakest version of Extremis will basically make you immune to getting normal sicknesses. No flu or cold or std for you, ever. Everyone on the planet will line up to pay for the treatment."


    "Jesus¡­" Domino said, starting to realize just exactly what a money maker this would be. Maya had already wandered off to check test results while Helen watched us eyes big, apparently not herself having realized fully what I''d planned.


    "The next stage of Extremis will cure your harder to treat genetic diseases as well as your cancers and kidney disease and such, not for life mind you, just what they''re suffering from at that point of time." Justin grinned sharply, "At an obviously premium cost." Justin wouldn''t only murder the pharmaceutical and medical sector with this, but there would be millions of people who wouldn''t be able to afford the treatments. At which point they''d find out that anyone working for Hammer industries got them for free. The amount of loyal people he''ll draw in will be mind boggling.


    Helen gasped as she realized what Justin had long ago, "You''ll¡­ Be the only name in pharmaceuticals¡­" She practically had stars in her eyes as she stared at him. "You''ve cured disease!"


    Justin smiled, accepting the plaudits, it was true after all. Without him they wouldn''t have gotten to this point. Extremis would have been shelved after Tony used it minimally to help just himself. Like he does with everything else.


    "And lastly¡­ The most expensive level, curing limb loss, dementia and other neurological or wasting diseases¡­ One that isn''t for life, a one time fix¡­" Justin said, caressing the vials in front of him. He could skip arc reactor technology entirely and still become the richest man alive with this.


    "The most expensive? Boss, so you''re not even going to the military with the full regeneration version?" Domino asked, looking thoughtful.


    Justin shook his head slowly. "No¡­ I might cut deals and allow their bases - including temporary ones in war settings, to have my people running a cradle for their men with the limb regeneration level Extremis. They''ll be charged for every dose, no permanent enhancement." He did not want people like Ross with an army of enhanced people, even if it was only for healing.


    If he and the Avengers couldn''t keep back alien invasions, he might reassess. But right now there''s no benefit for him to go that route. Simply economically it made no sense to sell the full Extremis to the military and never earn another dime on that soldier. Because he could sell the milder version and get paid every single time they got badly sick or injured.


    "Fuck¡­ The world is going to change massively in a day¡­" Domino said, crossing her arms, tapping her foot nervously on the floor, she side-eyed him with wide eyes, "You''re scary, boss."


    "He''s brilliant!" Helen defended. Blushing as Domino started laughing at her. Teasing her about her crush.


    Justin left them to it. His eyes on Maya. It was time. "Maya, prepare a full version of Extremis." He started to unbutton his shirt. "Make it three, if Frank and Brock feel like they''ll join me?"


    "Fuck yes, boss!"


    "...Can my family get the same level of protection?"


    Not hard to figure out who said what. Justin smiled at Frank, giving him a thumbs up, "Everyone working for me gets free level one and two treatments anyway, but since you''re on my team I''ll extend the full treatment to your family as well."


    "We''ll have to test it on babies and children before it''s safe to give to any kids he has. Although we''ve found that a pregnant mother does not leave any immediately visible negative effects on the fetus if injected with Extremis." Maya said, as usual only interested in the scientific aspect.


    "Your wife right away, of course, Frank. Anyone else as soon as safely possible." Justin said magnanimously.


    That sound, it''s the sound of Frank Castle becoming fully loyal and willing to do anything for him.


    Fuck he''s on a roll today.


    An hour later¡­


    He would have expected Extremis to burn. But it had been an easy process, no worse than getting a flu shot really. Good sign for the commercial aspect. He''d borrowed a scalpel from Maya and couldn''t stop cutting his forearm and staring in fascination as the wound immediately sealed up. No fire. No glowy orange stuff to make it clear what was happening. Just low key but super effective healing.


    He''d taken the step, the first step in protecting himself from the likes of Magneto. Although it wasn''t perfect. They''d done a lot of testing. These tests were only performed by Maya''s section. To see how long it lasted.


    One of the men tested survived for four days of being shot before Extremis started getting so slow it didn''t heal him fast enough to survive. And men had been killed in every way imaginable, but only complete decapitation worked to actually kill them dead. Even blowing a hole in your torso or removing the heart wasn''t enough anymore, the body regenerated even that. Helen Cho and the cradle had really managed to push Maya''s research to its limits.


    And now he had it flowing in his veins. He could not get sick, his mind would never fall to dementia. He could hardly be killed unless in very specific circumstances.


    In short. He was having a very good day.


    As Frank exited the cradle, the day''s work was done. His two first team members were both now supremely hard to kill.


    Helen Cho approached him, looking hesitant, it was cute how flustered she was in his presence. She was still young, he supposed. "Helen, you''ve done more than I could have ever asked, ask for anything, if it''s humanly possible I will deliver." Justin said grandly.


    "...Anything?" Helen asked, a full blush breaking out on her face.


    Domino sent him two thumbs up with a huge grin from behind the girl.


    "I did say anything." Justin said, having a feeling where this was going.


    ¡­.


    Thor missed out - not taking advantage in Age of Ultron.


    £ª£ª£ª


    September 11th 2007, New York.


    Justin was bored. So incredibly bored. The presidential election was less than a month away. Due to his money flowing like water for Ellis, he had a lead of twenty percent in the polls, a ridiculous lead. One that couldn''t be surpassed in time.


    Ellis would be president. And Justin would have his patents. His free hand in using them, and a fast track process through the FDA for Extremis. Ellis didn''t know it yet, but Justin owned him. One favor would become many. He''d become so flush with money and Influence that even the president of the United States of America wouldn''t dare argue with him. Becoming the only name in both the Energy and Pharmaceutical sectors, plus his future dominance of the Military arms sector¡­


    ¡­If only it wasn''t so boring. Why on earth Ellis invited him to a party/charity gala on this day of all days. Everyone had to fake a solemn look because of the date. That was no way to party.


    Phantazia was his ''date'' and only bodyguard tonight. Domino did need days off now and then, and he felt safer with Extremis in his veins anyway.


    Justin sighed, shoulders hunching down as he glared at Phantazia sliding into the seat next to him. "What do you want, Mystique?"


    He really needed to stop giving Domino days off¡­


    She looked taken aback, before pouting, "How did you know?"


    "I have protocols in place for shapeshifters now, obviously you talked to Eileen and she let you come over without giving you the way to do it undetected." Justin smirked at her playfully. "Someone must have annoyed her last time around¡­"  He''d told Phantazia to let her through if it happened again anyway, as long as she was alone, made it easier to spot her coming...


    "It''s no fun if you ruin the game from the start." Mystique whined, looking petulant. No doubt because she couldn''t switch appearance in this very public setting.


    Justin waved down the bartender, letting Mystique pick herself a drink on his dime. Naturally she picked the most expensive thing they had.


    "How nice of you." She cooed, hugging the bottle against her cheek.


    "Yes, I offered you a drink." Justin said dryly, not really caring. He''d soon be swimming in money.


    Mystique sniffed, her constant smile looking weird on Eileen''s face. "I can drink the whole bottle in one go without needing to take a breath."


    "A true connoisseur, chugging it is usually how people drink two hundred thousand dollars." Justin drawled sarcastically.


    Thankfully Ellis would soon hold his speech at which point Justin could leave without looking like he was snubbing the candidate he spent over a hundred million dollars on. Well his superPac anyway, but it''s basically the same thing with a thin veneer over it.


    "So¡­ You''re pretty close to the incoming prez, huh?" Mystique said leaning in close, a flirty smile on her face.


    "So that''s your game¡­ Erik, doesn''t want to get rid of me anymore?" Justin asked, being careful to not mention Magneto in public. Who knew what would be bugged here, or how many of the servers or bartenders were actually spies. Damn SHIELD and alphabet agencies¡­


    "Erik thinks there could be a lot of cooperation between us." Mystique said easily, leaning back in her bar stool, still caressing her expensive bottle of alcohol.


    "This Isn''t the place to discuss that." Justin said long sufferingly. Save me from dealing with ballsy mutants. This place is literally filled with agents, police and politicians. What a place to approach me in¡­


    Mystique raised an amused eyebrow, "This is just a courtesy call, letting you know so that you can think of it, we''ll be in touch." She slid off the bar stool smoothly, giving him a peck on the cheek. This really wasn''t going to help with the media, they were already constantly saying he was sleeping with his bodyguards..


    He''d get a Tony Stark level reputation soon if that kept up.


    "Don''t lock your hotel room door tonight." She whispered into his ear, biting it lightly, before she walked away, extra sway in her hips.


    Justin smiled amusedly watching her walk away. A lot of men would face a blizzard comparatively when Phantazia returned to be swarmed by men due to Mystique''s show with her body.


    He took his phone out, dialing Bakshi, speaking immediately, "My hotel room is compromised, book me another one across town under an assumed name." No way he was getting any closer to Mystique or Magneto then he had to.


    "Yes sir. And your current room?" Bakshi asked, "Do we need to¡­ Cause an incident?"


    Justin was briefly tempted to get Mystique in trouble, but it really wasn''t worth the potential hassle from Magneto, not to mention that Mystique and her shapeshifting could cause endless issues for him if she got pissed enough. "No, just give the room to some nobody."


    He hung up, and noticed with some relief that Ellis was getting up to speak. Good. He could leave soon. Then he saw it.


    Fuck. Why?


    Tony Stark, moving his way, trademark sunglasses on. They were indoors, what a fop.


    "Anthony, I thought you supported the other guy?" Justin said resignedly, getting up to shake the man''s hand to at least attempt some civility in front of so many influential people.


    "Justine! Just the tiny man I''ve looked all over for, you''ve been busy, I keep trying to schedule a game of racquetball or something, but I can''t seem to find you." He swiped his glasses off, hanging them off the neck of his suit, "What''s up with that?"


    "Some of us work for a living, Stark."


    "Work, really? That''s what you''re going with. Okay, alright." Tony Stark said, gesturing at him with large motions, obviously having worked pretty hard to get drunk. "No homo, but you do look better, what''s the trick? Water polo? Competitive tea drinking?"


    "Did you want something, Stark." Justin said lowly, leaning away from the expansive gestures of the man. Fantastic, he got the man in one of his manic moods.


    "Yeah, I want something. I want to know what you''re up to. You''re buying the farm, the pigs, the nuts and bolts, all of it, but you''re not doing anything with it. What''s up?" Tony said, clapping him on the shoulder, his breath stinking of booze. "I just wanna, you know-" He cut off, a weird expression on his face, "Hang on, I gotta piss. Don''t go anywhere." He put his finger in Justin''s face, "We''re not done, Justine!" He warned, as he stumbled off towards the bathrooms.


    As soon as he was out of sight, Justin drained his drink and left immediately. Forget staying in town, he''d find something to do in Canada tonight. He didn''t want anything to do with Tony fucking Stark. Not until he was the one with all the cards.


    Soon¡­


    £ª£ª£ª


    "Vanko¡­ No." Justin said, covering his face. What had he done to deserve this?


    Ivan Vanko just crossed his muscular arms and scoffed, "It yes, yes? Suit good?"


    How did this even happen? Iron man hasn''t happened yet. Why on earth did Vanko build Whiplash? And yes, he''d named the suit just that. Justin stared ahead at a suit. More reminiscent of what he''d seen Shocker wear in some video games than an iron man suit if he was honest.


    The sleek suit was obviously powered by an arc reactor, but it also had four more in the back, giving power to not only the whips that Vanko could deploy from several places on the suit, but the Shocker style rings around his arms. He''d cracked repulsor tech to manage flying, but instead of doing repulsors in his hands like Iron Man would soon¡­ He''d gone for something a bit more¡­ Brutal. Justin had been shown the video of Vanko testing them out. The arms crackling with power, almost blindingly so, before a wave of pure arc power shoots forward and destroys anything in its path.


    "The collateral damage¡­" Justin moaned, rubbing his eyes, having removed his glasses. "You can not fire that in a city!"


    Vanko rumbled, looking mullish, hand coming up to rub his cheek, "I aim good, no problem." He decided.


    "Yes, problem!" Justin bit out, "You''re angling to get on my team, do you have any idea what public opinion¡­ Or¡­ Or the politicians will do if you fight someone in DC and they dodge. What if you blow up the White House!?"


    "Needs renovation." Vanko said with a toothy grin, in no way affected by Justin''s rant.


    Justin gaped, staring at him, "That is not an acceptable reaction!" He blustered. Was he the only engineer that was sane?


    Vanko clapped him on the shoulder, chewing on a toothpick, seemingly entirely unconcerned, "No worry, will work fine." He promised.


    "You''re my number one scientific asset. And you¡­ You want to fly around fighting weirdos!" Justin''s voice might be becoming a bit shrill. But really. Vanko was a resource. He didn''t want him blown up.


    He also didn''t want him getting in a fight with Iron Man. The collateral damage would be¡­ And god, if he killed the man, who''s going to do all the drudge work with the heroes?


    Cap and his two stooges were pretty useless as they are. If Stark isn''t around to gear them up, creating War Machine, etc. it would make things so much more difficult for Justin.


    "You¡­ You''re taking Extremis first. You can''t die. That''s an order. Alright. An order, buddy!" He said, defeated. There was no point in alienating his valuable golden goose. With Extremis he was at least unlikely to die.


    "Already take. It''s okidoki." Vanko said, walking off to continue tinkering on the Whiplash armor.


    "... Why the fuck did no one tell me?"


    "I need that fucking AI¡­"


    No matter what universe, Ivan Vanko just does whatever the fuck he wants, apparently.


    Well¡­ If he ever figures out Kilgrave maybe that will change¡­


    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin was sitting in his office, finishing some touches on the speech he''d hold when he would take three sectors of the economy over his knee at once, when Bakshi walked in and disturbed him.


    "Yes?" Justin asked, not often interrupted by Bakshi without at least a knock or a call ahead first.


    "We''ve found him, sir." Bakshi said, nervous energy running through him.


    Justin slowly leaned back in his chair, rubbing his lips in thought. This would be a dangerous step. But oh so satisfying. And it would give him a counterpoint on his team versus the Avengers. "Where?" He asked.


    "The sensors on the base in Siberia were triggered." Bakshi confirmed.


    Justin smirked, the man had been very uncomfortable when Justin had shown knowledge on HYDRA bases he couldn''t possibly have - which Bakshi then hacked into his HYDRA base and confirmed, baffling the man. Justin liked keeping him on his toes. And awe of his abilities and knowledge would keep him on his side in the eventual necessary battle with HYDRA.


    He couldn''t have them control the world when he was obviously so much better suited for it.


    "Time for a field test for the Scorpion and the Vulture then. Send them." Justin ordered. Siberia was a perfect place to get them surreptitiously involved without the rest of the world becoming aware of power suits.


    "It shall be done, sir." Bakshi acknowledged, "What about¡­ Whiplash?" He asked.


    Justin grimaced, he did not want Vanko out and about right now. But the man would be offended if he didn''t at least get a message. "Send him an invite, but email it, don''t put a high priority on it. Maybe he''ll miss it and it will be all over."


    Bakshi looked politely skeptical at that working, but bowed slightly with a murmured "Sir." Before turning to exit the office.


    Justin hummed in thought looking through his console, a few typed commands would ensure the security team would be nearby to do evac in the worst case scenario. His team might not need support in a fight, but the logistics of entering and exiting a situation, or escaping with all the equipment in case of a loss, was possibly a different matter.


    He also sent a request to a contact in the KGB or FSB, or whatever they were called nowadays. One everyone bought at some point. But Justin would buy him and exclusivity for the next 48 hours at least. Long enough to be in and gone before the agent would sell it on to everyone else. Of course the man didn''t actually know it was Justin talking to him. Justin had enough meta knowledge about SHIELD that he managed to fake it well enough the FSB man thought he was selling information to SHIELD.


    Siberia¡­


    He was probably getting wiped again then.


    That would certainly make it easier to get the Winter Soldier if that was the case.


    Pity he''d have to order the rest dead if they were in containment there at this point.


    Oh well, little Bucky was the important one anyway.


    So he had the suits to be Iron Man''s equal, or really he had three of them so he was quite superior actually. He''d try to get the Abomination as a counterpoint to the Hulk¡­ A risky endeavor but potentially worth it. And Bucky would make a wonderful counter to Steve. Captain America would never move against Bucky seriously.


    Barton just shot arrows, he hardly needed to bother with a counter. And the Widow for all her skills at the pillow arts¡­ He didn''t need a super spy on a team fighting alien invasions, he could do better. Technically he could count two of his three suit wearers as the counterpoints to the agents. Because any of them would absolutely crush Natasha and Clint.


    Massive firepower was a superpower that was hard to fight against.


    Hmm¡­ He wondered briefly if Loki would be interested in being a counterpoint to Thor?


    Probably not worth the hassle¡­


    Besides, if necessary he could just wave Jane Foster ahead of him if things developed the same there. With the mutants involved who knows. Justin really didn''t want the likes of Magneto or Sinister to work with Loki...


    Hopefully Magneto would truly be against the alien invasions...


    Should he get involved in the whole Thor debacle? It would be really helpful for Earth if Asgard didn''t go to hell in a few years.


    Warning Thor about Hela?


    Hmm, he''d have to think about it. He had no good way of explaining it.


    Last thing he needed was Hela released early and invading with the Asgardians or her undead army.


    Although he''d pay good money to see Cap try to brain her with a shield and hold his usual all day nonsense.


    Maybe he could get Cap out in space for Thor 3?


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 5: Taming Winter.

    £ª£ª£ª


    Frank Castle had to admit that his new gig came with some very good benefits. The pay was, for one, absolutely ridiculous. Frank could have spent the rest of his life in the military and worked his way up the chain of command and still not see this kind of money with the cumulative earnings of a lifetime in the service.


    Then he''d been hit with Extremis. Fucking regeneration, and his boss even included families in that offer. You didn''t get much better with healthcare benefits than being able to survive almost anything without a scratch. And it really helped Frank relax knowing his girl would be safe no matter what.


    Of course being able to fight with a power suit that could have wasted Frank''s entire battalion without issue, was another perk. A pretty sweet one he had to admit.


    Now if only the people he worked with weren''t so¡­


    ¡­


    Much. Just much.


    "I fire, problem solved, da? No more bunker." Vanko, or Whiplash as he was called right now, said. Codenames in use during the operation as per the protocol he''d set up, since no one else was doing it. Not that anything was likely to breach their comms, but no need to create bad habits. Bad habits invited bad ends.


    Frank had nominally been put in charge, which he suspected the boss only did to punish him for not being as obviously excited as the other two to be working for him. He was, he just wasn''t that kind of expressive kind of a person.


    Frank grit his teeth together, "We''re supposed to take the target alive, Whiplash." He reminded the eccentric scientist, for the third time. The man was way too trigger happy for a man capable of wiping a small town off the map with the press of a button.


    Whiplash splayed his hands out, somehow managing an innocent look even covered head to toe in armor. "He hardy, no? Survive falling stones, no biggie."


    Rumlow chuckled, the synthesizer in the Vulture armor making it come out fairly sinister. "He got you there, Scorpion." He said, likely more to annoy Frank than any actual wish to proceed in such a haphazard manner. Rumlow for his faults, had actually been trained in the proper ways to go about missions. He just didn''t care.


    Frank, crouched low in the Scorpion armor, his tail slightly raised above the ice ravine they were hiding in, using his sensor suite to watch the bunker that likely held the Winter soldier. "The boss has put a lot of money and resources on us, do you two chucklefucks really want to mess this up by going in half-cocked?" Was it too much to expect some manner of professionalism from the two? He thought with irritation.


    Rumlow made an agreeing noise, "Eh, it''s going to be more fun to go through the place with maximum carnage anyway, right Whiplash?" He said, nudging the smaller man. Compared to the beastly power suits of the Vulture and the Scorpion, Whiplash was positively tiny, being man sized. That said, between the three of them, Whiplash had the superior firepower.


    Whiplash laughed, "Da, the men maybe cry like tiny girls when see us kicking the asses." He suggested, practically brimming with excitement, violence just leashed under the surface.


    The genius behind the suits was insane, of course, why not, Frank thought with exasperation.


    Frank really wished the members of his team had been recruited from the service, Rumlow didn''t count, SHIELD had delusions of grandeur compared to proper soldiers. In his opinion the play soldiers of SHIELD were too arrogant to ever be good soldiers. "As far as the sensors can tell, he''s likely there." Frank murmured, "Can''t say for sure, but there''s recent activity and the tracks show something large was moved in recently."


    "If they were moving in equipment, he might be there¡­ Or they''re just setting up for him coming." Rumlow said, for once taking it seriously, "Intel might be faulty. Wouldn''t be the first time I''ve seen that."


    Frank hated agreeing with Rumlow, but he''d seen the same too, Intel, especially the kind that was almost too good to be true - very rarely turned out to be correct. "We''ll have to operate under the assumption that intel is correct." He said, unhappy about it, but they had a specific time constrained mission, they couldn''t wait.


    "Fighting now better, waiting bad." Whiplash said, chuckling darkly, "Waiting means interference, mean tracking, mean boss pissy, take away toys." The rings around Whiplash''s arms briefly charged, lighting up their little ravine, "I like the toys¡­"


    The Vultures head turned to Frank, your call, Frank read from the movement. He tsked quietly inside his armor, at least Rumlow wasn''t making anymore jokes now that crunch time was coming.


    "Vulture, take to the skies, once we''re inside, blow all the exits, your sensors should have it mapped by now." Frank waited for any word that Rumlow had in fact not used his own sensor suite yet, he grunted with satisfaction when Rumlow said nothing, "Then run interference, full jamming, anything comes within five miles of us, blow it to hell."


    Blowing the exits meant they''d have to blow their own way out afterwards, so no quick exit for them, but it was necessary to ensure there were no survivors escaping them.


    "Ahh, I wish I could be in there just to see these HYDRA fucks pissing themselves," Rumlow said with relish, "But I can''t complain about being in the sky, either." He said wistfully.


    Frank ignored him, "Whiplash you''ll follow behind me as I tank my way through the opposition, snipe down anyone you want, but!" And here the Scorpion armor turned to stare straight at Vanko, impressing how serious he was, "Do not fire at full power. We are not blowing up the bunker while our target is in it! Once the target is found, tase him until he''s out."


    A simple plan, but Frank didn''t think Vanko would follow anything too complicated, too likely to go off on his own to blow something up.


    Whiplash snapped a mocking salute, "Okidoki, boring fighting, will do, but blow up bunker after, da?"


    Rumlow chuckled again in the background as Frank just sighed, "Once the target is out¡­ Yes." He said reluctantly. It would please the scientist and erase as much of the evidence of their presence as possible, so they might as well.


    "So¡­ Now then?" Rumlow asked eagerly.


    Frank did one last sweep with his sensors, finding nothing had changed, the HYDRA team that had arrived at the bunker didn''t even bother with guards outside, counting on their anonymity. "Go now." He agreed, vaulting out of the crevice, thundering towards the bunker at speeds exceeding an Olympic athlete, the claws of his armor having no trouble finding purchase on the icy ground. Whiplash shooting out after him, not bothering to even touch the ground, his multitude of Arc reactors keeping him in the air as he flew behind him, cackling loudly.


    Behind them, with an unnecessary dramatic roar, the Vulture took to the sky, his long wings flared out as he readied himself for taking out any possible exit while already jamming the area to prevent communication or satellite monitoring.


    Seconds after they rushed into action. The massive Scorpion armor shoulder tackled the massive steel door, and ripped through it like it was butter.


    The Hammer team had their first fight.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Valeri really hated his job some days. It was an easy job, no doubt about that. Guarding the eggheads and equipment that scrambled the Winter Soldier''s brain. Well paid too, as long as one could live with often being in areas where you couldn''t spend it.


    But it was incredibly boring, the most boring job he''d ever had. They were long past the point where the soldier fought back, he was nothing but a puppet at this point. This most recent posting in the ass end of nowhere, Siberia, coming from the soldier showing emotion for a moment, the brass taking no chances even with such a small deviation. Ordering him off any further assignments, wanting him scrambled harshly and frozen for a time, again.


    Just in case.


    Since the soldier had been nearby, having been on assignment in Kazakhstan, they''d been sent to this installation, for its remoteness and protected status, an ideal place to store him for a time. Which meant instead of hanging around in a hotel, or having his fun in a nearby brothel in-between guard duty - he was stuck freezing his ass off in a drab bunker with the rest of his team.


    The only food available was canned. The morale amongst his men wasn''t high, and the posting hadn''t even properly started yet.


    Valeri was desperately trying to keep warm, walking to check on his men by the front entrance, just going around the corner, ready to tear into them for nothing other than boredom, when a thunderous explosion brought any thoughts to an end, the steel doors ripped through as something smashed into the bunker, dust, rocks, snow and debris falling into the entrance antechamber, his men scrambling for cover.


    Valeri couldn''t even reach for his firearm, his cigarette dangling from his lips as he stood frozen to the spot and just gaped at the black and dark green monster in their midst. A metallic Scorpion, tall enough he barely fit in the room, Valeri''s brain finally rebooted enough to hit the alarm button on his radio, they needed the soldier, now!


    The Scorpion''s tail raised menacingly, poking over its shoulder, as his men opened fire, their assault rifles not even scratching it. The thing chuckling at the pings of bullets bouncing off its armor.


    As Valeri yelled for grenades, the tail opened up, and a green laser fired out, sweeping from side to side, cutting through his men with ease. Valeri could only watch helplessly as the 8 men he''d placed in the antechamber were cut down like wheat in seconds. He''d seen a lot in his years as a mercenary and then HYDRA, but never men cut in half like that, still standing, the halves of his men sliding off them almost comically.


    Valeri wasn''t laughing.


    The Scorpion walked forward, it''s claws piercing the concrete as it came further in, Valeri noticed with panic that another figure followed it, a suit of armor with concentric circles around its arms, wait! They were pointing at him!? He needed to -.


    A blinding flash was the last thing Valeri saw, a dark chuckle with a Russian sounding accent the last thing he heard.


    £ª£ª£ª


    "Vulture, blow the exits." Frank ordered as he and Vanko made their way past the antechamber, the small guard placed there cut down with ease, barely able to mount a defense at all.


    Behind them, the entrance was destroyed in missile fire, concrete and steel burying it beyond anything the people here could do to escape it in time.


    Frank could hear several other explosions as well, which meant the Vulture had found and detonated other avenues to exit the Bunker. Having a flier on the team was definitely useful.


    Whiplash stopped by the lone body that had by appearances, just arrived upon their entrance, the mad scientist chuckling as he patted the scorched body on the cheek.


    "Friend of yours?" Frank asked, sarcastically.


    Whiplash stood up, before stomping down on the man''s skull, crushing it completely, "Went to same childhood school, threw dirt in face, once." Whiplash chuckled, "Fun, seeing old friend!"


    Frank shook his head. Fucking Russians. He thought as they left the corpses behind and made their way further into the bunker. He was pretty sure Vanko was full of shit on that as well. Russia was way too big for him to have a school chum hang around here of all places. Right?


    £ª£ª£ª


    Oliver Werner, the person currently in charge of the care of the Winter Soldier, swore extensively as his fourth attempt to contact anyone outside the bunker failed. Whoever was attacking had excellent jamming technology. Better than HYDRA, which did not bode well.


    The fact they knew to hit them right now, as they''d just arrived to put the Winter Soldier on ice, boded even worse. HYDRA had a leak. And he couldn''t even reach anyone to warn them!


    Pierce was going to fuck him up the ass with a cheese grater if he didn''t fix this!


    "Stop them from putting the soldat on ice!" He screamed at one of his attendants, who immediately took off running. Hopefully he''d make it on time before their best weapon went into the ice. This is what they were limited to¡­ People delivering orders by hand.


    Phones, radio, even fucking emails, nothing was going through.


    He watched on the cameras as the two armored individuals casually strolled through their installation chatting with each other without a care in the world, any of his few men that were stationed here, slaughtered on sight. The larger one so big his head scraped the ceiling yet moved with a casualness that belied its size.


    They worked as a rule with low manpower around the soldat, the whole point was to fly under the radar, so they did not have a large contingent of soldiers as a result. Why would they need it when they had the Winter Soldier?


    He was not sure the soldat could actually beat these monsters, which added to his blood pressure and stress levels. Their soldat was an assassin primarily, he was a tough fighter, as a super soldier should be, but what exactly was he supposed to do against miniature missiles, lasers and shots of plasma? Pure electricity? Or whatever it was the smaller armor fired off.


    Grenades did nothing, mines seemed to amuse them, weapons fire was beyond useless, they might as well have been firing rubber bullets. He seriously doubted one soldier, no matter how strong, would be able to fight these two.


    He nervously tapped his chin as he studied their enemy, if they lost the Winter Soldier here¡­ Because surely that''s why their enemy was here of all places to begin with¡­ He''d better be dead, because once the HYDRA heads got a hold of him, death would be a relief.


    Pierce alone was a monster in human skin, but he was a puppy compared to some of the people in HYDRA.


    His eyes hardened as he made his decision, if he was risking things worse than death anyway¡­ "Wake them!" He ordered sternly to his second in command.


    Luckily enough, they were in the only location that happened to have other Winter Soldiers.


    "Sir!?" The man protested, "They can''t be controlled!"


    He didn''t care, at least they''d take out these interlopers, perhaps he''d be lucky and they''d both take each other out. "Do it!" He snapped, hand hovering above his holstered weapon.


    "H-hail Hydra!" The man said weakly, before scrambling to get out of the room. The man was a coward, so he''d no doubt do as he''s told, and then likely try to escape.


    He was too busy watching their enemies'' easy progress through the bunker to even bother answering his weasel like subordinate, let alone think more about what he would do, his mind racing instead, trying to find a way to get out of this situation alive.


    He couldn''t even abandon his men and get out, they''d managed to blow all the exits.


    Who were these guys?


    £ª£ª£ª


    "Seems the possibility outlined in the briefing is a go, boys, my sensors are picking up heat signatures in that missile silo." Rumlow reported over coms, his sensors able to penetrate through even the thick layers of the bunker when flying right above it. Hammer really had the good shit, or should he say Vanko?


    There was silence for a moment, Rumlow could see miniature heat signatures disappearing one after one near Scorpion and Whiplash. He really wished he was part of the action, but the Vulture was better used in the skies.


    "Copy that, they shouldn''t be a problem." Frank responded with grim pleasure. "These suits are like nothing I''ve ever seen before."


    Rumlow laughed, flaring out his wings, coming to a stop in mid-air hanging over the bunker, "Finally starting to enjoy yourself, Scorpion?"


    "See, all good fun, da?" Whiplash said smugly, "Many good idea for upgrade."


    Rumlow chuckled, "If you make them much better, Whiplash, we''ll be unstoppable!"


    "Is point." Whiplash said cheerfully.


    Rumlow''s sensors pinged, he turned and faced the other direction, "You better wrap it up boys, despite the fact we''re supposed to be alone out here, I''ve got some friendly fighter jets coming my way."


    The Vulture suit felt like a second skin around him as he aligned his wings and fired off several missiles as a nice hello, flying after them to ensure he''d take the bogeys down if they managed to evade, no survivors could make it out of here.


    At least the jamming tech should prevent the pilots from reporting anything before their demise.


    He honestly felt a little let down when the pilots didn''t manage to avoid the missiles and exploded, swinging back towards the bunker, hoping his next outing would have some more action for him to get into, really take the thing for a spin.


    In time baby, he mentally told the suit. In good time.


    £ª£ª£ª


    They didn''t bother with even attempting to be stealthy, they weren''t made for it, and besides that, they were in a time crunch, whether it was Russia or HYDRA that scrambled jets so soon to meet them, they couldn''t hang around too long or risk exposure.


    Hammer especially didn''t want exposure, not yet. He''d been very clear on that.


    Frank would bet on HYDRA being behind scrambling the jets, they likely had some sort of automatic system to notify of a breach of the bunker. They''d already paid off the Russians so they shouldn''t be mobilizing this quickly.


    As they got to the entrance to the missile silo, Frank simply used his foreclaws to tear through it, tossing it like a frisbee at the six men and women standing inside.


    They easily avoided it. But only one of them was properly dressed and armed to fire back. Seems the others had just been woken from a nap and didn''t have their gear yet, how unfortunate for them.


    The Winter soldier was there. Their target. Standing apart from the rest, his metal arm on display, he was absolutely loaded down with weapons, and he was already firing, each shot unerringly hitting Frank in the face of the Scorpion suit. And doing nothing. He''d need a lot more firepower for that.


    The other five soldiers, with just having been woken up from the tanks, were barely dressed and had no weaponry, all five running full tilt towards him and Whiplash to engage in hand to hand. Almost amusing to see, if they weren''t covering ground faster then a damn cheeta.


    Frank swept his tail towards the female on the left even as he aligned his arms, inbuilt assault rifles firing against the approaching winter soldiers, forcing them to move, they might be super soldiers but they weren''t bulletproof.


    The female who wasn''t being fired on, slid under his tail with a disparaging look on her face, one that turned to a scream as it turned slightly and fired the laser through her torso from behind, the woman cut in half in seconds, the super soldier serum apparently couldn''t heal as well as Extremis, bad luck for them.


    He idly noted Whiplash firing back and forth with their target, good. Of any of them, Whiplash was likely least suited to be pounded on by a group of super humans. Frank had a lot of armor covering the Scorpion suit.


    It came into use as he continued firing. The soldiers splitting up, coming at him from different angles, one managing to hit him with a powerful haymaker that made him slide back ten feet, thanks to the inertial dampeners on the inside of his suit, Frank didn''t even feel it.


    The soldier paid for getting so close, Frank moved forward, back to the soldier, quickly the power inherent in his suit allowing him to leap forward. The suit was not as slow and cumbersome as it looked, his right claw ripped through the man''s head as his left arm continued firing against the other soldiers, who annoyingly enough, dodged it all pretty well.


    Oh, well, Frank thought, firing off his tail laser to deny them as much of an area to operate in, "They can''t do anything to me, and they can''t dodge forever.


    Only a matter of time now.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Whiplash versus Winter Soldier.


    Whiplash flared the power of the arc reactor at the back of his right shoulder, spinning him perfectly out of the way of the metal fist of the winter soldier. At the same time he let off a paralyzing explosion of electricity, flowing out of his suit in an expanding dome from all the emitters he''d implanted in his armor.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    Annoyingly enough, the soldier managed to throw himself out of the way and at the same time leave behind a bundle of grenades, forcing Whiplash to lose sight of him for just a moment as they exploded, throwing up debris in the air, stopping his next shot from hitting his elusive prey.


    "Run run little rabbit, all you can do, huh?" He turned on his exterior speakers and taunted the elusive man.


    He idly turned his right hand towards the other fight, the rings around his arm briefly lighting up, a bright lance of arc power shooting out, forcing the other soldiers into the kill zone of the Scorpion to avoid his shot and the laser that kept hemming them in that the Scorpion was making such good use of. It pleased Vanko to see his creations put to such good use. It would provide amazing data to allow him to continue to improve them.


    The winter soldier had still not shown up, annoying him, he swept the silo with his sensors, his lips curling as he found the man up on the catwalks of the missile silo itself, just finishing putting a heavy duty sniper rifle together. "You think tiny toy hurt me? Why not use fists? Scared?" He continued to taunt the bogeyman that Russian children were read bedtime stories about.


    This whole thing was cathartic because of memories of little Ivan - who''d worried the winter soldier would come out of his closet to strangle him.


    Except the soldier didn''t fire at him, he fired, and one of the catwalks fell down upon Vanko, who gritted his teeth in pure annoyance. It didn''t actually hurt him, but this bug was getting annoying. Refusing to engage properly.


    He idly noted the Scorpion putting down the last of the other fools, his intervention enough to force them all in close to the behemoth.


    Eh, I''ll get yelled at¡­ But¡­ Vanko thought, every arc reactor on him flaring up with power as he glared up at the irritating bug that would only fade in and out in battle instead of fighting him properly. The rings around his arms were now glowing so brightly that anyone looking at Vanko wouldn''t be able to see anything but the light.


    "Whiplash, NO!" The Scorpion yelled.


    The Vulture cutting in on comms at the same time, "Guys I''m seeing a lot of heat build up, what ar-"


    Vanko let loose, a beam as thick as a pickup truck flew from his arms, obliterating the missile silo as it flew over the Winter Soldier, he wasn''t stupid. The silo crumbling down with an incredible amount of noise, half of it having been erased from existence, the soldier falling, debris raining down on him. The shockwave itself likely having knocked him out.


    "- Nevermind, it was Whiplash." The Vulture finished. "I think they''ll notice that, jamming or not." He added.


    The Scorpion turned to glare at Whiplash, as stone and cement rained down on them, a particularly large piece being punched away by the enraged man. "Whiplash, go get the target before he''s buried, and we will be talking about this!"


    "No life signs in the building except you guys." The Vulture reported, now visible above them floating over the ruined silo.


    "Hey¡­ Whiplash¡­" The Vulture said slowly as Vanko dug the Winter Soldier out, "When you fired that, how did you know I wasn''t right above you guys?"


    ...


    Whiplash paused, "forgot about you." He admitted, laughing to himself.


    The Vulture and Scorpion both decided that they''d need a serious conversation with Whiplash going forward.


    No wonder the boss thought the man was nuts.


    £ª£ª£ª


    One week later, hidden lab, New Jersey.


    Justin stood on the other side of the cell, watching through the almost completely unbreakable glass as the Winter Soldier lay unconscious on an examination table. Unless he was hiding the Hulk in his pants, he wasn''t going to be able to break out of the cell. And it would be easy enough to knock him out again through the ventilation system, isolated just for his cell to apply knockout gas.


    Phantazia let out a breath next to him, "He''s a myth, I''ve heard of him of course, who hasn''t - in our business, but I hadn''t believed it, not really."


    "Fuck that, the fact he''s James Buchanan Barnes, is even crazier." Domino said, eying him through the glass with a thoughtful frown, "Did you know that ahead of time, boss man?" She queried suspiciously, turning to eye him. Phantazia as well giving him the evil eye.


    Justin grinned, "You should just assume I know everything, my dear Domino." He said smugly.


    Domino snorted, shaking her head, "You don''t have enough money to pay me to believe that!"


    Phantazia sighed, giving Domino a look, "Considering what''s coming, that''s both untrue and a ridiculous argument to have anyway, he obviously knew."


    Justin knew she was speaking on the absolute windfall of money he was so close to achieving. He''d literally soon have the ability to buy anything he wanted, after all. Including countries. Not that he wanted any, they''d be beyond annoying to rule.


    Maya Hansen left the cell, finished with her examination, "You are not going to stop shocking me with crazy things are you?" She asked dryly, eyes going to the unconscious world war two veteran.


    Justin just grinned easily, "It makes life interesting, you know you love it, doc." He gestured to Bucky, "What''s the prognosis?"


    Maya frowned, crossing her arms, "Extremis might work¡­ I''ll need a lot of further testing. Parts of his brain have been scorched so hard I''m surprised he has any memories, I''m not surprised his long term memories have issues. Extremis should return his brain to a peak state that theoretically should fix the underlying issue."


    "But?" Justin asked, frowning slightly, it sounded like she was not very sure about the effects.


    Maya threw her hands out, ''He''s a super soldier," She stressed, "I don''t know how that will interact with Extremis, or if his brain healing will bring back memories, I''m not an expert on the human brain by any stretch."


    Maya hadn''t even finished Extremis on her own, so she wasn''t an expert on that either, but Justin didn''t say it. Pointing out she''d needed Cho and Vanko to help wouldn''t win him any points with the woman.


    Justin hummed thoughtfully, he did have a resource for her however that he didn''t need for anything else too severely. "I do have another man with the super soldier serum, a more expendable subject. If you have a test subject you can play around with without worrying about consequences, would that help you work out any kinks?" He asked, uncaring if it meant the death of Isaiah Bradley, "I''ll get you a brain specialist to bounce ideas off too."


    Even if he''d need to bury them in so many NDA''s their grandchildren wouldn''t be allowed to talk until their deathbeds.


    Maya smiled, eyes shiny with the madness of science behind them. "That would do perfectly," She chirped, all smiles now, "A subject to test everything on would drastically increase the chances of success on the main subject."


    Justin texted Bakshi, putting his phone away right after, walking away from the comatose Winter Soldier. "Bakshi has been made aware, you will get access to Bradley again. Good luck doc, I expect results."


    He''d fix Bucky up, and then have up to two years to condition the man to be in his corner, it wouldn''t be hard to showcase the evils of SHIELD and the governments of the world compared to all the good he could do. He wouldn''t even have to lie. The governments of the world were just that bad at taking care of their people.


    Justin making Extremis available to everyone already would set him apart massively from governments who would have hoarded the invention and used it to make more super soldiers. The fact Justin wasn''t but he could have - would win him a ton of clout with Barnes.


    Sure he wasn''t lily white, but someone like the previous Winter Soldier wouldn''t care about that overly, not if it made the world greatly better against minor sacrifices.


    Of course he''d have to make sure that Bradley wasn''t revealed, that part of his operation would probably have to be buried by the time Barnes was up and about. But really, it would be worth it.


    And he''d make sure Bucky didn''t follow Captain America around like a puppy. It wouldn''t be that hard to get the man a therapist that would subtly work the man away from that unhealthy relationship. Constantly hinting that Steve had used him. How selfish he''d always been, taking up military resources by lying and trying to get in when he was obviously unfit. Caring more about himself than the service. It could be spun that way. After all, if that Steve had been allowed in - he would have gotten people killed.


    Even when he became the super version of himself, even if he won by doing it - he didn''t follow orders. The damage he could have done, just because it worked a couple times, what would happen to all the regular soldiers that didn''t have his protection if he messed up the general staff''s strategies?


    The best way to lie was to mix in so much truth that the lie didn''t sound so unreasonable. Of course this would have to be done very slowly over the process of two years by the therapist, but it had potential.


    He''d likely never make Bucky an enemy of Captain America, but he''d settle for making him friendly, but with no interest in going to work for the spandex idiot. With Bucky as his man, Captain America would not move against him unless he announced an intention to conquer the world or something equally asinine.


    He''d made an investment in the one armed man, whether he agreed or not, he belonged to Justin now.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin just couldn''t help it, chortling to himself as he watched, in his new Manhattan office, having just returned from New Jersey, as his computer screen played a video of Natasha Romanoff being heckled by noobies. He''d utilized Bakshi to find out what effect his lovely little ploy with the Black Widow had on SHIELD, mostly just for fun, and, he admitted to himself, a slight bit of curiosity to see if it had worked, in making her seem less competent.


    He wanted to know If it had worked in making the deadly bogeyman of the spy community (Other than the Winter soldier) seem human and just as much a failure as anyone else. Maybe a little more than anyone else actually, considering the embarrassment of having her mark know about her the entire time and just stringing her along because she was good on her knees.


    Bakshi''s stock had risen in HYDRA the more waves Justin had made with his mad spending, with what to their eyes must be some sort of hidden plan laying behind it, one that no one else knew about. And with the steady drip of misinformation Bakshi was feeding them, Bakshi was now considered a reliable asset to the organization - at least until they''ll realize it''s all bullshit anyway when Justin truly steps out. So it was not any hardship for Bakshi to use his HYDRA connection to get a good view inside SHIELD''s system.


    It was in fact hilariously easy. SHIELD really was infested.


    Perhaps Justin had made himself an enemy he needn''t have made by playing with the naughty little spider. But he held strong opinions on most of the Avengers and the Black Widow, just like Captain America and Tony Stark, were high up on his list of people he held in absolute contempt, due to a mix of his memories from his original world and a mix of Justin''s own dislike of Tony Stark. To boot Justin had never liked it when people were put on pedestals and idolized and then did nothing with it.


    Stark and Banner at least, could have revolutionized the world. Instead they were too busy with personal drama to do fuck all. Yeah, yeah, saved the world, whatever. Half those issues they created themselves.


    Their characters might have been fun or interesting, if he was watching a set of movies. Here, where their decisions actually impacted his life and the world he was living in¡­ He was not thrilled to be sharing space with such complete morons.


    Their only solution to any problem seemed to be to hit it with a stick - and if it didn''t work, make a bigger stick and hit it again. What problem in the world did they actually solve? What did they do, that couldn''t have been done better with someone that actually thought ahead. Movie logic¡­


    So many of the threats were self-inflicted or could have been diverted by just stopping and thinking for one moment.


    He did not intend to have Ultron happen¡­ Also, there were other ways to defeat HYDRA other than burning every agent of SHIELD and their families - without even once seeking other options or the help of someone like the AI they knew¡­ Or his slightly useless, but could have probably helped - drunk landlord.


    As much as he detested Tony Stark, he could, grudgingly, admit - that he''d have been able to do more in Winter Soldier then all the actual combatants combined - if he''d been involved. Without ever using his suit.


    His AI, his hacking skills, and the fact helicarriers were built with his tech! Even his connection with Rhodey could have brought in a small cadre of military brass to authorize an operation - HYDRA couldn''t be everywhere. If anyone could sift through someone''s life and confirm they were clean - it would be Jarvis.


    Only movie logic had someone like Nick Fury back down to Captain - doesn''t matter who dies, as long as Bucky lives - America.


    Movie logic dictated the absolute stupidity that led to the world losing half its population. But Justin had seen nothing from his informants and the literal HYDRA spies Bakshi had access to - that said the notable people of interest were any different then their movie selves, which is why he treated them with such contempt. If anything everything he''d seen confirmed that Stark, Banner and the members of SHIELD were exactly as portrayed. Even the mutants being in the mix hadn''t changed any of that - apparently their mostly hidden status meant the future Avengers themselves hadn''t dealt with many, even if SHIELD itself certainly had.


    Badly. They''d dealt with them badly.


    Justin had seen the files. Just wow. HYDRA hadn''t even needed to sabotage anything. SHIELD messed up that first contact situation all on their own.


    Fury had a cadre of shapeshifting aliens doing his shit and he still couldn''t deal with his own backyard. Luckily anything sensitive in Justin''s company was specifically hidden away in a way that even shapeshifters wouldn''t find easily.


    So yes, his memories had certainly had a big part in how he''d acted with Natashalie.


    He vividly remembered the arrogance of the Black Widow, mouthing off to the elected representatives of the country she lived and operated in, after carelessly killing god knows who many. Justin didn''t particularly care one way or the other what Congress wanted either. Other than donating (bribing) his money to them to ensure his business didn''t encounter difficulties.


    The illusion was there for the common rabble however, that the people in Congress worked for them - so it took a certain kind of person to tell them to stuff it, because all the murder was fine, because reasons.


    Tony Stark and Captain America both showed equal disregard to the governments of the world. Again¡­ Justin held disregard for the government too, and would become powerful enough where he could completely ignore them - but these people''s arrogance broke the universe. So Justin felt perfectly entitled to rank his feelings above theirs.


    He didn''t need to become a tyrant, ruling the world was just plain stupid, he''d just have to deal with riots and rebellions all day long, everyday. His plan would have his companies become so interwoven with human life day to day - that no government would ever dare offend him, knowing he was untouchable - or he might withdraw his services from that particular country. Much simpler.


    Of course he could be simply defeated by all the governments of the world making him an ultimatum.


    But they couldn''t even agree to stop bombing each other, so that frankly was never going to happen.


    Justin was practically within reach of world domination. A decade tops. Without ever having to deal with elections or rebellion or anything silly like that.


    And yet, he felt his arrogance, (justified, he thought, with his coming achievements) was matched by the so called heroes. Who, except for Spiderman, the one hero Justin could really respect, even if he thought him ridiculously self limited - seemed to disregard the common man and elected officials like they were trash.


    Natasha Romanoff had not yet had the chance to betray every SHIELD agent. Nor the secrets that likely protected many lives - that also were leaked and led to numerous deaths. She had not yet helped Captain Righteous hold secrets from a teammate that ruined everything. She had not yet played both sides in a civil war that ensured Thanos won.


    Justin was a villain however, even if he wasn''t the spandex type of villain. So he didn''t quibble about minor things like punishing someone for something they hadn''t done yet. And either way, it was hardly like she was an innocent woman to begin with.


    So therefore, he could, with conscience clear, eat popcorn while chuckling along as SHIELD noobies heckled the feared Black Widow. Her sex tape having spread faster than the speed of light in the spy community.


    Of course, dear Natasha took them down for the sheer temerity of the baby ducklings daring to talk smack to her - backed up by the ever loyal Hawkeye who seemed none too pleased at what he was hearing. But it didn''t help her, as immediately one of the members of the STRIKE team that was around in the canteen, made a loud comment on having seen her make those exact moves in bed and asked if she was doing a reenactment with the recruits.


    Justin would never admit that he giggled and almost choked on his popcorn, as the Black Widow looked around in barely hidden frustration, finding no real allies.


    Thank god that SHIELD was paranoid enough to have mic''s as well as cameras spying on even their own people at their most relaxed - this all wouldn''t be as fun without the sound.


    Guess being a duplicitous cold bitch that likes betraying everyone and everything isn''t working out for dear Natashalie, Justin thought, smirking to himself, practically feeling her reputation lowering amongst her fellow agents.


    Justin turned the monitor off with a pleased sigh. That worked out really well.


    Good luck spying on Stark industries as a well known porn sensation, Natashalie¡­ He thought viciously. Even Stark couldn''t miss that!


    One Avengers reputation shot down¡­


    Who should he go after next?


    £ª£ª£ª


    One week before the Afghanistan situation.


    Justin might not have the reputation of Tony Stark, but he could still arrange a meeting with a US general on short notice without an issue. Especially this type of general. The one willing to make deals that were not all above board as long as it benefited America.


    He sauntered into the testing site, the general he''d be meeting having already cleared him, his bodyguards and security detail, and the equipment they were bringing with them, ahead of time - so they could skip the tedious frisking process.


    Justin wouldn''t have done that for his mother, god rest her soul, so he couldn''t understand that carelessness, but it did save him time today, so he was pleased. Never interrupt someone making a mistake after all. Letting stupid people stick around, just made it easier to continue to get one over them.


    "General Ross, an absolute pleasure! Still as fit as ever I see, how ever do you do it!?" Justin called out as they entered the area specifically built to test small arms and rifles.


    The bunker had targets scattered throughout, barriers interspersed to test how much damage to a structure a shot could do - as well, they also had those see through dummies with fake organs in them, so that they could see what a shot would do to a human body.


    All of it behind a clear line to one side of the bunker, making the safe side set apart from the unsafe side. Some barriers hiding dummies behind them, some allowing just part of a head peeking out. Giving many options to test a weapon.


    Justin couldn''t quite bring out the big guns yet, and risk leaking it to Stark and his pet AI. But some small stuff that he''d ask Ross to sit on for a week or two in exchange for a deal of mutual assistance, as well as help with the top brass when the time came?


    It would help to have even the tiniest bit of insider knowledge inside the government that Justin wasn''t full of shit - once he kicked things off.


    Ross would play ball. It helped that he was really not Tony''s biggest fan. And having Ross in his corner would really help speed up Justin''s plans once he really started releasing innovations left right and center. He was a notable patriot with a bevy of very useful connections, he would push ahead stubbornly at full speed if he believed Justin was the wave of the future.


    No need to tell the poor old man yet, that Justin had no intention of only selling to America or NATO. His innovations needed to be worldwide if they were going to be able to defend themselves from alien invasions. If people warred with each other and killed each other with his weapons? Well they were going to do that anyway, what did he care. That had been Tony''s mistake, people were always going to kill each other anyway.


    With the innovations he was bringing to the market, and his buddy the president in his corner, he could handle the PR hit of selling his weapons to China and Russia. And as angry as people like Ross would become at that - they couldn''t exactly stop buying from Justin - if their enemies now had the weapons too.


    Ross would be useful for now, until he turned on Justin, he hadn''t yet tarnished his reputation as much as he would one day, either, so it was the perfect time to strike when it came to take advantage of his zealous lust for carnage.


    He''d be easy enough to drop away if he became a problem later, just using the information from Banner and Blonsky when that went down. Maybe. Somehow the guy had managed to weasel into secretary of state after all. So he obviously had some hidden dimensions.


    Although this time around, when they''d throw down, maybe Hulk and the Abomination would be hit by a little bit more than bullets thanks to Justin.


    They could take it.


    Flanked by a few aides and another lesser general that Justin did not recognize, Ross stepped forward, in full uniform, to shake Justin''s hand, "Hammer, this better be something worth my while, I don''t appreciate having my time wasted." Ross said sharply, "Don''t waste my time with flowery language, show me what you have or get out!"


    Justin showed no reaction to the harshness in the general''s demeanor. Hammer Industries had not exactly blown the market apart with innovation, so he supposed he did not yet have the reputation to move past Thaddeus Ross''s skepticism.


    Well¡­ Time to change that. Justin stepped away from the general, snapping his fingers theatrically, a small black rod immediately being tossed through the air by Phantazia, which Justin caught and twirled dramatically in front of him with a playful smirk on his face. He held it out in front of him horizontally, "Oh, I think I can deliver¡­" He said sliding his thumb over the activation button. A blue forcefield expanding in front of the baton, forming a riot shield looking forcefield, the handle protected behind it. It covered most of Justin''s form. Yeah Wakanda, suck it! He had forcefields too!


    Every eye in the room was drawn to him as he casually waved the shield around, showcasing how weightless it was, and the ease of maneuvering it. "The battery on this baby, proprietary Hammer tech of course, can last for over 12 hours once activated and without taking any fire, and over 4 hours with sustained small arms fire."


    He put the shield in front of himself, ducking down a little to cover himself fully, "Now, for assault rifles or anti-tank weapons and the like, they''ll hold for a bit, but further testing is needed to figure out how long."


    Either way, it would be superior to anything else on the planet. Except cheaters like magic users or mutants. It would also by happenstance give the police something to use to protect themselves against power users, at least the straightforward ones.


    Wasn''t much anyone could do to protect themselves from the likes of Magneto. Well¡­ The baton was not metal. For that reason exactly, Justin could be petty, who knew. Still wouldn''t do much, but it was better than nothing.


    Justin, the blue glow of the arc battery powered force shield reflecting off his glasses, grinned at the surprised general who had a covetous look on his stern face now, "I see you have a personal weapon strapped on, general, if you would pl-" Justin didn''t get to finish before General Ross swiftly removed his pistol and from just six feet away fired six quick rounds at different spots on the shield. Each unsuccessful in piercing the shield. Justin sighed, "You could have let me finish before you shot me." He chided, not really annoyed, he had supreme confidence in this product, and extremis would ensure he''d suffer no real damage if it should fail.


    Plus, Domino and Phantazia were here, it would take some pretty fine shooting by the general to truly hurt him.


    The aides were muttering to each other with the other general in the mix, all of them looked excited. Ross himself - put his gun away, grunting shortly, giving Justin a cool nod, trying to play it like he wasn''t extremelyinterested. "Nice toy, got anything else?" He said callously.


    This product was something Justin knew would sell well. For one, every police service in the world would likely buy them en masse. And since they were battery operated, a battery only Justin would produce - his sales would continue for the life of the product. Arc reactor powered batteries would be the backbone of his entire company.


    SHIELD had played around with the tesseract to achieve the same thing, except with weapons. Battery operated phase weapons - Tesseract batteries. But the Tesseract was not a continuous resource, his batteries would be. And of course¡­ Justin and Vanko and their arms department hadn''t only produced a shield.


    "Oh, we got all the toys, general." Justin said excitedly, Domino stepped up and took the deactivated baton from him, handing him a small gun, where instead of the smooth barrel, it was blocky and more reminiscent of a taser. He held a glowing battery in his hand, showcasing it to the general, before slotting it into the magazine of the gun. Notably¡­ This also wasn''t made of metal. Yeah, SHIELD and every police service in North America was going to throw money at him.


    Justin wondered how many days after this it would be before he had another visit from Mystique. Hopefully Magneto wouldn''t bother to come himself. Phantazia could shut him down if in close enough, but couldn''t do anything if Magneto rained metal from the skies.


    Well, Justin had other contingencies if Magneto showed up. He would not be caught with his pants down like last time. Not ever again.


    "Taser, by the look of it." Ross said, unimpressed, "These are all more suited to police action than war, why aren''t you bothering the NYPD with this?"


    God, this man really was a contrary cunt no matter what¡­ Justin thought. He knew Ross was interested still, even if he was also correct in a way, these things would be more suited for policing. But they were the taster, the prelude to the main menu, the proof of concept, before he brought out the truly good stuff.


    "The good stuff is coming, my friend." Justin said, before pointing the taser at Phantazia, this had already been set up beforehand. He pulled the trigger, and instead of working like a regular taser, a quick bolt reminiscent of something from star wars, more than conventional arms, shot off and impacted the mutant.


    She immediately fell unconscious, one of his men having stood ready to catch her as she slumped down.


    Justin drew the general''s attention from where the frowning man was looking over at the downed woman, "From testing, the general baseline of someone hit with this - is that they stay unconscious for two hours, give or take a few minutes." Justin showed the side of the gun, showcasing a dial with one red side and one green. He switched the dial to green." If you need them awake sooner, well, beside being a night-night gun, it''s also a wakey-wakey one!" He said playfully, aiming and shooting off another shot, Phantazia opening her eyes soon after, being helped up on her feet, only slightly woozy from the effects.


    Arc reactor power, especially with Justinium behind it - was literally magic. It was pure bullshit, and Justin and Vanko could do so much shit with it.


    Tony Stark was a god damn asshole for not doing more, instead being busy punching people in a suit of armor.


    Ross still remained stone faced, making a gesture like, get on with it then. Not seemingly aware of the excitement behind him, where his aides and lower general were all practically wetting themselves.


    "Tough customer, huh, nothing less than I expected, let''s get to the real firepower then." Justin said, his grin a little bit strained, he knew the man would be an asshole about this until he saw the finale, but still, Justin was showing him a revolution, where was the - Oh my God''s and the - How did you do that!?


    "How about I let you take this next one for a spin general?" Justin said, waving one of his security detail forward with a case.


    The man put the case on one of the tables meant for precisely this kind of thing, Ross and his coterie crowding around as the case is unlocked and flipped open, showing an assault rifle, one slightly blockier than normal.


    Yeah, he was going to piss Magneto off¡­ It wasn''t made of metal either. It was a proprietary hard plastic alloy that needed the power of an arc reactor to pull off manufacturing properly. If Magneto had never threatened him, he''d likely never would have bothered to push Vanko to find a solution, so really, it was Magneto''s own fault.


    No more pulling guns out of people''s hands, asshole. No bullets for him to fire back. He''ll have to learn to dodge or it''s night-night time. Of course this does nothing to prevent him from lifting a tank up and tossing it at the people firing, but at least it''s something. Regular grunts is no longer something he can complete ignore.


    Ross grunted in apparent satisfaction, "That''s more like it Hammer," His visage darkened as he met Justin''s eyes," This better not be to something that just makes people sleepy, war isn''t like some street corner in Manhattan¡­" He barked.


    Tch, like the motherfucker can''t see exactly what I see, one of his jobs is deploying after threats like Magneto¡­ Justin thought. No matter, he wouldn''t allow the surly general ruin his day.


    Justin smiled slyly, waving to the assault rifle, "Well, an eternal rest is something this baby can give anyone."


    Ross scoffed, but he couldn''t quite hide the eagerness in his eyes as he lifted the weapon out of the case. Easily handling it as it wasn''t too different from normal US military equipment. More lightweight though, which would likely be an adjustment.


    "Battery is already in, this baby is ready, all you gotta do is aim, and press the trigger, general." Justin said eagerly, rubbing his hands together. The rifle, except for its slightly blockier design to make room for the battery and to shape the firing beam, was otherwise modeled after any regular assault rifle.


    Ross stepped over to the firing range, getting a feel for the weapon, putting it in a proper firing position, then he removed the safety, and with an eye on the human doll target.


    He fired.


    Between one moment and the next a blue beam left the rifle and impacted the doll, its entire lower torso burning away on contact, the steam of the organs exploding rising up. It was without a doubt, a kill shot.


    Everyone on the general''s side were gaping in shock for a moment, the aides soon tittering with each other while the general amongst them looked like Christmas had arrived and Santa brought weapons of mass destruction for everyone.


    Ross hummed, firing off another shot at one of the barricades, the gun firing almost completely silently, the shot hammered a decent size hole into the barrier, proving its versatility as no regular assault rifle would have done that damage to a structure, pleasing the general. He turned towards Justin, for the first time since they arrived, he smiled, eyes glittering with greed.


    "Alright, you got me, Hammer, I want all of it, yesterday!


    "What else you got?" He asked after a moment, caressing the rifle.


    Justin''s grin turned positively evil.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Wakanda royal palace,


    The meeting was tense, the different representatives from the various tribes of Wakanda seated in a circle ahead of their king and his heir.


    "We can not allow this, the outside world can not be allowed the technological level to threaten Wakanda." W''Kabi argued passionately. Receiving more agreeing mutters than opponents.


    T''Chaka sighed deeply, the arguments had been ongoing for hours, the information their war dogs had returned after months of efforts on spying on Hammer Industries having clued them in on how close they were on matching or even potentially exceeding Wakanda''s technological advantage.


    "Baba, you need to say something." T''Challa whispered to him, bent close so none of the tribal council elders could hear him, or read his lips.


    T''Chaka knew he needed to make a decision. He just wasn''t sure what the right one would be. For the future of Wakanda they could not allow the entire world to reach a parity in technology. They would not react kindly to the hidden nation having kept to themselves this entire time.


    Yet to deprive the world of green energy and advancement, was that the right choice? He knew his son was steadfast in his belief, but he was yet young, had not seen the consequences of making the wrong decisions.


    The enemy did not have Vibranium, but this Arc reactor technology was capable of feats that almost matched their vaunted metal. But it also stood to do a lot of good for the world.


    Never before has he had the choice where so much good could be done, but such a choice would weaken Wakanda to an extreme level.


    In the end, he''s the king of Wakanda. There is only one choice. He raised a hand, stopping the arguments. "Justin Hammer will need to be removed." He said tiredly, a sad undertone to his judgment. "The war dogs will kidnap him, learn who is the head researcher on these technologies, and then execute a raid to destroy these and remove the researchers." He smiled sadly, "He is too much of a threat and will have to be killed once all useful information has been extracted."


    T''Challa gave his father a proud smile as the arguments in the council ceased, the majority praising his decision, their loyalty visibly rising with such wise judgment.


    Wakanda would remain ascendant.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Mystique was annoyed, she double checked her orders, a frown on her face.


    Why did Hammer have to be so obstinate? Did he really think she wouldn''t find out and report it to Erik? She might not be able to infiltrate the upper echelons of his organization due to all the crazy obstacles they''d put in place to verify their staff on a daily basis.


    But a regular low level grunt did not face that kind of scrutiny, she had no problem walking in and out and finding out information, even if it was never the top secret stuff she was so used to getting.


    So Hammer was about to provide an arsenal of highly effective non metal weapons to all comers. That is a remarkably bad decision, she''d thought him smarter after his little chat with Erik.


    She''d have to go after him now, she looked over her orders again, what a pain¡­


    At least Erik just wanted to talk, for now.


    Unfortunate for her however. It was much easier to plan out an assassination than a kidnapping. Especially with someone with such a paranoid level of security as Hammer.


    She''d find a way.


    There was always a way when you were a shapeshifter.


    See you soon, Justin. She thought, licking her lips, she''d make him suffer for making her work for it this hard.


    It was only fair.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin was waiting, filled with anticipation and he admitted, some fear as well. What if something went wrong?


    His plans needed Tony Stark out of the way for maximum success. He could work with him not being captured in Afghanistan, but it would be less than ideal.


    He hadn''t remembered the exact date for his kidnapping, but spying on SI through Bakshi''s HYDRA allies, had gotten him advance notice of the weapons demonstration in Afghanistan.


    So now he was waiting. Impatiently.


    His phone buzzed, and Justin almost knocked it off the desk in his rush to reach it.


    One text from Bakshi filled him with euphoria.


    He''s taken.


    Justin laughed, "It''s my world now! Tony!" He screamed to the ceiling of his penthouse.


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 6: Off with his head!

    £ª£ª£ª


    Virginia ''Pepper'' Potts sighed for the umpteenth time, her eyes losing focus as she attempted once again to catch up on paperwork.


    She''d escaped Stark industries to huddle pathetically in Tony''s Malibu mansion to perform her work. Partly to get away from Obadiah and his constant remarks of her working ''under'' him now. Partly because here, with Jarvis, she didn''t feel so utterly alone and hopeless. Happy would stop by to bring her food sometimes, and they''d all sit and be pathetic together, waiting, hoping.


    Or, like today, trying to do the paperwork she was supposed to finish, she''d never failed a deadline of anything before. It was getting late too, so she''d probably have to sleep over again. She''d feel worse about taking advantage of it - if it didn''t so obviously make Jarvis feel better to not be alone.


    Yet every time she tried to focus, the familiarity of her surroundings inevitably drew her mind elsewhere¡­ She was half tempted to beg Jarvis to finish it for her, it would be the first time ever she''d cheat on her homework, so to speak. And of course that would happen because of Tony, she thought, worry gnawing at her insides.


    "Jarvis, any update on the situation with the military?" She asked, her voice only breaking slightly as she closed her laptop, giving up on work for now. She''d finish it later, Pepper Potts wasn''t a quitter.


    "As you asked, Miss Potts, I directed the email requesting permission to assist in search and rescue to the highest echelons of the Pentagon, bypassing the commander that was stonewalling the request." Jarvis reported, and Pepper could feel hope blooming in her chest for a moment, her hands closing into fists as her heart thundered in her ears, days, for days they''d requested to be allowed to send in a private team to assist with the search. Jarvis had access to Tony''s personal funds, and had agreed with Pepper that they''d hire every mercenary alive if it was necessary.


    Surely someone had a power or something that would help. Pepper knew of mutants through Tony and his government connections, and surely one of them would find Tony if they paid. But the military refused to let anyone join the search. Colonel Rhodes was the only ally they had down there, and he was still constrained by the military.


    Obadiah had refused to release SI funds for the effort when Pepper had asked, wearing a saddened expression on his face that had told her he''d already given up. Pepper had gone to the shooting range right after that meeting, she''d fired and fired until she couldn''t see through the tears. He was not dead! He wasn''t!


    "I am unable to understand their illogical behavior." Jarvis admitted, sounding as frazzled as Pepper had ever heard before. "Sir is of great importance to the military, they should request additional assistance." Pepper''s slight feeling of hope died, as she bowed her head, eyes shut tightly as she listened to Jarvis continuing his report. "The request was denied, and it was accompanied by a request from the White House to stay out of military affairs, that the theater in Afghanistan is too volatile for civilian interference and that the military has things well in hand."


    Pepper let out a breath while trying to hold in a sob. Keep it together! Jarvis is upset enough without you having a breakdown on the couch! She scolded herself mentally. She cleared her throat, blinking tears out of her eyes as she looked directly at one of the cameras she knew Jarvis was watching out of. "Mister Stark was attacked and abducted by terrorists in Afghanistan, they don''t have things well in hand!" She thought out loud for Jarvis benefit, fingers nervously tapping the lid of her closed laptop, "The military failed in protecting him, now they''re stonewalling us from going in and finding him, and at the same time¡­"


    Her eyes found the large flat screen TV, "And at the same time¡­ One day after Mister Stark disappeared, Hammer¡­"


    "You believe the two might have some correlation, Miss Potts?" Jarvis asked.


    Pepper''s eyes narrowed in thought as she watched the news programme airing right that moment, Hammer had once again come out with a new product, having made two breakthrough reveals a day - ever since Tony disappeared. This time the video showed workers easily handling unloading heavy equipment, wearing a simple barebones exoskeleton suit, once again powered by the arc reactor batteries he''d unveiled. The thief¡­ She thought disparagingly.


    "If it''s a coincidence, it''s one hell of a coincidence." She answered Jarvis, following the news programme with distaste, "Did you manage to find out how he pulled off building arc reactor technology without SI''s say so?" She asked.


    Jarvis was silent for a moment, which she interpreted as embarrassment, "Sir never patented the technology." He answered - with, she believed - a hint of exasperation, she was getting good at reading Jarvis - spending all her time here¡­ Pepper continued watching with a grimace as the programme returned to the H-phone and H-tablets they''d been gushing about for a few days and how they''d be able to go up to a year without charging - arc batteries again. There was already a deal in place for HammerTech to provide batteries for home computers as well, so they''d never need to be plugged in at all, just replace the batteries, the power theoretically giving computers an incredible boost in performance and memory according to the salivating experts that had debated it on national news.


    Computer tech still needed to be refined for the new model, but it wouldn''t take long. As it was, computers were obsolete just months after releasing anyway.


    All that and there was still the H-Watch they''d shown in one of their promos, which would be able to receive texts, track your blood pressure and even be able to perform credit/debit transactions, amongst many other features. The business woman in her - applauded his nuclear strike on the tech sector. The suspicious jaded assistant of Tony Stark, thought it was all too convenient. Using Tony''s arc reactor technology in everything right as he conveniently disappeared.


    "He''s an irresponsible idiot!" She groused, feeling a migraine coming on, the worry, the fear, and the extra work Hammer brought on - was not doing wonders for her health.


    "Sir, or Mister Hammer?" Jarvis snarked at her. Almost managing a laugh out of her. Because that did fit them both to a tee. Not patenting the arc reactor? Irresponsible idiot! She couldn''t help but think, but with a hint of melancholy. Her boss was an idiot, no doubt. But he needed to be an idiot here, back where he belonged.


    "Hammer this time, Jarvis." She answered the AI after a moment, sighing as she sunk back into the couch cushions, feeling depressed all over again. The world was going up in flames. Had Hammer not realized what he would do? Or did he just not care?


    She thought back to the first reveal, a week ago¡­ The arc reactor plant in Texas. Green, practically unlimited energy for the masses. The technology behind all his other advances due to being able to create batteries to hold that energy and power them.


    And it had thrown the world into chaos. "What is the latest on the riots, Jarvis? How many¡­ Lost?" She asked, feeling almost faint.


    "... The latest count by the red cross is 871 believed dead, tens of thousands injured. It is not a confirmed number due to the situation and could in reality be lower, Miss Potts." Jarvis reported softly, what a sweetie, trying to soften the blow¡­ Pepper thought fondly, even as she cursed Hammer out again in her thoughts.


    Already the auto industry was knocking down his door to get arc batteries for study to revamp the auto industry, electric cars were suddenly very viable. No different was the interest from the transportation sector, including by air and sea. Gas stations would possibly be a thing of the past within the decade killing thousands of jobs - not to mention the jobs from the oil industry, coal industry, and all energy related jobs, including the whole logistics chain and suppliers for those sectors¡­ The middle east was on fire right now, as people rioted and protested Hammer industries, the oil and gas sector taking a major hit since the news, their stock tanking, middle class citizens losing their sure bet rainy day holdings - as the stock market went haywire, people selling off stock in a mad rush to not be stuck holding on to something worthless, even though it would take decades to fully turn away from oil.


    They''d immediately realized they''d be obsolete within a not so distant future and everyone was panicking, people and companies both. Unlimited energy having only one source - and its keys were in the hands of one man with the death of millions of jobs hanging like a cloud over the world economy.


    Already one despot in the middle east had been overthrown as heavy oil profits subsidizing their nation suddenly did not seem like something one could bet the future on anymore. Pepper believed in Democracy of course, but so far in that change, all she could see was death, looting and chaos. Even America was not unharmed, people rioting against the change, whether egged on through disinformation campaigns on the safety of Arc technology or simply to protest anything that would change their way of life.


    Washington D.C was practically locked down, inundated by miners, oil workers and truckers.


    There was a reason why Tony did not just release everything that popped into his head. Some things would have horrific consequences across the world. Hammer''s reaction to the chaos in the middle east had been to promise them Hammer Industries factories to replace the jobs they''d lose in the oil industry, ever the opportunist - like some self serving promises would stem the chaos.


    Hammer had been too slick in all he''d done for her taste, rolling over the energy sector in one move, possibly destroying thousands of jobs immediately, millions to come. Posting videos online (Who does that!?) of new weapons, energy shields and tasers for the police, energy weapons, tanks and armor for the military, Stark industries stock was tanking - with Tony missing and their biggest competitor outshining them in every way they were going through their darkest time in history.


    It was all too perfect. With Arc technology behind it all, it was like it was all tailor made to attack SI and the name Stark. If Tony didn''t get back¡­ SI wouldn''t survive.


    It was hard to not suspect Hammer¡­ Even Obadiah had commented on it.


    "Jarvis, could you research the possibility Justin Hammer had anything to do with Mister Stark''s disappearance?" She asked, eyes zeroing on the man in question, as he appeared on the screen, being interviewed on Letterman.


    Pepper would scream if the arrogant man had yet another invention to drop to further fuel the mania of the world. Enough people were dying right now, he didn''t need to add more fuel to the fire.


    "The probability that Mister Hammer is behind at least the President intervening to stop any form of assistance in Afghanistan is 97.3821 percent, Miss Potts." Jarvis admitted after a moments of thought, likely double checking everything they had on him, "President Ellis received a rather heavy contribution from Mister Hammer through a SuperPac and Mister Hammer has been seen at events featuring the president, furthermore, when I as requested researched the Arc reactor technology patent, I found that Mister Hammer received 30 patents, all classified under national security, likely including the arc reactor - the day after President Ellis was sworn in."


    Jarvis gave Pepper a moment to take it all in, her suspicions practically confirmed. Then she waved him on, her blood pressure rising as she tried to hold back her rage that people had been bought to block them from helping Tony. The same government that Tony had delivered weapons to.


    "Notably, The two new members of the joint Chiefs and the Secretary of defense appointed by President Ellis shortly before sir''s disappearance - were all men known to not be very fond of sir." Jarvis continued his tone slightly chilly at the idea they disapproved of Tony.


    Pepper bit her nail, countenance stormy, that clinched it, didn''t it? "So he''s either taken advantage of the situation to keep Mister Stark away or he created the situation, or both¡­" She theorized out loud. Either way, the bastard needed to pay for what he''s done. At the very least he''s definitely behind blocking any further assistance being sent to Afghanistan.


    At least it pointed in that direction, and Pepper knew how cutthroat the business world could get - it all made sense.


    She''d always ignored it when Tony got going about him, it had felt off-putting when Tony had put down Justin Hammer before, but now she felt he hadn''t been harsh enough on the despicable man.


    "I can find no evidence of Mister Hammer having any presence or contact with anyone in Afghanistan, but that does not mean he is not involved, I admit sir has been keeping a close eye on his business transactions, perhaps a motive for revenge?" Jarvis said in a considered tone.


    "Can you send all you have to my laptop, I want to look it over, see if there''s anything you might have missed." Pepper asked, receiving an automatic confirmation from the AI. It was unlikely he''d missed anything, but Pepper had run into occurrences where the AI simply misunderstood something due to humans'' inherent complexity before.


    Especially as his number one model for humanity was Tony¡­


    Either way, she was almost certain Justin Hammer was behind the terrorist attack as well now that she thought about it. Why else drop all of these new inventions now? He''d been building up for awhile hadn''t he? All in preparation for this¡­ It had all been planned for precisely Tony''s absence, she felt it in her bones. She couldn''t prove it, but she was sure she must be right.


    She noticed the commotion on the TV out of the corner of her eye, Letterman seemingly speechless, she asked Jarvis to turn the volume up as she put her full attention on the TV screen, wondering what the irritating fop had done now.


    And how many would die because of his irresponsible business practices this time.


    "- Not to worry, President Ellis has assured me that FDA approval will be speedily delivered for the miracle healing treatment Panacea. Due to the concern of hostile actors attempting to reverse engineer, supress or poison the process, it will be delivered entirely in Hammer Industries run clinics - under the brand of HammerHealth - instead of through the local healthcare systems."


    Letterman stopped gaping, seemingly getting over his shock at the bomb Hammer had dropped on his show, as he began straightening his tie, coughing lightly to clear his throat as he obviously (to Pepper) tried to center himself - before he asked another question, "And this has been tested? You have to admit, it sounds kind of unbelievable, everyone has heard about some sort of miracle drug before - it''s never panned out."


    Justin Hammer smirked arrogantly, placing one leg over his knee as he gestured with one hand. "Absolutely, I''ve even taken it myself already." He admitted, to loud gasps from the audience, Hammer raising his hands placatingly, "No need to worry, it''s perfectly safe, Panacea - 1 will work like a vaccine, preventing you from getting a cold, the flu, any STD, once you''ve taken it, you''re safe." He said with flourish, his smirk widening at the reaction from the crowd, "Panacea - 2 will cure liver disease, kidney disease and most similar diseases, including all forms of cancer."


    Pepper put a hand to her head, feeling woozy from just how sick she felt from that revelation. It was good for the world¡­ In theory, but the way he was doing this¡­ This stupid arrogant donkey! He couldn''t literally do it a dumber way if he tried, this would just further the same problem! Entire industries would fall apart, people would be healed, perhaps, and then face homelessness!!


    "Panacea - 3 will regrow limbs, cure dementia, Alzheimer''s and other degenerative diseases. It''s a game changer and only Hammer industries and its new subsidiary HammerHealth can deliver." Justin finished, the noise in the studio almost deafening as people shouted questions, or demanded access immediately for loved ones.


    Hammer just smirked, his glasses glinting as he looked into the camera, speaking over the crowd, "Ask the FDA and Congress, they''re holding it back, not me."


    Pepper just couldn''t¡­ You don''t call out government agencies like that, not as a businessman... She ignored the nagging thought in the back of her head that Tony would have done the exact same thing to purposely piss off Congress¡­


    She''d grudgingly admit it would probably work in this instance, so Hammer''s intelligence wasn''t in question, just his character. People would not stand for such a miracle to be held from them for long. Every person dying from cancer would have loved ones battering down the walls of every government facility across the world, blaming them for holding it up.


    Politicians would fold, no one wanted grieving widows and orphaned children picketing their offices - it was a bad look.


    Letterman finally managed to get the crowd to quiet down, looking more shocked than Pepper had ever seen him before, even beating out when Tony had been on the show and casually announced his sex tape to pre-empt the person trying to blackmail him from gaining anything from releasing it themselves. "How expensive will this all be? I mean, Justin, you''re waving the holy grail in front of folks here!" Letterman asked. "Is this stuff even affordable? I mean a miracle treatment isn''t much use to folks if it''s a million bucks!"


    "Panacea - 1 will not be too harsh on your wallets, but the rest will be expensive unfortunately." Justin admitted, smiling smarmily as he raised a hand to prevent an explosion of noise, "That said, anyone employed by Hammer industries or any of its subsidiaries get it for free and we are hiring everywhere for every position... Likewise I''ve created a global insurance company that will, as part of its first year promotion, and for the first year only - offer a free shot of any Panacea treatment you desire, if you sign up for the bundle, house, car, health and life insurance." He winked at the audience, "It''s just started, so give it some time to get going before you all call, by the by - or go to HammerCare.com to sign up and someone will contact you as soon as we are staffed up. If you happen to work for an insurance company anywhere in the world, now''s the time to see the writing on the wall, call Hammer industries or contact our insurance subsidiary at HammerCare.com, we''ll take all of you."


    Pepper felt like she would choke at the audacity of the man. He''d just destroyed the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare industry in one swoop, and he was trying to monopolize the insurance industry as well? It wasn''t enough that he''d already upended the Energy industry, that he''d be dominant in the Tech and Auto industry? The amount of jobs that will be destroyed within the year because of his all or nothing approach! The economic impact, the social impacts, does he have any idea of what kind of shit storm he''s started!? Wars will break out because of the upheaval he''s beginning.


    Did he really not realize the consequences, or does he not care? Tony had his issues¡­ But he would never shatter the world just to push his products forward, that''s why so many of them were nothing but files on a computer.


    You can''t just replace several sectors from the economy and expect society to go along like normal, there would be massive upheaval. SI would have to weather the storm somehow, Pepper had a feeling she''d be drowning in work in the near future, even though her position was technically in limbo right now - it would be all hands on deck.


    God¡­ If Obadiah was watching this, he''d likely be frothing by the mouth by now. SI was being swept away in the backdraft of a rising giant.


    "Jarvis¡­ What''s the stock market like?" She asked with trepidation, because part of her didn''t want to know.


    Lights flickered in the ceiling suddenly, the TV showing static. She frowned, "Jarvis?"


    "M-mi-Miss Po-Pottts." Came the broken up response, followed by an electronic whine that made her clap her hands around her ears. Lightbulbs exploded over her head as the TV screen went completely blank, the Malibu mansion descending into darkness.


    "Jarvis! What''s happening!?" She shrieked as she stumbled to her feet, her ears ringing.


    There was no response, and before she could get her bearings, the large windows giving a beautiful view of the bay - were smashed in, glass flying everywhere as she screamed in fright - a squad of men dressed fully in black, their faces covered by tactical helmets entered the building via repelling from the roof, her last thought before she was hit by a dart, losing consciousness - was wondering who the hell Shield was and why they were attacking her.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin leaned back in his chair in his Manhattan office. It wasn''t nearly luxurious enough, but he was holding out for the alien invasion to get more space in New York to build a proper headquarters.


    One a couple floors taller than Stark Tower of course.


    Things were going extremely well. For him. The world wasn''t taking it so well, but he''d expected that. Change was scary, so all the neanderthals would riot and protest and be their ineffectual selves. It didn''t concern him, once they were done throwing a hissy fit, he''d just swoop in and hire everyone, even if he had to create a dummy corporation just to create busy work to have an excuse to hire more people he''d still do it, what did it matter if he lost money on it - what mattered was getting as many people invested in his business as possible by getting them loyal to him.


    These riots, attacks, protests, they wouldn''t achieve anything.


    It wouldn''t harm him, every government in the world was melting his phone lines trying to get him. Wanting arc reactors for their nations. Weapons for their armies. Panacea for their people. It was almost too easy. With the Auto industry and the largest computer companies of the world begging at his feet for arc tech as well, he felt invincible.


    It had never been about the money, although it was definitely useful and would help him towards his goals - it had been about the power.


    The president of the United States of America called him. Not the other way around. Of course the fool was worried about the short term pain of the changes to the economy - worried about his ratings. Like four years or eight mattered. Justin would be remembered for centuries.


    Either way he''d promised him another fat payday for his re-election campaign and fobbed him off on Bakshi to discuss coordinating plans for the public response. He wanted to bask in the silence, just feeling the smug satisfaction of a plan well executed.


    Everything had gone perfectly.


    Well¡­ Almost everything. He thought, frowning slightly, when his men had raided Jarvis, both in the Malibu home and his server farms, he hadn''t expected Pepper to be there. At least his men had been gentle with her, he could admit he admired her in a way, for everything except her unreasonable infatuation with the man child.


    At least her presence meant he wouldn''t have to work too hard to blame the whole operation on SHIELD. None of his men were blatantly masquerading as their operators of course, but here and there, his team''s would have a man who forgot a detail somewhere on their uniform. It would hopefully have been noticeable enough.


    He hummed in thought, now that he was on that train of thought anyway¡­ He pressed a button on his phone, the speed dial immediately going as he spun his chair lazily.


    "Da?" The heavily accented voice came from the speaker.


    "Ivan you wonderful beast of a man, any preliminary reports yet?" Justin called out cheerfully.


    A grunt came over the speaker, "Programming not as good, can do, but take time, very well done, maybe too well." Vanko answered, sounding distracted.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Justin didn''t like hearing that, his chair stopping in its rotation as he leaned over the phone, "I thought you said that if I got you a copy of the J.A.R.V.I.S. program you''d be able to make me a copy?"


    He could hear the shrug over the line, the man answering verbally shortly thereafter, "I maybe exaggerate tiny bit, not expect so good work, very difficult."


    "How long, Ivan?" Justin asked, brows furrowed. Maybe everything wasn''t going his way after all. He needed an AI, both for security reasons and for the administration of his business empire, he didn''t have enough people he could truly trust to run things, he needed an AI to handle the workload.


    "Eh¡­ If not do anything else¡­ Six months." Ivan replied, for once not sounding happy, it seemed the Russian wasn''t pleased that Tony Stark was so obviously superior in something.


    Justin rubbed his face, six months of Vanko working on nothing else was a catastrophic loss. He needed him to keep upgrading and maintaining the suits. To continue to upgrade Hammer industries security and to build more cradles - although he could probably start finding someone else for that... He needed him to craft something to protect his mind, like Magneto except not as¡­ Obvious. He had let it fall to the wayside since no one had a reason to go after him too strongly. But his knowledge on mutants was not as strong as he''d like, and he didn''t know if anyone other than Xavier and Jean were telepathic.


    He felt fairly safe from them, the good guys wouldn''t mind fuck a business magnate. They needed good press too much. But what if someone else could do it? He chewed on a nail thinking about it.


    "No¡­ Leave it for now. Concentrate on what you already have." Justin ordered, disregarding his own AI for now. Once Samuel Stern got a brain upgrade, it would take the man literally a day to become the world''s best programmer or something. He''d use that man to fix up a Hammer loyal AI.


    Once he''d determined the man''s loyalty. A rogue AI was not something he wanted anywhere near his planet.


    "Da, when Nobel prize?" Ivan agreed and switched the subject at the same time.


    Justin let out a huff of amusement, looking forward to seeing Vanko accept his nobel prize in a greasy tank top and with tattoos on display, "Soon buddy, it''s only been a week, it will come, go have a bottle of vodka or something, my treat."


    A snort came over the speaker, "All is your treat, you sugar daddy, is saying, da?"


    Justin shuddered, feeling dirty, "Never call me that again, alright buddy? Or your Whiplash privileges will be grounded, alright." He trailed off, realizing what he''d just said, and rested his head against the desk, just barely avoiding the compulsion to slam his head repeatedly against it.


    "Whatever say¡­ Daddy." Vanko replied, chortling as he hung up.


    Phantazia who had been sitting in the corner, reading a magazine, covered her mouth with one hand, her snickers audible as Justin gave her an irritated look.


    "Glad to see you''re able to laugh." He said snarkily, to the usually composed woman.


    She simply raised an eyebrow in amusement, going back to her magazine instead of replying, some quiet snickers, barely audible, coming from her corner for a few minutes.


    Justin shook his head, turning to his monitor, bringing up his email, getting started on the literal mountain of emails he''d received. They''d been on a hiring binge for the last couple months, to fill all the empty factories and buildings they''d built, but he was still missing a lot of upper management, so now he got a lot of the reports someone else really should take care of.


    He''d use Bakshi, but unfortunately he needed the man to deal with all the incoming politicians and businessmen that he just couldn''t be arsed to deal with until they actually had a deal or something concrete to offer him.


    He saw an email from Frost industries and immediately deleted it after reading it, wondering how they got his company email already. Like hell he was going to discuss anything with a competitor. If they wanted any of his tech, they could buy it for full price from his factories. He didn''t know why they wanted to meet him so badly, the email had been almost simpering, and had included a picture of Emma Frost, for some reason - the heir of the business empire. Very beautiful no doubt, but Justin was not actually that easy, media reports and rumors aside.


    If they were angling for a marriage and a merger, they were really delusional, no matter how beautiful Emma Frost was, that was just never going to happen. "Have you ever done any mercenary work for Frost?" Justin asked Phantazia, his fingers tapping his keyboard as he stared at his screen. There was just something funny about that email. Surely they hadn''t expected that to work?


    Phantazia opened her mouth to answer when Domino literally burst through the door, the security team hot on her heels. "Boss! Incoming kill squads!" She shouted, gun in her hand.


    Phantazia immediately had weapons in her hands, pulling Justin ahead of her, towards Domino, making him duck as she covered him from any possible sniper through the window with her body.


    "What the hell? Who?" Justin complained, finding himself escorted through the hallway moments later, his security team all around him, Domino taking the lead and Phantazia bringing up the rear.


    "Some old Merc buddies reached out to me, warning me, Roxxon and Oscorp both have a hit out on you, and their teams are already on route, the fact you''re finally in one place long enough was too tempting of a target, they might already be here with how late I got the warning." Domino spat out, eyes sharp as she led us down, the building alarms were already ringing, telling all staff to evacuate.


    Justin really felt he should have invested in a secret elevator down from his office, or a helipad¡­ This is why he needed a proper office!


    "Wait, if they''re coming here¡­?" Justin realized, "Maya Hansen is on the 13th floor going over the hiring of new scientists for her department! She can not be a casualty!" He demanded determinedly. She was too useful, her intimate knowledge of Extremis, or Panacea as it was rebranded - could not be replaced easily. Not to mention her ongoing research on the super soldier serum.


    Even worse than killing her¡­ What if someone abducted her!?


    "You can not be serious right now, boss." Phantazia snapped from behind him, her eyes never leaving their rear as she walked backwards. "Two kill squads." She stressed, with a growl. "That we know of!!"


    "One of you is getting Maya out of here, take half the squad with you." Justin ordered coldly. He had Extremis, he''d be fine. Really, they were blowing this out of proportion. It was just regular humans coming for him, not his worst case scenario of Magneto or the like.


    Domino and Phantazia both hissed out something at the same time, the meaning drowned out by the alarms. Justin understood the rude meaning all the same.


    "Fine!" Phantazia said angrily, pointing at a couple of the security team, "You, you and you, with me, we shoot anything that gets in the way that''s not Maya Hansen, got it!?" As they all begin to run off, no doubt to chance the elevator down to reach Maya quicker, she turned and pointed at Domino, "You don''t let him die until I get my chance to beat his ass for being this stupid, got it!?"


    "You and me both." Domino answered back, for once not laughing or joking around, her pissed visage meeting Justin''s for a moment, before she returned to business. The three remaining team members moving around Justin to cover him in a triangle formation, weapons ready.


    "Why don''t we just take an elevator as well?" Justin asked, getting annoyed after the fourth flight of stairs they''d taken, shortly after - his security team jumping at every shadow.


    "If they''re attacking the building, if they have any sense at all, the first thing they''ll do is take control of the system, it''s what I would do." Domino answered snappishly, poking her head around a corner, waving them on when she found nothing amiss.


    "Then why did Phantazia risk it?" Justin asked, starting to feel that he might have miscalculated with how enraged Domino seemed to be. They weren''t really in any danger¡­ Right? With Extremis and energy weapons, what could they really do against them?


    Domino swore under her breath, "She risked it because she isn''t the target, and because you ordered one of us to do it and with my luck, I''m more useful next to you." She said quietly, holding a hand up closed into a fist, all of us coming to a stop. "Do any of you hear that?" She asked in a whisper.


    All of us stand still in complete silence, listening. Suddenly Domino moves, knocking Justin down just as a spear almost guts him, one of his security team hitting the floor, head cut off at the same time, two enemies appearing on both sides of the hallway.


    One of them made a move towards Domino but stumbled into the wall, having slipped on some loose flooring.


    "Wakandans¡­" Justin cursed, seeing the armor and the technology - paired with primitive weapons. What the fuck was Wakanda doing here? He couldn''t help but think, he hadn''t even touched any Vibranium from Klaue yet. Had Klaue sold him out? And invisibility tech? Did they have that in the movies? He didn''t remember people doing it, only their aircraft.


    Then things took a turn for the worse, as soldiers dressed in dark green bodysuits and cybernetic looking armor appeared at the end of the hallway, firing at both the Wakandans and Justin''s team, Justin recognized those guns and that armor, it was his business after all to recognize those kinds of things. Oscorp had discontinued the line of weaponry because they inevitably heated up and exploded due to their explosive ammunition. By happenstance all the bullets coming their way just happened to hit Wakandan spears instead of him and Domino and either deflecting back before exploding, or exploding at contact - forcing the Wakandan war dogs to defend instead of pressing the attack as they got pushed away from Justin.


    "Fuck, Oscorp is here already!" Domino shouted, shoving Justin into an adjacent room, a spear going for her missing - as the Wakandan accidentally got smacked in the face by the other war dog''s spear as he moved to defend himself from the bullets using his cloak and its inbuilt shielding. Only one other member of Justin''s team made it in with them, the other cut down from a combined attack of Wakandan spears and Oscorp fire as the two War dogs from the back of the hallway rushed into close quarters.


    "That guy has a missile launcher!" Their one remaining guard said, horrified. Domino simply fired out the door, the bullet ricocheting impossibly and soon there was an explosion down the hallway, Justin knowing his weapons, theorized she must have managed to shoot it straight down the barrel to impact the ordinance within - which was absolutely insane on a ricochet shot.


    Who even brought a missile launcher into a building with close quarters fighting anyway!?


    Extremis isn''t very useful if you have several people trying to rip you apart. Justin thought with trepidation, realizing he''d been too cavalier about the threat. Seeing two men with Extremis going down in seconds due to expert attacks made him feel slightly less invulnerable.


    He hadn''t expected this kind of backlash. Assassination yes, but not several teams of this kind of quality and tech, not a full out attack on his headquarters. Where were the regular security teams? Could they even do anything? Had they been taken out in secret?


    "Eileen! Could really use a fucking hand up here!" Domino shouted into the radio.


    £ª£ª£ª


    On the 13th floor, Phantazia chuckled humorlessly, pushing a terrified Maya Hansen down the garbage chute, sending one of the soldiers with her, sans gear because of his size, before turning to face the Roxxon hit squad from one side, and yet another hitman from the other.


    The other two were already dead, Extremis didn''t help very much for one''s head exploding apparently, the shots coming quicker then Phantazia had been able to react. Of course competent enemies would take the knowledge of Panacea to mean a kill shot would have to be complete brain destruction. She hated competent enemies.


    Whether they were here for Maya, or just cleaning up before hitting Hammer, she didn''t know, but she had her orders. So Maya was temporarily safe now,  so she could do her thing¡­


    How many people were wanting to kill her meal ticket anyway? And how on earth had they managed to all pick the same place and time to dance? "Sorry, my dance card is kind of full, you''re lucky aren''t you? So get lucky and get out of it!" She said through the radio on her belt, before turning it off. "Can''t convince you to take a payment to drop the contract, can I?" She asked Bullseye, the red armored mercenaries from Roxxon watching them both warily, fingers on the triggers.


    At least they were only skilled normals, nothing special. Someone at Roxxon must have panicked, sent out some normies instead of hiring quality.


    But someone had tried to go the other route¡­ Who? She wondered.


    Bullseye chuckled, standing at the other end of the hallway, wearing a tacky trench coat getup. "Now, you know that''s not how it works, sweetheart."


    Faster than the normal eye could see, a projectile was launched, but Phantazia had already been prepared and moved before that even happened, having seen him waste her two guards in a second. The shot missed, even as the hit squad on the other side found to their confusion that none of their weapons worked any longer, as they tried to take advantage of the hostilities beginning. Her power disabled it all.


    "What did you DO!?" Bullseye screamed in anger, a vein bulging on his forehead, highlighting the tacky tattoo on it. She didn''t know who hired him, but they made a very big mistake sending someone with the power to never miss, against someone that messed with powers and could mess with someone''s coordination.


    Phantazia smirked superiorly, "I made you miss. Why? Didn''t enjoy it?" She taunted, letting out a sharp mocking laugh to rub salt in the wound.


    The squad behind her had dropped their weapons now, rushing in for hand to hand combat, even as Bullseye drew several throwing knives with a manic glint in his eyes, ready for round two, somehow expecting a different result.


    Men, they just weren''t capable of realizing their inferiority.


    Phantazia clicked on the radio again, cool as a cucumber, "Actually, give me¡­" She thought about it as the thundering feet approached from behind her, "Three minutes tops, then I''ll be on my way up." She told Domino.


    "Maybe two." She amended, as she flexed her power, the squad behind her all falling into each other as their limbs started misfiring randomly as they lost all coordination.


    She smiled beatifically at Bullseye. "You will last two minutes at least, right?" She made his hands twitch, forcing him to drop the weapons he''d pulled, "Give me at least that much of a work out, won''t you, weakling?"


    £ª£ª£ª


    "We''re in a bad spot here, Boss." Domino said, guns facing the only door into the room. They''d escaped the crossfire situation, but also locked themselves in without an escape route.


    "Would your probability power handle going out the window?" Justin asked, holding a gun nervously, he''d never had to face actual battle before, but he knew how to shoot.


    Domino shrugged, "Mine sure, but I doubt it would handle you, it''s not completely foolproof you know, and 30 something floors is a bit much."


    "Why is it silent?" The remaining guard whispered, fingering his energy rifle, he''d held up remarkably well so far, never losing his nerve, Justin had done the right thing in mostly hiring veterans.


    Domino twitched, scrunching up her nose cutely, "I hate smart enemies," She concluded, having realized something we hadn''t. "They''re both here after you, they''re likely saving themselves the trouble of fighting each other and negotiating a truce to spend their efforts on getting to you."


    Right then we got the broadcast from Phantazia, Domino taking it in with a shake of her head, "That girl, she made it sound like she was in trouble for no reason it seems." To Justin she sounded relieved, and here he''d thought they just needled each other all the time.


    Justin was feeling marginally better at the news, but not by much, Phantazia being good down there, didn''t necessarily mean much for him up here yet.


    "Hey!" A voice called from outside the door. "We have reinforcements incoming, you''re surrounded, don''t shoot, we''re just coming in to talk, see if we can negotiate something, it''s us or the spears, take your pick."


    Justin glanced at Domino, who shrugged, guns pointing at the door, giving him the option to answer.


    "We won''t shoot if you don''t." Justin called back, any stalling worked for him, Phantazia would be back and make these guys obsolete. He really wished he''d prioritized himself over Maya right about now.


    The door opened, the Wakandan War dogs could be seen standing behind the mercenaries, Justin had no idea what they were after with this, or why they''d allow the mercenaries to negotiate, did they just want the two groups to wipe each other out? He wondered.


    Or¡­ They all wanted to stall too¡­ Which would mean bad things for Justin.


    Apparently the fight outside had left only three mercenaries left alive to match the three of them in the room. Two walked in the door with a third trailing behind, the third one was the one who had spoken, Justin was fairly certain of that.


    Without warning the third kicked the door closed behind them, making everyone flinch, but before anyone could fire, he blew the brains out of both mercenaries ahead of him, Domino and his sole remaining guard both squaring their weapons at him as Justin looked on in absolute confusion.


    Then the mercenary changed, and Mystique stood there, holding the two guns in her hands and an absolutely disgusted look on her face, "You know, when a girl comes to see you, she doesn''t like seeing that you''ve invited every Tom, Dick and Harry to have a party, Justin." She quipped, sashaying forward, dropping the two guns, at Domino''s gesture, sticking her tongue out at the bodyguard.


    "Why are you here, Mystique!?" Justin asked, wondering if he''s dreaming up this entire ridiculous day.


    "I''m here to kidnap you actually." Mystique said casually, leaning against the table, arms crossed under her breasts. "Then all of those guys showed up," She tilted her head back towards the Wakandans who were strangely not doing anything. "Couldn''t let them all kill you, I''d get scolded, way too much of a hassle."


    Domino laughed, relaxing slightly, her eyes and guns still facing the door even so, "Only you boss, only you." She said, shaking her head. "Keep your eye on the prize, Watson, she''s alright. For now." She ordered the remaining squad member.


    Justin sighed, "Look, if Magneto had a problem with how I''m delivering weapons, he shouldn''t have threatened a weapons developer." He told Mystique, feeling sweat on his brow, he was feeling a lot more vulnerable now to any retaliation now that he saw how even mundane retaliation was more dangerous than he''d imagined.


    Mystique stretched like a cat, letting out a thoughtful hum, "Huh, is that really it? You were feeling tiny, so you made a big strong thick gun to keep you all safe and snuggly?"


    "Is this really the time?" Watson snapped, obviously a bit on edge with how almost half his team died in the space of a minute. Maybe he hadn''t been as cool and composed as Justin had thought.


    Justin''s cheek twitched in irritation, "If that is how you want to put it." He growled out, even as Domino chuckled and gave Mystique an appreciative wink. They all ignored Watson.


    "The boss might take that, we''ll see." Mystique said nonchalantly, wagging a finger in Justin''s face, "But no more moves against him specifically, or we might begin to take it personally."


    Justin nodded, his hands aching with how harshly they''d been holding onto his gun. "Just like that?" He asked, not sure if he believed it.


    Mystique laughed, "Oh, honey, we''ve survived for a long time without the world being aware, did you think we could do that if we just fought everyone that had an issue? We can be very reasonable." She tapped her lip with a finger, smirking, "To a point. Let''s not have this chat again, there''s so much more we could do together¡­"


    "Hate to break off you two eye fucking each other, but¡­ Anyone else wondering why we aren''t being attacked?" Domino asked, tilting her head, listening for any sound from the hallway.


    "Hmm, I lied about the reinforcements, but the ones outside with the snazzy spears shouldn''t have given up so easily." Mystique added, hopping up on the table, flexing her legs without concern, "What a mystery." She said with a grin.


    We all slowly looked at each other, before Domino gave Watson a nod, the soldier moving to the door, Domino moving into a firing angle, Mystique waving her legs in the air as she calmly occupied the table.


    In one smooth movement, Watson opened the door as Domino was ready to fire, only to find nothing.


    What the fuck happened? Did they run away? When they had us cornered? Justin thought, turning to eye Mystique thoughtfully, And god dammit I owe her one now, don''t I?


    Mystique met his eyes smugly.


    Yes. He did.


    ¡­ Fucking Wakanda¡­


    £ª£ª£ª


    They barely managed to leave the office before the radio clicked on, Phantazia''s voice coming through, "Hey, boss, hopefully you''re still alive, if you are, uh, just wanted to let you know I just wasted a guy fighting with a spear of all things, after he planted some sort of funky looking bomb."


    Everyone''s eyes turned to Mystique who sighed dramatically, snapping her fingers, "Damn, so close to getting credit for them just disappearing." She joked, looking completely unrepentant at our judging stares.


    "10-4 heading down, meet us at stairwell C." Domino snapped off, grabbing Justin''s arm and starting to run, they had no idea how many bombs had been placed and when they would go off.


    Mystique waved a cheeky goodbye to them as she took off to take another exit, blowing Justin a kiss just before disappearing, moving faster than humanly possible. Justin just knew she would be out long before them, he''d gotten off easy he knew. Things could have been a lot worse. He''d thought he''d prepared, but it only took being separated from one of his bodyguards to turn everything into a potential disaster. His arrogance had almost killed him. Still could, depending on how bad these - likely Vibranium tech bombs - would go off.


    They met up with Phantazia, Watson ducking his head in silence when he saw that she was alone. Justin decided he''d have to do something nice for his only survivor, if nothing else it would make it more likely his other teams on the security rotation would not get too disparagated - if they saw the potential rewards for surviving to get Justin out.


    "I''ve seen two bombs already, but none of the spear wielding freaks, they''re likely on their way out, if they get out before us¡­" Phantazia called out, we sped up even more at that, the Extremis treatment I and Watson had gone through giving us the stamina to handle it, while Domino and Phantazia were mutant mercenaries that could easily outpace most normals.


    "They''re likely going for the roof, it''s probably how they got in." Justin said as they flew through floor five, almost all the way down now. "They have stealth tech aircraft." He added, trying to put on every bit of speed he had in him.


    They made it to the fourth floor, then the third. Suddenly without warning, Justin was shoved out of the third floor window by Domino, the woman stumbling out after him, barely missing a spear that instead sunk into Watson''s throat.


    If that was her luck power working - It kind of sucked for Watson, but she saved Justin so he wasn''t too bothered, he could survive a three floor fall, easily.


    Phantazia took one look at the situation and jumped out as well. Justin didn''t know what she saw as he was already hitting the ground, feeling bones snap due to his awkward landing and just as quickly realigning and healing as he coughed out blood, groaning in momentary pain, Domino landing next to him¡­ Onto a flatbed that was transporting mattresses¡­


    So her luck didn''t completely spread to the person she protected, good to know, he thought, rolling over, glass shards cutting into him.


    Apparently not all Wakandans had retreated, they''d planted bombs, and a squad had gone down below to prevent them from running out, that''s why they''d been fine with stalling upon encountering other teams¡­ At least Watson would survive a cut throat, he thought, as Phantazia expertly hit the mattresses as well, coming out of her fall without a hair out of place.


    If there was any mutation any mutant had, it was the supernatural ability to always look good no matter what happened. Justin was not jealous¡­ Not too much.


    Maybe just a little.


    Before Watson could fall down to them, the building exploded with a deafening roar, everyone flinching back from the debris about to hit them, before the building seemingly imploded on itself, every piece of the building sucking itself in until there was nothing left of the building except the basement levels.


    Right in time for EMS to arrive. That was a ridiculously bad response time, Justin needed to complain to city hall. He was definitely supposed to get preferred service, he was pretty sure.


    "What the fuck!"


    Justin echoed his bodyguards exclamations at what had just happened. That had been insane¡­ He wanted one of those bombs to look at now¡­


    Also, that would have definitely killed him. Fuck.


    He needed to reprioritize some things.


    And figure out what the fuck Wakanda thought they were doing before they tried again.


    He was interrupted by a phone call, heh, his phone had survived all that. He fished it out of his pocket while his bodyguards played interference with the emergency services.


    "Bakshi, talk to me." Justin said, beginning to walk away from any prying ears, before spotting the absolutely intense look from Phantazia at him beginning to walk away from his bodyguards, which froze him to the spot, as he decided to simply speak in a much lower tone. "Don''t tell me if it''s bad news, please." He joked, feeling wrung out.


    There was a pause on the other end, before Bakshi spoke up hesitantly, "The HYDRA team sent to retrieve you didn''t get you, that''s¡­ The good news."


    Justin resisted the urge to go find a very hard surface to slam his head into repeatedly, "Are you kidding me buddy, I''m not in the mood for jokes right now!?" Was all he could say. The utter realization he''d fucked up on anticipating just how badly the world would respond to him flipping the board all at once - hitting him where it hurt. His ego.


    Bakshi remained silent, perhaps understanding Justin''s pain - or simply polite enough to wait for him to get over himself. "Ugh, this has been a day, fine¡­ Tell me about HYDRA and how they missed this¡­ " Justin looked around, seeing the missing headquarters and hundreds of staff members milling around looking shocked, "Terrific house party." At least he spotted Maya in the crowd, so she had gotten out before the Wakandans got to the bottom floors, good.


    "I was contacted by a superior in the organization who wanted a real time update on your whereabouts, telling me they were bringing you in to shake you until all your secrets fell out." Bakshi reported dryly, "For whatever reason, they were of the belief that you had fooled me with false reports this entire time rather than the obvious conclusion of you flipping me."


    Justin couldn''t help but chuckle at the idiocy, "Ah, your HYDRA station chief is certainly a product of the SHIELD academy," He drawled, clearing some dirt off his tie. "Of course fifty to sixty percent of your reports being falsified just means you''re an idiot, not a traitor, they''ve gotten too used to fools."


    There was a long pause before Bakshi continued, "Yes¡­ I directed the team to the safehouse in Jersey currently occupied by the Vulture and Scorpion, they¡­ Did not die well."


    "Was it contained?" Justin asked immediately.


    Bakshi made an agreeing noise, "The team was eradicated immediately and the safe house abandoned, as far as I''m aware there was no exposure, the ''fight'' was over too quickly."


    Justin let out a sigh of relief, he really didn''t want to explain the HAMMER team to the public yet. "Well, you''ve burned your affiliation with HYDRA now." He pointed out, not all dissatisfied with it, it proved Bakshi''s loyalty after all.


    "Yes, sir, somehow I thought that you, who will own the entire world within my lifetime - might be more profitable for me going forward." Bakshi returned in good humor.


    Justin noticed Domino and Phantazia looking annoyed with him, both watching the crowd with flinty eyes, done with telling EMS to go fuck themselves apparently. "We''ll talk later, get yourself out to safehouse Epsilon, you''re a target now too." He ordered, not waiting for an affirmative before hanging up, Domino and Phantazia immediately moved to him and gestured to a car he hadn''t even seen pull up.


    Within minutes they were on the way to a safe house, which had a tunnel to another safe house, which would allow him to get out of the city safely.


    He needed to re-orient, figure out how to beat all these bastards that were now gunning for him.


    "I can already see you getting cocky again. Don''t." Phantazia said sternly. Domino nodded along, for once in perfect agreement.


    "We did make it out." Justin pointed out. Not really arguing with them, because he did agree he''d been playing it looser than he had ever imagined.


    "That was the first salvo, simple teams coming for your head." Domino said, spinning her gun as she talked, eyes looking out the window, searching for threats, "Although I have no clue what was up with the guys with fur coats sporting energy shields, but the points the same, next time -" She pointed the gun at him and mimed firing, "Blam! Someone just sends a cruise missile at your face." She made a face, shaking her head, "Or a team of Black Widows comes for you, or a squad of cybernetic freaks, or some mutant we''ve never heard off that turns people to goo by a look¡­"


    "In other words," Phantazia took over the double team, and not the pleasant kind he sometimes dreamed of, "Start listening to us on your safety, splitting us up was retarded. Splitting your entire security team to guard all your new clinics - leaving you with a rotating team of only 18 guards - was a mistake."


    Justin could admit that, seeing how his six guards, even with Extremis, didn''t amount to much firepower if caught in a bind against superior numbers - energy weapons didn''t help if they were shot down before they could act. He''d never expected people would go straight for decapitating strikes once they found out about the limb replacement thing - his enemies immediately cottoned on that he''d likely have regeneration¡­ He''d underestimated everyone.


    "What''s the point of training military veterans, giving them limb replacements etc, if you''re gonna be making them mall cops, use them for your security, train some regular folks to be ''good enough'' to at least self-destruct a cradle if someone comes for one - don''t waste your best men." Domino interjected, the silent you dumbass that they both wanted to say, heard loud and clear by Justin.


    Justin sighed, he''d let them win this one, they were right after all. "You both have full control over my security." He acknowledged.


    "You better get me a secure line to the White House, I better get Ellis his story before he starts panicking." Justin said, his thoughts turning to fighting back.


    "What are you going to do?" Domino asked curiously.


    "Not much. Just start a war." Justin replied solemnly.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Wakanda, Royal Palace.


    "- continued news keeps coming in from the suspected terrorist attack that destroyed Hammer industries New York headquarters," The reporter looked solemn as she stood in front of an empty space surrounded by skyscrapers, suddenly she put a hand to her ear, "Hang on, I hear we have Justin Hammer himself over video conference call speaking with the press, switching over now.''


    The council chamber was silent as the grave with confirmation that they had failed with the primary target. Vanko the tertiary target was never located, and Hansen had been in the building with Hammer, so likely survived if he did.


    T''Chaka didn''t know why the team had acted as they did, resorting to bombs instead of a more subtle approach, unfortunately no one survived to report on why such a tactic had been decided on. It had taken a week for them to get a good shot at Hammer without US military forces around him - perhaps they''d seen it as necessary to finally put him down before he could reveal something else.


    They''d gone dark after their last report 48 hours ago, it was frustrating to not know the how and why of the situation now that they would pay for the consequences.


    The view on the screen switched to Justin Hammer, looking severe in a dark suit, his hair still covered in gray dust from the destruction of his building, "I have already spoken to the president and he agreed to allow me to reveal this information to the general public." Hammer began, looking seriously into the camera. "This brazen terrorist attack failed, and for a moment, our security team had one of the terrorists in our grasp, he talked, bragged actually, spoke all about his purpose, so sure of my destruction."


    "They would never! No Wakandan would!" W''Kabi shouted, incensed, T''Chaka silencing him with a look as they all continued to watch the consequences of failure.


    "- These terrorists have hidden from the world for decades, killing scientists and improvements in the crib - to prevent the world from matching them, they''ve hidden behind a forcefield all this time, their abundant Vibranium deposits allowing them technology the world could not match, hiding, holding it to themselves, refusing to help their neighbors, the world." Hammer smirked suddenly, staring challengingly into the camera. "Until now! You''ve revealed yourself in trying to destroy progress, and you have FAILED, Wakanda!"


    "It is war." T''Chaka said softly, the council erupting in accusations and excuses, his son looking around him in shock, never even having imagined the failure of the war dogs to be a possibility, no doubt.


    They had no choice now, even if they paid reparations, denounced the attack as done by rebels, proclaimed innocence in the accusation for assassinating and repressing technologies - it wouldn''t matter, none of it.


    He wouldn''t be surprised if everything from the John F Kennedy assassination to local missing person cases would start to be attributed to them, demonizing them. It wouldn''t be the first time the colonizers used such a tactic to denounce them as lesser, not as worthy of freedom.


    Wakanda had hidden because of these same people that would now take center stage to accuse them.


    The white colonizers around the world would see an African country, teeming with resources they want, and with the excuse that they''d ''repressed'' their people, stopped technology that could have saved lives, killed people that could have revolutionized medicine or ended world hunger. They would never let go now. Not until they held all of Wakanda in their grip.


    They could only die fighting, or go down as slaves, there were no other options he could see against the coming storm, the greed of the colonizers would ensure it.


    "This will be the end of Wakanda." He intoned solemnly.


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 7: Every road leads to Africa.

    £ª£ª£ª


    Justin strode into the meeting room at the Pentagon like he owned it, only to stumble to a stop as he took in what he was seeing.


    Ulysses Klaue grinned toothily at him, from where he was leaning back in a chair, feet comfortably up on the table, his hair and beard as disheveled and dirty as usual even here. The man was dressed in an antique military uniform that must be a hundred years old at least.


    And it was laden with enough medals to make a North Korean dictator sniff and make snide comments about overcompensation. Justin twitched, trying to control his immediate distasteful reaction. Briefly he wondered what any officer at the Pentagon had thought, seeing such irreverent medals as the golden hot dog one - declaring Klaue the winner in the world championship hot dog eating contest.


    Justin really hoped he killed the winner and took his medal¡­ He didn''t want to imagine Klaue winning it.


    "...Klaue." Justin said cautiously, eventually, completely thrown for a loop. This was not who he had expected to meet at the Pentagon. Where was Ross? Or even the man he was meeting after that? In no way had he intended to meet with Klaue somewhere so public as the core of American military leadership.


    Klaue blew him a kiss, smacking his lips together loudly, "Moving up in the world aren''t we mate? You''re looking at the number one expert on those Wakandan cunts, it''s opened doors I tell you! I don''t need no pardon anymore, pardon me," His grin widened, "Every damn country that can rub two rifles together is sucking my balls, I ain''t a criminal anymore, see." He gestured expansively to his get up, waggling his eyebrows. "You''re looking at Generalissimo Klaue, Baron of whateverthefuckistan, can''t be arsed to remember what little shithole gave me the titles in return for my humble patronage."


    Justin slowly moved to the table, sitting down, Domino taking a position by the door, arms crossed, Phantazia covering the outside hallway. "It''s always nice to see friends make something out of themselves." He said dryly, nodding at Klaue, more to give himself a minute to think, then anything.


    This could be potentially problematic. He''d intended to kill Klaue after taking ownership of his Vibranium, more to tie up a loose end than anything else, but this whole Wakandan situation had suddenly turned the despicable man into a resource. Justin definitely could not remove him now, which begged the question? His Vibranium? Had the man gone back on their deal now that he''d turned¡­


    Respectable¡­


    In the loosest meaning of the word.


    "You and me mate - and no homo Hammer - we''re like best friends aren''t we? Two peas in a pod, spooning." Klaue chortled, one hand rubbing his chin through the unkempt beard, "I mean, the hit job you pulled on Stark¡­" Klaue kissed the tips of his fingers and then mimed an explosion using his hands - while also blowing out his cheeks. "Blew my mind, didn''t know ya got it in ya!" He exclaimed loudly, before letting loose a loud guffaw which immediately gave Justin a tension headache. This man was just too annoying.


    And too skilled. Because he knew Klaue''s personality was tailored to throw people off - just as much as it was built on delusions of his own cleverness, and it still worked. There was just no way to sit down with the man and not find him incredibly frustrating.


    Justin at this point preferred talking to Stark, and that¡­ Said a lot.


    "I didn''t have anything to do with Stark''s disappearance, Klaue¡­" Justin said placidly, with a neutral expression on his face, his body language purposefully laid back. On the inside, he was beyond irritated and he seethed as that theory was spewed out into his face. Klaue was far from the only one speculating on that! He''d even seen people on CNN openly speculate about the ''coincidental timing'' of Stark''s disappearance and Justin''s rise. Not something he''d realized would happen when he planned everything out - he knew after all that it was all Stane, but perhaps that had been his blindspot, because that''s not what it looked like.


    There was no proof of course, because Justin hadn''t had anything to do with it, he''d just known ahead of time, not that he could ever say that. But it was getting annoyingly clear that amongst business leaders, politicians, the media, and even the top military brass - the suspicion was there that Justin had arranged it.


    Probably pushed on by the likes of Stane himself seeing a golden opportunity¡­ Not that his other competitors weren''t stirring the pot as well. It had run rampant during the first 48-72 hours until Justin''s PR group rolled out their counterattack, the slow response coming from just how blindsided he''d been, counting too much on future knowledge that didn''t matter now that he''d flipped the board. Something which Wakanda''s attack had further simplified for him in regards to PR, thankfully.


    Fucking Osborn had straight up held a press conference stating that Justin couldn''t be trusted because he''d obviously put a hit on Tony Stark. Build something that works before you get on stage to point fingers, you fucking goblin!


    Fucking accusing Justin of the whole thing didn''t stop Norman from putting in a massive order for Arc batteries for Oscorp, so Justin assumed he wasn''t that heartbroken over the possibility either. Opportunistic swine. He almost turned down the deal, out of spite. But it was in his own best interest to get everyone to improve humanity and its defenses, so he''d approved the sale.


    He''d sued him for libel, of course, because that was just how the game was played. So that would be a couple million out of Norman''s pockets eventually, not that small change like that mattered to either of them. Thankfully Wakanda was a perfect scapegoat right now so Osborn''s idiocy was drowned out in the outrage. Justin and Bakshi and the Hammer industries PR team had worked overtime on seeding the thought in the public that Wakanda had gone after both Tony and Justin (once they realized Justin was getting the blame) - and Wakanda had just succeeded better with Tony obviously. If he was still alive, those dastardly bastards were probably pumping him for information on his tech. Not like the Ten Rings or Stane was going to say otherwise.


    Justin had graciously offered a 100 million dollar bounty on any information that contributed in bringing Stark back alive. It had killed the momentum of the press talking about him having a hand in the disappearance. An easy promise, because Stark would get himself out, so he''d never have to pay.


    By the time Stark came back, it would already be in the public''s mind that Wakanda was behind his disappearance. Justin''s opponents would still say it was Justin of course - but to the general public, the boogeyman Wakanda was behind it all, no matter what Stark claimed at that point - poor man must be beset by PTSD you know?


    Or Wakanda used a cat''s paw in the Ten Rings, really, it wouldn''t even be difficult to get it all pinned on them.


    Considering Stane would take that gift and run with it - the man''s own godfather, it wouldn''t be a hard sell to the public. For all that Stark was very famous - he''d never been actually well liked. Justin on the other hand had cured all the diseases. Solved the energy crisis, global warming - albeit eventually as it was all just getting started. What had Stark done for the everyday man?


    Even if he bleated about Arc reactor tech being his? Then the public would turn on him. Because he never delivered it.


    Stark would be too behind to ever catch up upon his return. If Stane didn''t just steal the company from him, which was a possibility depending on how obstinate Stark would be. In that case¡­ Justin would have to give the man some cash and a workshop - he still needed Iron Man.


    He still held out hope Tony would beat out Stane and shut down his weapons division, but he could live with Stark being a number two and continuing to improve humanity - forcing him to do so this time, with Justin''s own superiority rubbed in his face.


    Klaue winked at Justin exaggeratedly, before looking around for cameras in the conference room, with wide eyes and a conspiratory grin on his face, "Of course not, Hammer." He stage-whispered, "We''re both upstanding gentlemen, you''re absolutely right, terrible business that thing with Stark, terrible." Then he winked again.


    Justin really wanted to kill this man¡­ Surely one murder wouldn''t be too bad? Yet, someone in the government had obviously set this meeting on Klaue''s behest, so he wasn''t someone Justin could just kill¡­ Right now. "So you''re working for the US government now then?" He probed instead. What have you done with my Vibranium, Klaue¡­?


    If the US or some tinpot dictator had all his Vibranium now, he was going to do very unpleasant things to the man, consequences be damned.


    Klaue laughed, looking unbearably smug, "Nah, you know me, I ain''t got no problem prostituting myself, oldest profession in the world it is, very respectable, profitable too." He bragged, slamming a hand down on the table, jutting his jaw out, scratching at his neck brand with the other hand as he continued, seemingly incapable of keeping entirely still. "But! You don''t make bank whoring yourself to only one john do ya? These fellas paid top dollar, so they got the first bite on my info. I''m going to Beijing next week, Moscow, Islamabad, Berlin, you name em'', they''re wining and dining me, getting slobber all over my balls, they''re so eager."


    "How nice for you. I''m sure your expertise will come in handy." Justin said stiffly, not at all thrilled at the news. Klaue going to every high bidder with his insider information on Wakanda, made him practically untouchable, at least until Wakanda was fully bent over and done shitting out Vibranium. It just wasn''t worth the headache to remove him right now then.


    Not to mention killing him after he''d just finished selling his secrets to the US - but hadn''t gone anywhere else yet¡­ Might start a world security issue as the major powers all start poking at the US to get at the information. There was already likely some insane amount of diplomacy going on in the background between the major nations in even allowing Klaue to do this, sharing his info to everyone that wanted a piece of the Wakandan cake.


    Everyone wanted Wakanda and their goodies and no one wanted to risk someone shooting up their only infosource while competing for his services. Diplomacy and worldwide cooperation works when everyone wants to just fuck the same people, Justin thought wryly, still annoyed, but finding small amusement in certain facets of the situation. War was good for him, because it also prepared the nations and gave them reason to practice and get good with the new technology he would be selling for insane profits - but he didn''t want it to go too far.


    Having the world get practice in for the real thing was all well and good, as the profits from those sales would allow him to proceed faster with everything else - but it would be pointless if say India and Pakistan blew each other up for it.


    "Couldn''t have done it without ya, Justin my old mate! Been fucking with those stupid cunts for years haven''t I? But you¡­" He wagged his finger at Justin, his eyes lit up in glee, "One presser and BOOM!" He slammed the table hard, leaning forward in his seat, his toothy grin growing more sinister, "You up and fucked them so bad that a nuclear strike would be considered merciful in comparison!" The absolute relish in Klaue''s voice spoke to just how thrilled he was with what had happened.


    Klaue wasn''t exactly wrong either, a nuclear strike might be preferable to China, Russia, India, Europe and the USA all fighting in Wakanda, not to mention African warlords and SHIELDRA popping in. Even Magneto might throw in his two cents for some Vibranium to play with. He couldn''t feel sorry for them - they''d brought it on themselves. As the new primary weapons manufacturer for the United States of America and NATO - plus everyone else that wanted any, he''d get some Vibranium to play with either way.


    But his own personal stash, that''s what he needed to find out about. If he wanted into space sooner rather than later, he needed enough Vibranium for Vanko to play with to figure out better ways to do things - perhaps even ways to use Arc reactors power output to synthesize something even half as useful, that could be produced indefinitely - unlike the currently finite Vibranium.


    Speaking of Vibranium¡­


    "So, with us being such good friends¡­ Our friendly little talk previously? What''s happened with that, I wonder?" Justin pondered out loud, staring down Klaue. If the fool had double crossed him¡­


    Klaue scratched his chin, looking almost sheepish. "Well¡­ Seeing as you''re so important now and did me a favor and all¡­ I''m going to do you a favor and not backstab you like I was gunna do." All said without a lick of shame. Klaue reached into a chest pocket, lifting out a USB, which he sent spinning over the table to Justin. "Got all the deets for you there, take that Vibranium, and right shove it up Wakanda''s ass for me!"


    Justin grabbed the USB, standing up right after, giving Klaue a terse nod, before immediately exiting the room, not bothering to say goodbye.


    Klaue''s amused voice followed him out, "Make sure you catch the news later, I''m being interviewed, primetime!" The mad laughter that followed that statement boded ill for Wakanda. Couldn''t happen to better people, Justin thought snidely.


    If they''d spread the wealth¡­ With people like Stark and Pym around, what could have been achieved already?


    Note to self, get project Kilgrave moving forward, need to get Pym onboard, even if only for twelve hour intervals until he''s wrung dry.


    His daughter could do the rest after. They''d met many times due to conferences and the like, she was cordial enough, they both enjoyed making fun of Stark after all. Justin could see a fruitful partnership there, without Hank Pym.


    "Well that was interesting." Domino muttered as she followed him down the halls of the Pentagon, speaking up once they were out of earshot of anyone, their military escort staying a respectful distance away.


    "We''re still going to¡­?" Phantazia asked, thankfully being smart enough to not talk about murder out loud in the Pentagon. Although if there was anywhere in the world right now where Justin could shoot someone in public and get away with it - it was probably here.


    Military brass could stomach a lot for their shiny new toys. Just look at Ross.


    "Not now¡­ But one day." Justin promised darkly, "He''s a minor irritant if anything." A minor irritant that felt like a giant boil you just couldn''t get rid of.


    "Hammer, get in here." A gruff voice called out ahead of them. General Ross was seen briefly poking his head out a door, scowling at Justin, like it was his fault he wasn''t there. They shouldn''t have ambushed him with Klaue then, they''re lucky he''s a reasonable megalomaniac.


    This time he was not allowed to bring anyone into the room with him, Domino and Phantazia were forced to wait outside, which they took in stride, an assassination attempt was highly unlikely inside the Pentagon. Justin had clearances that the mercenaries he employed would just never be able to get. It was all polite fiction more than anything however, like standing outside a door really hid secrets from those two.


    As always with the government, pageantry was the name of the game. More about being seen doing something a certain way, then actually being effective doing something.


    "Sorry about surprising you with that degenerate, god damn CIA and the state department shoved him down my throat." Ross groused angrily, taking a seat at the head of a table which seemed filled to the brim with military intelligence specialists. "His only condition, other than the money, was for him to surprise you in there, so I was forced to play along, figured you''d play ball, glad I was right." The Warhawk looked like he''d sucked in something sour, before he shook his head, muttering something under his breath.


    Justin was almost positive he heard something about Stark.


    "It was an experience, but I''ve dealt with Klaue before, I don''t appreciate the blindside, but understand your hands were tied." Justin said diplomatically, while fully intending to use the concession to bend the general over a barrel on prices later.


    Or maybe the CIA would find his prices tripled for spooks. People would learn not to play petty intra governmental power plays with him¡­


    "Alright, let''s stop gossiping like old ladies, and start gossiping like god damn soldiers in the United States Army! What do you know about Wakanda, Hammer?" Ross barked out, a ripple of surprise going over the room. Apparently the intelligence officers hadn''t been informed of the purpose of the meeting.


    How ironic to have a bunch of intelligence officers gathered without any intelligence about why, Justin thought.


    It was also odd that Ross was in charge of such a briefing, it was usually not his fiefdom.


    Hammer let an amused smile play out on his face, who knew Ross could be funny though? "Well, I don''t know much, but the captive I briefly held did - "


    An hour later¡­


    After a productive meeting with Ross - the man actually came off fairly pleasant now that he had a war to dig his teeth in - Justin moved onto the second reason he''d arrived at the Pentagon - well third, if you count his surprise meeting with Klaue.


    "Erik Stevens, I presume?" Justin asked the young man that had been waiting patiently in the room, seemingly engrossed in the news, Wakanda the topic, or course. Justin stepped forward to shake his hand. The young soldier jumping up, seemingly wary of him.


    "I have an offer for you, I''m aware of your history, and figured you might want some¡­ Restitution." Justin''s smile took on a bit of an edge.


    Killmonger wasn''t a trustworthy sort, but he was useful, as long as Justin didn''t make the mistake of actually trusting him with anything truly important for now. Besides, he wasn''t the same veteran he''d been in Black Panther, he was still a fairly fresh soldier, only a couple years in. Perhaps he wasn''t a complete snake yet?


    If project Kilgrave worked out better than expected, maybe that could be fixed too if he was.


    Considering the way young Erik kept staring at Domino, and the way she showed off her physique in casual ways, a knowing smile on her face, teasing the poor soldier¡­ Interesting¡­ Perhaps simpler means would resolve it all anyway.


    Ah, the future held so many things, Justin couldn''t wait. He smiled as Erik Stevens slowly sunk into his grasp during the process of one simple conversation.


    It was good to be him.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Same time, Undisclosed location, Washington D.C


    "Serious questions have been asked, you have not given us a satisfactory answer as of yet, Director." Alexander Pierce said sternly, the monitors behind his back showcasing the shady outlines of the world Security Council all murmuring their agreement.


    Nick Fury, the lone man responsible for the intelligence failure of the god damn Millenia, at least if you listened to the Security Council¡­ Stood calmly before their scorn, hands behind his back as his lone eye met Secretary Pierce''s, the two men able to say a lot without words. Mostly along the lines of - can you believe these fools are waiting our time with this?


    These kinds of days were the ones where Nick wished he''d never taken the damn chair from his predecessor. If only he could trust anyone else to do the damn job. Almost made him wish for a clone¡­


    And Talos damn well didn''t count, last time he''d had him cover for him - he''d come back to find that Barton believed Nick was secretly pining for Hill. Like his damn operation was a soap opera. Fucking skrulls¡­


    If only the council hadn''t fucked him with that cease and desist¡­ Surely the skrulls could have gotten inside Hammer''s circle¡­


    They''d see what they could get out of Wakanda before the party kicked off, a better use of them anyway.


    "Just because you don''t like the answer doesn''t mean it isn''t satisfactory, councilors." Nick drawled, tilting his head slightly upwards and narrowing his gaze at his nominal superiors, "If I don''t misremember the situation, I sent someone in to get close to Hammer, and when that failed, you ordered me to back off, denied that any further action were necessary, that you had Hammer''s measure¡­" Nick clenched his fists behind his back, he''d known something was up with Hammer, but he''d been hamstrung after Widow''s spectacular failure, and he now had to wonder¡­ Who on the Council had known what? And what game were they playing? He knew there were factions within SHIELD, it worked to keep everyone on their toes, so it hadn''t been much of an issue in his book, as they all worked towards the same goal, but this seemed deeper, more like¡­ An infestation. "I know in our business we rewrite history all the damn time, but I fail to see how it helps in this situation - when I could be out there doing my god damn job and finding out how the hell this flew past everyone."


    If it flew past everyone¡­


    Which one of my agents had been suppressing news on Hammer? Because it''s impossible for us to have been so blindsided without inside help, someone would have known something¡­ He thought, looking at the different shades in front of him, wondering who exactly was working against SHIELD amongst them. One can not create a miracle cure, green energy - including motherfucking energy weapons better than their own phase 2 program - which Hammer had dropped in the world''s lap like a proverbial hand grenade - without anyone knowing about it.


    The intelligence apparatus of every major nation had been pantsed thoroughly by an uppity - silver spoon in his mouth - billionaire, but SHIELD was supposed to be better than that. He refused to believe no one knew. Which beggared the question?


    Who, and why? Why would they keep it suppressed? To what end?


    "I''m not sure I like your tone, Director." One of the shades said, its voice scrambled. Nick of course knew who he was, it was his job to know, but he''d leave them their pageantry. Saved him from having to stare at their ugly mugs when they wasted his time if nothing else.


    There tended to be more wild flailing after the fact - then permission to prevent situations in the first place, the Council becoming more like the UN Security Council everyday.


    Useless.


    "I''m sure there''s a lot of me you don''t like, except the fact I get results." Nick''s eye narrowed again as he snapped out coldly, "When I''m allowed to act!" He didn''t see a point in being all that diplomatic, they knew what they were getting when they rubber stamped his appointment.


    "We''re getting distracted, we need to focus on the now, not the past." The only female member on the council stated bluntly. Nick would call her the one voice of reason - if she wasn''t so obviously only looking out for her own interests - the woman constantly sticking her fingers all into SHIELD''s innards.


    Pierce cut in at that point, voice more mild now that he wasn''t having to pretend to discipline Nick to appease the Council. "An excellent point, Councilor. What should be the strategy going forward in regards to Justin Hammer and Hammer industries?"


    And he still missed the forest for the fucking trees..


    Nick wanted to shoot everyone. What about Wakanda? About the internal failure of SHIELD? About the flaring of tension between India and Pakistan, the build up of chatter in the middle east as terrorist organizations smelled opportunity? Tony motherfucking Stark missing in Afghanistan! Right now they needed to prioritize. Hammer was up to something, sure, what business man wasn''t? Yet, for all appearances, that something was actually not world conquest - for all that economic domination might seem like it, so Nick was willing to give him some leeway, for now.


    He still didn''t trust the bastard, but one thing at a time when the world is one fool away from being set on fire, and Hammer was still a known quantity - for all his surprises, he, as a person - was well documented thanks to Widow, even if she failed everything else.


    He had a pathological need to be seen as superior according to Widow - so he couldn''t ruin his reputation by blowing up the UN or something ridiculous.


    "We need someone close to him, we can''t be blindsided again, the world has been upended, chaos will ensue, allies will be enemies, enemies will be allies, we can not go in blind." A voice that Nick knew to be Gideon Mallick counseled. He continued, almost fervently, believing strongly in his words, as far as Nick could tell. "He needs to be managed, there can''t be a free actor with his influence, he needs to be tied to us by some measure of chains, post haste."


    He was right, but too late, that genie was also out of the bottle now, a pointless thing to focus on while the whole world was going crazy, they couldn''t go back in time and get Hammer to be more careful in his approach, to get someone close to him, so they needed to deal with the hand they''ve been dealt. Hammer had known too much, had known about Widow beforehand - possibly had an inside man.


    Only Fury, Coulson, Widow and Pierce had known beforehand about the op¡­ Fury had already cleared Widow himself¡­ Coulson as well.


    Which put him in a conundrum. His lone eye found Pierce again, the man utterly calm in face of the world changing.


    Fury couldn''t believe Pierce would sell out SHIELD, but he couldn''t believe Hammer would roll out limb replacement in a bottle either. Shit happened outside known parameters...His job was to roll with changing tides, to evolve as situations changed. He''d have to leave his own feelings aside and do his job¡­


    "He is growing dangerously strong." Pierce acknowledged calmly, saying what everyone was thinking. That left alone, Hammer would grow too strong. Would have too much influence - or in other words, have more sway then the Security Council.


    Nick gritted his teeth as another round of discussions set off from that, he glared at Pierce as the man sent him a commiserating look. This could all be done without his presence, they were wasting daylight arguing when they needed to talk to Hammer now! Not infiltrate, not threaten, it was too late for that. He thought.


    They needed Hammer onboard if anything, to deal with the chaos he''d unleashed. If he was going to be dead set on changing the world¡­ Fine, but on their side, with them in the damn loop.


    It was better than it happening anyway while they scrambled with their damn heads cut off.


    He straightened his back, preparing for the fight of his life. Convincing a bunch of paper pushing politicians and backroom power brokers to shut the hell up and just deal with a new major power on the board. Bring him to the table. Offer him a seat.


    They were kidding themselves if they thought they could pressure, blackmail or threaten Hammer now. The world changed almost two weeks ago with the Arc reactor plant in Texas debuting, it changed even more when Wakanda was revealed a few days back. There was no putting all that shit back in the bottle - it was a new world.


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    And just like the old world - the new world was filled to the brim with shit Nick Fury would have to deal with, with his goddamn hands tied behind his back.


    Nick really did not like Justin Hammer. But he''d shine a seat for him on the Security Council himself - if that''s what it took to get him and his innovations working for them, instead of exploding everywhere without control and any thought to the consequences.


    The only hands that could steer this ship were his own. People couldn''t be trusted to do the right thing.


    He''d gladly let someone else clean up the disasters if he could ever find anyone fucking competent enough.


    Nick Fury seethed, even as his face showed nothing but semi-polite disinterest - as councilors raised their voices to argue with each other about minor details.


    If he''d known back when he sent Widow, just how much work Hammer would make for him, how many problems he''d create. How he''d upend the status quo.


    He would have put a bullet in the motherfucker himself.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Wakanda,


    T''Challa watched helplessly as yet another man died, then another, standing numb before the corpses buried in the sand, another man succumbing to the heart shaped herb instead of earning Bast''s blessing before one man woke, gasping, rising up from the sand, one man out of five, surviving.


    Something had deflated in his father after the last council meeting after they received the world''s response, like he was just going through the motions - it hadn''t been long before the council took advantage, pushing for more Black Panthers.


    There had been some successes, but far too many failures. They would run out of herbs long before they''d gain the superior force the council was advocating for to beat back the coming foreigners. If Bast herself disagreed with what they were doing, were they truly in the right?


    He''d thought so. Had followed his father''s teachings proudly. But now¡­ Was the death of Wakanda truly something to be proud of? He hadn''t realized the world could react so strongly, his teachings failing him by failing to show him the truth. His father¡­ Failing him. Them.


    "Be in peace with Bast, W''Kabi." He muttered, letting sand run out of his fingers, falling onto what was now the man''s grave. Okoye was like granite, standing by the entrance, T''Challa felt for her loss, but there would be a lot of it going around soon and there would be no real rest for them.


    Nothing but eternal rest¡­


    He turned to leave, only to find Shuri standing there looking downcast. "Sister! What are you doing here, you shouldn''t be here, where are your guards!?" T''Challa sent a blistering glare at his own Dora escort.


    Shuri escaping her guards was a normal thing for the young girl, but at this time - utterly unacceptable.


    "Brother¡­ Are we going to die?" The five year old asked simply, breaking T''Challa''s heart. He grabbed his sister and lifted her up in his arms, pushing his forehead against hers, what have our pride done? He thought, lost for words. He wet his lips, seeking for something, anything, any words to soothe his sister.


    "You will not, I will ensure it." He swore fervently, there must be something that could be done.


    If Wakanda was to die, surely the children deserved better? Even the outsiders must agree to that, surely?


    Shuri was not responsible for their Fathers decision, for T''Challa proudly standing by, never wondering how destroying an outside threat could possibly be wrong.


    Shuri was truly Innocent, the jewel of Wakanda, and his heart.


    "We''ll all make it, sister." He lied, kissing her forehead. Pressing his lips to it, to keep any further lies from spilling out.


    Already mercenaries were testing their borders, a prelude to war. Death was coming, invited in by Wakanda in proud defiance.


    T''Challa would find a way out. For his sister.


    Wakanda was a people, not a nation.


    They would survive.


    £ª£ª£ª


    New York, Hellfire Club.


    Sebastian Shaw pondered why exactly they''d never extended a hand to Justin Hammer before - as he observed the ground floor of the Hellfire club and the flurried activities of its patrons, from the viewing window of the inner circles sanctum.


    The men and women down there, the elite of the business world, were ignoring the high class strippers and the freely offered designer drugs for once - not a single one taking one of the young men or women to a private room, all of them either on the phone or laptops - sending numerous messages across the world that changed the allocation of billions of dollars and made or broke companies and lives.


    All currently because of one man.


    "You spend most of your time in London. Hammer''s international headquarters is there isn''t it? Why was he never invited?" Sebastian asked the Black Queen idly, playing with a chess piece, a white queen in his hands. He had his eyes on someone, his sharp gaze easily finding her in a corner, fully composed as she conducted business. Emma Frost. Such potential¡­ Such exquisite beauty.


    To own such a thing¡­


    Selene, herself a beauty almost without compare, if you could ignore the madness barely hidden in her eyes, answered huffily as she sat back in her throne, sipping on a vintage lost to history now. "I had my research, I didn''t pay much attention to such things, he was nothing but a weapon dealer anyway, dime a dozen." She said dismissively, never one to acknowledge a mistake.


    Sebastian knew there was no point in chastising the immortal mutant and sorceress - in theory they were equal, Black King and Queen. But Selene was not someone Sebastian would tangle with lightly, and she was terribly sensitive for someone her age. "Well, we''ve been missing a White King since the ''mysterious'' disappearance of Donald. Perhaps Hammer would be a suitable candidate?" Sebastian suggested.


    Donald Pierce had been on borrowed time after killing the previous king anyway - Sebastian could never allow a mutant hater to hold power in the Hellfire club for long. Unfortunately he hadn''t actually gotten the pleasure himself. His gaze followed Emma as she stood to speak with her brother who''d entered the premises - she''d surprised him with her removal of Donald, especially as he had no idea how she''d pulled it off, hence the ''mystery''.


    "I thought you wanted Magneto for the position." Selene drawled, barely paying attention, leaning back on her throne, putting one leg over the other, hiding her exposed sex from view.


    Sebastian gave an agreeing hum, admiring the sweaty post coital form of his rival and occasional lover. "We''ve cooperated with him and Xavier to keep mutants on the down low, I''d thought of bringing him further into the fold, but Hammer is¡­" Sebastian thought of a word to describe the absolute chaos the man had unleashed, "One of a kind¡­" He finished, his own nude form not showing through the one way glass window as he stared down possessively at young Emma.


    "Well, it''s not like I care anyway, do as you will, as you always do anyway, Sebastian." Selene said uncaringly, as always more concerned with her own personal power over anything else. "He''s not a mutant though, I''ve checked." She volunteered.


    Sebastian chuckled, his thumb stroking the head of the white queen chess piece, "It''s not an actual requirement for the position my dear. Unlike Donald, Hammer is a known mutant lover." His lips quirked into a covetous smile, Mystique had been very open about that last time they met.


    "He could be very useful." Sebastian decided, his mind made up. Hammer would make an excellent White King. He obviously held no issues with discretion, considering no one had been aware of the aces up his sleeve.


    The Hellfire club had people everywhere. And they hadn''t heard a single thing. It was, in a single word.


    Impressive.


    His mouth twisted into a snarl as he saw that fool Warren Worthington Jr flirting with his Emma after specifically being ordered to stay away from her. "Worthington is playing with fire." He cursed out loud. Feeling a burning need to crush his pathetic skull.


    "Worthington? Do you particularly need him for anything?" Selena asked lightly.


    "Not at all." Sebastian growled, watching Emma laugh at something he said.


    A brief flare of power was felt in the sanctum, Sebastian glancing back at Selene cautiously, "Dare I ask?" He asked slowly.


    "He''s dead." She sniffed, taking a slow sip of her wine, dangling her leg, drawing Sebastian''s hungry attention. "Reached out and crushed his heart in his chest telekinetically, he wasn''t that far away after all."


    Sebastian''s brows furrowed as he stared down at the very much alive Warren, the boy still flirting with Emma. "Warren is down there still. He''s still alive, I''m watching him right now." He growled, wondering what Selene''s game was.


    She raised an imperius eyebrow, "Who''s Warren?" She asked, impatience leaking through her voice. "You wanted me to kill Worthington."


    Sebastian felt a headache coming on. Immortal sorceress she might be - but she was also a pain to deal with. "Warren Worthington Jr." He stressed through gritted teeth.


    "Oh, I don''t know that one." Selene said casually, "I killed the old one, I remembered him, he wasn''t far from here, watching opera in fact."


    "Heh, I guess that''s punishment enough this time." Sebastian said, putting it out of his mind. Perhaps Worthington Jr would prove to make something out of himself now that he''d have to take the reins.


    As long as he learned his place and didn''t touch Sebastian''s things.


    And it was good to have a reminder why it was for all their benefits that Selene spent most of her time in London again.


    It would be a pity to induct Hammer only to have Selene kill him immediately after all.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Several days after the Pentagon meeting.


    "We need to wrap this up, I need to get on a flight." Justin said, his H-Watch having gone off to remind him of the time.


    His factories in South America and Africa were literally working triple shifts, 24/7 to keep up with the demand right now. Even with the wildly optimistic projections they''d imagined - they''d still undersold just how quickly consumers would jump on a bandwagon. The press from Panacea''s unveiling and Wakanda''s attack further driving demand for anything related to Justin.


    His phones, tablets and watches were selling faster than he could produce them, which was severely straining his company as they''d barely rolled out their own satellite network and telecom business in the first place to deliver a full Hammer industries advantage by taking a slice of each step of the tech and telecommunications pie.


    He''d been firing satellites up for the past two years, and if he hadn''t been such a busy beaver with that - his launch now would have fallen flat as he was looking at close to 100 million new users across the world. In a week.


    Even with all the hiring he''d done in preparation, they were still working overtime and running his people to the limit. Every facet of his companies were the same right now, he''d underestimated how revolutionary some of it was - how eagerly governments, companies and people would jump on it immediately.


    Without an AI however, he wouldn''t be able to install the backdoor he wanted, even though the satellites were all set up to perform the task on their end, to be able to track, hack and spy through his equipment, he was missing out on so much possible information right now¡­ C''est la vie¡­


    He''d get his Jarvis copy one day. Although changed to be more suitable of course. Maybe he''d name her Pepper¡­


    Hah.


    The clinics he had set up in advance were already drowning in applicants in the states, despite the fact they couldn''t operate yet without FDA approval. They were simply taking down the names and contact information of interested parties for when they opened for business properly.


    In some countries with less stringent governments¡­ Such approval had been granted since day one, and there, the clinics were booked full already. For the next 4 and a half years.


    He needed more clinics. More staff. More production, more everything.


    He needed more companies to die already so he could take their people!


    The current meeting had been yet another meeting with a representative from the auto industry - one set up because they wanted a contract for batteries and to cooperate on creating a completely green car - Ford this time. The new plastics and metal alloys Justinium powered Arc reactors had been able to create - drawing salivating looks from the auto industry.


    Not to mention the interest from the likes of Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, etc.


    Not only were there now batteries that economically made sense for a fully operational and high quality electric car, finally - but also plastics and mixed alloys that would be even better than aluminum or steel in a collision, and cheaper than what''s already on the market for the chassis of cars - or would be anyway once there was enough Arc reactors around to help produce the alloys. The entire industry was having fits trying to get into Justin''s pants.


    The aeronautical industry was, if anything, even thirstier. Fuel as well as wear and tear and maintenance, were huge costs for them. It would take some years of design work and cooperation between companies - but the industry would soon become much more profitable, which would make it easier for people to travel, as air travel became much cheaper.


    But more importantly, it would lead to advancement in fighter planes, and orbit capable planes. Justin would partner with all of them. Someone would make the breakthroughs he needed. And all of them would make him money.


    "Oh, where are you flying to? If you don''t mind me asking?" The blonde nordic looking sales representative - speaking on behalf of Ford, asked, with a smoldering look in her eyes.


    Justin had noticed a theme in people sent to negotiate with him lately¡­


    And a very distinct lack of CEO''s and board members showing up. It seemed most major corporations suddenly had insanely attractive women between twenty to thirty-five in high positions. Perhaps it was just this MCU world - Men and women both, he so rarely ran into anyone not insanely attractive nowadays.


    Case in point, Ford''s supermodel sales rep.


    "Johannesburg. I have a meeting with the African Union, I''m going to make them an offer they can''t refuse." Justin quipped, winking at the woman, drawing a tinkling laugh out of her, as she shifted in her seat, purely by accident surely, dipping just low enough to showcase more of her decolletage.


    "I''m sure they wouldn''t refuse you, no one would nowadays, surely¡­?" She asked leadingly, the bedroom eyes were strong in this one, Justin couldn''t help but to think.


    Well, that''s the point of an offer they can''t refuse. He wanted to quip, but he held his tongue. He was a smooth operator after all.


    In the background, Domino coughed lightly, hiding a snicker, as always poking at him, just because he had game and she wasn''t getting any.


    Some people were so petty.


    Justin ignored it, mind already on Johannesburg, where he would truly make them an offer they''d be forced to accept. The eyes of the world were on Africa right now, and the countries within were definitely feeling the pressure. They were unhappy with every bit of news that came out on Wakanda, especially the bits from Klaue that confirmed Wakanda could have helped their neighbors for ages - but never did.


    Klaue''s interview had been an outright pack of outrageous lies, but Wakanda wasn''t available for comments - so they were swallowed as wholesale truth by people.


    The media was more skeptical in general. Most could smell a con artist when they saw one - but the news was good for clicks whether it was true or not - so they ran it.


    Klaue claimed himself as a humanitarian (Hah!), who had been on a peaceful mission to help what he believed to be poor starving people in Wakanda, before stumbling into the real Wakanda, being caught, tortured and branded, for the crime of not being Wakandan.


    He''d managed to escape, Wakandan slaves sacrificing themselves to attempt a breakout, accidentally taking a vehicle which had held some of their precious metal, which to Justin''s relief he claimed to have abandoned long ago - rather than reveal Justin''s purchase.


    Then Klaue really went outrageous, claiming Wakanda manipulated countries all around them, painting Klaue as a weapons dealer, a criminal in an attempt to flush him out and end him, eventually forcing him to become just that, just to survive, as Wakanda kept trying to kill him for having survived seeing their land.


    If Justin had put the spotlight on Wakanda. Klaue had in the last few days - not only poured gasoline on the fire, but cheerfully danced around it pissing on their entire people and soured any chance of a negotiation. Justin personally thought the slave part, a complete fabrication as far as Justin was aware - had been a nice touch.


    "You know, I''ve heard Johannesburg is a beautiful city¡­" Elena, the lithe, yet athletic looking sales rep said in a breathy tone, giving Justin a suggestive look, the sharp intelligence in her eyes only made her sexier, her fierce negotiation during their meeting had been better foreplay to Justin than almost anything else a woman could pull off.


    Justin ignored Domino coughing ''whore'' and spoke over her, smiling at the pretty, yet fierce and clever woman, they''d be making a deal regardless anyway, so why not¡­ "Is that so? My private jet doesn''t have much room, but we could take another passenger on, if you don''t mind sharing some personal space¡­" He suggested suavely.


    Elena eagerly accepted, smirking like a cat that caught the canary. Whether this was all a part of a negotiation strategy, or an honest attraction to power on her part, or both. Justin soon left the room, a beautiful woman on his arm, and Domino trailing behind, the much revamped security team of twenty hardened veterans covering the building as they set out for his armored limo.


    The secondary team in the outer circle keeping a watch of the area, numbering thirty more - would split up with one team driving on slightly ahead, one team taking the rear, his team of twenty keeping around him in their own vehicles. He wouldn''t be caught with his pants down again.


    Phantazia was ultimately in charge of his security, which did also include drones flying above scanning everything and everyone in his vicinity, while giving Phantazia eyes in the sky with which to direct the security team. Phantazia was already at the airport, securing his jet, another smaller squad of elites with her.


    Once he revealed his HAMMER team - he''d be able to include one of them as a bodyguard now and then as well if needed.


    Domino muttered about needing the ''good'' headphones on the flight again, sticking her tongue out childishly at him, as Justin thought of his upcoming meeting, he wasn''t worried about his safety for the moment, Phantazia had it well in hand.


    With Wakanda revealed, Africa once again would suffer, it was just inevitable. No one, especially any of the African countries - believed the major powers of the world would share Wakandan spoils with them, not any serious amount anyway. Not to mention the pressure put on many of the countries near Wakanda from the likes of China and the US, to allow troop passage, to allow military bases to be set up, to provide logistics and services for what were basically invaders.


    Oh, they''d pay for it, nothing would be given for free in likelihood, but the ties that came with, would be hard to discard afterwards. It didn''t really make any African nation much happier about having their sovereignty violated just so that the west and east could plunder an African nation.


    They didn''t exactly have good experiences with previous attempts¡­ And would have very mixed feelings on any foreign forces.


    Even if they also hated Wakanda''s guts, probably more actually, because they''d actually suffered while Wakanda sat by eating popcorn and watching the whole shitshow over the years. If not decried over not lending a hand during the colonization of the continent, the fact Wakanda never helped with the AIDS epidemic would be enough to forever earn Africa''s hatred. There''d been a lot of suspicious muttering across Africa over the last few days - if one paid attention, (which Justin always did) wondering if all the attempts of African nations to improve their status, to band together, etc - had been sabotaged by Wakanda, the hidden nation preferring poor broken down nations as buffer states to help hide their own - rather than advanced civilizations that might reveal them.


    Justin personally thought Wakanda was being led by people with more pride than brains right now, because Wakanda was just making it worse by not at least trying to get another story out.


    He got a text, the notification flashing on his H-Watch, with a slow deliberate blink to activate his tech, he brought it up on his glasses, the product not yet made to launch, but giving Justin an interface to check texts and emails on the sly through his glasses.


    They also were always recording to a system only he had access to and could play it back to him. He still deleted it all daily, paranoid that someone would gain access, another reason to get an AI to protect his stuff. He focused on the text, pleased to see the bugs the product had previously had been ironed out.


    China rushing ahead to begin setting up a base, navy assets already on the move towards Africa, rumor that Kenya has allowed them succor under heavy threats of financial consequences for refusal. The text was from Bakshi, who still had a lot of contacts willing to talk to him thanks to the almighty dollar.


    Well, that would set a bug under the ass of the US like nothing would if true¡­


    Actual war was likely months away, mercenaries and warlords likely going to be bleeding for a while yet as nations prepared and set up. Unless Wakanda did something suicidal.


    Another text came in, Justin pulling it up as Elena and Domino sunk into discussion, their heads close together as they whispered about something.


    Word is also coming from the African Union, Bakshi warned, A private negotiator has arrived in Johannesburg and is claiming to intend to negotiate a peaceful resolution with Wakanda, asking the African Nations to condone his mission and hold off on allowing foreign nations to involve themselves until an effort for peace have been attempted first.


    Justin stared at the text in incomprehension. A private negotiator? Who the fuck had the brass balls to stick their dick into this quagmire and try to stiff the nations of their payday?


    Justin would likely get to meet them. And tell them to fuck off to their face. He wanted this war. He needed this war. It was perfect for starting the rearmament process across the world.


    He needed Africa to work for him. And this was as good of an excuse as he''d ever get.


    The African Union could theoretically all band together and invade Wakanda themselves, theoretically. It would be one way for Africa to get ahead. However, their militaries were neither on par with the major powers, nor well funded enough to both keep other powers out and fight a war at the same time, not to mention the logistics issues or the fact putting soldiers from nations who have been killing each other - on the same team, was a recipe for disaster. There was also the literal suicide it would be for several smaller nations to lose out on foreign aid if they tried to shut out the western and eastern powers like that.


    The facts were that many nations in Africa depended on foreign aid to feed a not insignificant amount of their people, not to mention the medicine the UN and various organizations provided. Although that would be less of an issue with Panacea becoming available.


    Which would take time, as production of the serum, the cradles, as well as the training and hiring of providers and security teams would take much longer then simply buying the locales to administer the treatment in.


    But like with any new drug, Africa was the continent where people were the least likely to be able to actually afford it. But Justin could change that¡­


    He was already reaching an almost heroic status amongst the people there for creating Panacea in the first place, even if they didn''t have it yet. Imagine how it would be once they got it? Oh, Maya and Helen had done the work, with some assistance from Vanko - but Justin was who people knew.


    He relaxed in the armored limo, enjoying a drink as Elena and Domino actually chatted like old friends all of a sudden, Elena somehow managing to win the bodyguard over within ten minutes, chatting about female rights from what he was hearing, and the efficiency in female mercenaries. Heh, the woman knew her audience.


    Ford hired good people, Justin thought, hiding a smirk with the rim of his glass of whiskey. Domino wasn''t calling her a whore now, was she?


    He went back to his thoughts on how he could transform Africa to be what he needed. Letting the two women fill the air with background noise. Listening to two women with honestly insanely sexy voices - helped him relax more than the drink did.


    So¡­ The African Union.


    The fact of the matter was that the African Union was in no way homogeneous. Many countries had frequently warred with each other fairly recently - many hated their neighbors or distrusted any outsiders, they were not cooperative in the same manner as the European Union was. (For a generous consideration of the word cooperative) So this war against Wakanda¡­ It really held no real positives for Africa.


    And to Justin. That sounded like a literal dream come true. The fact of the matter was that Earth was wholly unprepared for any extraterrestrial advance - even from lowly space pirates.


    The Chitauri invasion would have been devastating if not for the plot derived ridiculously small portal created for them. There was no guarantee it would be that small again. Justin both intended to have the militaries of the world prepared - and start a space industry - to eventually morph into an actual space fleet, with hopefully a lot of Chitauri salvage giving them a boost eventually.


    Not even Justin believed they''d have an operating space industry in four years, so the invasion might uplift their capabilities slightly depending on what chitauri tech they could get their hands on.


    What Justin needed was the room to create an entire space industry from practically scratch, because then it would be his. He intended to strike a deal with the African Union. He didn''t give two fucks about if the countries were democratic, tyrannies, run by a matriarchy - hell, Magneto could conquer one of the countries for all he cared. it wouldn''t matter. He just needed them onboard.


    He''d offer them all the free desalination plants to go with the - built at his own expense - unlimited energy capabilities of Arc reactors up and down Africa - bringing clean power and more importantly abundant clean water to Africa. It would mean he''d operate on a loss in Africa for years - at least a decade probably, but the rest of the world''s profits would keep him afloat easily. Preferential trade deals signed in return for the cheap energy would pay him back ten times the cost eventually anyway.


    He intended to spend every dollar he made elsewhere into building up an infrastructure to prepare for the future, he''d hire anyone with a pulse, he could pay them lowball wages for now, due to the conditions - in return for free Panacea for his employees, taking care of some of the societal issues due to having a healthy, disease free society. And garnering extreme amounts of loyalty to him and his brand.


    Once things started to build up he could slowly raise wages to match. It would take a decade minimum, to build up enough of the workforce and educate them enough to be at an optimal level - one reason to choose Africa as well being the buy in from the populace would be huge - he wouldn''t have to worry about finding enough people willing to work, or compete for people getting the education to get there - his MegaCorp would be the only game in town. His only lack would be in enough teachers and infrastructure to get people up to that level. But in the meantime he could fill that out with hires from overseas to get the ball rolling.


    Not to mention he''d have plenty of qualified people to at least build up and start it with - the idea of Africans all being uneducated was derived from charity organizations showing videos of little tent cities of starving people, that was in no way indicative of all of Africa.


    There would be enough people for him to get going. And his construction company would truly become global when he hired millions of Africans to it, and paid his own company to perform the work. An investment that would pay off well in the future after, as he''d never run out of things to build, and trusted his own company far further than outsiders.


    Clean energy, water, jobs, infrastructure projects, roads, ports, airport expansions. Justin would do it all, would own it all, even if some of it he''d have to let the government in on in regards to infrastructure¡­ And all of it without any risk that any of the fifty plus nations would ever be big enough to protest or ruin him - not that he''d ever give them a reason to.


    Dealing with all these countries would be much easier than doing the same with the egotistical countries on the UN Security Council.


    He was interrupted from his thoughts as Domino gestured for his attention. He raised a questioning eyebrow.


    "I just hired her for you." Domino said bluntly, her eyes twinkling in mirth, "She''s good people, you''re welcome."


    Justin coughed lightly, playing with his tie as he looked for a way to put his thoughts in words. It''s not that he disagreed about hiring a competent worker, but..


    Elena looked slightly worried as Justin didn''t immediately affirm her hiring, but Domino waved a hand dismissively, "Don''t worry, he''s trying to find a polite way to say that if you''re hired, he can''t fuck you." She snorted, "And he really wants to!"


    "Domino!" Justin coughed out, almost spilling his last finger of Whiskey all over himself.


    "What? It''s the truth, boss!" Domino said with a quirky smile, before turning to a blushing but also smirking, Elena, who was almost preening, "He had that policy before, to not fuck his employees, then he went and stuck it in this scientist with a crush working under him anyway, and she''s been kinda pining since. So¡­"


    Elena laughed lightly, pulling her ponytail in front of her in a smooth motion as she seemed to think the situation over, before smirking, giving Justin a dangerous look, "You could hire me in Johannesburg, I have to send my report to my bosses anyway before I can be¡­ Hired¡­" She suggested. Suggestively.


    Justin really didn''t need the complications of another employee going all moon eyed at him, even if he thought Elena was a different breed of woman from Helen Cho.


    Elena looked like she could go a round of MMA and then walk down a catwalk. Not quite the innocent and endlessly curious woman like Cho.


    "Alright." He said. Completely contradicting his brain. What''s the worst that could happen?


    Way to go Justin¡­


    He switched his mind to Africa again, putting the complications of his love life to the wayside. Damn his libido, he was fucking like Tony Stark after all¡­


    He was sure he wouldn''t get unanimous buy in at the start. The African Union was too divided, too many dictators would be hesitant to let him in until they realized he didn''t give a shit about how many opposition leaders they tortured. But if he could get even thirty countries on board - the rest would fall in once they saw the build up begin.


    Or they''d be deposed by a populace desperate for Panacea. Either worked for him¡­


    Once they had enough Wakandan tech to figure out their aircrafts, which would boost their space capabilities - it wouldn''t take too long to figure out space vehicles for mining asteroids and the like, perhaps a nice proper space station out there as well to process it.


    With the likes of Vanko and Sterns (hopefully Hulk the movie would still happen there) putting their big brains on it. As well as other scientists putting themselves to use - and with plenty of Vibranium in the world''s hands - coupled with arc reactor tech and unlimited energy, a space force wouldn''t be a pipe dream anymore.


    It just wouldn''t be easy or quick either. Although the MCU world being kind of ridiculous, seemingly allowed for faster growth than was logical at times. He''d managed to build an Arc reactor plant in Texas in what, a year and a half?


    And, Justin would with great distaste¡­ Even contract the likes of Stark to do a couple pieces for space capabilities if necessary, he could put aside his dislike if it meant he boosted the probability to get Earth prepared sooner¡­ If the man asked nicely to get to play.


    America, the EU, China, they all had a possible quicker route to achieving all this. They had better everything. But they also had innumerable roadblocks. Red tape. Special interests, organizations like SHIELD and HYDRA, all of them were more prevalent and more intertwined with the major powers and would want their own pieces.


    If this went through the UN, some pieces would be built in Russia, some in France, some in China, some in America and so on and so on - hardly speeding things up. Who knew what the likes of HYDRA would pull off there too.


    For some reason HYDRA didn''t have a huge presence in Mozambique or Angola, go figure.


    They also would never accept Justin having a controlling interest in the space industry and space defense if he set up on their step. They''d want practically full control. He had the president by the balls in a general sense, but when it came to things this big - that wasn''t enough to smooth the process over.


    Even Ellis would fall on his own sword rather than put US interests in space under Hammer.


    Considering how ineffective the UN was¡­ Justin would not allow the major powers to control space. Hammer industries would become the premier mega corporation on Earth, and he would defend the planet, the major powers¡­ Simply his customers. He didn''t need China and the US waving dicks at each other in space - they had too many genocidal enemies out there to be able to afford that stupidity.


    Oh they''d be there, on his space stations, his company producing the weapons, armor, tech, etc. He wouldn''t be able to control every variable, since he needed the armies of the various countries - but he''d have the influence to be the voice above all else.


    The Earth needed Hammer.


    Now all he needed to do to really get it started¡­ Was to convince a bunch of petty politicians, where at least a third were corrupt or held no interest in the betterment of their people, to go along with his wishes.


    Luckily Justin already had done some work during these past two years, creating a substantial amount of jobs in Africa by building a ton of factories - majority of them in the southern and northwest parts - so he needed to spread that out, but it gave him some credit, showing that he fulfilled his promises.


    After all, those factories had practically stood empty until recently as he didn''t want to get exposed by beginning production too early. And yet he''d still paid to keep staff on, having them do training or education while waiting. Building goodwill.


    That would give him the benefit of the doubt. Especially compared to the general view of US companies outside America.


    They arrived soon after to the airport, his security safely getting him on the plane, Elena being a good sport about the second frisking before she was allowed onboard, her first frisking happening before their meeting. His security operating handheld scanners that could catch most anything nowadays.


    Except fucking Mystique. He''d have to find something for that¡­


    As he sat down in his luxurious seating area, an absolutely ancient man handed him a drink. Justin glanced at him in surprise, wondering when they''d started hiring octogenarians, then practically choked on his tongue when he really focused on the person in front of him.


    The old man, looking remarkably similar to Stan Lee, patted him on the shoulder, "You''re an interesting boy, Justin." He said with a roguish smirk, "But you''re never going to be famous if you keep upping the rating over PG-13." He looked over at Elena meaningfully, Justin following his gaze.


    When he looked back, there was no old man. Justin wasn''t about to make himself look like a fool, so he used the playback feature on his glasses - only to find that they showed no such interaction.


    Fucking Marvel, he thought, wondering if Stan Lee was One Above All or some shit.


    Elena sat down next to him, and Justin stopped thinking about it. There were far better things to concentrate on.


    Like the fact that Elena had taken ballet in her youth and was extremely flexible.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Hours later,


    Pym household. San Francisco.


    Hope Van Dyne stared at her phone, not sure how she felt about the phone call she''d just recieved.


    Her father walked into the room, giving her a puzzled look, "What''s wrong, Hope? You look like you''ve gotten bad news¡­"


    Hope blinked, gathering herself, giving her father a wry look, "Not bad really. Just strange."


    Hank sat down at the kitchen table heavily, cleaning his glasses, "Alright, lay it on your old man, let me impart some wisdom."


    Hope couldn''t help but laugh, looking at him in some disbelief, "Wisdom dad? From the Hank Pym? Are you feeling alright?"


    He grunted, pointing a finger at her, "I don''t need you being smart with me, Hope, now tell me what''s going on."


    Hope played with the phone in her hands, trying to organize how she felt about it, "I think¡­ Justin Hammer just asked me on a date¡­" She said, feeling confused."He just called me up from landing in Johannesburg, said he''d thought of me and wondered if I wanted to go out for dinner when he gets back to the states."


    Hank let out a relieved sigh, earning a weird glance from Hope, "Okay, not the reaction I expected." She admitted, feeling slightly underwhelmed.


    Hank chuckled lightly, standing up and walking over to the coffee machine, fiddling with it, before speaking. "I was worried for a second, but Hammer is constantly surrounded by supermodels and the like, so I''m sure this is harmless."


    ¡­"Excuse me?" Hope said, almost struck speechless, her phone clattering to the table as she dropped it in shock.


    Hank blinked, looking confused as he peered back at her, "Yes? You''re obviously not his type, honey. You''re actually intelligent." He scoffed, "Not someone Hammer would go for."


    "Dad¡­ Stop talking." Hope ordered, grinding her teeth together, almost not able to believe what she was hearing. Unfortunately tact was not something her father had ever heard of.


    Hank shook his head, making a pleased noise as the coffee machine spluttered into working order, "Hope, I don''t know what''s gotten into you, not being desired by the likes of perverts like Hammer is a plus, not a negative. It likely means this is a solely business related meeting."


    Hope took a deep breath and counted to ten, but her father was still there when she was done, so it didn''t work out as intended. "I am only good for talking business with, is that it?" She asked dangerously.


    "I don''t understand¡­ That''s your job, honey?" Hank asked, looking confused.


    Hope snapped up her phone, her chair clattering back as she stood up suddenly, biting out at her father, "Well I''m going on this date, I''ll be wearing a dress, it will be short, there will be dancing, and absolutely no business talk, it''s a date!"


    "Hope!? What''s gotten into you!? Hope!" Hank called out as she stormed off.


    "Maybe Justin Hammer!" She shouted back snidely, slamming the door on her way out.


    Oh god¡­ She thought as she leaned back against the front door.


    Now she had to go on that date. And he probably wanted to see her for business just like her dad said. Ugh, why were men so stupid?


    Why was he even calling her anyway?


    £ª£ª£ª


    With Justin, minutes before his phone call to Hope Van Dyne,


    Elena cuddled into his chest drawing little circles on him with nimble fingers that made him shiver, the jet inbound to Johannesburg now - a notification popping up on his watch as they start to land.


    Remember to call Hope, start making inroads for Pym technologies before you forget again, dumbass.


    Justin sighed as he searched for his phone, right, he better get on that, having so many businesses on the go, all the politics and work that went into it - he kept forgetting minor details - like Hope. God he needed more minions, competent ones. As it was Bakshi, Phantazia and Domino had barely had a day off in forever.


    Also he was an asshole when he set reminders for himself.


    Well, better just get her out of the way before he''d have the African Union and this negotiator to deal with.


    He searched up her number and pressed call, stifling a yawn. Elena had really worn him out.


    Worst case if he didn''t have time, he could just substitute Elena for himself in doing a potential dinner with Hope, right? She was working for him now.


    "Hey, Hope, it''s Justin, Justin Hammer."


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 8: The World on Fire.

    £ª£ª£ª


    Ivan Vanko looked over the blueprint that one of the Hammer industries research drones had sent him, grunting in amusement - the reward for good work was only more work, it seemed.


    He had dozens of different projects already, thankfully the research division wasn''t entirely incompetent, even to his standards, so much of the work could be offloaded onto them after he proved the viability of any given project. Hammer just kept asking for more and more though - thinking Ivan an unlimited well of innovation.


    Which was flattering in a way, and very annoying at times. Ivan had hardly had time to take Whiplash for a spin lately. He was insanely jealous that Vulture and Scorpion got to kill some fools while he''d been busy tinkering. He didn''t begrudge Hammer the situation too much, the man had revealed the previous alien incursion, so Ivan understood the hurry.


    No one wanted some aliens to come down while humanity still wielded sticks.


    It was simply straining him, that once he finished something, anything. Hammer had something else for him.


    Tech to prevent mind reading for example, Ivan wouldn''t even have known where to start if not for his father, who knew details of old Soviet projects that had included such research.


    Hammer wanted it soon, but he also wanted the other projects soon too, which limited Ivan''s capabilities in delivering on them by cutting his focus. He chugged down the last remainder of a bottle of vodka, ignoring the pinched expression of his assistants - that nagged at him constantly that bottles of alcohol were not a safe thing to hold - while utilizing a blow torch, and other such silly beliefs.


    Americans were really too sensitive.


    He needed more Russians on the team. Proper men. As it was, he was drinking half as much as he used to just to avoid his assistants looking more pathetic than usual.


    The requests from Hammer was beginning to stack up now, as more and more work came in, he didn''t even know where to start on some of them - he hated to admit it, but he needed more people of the extraordinary kind. Hansen and Cho were good, but not really in his field.


    "Ivan, are you slacking off again?" A bellow came from the other end of the workshop. Followed by an almighty crash of machinery and loud cursing in Russian.


    Ivan rolled his eyes as the assistants panicked and rushed over, whimpering about safety standards or something. If his father had the breath to curse, he was fine. ''Drinking isn''t slacking off!" He shouted back in Russian, a grin on his face.


    Arguing with his father again, it eased his heart like it hadn''t in years.


    "And you''re not sharing? I''ve raised a neglectful son¡­" Anton Vanko grumbled, his mechanics overalls covered in soot and oil as he walked over, looking as healthy as ever, his skin a good color - life in his eyes and surety in his steps. A far cry from the weak, thin, sickly man he''d been.


    Ivan might not be much of a follower normally, but for giving him his father back, he''d build whatever Hammer wanted, he''d watched his father slowly die, painfully, without any assistance - any money to help - because Stark had stolen from them by stealing his father''s creation.


    Now¡­ Now Ivan had more money than he knew what to do with, a likely Nobel prize coming of all things - and his name on the arc reactor. Not Stark''s. Even if he had to share it with Hammer, it was still worth it. He only wished he could see Stark''s face, could see him find out that the Vanko''s had returned to claim what was theirs. A pity that Hammer likely did away with the man.


    He''d protested of course, claimed innocence, but Ivan wasn''t stupid. They''d waited precisely for the man''s disappearance, Hammer had it all planned out from the start. It was obvious. If anything Ivan respected the man''s ruthlessness and patience, waiting so long, preparing, and then pulling the trigger at the exact time where everything aligned perfectly for him.


    Ivan would have preferred to do it himself, but if Hammer did away with Stark, he could be satisfied with that outcome too. Not as satisfying as spitting in his face, but Ivan soaring sky high while Stark ate dirt, worked as well.


    Ivan scoffed at his father as the man came closer, waving at the well stocked bar at the edge of the lab. "You''re just angry that I thought of having a bar in the lab and you had to walk fifty miles through knee high snow, uphill, both ways, before getting a drink after work, old man." He mocked, gesturing with the empty vodka bottle.


    Anton smirked, gently smashing Ivan over the head with a wrench, "70 miles, Ivan! Get it right." He grumbled, as Ivan rubbed his head, laughter bubbling up through his chest.


    "Is my son too lazy to help his old man figure out this damn project?" Anton asked, gesturing to the still smoking pile of machinery at the far end of the mechanical lab.


    "Yes." Ivan said cheekily, rolling back on his little rolling stool before he could take another whack from the wrench, "But I''ll help you anyway, since you can''t figure it out." His grin widened as his father grumbled some more.


    It felt good to shoot the shit with his father again, even the bump from the wrench felt like home, familiar.


    Their assistants fluttered around nervously, as they always did when Ivan and Anton only spoke in Russian. They really should learn the language, Ivan wasn''t about to cut them any slack. He was the genius here, they should adapt to him, it only made sense.


    He rolled over to the bar, grabbing another bottle of vodka. They''d do better work while a bit wasted anyway - out of the box thinking came easier, and if they were to deliver Hammer''s improved concrete they''d need to drink a lot of vodka.


    Negotiating a lifetime''s supply of free vodka into his contract might have been the best clause in his contract behind curing his father. He could afford as much as he wanted anyway now, Hammer paid very well, but free Vodka always tasted the best. Vodka would lubricate their minds so they could deliver the next innovation for Hammer.


    Neither Ivan or Anton knew a single thing about building roads or buildings, so they were operating on guesswork and whatever their assistants could provide them to make improvements to concrete and asphalt for sturdier, more long lasting material - and with a great bonus if they could pull it off cheaper too.


    So far they''d only managed to break a lot of things.


    Which was fine.


    Hammer was good for it.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Johannesburg, Africa, Private jet belonging to Justin Hammer.


    Yelena used every lesson she''d ever had in the red room to maintain her facade instead of hyperventilating in a panic. Smiling weakly at the employee that was controlling the cradle she was still ensconced in, Hammer''s jet was the only place in Africa able to administer the treatment at this early point of the rollout - so after landing, she''d remained, waiting on the staff to administer her treatment as a new employee of Hammer industries.


    It had been optional, but she hadn''t wanted to stand out by completely refusing, her orders clear, so she''d accepted the lowest dose as necessary for her cover.


    Yelena, going by Elena, they''d hardly even bothered with her cover, really, that was just ridiculous! Had been given the lowest level Panacea, all going as planned, immunity to a cold or flu not anything that would threaten her mission. Yelena had been under the red rooms control of course, so she couldn''t have opted for the more extensive treatments anyway - even if Hammer offered them as a matter of course. Her orders made it impossible for her to do something that might affect her conditioning or flush the drug out of her system.


    So Yelena had easily charmed the staff, flirted a little, while avoiding any mentions of taking any other shots, happy with simply receiving Panacea - 1 and maintaining cover. She had done her job a little too well though, her red room training finally leading to a mistake that had allowed her to become free of the haze. The tech working the cradle had noticed her missing uterus when she was scanned, and with her having utterly charmed the men, they inserted the heaviest treatment, Panacea - 3, without letting her know, thinking they were doing her a favor.


    Which in the end they had. But not the red room controlled Elena. They''d freed Yelena instead.


    The treatment that was able to regrow lost limbs¡­ Or organs¡­ And the treatment her conditioning would not allow her to take because of the possibility it could cure the drug running through her system. And she''d lucked out and received it anyway.


    It had been a complete rejection of medical standards - they weren''t doctors so maybe they hadn''t understood it? But this one mistake Yelena could only be thankful for, as she tried to not break down and break her cover. Because now was not the time to fall apart. She couldn''t let anyone know, couldn''t let Dreykov know that she was free.


    It was like she''d been born again, slipping out of a miasma of not her, of something else controlling her actions, not even her thoughts free as she faithfully carried out orders.


    The red room had been hired to get close to Justin Hammer, a wealthy industrialist that had begun making moves that would likely make him the world''s first trillionaire. Yelena had been tapped by Dreykov, been personally instructed to do anything to get close - to do nothing to harm Hammer, in fact she was to protect him if necessary, to be able to get close and get any and all information on him, his allies, and company.


    She''d been briefed on what the red room had on the mercenary Domino, and it was their belief that as long as Yelena was looking to protect Hammer, her powers would not kick in and reveal her at an inopportune moment, even if she was also spying.


    Yelena had followed orders, even if it was insane to count on something so flimsy. Insane until it worked.


    It had gone beyond their wildest assessments, when Domino had hired her after their first meeting, they''d planned on the operation to take at least three months before she could get inside the company. Arranging her position at Ford, pushing for further meetings using her looks to entice Hammer, that had been the original plan, which Domino had upended in one conversation. (It also helped that Hammer was apparently such a horndog that he fell in one meeting.)


    Yelena had used everything they knew about the woman to be appealing to her, personality wise - which had worked far better than she''d ever imagined. Then even better, Hammer had been infatuated enough to sleep with her. Further tying her closer.


    Yelena made a face, as she climbed out of the cradle, funny how she was completely fine with that only hours ago - and now she felt very uncomfortable at having used her body for such with Hammer.


    It was just skin, nothing to get emotional about, but she felt a slight tension at having manipulated someone she now owed so much to.


    He''d technically saved her, even if by proxy, and she''d used him to get close, all with the aim to ferret out his secrets and weaknesses for whoever had hired the red room. She hid the slight shaking of her hands by sticking them in her pockets, smiling at the medical staff, staying polite and attentive while she just wanted to go hide in a corner and scream for a minute.


    Everything had changed. Everything. If Panacea could cure mind control¡­


    She had been saved, liberated.


    And now, she could liberate everyone else.


    The plan to get close to Hammer still remained. Not only for cover to ensure the red room didn''t attempt to eliminate her or recapture her - as they surely would if she ran - but now for another reason.


    If she proved useful enough¡­


    Hammer might help her save all of her sisters. Bring down the red room.


    She''d have to be careful, get his measure first.


    There wouldn''t be a point in getting out from under the yoke of the red room just to be leashed by a man cut of the same cloth.


    If Hammer was a decent man¡­


    Then every dream Yelena had ever held could possibly come true.


    She wiped at her eyes as she stepped off the plane, hold it together, she scolded herself, bringing back the facade. She didn''t only have this option, she could also find Natasha¡­


    Her steps faltered, in her distraction at the events of her awakening, she''d forgotten¡­ She put her sister out of her mind, her focus going completely business like as her training took over.


    She returned inside the plane.


    She needed to convince the men to not share her missing uterus with anyone up the chain - and ideally they''d know how to remove the procedure happening from the cradle - if it kept a scanning history in the first place.


    Her plot would not work if Hammer had any knowledge on Black Widows and heard of this. Even if he didn''t know, one of his guards might. Both Domino and Phantazia were mercenaries with contacts on the darker side of the world.


    One sob story coming up, she thought with a mental sigh, hoping it would work.


    It was preferable to the alternative.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Alexander Pierce scowled as he slowly put his phone down. It wouldn''t do to smash it, having another built with the proper security would be a pain.


    It almost made him wish for a landline so he could so satisfyingly slam it to end a call, but the security measures they operated under would never allow that.


    The other HYDRA heads were being foolish again, shaken up by the throes of change the world was undergoing. Too used to old trusted ways, to see the opportunity for what it was.


    A world in chaos would cry out for order. Project Insight was years away from completion, but even without it, HYDRA could capitalize on the winds of change. If they weren''t so foolish as to clip the wings of the agent of chaos¡­


    The knee jerk reaction of sending a HYDRA team after Hammer had been foolish and hasty. It was a pity that Sunil Bakshi had turned out to be more loyal to Hammer than HYDRA, but at least the failed attempt revealed that much, if nothing else. There just hadn''t been any need to attempt it in the first place in his opinion. The man''s secrets weren''t more important than the effect he had on the world, and he''d sell his innovations to all comers anyway, so they hardly suffered from letting him churn out more.


    As far as his read on the man was, Hammer would sell his weapons whether it was HYDRA in charge, a democratic government, a tin pot dictator - or any other form of governance. Egoistic money hungry billionaires weren''t that hard to figure out.


    He was already technically selling to HYDRA, after all.


    Alexander always did get a chuckle out of spending SHIELD budgetary allocations on stocking up HYDRA with more weapons and tech, even if it took some doing to keep such things hidden from Nicholas. Who was becoming a little too ornery lately.


    It might be time for a change, to usher in a new world required sacrifices in the end¡­


    Alexander scowled again as he stood up gingerly, walking over to the window to stare at the thunderous night sky, his hands behind his back as he discarded the thought, Nicholas was too useful at the moment. With all the issues he''s having with the other HYDRA heads, he couldn''t afford to make SHIELD go through a regime change right now.


    That fool Gideon¡­ He thought, clenching his teeth in anger. He''d tried to reason with the man, but he was dead set on getting someone close to Hammer, to spy and ferret out weaknesses and avenues to exploit. In fact, Alexander had a suspicion that the man had already set something in motion with how evasive he''d been.


    Gideon''s assets were not fully known to him, but he doubted he had anyone that could succeed where everyone else - including the Black Widow - had failed.


    So likely outside contractors. Even more foolish of his fellow head, Gideon would get information only through the sieve of whatever the contracted party felt like sharing - if they succeeded. The last thing they needed was for Hammer to suss out another HYDRA attack, they didn''t want the man focused on rooting them out.


    He already knew far too much through whatever Bakshi knew. He hadn''t had much access, but if he''d fooled his handler and station chief so easily, he could have also been privy to information he shouldn''t have had. Those two men had - of course - already been liquidated for such a momentous failure, they''d failed too significantly by allowing Hammer to gain knowledge on HYDRA by flipping one of their people unhindered.


    It also spoke more than anything of arrogance, Bakshi should have been on a tighter leash, they''d dropped the ball there. Gideon shouldn''t even have had his hands into that branch, and yet he''d meddled, and fucked up¡­ And now he was angling to compound that mistake by doubling down.


    If Gideon set Hammer against them right now¡­ If he set them in the crosshairs over misbegotten fears¡­


    Gideon really was becoming a thorn in his side at such a critical juncture, Alexander thought.


    Times like these were when the Winter Soldier would have been useful¡­ Even if ''taking care'' of another HYDRA head without permission was liable to create its own set of issues. Gideon had argued Hammer was behind that catastrophe as well, and while Alexander wasn''t ruling anything out in regard to the expertly performed attack that deprived them of their Winter soldiers, he had also been in the game long enough to not fall into recency bias - believing the current ''enemy'' was behind everything that happened.


    Overestimating an enemy was just as damaging as underestimating them. They would do themselves a disservice if they looked at Hammer for every ill that fell on them.


    HYDRA had plenty of enemies, albeit most of them were unlikely to have the knowledge and access to find out about the Winter Soldier''s whereabouts. It was still possible, however.


    He believed it more likely someone else in HYDRA had decided to make the Winter Soldier their asset solely. Once he''d pop up for missions again, he''d have his answer. He hoped it was Gideon. It would remove the necessity to have to explain to the other heads why he killed him.


    He put the aggravating coward out of his mind, switching back to Hammer, and the attack against him that had thrown the world into war.


    Not since 9/11 had America seen such a brazen attack on its soil - and just as then - it was proving a boon to HYDRA. Already those with the right connections could see the shift, the slide towards authoritarianism in the government. Congress was crying out for more stringent laws on communication, border control, easier thresholds for seizures and detainments and a bevy of other measures to ''defend'' the country.


    Alexander was quietly pushing this along, for once with the conjunction of the other heads. All their political assets in America and abroad making the same moves, slowly cutting away at rights. It would simplify things once the world begged for HYDRA''s protection.


    Hammer had brought it all on with his hamfisted releases, galvanizing the enemies of progress into one block, forcing them into the open. It would serve HYDRA well, to cull some of these actors, or at least, it would serve Alexander well.


    The further along Hammer could push the world, the more chaos would ensue, the more the foolish sheep of the world would cry out for a steady hand - for order to soothe their easily confused minds - for Alexander to lead them.


    It was for the best that no other head spoke up about recruiting Hammer. Alexander would not suffer a rival, let the man continue to seed the world with tech, to send it into turmoil.


    Alexander would be the one to benefit in the end.


    A small smug smirk grew on his face as he stared at the night sky.


    And the next time aliens descended to his planet, he''d send them packing. Hammer''s advancements of course, but him leading them, him taking the credit.


    He only needed Wakanda to not do something too foolish, and his people could slip into the very highest echelons of the military and Congress. They just needed to remain a distant threat, sharpening fears as his people worked behind the scenes to grasp more power.


    Once project Insight did become operational, Alexander would already be primed to reluctantly, for the good of the world of course, take hold, and usher them into a world of order.


    Hail HYDRA!


    Hail¡­ Alexander Pierce!


    £ª£ª£ª


    Johannesburg, Africa.


    Justin truly detested politicians, he''d been in Johannesburg for three days now, and they were still squabbling. Oh, in essence most of them agreed they should take Justin''s offer, in fact many of them were quite eager to do so.


    They all drooled at the opportunity for unlimited cheap energy and what that would do to their industry sector - the clean water and the desert reclamation projects he''d suggested, practically sending the AU into a collective orgasm on the spot.


    The way all these things would revitalize Africa as a whole was really an impossible deal to turn down, not even the dictators were saying no - it was just too good, a dream come true.


    Yet¡­ Even with every politician here wanting what he was selling, down to their very souls, willing to sell their firstborns for the opportunity. They still hadn''t come to an agreement.


    When it came down to it, there were too many factions when you had 55 member nations all with their own special interests and history with each other. There had been a lot of petty infighting so far more than anything concrete discussed.


    Some of that had been Justin''s own fault, admittedly. The African Unions actual headquarters was in Ethiopia, in Addis Ababa. So that would have been a fairly safe, neutralish meeting ground, all things considered. No one could complain if he''d gone to the seat of the African Union, correct?


    Justin, and Bakshi for that matter as well, had made a small error when they''d requested a meeting at the union''s ''earliest convenience''.


    They''d put down a location in that message, Johannesburg, because Justin had found it amusing, remembering Hulk''s rampage through the city and now it would be holding a historic meeting for the continent''s future. With how massive his proposal was, and his outsized effect on world economics in the last few weeks. The African Union hadn''t seen much point in arguing with him on the location.


    Now that he was here though¡­ They''d spent most of the first day, after Justin laid out what he wanted to do in Africa to all the member nations - arguing about petty procedural issues. Ethiopia was none too pleased that South Africa would be getting the lionshare of attention in any announcements of a potential agreement.


    Likewise there were many countries who weren''t too fond of South Africa and supported Ethiopia. Just as there were many who did the opposite, arguing that all that mattered was where they were now, and that South Africa was more well known abroad anyway and would be perfect for the announcement.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    Politicians¡­ They hadn''t signed anything, yet they were arguing about the details of announcing the results. It¡­ Hadn''t really gotten much better once they solved that issue either¡­( basically, Ethiopia could suck it.) Now the countries who lost that argument were picking at everything, delaying any kind of agreement.


    Justin had taken a moment to himself, leaving the room to the career arguers, since his presence was hardly beneficial at the moment, and gone to stand outside the grand meeting hall, looking out the window, down at the rioting commoners that still raged on.


    It wasn''t as prevalent as it was in the western world, but here as well, protests and riots continued apace as the media continued to rile people up with worst case scenarios - the common man not quite cottoned on yet that oil and its industry were hardly going to be gone by next year. Or next decade for that matter.


    As for healthcare¡­ Well, Justin didn''t care if everyone but plastic surgeons and other jobs on the periphery of health care lost their jobs there, Panacea would do a better job for anyone sick (while paying only him). Logically, ambulances and ER''s would still be around as well, if nothing else, just to stabilize people before they could get a Panacea shot - as Justin refused to outsource his treatments outside his clinics. Most healthcare systems were horribly inefficient anyway and ranged in cost from 5-15 percent of the total GDP in most countries.


    All these protesting idiots didn''t realize how much their social programs, infrastructure, law enforcement, education and the like - would improve with the death of the health industry looming, opening up massive investment elsewhere as that heavy drain eased off.


    Either that or there would be massive income tax cuts, depending on the country and their priorities, or if they were in an election year¡­


    "Sir, I have the latest reports if you wish." Sunil said, coming up to stand next to him, impeccable as always in a dark suit, with a pale pink shirt underneath, he idly noted again that Bakshi was a very attractive man. He''d called Bakshi in to join him in Johannesburg when it became obvious this mess would not resolve itself quickly, sometimes a personal touch was needed and Bakshi was very good at ingratiating himself with people.


    Justin stepped away from the window, wincing slightly at Phantazia''s flaring nostrils as the woman glared at him, coming around the bend of the hallway. As overall security coordinator, she wasn''t always by his side anymore. His security team must have called her. He sent Domino a betrayed look, the woman blowing him a kiss in return, completely unaffected.


    "I''m perfectly safe." He defended himself with, as the woman in charge of his entire security stomped over to him and Bakshi.


    Sunil, the traitor, didn''t even hide his grin as he took a measured step away. Justin would fire him, if he wouldn''t drown in paperwork within the day without him.


    "You''re standing in front of a window, with at least five different buildings nearby with enough sight to take you out from even a half assed sniper." Phantazia said flatly, "I left you alone for ten minutes, to go to the bathroom, and you find the only spot in the building where security won''t do you shit!"


    "To be fair, I didn''t think of it, and I probably would survive a sniper bullet anyway." Justin tried to reason with her, he was her boss in the end, but when it came to security he''d given her carte blanche - something which he frequently regretted already.


    "I told you not to, when you asked why, I told you that too." Domino said casually, winking at Bakshi as the man coughed to try and hide a chuckle. The rest of the security team was looking away in the manner of men attentively eavesdropping.


    "You''re fired." Justin shot at Domino with a playful glare, wagging a finger at her, Phantazia rubbing her forehead at his antics as she pulled Justin fully away from the window, none too gently.


    Domino outright laughed at him, her arms around her midriff as she laughed and laughed, seemingly finding endless amusement at that - finally managing an answer once she caught her breath, "Oh, I really don''t think you''d survive a day without me, boss!" She quipped.


    Justin huffed, slightly amused himself despite it all, he turned to Phantazia, acknowledging her with a slightly bowed head, "I will try and avoid windows when possible." He agreed, not willing to promise anything more than that. He had agreed to more stringent security measures but he wasn''t going to go live in a bunker - this second life was meant to be an enjoyment.


    Phantazia snorted, looking tired, "I''ll take it I guess, it''s better then nothing, besides, there''s no enemy snipers in those buildings anyway, because my snipers are in those buildings." She said matter of factly.


    "Then why are you busting my balls?" Justin couldn''t help but ask, as he took a seat on one of the benches by the massive doors to the meeting hall. Bakshi joined him at his side, a tablet in his hands that he was tapping away on, briefly leaning over to let Justin look.


    The European Union is sticking firm on antitrust laws so far, the union president returned my request for a meeting with a negative, claiming any negotiation with an ''American company'' of our stature, would have to take place with the commission, not her solely. They''re digging in their heels.


    Justin sighed, feeling aggrieved at the constant poor decisions of politicians, so many of his wares were part of a monopoly, so what? They still improved lives to such an extent that it was worth it, surely? Bush had soured the European Union on anything American it seemed. Their anti-corruption and anti-monopoly laws proving a hassle - and in many cases specifically geared towards companies with a heavy American presence.


    Although with the likes of Roxxon, Oscorp and even Stark industries - they''d likely not helped the image of American corporations in Europe. Many European countries were of a more pacifistic bent and held heavy distaste towards weapon companies like his own or SI.


    "Because busting your balls is how to teach you to stop doing it." Phantazia said flatly, arms crossed, her mood settling down as she gave the security team one of her patented glares, "Don''t let it happen again, your job is to protect him, not do as he says." She ordered.


    Justin raised an eyebrow incredulously, "I think there''s something wrong with that logic, I pay their salary." He pointed out, before tapping Bakshi''s tablet, bringing out the profile on the British Prime Minister, tapping it pointedly.


    Bakshi nodded his head, and began composing a message immediately, Justin would have a look over before it was sent, but Bakshi was practically a mind reader, he doubted he''d have to change anything. If the EU wasn''t going to play ball, he''d go to a single member country and make a deal so beneficial they''d tell the EU to fuck off. The UK had his international headquarters at the moment anyway, so he''d start there.


    Besides¡­ They weren''t the fondest of the EU to begin with. If he remembered correctly from his own world, 2008-09 was the debt crisis in the EU or thereabouts, and the beginning of recession - he''d get his companies in soon enough in that case. The fools would fold, whether sooner or later - they couldn''t afford to be left behind by literally everyone else on the planet. And nothing galvanized politicians better than being able to announce more investments and jobs when the threat of recession hung over their political future.


    Whether their policies created it or not, the governing party always received the blame when a recession hit and people lost jobs in the thousands. He didn''t foresee much difficulty in seducing the British PM to his way of thinking, they were simpler than the EU on a whole.


    "She''s scarier." Domino said jokingly, pointing at Phantazia, but with the serious nods from the security team that comment received - it didn''t look like they were joking. Justin didn''t really mind too much, the attack at his New York headquarters had been illuminating after all.


    Showing him that he wasn''t nearly as safe as he had thought.


    The doors to the meeting hall opened with a slow creak, his security team immediately stepping in-between him and the door, hands on their weapons.


    The master of ceremonies, an old bald headed man with enough wrinkles to remind him of a bulldog, blinked owlishly at the multitude of armed men and women, before focusing on Justin, bowing his head.


    "Mister Hammer, they need you inside." He said politely in a tired, yet reverential tone.


    Justin perked up, seeing light at the end of the tunnel, "They''ve come to an agreement?" He asked hopefully.


    The man looked pained, "Not quite, Mister Hammer. There is a bit of an argument between the honored representative of Ethiopia and the honored representative of South Africa - and the honored representative of Nigeria sent me to ask you to intervene before it escalates."


    "Again?" Justin asked, starting to wonder if he needed to have Domino go sit in their laps to push some luck through - to just have someone, anyone, win the endless arguments. Justin honestly didn''t care which section of the union came out on top - he just wanted it done with.


    "Before you go, sir. There''s also the report from back home, the two¡­ Special operations if you will." Bakshi said calmly, handing Justin the tablet, the necessary information already pulled up to approve the next steps. "They need to move onto the next stage and only you can approve the funding."


    Justin''s glasses shone with the reflection of good news as he tapped into the report on his glasses display while he typed authorizations onto Bakshi''s tablet. Progress was being made in both Project Kilgrave and Project Killmonger.


    Good¡­ Killmonger hasn''t blown up yet¡­


    "Tell them to push forward." He ordered, rising up to join the endless bickering again, Domino groaning as she cracked her neck, ready to follow him in yet again.


    "I can literally feel myself aging in there." She muttered, "When I took this job I didn''t realize how much of it was going to be spent listening to old men talk¡­"


    Justin sighed, patting her on the shoulder, "If we go past five days, I''ll let you shoot one."


    Domino perked right up at that.


    It said something about the endless arguments that the aged master of ceremonies did not look opposed to that solution as he ushered them back inside.


    Fucking politicians¡­ Justin thought, putting a practiced fake smile on as he headed towards the commotion of two grown men hurling accusations at each other, looking ready to throw down.


    And I thought American politics was dysfunctional¡­


    £ª£ª£ª


    Hammer industries, Project Kilgrave site, America.


    Helen Cho concentrated as she slowly moved the samples into the petri dish and ever so slowly moved the dish under the scope of the microscope, a trickle of sweat on her brow as her hands kept steady for the difficult job, not wanting to lose another sample due to inattentiveness.


    When Mister Hammer had said he had a genetics experiment that was kind of out there, for her to take lead on - she hadn''t quite expected this. Even as she''d jumped on it before he could even finish the sentence.


    She''d never imagined the kind of things she could do, until Mister Hammer had shown her what was possible out there.


    She was the sole occupant of the research bunker except for the test subject. The entire bunker was insanely advanced in robotics, the test subject within a closed room that Helen couldn''t access even if she wanted to - all sample taking and tests on the comatose subject done through robotic arms, hands and devices, the samples transported out of the room through a slot in the wall into the adjacent lab.


    That research lab - where she tested the samples and studied them thoroughly - was also out of her reach. There as well, she watched through cameras from her control area - as she maneuvered robotic limbs with almost human-like hands, and performed tests - all state of the art equipment around her, all remotely controlled, the lab not even having doors to access them from her area of the bunker. The microscope she looked through? A camera was watching through the microscope, it wasn''t the ideal setting for research, but it somehow worked still.


    She even had access to different animals for testing, again all done through robotics, the animals kept in another room she held no personal access to.


    She removed her hands from the control mechanisms for the robotic limbs, bringing up her notepad into her hands as she watched how the sample interacted with her latest attempt to tease out the root cause of the mind controlling pheromones.


    She wished they''d managed to find his parents and their notes, but they were either dead or gone without a trace, since he was their experiment in the first place, they would have been invaluable.


    Normally she would be adverse to such a comatose test subject - especially one that so obviously did not volunteer, as it seemed¡­ Too ethically dubious¡­ To do such things as performing surgeries and tests on him, not to mention all the samples she''d extracted that would be quite painful. But she''d been read in on what kind of man Kilgrave was¡­


    A man like Justin Hammer saw power and he shared it with the world, bettering humankind - A man like Kilgrave, only saw their own gratification, using and abusing power and leaving no positive benefit for the world behind.


    Until now. When this pathetic excuse for a man could finally help humanity, by helping Mister Hammer.


    She''d found that she didn''t have any moral issues with what she was doing any longer after reading about Kilgrave and his exploits - instead she saw only the possibilities, how much she could help Mister Hammer if she got everything to work.


    Maybe he''d¡­ Thank her again? She shook her head rapidly, her ponytail swishing back and forth, No, Helen, science time! Not¡­ That!


    Her eyes focused back on the camera for the microscope, as she watched a virus attack the cell sample, trying to see how the Kilgrave mutation would respond, if at all. Her hands scribbled notes furiously in her notebook as she watched.


    She couldn''t wait until she got the Nobel Prize, even if she had to share it with Maya and perhaps even Vanko¡­ Maybe if Mister Hammer saw her up on stage he''d want to¡­ Focus, Helen! She shook her head again, the problem with being alone in a bunker was that her mind tended to wander¡­


    She had a lot of alone time.


    It had taken some time to get used to doing everything remotely, and she''d flubbed quite a few tests in the beginning. It was lonely work as well, her only contact with the outside world was through video calls, and even then, she wasn''t allowed to do so to anyone outside Hammer industries until Project Kilgrave was either finished, or terminated.


    Not that she could reach anyone outside Hammer industries as she could only accept video calls.


    She understood the idea of it, if somehow Kilgrave managed to put her under his thrall, she didn''t even have access to his room, the lab, or any way to let him out, or to escape herself to find him help. She couldn''t even make phone calls or video calls, she could only accept them. Safety truly did come first with this site.


    She knew there was a secondary bunker around hers, where the security team watched the going ons of her lab, including - she suspected - watching her. It felt¡­ Invasive. But Mister Hammer was counting on her¡­ She felt her cheeks reddening and she put her hands on them to cool them down. Letting go after a minute, as she collected herself again.


    He''d chosen her, for this project of utmost importance. Her! Not Maya, her! So the least Helen could do was to swallow any uncomfortable feelings about being watched 24/7 and get on with doing what she loved. Playing with genetics and figuring out problems and fixing them, and¡­


    Then she''d be able to see Justin again. Or was calling him Justin too soon? Should she still call him Mister Hammer? After what they did?


    She didn''t notice as she scribbled down Doctor Justin and Helen Hammer on her notepad, surrounding it with little hearts, as she watched through the cameras as her latest experiment showed slight improvements.


    £ª£ª£ª


    African Union gathering, Johannesburg, South Africa,


    Late evening, fourth day of negotiations.


    The Victorian style building they were in created a great atmosphere for the bunch of politicians that hated each other - to mingle, dance and drink, and allowed them to pretend they were all good friends in the end.


    Justin hated it.


    "Justin! Just the man I wanted to see!" Came the obnoxiously loud greeting that reverberated around the room.


    "Oh, great. This guy." Justin said lowly, to Domino, who was his ''date'' to the soiree, since they didn''t allow a full security team to follow around the attendees for some reason.


    Domino had very much not wanted to attend. Having seen enough of everyone in this room over the last few days. But Phantazia had insisted that it had to be her, her probability power much more useful than any other guard, including herself, in such a social setting.


    Bulldozing his way through delegates without care, was the vice-president of the research and special operations division of Roxxon, which he supposed he should have known would show up here. With the whole Wakanda issue, it was no wonder Roxxon research and operations would be sniffing around. Roxxon did have a lot of business in Africa. For a given value of the term business.


    Unrelatedly, environmental hazards in Africa have climbed up steadily in every region Roxxon had settled in. At least unrelated according to Roxxon.


    Justin could handle evil. He wasn''t exactly Mother Teresa himself.


    What he couldn''t handle was stupid evil. Chasing short term profit by exchanging it for long term antagonism of everyone. What were they saving on skimping on environmental regs? Even if it was 100 million, even if it was billions, they''d still spend more over time on pointless lawsuits, killing whistleblowers, bribing politicians, etc, etc.


    Like he said. Stupid evil.


    His enmity with the Avengers didn''t count¡­ They were just six people¡­ It was fine to only antagonize six people, he told himself firmly.


    Simon Krieger was a fairly well built man, with short blonde hair and an honest looking face - with an all too easy grin regularly plastered on said face, hiding unscrupulousness and avarice under a veneer of cheer and affability.


    "Simon." Justin responded shortly, Domino melting into his side with a coquettish smile, which Justin figured hid her reaching for a weapon of some sort.


    Roxxon had recently tried to kill him after all, and amongst the many companies who''d be hurt by his ventures - Roxxon was a major one. Unfortunately they were too large to fall, and if anything would monopolize the oil market like he was doing the energy market, eventually likely buying up all smaller competitors that Justin knocked down. It wouldn''t be as profitable as it was even a year ago - but they would remain.


    "Enjoying the shindig? All in your honor basically, right? Hahaha! Great to see you, man!" Simon clapped him on the shoulder, his grin almost unnaturally wide, before he focused on Domino, eyes widening, stepping back dramatically, gasping, "What a vision of beauty, I''m in awe, you got to leave something for the rest of us, Justin!" He joked, stepping into his personal space and attempting to lightly elbow Justin, while winking.


    Or he tried anyways, Domino had lightly tugged on Justin''s arm right before that moment, getting Justin to step away just enough that Simon just elbowed air, the man looking slightly sheepish for a second, before he went on like nothing happened.


    Domino hung off Justin''s shoulder, playing at nibbling his ear, while in fact whispering to him, "I will work a whole month for free if you let me hit him."


    Obviously her frustrations at dealing with a bunch of snakes wearing old men costumes was wearing her down, she wasn''t usually that eager for a bit of violence.


    Justin admitted to himself that it was very tempting to do just that, as Simon prattled on, talking about Roxxons latest achievements. (No one asked) and specifically talking himself up, loudly and persistently. (Really, absolutely no one asked!)


    "Is this¡­ His idea of attempting to suck up to you for a job?" Domino whispered into his ear, her tone incredulous.


    Justin shook his head, muttering lowly, "No, he''s just like this." Simon, still too busy talking to notice that he''d said anything, his head on a swivel to see if any of the nearby delegates was paying attention and ultimately - preening at those who did.


    Justin couldn''t stand the guy, for all that he''d only met him twice. He was an attention seeking social butterfly (Or attempting to be) and for all that he came off as a bit of an idiot, he was actually fairly competent at his job. You didn''t rise up within research divisions in this business without having the chops.


    Let alone the kind of research and special operations a company like Roxxon dabbled in.


    Well, he matched whatever an evil corporation considered competent anyway. He wouldn''t last two seconds in Hammer industries or SI. Not in research anyway - perhaps in PR¡­ If he ever talked about anything except himself.


    "Was there a reason you approached me, Simon?" Justin asked coldly, interrupting the man, just as he was telling a story about single handedly saving the company. An obvious lie, like much of anything that he would say at any given time.


    Something ugly glinted in Simon''s eyes for a second, but as he went to answer, a waiter, by happenstance, slipped on nothing nearby, dumping an entire tray of hors d''oeuvres onto the man. Unfortunately for the man, they were shellfish. How unlucky for him. The man happened to be allergic, as they''d just heard mentioned several times during his brief monologue about a Roxxon event.


    "I''M ALLERGIC!" Simon blasted the poor waiter at full volume, his face reddening, "You fucking imbecile, my suit is worth more then your entire family down to your god damn progenitors picking fleas of each other''s back in the jungle! Do you people even have proper medical facilities to treat me!? You ignorant, stupid, trash!" He cursed, cleaning off his suit, before seemingly remembering again that he''s allergic, removing his hands quickly, before sending one last look towards Justin, seemingly hesitating on something, before finally rushing off to seek medical attention. Cursing out the poor waiter the entire way.


    Justin casually slid a business card into the shocked looking waiter''s hand, "Always looking out for people that do me a favor, call that number, we''ll find you a place at Hammer industries." He said, if anything, only shocking the young man further, as he hurriedly scurried off, undoubtedly to find something to clean up the mess with.


    "God he was annoying, guess we''re lucky, heh." Domino practically purred out, hiding her words and her grin, behind one hand. Her other hand slipped down to let go of his shoulder, pausing for a second as her smirk disappeared off her face, Domino palming something before sliding her hand off his shoulder, Justin turning, giving her an inquisitive look.


    "Don''t know what it is, something he put on your shoulder during that pat, doesn''t look like a tracker." Domino said, now more serious, as she stared after Simon Krieger. She tilted her head slightly, which Justin knew meant she was listening to Phantazia through coms.


    "Eileen is asking for permission to take him." She whispered to Justin, Domino''s eyes going across the room, watching for any other threat, the device already dropped into a glass of wine as a waiter passed by. "She also wants us to leave, she''s alerted the AU security to the device."


    Justin watched as a multitude of whispers spread amongst the delegates as security personnel began slipping into the room, "Hmm, well at least we got out of this party¡­" He muttered.


    He wondered what on earth Simon could have been thinking, what had that device been? Surely they hadn''t expected it to go unnoticed for long? He''d planted it straight onto Justin''s shoulder. They would have noticed soon enough if Domino hadn''t had the luck to run into it with her hand. He also considered the loud scene caused by Krieger¡­ Perhaps the waiter slipping hadn''t been Domino, but part of a set up? Krieger''s allergies and his tantrum - was a good excuse to leave immediately, and to make it less likely for Justin to notice whatever he put on his shoulder as he drew attention to himself.


    He only took a moment to consider it, as Domino led him out of the room, "Take him." He ordered darkly. They''d find out either way. He held no love for Roxxon and they none for him - they were already trying to kill him, what would this kidnapping change? Nothing.


    They should have kept the device to explore what it was, but Phantazia wouldn''t allow an unknown device to leave with them anyway so it wasn''t worth the argument. So¡­ He guessed they''ll just have to play a game of - Simon says.


    As a prelude to the game - Simon stops talking.


    He had a feeling Domino would be very good at that game.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Wakanda,


    T''Challa watched with mixed feelings as several aircraft took off, immediately falling into stealth.


    His father had authorized the council''s wishes for a pre-emptive strike. T''Challa was not so sure that was the right choice anymore. All they''d bring was more death. How could they hope to win? Even with Vibranium, even with the Black Panthers¡­


    He''d been approached by some like minded Wakandans, his recent reluctance of the coming war having been noticed amongst some, especially the younger generations.


    He wasn''t sure what to do. But he couldn''t go against his father. He would not challenge for the throne as the people that approached him had asked.


    Bast¡­ He prayed as the last aircraft disappeared, What am I meant to do? What is the right choice?


    £ª£ª£ª


    Shortly before noon, American time, the fifth day of the African Union negotiations.


    Washington D.C.


    A group of men and women sit solemnly together, heads bowed. They all know they''re not coming back from this.


    For Wakanda, they roared inside their hearts as they took action, as they would show the world that they can not simply take from Wakanda.


    New York,


    The War dogs, more than any Wakandan, knew that all out war with the outside world would mean the end of Wakanda. That is why they were all willing to die, rather than reveal Wakanda - the mission for Hammer''s head, somehow, for the first time, failing at keeping the secret.


    The War dogs had infiltrated the world, learned its ways, learned to blend in. But they were still Wakandan, always Wakandan, and when the order came - they still obeyed.


    One by one, from across America they arrived, slowly working their way through a city still reeling, but not yet understanding the threat. Their brothers and sisters that had access to aircraft would strike elsewhere across the world. They had their own targets.


    The UN building in New York stood proud and tall, looming over the skyline.


    Across the world, War Dogs and the arial capabilities of Wakanda approached their targets, set to inflict such a cost on their enemies that they''d realize the folly of attacking Wakanda.


    And if nothing else, the world would pay for coming after them, Wakanda would be remembered for eternity.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Johannesburg, Africa. Around noon, American time.


    Elena handed him a drink, Justin giving his new personal assistant a grateful smile, before she took a spot behind him, waiting attentively to see to his needs, not that he had many at the moment.


    Only thing he really wanted was to kill a bunch of useless African politicians, so not a job for Elena. She was frightfully clever, but not assassin material.


    They''d appropriated an office not too far from the meeting hall, Justin refusing to go too far from the fools, lest they stop everything on another stupid argument he could potentially nip in the bud.


    "So¡­ Simon is an out and out fool, then?" He said, letting out a sigh, he''d really hoped they''d get something good from a friendly chat with their Roxxon friend.


    Phantazia and Domino both looked disgruntled, they''d spent hours interrogating the man, and had even finagled the device out of the hands of AU security - and it had all been something innocuous in the end.


    The device was simply a means of giving Justin information on the sly. Given to him in the most idiotic manner. Simon Krieger was apparently hedging his bets, trying to inform Justin of possible Roxxon attacks, while also still remaining in the company in case they succeed at taking Justin out.


    He''d sung like a canary, and Domino and Phantazia had continued on far past the point where there was any real chance he was making it up.


    They hadn''t been completely clear on the details, as Elena was too new to induct into the unpleasantness of some of the things they did. Poor woman would be undoubtedly shocked if she wasn''t eased into her new reality. Most human beings, even corporate one''s with no soul - generally balked at torture.


    The information had been useful, it would allow Justin to counter the attempts, not that they''d looked terribly likely to succeed anyway. Now he faced the problem of what to do with Simon Krieger. Return him to Roxxon? Hire him by force? Retire him?


    Each choice came with benefits and disadvantages. Unfortunately the torture would likely mean Simon would hold a grudge, meaning sending him back to Roxxon would just ensure he''d be gunning for him at some point, not to mention the likelihood he''d tell Roxxon Justin was now aware of the attacks and they''d switch to other plans - ones he''d know nothing about.


    Hiring him was just¡­ No.


    He pinched the bridge of his nose. Killing him would be the easiest solution, except for the fact he''d been last seen talking to Justin - so Roxxon would likely change their plans anyway.


    "Let him go, treat him, offer your sincere apologies for the misunderstanding." He ordered, with distaste.


    If Roxxon was going to change their plans either way, they might as well let him go back with even the slightest chance he''d still continue to hedge his bets.


    Domino''s mouth dropped open, "You can''t be serious, boss!?" She squawked.


    "It''s the best solution to this conundrum." Justin said firmly, giving her an even stare, "Simon was a damn fool in the way he delivered it, that''s all."


    Such a multitude of ways he could have passed him information, including simply paying a waiter to pass him something. And Krieger had gone for the extremely public and attention grabbing avenue. Justin shook his head, taking a sip of his drink, even if he could hardly get drunk anymore, the taste soothed him, "Let him be Roxxon''s issue." He waited until Domino and Phantazia nodded, one reluctantly, the other professionally.


    Justin was still suspicious about the whole thing, so letting him go back was probably the right choice. He couldn''t shake the feeling something more was going on with this whole thing though.


    He didn''t think it was Roxxon, they weren''t this incompetent in their handlings. He wouldn''t even have suspected Krieger of being this stupid - which meant if something else was going on, Krieger had managed to keep it quiet through torture¡­


    Perhaps he was simply overthinking things. Other than Roxxon, Oscorp, HYDRA, SHIELD, he didn''t have too many other enemies¡­ He winced, internally, except every oil company, healthcare company, insurance company, and all their owners and investors¡­


    "Elena go assist Bakshi will you, he''s been drowning in work, I don''t really need anything right now." Justin ordered, swirling his glass, watching the ice cubes collide."He''ll be able to fill you in on more of the company protocols as well, get you up to speed nice and proper, because we usually don''t relax in one place for as long as we have here."


    Elena murmured her assent, giving him a quick smile before exiting the room, Phantazia begging her leave as well, to go deal with Krieger. Justin wondered again if he was making the right choice. But death was very final, and he wanted to keep an eye on the man - see if he was truly just an idiot, or if someone was behind him pulling strings.


    "You should just kill him." Domino complained as soon as they were alone, "I have a bad feeling about him." She warned, her nose wrinkled as she thought about the unpleasant man.


    Justin pursed his lips in thought, "Is this your power at work, or your dislike of the man, compounded with your annoyance at all the meetings lately?" He asked pointedly. Feeling he had the right idea of it by the way she acted.


    Domino pouted, leaning back against the wall, "Does it matter?" She fired off sullenly. Pretty much confirming his thoughts.


    "Yes." Justin answered simply. "If I killed every man that annoyed me, there would be very few men left alive."


    "But you still plan to kill Klaue just because he annoys you." Domino accused triumphantly, a smirk growing on her face as Justin couldn''t refute her.


    "Well, that''s different." Justin said with some irritation after a minute.


    Domino raised a skeptical eyebrow, smirk still in place, "I''m sure it is." She drawled sarcastically.


    A knock came at the door, one of their security personnel sticking their head in after Domino''s acknowledgement.


    "Sir, there''s someone here to meet you, says he''s the private negotiator that''s been trying to broker peace with Wakanda."


    Justin ran a hand through his hair, Talk about fighting for a lost cause. He thought with some amusement. "Fine, who is it?" He asked flippantly. He''d been somewhat curious who on earth would even champion such a doomed peace initiative.


    "Says his name is Charles Xavier." The guard responded, Domino immediately looking more aware, her eyes flickering to Justin''s as he froze.


    "Let him in¡­" He said reluctantly, wetting his lips.


    This close he could probably read him easily anyway, so he might as well see what this is really about.


    And then¡­ He''d really need to prioritize the protection against telepaths immediately.


    Thank god he wasn''t actually a proper supervillain or had any plans to use mutants for anything too dastardly.


    His plans all actually included normalizing mutants, so Xavier shouldn''t be totally against him.


    If you''re in my mind right now¡­ Fuck you, you pervert. He grumbled mentally, while steeling himself for the meeting.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Washington D.C.


    Ross screamed himself hoarse as soldiers ran around in frantic activity around him, those Wakandans had shown up from nowhere, half the Pentagon was just gone, and he was receiving reports in the half that still existed - showing that it hadn''t been the only strike.


    The White House hadn''t been hit, likely because the President wasn''t in residence at the moment, but Congress had been in the middle of a marathon legislative session - Congress no longer existed. The capitol building was gone, violent explosions tearing through it - they wanted to leave a mess this time, they were sending a message. No implosion bombs¡­


    The only good news had been that they''d managed to shoot down several Wakandan craft after they bombed the Pentagon, fighter jets and anti aircraft weaponry able to locate their general vicinity when they''d dropped their loads and filling the sky with flak and missiles.


    This was the darkest day in American history, and it was all falling in Ross''s lap while they tried to figure out if anyone with higher authority was even alive. At least the President had been on Air Force One and not attacked as of yet, half the United States Air Force was covering him right now.


    When the report came in that the UN building in New York was crashing to the ground, reminiscent of 9/11, Ross sank back into his seat, hissing between clenched teeth, his aides going pale as they got off the phone. "What else?" He barked, never having been angrier. Never felt defeat so keenly, they weren''t supposed to be hit like this. This was unprecedented - they needed to fight back, to prevent another attack.


    "It''s the president. He''s ordering full mobilization, DEFCON 1, full nuclear readiness." The aide said, his voice breaking slightly, but managing.


    Ross nodded, agreeing with the move. Only regretting that they hadn''t taken the threat more seriously. They''d never suspected the Wakandans would be so foolish - or so dangerous.


    "We are in DEFCON 1, pass it along, get every goddamn soldier with working eyes watching the sky, report any sightings of anything above a god damn bird and shoot it out of the sky."


    "Commercial flights, sir?"


    Ross grimaced, normally they''d have a whole chain of command for these sorts of things, "Ground them all." He said firmly - it was more important to be decisive right now than to wonder about who could do what, "Pass it on to Air Force One for the President''s approval."


    There won''t be a spot of dirt left of your country once I''m done with you¡­" Ross thought, swearing his vengeance on Wakanda.


    £ª£ª£ª


    At sea,


    The Chinese fleet that had been on its way to Kenya to begin building a military base and start preparing for the coming war, disappeared suddenly, losing all communication with the homeland, at the same time word was reaching China of attacks worldwide.


    The communist party declared the fleet lost, and ordered their nuclear deterrent to mobilize fully. Anyone able to take out over twenty navy vessels in a surprise attack needed nothing short of a full response in return.


    When a Wakandan ship attempted to drop bombs on the forbidden city, it was cut to shreds as the first bomb fell out of its hold, the Chinese indiscriminately firing into the sky over Beijing, also taking down a commercial airliner who hadn''t been able to get out of the no fly zone soon enough.


    All around China the air lit up as the Chinese fired at the sky, not willing to take any chances.


    Unknown to them, the other three craft were all destroyed thanks to this effort, and no further strike hit China - at the cost of losing several commercial airliners and everyone aboard that couldn''t get out of the fire quick enough.


    Kenya,


    The Kenyan government had been pressured heavily by China to allow for their presence on their soil for the coming war against Wakanda.


    They hadn''t suspected this would come¡­


    The people were shell shocked, stumbling down the dust covered streets, dead and dying everywhere, the emergency services taxed to the max, the Kenyan Senate, the National Assembly, the office of the President. They were all gone. The entire government of Kenya decapitated in one strike.


    The rest of the world was, in a way, lucky. Wakanda striking naval bases in the Mediterranean, military bases in Europe and the Middle east - not going for civilian targets.


    America and Kenya were hit the hardest when counting civilian casualties. The EU by comparison suffered the least, none of their major cities hit at all.


    Russia was the only European country to be hit more than once, losing several military bases and taking damage to their black sea fleet.


    But Wakanda wasn''t done. It wasn''t enough to hit the militaries that would face them, not enough to strike out at the leadership that chose to fight against them.


    At the same time as the world froze in horror at the news spreading across the globe..


    Wakandan War Dogs boarded freighters entering the Suez canal. They were super freighters, filled to the max and gigantic in size.


    The port authority was completely unaware the ships had been hijacked - everyone onboard held hostage and acting as normal as they could with Wakandan weapons pointed at them.


    At the same time as news hit the world of Wakanda''s actions, several ships in the canal started blowing up, the massive super freighters beginning to sink, blocking both entrances, others just behind them, sinking as well, ensuring there would be no leeway to pass through.


    Every ship currently passing through the canal was sinking, creating an impossible mess.


    The Suez Canal was officially out of business.


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 9: Need more Hammers for these nails.

    £ª£ª£ª


    Johannesburg, Africa.


    Charles Xavier rolled into Justin''s temporary office in a futuristic looking wheelchair, the wheels displaying the necessary X of course - he wore a genial smile on his face, and just like Erik Lensherr had, he looked much younger than a man his age should.


    Someone tried to follow him in and was stopped by Elena suddenly interposing herself in the door, "Excuse me, but I don''t remember hearing Xavier and guest? Please step away from the door." All said in a cold polite tone that brokered no arguments, his PA had some fire in there, Justin thought with approval, although he was somewhat confused why his PA was still outside his door with his security team. She had been on her way out of the office after all.


    "Who''s the bodyguard?" Justin asked Xavier, nodding towards the door, knowing his mind was likely being trawled through, but not able to do much about it. Least he could do was to find out which X-Men tag-along he had to contend with.


    Xavier raised a hand, looking completely at ease, "It''s alright my friend, I''m perfectly safe here, feel free to peruse the magazines, I''ve been curious to find out what new spring colors are in fashion this year." He called out, his voice slightly raised for the bodyguards benefit, before he looked towards Justin, smiling affably, "You''ll have to excuse Mimic, he gets a tad overprotective when I''m so far abroad."


    Yep, definitely read my mind, otherwise why the superhero name, he''d just have called him John or something¡­ Justin thought. The challenge of speaking with a telepath really made him wish he''d worked on a fix long before now.


    Vanko was about to get an improved budget and any helper he wanted¡­ And a larger Vodka budget.


    Justin scoffed lightly in response to Xavier, waving for Elena to close the door. He didn''t recognize Mimic - the name didn''t ring a bell, but Domino could undoubtedly handle him, not that it was needed, because Professor X could easily take them all down. "I''m sure you''re here for a reason, so we can skip the pleasantries." Justin said coldly, meeting Xavier''s eyes, "What exactly did you come to get out of my head?"


    Xavier''s eyes slid to Domino, a raised eyebrow asking his question for him.


    "I trust Domino with my life, my secrets rank far lower on that list." Justin said a kernel of anger burning in his core, he was not pleased to have been met with both leaders of the mutant faction without as much as a goddamn courtesy call! "Dispense with the pleasantries, what do you want!?"


    Domino had looked briefly touched at Justin''s words, but she was also fully attentive, her eyes never leaving Xavier''s, probably wondering, exactly as Justin was, if her power could even do anything ''lucky'' against the kind of things Xavier could do. Justin had prepared a dossier on those few people he remembered after the Magneto ambush, so Domino was well acquainted with his skills, having only known him from reputation before.


    "I understand your anger, Mister Hammer, but it is necessary, I am not your enemy." Xavier said calmly, his hands folded in his lap. He nodded towards Domino, "Nor yours young lady, no need to be tense, your master will not be harmed today." He sighed slightly as Domino did not waver for an instant, ready to attack at the slightest warning.


    "Do you usually read the minds of your friends?" Justin asked cooly, not willing to be outright antagonistic, but neither was he willing to roll over and offer the red carpet.


    "Depends on the friend." Xavier said with some humor, shaking his head slightly, "Lest I be diverted too much, let me get to the point then¡­" Xavier met Justin''s eyes, before sighing deeply, "After a slight detour first¡­ I must admit I came here on the advice of an old friend¡­"


    "Erik¡­ Or Raven¡­?" Justin asked, feeling quite annoyed, what was the point of a mutant civil war if they''re just going to go behind the barn and gossip at the annual hoedown?


    Xavier''s lips twitched a little, "Oh you do know them both that well, I wasn''t sure, splendid. Erik actually was the one to ask me to double check your intentions."


    It''s annoying that I don''t know if he didn''t read that from my mind and is honestly surprised¡­ Or whether he''s fucking with me to make me think he didn''t pluck everything he could¡­ Justin thought, purposely thinking of some of his fun time with Raven - or Mystique as he called her, as she hadn''t actually introduced herself otherwise yet - the thoughts as filthy as he could make them and all real - to see if he could make the old man flinch.


    "And what about my intentions then?" Justin asked sharply, a pleased smirk on his face, because he''d caught Xavier in a small lie, because he was in his mind, the slight flinch when he''d focused on Mystique sexy time proved it - which meant he knew exactly how much Justin knew about Erik and Raven.


    ¡­ Or he purposely flinched to make Justin feel more self assured.. God damn he hated telepathy!


    Xavier was quiet for a moment, seemingly gathering his thoughts, before he spoke up, an honest smile on his face, "I know your intentions for mutant kind matches for the most part with my own, which is a great relief, and although I can''t say I approve of everything you do, it is not my place to judge you or yours either."


    "But I''m about to hear what you don''t approve of, am I right?" Justin drawled, feeling some relief that he wasn''t diametrically opposed to a telepath of Xavier''s power, but having a good feeling about what he was going to hear next.


    "The unethical testing of¡­ Extremis?" Xavier made a face, "A smart choice to rebrand that," He muttered, "Using mutant test subjects against their will is not something I can abide, Mister Hammer." He finished reprovingly.


    Justin looked into the eyes of the greatest telepath in the world, a man that could scramble his head with a thought, and spoke, "Tough! Why should I care?" He said coldly, drawing a start out of Domino who gave him a look that clearly said - what the fuck are you doing?


    It''s called negotiation, darling!


    Xavier seemed disheartened, "Common decency isn''t enough?" He queried, despite already knowing the answer. Really? He truly lived in a world of rainbows and bubblegum - he came to meet a billionaire expecting compassion?


    Delusional.


    Justin snorted, giving him an askance look, "Show me the market where I can buy something with common decency, and I''ll think about it." He cricked his neck, staring Xavier down, "I run a business. I''ll save mutant kind. Not because I''m kind, not because I''m looking out for the children," He mocked lightly, "But because it makes sense, for world security and most importantly, financially!"


    Justin smacked a hand on his desk for emphasis as he began to lecture the so-called leader of Mutantkind. "I''m not even going to get into Magneto''s misguided nonsense - but you''re no better! You shouldn''t be building a team to duke it out with him, like your regular redneck is going to see a fucking difference between the Brotherhood and the X-Men! You should have gone commercial, touted the usefulness in abilities in business and improvements to everyday life. Yes, a lizard looking mutant might not be much up top - but if they have even a simple night vision and tough enough system - every company digging below ground, every mining consortium, subway, sewer, and a hundred other things I can''t even think of right now, would be a perfect fit! They''d pay heavily for it, and no one would begrudge them the work, as no normal human could do it the same!"


    "Easier said than implemented, not many would take well to those of us of a more concerning outwards appearance." Xavier fired back, a slight grin on his face.


    Fucker was enjoying this¡­ Justin thought with annoyance.


    Justin scoffed, "You underestimate how much things change when money comes into it. People make money off mutants, their job becomes easier maybe, less dangerous, maybe mutants can do something that can''t be done outside their powers, perhaps making a process cheaper, fixing a natural hazard, cleaning up a landfill? The whole country or state benefits, which means more money again. And best of all, there''s not enough mutants to take everyone''s job!" Justin gestured measuredly as he spoke, having been sitting on these thoughts for a while. "Politicians will do what benefits them financially, so that''s one hurdle cleared, people will see mutants working regularly - which makes them not so different - not like if they were, oh, let''s say - flying around breaking buildings while wearing spandex!"


    Justin paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts, "Now a team of mutants to defend earth as a whole, wouldn''t be as much of an issue, as that again builds goodwill, have them fly around and help with natural disasters and relief efforts when there isn''t any alien invasions to worry about¡­"


    "Quite right." Xavier agreed, which threw Justin enough to break off any further ranting, as he peered suspiciously at the man.


    "You''ve known since you wheeled in here that I thought this way." Justin said resignedly, "You''re here to deal, now, aren''t you?" Again, dealing with telepathy takes all the fun out of a negotiation¡­


    Xavier nodded, looking as pleased as the cat that got the canary, "Your theory is quite likely correct, and would be the easiest way to allow mutant kind a mostly normal life, without too much overt racism or the chance for stringent restrictive laws against us."


    "Except for the religious people." Justin deadpanned, while his mind went over this whole conversation, wondering if he was imagining Charles Xavier agreeing with him on his policies.


    Xavier winced, "Ah, yes, I fear we''ll never reach the most radical there." He said politely.


    "So you agree that in defense of the planet as a whole, and with the commercialization of their abilities - that would be the safest bet?" Justin said carefully, not looking at Domino - he couldn''t even imagine what her thoughts would be like right now.


    Two guys just affably discussing the fate of all mutant kind, based on how best to market them.


    Xavier nodded slowly, "Although it would face many pitfalls unless it was under the aegis of an entity hard to tear down." He said pointedly. "Someone who could legally protect them all without facing the backlash of the government or the people¡­"


    Justin chuckled darkly, spreading his arms out in a welcoming gesture, "Me, that is my plan, that''s true, but I''m surprised you''re willing to play along."


    Xavier smiled wryly, "That is why I''ve sought you out while I am here, Mister Hammer, so I could get a feel for you myself. You''re not a good man, in the normal definition of such, but you''ll fiercely protect what is yours, and you''re trying extremely hard to protect the world, I do not find umbrage with these things."


    "But you do find umbrage with something." Justin said knowingly, circling back to the beginning. "The mutant testing for Extremis."


    "Yes, that is concerning to me." Xavier said, face firm, "I can not do anything for those already lost, and punishing you for that would just cause more suffering, so holding you to a better standard will be my cross to bear."


    "How nice of you." Justin drawled, tapping his fingers on the desk, "I still need to figure out how the X-gene interacts with Extremis," He pointed out. "It''s not something I''m willing to leave on the table."


    Domino and Phantazia had been too loyal, working too many long hours, days, weeks, months, without days off, regeneration was the least they deserved.


    Xavier breathed out slowly, "So use volunteers for the testing after exhausting everything else, and use experts, I happen to know several mutants that have studied the X-gene extensively¡­" Xavier offered, lightly asking, "If they could get a sample..?"


    "No." Justin immediately rebutted, "If you want this deal, if you want me to employ and assist mutant kind everywhere, then they can come work for me and run this testing - will that help your sensibilities?"


    Xavier watched Justin for a moment, before smiling, "Certainly, that will do well, Dr. McCoy has been pondering stretching his legs recently."


    Justin was well aware he''d be letting a spy into his company, and he knew Xavier knew he knew. But as long as the goal was the same¡­ Fine. It was worth the risk.


    No doubt he''d get several X-Men supervising in his different divisions to ensure the mutants he employed were all treated well, but they were competent people, so it didn''t really harm him to get them for free so to speak. The things he could achieve here in Africa with Storm for example¡­


    Good luck calling her a freak after she saves a couple million people from droughts¡­ Especially backed by the support of Hammer industries who''s bringing clean water and power to the masses¡­


    And obviously even if he managed to protect his mind eventually, Xavier would obviously be poking his head into his company to ensure Justin didn''t fuck mutants over. Not ideal, but Xavier would have to let everything else Justin did go, as long as mutant kind was benefiting, because Justin did believe this was the only way forward where mutants might become accepted. One team, like the Avengers, helping with disasters, the rest, building, crafting, healing, doing normal jobs, utilizing their abilities.


    He''d always have Xavier and the X-Men poking about, but he could insulate himself from those divisions somewhat, and besides, it might not be a bad thing to know he couldn''t go too darkside¡­ Xavier apparently wouldn''t care if Hammer industries became the mega corporation of Earth, impossible to ignore, or remove. Not as long as mutants were equal to everyone else in the process.


    Magneto¡­ Was going to be an issue unless they could convince him¡­


    Before they could conclude any specifics, there was shouting from the hall, Xavier''s face turning absolutely chalk white as he reached out and no doubt plucked news out of someone''s head. Hero my ass, Justin thought, giving him a look.


    Justin might be an asshole through and through, but at least he didn''t claim to be heroic while happily mindraping people ''for the greater good''.


    Justin owned his own villainous bent.


    The door slammed open, Bakshi, looking disheveled and like he''d run to get there, standing in the doorway, breathing out harshly, "Did you turn off your phone!?" He demanded of Justin.


    Mimic following him in to check on Xavier, who looked physically ill, a hand covering his mouth, as he sagged into his wheelchair.


    "What''s going on?" Justin asked, worst case scenarios flitting through his mind. With Xavier there, his immediate thought was on Magneto, please tell me that moronic plot with rogue didn''t just kick off while we were here!?


    Bakshi looked ill as he reported, "Wakanda has struck, Congress is gone, the Americas are at Defcon 1, China lost most of their fleet with unconfirmed reports the forbidden city was struck, reports are saying imminent nuclear strike from China, America making ready to respond as well!"


    Justin grabbed his phone, cursing up a storm, of all the days to put it on silent! He ignored all the missed calls and messages from the last few minutes and dialed one number. Don''t your fucking dare you mouth breathing, barely literate, neanderthals! He cursed the world leaders out in his mind.


    He briefly wondered why the African Union hadn''t been struck, since he was sitting here as well as a nice fat target..


    The call took forever to pick up, as Justin nervously paced around the office, Mimic having already escorted Xavier away by the time the phone was finally picked up.


    "Not a good time, Hammer!" President Ellis barked into the phone, Justin having a direct line to his personal phone.


    Not a good time might be the understatement of the century¡­


    Justin raked through his hair, full of nervous energy, "Listen, I don''t care! Get on the fucking phone to Beijing and get them to call it off, Wakanda has a force field, you''ll probably just contaminate the surrounding area, or more importantly the fucking Vibranium!"


    He had no idea if the force shield would withstand a strike or two, no idea if the Vibranium would be affected by radiation whether the strike succeeded or failed - either way, he wasn''t willing to risk earth''s entire cache (excepting his stash) of Vibranium potentially becoming radioactive.


    Also he needs Africa, so don''t be a douche and irradiate it right now¡­


    "They wiped out Congress, we can''t not respond, Hammer. Same thing for the Chinese. They''ve razed NATO from the Mediterranean, razed every naval base in Europe and killed off the Suez canal, we have to respond!" Ellis argued back, sounding on the verge of a breakdown.


    Justin didn''t care, he''d worked too hard to have it all go up in nuclear fucking fallout now, "I don''t care! Respond with a full declaration of war together with NATO instead! Promise the Chinese some free arc reactors from me or something, but get them to BACK THE FUCK OFF!" He shouted into the phone, "We''re on the cusp of elevating mankind and you want to start world war three? Launching nukes is not going to stop at just you two! Everyone will get in on the game, what if Wakanda has some tech that can intercept or redirect one!"


    With their bullshit and how confidently they were striking out at the world, Justin didn''t want to consider anything as impossible.


    He was in fucking Africa, now was not the time to start dropping nukes on it!


    Ellis was silent for a moment, before he sighed, "I''ll try, but I can''t promise the Chinese anything from us, in this situation it would be political suicide to be seen backing down to the Chinese, if they back down, we will," He warned, "So you better be ready to pay the price for your peace, Hammer." And then he hung up.


    Justin threw the phone at the wall, breathing heavily. Fucking nuclear war? That''s what their first response is?


    "Bakshi¡­" He said after calming down minutely, "Use whatever contacts you have, promise them anything, suck them off if you have to, but get a message through to the president of the Communist party outlining everything I just told Ellis." Justin snorted in disgust, "I can''t trust he''ll negotiate his way out of a wet paper bag, so I want assurances the Chinese get my message, you have ten minutes, then I want that message in his fucking hands." He was about to let him go when another thought hit him, "Tell the Chinese I can open the Suez canal again soon, but not if they start firing nukes."


    Hopefully I can actually keep that promise.


    Bakshi ran off, madly tapping at his phone, as Justin turned to Domino and Elena, who''d thankfully stuck around thanks to Xavier arriving, "Get Phantazia to fuel up the jet and find us a way there, I''m needed back in America."


    And the fuck away from here right now¡­. Before Wakanda strikes at me as well. Not that distance apparently matters¡­


    "Give me your phone." He ordered of one of the security team as they began moving, snapping it out of his hand as it was offered, dialing a number immediately, "Hope," He said rapidly beginning to talk, blowing past her answer, "I need you, no¡­ The world needs you¡­"


    £ª£ª£ª


    Private jet, airspace over Africa.


    The plane was a hive of activity as Elena dealt with communications to the rest of the company, facing a real litmus test as both Justin and Bakshi were unavailable, dealing with governments instead of the company.


    Elena was in one corner, frantically typing emails with one hand while harshly dictating orders to Hammer Industries factory chief''s, PR teams, and the like - who all had never heard of her before the last few days.


    Bakshi across from Justin, tie loose for the first time Justin had ever seen, his hair disheveled, as he yelled at different functionaries from different governments, bullying his way forward, pausing briefly to hand his phone to Justin once he got through, while immediately grabbing another phone and starting another chain.


    Phantazia was up with the pilots, hoping to be able to interrupt the mechanics of any missile or flight in her vision - that hopefully would not be arriving. While Domino stood by a white board nearby the hive of activity, listing countries crossed off as talked to, labeled in columns of safe, undecided and stupid.


    Both China and USA were listed in the stupid column, Ellis not having gotten back to them yet since the phone call forty five minutes ago.


    Justin argued quietly on the phone, gritting his teeth at having to deal with the idiots in charge of nations in such a slapdash manner, these were the kind of fools you had to wine and dine a little, play a bit of give and take with. Everything was much harder when you''re cold calling them to tell them to not be idiots.


    No one wanted nuclear war, but no one wanted to be the next one struck by Wakanda''s invisible aircraft either.


    Justin was arguing until he was blue in the face, trying to explain that Wakanda didn''t have unlimited pilots and resources, for all the Vibranium they had, they couldn''t just whip up a new plane in hours and train a pilot. They couldn''t strike again to the same extent, he had enough connections to get the same estimate the Pentagon received right after they received it, and Wakanda had lost an estimated 18 aircraft today (And that was without any news of how many China might have gotten) - but it was like pulling teeth to get world leaders to listen, they were all screaming about retaliation, which Justin was perfectly fine with -  buy his weapons and retaliate - don''t open Pandora''s box of nuclear goodies.


    For God''s sake, Wakanda might be isolated, but even they can''t have missed world war two, if they didn''t have a defense against nuclear strikes, Justin would kiss fucking Tony Stark. And the problem with an unknown like Wakanda¡­ Was the shield the solution? Capable of holding back nuclear strikes? Or did they have a way of redirecting a nuclear missile? A way to detonate it early? A way to shoot it down?


    They didn''t know, which to any logical person - apparently only Justin - meant don''t fire nukes at them!


    Especially as they didn''t want to escalate only to find out Wakanda also has nukes¡­


    With a sigh he finished his conversation on the phone, he dropped the phone on the couch, letting out a short scream, just letting everything out there, before straightening his tie as he leaned forward, letting out a breath he''d probably been holding in for the last forty five minutes, "Put China in safe, for now¡­ And with that, put America on the safe list as well." China was furious, and refused to look weak, so Justin had been forced to do some very fast talking there, Ellis it turned out - had not managed to convince them of shit.


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    Really¡­ Having the president of the United States in your pocket and Justin still had to do all the work, Ellis how the fuck did you get elected? Oh, yeah, with my money¡­


    Bakshi murmured something into his phone, before putting it on mute, leaning over, "Pentagon is moving to Defcon 2, my source is informing me."


    Justin felt like he''d lost half his body weight in sweat as he sunk back into the couch, a relieved smile on his face, "Well, not ideal still, but no nukes. Can''t complain about no nukes!"


    Elena leaned out from behind her corner, only her head visible around the large comfortable luxury seats, a small smile on her face, "If you want some good news, sir, I''ve received an email from a representative of the African Union, addressed to you, it seems in light of recent circumstances, they signed the agreement. All of them."


    "Thank fuck!" Justin said with emphasis, not at all wanting to go back to Johannesburg and continue arguing. In fact, he wanted a full vacation from arguing right now. "Everyone take five, just¡­ Drink something, wrap your heads back around to normal, let''s just take five."


    Bakshi suddenly froze, while everyone else began moving to refresh themselves, his phone slowly lowering from his ear, Justin met his eyes, already dreading it, "Missile launch detected by the Pentagon¡­" He said numbly.


    Justin slowly sank his head into his hands, what a fucking shit show¡­  "Who? What fucking idiot did we miss?"


    He''d called every nuclear capable country and gotten assurances! He didn''t think any of them would¡­


    What the everliving Fu-


    £ª£ª£ª


    SHIELD helicarrier over the Atlantic,


    -ck is going on here!?


    Nick Fury watched the frenetic activity on the bridge as every alarm he hoped to never hear went blaring off, "Who?" He shouted, moving to the center of the bridge so he could look around at every screen, "Who fired that damn missile, and can we stop it?"


    "Triangulating now, sir."


    "Well triangulate faster, see if we can''t fire a good ol'' regular missile back at whatever motherfucker decided to try and kickstart world war 3!" Fury ordered, feeling tense as he stood and waited, SHIELD unable to do much more than wait. "Find me the trajectory and any assets we have to intercept in case it''s not going for Wakanda!"


    Wakanda''s strike was another black mark against them, putting aside the fact no one knew what their capabilities were - SHIELD had not been prepared, the world had not been prepared.


    SHIELD hadn''t lost a single base, something Fury was sure was going to turn things quite sour once the nations of the world took stock, and started looking at SHIELD for their continued intelligence failure.


    "Sir! I''ve got it! It''s¡­. Sir, it''s us!?" The radar tech stared at her screen in shock, Fury rushing over, one eye wide.


    What the everliving Fu-


    £ª£ª£ª


    Washington D.C, White House.


    -ck is going on here!?


    Alexander Pierce growled into the phone, outrage battling with bafflement. "What the hell do you mean we launched a nuke!?" He whisper-yelled.


    He waved a hand to his security detail, stepping inside an empty room, some office belonging to White House staff, his detail waiting outside and ensuring his privacy. "Tell me again, and this time in a way that I can understand¡­?" He bit out, "SHIELD fired a nuke? Or¡­ We did?"


    If a fellow HYDRA head had done this¡­ He was going to boil them alive. For starters.


    The flustered voice on the other hand quibbled for a moment, other voices in the background, panicked voices, "We do not know sir, it doesn''t appear to be them, or us, but it came from us, that''s clear."


    Alexander slammed a hand into the wall, leaning over with his phone pressed into his ear, "What part of that is clear? Did we or didn''t we!?"


    "I mean¡­ Sir¡­ The launch came from the Iliad¡­"


    Alexander Pierce scowled, "The Iliad does not carry ICBMs, it''s a SHIELD aircraft carrier!"  What the fuck is going on!?


    There''s a stutter on the line, the operator sounding as baffled as Alexander felt. "We know sir¡­ But that''s what it''s showing us as the starting point." It was said defensively, but Alexander knew these people didn''t get their positions without knowing their stuff. If they say the Iliad fired a nuke, then it happened.


    How¡­ Would be a very important thing to find out.


    "Get me the Iliad!" Alexander barked into the phone, he was meeting the Vice-president, he needed to know what happened before he was asked point blank if SHIELD had gone rogue.


    "We''re trying, there''s no response¡­"


    What the everliving Fuck!


    £ª£ª£ª


    Private jet, in airspace over Atlantic ocean.


    The jet was silent as they all waited for news. Elena and Bakshi silently continued their work as Justin and Domino just sat and waited, The bodyguard raking her hand through his hair as he leaned his head back, letting the soothing motion soothe his migraine.


    "Sir¡­ Got a report, preliminary, put into the classified eyes only net in the Pentagon, not everything is confirmed yet, do you want it?" Bakshi asked quietly, well put together again, as he sat across from Justin and Domino.


    Justin scowled, enjoying Domino''s ministrations, he waved a hand, not bothering to open his eyes, "Go ahead, let''s find out what the damage is."


    Bakshi cleared his throat, "Wakanda intercepted the nuclear missile well before it even entered their airspace, a kinetic projectile destroying it, fired from within Wakanda as far as we''ve been able to ascertain - we do not yet know if they needed to lower their shield to do so."


    Justin hummed in thought, "Well not as bad as it could be." He acknowledged, he opened one eye to stare at Bakshi, "So what''s the bad news?"


    "Well the nuclear missile did not detonate, so there is no fallout falling down onto African soil, so far. Also, seeing Wakandan capabilities for defending against nuclear strikes, the nations of the world has cooled down slightly, America has moved to Defcon 3 in response."


    "You see¡­" Justin said, closing his eyes again, just letting his body go lax, "When I say tell me the bad news, and you give me more good news, it means the bad news is going to really suck!" He finished with feeling.


    Bakshi sighed, "As always, you are right, sir." He acknowledged.


    "So, what fucked up?" Domino asked Bakshi, before leaning up against Justin, tapping his forehead, "This was a one time favor, I''m not your masseuse."


    Justin opened an eye in her direction, "Ten more minutes and I''ll get you a Bahamas vacation with Erik Stevens as your bodyguard. Clothing optional beaches." He tempted.


    Domino opened her mouth for a rebuttal, before striking a thinking pose, eventually letting her hand fall back to raking her fingers through his scalp, "You''ve got a deal, bossman!"


    Bakshi smiled at their byplay, the expression quickly falling as he continued reporting. "What went wrong¡­ It appears that the Iliad, a SHIELD aircraft carrier in the Atlantic Ocean, last reported somewhere off the north east coast of South America, fired the ICBM." Bakshi read of his tablet, tapping the screen, "What''s more, the Iliad is not supposed to have that capability."


    "Your old buddies tell you that?" Justin asked, trying to verify where the information came from, because what the fuck, SHIELD!?


    "Partly," Bakshi admitted, "They''re as baffled as us, it wasn''t them, and as far as they can tell, it wasn''t SHIELD either."


    Justin opened both eyes, giving him a skeptical look, "The SHIELD aircraft carrier fired a nuclear missile without them knowing about it?" He snorted, "Fury is so fired." He muttered to himself, not sure how he felt about that.


    Bakshi grimaced, "It gets worse, sir." He said simply, getting a long drawn out sigh from Justin.


    "Of course it does¡­ Hit me."


    "They''ve lost the Iliad."


    Justin sat up fully, losing Domino''s hand in the process, but more concerned with what he was hearing. "How do you lose an aircraft carrier!?" He demanded.


    Especially one firing nukes! Who would even put nuclear missile capabilities on an aircraft carrier anyway? It made no sense!?


    Bakshi looked as baffled as Justin, "I can''t really say, sir. But according to reports, shortly after firing a missile they shouldn''t be in possession of, or have the capability to fire, they disappeared completely off the grid, no satellite has been able to locate them, and according to my sources, everyone is looking."


    Justin took off his glasses, pinching the bridge of his nose, "So you''re telling me, that to go with the whole Wakandan issue, we have a rogue aircraft carrier capable of firing ICBMs, that can either turn invisible or something else horrible that we have absolutely no idea about whatsoever, just¡­ Going around the world, able to pop up and nuke someone at any time and no one knows who''s behind it?"


    "Essentially¡­ Yes, sir." Bakshi said with an uncomfortable look on his face.


    Justin sank back into the couch, "Just great¡­"


    Maybe he should have just been happy with his fortune and being second best, spent his life on models and beach vacations until the universe got decimated.


    Because the butterflies in this universe were getting preeettttyyy big¡­


    £ª£ª£ª


    Washington D.C, several hours later.


    If Justin thought he was going to get any rest, he was swiftly dissuaded on landing in D.C, as he was met by a military escort upon landing, and immediately brought to the White House. Who needs sleep anyway?


    The President was still not in residence, having been moved to a secure location while the Vice-President remained at the White House to instill some sense of normalcy.


    As normal as things could be when dealing with the complete destruction of one branch of government, and the gutting of military leadership that occured in halfway destroying the Pentagon.


    He was meeting neither though, marched as he was into the bowels of the White House, and brought through several checkpoints, eventually even having to divest himself of Domino, the security only allowing him onwards, no ifs and buts.


    Finally he was brought into a dark room which held nothing but a chair, several large screens, and Alexander Pierce, secret head of HYDRA, but mostly known as the Secretary of the World Security Council to those in the know. A former Secretary of Defense to those less informed.


    Technically speaking Justin should probably belong to the second category. At least he had Bakshi to use as a convenient excuse for any extra knowledge.


    "Mister Secretary." Justin said shortly, shaking the man''s hand, curious and apprehensive at what could be going on. He''d been fine leaving Domino behind, as it was the White House, but hadn''t expected a HYDRA head¡­


    "Mister Hammer." Pierce said charmingly, shaking his hand firmly but vigorously, "A pleasure to meet you, thank you for what you''re doing for the world, your innovative accomplishments will bring a much needed change to the world."


    "I do what I can, Mister Secretary, what can I do for the World Security Council today?" Justin asked, glancing at the screens, because what else could they be for?


    Pierce smirked, seemingly very pleased about something, which put Justin''s hackles up, "Ah, to be cliche, Mister Hammer, it''s more what the Security Council can do for and with you."


    Justin glanced at the sole chair in the middle of the room, and the screens, his eyebrows raised high, "Am I to take this to mean that I''m being invited to the World Security Council, just like that?" He asked incredulously. And with this set up, someone in the White House is always on the council¡­ Good to know¡­


    Pierce walked over to the chair, running his hand over the top of it, seemingly smug about something, "That is exactly it, normally there''s a whole process, but with the way the world is at the moment, your obvious expertise in many areas, and usefulness to the security of the world, it made you a shoe-in to some councilors."


    "From the way you''re speaking, Mister Secretary, did you advocate for me to get this position?" Justin asked wryly, studying the set up further, some sort of holo projector on the floor, likely to project whoever the council was meeting, if anyone, at any time, the screens would obviously be the rest of the council¡­


    Pierce chuckled with easy camaraderie, coming over and putting a hand on Justin''s shoulder, "Son, it was my absolute pleasure to argue for your inclusion." He gestured to the seat, "We do have something that needs to be dealt with at the moment, they''re waiting for your arrival."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, "Not very efficient to wait for me to deal with the chaos out there right now." He pointed out, somewhat sharply. World Security should not be by committee just for these kinds of reasons.


    Pierce walked over to the side, where Justin just noticed another floor holo projector was inserted into the floor, the HYDRA head coming to stand right on top of it, "This case isn''t an emergency issue, although it does need to be decided speedily, for clarity''s sake."


    "If you accept, take a seat, all the paperwork and being sworn in business - will be handled after the vote." Pierce said, gesturing to the chair again, his eyes expectant.


    Justin sighed, eying the chair as if it was a live snake, but in the end, it was better to have a seat and get first hand information, than to have someone else, less qualified, making decisions impacting him. He took the seat.


    A hum ran through the room, a new screen raising up from the floor in front of Justin, featuring live information from SHIELD, the Pentagon, CIA and a dozen other agencies on a live feed. He glanced up, seeing Pierce appearing as a hologram on the floor in front of him, even as he still stood not far away from him, Nick Fury also appearing from elsewhere, his hands behind his back as he looked up at Justin like he was on a screen above him.


    "All World Security Councilors have their image and voice scrambled, he does not know your identity, nor will he find out through this system." Pierce supplied quietly.


    Seconds later the other screens came alive, the screens not blurred to him, although he didn''t recognize any of the faces.


    The only woman spoke up immediately, "We are here today to determine whether to replace Nicholas J Fury as the Director of SHIELD due to his recent failures."


    Justin was taken aback, he''d joked about Fury getting fired, but he hadn''t really been serious. Although if he thought about it, it made a certain amount of sense. SHIELD had failed in the Wakandan situation, looking impotent to the world, then a SHIELD aircraft carrier fired a nuke, and disappeared, and SHIELD had no idea about any of it.


    A dignified older man with a receding hairline, spoke up next, "Director Fury, do you have any defense regarding recent failures? Or anything to say in defense of keeping your post?"


    Holo Fury looked up at the screen, his lips twisted in distaste,"My career speaks for itself, councilors, you''d be fools to bring in someone new to the job in light of recent circumstances."


    An Indian man frowned minutely, cutting off the American with the receding hairline, "I would not suggest such a cavalier attitude Director, it''s due to recent circumstances that you are in this situation."


    Justin tapped his fingers on his chair, thinking furiously, getting rid of Fury¡­ Would that cancel out the Avengers? Would a HYDRA plant take over? He didn''t like Fury much, he honestly seemed like an incompetent leader, and a paranoid man incapable of making the right decision due to worrying about things he shouldn''t even care about.


    The world was changing rapidly, he couldn''t afford SHIELD becoming a total unknown too, he looked over the chair, finding the mechanism for turning on his own microphone, cutting off one of the others in the middle of another tongue lashing. "In my opinion, this is the last thing we should be focusing on."


    Pierce, who''d been standing silent, smiled at him, before speaking up himself, his holo moving to stand next to Fury, "Councilors, I agree with our newest member, you don''t change your horse in the middle of the race."


    Justin spoke up again, before Pierce could monopolize their attention and try and manage the discussion in a different direction than Justin wanted, "It''s a normal reaction to look for a scapegoat during tough times, but it is also, very clearly the wrong reaction this time."


    "And what makes you say that, councilor?" The receding hairline guy, who''s name he really needed to figure out, said snidely."


    "It is my understanding that no one knew about Wakanda, so to lay that at the feet of Director Fury is both unfair and pointless." Justin said, eyes on the impassive holo of Fury, silently listening to people debating his future. "And while no one knowing about the Iliad is under the aegis of SHIELD¡­" Justin''s voice turned sharper as he made his point, "The problem there is that the Iliad was under the aegis of SHIELD¡­"


    "I fail to see your point, councilor." The Indian said dryly, "I hope you have one¡­"


    "An aircraft carrier has disappeared, unless you think Fury did that? To release him from his duties, and choose anyone else, is folly. This incident made Fury out to be incompetent, he is unlikely to be behind it. But someone hid all of this from SHIELD, from the World Security Council¡­ And they''ve done so successfully, likely expecting his dismissal, how sure are you that your replacement candidate is not the one behind all of this?"


    Justin felt a certain amount of pleasure at calling Fury incompetent to his face, in a manner of speaking, and him just having to stand there and take it.


    Pierce cleared his throat, "The Iliad being anything but an inside job seems unlikely." He added, agreeing with Justin, without coming right out and saying it. Although he and Fury were supposed to be somewhat close, the council likely expected his support for the Director.


    Justin''s support was out of the blue, he glanced at the Secretary, he''d been inducted very speedily, was Pierce putting him through to keep Fury in his post?


    "The argument is sound. There are severe risks in counting on a new candidate." The female councilor mused out loud.


    Justin was glad for his glasses and their record function, he''d be able to look up these people and get names for next time. Score one for proprietary tech no one knows he has.


    "You can''t be serious, he''s led us into the biggest intelligence failure of the century, twice!" Receding hairline spluttered.


    "God himself would have failed that job in the last few weeks." Justin interjected, somewhat amusedly, because he was entirely responsible for most of it. "Fury has kept SHIELD together at the very least, and not made any stupid knee jerk moves to worsen the situation, give him time to react to the chaos, and don''t invite more by changing leaders."


    One by one the other councilors voted, Fury would keep his job, only one councilor voting against him. Fury himself not saying as much as a thank you as he disappeared, going back to work, no doubt.


    The screens all flickered off, one by one, leaving Justin with just Pierce, who clapped his hands together and rubbed them, a smarmy smirk on his face, "Well now, that was an interesting first meeting. Well done."


    Justin just wanted to go to bed. At least the meeting has been blessedly quick, then again, they all had important things to do right now.


    Fucking hell¡­ Fury owed him his job.


    What was his life even anymore?


    £ª£ª£ª


    At the hotel, hours of paperwork later, Washington D.C.


    Justin walked into the penthouse suit, just feeling his bed calling for him, sweet sweet sleep, oblivion, where no one tried to nuke each other. Where he didn''t need to figure out how to clear the Suez canal, just simple sleep.


    Justin noticed Domino and Elena flipping through folders sitting at the coffee table, he stretched, letting out a yawn, he hadn''t gotten much sleep with everything going on and he wanted to make it clear to everyone that there was no point in doing anymore work. He sauntered over to the two women, intending to get them to take a break too.


    "What are you working on?" He asked, barely suppressing another yawn.


    Domino flipped open a file, showcasing Natasha Romanoff, "Threat assessments, as your PA, she needs to know what people are for sure gunning for you, that way if she sees something out of place she has all the information to connect the dots if it''s one of them." Domino explained, looking disgustingly fresh and energetic, how did that work? Justin was the one with regeneration!


    Elean looked uncomfortable staring down at the picture of the Black Widow, so Justin laid a comforting hand on her shoulder. She must be more scared then I thought, she''s super tense, he noticed. Of course, for most normal people, super assassin''s were pretty scary.


    For Justin, it was becoming Tuesday.


    "Don''t worry Elena, no Black Widow is ever going to come within a hundred feet of me ever again, I promise." Justin reassured his personal assistant, not wanting her to start worrying about Black Widows of all things.


    Domino snorted, "And if they do, he''ll probably just sleep with them, like he did with this one." She joked, holding out Natasha''s folder, earning a start out of Elena.


    Justin gave her an affronted look, one hand still on Elena''s shoulder, "Hey¡­ I do not sleep with every Black Widow I meet!" He argued. "Elena? You believe me right?"


    Elena slipped out from under his hand, excusing herself, claiming a need for coffee if she was to continue working. Avoiding the question, he supposed it wasn''t fair to put her on the spot anyway, she was still fairly new.


    Justin frowned though, looking at her walking away, it had almost looked like she was holding back laughter, that couldn''t be right, probably the sleep deprivation talking. "Domino¡­ Now you have her thinking I''m some kind of deviant." He chided.


    "Yes. Me. It''s all me." Domino said dryly, flipping through folders.


    When Elena returned she was more composed, and they all continued working, Justin not able to convince himself to go rest while his employees were putting in the extra hours.


    £ª£ª£ª


    The next day.


    With his New York offices thoroughly destroyed, he found an empty small office building to rent in Washington, well, Elena found it for him, but he paid for it.


    It wasn''t much, but he needed something other than the hotel to meet people in, and he wasn''t quite ready to leave Washington with everything going on.


    Added to the list of future purchases was a proper Washington office. He mostly had research labs and testing sites for the military in the vicinity of Washington.


    Currently he was meeting with Phantazia and Domino, going over their concerns and talking about recruitment.


    "If you really have Xavier onboard, it opens you up to recruit some good people, me and Domino are running pretty thin on the ground here." Eileen said primly, "Xavier''s approval means a lot in certain circles, even amongst mercenaries, it means you''re trusted."


    Justin huffed, looking annoyed, "We don''t technically have an agreement yet, we were interrupted." He pointed out.


    Although he felt it likely, he''d already sent the order to stop mutant testing for Extremis for now, doing his part. He''d never be palatable for Xavier, likely. But he just needed to be good enough, as long as he looked after mutants and ensured equality, which was just a no brainer - he''d have Xavier at minimum neutral.


    And it really was a no brainer. With aliens and shit like Dormammu, Earth did not need a race war to go with everything else. Mutants would be very useful too, for planetary defense and his company both.


    Maybe he could get one of them on his HAMMER team?


    Vanko was already working overtime on something for next time he''d meet the wheelchair bound hero. Who probably held as much interest if not more than Justin - in a mutant compatible extremis.


    "I wouldn''t mind some time off, so new hires sound good, I have a Bahamas vacation to look forward to." Domino said cheekily, winking at Justin.


    Justin smirked, sighing dramatically, "You could have always gone with me¡­" He suggested, waggling his eyebrows.


    Domino laughed even as Eileen rolled her eyes, "Nah, you''re seven out of ten remember." She teased, putting both hands together and then letting them get far, far away from each other, her grin going saucy. "Stevens is prime meat, 10 out of 10!"


    "God, the two of you are the worst." Eileen muttered as Justin and Domino both laughed.


    "Need to find her a boyfriend." Domino said conspiratorially to Justin.


    Justin practically giggled at Eileen''s disgusted look, "Or a girlfriend?" He suggested.


    "I hope you die the first day I go on vacation." Eileen said in annoyance. Before placing a folder in front of them. "Do work. Pick someone." She demanded.


    Fun time was over.


    Work, work, work.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Several days later..


    Elena knocked on the door to his office softly, sticking her head through the open space, "Sir, I know you asked not to be disturbed, but there is someone here that claims to be the liaison between the United States military and Hammer industries."


    Justin huffed in irritation, glancing up at Elena, reluctantly closing his laptop to concentrate on this new situation, he couldn''t ignore this. "How nice of them to let me know only when at my door." He drawled, uncaring if the military stooge on the other side could hear it, "Fine, let him in, hold my calls until we''re done, unless it''s of world ending importance."


    Which sadly was an actual possibility for the next decade at least, more so now then it was before.


    Elena nodded quickly, "Yes, sir." And disappeared from view, Justin could hear her voice, much more chilled, as she dressed down whoever was on the other side for their unscheduled appearance, before allowing them through with a warning to be on their best behavior.


    She was a good hire¡­ Justin thought, a tiny smirk on his face, he glanced at Domino, sitting on a couch in the office, cleaning her guns, I''ll have to reward her for taking the initiative to hire her.


    The smirk disappeared off his face as he became lost for words when his military attache stepped inside.


    Colonel James ''Rhodey'' Rhodes stepped through into his office in full dress uniform, looking exhausted - carrying a certain tension to him that showcased he wasn''t thrilled to be there.


    Justin wasn''t thrilled either. Why the fuck aren''t you in Afghanistan!?


    Domino, picking up on Justin''s heightened emotional state, rose up, one of her guns held lightly in her hand, "Boss?" She queried, eyeing Rhodes suspiciously.


    "Colonel Rhodes¡­ What an unexpected surprise¡­" Justin managed to get out, sounding slightly choked despite attempting to play it cool, he waved Domino down as he did, Rhodes eyeing their interaction with some wariness.


    A soldier recognizing his own ilk, and cataloging the threat.


    Colonel Rhodes, future war machine, best friend and more importantly savior of Tony Stark¡­ Why the fuck is he here!? Justin wanted to yell out. But he already had a pretty good idea¡­ God dammit! Even as Wakanda gave to Justin with one hand - they took from him with the other.


    Fucking prideful stubborn suicidal bastards!


    Domino sat back down, but she was much more attentive now, and her gun didn''t leave her hand, even if she made sure to point it away from Rhodes at the moment.


    "This wasn''t my idea either." Rhodes stated bluntly, eyeing Justin with some rancor barely hidden under the professionalism. "Apparently my ''experience'' in liaising with a similar company made me the ideal candidate."


    He managed to not sound sarcastic and still perfectly portray sarcasm at the same time - Justin figured he''d learned that after spending too much time talking to military brass.


    Justin needed to remember that for all that he was a dumb soldier - of all things to do with his life - this was a man that could keep up with Tony Stark to a certain extent. He was far from unintelligent.


    "But¡­ They''d only do that if¡­" Justin wanted to smash his head on the desk as he clued in, This was just great¡­ "They''ve given up on Stark, haven''t they?" He said in a pained tone of voice, something which seemed to catch Colonel Rhodes off guard.


    They''d only switch Rhodes away from Stark Industries if they believed it wasn''t worth searching for Stark anymore. And likely someone up top had the genius idea - that if he got along with one eccentric billionaire, why not send him to the next one - completely disregarding the issues with that.


    Top politicians or top military personnel, Justin had a hard time deciding which ones were more delusional in their worldview.


    "Yes¡­" Rhodes said carefully, looking slightly constipated as he eyed Justin oddly, "My superiors have decided that in light of current circumstances, the effort and cost in searching empty desert was not in the best interest of the United States armed forces." Rhodes smiled mirthlessly, "I had the choice between a discharge and coming here after I¡­ Vigorously protested."


    Justin wanted to shake the man, and shout in his face, You should have taken the damn discharge you disloyal piece of shit! We need Tony Stark alive!


    In case everything else failed, his plans failed, Earth''s defense failed. Tony Stark still needed to sacrifice himself against Thanos, so Justin could go on with life.


    Rhodes straightened up, going into a full military stance as he looked Justin straight in the eyes, "I''m not here to be your liaison, Hammer." He said harshly, "I''m here to ask you to fund me going back and continuing the search for Tony, or I''ll go do it by myself, if necessary."


    He has some balls on him¡­ Justin thought, shaking his head in admiration of the audacity. I guess I jumped the gun on declaring him disloyal, should have figured even giving up his career was worth it for his best friend - if push came to shove¡­


    What to do, what to do? He couldn''t risk Tony dying in the desert without removing a very valuable piece for humanity from the board - but things had already changed, what guarantee was there that Rhodes would arrive in the same spot, at the same time?


    None. It was a changed world.


    Yet¡­ He had to at least try.


    Domino''s head was tilted as she gave the Colonel a curious look, "Huh, I would have pegged you for one of those perfect tin soldiers that would never betray their oath." She admitted.


    Rhodes, glanced her way, showing his teeth in a rictus of a smile, his exhaustion shining through, "They betrayed their oath, I am not betraying mine, I''m keeping it, never give up, never leave someone behind!" He snapped out, hurt and anger bleeding through his reply, as Rhodes turned back to Justin. Giving him a challenging look, "You''re rivals, I get that, god knows Tony always bitched enough about you, but he''ll never see your new innovations if he never makes it out of Afghanistan." Rhodes attempted to cajole him, unaware Justin had already made his decision.


    He must think Justin was a simpleton, even after all this time¡­ Well¡­ It suited his goals here for now. Justin thought. One last thing before then though¡­


    "A lot of people think I''m behind his disappearance¡­" Justin said, raising a challenging eyebrow to the Colonel, purposefully looking smug, wanting to see his reaction.


    Rhodes growled lowly in his throat, his gaze intense as he stared straight at Justin. "I''ve heard that theory too¡­" He said seriously, letting the silence build as he stared at Justin, "I don''t think I''ve read you wrong though, you want to beat Tony, show him how much better you are, you can''t do that if he''s dead. No, this wasn''t you." His lips thinned as he grimaced, "Doubt it was Wakanda either." The palpable disgust in his voice when he spoke of Wakanda surprised Justin.


    "If¡­ I do this¡­" Justin began slowly, taking note of how on edge the good colonel looked, there was an advantage to gain there¡­ "You''ll owe me a favor. One time, no questions asked, coming to my aid, doing as I ask." Justin intended to fund his rescue operation either way, he wanted Tony to make it, but why not benefit on the side as well? "You''ll also be contractually obligated to never speak badly about Hammer industries or its tech, or me personally, in public again." He tacked on, because why not?


    Such a small thing to add on, but Tony''s best friend keeping politely quiet everytime in the future that Tony would rant about his stuff in public? Pure gold. Probably wouldn''t happen often, but Justin would enjoy the fact that his honor would force him to comply.


    And it would cheese Tony off something fierce that his ''Rhodey'' was forced into the circumstances in the first place.


    Rhodes looked like he''d tasted something foul, but a lot of the tension in his frame seemed to ease - as he realized he would be getting that assistance after all, "As long as that favor does not go against the interest of the United States government, is for something illegal, or against Tony and his company." He stated firmly.


    Justin coughed lightly, fixing his glasses in place with one hand as he gave the Colonel a dry look, "Considering anything I do is against the best interests of Stark industries or Stark, how about we change that to not asking you to work directly against his company or him personally." He suggested, not willing to let the Colonel skate by on his commitments through technicalities.


    Besides, it would be delicious to call on the War Machine and watch Rhodes fly away from Tony to go do Justin''s bidding. Also, I won''t have to pay him 100 million for finding Stark and ''rescuing'' him, since I''m basically paying for him to do it. Good for PR for me as well. He thought.


    He almost wanted to blow the favor by doing a promo with War Machine for the Superbowl, Tony Stark''s best friend shilling Hammer products. But it would be a waste of something so delicious.


    This could work out well for him. As long as Rhodes still found Tony¡­ He might need to invest in some tech to look more closely at Afghanistan.


    Rhodes stepped forward, putting his hand out to shake on it, "You''ve got a deal, Hammer." He said gruffly. If he was grateful, he sure hid it well under his absolute distaste to be striking a deal with Justin to begin with. Although maybe it was hard to tell because of the stink of desperation and exhaustion.


    Justin smiled, clasping his hands over Rhodes, "I''m sure this is the start of a beautiful friendship, Colonel." He said brightly. His smile widening at the skeptical look he received from Tony Stark''s best friend.


    Oh, I''m sure I can make something out of this¡­


    Just don''t fuck up saving Tony, you second rate hero¡­


    Although¡­ War Machine being discharged¡­ Gonna change things up¡­


    ¡­ Now how to use that¡­


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 10: Council of Dicks.

    £ª£ª£ª


    Wakanda,


    T''Challa grunted as he walked straight into someone, knocking them over.


    "Nakia¡­? What are you doing here?" He asked suspiciously, before blinking, feeling sheepish, offering her his hand, "Ah, sorry, I wasn''t watching where I was going!"


    There really weren''t many people near this hangar, he''d made sure. Being the prince had its privileges, even if he had to lie. So Nakia being here of all places¡­


    Nakia grumbled softly, but took his hand, the look in her eyes telling T''Challa he''d hear about this again at some point. He smiled wryly to himself, it didn''t matter what he did after all


    He''d always hear about it again at some point, usually in a situation where he could be embarrassed in front of his family.


    "I was investigating, of course." She said, a tiny smirk on her face that made T''Challa look away with a light cough, feeling heat rushing to his face. Averting his gaze unfortunately brought his sight to Okoye, his current guard, who was smirking in a telling way at him.


    It''s not like that, Okoye, T''Challa tried to tell her with his eyes, but her smirk just widened.


    The Dora were too impertinent really. Why did he even allow them around, he thought almost sulkily. He''d hear about this later too, the Dora worse gossips than the old ladies at the market.


    Bast! They were all probably retired Dora Milaje now that he thought about it.


    "T''Challa¡­ Why were you coming here?" Nakia asked sweetly, "Perhaps you have something you''d like to tell me, hmm?"


    "Do I have a choice?" He replied evasively, trying to not meet her eyes.


    Nakia laid a hand against his cheek, tilting his head slightly, forcing him to meet her eyes, her own somehow soft, even through the harshness he saw, something prevalent in so many of their citizens in the last few weeks. "T''Challa, you know I trust you. You can talk to me."


    She smirked playfully, "Or I''ll just draw my own conclusions anyway." She said, tongue in cheek.


    T''Challa sighed, although a small smile played on his lips, "You''ve already seen it, haven''t you?"


    What was the point of posting guards? He thought in fond exasperation.


    "Mhm, seen, but still wondering about the how and why?"


    T''Challa took her hand and led her forward, back the way she''d come, soon enough coming up on the hangar, giving Nakia a look upon seeing the two unconscious guards slumped against the wall.


    Nakia shrugged lightly, "They weren''t very good guards." A mischievous smile popped upon her face, "Some flirting, a flash of skin, and I got in close enough to take them down, no problem."


    T''Challa suddenly found that he had no issue with the two men being knocked unconscious, giving them an irritated look.


    "This is why the Dora should be guarding this project, not men." Okoye helpfully added. A disgusted curl to her lips as she looked down at the failed guards with a look of derision.


    Nakia gave Okoye a playfully sultry look, "I''m sure I could draw a kiss or two out of your people, Okoye." She teased, lips quirked.


    T''Challa rubbed his face, "Please stop that, both of you." I do not need that kind of mental image¡­ Right now.


    Nakia made an amused noise from the back of her throat, crossing her arms under her breasts. "Is the great prince getting flustered?" She asked with a raised eyebrow, eyes glittering with mirth.


    "Nakia¡­"


    "T''Challa." She replied with amusement.


    "You wanted to know what it is I have the scientists and engineers working on?" T''Challa changed the subject with grace.


    From the quiet giggle he got before Nakia looked forward into the hangar, some seriousness returning to her visage, he knew his quick change of the subject wouldn''t be the end of it.


    Teasing him seemed to be one of Nakia''s greatest skills¡­


    "Simply put, I''m working on a future." T''Challa said seriously, staring ahead, conflicted feelings warring inside him.


    With this, he was technically diverting resources from the war, was technically moving against decrees from his father, although it was more the council then his father at this point.


    For Shuri¡­ I must succeed.


    For any of Wakanda to survive¡­


    £ª£ª£ª


    Mogadishu, Somalia,


    "As far as shitholes go, this isn''t too bad." Brock said, as their support team moved supplies into the warehouse at the edge of the city that they''d been instructed to hunker down in.


    At least it had some industrial grade air conditioning to help with the fact Somalia was sweltering hot.


    Frank grunted, a large crate in his arms as he muscled his way past Brock, "It''d be less of a shithole if you''d get off your ass to help, princess."


    Brock grinned, pushing Frank''s shoulder, which almost had the other man lose control of the crate, his dark look promising bruises for their next spar.


    "We have grunts for that work now, I''m perfectly fine being the princess in this scenario." Brock said, uncaring of Frank''s attitude. "We need to stay nice and relaxed in case we get called in."


    Frank dumped the crate on the floor just inside the warehouse, "The boss doesn''t want to reveal us yet, it would take something big to call us in."


    Brock knew Frank was just as displeased as he was that they were still kept under wraps, they wanted to let loose, really let their upgraded armors go full tilt to find out their full capabilities.


    "Wakanda will definitely do something big again, at some point. They won''t just sit pretty and die." Brock said with absolute certainty. He didn''t know them, he didn''t care to know them. But warriors never just accepted impending defeat with grace. They''d strike out.


    "There''s worse debuts than slapping down Wakanda, considering all they''ve done." Frank said darkly, his countenance grim. The man would always be army, Brock took things easier, took things less personally.


    Brock stretched, not too interested in the whole set up work, that''s why Hammer had given them their own team of grunts after all. To do all the drudge work and guard duty and all that boring stuff Brock didn''t have to do anymore.


    "Pretty sure I saw a brothel a couple streets down, you want in Frankie?" Having a ton of money now was useless if he wasn''t enjoying it after all. Unlike Frank who probably put it into a pension fund or something.


    Hah, like either of them would ever live long enough to get to collect. Brock thought, armors or not, a soldier''s life carried risks. Regeneration was a big boost - but it just meant enemies would be tougher and try harder to kill them.


    "I''m married." Frank said flatly, giving him a look of disgust.


    Brock chuckled, slapping the other man on the back, "It''s not cheating if it''s a whore."


    ".... Get the fuck out of my face."


    Brock rolled his eyes, stepping away with his hands held up, a smirk on his face, "So sensitive, alright you do all the work, get this place nice and put together for me for when I return from actually having fun." He mocked.


    Frank headed deeper into the warehouse without a word, while Brock stepped outside with a pep in his step.


    Soon he''d be able to really let loose. Surely Wakanda or some other idiot would disrupt Hammer''s Africa plan?


    People in Mogadishu stepped out of his way as he walked down the street, his bloodthirsty grin enough to deter even the most hardened criminal.


    He couldn''t wait.


    Hammer better let them loose soon¡­ Because Brock wouldn''t wait much longer for his debut.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Bern, Switzerland.


    Justin ignored the gawking of the people around him, all of them fabulously wealthy by common standards, you had to be to even get this far into the Universal Bank in Bern, Switzerland. However, compared to him, and his projected worth just over the next year, let alone decade - they were practically paupers, and therefore hardly even worth his notice.


    Especially with recent events - their petty rivalries and lackluster companies hardly merited notice in comparison.


    The last 2 weeks had been¡­ Stressful. The world had cooled down slightly, as everyone suspiciously eyed each other, looking for whoever had been behind the attempted nuclear strike on Wakanda.


    Without success. Considering Justin now sat on the World Security Council, he had access to a lot of privileged information, which left him with only three, in his mind, possible options.


    Either the Iliad could suddenly now become invisible, which included invisibility to any detection system the world had.


    Secondly, it had some sort of dimension shifting capabilities and simply wasn''t here, until it was. Which¡­ He really hoped wasn''t the case. Because that just stank of alien interference.


    Or thirdly, it was now a submersible, again, somehow. And good luck searching the whole ocean.


    Justin had already been contracted by the Defense Department to devise a way to find them, because apparently everyone thought he shit out miracles now. Success had its own consequences and if he wanted to keep up the momentum, he needed to keep delivering until his reputation was so solidified that a failure or two wouldn''t matter.


    Of course the rest of the council suspected Magneto, because who else could manage to hide a big metal boat. And it was much easier to suspect the S class threat than some nebulous, possibly alien, interference.


    Justin doubted he had anything to do with it. It just wasn''t flashy enough. Magneto, if he''d hijacked the Iliad, would have dropped it on the White House lawn while monologuing, not playing hide and seek.


    He''d also have succeeded if he was trying to nuke someone. Nuclear war wasn''t good for Magneto, no matter what some idiot councilors thought. It''s not like mutants would escape the effects, except for some outliers that would happen to have some sort of radiation immunity or something.


    At least so far, these past two weeks hadn''t led to any more missiles blasting off. From anyone.


    No one had yet gone back to that hot red button, Justin working frantically behind the scenes to ensure it. He needed Africa. And he wouldn''t put it past Wakanda to somehow make the entire continent an irradiated hellhole out of pure spite - if people fired more nukes at them.


    There hadn''t been any more strikes from Wakanda as well, either they''d destroyed enough of Wakanda''s Air Force and special forces, to force them into turtle mode - or they didn''t want to risk one of their ships being taken. One of the only ways they could infiltrate the nation with their shield up.


    And if they knew that. Wakanda definitely knew that.


    Shortly after Justin had sat down for his first World Security Council meeting, the African Union, buyoed by support from everyone. Advanced on Wakanda with whatever forces they could get close. Buyoed by a mercenary company or three.


    Klaue had happily arranged for several mercenary companies to be available to serve at the pleasure of the African Union.


    Not a real invasion or anything of the sort, they didn''t have the capability to really work that quickly, what they did have was tons of artillery, dumped cheaply on them over the years - from primarily the US and Russia, as they divested themselves of old stock.


    The force field protecting Wakanda''s capital was no secret anymore, not with artillery pounding it day and night, twenty four/seven. The African forces were not yet heavy enough to do much more than guard their artillery, as it kept up the fire, more shells delivered everyday from the leading military nations of the world to ensure the fire never let up.


    Justin had read the reports, everyday single soldiers snuck out from Wakanda, decimating a few artillery groups completely on their lonesome.


    Ghosts in the night, moving faster than should be humanly possible, and able to wreck artillery pieces by hand.


    And every day, grim faced African soldiers, knowing they''d likely die before the leading nations would arrive to take over - brought more artillery forward, retook their positions, and kept firing, waiting for the super soldiers to come kill them.


    Because apparently Wakanda had more than one now, because of course they did. Justin shook his head, marching through a luxurious marble hallway, portraits of some of the richest and most influential business tycoons in history on the walls. He made a face as he spied a portrait of Howard Stark on the wall, at least Tony hadn''t made it yet. And likely never would once his heroic bent became public¡­


    His thoughts returned to Wakanda and how they''d managed to light even more of a fire under the world''s superpowers, all of them marshaling as much as they could, even via proxy in some cases - like China.


    Losing a fleet hadn''t made the superpower give up, it had simply changed the way they projected their power in the region, Wakanda''s neighbors becoming inundated in Chinese strings, as support, slowly trickled in.


    Like the Vibranium hadn''t been enough, now the world had the scent of a possible mass produced super soldier program. They''d never stop until Wakanda was owned, lock stock and barrel. Everyday soldiers and equipment were flowing through Spain into Africa, NATO moving quickly to reinforce the haphazard AU response force.


    USAFRICOM only had about 5000 soldiers in North east Africa, but as their base kept being reinforced, soldiers trickled down towards Wakanda, supporting the AU with expert advice, and scouting places for forward bases for when the American army would arrive.


    Possibly, the constant artillery fire was keeping the Wakandan ships behind their shields, or possibly they chose not to use them for a second strike after all. Justin didn''t know, neither was it his concern right now. For the past two weeks, they seemed at least manageable, and besides¡­


    Erik Stevens had passed all tests after Project Killmonger concluded with a tentative success, and was already on his way to Wakanda. After he''d had a quick one week vacation with Domino, to allow the woman to relax.


    He''d either succeed at his task, or die without much loss for Justin. Other than Domino whining over losing her boytoy.


    At least Justin had given him something to come home to, he had a feeling Domino was a wild one.


    The major stress over the last two weeks hadn''t been Wakanda. Not for Justin. It had partly been in having to deal with Alexander Pierce trying to butter him up, while obviously attempting to manipulate the World Security Council at the same time.


    How the hell Fury hadn''t suspected the man he didn''t know, he practically exuded a - you can trust me, I''m a good guy - aura. That should have made Fury suspicious as hell! The scariest fuckers in politics were the ones that appeared honest and believable, because no one in politics were honest.


    Justin did not want anything to do with HYDRA, but neither did he want to kick things off too early, it made the man endlessly frustrating to deal with. He couldn''t kill him, couldn''t tell him to fuck off, and couldn''t just agree with him either, because the last thing he wanted was the invitation to become a HYDRA head to add to everything else.


    He was pulled out of his thoughts as they exited the lavish elevator, now far below Bern, the area ahead of them bristling with both automated turrets and heavily armed guards. To Justin''s amusement they already carried his shield batons and energy weapons. He hoped his people had charged them extra. They could afford it.


    They arrived at an antechamber with enough splendor to make a French monarch blush - the Amber room¡­ Looted from Russia by the Nazis, never to be found again after the war. And it was used as an antechamber for the Universal Bank''s most secret conference room, well, one mystery solved.


    Justin shook his head at the waste, eyes taking in the beautiful amber panels, with their golden leaf decorations and shining mirrors. Idly he entertained the thought of stealing it for his own mansion, but what was the point? He hadn''t actually stepped a foot in it for the past two years, always traveling.


    And this room, once called the eighth wonder of the world¡­ Was used as a waiting room for the bodyguards of the top one percent of the richest one percenters. Or the ones with the most power and the will to use it, anyway.


    Someone like Tony Stark could never fit in here.


    Justin gave Domino and Phantazia a serious look, before he continued on through the gilded doors, several of the bodyguards already lounging in the amber room were people he recognized, which said something about the firepower in that room alone. Albeit he only knew them from Domino and Phantazia''s dossiers.


    Elektra sitting there¡­ The Kingpin must be in attendance then - good, Fisk owed Justin 50 bucks from way back when he''d been less. Also, Phantazia had seen Bullseye in the attack on him at this headquarters, so either the guy was moonlighting for Roxxon or Oscorp¡­ Or Fisk had tried to kill him too¡­


    Justin was kind of offended that the Kingpin had thought Bullseye alone would have been enough. Perhaps he''d have the opportunity to rub it in his face today.


    As he strolled on through the ostentatious hallway leading to the secure bunker deep under the Universal Bank, his thoughts strayed to the other part of his great mountain of stress these past weeks.


    Fucking Hank fucking Pym.


    He''d earned both curses added to his name.


    Justin had hoped that going through Hope - would give him an edge. Even if unfortunately he hadn''t even had time for a dinner with her yet, to reconnect and work the slow route, circumstances had forced his hand, he hadn''t wanted to deal with Hank until closer to the Ant-Man movie events.


    Now that was shot to hell.


    Hope had been tentatively onboard with his plants to reopen the Suez, seeing not only the good for the world, but the absolute windfall for Pym technologies in such an endeavor, especially partnered with Hammer industries who right now held the public''s adoration.


    As soon as they brought Hank into the picture, it all crashed down. The cantankerous old fossil flat out refused to use his particles in such a showy way. Declaring it too dangerous, too likely to risk retaliation, thievery, or outright assassinations.


    Which¡­ He wasn''t wrong. But like Justin had done, there were things one could do to mitigate the risks. And more people wanted him dead than anyone else on the planet right now. Except maybe T''Chaka, that man was universally being lumped in with the likes of Hitler and Stalin in western media right now.


    For two weeks they''d been negotiating, trying to find a way forward. The nations of the world were leaning hard on Justin now, China reminding him daily of his promise to fix the Suez canal. Pressure was building, you could not tell the president of China to chill.


    He''d known Hank would be an issue. But he hadn''t expected this kind of pure rank - fuck the world - attitude. The man had been a hero once for fuck''s sake.


    He really didn''t want to be forced to lean on Magneto for this.


    He had one last card to play. Janet. But he really didn''t want to add more of them to the picture - when the end goal was supposed to be him gaining at least some control over Pym technologies, Hope his eventual subordinate or at least collaborator.


    Finally he entered the conference room, for all the previous glitter, it was a simple room, no different than a thousand other conference rooms, with a simple, heavy, wooden round table in the middle, the chairs all occupied but one, Justin''s seat.


    He hadn''t even known about this place until his invitation, which irked him. Wasn''t he rich and influential enough before? Hadn''t he held enough power?


    Apparently not.


    "Fashionably late, are we, Hammer? For your first meeting as well, tch!" Tiberius Stone said acidicly, the good looking media mogul was a contemporary of Tony Stark, (having gone to school with him) His perfectly coiffed dark hair and tanned skin did nothing to hide his greedy, piercingly blue eyes. He leant forward and looked Justin over with a slimy leer, "I could teach you manners at my feet, I promise I''ll be gentle¡­ At first."


    Justin didn''t even bother replying, glancing over at him, unimpressed. Frankly, he was attractive enough that Justin might have taken him up on the offer, but his personality was rotten. Also he had once been close to Tony Stark, that said enough for Justin to not want anything to do with the man.


    His international media empire was useful, and although he wasn''t as rich as most here, his soft power was indeed worthy of inclusion, but Justin could just buy ads and anchors of his to get his point out, there would be no need to suck up, or suck off, Tiberius Stone for it. Tiberius knew where his bread was buttered, he wouldn''t move against Justin for such a tiny thing as personal slight.


    "I''m not a man well used to waiting" Wilson Fisk rumbled, tapping his thick fingers on the wooden table, his signature white suit on, the large man towering over everyone else at the table.


    Fisk industries was a fortune 500 company, not to Hammer''s level, but his other activities added up, and had apparently bought him a seat at this table. Justin sat down smoothly, on the only open seat, opposite of the Kingpin of New York. "Perhaps if all of you had bothered to invite me before the recent¡­ Excitement¡­ I would have had time to arrive promptly." Justin said, a cold sneer on his face. None here were really his allies after all, "As it was, I was busy ensuring we don''t all die in a nuclear holocaust." He paused briefly, lifting an eyebrow, giving the table a long sarcastic look, "You''re all welcome¡­"


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    The lack of appreciation of his wit around the table, showed that the richer one got, the less fun one became, except Justin himself, of course.


    "No need to be so confrontational everyone, we''re all honest to god enemies here." Sebastian Shaw said good naturedly from where he sat next to Justin. Even while wearing a dark pinstripe suit that likely cost a fortune, he had the look of a boxer, his square jaw and muscled torso looking ill fitting in such a suit.


    His eyes were those of a shark though, beady and filled with barely hidden blood lust - someone well used to savaging his prey, whether business or personal.


    Justin didn''t have many dealings with Shaw industries - albeit he did do some business, he always needed steel after all. He knew Shaw had diversified his company and spread globally, not a simple steel magnate any longer since at least a decade - a man that had deserved his seat at the table. Justin gave him a slight nod, acknowledging his attempt at keeping them on track. For whatever this was.


    "Hammer has made waves, sure, but I''m more interested in the first woman to ever make it to this table¡­" Dario Agger, Roxxon''s CEO drawled lazily, drawing every eye to where Emma Frost, newly crowned CEO of Frost international sat, calm as can be, she could almost be mistaken for a barbie doll, not a hair out of place, and her expression entirely motionless and giving no clues to how she felt about being singled out.


    "Ah, yes, poor Winston, he died at the UN bombing didn''t he?" Shaw said, amusement practically wafting off him even as he gave Emma a predatory grin.


    Justin raised an eyebrow, looking at Emma speculatively, there''s a story there¡­ He''d heard Winston Frost had died, but he''d been too busy to look into it, "What on earth was the CEO of Frost international doing at the UN, not I think, a place Winston held dear?" He asked, already having a good idea, but unable to help himself from needling a business rival.


    Emma smiled sardonically, meeting Justin''s eyes, he idly noted she was just as attractive as her photo, even with her eyes looking chillier than the arctic."He was found amongst the rubble, so he must have had a meeting there, we don''t know more than that unfortunately. My father was a very private man, and he didn''t share his agenda with anyone but his assistant, who also unfortunately perished in the attack."


    Frost international would likely soar thanks to Justin, they had heavy shipping interests and with the economy on an upwards trajectory, Justin needing heavy imports for Africa for a decade plus, she''d profit immensely. Their Cold Steel weapons division was likely doomed with Hammer, Osborn, and Stark all leagues ahead and only going to go stronger now, until Stark threw his tantrum anyway.


    "You sound heartbroken." Norman Osborn murmured, although audible enough for the table to hear, the CEO of Oscorp looking bored, slumped against the table with none of the decorum the others held, a sign he''d already taken steps perhaps... Justin was trying to ignore the fact that apparently Osborn of all people had been invited before him¡­


    A likely already half insane Osborn to boot. At least Stark wasn''t here. Even without the kidnapping, Justin doubted he''d have received an invite to this kind of meeting.


    It was becoming a bit of a habit now, first the World Security Council, now this? What was next? How many ''secret'' clubs were there?


    He wished he was dealing with the Osborn he half remembered from a Spiderman movie - one dumped by his company, at the brink of economic ruin. But no, Oscorp was strong, very diversified in several sectors, and with the way they were ordering Justin''s batteries¡­ Their often rumored power armor might soon become reality, further increasing Osborn''s fortune.


    Justin ignored him, his eyes focused on Emma, wondering if she''d really killed her father because she''d seen a good opportunity, then buried him in the rubble to blame Wakanda. Vicious girl¡­"Condolences for your loss." Justin said, a wry smirk on his face as he tilted his head slightly, acknowledging she''d done quite well if she''d pulled that off so flawlessly - that none but her equals (or betters) would suspect her.


    Emma met his eyes again, a charming tilt to her lips suddenly, as her eyes grew almost imperceptibly warmer. "Thank you, for your consideration." With her almost smile, came a sharp feeling against his mind, her smile dying out quickly as she winced, looking away from him to hide the reaction. Not that anyone at the table missed it.


    The kind of people at this meeting weren''t the kind to miss any reactions.


    Justin narrowed his eyes, his smirk thinning, he''d felt a mental attack just then, he was pretty sure. Emma Frost was a telepath of some kind then¡­ A mutant? Or something else?. That¡­ Would make business with, or against her, difficult. He''d have to meet her himself from now on if he wanted to stand a chance in any dealings with Frost international, any of his people as a go between and she''d run circles around them if she could just dip into their heads.


    He hoped her range was limited¡­ Or Domino and Phantazia would be giving her a treasure trove of information right now from the Amber room¡­ With the kind of meeting this was though, he doubted she was capable of multitasking and diverting her attention away from them all, he hoped as much at least.


    At least the most vital information did not rest anywhere but his own head.


    Thankfully the Vanko''s had come through shortly after he''d met with Xavier - he''d pushed pretty hard, which turned out to be the right decision or Frost would have taken him for everything in this meeting¡­


    He had, since only a few days ago, two small metal implants behind his ears that were projecting a field through his skull that completely stopped anything like telepathy from breaking through to his brain, and therefore his mind. Supposedly.


    Apparently it worked, they hadn''t exactly been able to test it, so confirmation was good. The fact he''d felt the attack bounce off him, was even better.


    It was an old soviet invention, abandoned because after weeks of use after implanting them in people''s heads, they''d invariably eventually boil their brains, killing them. Not very effective for any normal human.


    Justin had Extremis however, so while the Vanko''s looked to improve upon the process, he''d had the implants installed anyway - a lucky boon considering what he just discovered. His mind, protected by a field that would slowly over the course of weeks do micro damage to his brain while heating it up to the point of brain death. It was not a threat to someone who constantly regenerated after all, the damage healed immediately - apparently it did just fine against a telepath, good to know before he met Xavier again¡­


    Justin gave Emma a sharp smile, they''d have to talk, after this. He now had some leverage.


    A middle aged Asian man in a dark leather tunic, coupled with fancy jewelry across his arms, slammed a hand down on the table, scowling, "I did not call this meeting to socialize, are we done with pointless chattering? Yes? Can we get to the point?"


    Justin leaned back in his chair, eying the man with his glasses, surreptitiously doing a facial search, finding nothing, which made him frown. At least his glasses were still overlooked in all security checks, but to find nothing, considering the kind of company he was in. It was odd. "I don''t even know who you are?" Why should I listen to you? Was the meaning and it was heard clearly between the lines.


    "Xu Wenwu. If you are unaware of me, then I shall not educate you, it holds no benefit to me." Wenwu said coldly in accented English, the rings spinning lazily across his arms, Shaw tensing next to Justin at the sight, the rest of the table looking more attentive as well. Osborn even got up from his slouching posture.


    Justin let out a hum, gesturing with one arm, "Get on with it then." He said genially, not quite willing to antagonize someone in this MCU world who he had no knowledge of, and who the powerful people at this table beheld with some wariness. He eyed the rings around the man''s arms with pensiveness. Ten rings? Surely¡­ Surely not? Aren''t they middle eastern? Is this a change? Justin thought, brows furrowing.


    What he knew about them¡­ Did not merit a position at this table. Which meant what he knew... Was wrong.


    Wenwu kept the scowl as he looked around the table, "I created this society hundreds of years ago, to meet and make use of¡­ Those titans of the world who would most affect and use the tides of change across the world." His intense, dark eyes met Justin''s, "Change has come, it is up to us to influence where it ends, and to all our benefit."


    Justin was inwardly freaking out just a little. Hundreds of years? He was meeting with an immortal? "As the one that threw the rock that sent the ripples across the world - why should I care?" He said with bravado, looking around the table, "We all do business anyway, more or less, why do your opinions matter to what I do?"


    Just because he was off balance, didn''t mean he''d roll over either, if that was why this meeting was called, if this is why he''d been invited to this¡­


    Immortal or not, Justin wouldn''t let himself be slowed down by anyone, especially someone that had failed in hundreds of years to gain as much as Justin had in just a few.


    Osborn laughed sharply, "Hammer, this isn''t about that, this isn''t the nice and pretty outside world, this is where we get real, where we slice up the world between us, to benefit only ourselves."


    "There is¡­ Benefits to cooperation." Fisk said slowly, his gaze sweeping across the table, "We will compete between each other in business." Fisk waved a hand dismissively, "As is our norm." His size made it easy for the man to look over the table as he continued, "Yet we could still profit by clearing the table, all of us moving forward with an understanding."


    Emma Frost tossed her hair irritably, "To think we would not sabotage each other even then is naive, none of us would shirk an advantage."


    Justin wondered if the other men around the table held some kind of anti-telepathy devices or other defenses, or if Frost was taking everything from them. It was interesting that the woman who so obviously could control her every reaction, openly showed irritation. Was she trying to get them to underestimate her?


    Like Justin, she was new, and like him, she also obviously wondered what this was actually about, because no one would be doing the others a favor, they just didn''t work like that.


    "That''s just normal business, give and take. This would be an understanding of a sphere of influence for each of us, of goals, not getting into each other''s way too much." Agger said. The Greek man, with his slick hair and olive skin, looked more like an actor than the CEO of a multinational company. Especially one as dubious as Roxxon.


    "The entire world is my sphere of influence." Justin answered him, refusing the idea of cooperation in the form of an alliance, handily.


    Everyone at the table, eyeing each other, looking for weakness.


    He met Agger''s gaze, smirking sardonically, "So you''re going to stop trying to kill me then, in the spirit of cooperation? Is that it?" He sniped, the Roxxon CEO tossing his head back and laughing, an obvious no.


    So what was the point?


    Shaw shook his head, "You''re all playing this wrong, Hammer won''t listen if you try and play cute." He drawled, eying Justin shrewdly, "Neither will dear Emma, you''ve got to lay the cards on the table, no one made it this far by being trusting or stupid."


    Tiberius Stone snorted loudly, "Or they made it here by being exceptionally stupid." He mocked.


    Wenwu sighed quietly, "Everytime I do this, the arrogance of those seated at this table never abates¡­ Fine. I will lay it out clearly." He said sharply, eyes hard.


    "The point of our gathering is not to ally together, because people like us do not gather allies. It is to clear the path for all of us to benefit through the chaos. To take advantage, to temporarily lessen our rivalries for the benefit of all of us - for a short time¡­ To work, not together, but adjacent. All of us benefiting, in our own ways¡­"


    "We all have our own spheres of influence." Fisk said as Wenwu appeared to be finished, leaning back in his chair, staring at us all imperiously. "We all have men bought, companies subverted, nations willing to look the other way. Combined, even if only by loose strings, we are unstoppable."


    Stone straightened his tie, a greedy look in his eyes, "I would of course gladly assist all of you, the media at your disposal, for a fat fee, of course, but I would be willing to prop all of you up, and your rivals down¡­ For awhile, while it''s interesting enough."


    "Sounds like an alliance to me." Osborn muttered, "This whole discussion is schizophrenic." He scoffed, a thin smirk blooming onto his lips, "We''re all such good friends, I''m sure it will all work out¡­"


    Justin held back a laugh by pure force of will, because for that to come out of Osborn''s mouth of all of them? That was actually hilarious. Talk about throwing rocks in glass houses, schizophrenic indeed¡­


    "No¡­ Not an alliance¡­ A truce. A temporary focus on our own spheres without competition, allowing us to grow unhindered over the length of said truce¡­" Emma said slowly, eying Wenwu with a hint of unease on her face, "What I can''t gather¡­ Is what you get out of this?" Her suspicions were matched with Justin''s, the others seemingly already aware of the man, in a way the newcomers were not.


    Finding out was now on top of Justin''s to do list. Well¡­ Maybe top ten. His to do list was fucking big right now.


    Wenwu''s smile was unpleasant, "What I gain is my business."


    He didn''t elaborate, silence falling around the table as they all eyed each other.


    Justin pondered it. A truce. These companies were his rivals. But realistically, nothing he did would ever bankrupt any of them, most of them operated in too many countries, too many different businesses, for Justin to harm all of them.


    There was something to be said for allowing even his rivals to grow, in their own sectors, without Justin''s interference, and in return, receive none back either. For however long that would last.


    Like they''d already brought up, normal corporate espionage and sabotage was still on the table. That was just business. But how much could he benefit if he didn''t have to worry about the Kingpin blowing up one of his factories, or Osborn sinking or stealing a ship full of exoskeletons, etc. To avoid the kind of corporate war that the current economic free for all would invite.


    It was tempting. Very tempting.


    "How long, this truce? How long would we be able to do this before we start betraying each other?" Agger asked, a wide grin on his face, "It''s interesting isn''t it? To see the massive profit, while always wondering. Is today the day?"


    Shaw''s answering grin was sharp, "A year, I doubt we''d last longer." He looked around the table, meeting the eyes of all of the participants, "One year, where we race forward grasping all the benefits and profit there is out there right now, not getting in each other''s way more than the minimum amount¡­" He tilted his head, eyeing Justin, "I would even be willing to entertain actual cooperation with Hammer industries, it would be beneficial for both of us¡­"


    "Three of the people at this table have tried to kill me already." Justin said mildly, meeting Shaw''s eyes, "Just because you''re not one of them, yet. Does not mean we can work together." Justin wasn''t willing to ally with these people, they were like him, all too likely to come up with a plan to take over the other''s company, all too willing to kill to get what they want - so very like him. The truce however¡­ It held some promise.


    If he could extract a promise they''d hold off on trying to kill him for the year. It would save him a headache. That alone almost made it worth it. It''s not like these people could compete in the two most important sectors he was pushing ahead in right now, Energy and Healthcare. Even in communications he was leagues ahead, none of these people big in the telecom sector.


    "Tentatively I could see myself drawing up a theoretical map of all our interests and negotiating a plan for the next year where we all profit and stay off each other''s toes." Justin said, because it would be a good deal for him.


    After all, his plans were fairly set for the next year, nothing these rival companies would do would massively affect his profits, the field where they most intersected was the weapons industry, and there was room for all of them there with the war and the rearmament underway.


    Roxxon would likely concentrate on taking over the rest of the oil and coal industry, neither going to go under as the public panicked about, but with stock tanking due to public hysteria and sell offs, smaller companies were just there for the taking for Roxxon.


    Viastone and all the companies owned by Tiberius - laid in sectors none of the others touched, and he was easily the one most eager to see some sort of truce, as he''d see profit rising for his companies from all of them. There really were no drawbacks for him.


    Oscorp had their power armor and forays into genetics to go with their more regular businesses. Not to mention all the electronics they supplied for the space program and for the US navy.


    Fisk in construction and logistics would financially benefit the most for all of them concentrating on solidifying their separate holds on industry. Since Hammer would focus on Africa, their construction companies would not be competing anyway, not really.


    And they''d all use logistics companies heavily, especially Justin. And those like Fisk and Frost would profit, without having to lift a finger.


    Frost equally would earn much due to her interests in the shipping industry, and likely would benefit heavily by avoiding any territorial disputes, as the new CEO put her own mark on the various subsidiaries of the company.


    Shaw¡­ He was the dark horse in this, while steel was where he''d cut his teeth, he had an empire in the financial and banking sector, in healthcare as well - where Justin would have seriously harmed him. He also had logistics interests, which clashed with Fisk and Frost - who were bigger fish in that arena. Would he truly be content with this? Cutting up sections of the economy for all of them, when he stood to lose more than anyone at the table?


    He''d still make billions, so it wasn''t really losing. But to people like them, missing out on profit was losing.


    Then there was Wenwu, Justin eyed him, his expression hard to read, I have no idea what he gets out of this? Except maybe, if he has influence in Asia, he takes a cut of anything that comes through there?


    "I can''t, however, agree to this while people at this table keep trying to kill me¡­" Justin laid out, breaking the silence that had persisted after his last comments.


    "Slanderous!" Stone called out, eyeing Justin with a hungry gaze, "Feel like going on the air and repeating that? I''ll cut you in for a tiny slice."


    Osborn cackled, eyes glittering with hints of something dark and ugly underneath, "Scared Hammer?" He purred, both hands splayed out on the table as he leaned forward with a demented grin.


    Wenwu cracked the table with one of the rings, the spinning and glowing ring flowing off his arm, a crack running through the heavy table, almost breaking it in half, silencing them all, his gaze heavy, a pressure pushing down against them, "Hammer has a demand that is not unreasonable, will you comply, or shall we move on with three less in agreement?" He said in a measured tone, slowly meeting the eyes of Osborn, Agger, and Fisk.


    Agger sighed, scratching his chin, "I suppose for profit, I can lean on the people in my company that might have been a tad overzealous." He offered, even here, lying through his teeth. If he hadn''t personally signed off on the assassination attempt Justin would eat his glasses.


    He wondered briefly if Agger was aware of Simon Krieger and his idiocy¡­


    The Kingpin simply nodded slowly, giving Wenwu a measured look, Wenwu taking that as enough agreement as he turned to Osborn. His piercing gaze flashing with distaste, "Are you a part of this Osborn? I require an answer now."


    Osborn muttered to himself, before grinning toothily, "One year? Fine. I can do one year¡­"


    Wenwu nodded sharply, "Then let''s discuss how this truce shall work."


    £ª£ª£ª


    Hours later,


    Private jet, Swiss airspace.


    Justin sat in silence, pondering the recent events. They''d ended up coming to an agreement in the end.


    Then, they''d all been forced to promise him even more - because they''d all figured out Justin could regenerate somehow, and they all wanted it.


    Knowing Emma at least was likely a mutant, he''d frankly told the table it was currently not safe for mutants, which had cooled some of the interest. Notably Shaw, Osborn and Frost all ended up not making deals about meeting with him regarding Extremis.


    Justin wasn''t eager to empower his rivals, but he also had the ability to cancel their regeneration, not that he advertised that. So to make his rivals harder to kill to anyone but him, wasn''t as big of a loss as it first appeared.


    Tiberius Stone hadn''t even waited for a personal meeting to offer his deal, a contract for a full out media blitz on Justin''s behalf for a year across the globe, for free. And a lifetime contract on a price match deal - if anyone tried to buy ads attacking him or his companies, Stone would let Justin know, and allow him to match the offer, and replace those ads with his own. For life.


    Regeneration wasn''t a small thing for men such as these.


    In return for all of that, Tiberius would get the regeneration treatment.


    Fisk, Agger and Wenwu had all scheduled private consultations, Justin would need to find out more about Wenwu before then. To find out what he could achieve and if it was worth giving an unknown immortal any advantage at all.


    Osborn hadn''t asked for anything, or requested a meeting. Justin pursed his lips in thought, of all of them, he''d seemed the most unstable. He was going to be a problem¡­


    Shaw and Frost both wanted meetings, albeit they hadn''t pushed too hard for Extremis, just enough to appear to want the same thing as the rest of them.


    He was fairly sure now that Shaw must be a mutant as well¡­


    Either way, he''d make them all pay dearly for it, Shaw and Frost as well once they''d ensured Extremis and the X-gene played nice.


    Perhaps¡­


    Justin''s mind was protected from Xavier now¡­ Could Shaw or Frost produce mutants for testing? Justin had promised Xavier that he would not perform such unethical tests anymore.


    What the bald man didn''t know couldn''t hurt him¡­


    He''d have to think about it. Weigh the risks. It all depended on how slow the more ethical testing would proceed.


    His thoughts turned to Roxxon''s CEO, the man wanted regeneration pretty badly. Justin grinned darkly to himself at the thought.


    He wouldn''t like how high Justin would set the price.


    When you played in this league, money didn''t buy anything, Agger would have to be creative.


    He looked forward to fleecing the bastard.


    Elena sat down next to him, offering him a plate of beautifully prepared lobster risotto. "I doubt you had time to eat, you need to look after yourself better."


    Justin chuckled warmly, accepting the plate, "You know I can handle more than the average man right? Regeneration and all that¡­" He pointed out.


    Elena smirked, tossing her hair with a mock superior look, "Yes, but still, you are only a man, if you were a woman you''d be able to take care of yourself without prompting." She teased.


    Justin snorted, amused at her cheek, "Didn''t take you long to take after Domino. All my employees are too impertinent." He complained without any heat behind it.


    "Maybe if you stopped sleeping with them, they wouldn''t feel free to sass you." Phantazia said flatly from where she was seated across from them, working on a laptop.


    "I''m only human." Justin said easily, "Have you seen the women and men around here, all tens." He shook his head, they didn''t know his suffering, surrounded by models.


    "Yes. Your life is suffering." Phantazia drawled. Elena hiding a chuckle behind one hand.


    My people are too mean. Justin thought, digging into his excellent food, finding he was suddenly starving. Wouldn''t change them for anything though¡­


    He needed to get Extremis working for his mutants¡­


    Losing them now was unthinkable.


    £ª£ª£ª


    He briefly returned to his London Headquarters, dropping off Elena and Phantazia, before he moved on again.


    He needed to strike while the iron was hot, his people were already buying up land in several locations in Africa, and in one case, an already built bunker that they''d purchased from the Libyan government.


    It had been built as a fallback position for the head of state with capabilities to run the country and a military defense from the inside, so it would serve as a headquarters for him for now.


    The war was an afterthought for him at the moment, he''d keep his defenses high, of course, in case Wakanda tried something. But he had a feeling they were too busy to care about him right now.


    He had too many irons in the fire to not personally be nearby right now. So many of his companies rushing in to build, to survey, to prepare.


    Thousands of his employees were already here, or on their way. The plans after all had been there for long enough already, now it just needed to be implemented.


    And there were still negotiations to be had. Most importantly, he had a tragedy to take advantage of.


    The destruction of the UN building had killed off a large amount of central authority and more importantly, the people who held the purse strings for many of the UN organs that operated in Africa.


    There were regional offices in Nairobi and Addis Ababa, but they all received funding through the secretariat from the UN building in New York. Those bank accounts were not as simple to open up when the majority of the people with authority to touch them were dead.


    The UN needed to be put back together again from the chaos and ruin, and the world¡­ Just wasn''t interested right now. The focus was on Wakanda. So the UN was in limbo, most of its leadership destroyed - and almost the entirety of its central bureaucracy.


    UNESCO and UNIDO had already done plenty of good work in Africa, as had other less well known UN organs.


    Justin intended to enact a gentle takeover. Offering money and support, while slowly folding the Africa branches of the organs into Hammer industries as its charity wing. Taking advantage of their reputation and adding it to his own, building his reputation in Africa even further.


    The UN would eventually pull together again, so he didn''t have forever, but with the situation in Africa, he had faith.


    People did not join these kinds of organizations if they weren''t interested in helping people, and they''d see him as someone capable of ensuring they could continue to help.


    He didn''t foresee too many difficulties. Especially when he could use Tiberius Stone to spin the media angle to ensure he came off as a savior, not an industrial magnate taking advantage.


    He''d build up the infrastructure and business with one hand, while with the other, he''d build schools, distribute food and supplies, and look after the poor.


    Who he''d eventually be able to turn into Hammer employees.


    While hammering down the view into the mind of everyone on the continent - that only he was behind all this help, only Justin, not the UN, not their governments, Justin Hammer.


    He would ensure no country here would ever turn on him, making sure his space industry would never risk destruction from foolish governments or the stupid press of the unwashed masses.


    They''d be his, heart, mind and soul.


    ¡­ If everything went as he''d planned.


    First though¡­ Another stop.


    Because Emma Frost had already reached out. Someone was eager. She''d barely waited hours to schedule a meeting.


    He''d hit Rome on his way to Africa.


    See what the telepath wanted.


    £ª£ª£ª


    London headquarters,


    Eileen frowned, eyes following Mike Capinari on CCTV as he walked towards the security control center on the tenth floor. Eileen had made sure to become intimately aware of the security team that was responsible for her boss'' personal security, in any location. And Mike walked with a slight hitch in his steps from an old injury he''d refused to have healed. (Men were idiots) It was almost there, almost perfect, but Eileen knew Mike was used to his old injury to the point he was completely unaware of it anymore while moving, this Mike¡­ Was too aware of his walk.


    A perfect replica, walking exactly like the original, but¡­ The walk was just¡­ Too focused on being perfect.


    Raven¡­ Again? Give it a rest¡­ She thought with a mix of exasperation and anger.


    Working for Hammer had given her a level of satisfaction she''d never had working for any of her clients, or even from back when she was running with the brotherhood - back when she''d been a dumb girl with a naive and idealistic outlook on life.


    She had fond memories of the people there, but¡­ The older she got, the more she realized how flawed their philosophy was. How Erik was still caught in the past, to the point he couldn''t really see the future, not truly.


    She''d left for mercenary work, her skills ideal for such a life, and her newly discovered cynicism a good fit for that kind of work. Even if she''d never truly cut ties completely, keeping her contacts, albeit rarely reaching out.


    The constant infiltrations by Mystique¡­ Was making her look bad. Was threatening her position now. There were only so many times it could be excused, eventually even Domino wouldn''t be able to prevent Hammer from starting to distrust her.


    Their London headquarters held too many secrets, nothing truly disastrous, because Eileen had made sure nothing of that was in any known Hammer Industries location. But still, she could not allow Mystique to sneak in and achieve her objective. Considering her destination¡­


    Likely to place bugs, or hack into the security mainframe to make it easier to infiltrate again in the future, likely when her boss was in residence.


    "If Mike is hurt, Raven¡­" She sighed, speaking quietly to herself, the man was good, only his refusal to take Extremis due to his fixation with the injury that he''d earned saving his best friend''s life, stopped him from becoming a member of the roving team following Hammer.


    Instead he was one of the top members of the security team guarding his office.


    He also had three young daughters, and Eileen would not be happy if Mystique had done anything that would make things difficult for his family. The security team had become incredibly tight knit, and even she, cold as she was, felt a kinship with the men and women serving in it. Most of them had been amputees, or suffering from other war injuries that had prevented a normal life.


    Mike, with his happy family and fairly good life, was an outlier, which just made Eileen more intent on allowing him to keep that normalcy.


    She played with the button in front of her, one of many in the security suite attached to Hammer''s top floor office, the suite the real security hub of the building. Mystique was playing things carefully, going for the secondary station rather than risk the higher amount of checks on the top floor.


    Eileen wouldn''t kid herself and think that she didn''t know where the real hub was. But there was still much one could do by compromising the secondary.


    I can''t let you keep doing this Raven¡­ Sorry¡­ This time¡­ I like my life as it is now. And Hammer¡­ He''s a net positive for the world, the brotherhood¡­ Can''t do as much for Mutants as he can¡­


    She pressed the button. Watching on CCTV as nozzles popped out of the ceiling all over the hallway. Raven, to her credit, immediately reacted, realizing she had been caught, sprinting down the hallway trying to evade the nozzles, but she was not fast enough.


    And either way she wouldn''t get away, every hallway in the building, and most offices - had the nozzles, the retrofit had been insanely expensive. But as this showed. Worth it.


    The nozzles sprayed their payload, liquid spraying across the hallway quickly solidifying into a yellowish foam. The material Hammer called Confoam quickly enveloping Mystique, covering her, and the hallway, in the foam.


    Hammer believed it would take more than a super soldier to tear themselves out, and it was breathable as well, so safe for a non lethal takedown.


    Too bad it cost so much to make it that I was financially unviable to sell at the moment, no police department could ever afford it - and the military had a limited interest in non lethal means, especially at the cost.


    For their own defenses though? Hammer spared no expenses.


    Every member of the roving team that followed Hammer carried Confoam grenades now. To the cost of fifty thousand dollars a grenade. Luckily the foam did not expire as long as it was not exposed to air.


    She directed security to the hallway, before moving herself, although they had access to the solvent to dissolve the Confoam, there was a chance they''d accidentally spray too much and release Mystique, so she''d better be down there in person, to ensure she was properly caught, and contained.


    Erik might get pissy, but they obviously wouldn''t hold her, just a nice chat, then she could return and report her failure, and hopefully take the first steps to an actual detente instead of these constant needling acts.


    She raised her phone to her ear as she walked, the number already dialed.


    "You wanted a discussion with Mystique, Boss¡­ I''ve got her."


    "I know you''re already on your way, boss, shipping her has¡­ Dangers¡­ Fine. I''ll arrange it."


    You won''t make a fool out of me again, no more favors, Raven. Choose a side. Eileen thought as she hung up.


    I''ve chosen mine.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Rome, Italy.


    Emma Frost was used to dealing with things from a position of uncertainty and forced subordination.


    Her father had seen to that. Wielding his children like tools, Winston had never held an iota of warmth for any of them.


    Emma had worked under his aegis begrudgingly, never for pleasure. Helping him expand the business if for nothing else then to force him to keep his focus on her instead of her brother.


    In the end it hadn''t been enough. Her brother dead. In an ''accident'' so obviously engineered by her father. All for the crime of being uninterested in being a monster, and the embarrassment to the family name due to being gay.


    Emma had loved her brother, the only member of their family that she felt was an actual human being, meant for better than using and abusing every soul in sight. Her own power ensuring that Emma saw only the worst in humanity, deadening her feelings by necessity, making it easier for her to continue to deal cruelty in the name of their father.


    Killing Christian had been her father''s largest mistake in his career and life. Allowing Emma such total access to company resources had been the second.


    Wakanda destroying the UN building while they were both in New York had seemed like a blessing, within minutes of the news, she''d reached out with her power, and without an ounce of hesitation, destroyed the minds of her father and his assistant - his security team already suborned by her power ages ago.


    With her in the back of a limo, her father where he belonged - in the trunk. It had been child''s play to arrive at the rubble that night, using her power to confuse all those present, her people already having hacked into all surveillance.


    Less than an hour of work, and his father was buried in the rubble, the security team having great fun on Emma''s behalf - bludgeoning her father''s body to ensure he had the breaks consistent with being in a destroyed buildings collapse.


    It wouldn''t have held up to an autopsy, but Emma had simply ridden along in the minds of the crew doing it, ensuring they reported exactly what she wanted them too. And like that she was free.


    ¡­ And then days later Sebastian Shaw forced her into the position of White Queen of the Hellfire club, somehow immune to her power, leaving her helpless.


    She''d had no intention of moving up in that club, her position there in the first place had simply been as a pawn on her father''s chess board. She''d been content with taking over her father''s reins at Frost international, she didn''t need to further sink into the scum pond that was the Hellfire club.


    Her fists clenched, the only visible sign of distress she allowed, as she thought back on the humiliation. Of Shaw''s initiation ceremony. Of taking what he wanted, her power for the first time, useless¡­ Shaw stealing something from Emma that she would one day ensure he would suffer tenfold from¡­


    Now¡­ To make matters worse, she needed to deal with Justin Hammer. The man obviously had noticed her mental probe at the meeting in Bern. She hadn''t dared to even attempt the other men after that. With both Shaw and Hammer immune - she didn''t need to out herself to even more enemies.


    She shouldn''t have even tried Hammer, but she had been intensely curious, the man had thrown the world into chaos, she''d wanted to see who he was, really.


    As always when she made a choice out of anything but cold logic, that had failed her.


    Hammer was on his way, even now. For negotiations. Emma was tentatively interested in the regeneration treatment if he could get it to work for mutants. But that wasn''t her main concern, neither was any rivalry with Hammer industries - they did not intersect fields of business - except for Cold steel, a subsidiary she would happily divest herself of anyway.


    ¡­ Perhaps she could rid herself of that and appease Hammer at the same time. Food for thought. She''d have to think on it, Hammer didn''t need Cold steel, so how could she entice him to take it as payment?


    Her fingers tapped the laptop in front of her, Hammer''s intelligence profile pulled up. The man had changed markedly in two years, more than was reasonable really. It had piqued her interest.


    There was something going on there, she felt. She didn''t dare poke around in the minds of his subordinates, not yet. She couldn''t afford to be caught out if they also had defenses. She would already have to do enough to appease the man as it was.


    She hated this, being forced into subservient behavior. But she knew Hammer had the upper hand here, knowing that she had abilities. Like suspecting her to be a mutant. She was also aware Shaw intented to offer him a position in Hellfire as well. Again putting her underneath a man, although hopefully one better than Shaw, the man was nothing but a beast in human skin.


    She steeled herself, gaze cold. She was Emma Frost. She had lived through her father, she was a woman of immense power.


    Hammer would not humiliate her.


    She would match him, she would negotiate, and she would rise above all these fools.


    This was all a minor setback.


    She would persevere.


    £ª£ª£ª


    New York, America.


    Norman Osborn picked up the helmet, admiring the craftsmanship on the beastly mask, the fear it would inspire, a wild grin on his face.


    Let them all play the game of industrialists, they''d never realize he was more, that personal power could achieve so much more than money could ever tease out.


    There was something primal there, something from the annals of humanity, back when civilization had not yet weakened them so.


    He''d been inspired when seeing the batteries Hammer had put out, seeing the serum he was hawking to everyone. Surely if Hammer could do something like that, then Norman''s serum was superior.


    He''d refused to believe otherwise, and it had shown promise, after all. And it had held true.


    He grinned at the mask, feeling it grin back.


    Yes¡­ The serum worked perfectly.


    £ª£ª£ª

 Chapter 11: Friends, Enemies, and the In-betweens.

    <hr>


    Wakandan border,


    Eric Stevens slipped through the jungle, feeling a mix of anticipation and seething anger.


    Wakanda¡­


    His heritage¡­ All ruined, unattainable now, with the entire world bearing down on Wakanda like locusts, ready to pick its corpse clean.


    His revenge however¡­ That was still on the table. He felt his insides burn and he smirked viciously, embracing the burn, the fire within - his trump card.


    Justin Hammer had somehow found out about his connection to Wakanda, Eric didn''t know how, honestly he didn''t really care. What was important, was that the foolish white playboy had decided to empower Eric.


    To use him as his hidden dagger into the heart of Wakanda. Which suited Eric just fine, for now - but Hammer had another thing coming if he thought Eric really worked for him.


    He was his own man, he was no one''s slave.


    Oh, it had burned so painfully yet heavenly, the treatment meant to make him superhuman. Like liquid fire moving through his veins, killing him, scorching him clean, burning away all of what made Eric, Eric - birthing something new, something better.


    Something that would help catapult him to the top of the world, to stand at the apex.


    Extremis, Doc Hansen had called it, looking proud and excited, even as she strapped him in, telling him all about the risks, how he could become a ticking bomb if he wasn''t careful. How most test subjects didn''t survive long after the process, telling him she had a good feeling about him however, she recognized a fighter. A survivor.


    He didn''t like eggheads in general, but Doc Hansen was alright.


    Eric knew he could handle it. He wasn''t like anyone else, and he''d proven it, taking the treatment like a champ, coming out stronger than a super soldier. Wakanda had the Black Panther, the mantle they were so proud of - it would face a Dragon birthed in flames - and would be found wanting¡­ Eric felt the flame burning within him pulse, waiting to be unleashed. Soon, he promised¡­


    It''s a pity Domino appeared loyal to Hammer, their short liaison had really been something. For such an easy going girl, she was a whole pack of wild animals between the sheets.


    The sounds of screaming men, the explosions of artillery fire, the cacophony of a battlefield greeted him as he neared the end of this stretch of the jungle. As he''d been briefed, most of the jungle that had been closest to the ideal positions for artillery strikes, had been cleared off when it became obvious Wakanda did either not possess similar artillery capabilities - or couldn''t use them through the shield.


    He settled just within the embrace of the jungle, right at the edge, watching, spotting the large artillery pieces defended by African militia men mixed in with actual military professionals, the large war machines still firing even as men died in droves around it.


    Eric smiled in satisfaction, uncaring of the death and destruction, feeling right at home. Going straight for the shield would risk being blown to bits in an artillery strike. Hammer''s people had warned him that even Extremis wouldn''t likely help him survive that.


    So he''d need to find another way in, and who better to ask than the Wakandan strike teams that regularly left the shield to strike at the artillery teams and their supply lines - they themselves passed through the shield without dying, somehow. They could share that passage with Eric. One way or another.


    With the amount of artillery fire raining down on Wakanda''s capital at all hours, it was a secret Eric needed if he was going to manage his task. Either that or run into one of their stealth ships and take it over for himself, which was extremely unlikely to happen.


    For whatever reason, Wakanda seemed to be holding the rest of their air fleet back.


    His eyes narrowed as he saw two men vaulting over the defensive line, tearing through the lightly armored men defending the site. Black Panthers¡­. He thought, feeling that familiar battle lust rear its head.


    The desire to meet them in battle, overcome them, prove his superiority.


    Not just yet¡­ He told himself, raising his assault rifle, stepping out into the open, behind the African militias, opening fire on them with pinpoint precision - killing dozens of men with ease.


    The militia and the few professionals still alive from the militaries of some small African nation - were not the US armed forces, and they were being slammed by Wakandan special forces, two super soldiers, and now a flanking maneuver that for all they knew held a dozen more Wakandans other than Eric.


    They broke.


    Eric gave no mercy as he fired continuously at the fleeing men, joining in with the Wakandans who grimly set to the same task, some of the force splitting off to set charges to the artillery pieces.


    The two Black Panthers approached him, neither one of them in the signature armor he''d been told about by his father. New then, part of their last gasp defense, Eric thought with vitriol. Too little, too late, Wakanda¡­


    "What is your purpose, outsider?" The one on the left, a stocky man with only one eye, said harshly.


    Eric dropped his rifle, to show that he wasn''t here for a fight, an easygoing grin on his face, "Just out for a stroll in the neighborhood." He said easily.


    "Just kill him, it''s just a trick to get inside the shield." The other Black Panther said dismissively, the mountain of a man scoffing in disgust before turning away.


    You''ll be the first one I take down later.. Eric thought, eyes narrowed on the man. Before his partner could make this into a fight that would necessitate killing this group and finding another, Eric reached for his lip, "I am N''Jadaka son of Prince N''Jobu, returned in our country''s darkest hour." He proclaimed loudly, drawing attention from the non enhanced Wakandans.


    "You lie!" The large man hissed, turning back towards Eric with clenched fists, "You expect us to fall for this?" He laughed mockingly, "We are not fools, outsider!"


    Eric pulled on his lip, showing proof of his heritage, silencing the man.


    "This¡­ Changes things¡­" He said reluctantly, "... Welcome home¡­" He turned and began barking orders to the rest of the force, leaving Eric with the other Black Panther.


    Eric noticed he was not yet called Prince, nor was he treated with any reverence - they didn''t fully believe yet. That was fine, as long as they believed he was Wakandan and let him inside the shield.


    The sooner he saw his dear uncle the better¡­


    The sooner he brought down the shield¡­


    He''d be the world''s biggest hero in one strike.


    Soon Killmonger would be mentioned in the same breath as Captain America.


    <hr>


    Private Jet - enroute to Rome,


    Justin downed another glass of whiskey, fingers clamped tightly around the glass as he sat on the couch, with the lights dimmed to the lowest setting to suit his dark mood, his suit jacket tossed carelessly over an armchair across from him, his tie undone.


    Rarely did he ever look as untidy as he did right now.


    He almost reached for the bottle of whiskey again, until he noticed that it was half empty, and tossed the glass against the wall with a snarl instead, the shattering glass exploding over the rich, cream coloured carpet. I will not become a god damn pathetic alcoholic, like fucking Tony Stark!


    He would not drown his sorrows in a damn bottle, he was not that much of a fool, he couldn''t afford to be, now that he''d changed the world, its existence hinged on him!


    He''d sent Domino into the pilots cabin, his mood darkening for every minute they were in the air - and the mercenary''s perpetually flippant mood did not sit well with him - not as he was at the moment.


    He''d known when he started on this path¡­ Had known that it would be immensely difficult - had relished the challenge, really.


    How could one not relish the climb to the very top? To crave the absolutely divine pleasure in looking down and seeing all one''s rivals beneath them.


    Yet¡­ He''d expected the likes of Tony Stark to be his rival, his white whale - or as he was attempting to make reality¡­ For Justin to be Tony''s white whale¡­ Not all these threats that just kept crawling out of the woodwork to impede his work.


    To frustrate and delay and even just exist in the periphery, forcing Justin to deal with them or risk interference at a critical juncture.


    Perhaps Vision had been right in what he''d said in the Civil War¡­ Strength invites challenge - challenge incites conflict and conflict breeds catastrophe.


    There''ve been some nice catastrophes lately¡­


    He was still on point to become the undisputed champion of Earth, the industrial leader none could match, but the unknown variables that continued to manifest - were making him weary. One man could only do so much, and although he delegated a lot, it still left way too many threats then he was comfortable with.


    He needed more power¡­ Regeneration was good, but his survivability had never seemed lower than when he now pondered the threats out there. Those closer to home than he had previously realized - his thoughts too occupied by alien invasions.


    He almost reflexively reached for the half empty whiskey bottle, catching himself at the last moment, his face twisting in loathing. This? This is what I fall to just because of a setback? This pity party?


    He growled as he swiped the whiskey bottle off the table with force, breathing heavily, his glasses askew on his nose as he watched the liquid seeping through the carpet. "I. Will. Not. Be. Weak!" He said out loud, punctuating each word.


    That infernal meeting¡­ It laid bare how he was still not powerful enough¡­


    He''d worked too hard to come out on top to falter now, he could have sat back with his fortune and had an easy life until the snap - he''d chosen to work 16-20 hour days to revolutionize the world instead. And everyone kept getting in the fucking way!


    It was just too much at once¡­ This whole Wakanda mess, as beneficial as some of it was to him personally - it was still a huge mess for him to deal with¡­ Then there was dealing with Hank fucking Pym in regards to the Suez¡­ He leaned back on the couch, rubbing his face, uncaring of the drops of whiskey still on his hands. Couldn''t forget the whole HYDRA shit either, with the World Security Council and the missing nuclear capable aircraft carrier added on top of the pile¡­ And who can forget the threat of Magneto¡­ Especially with fucking Mystique caught infiltrating his business again!


    What the fuck was he supposed to do with Mystique? He thought with irritation. He couldn''t recruit her, not as things stood right now, he couldn''t kill her, and he couldn''t keep her prisoner indefinitely.


    He didn''t need a jailbreak from Magneto right now¡­


    And all of that, continuously going on and complicating his operations and future plans - didn''t even begin to touch on the problematic truths he''d faced in Switzerland.


    Emma Frost was a god damn Xavier lite - a telepath capable of mind raping his entire operation. Only by pure luck of having met Xavier shortly before her, did he have any protection from her taking everything from his mind. She was also a business rival that obviously had no problems with lethal resolutions to conflict, if he was correct about her murdering her father.


    Then there was Osborn who was obviously spiraling, the man obviously doing something ill-advised, if his dwindling sanity was that obvious to his fellow billionaires - and he would likely become a problem sooner rather than later. Like this world needed the Green Goblin to further make a mess in the current situation, he thought acerbically.


    And as much as all of those things added to the levels of his stress and would probably have given him blood pressure issues without Extremis¡­ Xu Wenwu was much more problematic.


    Because he was someone Justin couldn''t, as of yet, touch. Not after what he''d found out.


    The ten rings he wore so proudly, rings that were obviously either magical or very advanced tech - led him to believe he was seeing the Mandarin in the flesh - the real one. That in itself wasn''t too bad, necessarily. He''d only ever seen the fake one in the MCU but knew he was supposed to be involved with the Ten Rings.


    An obvious conclusion to draw considering the ten rings on the man''s arms. He rubbed his eyes, pushing his glasses out of the way briefly. Does this change Afghanistan? Was the question that most bothered him.


    If the Ten Rings in Afghanistan were operating under The Mandarins orders, it was unlikely the situation would end the same way. For all he knew, Tony was dead. He didn''t know enough about this man, his operations - or more importantly what he wanted.


    It seemed that no matter what he''d planned¡­ He''d have to send his team to spring Tony early - if he could find him.


    It was unfortunate that he didn''t have the information on this version, the same information that he had been so lucky to have for most of what he dealt with - especially for most threats. Would the Mandarin allow some fakes to operate under his organization''s name in Afghanistan? For what purpose? He wasn''t sure, and it unsettled him.


    He''d been suspicious at the casual display of power underneath the streets of Bern. No one called together a group, such as what met under Universal Bank, on a whim. No one could - unless they have serious power or backing.


    So he''d called Bakshi before he got to London, requesting information, sending him out for him to shake his HYDRA contacts tree - and see what fell loose.


    He''d received the information too quickly. HYDRA was apparently all too willing to slip the information through the few - what was supposed to be secret - avenues Bakshi was still utilizing. At least they''d now confirmed Bakshi could not trust those moles any longer, HYDRA obviously knew about them.


    The information had not been good for Justin''s mental health, hence his current agitation.


    The Mandarin was apparently immortal, or at least old enough it was essentially the same thing, and he was also behind why you didn''t hear much about Asian crime or terrorist groups (excepting the Ten Rings) Because the Mandarin was Asia. Wherever you''d look, from Japan to the Philippines to China to Korea to even India¡­


    Even that shithole Madripoor belonged to him.


    The Mandarin had ironclad control over the underworld all over Asia. And with that kind of control - he surely also have a vast network in legal circles as well, even if it was hard to prove through proxy families that could go back generations. He likely had hundreds of politicians in his pockets - if not outright owning some of the countries involved. He''d had hundreds of years to get his hooks in everything.


    According to the information Bakshi had forwarded, the Mandarin had almost completely eradicated some other Asian organization called the Hand, driving them out of his territories - the group barely surviving in an enclave or two in the western world, HYDRA sometimes utilizing the small surviving cadre for contract work.


    HYDRA avoided tangling with the Mandarin. An organization that hid in the shadows just like them had been torn out of the earth by the roots and practically eradicated by the Mandarin¡­ And from what Bakshi could figure out, HYDRA wanted Justin to know - and wanted him to not poke the bear.


    HYDRA, the Nazi nutjobs that had infiltrated SHIELD and attempted to control the world from behind the thrones, were scared of tangling with Wenwu. They didn''t say that, of course, but it''s certainly what Justin took from it.


    As far as they knew, the Mandarin wasn''t even aware of HYDRA''s existence, and still they avoided him, leery of gaining his attention.


    Justin snorted angrily to himself, not at all pleased with their casual use of their moles to pass along information, or their intent in being so eager and accommodating - Pierce''s work no doubt - trying to recruit him most likely.


    They were also trying to warn him, which he begrudgingly accepted - a war between himself and the Mandarin would dangerously destabilize Earth, completely opposite of his intentions for the future.


    The Mandarin was a potential problem for him. Someone with that much power across Asia¡­ Should he stand against Justin - his business would falter as almost half of the world''s population resided under the Mandarins aegis. He also faced the problem of likely needing to appease the fucking terrorist to get what he wanted.


    What Justin wanted for Africa¡­ The Mandarin already had across Asia - albeit with less spread of miraculous technology at its core - as the man had achieved this over centuries instead.


    No wonder he''d called a meeting of some of the top industrialists in the world¡­ He literally had that power. Justin had come to the meeting out of curiosity more than anything, but it ground his gears that he knew now, that if another meeting was called - he would have to go.


    He could not afford not to. And it burned inside him, to find someone, maybe not an enemy, but a rival still - that could be such a threat to him.


    That could summon him!


    "Do you need anything, Mister Hammer?" Elena said carefully, stepping around the shattered glass, her face showing not a hint of judgment nor compassion, just professionalism.


    Unlike Domino, she hadn''t been sent away, he''d forgotten she was there, tucked into a corner at the front as she was - constantly working and familiarizing herself with her job and his companies.


    Justin slumped, feeling tired and aggrieved, waving at her without care, "No, just brooding, just go¡­ Somewhere else, Elena." He said, dismissively.


    Elena cocked her head slightly, smoothing out her skirt as she leaned against the arm of the nearest armchair, signaling her intent to stay. "Venting out the poison might do you better, sir." She suggested calmly, "That or a few rounds, I could find some boxing gloves as soon as we land if you''d like?" there was an impish quality to her lips, even as she kept an impassive face.


    Justin gave her a dark look, "I don''t usually appreciate my employees ignoring my orders." He warned, some bite to his voice. He''d also seen her move, and felt her muscles very intimately - he didn''t think a boxing match between them would end well for him.


    Elena smiled mirthlessly, raising a challenging eyebrow, "No, Mister Hammer, but you do prefer them to have agency and to act on situations as they come up. Right now, you are in a situation - I am here to listen, to offer advice even, if you''d like."


    God this woman was cool as a cucumber¡­ Justin thought bitterly, nothing affects her¡­


    Justin scoffed at her words after a moment as he realized he''d been silent too long. He didn''t feel like biting her head off, she hadn''t done anything to deserve that, and he didn''t want to go back to his former habits of losing personnel due to reverting to an acrimonious personality and taking out his stress on the wage slaves.


    So he explained the situation in vague terms to his personal assistant - she was a bit too new to drop an magical ring wielding, immortal, terrorist organization leading asshole, into the mix of worries for her.


    How would one tell someone that at minimum 2 billion people, essentially served one man, even if they didn''t know about it. The asshole was like Justin, like he meant to be, just slower at his work and with spiffy and stupid magic rings¡­


    He was not jealous, that is not what this was, he was just stressed, facing too many problems at once - that is all.


    Elena listened calmly as he explained himself, making a thoughtful noise now and then, but largely let Justin talk, and he felt himself grow slightly less tense, the longer he vented, getting it off his chest instead of stewing in his worries.


    Finally he was done, smiling sarcastically at her, hands splayed out, "Well?" He queried challengingly.


    Elena crossed her arms under her breasts, tapping a golden heel on the ruined carpet thoughtfully, "It seems the solution is clear for the moment, at least from my humble position." She said, a slight smirk popping up on her face momentarily, before being smothered.


    Justin sighed, leaning down onto his knees with his elbows, "Enlighten me then, oh wise one¡­" He drawled out, feeling like he might just have a bit of an odd relationship with his closest employees, compared to most CEOs.


    Except for the fucking them part, that was par for the course for CEOs.


    Not that he was supposed to do that anymore, he thought, drinking Elena in.


    Elena shrugged slightly, "Just keep an eye on the situation and otherwise ignore it while you have more pressing matters." She said calmly, her smirk making an reappearance as Justin just looked at her, unimpressed. "Sir, as you''ve said, you have a lot on your plate. This man is not actively hindering you right now, nor do you believe he will. So prepare for the future, but don''t worry about what you can''t affect right now."


    Justin snorted, shaking his head, "Your advice boils down to don''t worry, be happy." He mocked.


    Elena smiled, "So what if it does? Does that make it wrong?" She said lightly, stepping away from the armchair she had been leaning against. "You seem in a better mood already¡­"


    Justin snorted again, but didn''t gainsay her, because she was right, he did feel lighter, less encumbered. He''d been going in a spiral of worries and just needed to be knocked out of it, it seemed. He sighed, nodding his head once, "I suppose you weren''t entirely wrong, I appreciate the assistance, Elena."


    The Mandarin would keep, if he had to make deals with the devil to ensure his tech prospered in Asia, so be it. One day they''d end up opposite each other, he could worry about it then, he had more pressing concerns right now.


    "Thank you, Elena." He added, giving her a fleeting smile, "Give yourself a ten percent raise, will you?" He tacked on, mind already on the meeting ahead, worries temporarily put aside.


    Elena chuckled, giving him a small salute, walking off, Justin enjoying the sight briefly before starting to put his mind to the meeting with Emma Frost.


    As Elena came back just a minute later, to get on her hands and knees with a dustpan and a hand held vacuum to clear out the glass, he mentally upped the amount for her raise.. And got down to help her.


    It was hard to concentrate on his dastardly plans when a beautiful woman in designer clothing was on all fours doing house work for him - because he couldn''t control his temper.


    He was a debonair gentleman after all!


    He chuckled briefly to himself as he vacuumed up small pieces of glass, his mood had indeed changed for the better.


    Domino did well in hiring this one¡­ He thought, eying Elena thoughtfully as she hummed a ditty he didn''t quite recognize as she swept up after his tantrum, not many personal assistants to the rich would ever lower themselves to this kind of work, instead ordering around cleaning staff¡­


    "Will that be all, Mister Hammer?" Elena asked, once most of the mess was picked up.


    Justin smiled at her, utilizing the small interface in his glasses to send off a note to HR to up her remuneration, and give her better access to company files, upping her security clearance.


    "That is all, Elena." He confirmed.


    As she stepped away, her hips moving enticingly due to her high heels, he deeply regretted his rule on not sleeping with employees¡­


    He wouldn''t mind going back for more there.


    He sighed. Ah, well, she''s more useful where she is anyway¡­


    <hr>


    London, Hammer industries HQ,


    Eileen sat down on the chair facing the window that overlooked Mystique''s cell.


    She was loose, guarded by the numerous confoam sprayers in the cell rather than any bindings. She was also naked, having been provided clothes, but refusing them - as a simple way of trying to make Eileen uncomfortable no doubt - when left with too few options in her confinement.


    Or quite possibly hoping Justin would come, and get his interest to flow in other directions than an interrogation, which she inwardly admitted would likely have a shot at working.


    She idly wished she could actually cuff her to a table, just to dial down the smugness in the captive woman''s body language - she already knew she''d be free eventually.


    Although if Mystique knew just how much illegal experimentation her boss did, she might not be so cocksure¡­ She almost wanted to cuff her anyway and tell her, useless as it was.


    Most bindings were ineffective on her unfortunately, as she could simply switch into a child''s body and slip out of them. They didn''t yet have any mutant power inhibitors, although that was on Vanko''s list, amongst hundreds of other things.


    At some point the rough Russian engineer was just going to tell their boss to go jump in a lake, the work never ending as he kept tacking on more and more.


    She wasn''t sure she liked the idea of mutant inhibitors, although Hammer was a better guardian of them than the government in any case.


    Eileen leaned forward and pressed the button for the speaker, simultaneously hitting the button that would clear the view between them, turning the window from opaque to clear, on Mystique''s end. "Raven." She said simply in greeting.


    Raven Darkholme, as that was the visage she currently wore - smiled amusedly, sauntering over to the window, "Eileen, you''ve gotten sharper." She complimented. "Catching me out like that, no small achievement nowadays, fancy new tech too¡­" She trailed off, eyeing the sprayers in the ceiling, an eyebrow raised inquisitively.


    Eileen knew better than to fall for such a simple ploy, Raven could work for it to find out anything once she was undoubtedly released, Eileen would not share anything of note. "Why are you here, Raven?" She asked simply, sitting stiffly in her seat, keeping as full control of her body''s reactions as she could.


    Raven tsked, snapping her fingers, a small smile on her face, "Sharper indeed." She said approvingly. She stretched unnecessarily, raising her arms high up, shoving her assets forward, only succeeding in gaining a slow blink from Eileen.


    "Must you?" She griped, masterfully keeping any other reaction down, refusing to let Raven amuse herself on her account. She hated this part of Raven, the constant provocateur, always looking for angles, for weakness, or something she could use. It used to be in the manner of a spy, a professional, not¡­ Like this.


    Eileen did not hold interest in that, and Raven knew it, so the action was nothing but a deliberate attempt to annoy her and make her uncomfortable. And it worked, as it always did lately. "Why are you here?" She asked again, keeping her voice level.


    Raven made a mou of disappointment, "You''ve gone all corporate on me Eileen." She complained lightly, tapping the glass with one finger, before sighing, "Just keeping tabs on Hammer is all, nothing new." She answered flippantly, "Where is he by the by?"


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    Eileen allowed a small miniscule smile, "I''m afraid Mister Hammer didn''t deem your capture as particularly important, he will not be coming."


    Thank god for that, having to watch them fuck because she couldn''t turn off the recordings for the cell would have been even more uncomfortable¡­


    "Just you and me, huh?" Raven mused out loud, a flirtatious smile on her lips, seemingly uncaring of Hammer''s dismissal, but Eileen knew her well enough, could see the slight tensing in her hands. Eileen just met her eyes with a steady gaze, unamused at her flirtation. "Sigh¡­ I guess I''m stuck here for a bit then, how long do you think?"


    "Did you just say, sigh, out loud?" Eileen complained, now absolutely sure the other woman was just out to annoy her, although parts of her were also beginning to feel uneasy. "I might let you out early if you can convince me you''re telling the truth of what you''re really up to." She said abruptly, narrowing her eyes.


    What is going on with you, Raven?


    "Really, I''m just keeping an eye on him, making sure he isn''t going to be a threat to mutants everywhere. It''s the naked truth." Raven said with a chuckle. "Get it?" She did a little hop to emphasize the effect.


    Eileen''s lips thinned, as she stared seriously at Raven, "What happened to you? The complete professional I knew?" She asked, ignoring her statement, knowing it was part of the truth no doubt, but not the full one.


    She''d always been a consummate professional, that''s what Eileen had admired about her in the beginning, yet¡­ for the past two-three years, this¡­ Harley Quinn caricature of her old friend was in play instead.


    If she wasn''t periodically within reach of Charles Xavier as Magneto''s go-between, Eileen would have presumed she''d been mind controlled or replaced. She still wondered.


    Raven shook her head, tsking again, wagging a finger at her, "I''m the same as always, just a little less stuck in a rut, the world is changing around us, Eileen." The shapeshifter looked serious for a moment, meeting Eileen''s eyes, then that annoying smirk was in place again, the moment gone, Eileen facing a perfect copy of herself. Naked.


    "This cell is monitored via the security system." Eileen told Raven darkly, breathing out her nose harshly, trying to not reach up through the building to force the security team watching the cameras to fall into a heap of limbs as their nerves misfired.


    It wouldn''t solve anything, they would have still seen it.


    "Raven¡­ Cease this." She ordered tersely. She didn''t want to shut off the cameras, didn''t want to shut off any part of the security system for any reason, nor could she tell the security team to leave the room and stop watching - there were more cameras than the cell to watch out for.


    She could be doing this exactly to get her to shut off the security cameras or usher the security team out.


    "No, I don''t think I will." Raven said sensuously, running a hand up her body. Eileen''s body. The effects of arousal becoming visible, giving Eileen a sick feeling to her stomach.


    Eileen watched on grimly, now absolutely sure something was wrong. Raven had been a tease before, even though she''d mostly remained professional - she''d changed for the worse a few years back, but had still been a friend. This? This refusal, while knowing how uncomfortable she was making her? This was not Raven.


    It couldn''t be, Eileen refused to entertain the idea Raven would deliberately set out to hurt her this way. Knowing what her issues were. Not for something less than life and death.


    She hit a button, the cell exploding into foam, Raven enveloped in seconds, her eyes shocked in the momentary flash of them Eileen could catch, before everything was beneath foam.


    She closed her eyes, even as she fished out her phone, not needing eyes to dial one of the two numbers she''d always memorized, even as she never wrote them down or saved them in her phone.


    For all that they were on different sides most of the time - they all knew each other well enough and kept contact numbers just in case.


    "Charles, it''s Eileen, I know we don''t see eye to eye, never have¡­ But I need a favor¡­ I know Dr. McCoy is supposed to enter into service with my employer soon, can we possibly speed that up?" She looked into the cell, feeling a kernel of doubt, did she make a mistake? No¡­ This was not Raven. Couldn''t be. "Something is wrong with Raven¡­" She murmured into the receiver. "Something is very wrong with her."


    She listened attentively for a few minutes, grimacing and shaking her head as Charles tried to gain custody for the testing. "No, she is in my custody, either help or get out of the way, Charles!" She snapped, her tightly held emotions for the last half hour, resting on a taut string after that experience.


    She hung up after extracting a promise of seeing Beast within the day, hesitating as she thought of dialing the second number she''d memorized yet kept off any records.


    She bit her lip, dialing a number¡­


    "Boss, we have a potential issue with Mystique¡­"


    <hr>


    Rome, Italy.


    The number one problem with meeting with Emma Frost, lay in having to leave his bodyguards behind, in trusting Extremis to be enough.


    Domino knew too much to be allowed anywhere near Emma Frost. Even his security detail had too much knowledge about the inner workings of his company and its security protocols - to make it worth bringing them anywhere near a mind reader.


    Especially as he had no idea how powerful she really was. For all he knew she could control them on sight and he''d never know until one day one of them puts a bullet between his eyes.


    His security team would be monitoring him through the connection in his glasses, ready to come down with full prejudice if this was a trap. Justin had even surreptitiously contacted his contacts in the Italian armed forces, just as an extra precaution for backup should he be kidnapped or the like - because they would be able to shut down the airfields and airports - while Domino tracked him down.


    The meeting with Emma was arranged at one of the finest French restaurants in town, which felt somewhat like a snub against Italy, considering they were in Rome, certainly there were Italian restaurants worthy of her patronage?


    Perhaps she simply felt like French cuisine today? Justin didn''t know enough about her to tell, really. That was half the issue.


    He entered the restaurant, a fine dining experience no doubt, considering the finery around, the crystal and gold decorations and the fine wood paneling.


    Also any restaurant that had a small stage with a grand piano - was not what one could classify as low brow.


    Justin approached the single table in the middle, where Emma was seated, she was wearing a white dress with inlaid gold patterns going down her arms and sides, the dress itself conservative, with a high neck, looking like something out of an older era - just more refined.


    "Miss Frost." He said cordially, but coolly, not all together impressed with this entire thing.


    Buying out a restaurant just for this, just so they could sit surrounded by silence at a single table perfectly in the middle, it just seemed unnecessary to him. The fact she didn''t rise up to greet him, trying to assert dominance in a typical business play - also aggravated him.


    He was doing her a favor even meeting with her with his busy schedule, she was the one that wanted something out of him, not the other way around.


    Well¡­ He thought, giving her a once over again, Some things I could be talked into..


    "Mister Hammer, please take a seat, we have much to discuss." Emma said coldly, her face impassive.


    Justin raised an eyebrow in incredulity at her tone and welcome, taking a seat across from her, "What a warm welcome." He drawled sarcastically once seated, "Is this how you normally do business, miss Frost?"


    The woman was treating him like an enemy, when he held knowledge she wanted suppressed. He had expected a warmer welcome and an attempt to create a working relationship, not this.


    It did not bode well for the rest of the evening.


    Emma studied him intently for a moment, before her lips turned minutely downward, "No it is not, not normally." She said, her face firming up, "However recent events have proven to me that strength will do me better than kindness in situations like this."


    There was the soft clinking of glasses out of sight, then two waitresses appeared, one carrying a tray with glasses and small aperitifs, the other carrying a wine bottle.


    Both were beautiful, dressed in fine clothing not belonging to a waitress, if anything they looked right out of high society. He squinted, bringing up facial recognition in his glasses, he was pretty sure he recognized one of them, wasn''t she a french movie star?


    His search confirmed it, the facial recognition for the other woman coming back as the fucking granddaughter of the French president.


    Both seemed utterly terrified as they approached, which raised Justin''s hackles, as he slowly met Emma''s gaze, "This is your idea of convincing me to be an ally instead of an enemy?" He said, gesturing to the two women.


    As a show of power, it was something¡­ But it only increased the odds Justin would be against her, he couldn''t understand her play.


    Emma smiled coldly, curling a long finger to one of the women, the president''s granddaughter, who smoothly stepped over, even as her eyes screamed out her terror. "Too many times now, men have used me, used my power, my looks, my brilliance." Emma said softly, gently touching the chin of the woman held by her telepathy, but cruelly left aware of it, "I do not intend for you to be another, Mister Hammer. This demonstration, while unpleasant, proves my point, I trust?"


    Justin grimaced, shaking his head, grabbing a glass and an aperitif from the other woman, the better to get them sent away sooner, he certainly wasn''t actually going to eat or drink anything now¡­ "It proves something alright." He agreed darkly.


    Obviously she could mind control people, which was scary as fuck, but it was also not the best way to start a business relationship to threaten him so openly. Where did she grow up? The hunger games?


    "Do you need further proof, Mister Hammer? You are a ladies man are you not?" She asked, tone dripping with disgust, "Shall we see what service these women can provide you? Moved by a simple thought?"


    She gently gestured with her finger, the president''s granddaughter kneeling, her eyes shiny in unshed tears. Justin felt only disgust watching this sick display of power.


    Justin could practically feel the ice cold terror wafting off the women, he met Emma''s eyes coldly, "How are you any different?" He asked starkly.


    She paused at that briefly, tilting her head slightly, "Excuse me?"


    Justin waved at the women, lips curling in disgust, "These women, you''ve taken their bodies against their will, whether you force them to ''perform'' or not, you''ve already done the same injury to them that I assume you''ve suffered, from what you''ve said so far."


    Although who the hell had the means or the balls to do that to this woman? And survive it¡­ Justin thought, acknowledging her superlative beauty, but recognizing the cruelty and calculation within. He was somewhat similar after all.


    He certainly would use people as well, if they weren''t his, they were just numbers on a board, he wasn''t a champion of justice or something ridiculous, he was a supervillain and an industrialist. That said, some lengths even he didn''t go to - he had a feeling this woman was far less constrained.


    Emma pursed her lips, waving a hand, the two women leaving the dining room, "They will not remember a thing." She said, dismissing the comparison, picking up a wine glass, one of the thralls having filled it while she coldly threatened to use their bodies for her purposes.


    Puppets to move as her strings commanded, with no care for them, enforcing a greater cruelty by allowing them to be aware even as she puppeted them.


    Justin scoffed in disquiet, "If you didn''t remember whatever turned you into this cold bitch? Would it suddenly be fine?" He mocked lightly. Because fuck that. "You can''t erase a traumatic experience by wiggling your fingers, somewhere deep down¡­ They''ll remember."


    Emma''s eyes narrowed, "Tread lightly on this subject." She warned, fingers tightening around the glass, but she looked uncomfortable, he''d scored a point.


    Amusing that the subject matter irritates her, but she is the one who chose it for her ''demonstration'' He thought. Although maybe amusing isn''t the right word for this situation. Endlessly fucked up and cruel fit better.


    "You brought it up." Justin rebutted mildly, grasping a wine glass just for something to hold, having no intention of drinking anything. "You invite me here, and attempt to threaten me, my company, my employees, and your feelings are hurt because I call you out on it¡­" His eyes narrowed as he contemplated the woman, going through the conversation again.


    Actually¡­ It''s odd¡­ Why would she be so confrontational? What purpose would it serve? Threatening me, yes? But it could be achieved so much simpler without risking my anger or me actually accepting her bluff¡­ If it was a bluff..


    No¡­ It must have been¡­


    "That was a test¡­" He said with disgust, putting the wine glass down, "Well, did I pass?" He said, giving her a displeased look. Not at all happy with this bullshit with the week he''s had. At least he hadn''t read this woman entirely wrong in Bern, he''d begun to wonder if she was really completely ice cold and heartless.


    It was good for business, certainly would have served her well as CEO, but for allies, it was suboptimal. No one can begin to give out even an iota of trust if they believe the other party is completely irredeemable.


    There must be at least some level of belief that there were lengths the other side wouldn''t go to, or any cooperation was impossible.


    Emma raised an immaculate eyebrow, nodding stiffly. "You performed adequately, I could not risk you being the same kind of man as I''ve already dealt with before¡­ Not with what we are both facing soon, we''d do best to be allies for the near future." She paused delicately, adding. "You have a certain¡­ Reputation."


    Justin grimaced slightly, "Never by force, or coercion, or any kind of pressure like that." He said, disgusted by the insinuation she had thought him capable of that. Had prepared this meeting, and kidnapped those women specifically because she thought it possible.


    He squirmed slightly guiltily however, because while he hadn''t forced Natasha into bed - her entire mission being to seduce him - it still came awfully close to the line of the same thing.


    He was a villain, but he was not the kind of man to force himself on women against their will. Although if she had that kind of history¡­ Some of the tenseness in his shoulders eased, it would explain why she was so confrontational, why she was sounding him out in such a harsh manner.


    He grimaced internally, she''s probably seen the video¡­ And knows the context behind it¡­


    If she had the ability to kidnap the president of France''s granddaughter on hours of notice, she had the ability to find the video.


    Emma shrugged lightly, seemingly unconcerned with his thoughts on the matter, "I needed to know, and at the same time warn you what could happen were you to become an enemy of mine." She frowned, eyeing him seriously, her eyes cold as ice, "We move in a world unlike any other, Mister Hammer, we can not afford to take anything for granted - I could not afford to let you walk out today without knowing how dangerous betraying me would be."


    "I don''t disagree, I certainly don''t trust you, and after this, trust you even less." Justin replied dryly, "Although I understand why."


    She didn''t trust him, he held one of her biggest secrets, they were business rivals. She had every reason to be afraid of what he''d do, hence the heavy-handed show of what exactly she could do to his people if they were to be enemies.


    Even if at least part of it was put on as an act to take his measure, the meaning behind it had been true. She would destroy him if he revealed her secret.


    That language he understood, as opposed to the manner in which she delivered it. He could respect mutual assured destruction, although it would have been far simpler for her to simply lay her cards on the table, Justin was not a fool, nor would he have shied away from such a discussion.


    It would have been better than this frankly horrific show that would give him nightmares for a while and have him look twice at any of his people for a long time going forward.


    How sure was he that Xavier hadn''t compromised his staff when they met in Johannesburg?


    He didn''t overly blame her in the end. She was working on what knowledge she had. He would have held a frank discussion on their situation.


    But she didn''t know him, and she couldn''t read his mind like she no doubt did to everyone she met, so she''d pushed to see how he would react. To learn how corrupted he was, to see how easily he turned to rage or fear.


    Justin idly wondered if she would have tried to kill him if he''d accepted ''servicing''.


    He imagined so. She didn''t strike him as shy with pulling the trigger.


    Emma nodded her head slightly, "Trust isn''t something that we''ll ever have." She said frankly, "I can never trust a man that I can''t see, fully see, again." She added, making a small gesture to Justin''s implants. "What I propose is an alliance of mutual benefit, where it is too costly to betray each other."


    Justin certainly wasn''t going to give her access to his head, but he also wasn''t sure he wanted an alliance with this woman. He was doing fine on his own. He didn''t see much benefit for him in all this, and he wasn''t a charity, if all she had for him was threats, he would tell her to go fuck herself.


    Perhaps from a distance.


    Fuck, he needed that AI, telepathy couldn''t do shit to that¡­


    "You have threatened me, disparaged me, talked down to me." Justin pointed out calmly, meeting her eyes in all seriousness, "Except for your powers, which I can''t trust, why on earth should I become allied with you, Miss Frost? How would I benefit?" Show me you''re more than threats and posturing¡­ Or I''m out.


    "Sebastian Shaw and the immortal Selene¡­" Emma said grimly, "Them and their Hellfire club is why you need me to not be an enemy, and I need you to not be one in return - they are too powerful, the Black King and Queen, for you, or me, to go at it alone."


    ¡­.


    Another fucking secret society! Justin wanted nothing more than to scream out his frustrations at the world. How could he possibly keep running into these things? If the Illuminati were fucking real then he was done, he''d just let the world save itself.


    He wanted to get drunk, or go fuck someone, or a nice massage, or all three - he really wanted to just scream out his frustrations.


    But not with this ice cold bitch watching. So all he could do was say.


    "Tell me more."


    <hr>


    Kairo, Egypt, five days later.


    Justin paused at the entrance to the restaurant, just taking in the absolute dichotomy between the two women, one he''d met in Rome, and the one he was meeting here in Kairo.


    Emma had been cold, impersonal, and had arranged everything around her to just so, buying out an entire restaurant and getting rid of everyone but the minimum mind controlled ''staff'' needed for one meal - all for the sole purpose of their meeting.


    Not that either of them had eaten a single damn thing, but that just furthered his point.


    There had been privacy, sure, but the entire meeting was all business with just the hint of underlying threat underneath it, not in any way meant to be a comfortable dining experience. Should he amend that to the meeting being all threat with a hint of business? It seemed that fit better¡­


    Now as a juxtaposition there was this.


    Due to their dinner being postponed due to the rapid escalation in world issues, he''d been invited to dinner as soon as they were on the same continent again. They''d been working close together over the last few days, albeit via facetime and phone calls, to set up a solution for the Suez canal - so here he was, having been invited to dinner by Hope Van Dyne.


    He''d still promised her to return the favor in San Francisco one day soon, but he''d accepted the invite, even if he was wary of another murderous business woman situation.


    Luckily, it seemed Hope really was all that she seemed. Down to earth, intelligent, and without any airs.


    It was a small eatery, the weather worn sign outside not even giving a name, simply a picture of some sort of bird, too faded to easily tell what kind. It didn''t even have a door, simply a hole in the sandstone wall, thin, almost translucent curtains hanging in the entranceway in several layers, no doubt to help keep the sand out.


    He was mildly curious how they avoided being robbed at night, but charmed by the down to earth local vibe it held, not one he ever saw anymore, the circles he moved in didn''t exactly come around to these kinds of places.


    When was the last time he did something so simple? When was the last time he even did something lazy and normal like swing by a burger place?


    Justin stood at the entrance taking the place in. It was loud, first of all, an incredible din of noise around the place. Nothing distinguishable as the noise just mixed together, as the working class supped and drank after their hard shifts, some of them playing board games as they drank or smoked.


    The noise came not only from all the people that absolutely filled the small eatery from wall to wall, but also from the sounds of the kitchen, pots and pans clanging, sizzling and searing audible as flashes of flame and steam could be seen through the viewing hole built into the separating wall between the kitchen and dining area - you could hear the loud, shouted arabic of the chefs loudly swearing and ordering each other around, a radio was playing some sort of music in the background of the kitchen, but it was impossible to hear over the noise.


    The place looked clean and well put together all in all, something he hadn''t expected with seeing so much smoke in the air, both from the kitchen and from the patrons - it looked rough and you might have an expectation of things being unclean at that, but no. The eatery was simply rugged in appearance, most of the furniture appeared handmade, as did the curtains and tablecloths, in essence it looked well loved and taken care of. A family run business by all accounts, a charming little hole in the wall kind of place. And the noise would in its own way provide plenty of privacy just as his meeting with Emma in an empty restaurant.


    Just in a very different manner. The two women showed just how dissimilar they were and gave Justin an invaluable insight into their minds just by these picks - Emma holding only facts, logic and business, close to her heart, trusting no one - while Hope believed in people, trusted people, counted on people.


    They were as different as two women could get.


    Normally Justin wouldn''t even see a place like this, not in this life. So he was oddly pleased at what he saw as he stopped holding up the entrance, and walked into the din, spotting Hope sitting by the wall right next to the kitchen, in a tiny booth, appropriately dressed for the local customs, sans the face veil.


    Hope got up as he got close, a small pleased smile on her face alerting Justin to her being aware of his silent pleasure at the locale.


    "Nice to finally see you in person, Justin." She said, raising her voice to be heard, though they were only feet away from each other.


    Justin smirked, stepping forward, kissing both her cheeks, "Pleasure to meet you again, my dear, it''s been years, far too long, really." He escorted her for the few steps it took to get back to the booth, her arm loosely entwined with his, "And how did you hear about this location? It''s utterly charming!"


    They both slid into the booth, Hope waving down the waitress, smirking at Justin as she ordered everything for him, drinks and all.


    "Hope you don''t mind, but I''m dying to see your reaction to some of the food here." She said, her hair hanging loose instead of her usual ponytail. She looked comfortable in her sand coloured robes and street wear, looked at home, unlike Justin in his Armani suit.


    Before he could reassure here that he didn''t honestly care - besides he was unlikely to understand the menu anyway - she continued speaking, "This little gem actually came to me from General Abubakar Farouk." At Justin''s questioning look, she smirked playfully, "Aren''t you reading my emails, Justin? He''s the general in charge of protecting and cleaning up the Suez, we''ve been coordinating for days."


    Justin cleared his throat somewhat sheepishly, "I have a new personal assistant, between her and Bakshi, I generally dictate most of anything important after a brief synopsis of a situation - I rarely personally read most of my emails anymore." He could not remember the general at all, but with as many people mentioned in a day to him, that''s not too surprising, it''s why he had people for that.


    Hope laughed, leaning back against the backrest, one hand idly playing with the homemade clay mug she''d been drinking from before his arrival. "Way to make a woman feel special." She mocked lightly, before smiling slightly, showing him she held no hard feelings, Hope continuing on with her story, "Anyway, the good general is the typical military hardass cut from rock and about as emotional as one - but he does have a granddaughter he absolutely gushes about¡­"


    Justin nodded looking around with a more discerning eye, noting several items that did lend itself to a more nationalist or militaristic influence, "And she owns this place I assume then."


    Hope nodded as they were interrupted by the waitress bringing their drinks, also in clay mugs, and a plate of appetizers, both of them giving the woman brief smiles in thanks.


    Hope picked up a piece of naan bread and dipped it in the hummus, taking a dainty bite, humming in appreciation, "Sometimes you get tired of the gold plates and the snobby maitre d''s and just want a more homespun place, you know?" She said, looking contemplative.


    Justin tried the hummus, finding it delightful, and less garlicky then what he''s experienced in North America, he preferred this, he found. "I can''t say how long it''s been since I''ve been to a place anywhere similar to this." He gave Hope a thankful smile, "I understand where you''re coming from, even though I enjoy the finer things in life, there is definitely something to be said for a homemade meal as well."


    All in all, he felt more relaxed than in days, the hustle and bustle of business, threats and world altering events just¡­ Melting away, lost in the din and cacophony of people simply enjoying a good time, with good food and company. Plain and simple, but uncomplicated - and he could do with that once in a while.


    Hope nodded, a glint in her eyes as she grew slightly more serious, "I admit I had ulterior motives as well, we''re taking a big chance here, involving Pym industries with you."


    Justin smirked, adjusting his tie smugly, "I see, and I suppose I pass with flying colors then?"


    Similar meeting purposes - very different approach, he thought in amusement.


    Hope smirked slightly, hiding a chortle, "A solid C." She taunted him, taking a sip of her newly arrived drink, steam wafting out of it.


    Justin shook his head, affecting a wounded look, "That''s a shot straight to the ego." He complained lightly, understanding where she was coming from, and pleased he''d lived up to her expectations. "I do look out for the little guy, you know, the wage and health benefits in my companies outshine every other industry and government in the world¡­"


    Hope tilted her head slightly, narrowing her eyes, "What one does for one''s business and what one does when interacting with people with no use - are two separate things." She pointed out dryly, her expression easing as Justin helped himself to another piece of naan. "That said, you''re right, and it does ease my mind somewhat to see that my father''s opinion of you is inherently flawed."


    Justin smiled sardonically, "Ah, you never did tell me how you convinced the great Hank Pym to do this - after my every argument failed spectacularly."


    Honestly! Justin could have offered the man the moon and he would have sniffed and claimed it was too small and why wasn''t he offering Jupiter¡­ Fucking Hanky Pym¡­


    Hope smirked somewhat viciously, and Justin had to say that vicious looked good on her. Very good. Some women were like flowers, soft, pretty and delicate - and some were more like a tiger or other predatory animal - vicious, indomitable, unbending. Hope definitely belonged in the second category.


    Emma had a category of her own. Probably a basilisk, beautiful in a way, kills you with its gaze, undoubtedly venomous, it fits the dangerous woman to a tee.


    "I''ll keep the details as family secrets." Hope said, eyes glittering with some hidden pleasure, lips quirked wryly. "But he came around to my point of view¡­. Eventually."


    Justin raised his clay mug for a toast, laughing lightly, "To stubborn old men and their children showing them how to do things better!"


    Hope snorted, but picked up her own mug, knocking it against his, "To a fruitful relationship."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, "On the first date? Miss Van Dyne, what kind of man do you think I am?" He teased, smirk widening, the stressors of the past week just sliding off his shoulders.


    Hope blushed slightly, but she met his eyes without shame, giving as good as she got, "An incomparable man slut." She matched Justin''s smirk, rolling her eyes slightly, "I meant a business relationship you hedonist!"


    "Uh-huh." Justin said skeptically, smirking behind the mug, taking a sip of the very strong coffee, almost holding a nutty flavor to it.


    Hope laughed, looking exasperated, even as she hid her mouth with one hand, eyes warm, "You''re just going to continue to be a horrible cad, aren''t you?" She asked


    Considering it seems to be working very well¡­ Justin thought.


    "Yes." He said simply, raising his mug to her in a salute.


    Nothing more than a pleasant meal and even more pleasant company came from the rest of the night, Justin couldn''t feel disappointed at it. They''d lingered until the proprietor kicked them out, two hours after closing time, eating more than they should, definitely drinking more than they should, and getting to know each other far further than they ever had as simple business associates.


    He still wanted the Wasp on his team, wanted Pym industries working side by side with his own, if not swallowed into his budding mega corporation.


    But¡­ He might have actually made a friend.


    As pathetic as it was to say. Justin didn''t really have any of those before now.


    It would be interesting going forward.


    As long as he doesn''t strangle Hank Pym tomorrow¡­ Today¡­ That dinner did go long, gosh.


    Domino gave him a once over as she picked him up, a mien of surprise on her face, "You okay, boss? Usually I don''t see you smile like that unless you got lucky?" She looked around skeptically at the tiny alleyway and the small hole in the wall restaurant, the area deserted at this late time, "And I don''t think you''d be doing any of that here." She said skeptically, yet still examining him intently for ruffled clothes or other signs of activity.


    Justin smiled, waving off her inquiries, "I suppose I did get lucky." He said, finally, to himself.


    The panic that had begun gripping him so fiercely was settling down, he was facing threats, yes, but he could handle them.


    He was Justin Fucking Hammer.


    <hr>


    Next day, Port Said, Egypt.


    Justin stood looking out over the absolute mess that had been made out of the mouth of the Suez Canal.


    He wasn''t alone, General Farouk was with him, surrounded by countless civilian and military engineers and a complement of Egyptian special forces.


    Also with them were Hank Pym, standing to the side by his lonesome with a fierce scowl on his face, eyes fixated on the canal, where his daughter was.


    Of course, there were also a mass of reporters just out of range, held back by Egyptian soldiers, but well in range to continue snapping pictures.


    "It''s certainly a job well done." Justin muttered, staring at the absolutely perfectly executed blockage of the canal, several wrecks not only blocking the mouth of the canal - as well as several more at different points in the canal - but they''d also sunk ships waiting to enter, making a operation to clear the blockage conventionally take even longer, as they''d first have to clear out the surrounding area.


    "Are you admiring the work of these rabid terrorists, Mister Hammer?" General Farouk asked tersely, stepping up beside him on the cliffside overlooking the canal.


    Justin nodded, uncaring of the sour expression on the otherwise stone faced general, "They did good work, I don''t need to lie to comfort myself or anyone about it." He smirked, glasses flashing as he received up to date information on the operation through them, "Besides, I''m about to upstage those savages anyway¡­"


    General Farouk harrumphed loudly, hands held behind his back as he gazed across the destruction, "If it works, you have as previously discussed, free range for what you need."


    Justin nodded, pleased. Separate from the deal with Pym technologies, he''d made his own deal with the Egyptian government, he needed a good place for his more inhumane experiments - this one separate from the likes of Cho and other scientists of a more delicate constitution, and Egypt would be far more suitable than a western country. Of course as far as the government was aware, it was simply military research being performed.


    Mostly he needed somewhere the X-Men were unlikely to poke their noses in, and Egypt was definitely not a country for strange or different people to go snooping around in.


    "I don''t approve of using my daughter for this." Hank Pym interrupted rudely, stomping up to them both, expression rigid and uncompromising.


    Justin surreptitiously rolled his eyes, continuing to look over the canal as General Farouk glared at the other scientist.


    "You refused to assist us, refused to allow us to do it, refused to allow Mister Hammer to do it, why then are you surprised when your daughter is the only one left?" The old general said quietly, mindful of the audience of aides nearby - and the press further away.


    Hank muttered something angrily too low to hear, but notably did not present any other protests, knowing as he did, that his daughter was already in position to begin shrinking ships and nothing would change that now.


    Justin brought his hand up and toggled the mic on his collar, his glasses able to take in any returning communication and putting it as text across them, "Domino, you and the security team?" He asked calmly.


    Text strolled back, "All in place, we got you covered, I will be back at your side in approx 3 minutes, just one last check of the perimeter."


    Justin ignored the other two men as he continued, "Vanko? In position?"


    He''d brought Vanko with him, and ordered Frank and Brock to fly over into the area from their place in Somalia as well. If any time was when Wakanda would sally out of their shield to use whatever air capabilities they still had - it was now.


    It''s not like they''d been able to hide this whole process from the media, it was beyond obvious something would happen today in the Suez, and with his presence and the presence of Hank Pym¡­ Well the Wakandans might be stupid, but they weren''t idiots, they could spy the connection there.


    Vanko''s reply scrolled in, "Da, sensors calibrated, maybe work, maybe not, will find out."


    Justin scowled slightly, he''d hoped for a better answer than that. But he could only work with what he had, "Frank? Brock?"


    "In position." Scrolled by twice from two sources. Scorpion and Vulture were ready to deploy if Wakanda dared to try and repeat their terrorist action against the Suez canal.


    "Will your people be able to deliver?" General Farouk asked, calm despite the fact they were practically offering themselves as bait.


    Justin''s security team and the general''s forces would defeat most normal enemies, and likely would win against a Wakandan strike time as well, but it wouldn''t be immediate, and accidents happen.


    Whether there would be any Black Panthers was another matter, but for that he had more backup, and Domino who could do a lot of damage to anyone if her life was at risk.


    Speaking of, Domino sauntered up, checking over her weapons one last time, "Security is as tight as we can make it on short notice." She reported, not bothering to holster her main weapon.


    Justin looked up into the sky, knowing Vanko''s drones were up there somewhere, ready to scan for Vibranium, something they hadn''t perfected, but they didn''t need exact down to an inch perfection - good enough would be good enough.


    "You''re in charge here General, give the word." Justin said, not as worried as he might have been just a few days ago. He had Extremis, Domino, his security team and his HAMMER team on site.


    He''d still look for more personal power later, but for this, it should suffice.


    General Farouk grunted, waving an aide over, taking the military communication radio off his hands, "Miss Van Dyne, you may proceed." He said gruffly into the radio.


    They all watched, shouts of shock and awe from around them, but notably not from the three men at the forefront - as the largest tanker sunk into the bay in front of the Suez - began rapidly shrinking.


    Justin smirked, seeing the reporters losing their minds, another thing to add to my legend¡­ He made a face of distaste, even if I have to share it with Hank fucking Pym.


    Said man walked away in a huff from the group as the first ship disappeared. Looking supremely displeased. Justin really wondered what the hell Hope could have possibly done to convince the old grouch.


    Justin turned back to the spectacle, keeping half an eye on the sky, but so far there had been no sign nor any warnings. The Suez canal would still need a week or two to clean up whatever pieces would be left before reopening. The pieces that had blown clear off the ships that they couldn''t get to easily, but with the ships themselves gone - it took years off the operation.


    "Contact." Vanko sent him with urgent priority. Justin''s back straightened immediately as barked out, "They''re here!"


    Domino grabbed his arm and started moving back away from the cliff even as military personnel and his security team jumped into action.


    Justin kept his eyes on the sky, C''mon, C''mon! He said to himself, his heart skipping a beat when a holographic bullseye appeared, shimmering in the sky, then a second one, then a third. The drones were painting targets, having found Vibranium.


    Gunfire broke out around them as Wakanda soldiers came out of nowhere to bowl into the Egyptian forces, managing to have the element of surprise despite everyone having been waiting for their appearance.


    Dozens of soldiers died even as Justin''s security team and Domino jumped into the action, firing into the war dogs, each member of the team paired with another for targets - to ensure they had enough firepower to take them down immediately.


    Energy weapons discharged, moving down an entire line of War dogs, as the rest spread out, seeking out their targets and presenting less of a target for Justin''s men.


    Justin held a gun loosely in one hand, hanging back behind Domino, keeping one eye on the fight, and one on the sky.


    Explosions were occuring all across the sky above the Suez canal, Vulture gleaming in the sun as he tore through the sky, missiles and energy blasts knocking out the Wakandans camouflage fully - opening them up to artillery fire and the Egyptian air force.


    On the other end of the cliff facade, Scorpion had appeared, moving like an agile artillery piece, his weapons honing in on any target the Vulture softened up for him and punctured right through, destroying the vessel. The Wakandans moved erratically and seemed surprised at their situation - taking a long minute to start responding, in which they lost three aircraft.


    As two of them sped down towards Justin''s position, no doubt to bombard the Egyptian leadership and himself, as a last fuck you before they died - Whiplash rose up from where he''d been hiding at the bottom of the canal, his silver armor gleaming as water sloughed off it, the multitude of Arc reactors shining intensely as he flew up to interject himself between Justin and the Wakandan aircrafts.


    Justin knew it would look brilliant on camera, the reporters for once having a good use.


    The aircraft fired, and Whiplash swiped his arms out, his arc reactors flaring up even stronger, a barely discernible corona of power surrounding him in a large bubble, the Wakandan attack destroyed when it came into contact.


    "My turn!" Vanko called out with a humorous tone of voice, using his external speakers cranked up to the max, holding both his arms out in front of him, two charged beams of pure arc reactor power flashing forward, punching straight through the Wakandan airships.


    At the same time, Vulture landed on another, shooting a beam from the arc reactor on his chest, holding onto the ship with his claws as they desperately rolled to throw him off, the beam burning through the ship until everyone inside were cooked alive, jumping off to hunt another ship, the Wakandan aircraft plummeting into the Suez, mostly intact.


    With Scorpion running around the edge of the canal and firing into the sky limiting the Wakandans movements, with Vanko protecting Justin''s side, with the Vulture hunting them down - the remaining few Wakandan aircraft fled suddenly, to the astonishment of those watching, no one expecting them to flee. Not with how suicidal they''d been so far in this short war.


    Justin looked around, noticing he had moved away from Domino slightly as he''d been focused on the fight in the air. Despite the fighting he could see that half the press core was still in place - not even imminent death enough to move them.


    Good, it would make for some amazing press for him, defeating Wakanda and cleaning up the Suez canal at the same time.


    He smiled smugly, HAMMER got a good debut here. If Hope was doing as planned¡­ She was still shrinking ships, working even as Wakanda was repelled, showing the world that life moved on, that Hammer industries and its allies could defend them.


    It was a very good day. He winced as he scrambled away from a thrown spear, ending up even further away from Domino, a battlefield was not the best time to monologue, whether internally or not, he chided himself.


    Out of the corner of his eye, even as the battle was winding down, the Wakandans on the ground having no avenue to escape, so they were fighting to the death, Justin saw something moving inside the guard perimeter.


    Justin saw a Wakandan heading for Hank Pym, having somehow gotten past the defensive circle of guards, and Justin almost slowed himself down to keep himself out of it even as he was already right by them. It would have been perfect, Hank Pym dead by Wakandan hands - no ties to Justin at all, Hope brought closer into his circle in grief, Pym technologies within his grasp.


    Yet¡­


    His mind flashed to dark eyes flashing with brilliance, quirky little smiles as stories were shared, the scent of rose water, the hands of an engineer, yet still soft and womanly as she held his hand and explained the lines in them, the brilliant woman somehow suckered into astrology of all things. Somehow managing to make it charming instead of silly.


    He found himself moving, intercepting the spear, grunting in agony as it speared through his abdomen shortly thereafter, but leaving Hank Pym safe. The old man better appreciate it!


    Domino was going to be pissed he left her side in the first place. Phantazia was going to rip his head off for it.


    But¡­


    Hope¡­ Was a friend, maybe. Could be, were they? He was already going to conquer the world, he didn''t need to harm her for it. Didn''t need to see her grieve to get ahead, not when he''d succeed either way.


    He raised his gun, and nailed the surprised Wakandan between the eyes before his security team could, gritting his teeth together as he pulled the spear out in front of the shocked white face of Hank Pym, keeping a hold of it in one hand - because free Vibranium - it was his now.


    It would look good on his wall once he built his new headquarters.


    He spit out blood even as the wound in his abdomen sealed up, giving Hank Pym a bloody smile.


    "You''re welcome, old man."


    <hr>


    Los Angeles,


    Obadiah Stane stood at the balcony jutting out of the penthouse suite of the Hilton, both hands holding on to the edge as he puffed on a cigar, staring at the stars glittering in the dark night sky, pondering the events that had led him here.


    Greed? Something so simple? He already had anything a man could buy¡­


    No, not greed, it wasn''t as simple as that.


    Perhaps he was just fed up covering for a playboy who did two minutes of work when forced to stop whoring and drinking for a second - and still managed to outshine him every step of the way.


    His hands curled around the balcony ledge as he bit down on the cigar in agitation, yes¡­ He thought, that''s why¡­


    He was the one running Stark industries, who met with the politicians, who kissed ass, did favors, went golfing with 95 year old congressmen, sacrificed his weekends, his weekdays, his life, on managing a company where he didn''t receive a lick of the credit.


    Was there any articles at all written on how he''d managed to diversify Stark industries from Howard Stark''s few limited interests? How he''d kept the lights on, kept things ticking to give Tony the money and time to get settled as the company golden goose?


    Tony had taken him for granted. Had never once thought or cared enough to ask, or even wondered if Obadiah had enjoyed those many long weekends schlepping across the country so that he could have benders, once in a while delivering a product that was actually able to be marketed.


    No one but him knew just how much Tony actually created. He let out a huff of amusement, eyes crinkling as he grinned with the cigar in his mouth. Except 90 percent of it is either too pricey to anyone but the top 1 percent - or completely impossible to produce on an industrial scale¡­ It would be funny if it wasn''t so damn¡­ Infuriating, his grin died as he thought of all the prototypes wasted on flighty dreams of fancy, on the projects that got deemed impossible.


    On all the possible or impossible projects that could have been picked up, that Tony had refused to touch because they''d been Howard''s¡­


    He bit right though his cigar, frowning in annoyance as he discarded it over the edge, turning back to the interior, impossible projects like the arc reactor¡­ God damn Justin Hammer could do it - so Tony could have as well the useless genius!


    The thrice damned Ten Rings weren''t answering his calls after sending that damn video - so he didn''t even know if the brat was alive or about to pop up and make life very uncomfortable. Just to be safe he''d deleted absolutely everything and even replaced the damn servers, expensive as it was - he wasn''t taking any chances with his legacy, no one would wrest Stark - soon to be Stane - industries from him.


    No one.


    Especially Tony fucking Stark.


    He couldn''t take any chances¡­


    "So, we agree on the price then?" Obadiah said, showing just a hint of his annoyance at the delay.


    The fact his guest had to call someone, ( someone he wasn''t aware of) to make the decision, sat ill with him, but he needed to move on this issue now. He had a bad feeling Tony was still alive, why else would the terrorists stop talking to him? And he was uncomfortably aware just what Tony was capable of if push came to shove.


    He needed to move now, before it was too late. And if an investigation came? Well he''d already covered his tracks either way.


    Dmitri Smerdyakov smiled, putting his phone down, "The terms are acceptable to my employer." He said firmly.


    Obadiah grinned darkly.


    <hr>

 Chapter 12: Minions, Friends, Lovers?

    £ª£ª£ª


    Kairo, Egypt, one week after Wakanda¡¯s defeat at the Suez.


    ¡° - the amazing restoration of the Suez Canal in a joint venture between Hammer industries and Pym technologies shocked the world, and sent markets soaring - as the Suez not only shaved years of its projected restoration, but in its restoration, showed remarkable technologies on display that caught the markets attention. This showing has investors salivating at the opportunity that a non Hammer owned company might actually have shares available on the open market, a common gripe lately as the privately owned businesses under the Hammer umbrella continues to be unavailable-¡±


    A click of the remote and the TV channel changed, two extremely photogenic news anchors, with fake Hollywood smiles, beaming at the camera, ¡°And we''re back! We were discussing with our panel of experts about the impact of the revelation in Egypt, where Justin Hammer was the first one to successfully defeat a Wakandan surprise attack. What do you think about the events, Jack?¡±


    ¡°Well Melanie¡­¡± The other anchor paused delicately for effect, before flashing a wide bleached smile at the camera,¡°I think, first of all, that it''s ironic that the man who suffered the first attack by these terrorist savages - was also the first one to destroy them, it continues the pattern of success we''ve recen- ¡°


    The TV channel switched over again, showing a small gathering of mostly obese men and women in ball caps, waving handwritten signs and screaming profanities outside the Texas Arc reactor property, watched over by Hammer Industries security forces, all of them armed with energy rifles.


    An electrified fence separating the two forces further, local law enforcement on site to keep the protestors well back from the property line.


    ¡°I''m here with the leader of the protestors, a man they call Doc Tiny,¡± A stern-faced reporter in a suit said calmly, looking severely out of place amongst the sweaty crowd. ¡°Doc Tiny, what is it that you are aiming for here?¡± He thrust the mic towards the protestor.


    The camera swiveled to a red cheeked 400 plus pound man with a scraggly white beard, who beamed at the camera, showing a smile painfully lacking in teeth, ¡°Weeellll, you see, we all ain''t stupid, when them machine men popped up, we all knew Hammer was the devil''s get you see? He''s making them here machine men in this fecking react-¡±


    The TV was quickly switched to another channel which was followed with a groan of disgust, ¡°Americans¡­¡± Bakshi said with a sneer from where he was sitting on the couch, working on a laptop, only half paying attention to the nonsense.


    Brock Rumlow, holding the remote lazily, feet propped up on the table next to the laptop, just scoffed, ¡°Yeah, fucking Americans.¡± He agreed, poking fun or just stirring shit as usual, who knew? He idly turned off the TV, though.


    With how Frank was suddenly glaring at the two, his campaign of being as annoying as possible was working. For all that the two were practically joined at the hip due to their positions, they seemed to have a real love/hate relationship going on, Justin thought.


    There really hadn''t been anything new on the TV that hadn''t already been said over the past week.


    Justin blew out a tired breath, they''d been going at it all morning¡­ ¡°Minions, behave¡± He warned, fingers flying over the keyboard as he worked, surrounded by most of his team.


    They''d taken over Kairo¡¯s finest hotel, Justin just straight up buying it to prevent any hassles from the staff about storing the suits of armor with them.


    It also made it so no pesky neighbors were around to ask questions if they overheard something they shouldn''t. Killing random civilians wasn''t necessarily difficult, but it oh so complicated the whole keeping under the radar as a supervillain business.


    Originally he''d planned to make his central African headquarters either in Johannesburg or somewhere more central, that''s why he''d placed Frank and Brock in Somalia, in case Wakanda made a breakthrough heading southwards.


    As unlikely as that was.


    It had also kept the two out of his hair. A benefit he recently realized was worth its own weight in gold.


    But with everything that had just happened, his plans changed rapidly, as they have been doing for a while as the world evolved. The Egyptian government was folding over itself to be accomodating, and with its autocratic nature, he didn''t have to worry about pulling up stakes or spending millions on bribes on silly democratic politicians - it simply made sense to start working here and take advantage of their obeisance.


    But until they had a properly secured building with proper defenses set up, this hotel would have to do. Which had turned the penthouse suite into a work space/hang out area for all his more annoying minions.


    Except Vanko, thank god. The man had disappeared into the basement with his Whiplash armor to tinker some more, parts and tools being shipped in to facilitate turning the garage into a temporary workshop.


    Justin could only take the man in small doses, and preferably from a distance.


    At least he was pretty pliable, just get him vodka and he just continued to crank out improvements to Justin''s plans.


    ¡°I''m the most well behaved man in the world.¡± Brock said with a fake wounded look, before his eyes were drawn away as Elena walked by, his eyes glued on her shapely rear, the man whistling at her like he was a construction worker.


    ¡°Brock¡­¡± Justin said with a hint of warning, feeling irritated, and being irritated that he felt irritated. Elena was his employee, nothing more, but he still wanted to rip the man''s eyes out.


    He''d say something about not touching his things, but it would come out as incredibly sexist, and she wasn''t his anyway, so he kept his mouth shut - but kept his glare on, silently showing Brock not to go there.


    Frank leaned over and slugged Brock hard in the shoulder, ¡°Not the time, dumbass.¡± He grumbled. Out of all of them, he looked the most uncomfortable with being here, in a more social setting than a martial one.


    Always one to look for something physical to do, that guy - not really a talkative guy all things considered. Justin liked him the most out of team HAMMER.


    Honestly if most people only talked when Justin ordered them too, the world would be so much more orderly.


    ¡°Everyone''s no fun¡­¡± Brock sighed, playing with the remote again, but thankfully not turning the TV back on again. All the channels were the same, either praising him to high heavens, or screeching about how he was taking over the world.


    Well¡­ Those ones were right, in a way. But they were still fairly annoying to listen to. They were like sheep, bleating loudly after the wolf had already taken over the sheep farm and installed its pack as the herders - they were bleating too little, too late.


    Elena dropped a small plate of beautifully prepared aperitifs next to Justin''s desktop, leaning in slightly over his shoulder, distracting Justin briefly from his work as her hair tickled his cheek, ¡°Sir, you have recieved twenty three requests for a meeting from General Ross in the last two hours.¡± She murmured, ¡°As well, Eileen has requested a call, Dr Cho and Hansen both have updates on their projects as well, how would you like me to proceed?¡±


    Justin appreciated her application of subtlety, as Frank and Brock didn''t really need to know too much about any of his projects to be effective at their jobs, but he didn''t really have anywhere else to put them right now either. He pursed his lips, staring with unseeing eyes at the computer screen as he pondered what he had time for and what he didn''t, and admittedly, enjoying the closeness of his personal assistant.


    He noticed the rose water scent, a change from her usual shampoo, reminding him of Hope. It was a funny little coincidence, and a scent he found he enjoyed. What were the odds his personal assistant would switch shampoo to Hopes favored brand anyway?


    Funny how coincidences worked like that.


    ¡°Tell Ross, he''ll have to come to me, or wait until I''m back in the states, face to face only, I''m not doing any negotiations on this over the phone.¡± Justin said slowly, quietly, before ticking off each task one by one. ¡°Tell Eileen that unless she''s got an update that meaningfully changes anything - keep it to an email right now - I''m much too busy for a, nothing has changed, but I''m worried, phone call¡­¡± He trailed off, practically feeling Elena making mental notes as she hummed an assent in his ear.


    Shivering just slightly at the feeling, he thought about Cho and Hansen, eying the mass amount of work in front of him. ¡°Cho and Hansen¡­ Look over the reports, if it''s simply status updates with no real breakthrough, take care of it, if something has actually gone very wrong or very right, forward it to me.¡±


    He''d look it over in that case, he was trying not to crowd the two scientists, they did better work without any distractions. As for Ross, it was beyond obvious what he wanted - so he could fly out, or goddamn wait.


    It''s not like the man can get it anywhere else, so he was entirely dependent on what Justin felt like doing.


    Justin expected him to be in Kairo by morning, because patience was not something Thunderbolt Ross had in great abundance. He sighed, briefly adding to his instructions to Elena, ¡°And ensure we have somewhere private and secure for Pentagon level discussions for tomorrow morning, coordinate with Sunil¡­¡± He trailed off as the peanut gallery piped up.


    ¡°Look at how cute they are.¡± Brock said, sneering slightly, ¡°It''s disgusting in a way, no one should have to see their boss flirt.¡± He sounded grumpy at having his fun interrupted, such a stark difference from the professional he could be once the chips were down.


    Frank and Bakshi both turned towards him, Bakshi inclining his head as their eyes met, letting Frank handle things. He was more well suited to it than Bakshi anyway.


    Even if it was hilarious to watch Bakshi speak down to someone in a very British way - that never outright insulted them, but left them feeling like they were nothing but pond scum.


    ¡°You, me, boxing ring. Now.¡± Frank said harshly, grabbing the other man by the arm and pulling him up from the couch.


    Brock grinned widely, ¡°Hell yeah, now we''re talking!¡± Smacking his fists together, following an exasperated Frank, as the rest of them watched the men leave the penthouse, heading towards the hotel gym.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Frank and Brock,


    Frank kept one hand on Brock''s shoulder as they left the penthouse suite, nodding seriously at the heavily armed men that guarded the door and hallway; he knew they''d have people on the roof as well, and snipers nests set up in the surrounding buildings.


    He didn''t know the rest of the security as they compartmentalized the info, which he couldn''t help but approve of. As the two heavy hitters, he and Brock were more likely to see battle, and possibly face capture and interrogation - albeit not a great likelihood, but the possibility was there.


    It felt good working with professionals, which is why it rankled him so much when Brock decided to act foolishly. Especially as he knew the man could turn it on like the switch of a button, so why did he choose to be such a frustrating man?


    They entered the elevator, Frank stabbing the button for floor three, the one with a fully stocked gym, including a small area set aside specifically for boxing. ¡°What is your problem?¡± He ground out, as the little lights ticked down towards the third floor, his face serious as he glared at Brock''s back.


    Brock looked back over his shoulder, an impertinent grin on his face, ¡°Hah!¡± He scoffed, ¡°You really don''t see it, Jarhead?¡±


    Frank frowned minisculely, giving Brock a light shove, ¡°See you acting like an ass, making us look bad in front of the boss.¡± He muttered.


    Brock shook his head, laughing under his breath as the elevator dinged, the doors opening to the third floor. ¡°Man, I don''t do anything without a reason, Frank, you should have more faith.¡± Brock said as they both stepped out of the elevator, walking down the hallway, shoulder to shoulder.


    Frank eyed him out of the corner of his eye, Brock''s casual expression and easy gait showing a man completely at peace with himself, he scowled, ¡°Faith is for god and family, got no faith in anyone else.¡±


    Brock clapped a strong hand on his shoulder, stopping him just before they''d reach the gym, ¡°Sure you do, bud, you got faith in yourself, and you got faith in me, right?¡±


    Seeing Frank''s serious face, Brock chuckled, releasing his hold on his shoulder, clapping it lightly a few times, ¡°Silence can be hurtful, Jarhead.¡±


    ¡°What is your problem, why are you causing issues?¡± Frank persisted. This job had given his family surety, not only in money, but in protecting Frank from dying, protecting his family from dying, he refused to screw it up, ever!


    The life of a soldier was always hazardous, and if he died and failed to come back¡­ A veterans pension wasn''t the future he''d envisioned for his family¡­ His boss had changed that future. If Frank died now, it didn''t matter much, because anything killing him - was probably blowing up the planet anyway.


    Brock eyed him seriously, wearing a half grin, ¡°Ah, you really don''t see it do you?¡± He sighed, leaning against the wall, next to the entrance to the gym, ¡°Alright, here is how it is, Jarhead¡­


    He pointed to the ceiling, ¡°Those people up there, they take life way too seriously, they''re well functioning sociopaths, and you can''t let those kinds of people get too used to life, gotta shake em up a bit, annoy them, tease them.¡±


    Frank snorted, giving Brock a look filled with skepticism, ¡°So what? You''re just doing them a favor is all?¡±


    Brock grinned slightly savagely, ¡°Nah, I''m also a right bastard, and I enjoy it.¡± He sobered up, rubbing his chin with one hand, the other crossed under his elbow, ¡°That said, it doesn''t invalidate what I said, you can''t let those people get too stuck in with just their regular circle, people like us need to shake ''em up once in a while.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Frank muttered, still not entirely buying it, but it also didn''t sound entirely like bullshit either.


    ¡°Trust me.¡± Brock said seriously, ¡°Those kinds of people get into too much of a routine, they''ll start making plans to blow up the moon.¡± He let that thought settle for a few moments before he clapped his hands together, ¡°Right, let''s beat the shit out of each other!¡± And he opened the door to the gym, slipping inside.


    Frank sighed, not really one for these deep thoughts about his bosses, as long as they did him and his right, he didn''t much care what else they were doing.


    The moon never did anything for him anyway.


    He followed Brock into the gym. Now¡­Beating that smartass up - was something he could get behind any day.


    It was pure catharsis.


    £ª£ª£ª


    With the others, as Frank and Brock left the suite.


    Domino snorted, sauntering over to sink down on the couch, taking the spot the men vacated, putting her feet in Bakshi''s lap, the man simply sighed and returned to work, all too used to Domino''s house cat behavior.


    Justin sometimes wondered if a spray bottle would work on the woman, but with her luck powers, he''d probably only end up dumping the bottle on himself, so he''d never tried.


    ¡°You need to find those two some work, boss. Rumlow is practically worthless without some action to throw him in¡­¡± Domino stated, wiggling her toes at Bakshi, earning another long, drawn out sigh, as the Indian man devoted one hand to a foot rub, even as he continued to type with the other.


    Justin probably wasn''t paying the man enough considering he was basically doing several CEO¡¯s worth of work at a time, and giving foot rubs apparently¡­ He gave Domino a stern admonishing look, which only earned him a shit eating grin, no more than he expected really.


    Well¡­ The man was hardly a wallflower, if he had any problems with it, he wouldn''t be doing it, so Justin left it alone.


    Elena stepped away from Justin, already typing away replies to the requests Justin had given, but as the superior multitasking machine she was, she also took in what Domino said, parsed it, came up with a solution and presented it to Justin, all within a minute, ¡°Sir, you were investigating the potential of a rescue operation in Afghanistan, it''s a high profile event that could do well in giving the Scorpion and Vulture armor both - exposure and more experience.¡± She suggested.


    Justin grimaced at the thought of adding the two of them to Rhodes efforts, and even more at just the idea of personally rescuing Tony Stark, ahead of schedule even. However, it looked like it might be necessary, the Mandarin reveal made him suspicious of the Ten Rings in Afghanistan¡­ ¡°Make it so, Elena, just them though, Vanko has more important things to do then traipse through the desert.¡±


    He really needed to find the man some competent helpers¡­


    Justin snorted wryly to himself, there''s a lot that needs to be done¡­


    ¡°Sir.¡± Elena bobbed her head in acquiescence, turning to go back to her own laptop, to begin arranging things, as well as finish off the tasks he''d already set for her.


    Her workload probably eclipsed that of any PA - even Pepper Potts, so really, he should probably give her another raise, as ridiculous as it was to keep doing that every week.


    ¡°I should get a bonus, you know.¡± Domino interjected, spread out on the couch like a cat, a cheshire grin on her face, ¡°I hired you the best little minion.¡± She cooed, looking over at Elena, ¡°She''s cute, a super multitasker, knows how to fight, and well¡­¡± She waggled her eyebrows suggestively, ¡°You''ve already tasted all the other benefits¡­¡±


    ¡°Domino¡­¡± Elena sighed, a slight pinkish tinge to her face as she walked over to the opposite couch, sinking down in front of her own laptop, ¡°Don''t be embarrassing.¡± She chided with a small glare, utterly ineffective against Domino, who only grinned harder.


    Bakshi sighed again, meeting Justin''s eyes, doesn''t matter which grouping of them there is, there''s always this¡­ He seemed to be able to project mentally, and Justin could only agree.


    They were highly effective, intelligent and skilled people, but the way they constantly argued or needled each other just for fun, did tend to get annoying. They also all had massive egos in their own ways.


    Justin had no idea where they''d picked up such habits from.


    He focused back on the task at hand, stretching out his fingers. The contracts were pouring in from everywhere, he was literally being drowned in a wave of money as everyone clambered over each other to outbid one another for who got arc reactors first, who would get Panacea clinics first..


    He already had tens of billions of dollars worth of military contracts inked with more on the way - almost illegally fast compared to the usual process.


    Innovation hath his benefits.


    Or the fact he was selling to everyone had them rushing to be first and sparing no expense.


    Thank you Wakanda¡­


    So now¡­ Money was after all pretty much useless just sitting around. His glasses glinted with the reflection of the computer screen as he concentrated on his research.


    How best to spread his dominance around the globe?


    That was the question¡­


    £ª£ª£ª


    Hours later,


    Domino was gone, having gone to bed - letting the night shift security take over guarding the penthouse.


    Justin sometimes dumped business work on her as well, as she was frightfully intelligent for all of her efforts to seem otherwise - and Domino had quickly escaped upon realizing the amount of work she might face.


    He didn''t know if that made her more intelligent, or just lazy.


    Bakshi, Elena and Justin were still working, even at the late hour, the moon shining down on them through the open balcony, the sound of Kairo¡¯s nightlife reaching them as background noise, a pleasant breeze coming in from the balcony, invigorating them.


    They''d all gotten more comfortable after awhile, Justin divesting himself of his suit jacket and tie, as had Bakshi, while Elena had slid off her heels to go barefoot, as they all worked at separate screens, only briefly pausing to make phone calls or ask a question of one another.


    This was the true brain trust of Hammer Industries right now, one he needed to expand, but for now, it suited his purposes at a time he couldn''t afford the chance of anyone screwing up any of his plans¡­


    His businesses were proceeding even better than planned.


    Energy¡­ One working Arc reactor was able to, on its own, take over the work of a third of the state of Texas energy production - if running at maximum capacity with Justinium reactors instead of Palladium. Not surprisingly, that had drawn attention.


    His construction company was already growing into the world''s first truly global construction firm, hiring at a rapid pace, especially in Africa, the company was already contracted to build over 200 Arc reactors, and that was just the Mexico-USA-Canada sector of the world.


    Even at the expansion rate they were growing at, it would take over a decade to outfit the western world and Africa fully, not even mentioning the rest of the world, which would balloon that number somewhat unless he could subsume a lot of the other construction companies worldwide.


    Which was a possibility.


    From his estimates, they''d need to hire over a million people over the next year to even have a chance of meeting all the grunt level construction goals, not to mention the actual sensitive bits that would need expert engineers - there weren''t enough of them right now.


    Not with rebuilding Africa on the table together with all the Arc reactor construction.


    So Energy and Construction was already ticking away at world dominance pretty rapidly. Ivan and Anton successfully tested a rediscovered Roman blend of concrete in the last few days - which would greatly increase their construction company''s reputation and rate of orders, something which would make that dominance even more obvious.


    And of course as proprietary knowledge at the moment, it would ensure that any other construction companies could only use it at a premium¡­ Which would neatly raise their prices, allowing him to undercut them with clients, hopefully buying as many of them out as possible to add their experience and expertise to his growing multinational.


    As for military orders¡­ Just with what he had already, he could count on over 100 billion in orders this year, if the projections were accurate. And that was from the United States military alone, as they replaced their tanks, armored vehicles, armor and weapons with HammerTech.


    Plus the field hospitals they''d ordered for Panacea and the salaries for paying his staff to run them - since he refused to let Panacea out of his hands at any time.


    The fact he was selling to other countries, (and with the benefit of his political connections) it had propelled the military budget enough to accomodate the expenditure to ensure America wasn''t left behind. And it wasn''t even counting how much he could possibly milk them by teasing eventual power suits to them - which was why Ross was screeching at him.  Just now, he alone was ? of the military budget, a ridiculous amount. Luckily the budget increase had passed through Congress before they were a crater.


    Add in power armor¡­ That figure would get much higher¡­ High enough that the United States government would do pretty much anything to appease him¡­


    The phones, tablets and watches from his Tech division were selling faster than even he had anticipated, with no competitor managing to match his telecommunications prices, nor his electronics utility and advanced features - compared to the competition, they were the only name right now.


    The battery life alone was driving consumers to his products, not having to constantly carry chargers around was a convenience people were willing to pay for.


    Offering barebones prices for phone plans and data plans as he was - as long as it was paired with HammerTech - would make his telecommunications company lose money for the near future, but make billions in profit once he had cornered a large majority of the market.


    Others may match his technological advantage soon enough, or in the case of Stark, fly above his products - but if his market share was already huge, and tied to the low phone plans, he''d stay ahead anyway.


    People placed a high value on affordability, so with cheap plans, and expensive phones, he''d get the best of both worlds, the desirable new expensive gadget considered high end - and the cheap plan that made everyone buy them together.


    He''d have to continue to grease the wheels of politics of course, or he''d face several lawsuits for his business practices for his attempts to create monopolies in most everything.


    Any judge looking to actually pull the trigger on that would have some severe consequences coming their way.


    He was still working on the EU, using Britain as a patsy to shatter their silly ideas about monopolies and antitrust laws.


    Note to self, schedule a meeting with the prime minister as soon as possible.


    ¡­Ugh, he hated that man, but what can you do?


    Note to self, ruin him?


    Is that too much?


    He''ll sleep on it.


    ¡­


    Anyways,


    Once his health clinics were fully operational, he''d be the only name in healthcare that really mattered, that alone would give him enough billions to finance all the rest of his businesses even if they weren''t all money makers on their own - that''s how crazy profitable it was to be the only name in healthcare.


    Already he had hundreds of the clinics up and running, and a dozen more opening a day, having prioritized HammerHealth above all else - the good PR from them couldn''t be discounted. It was very hard for politicians to push against his growth when the public saw him as the second coming.


    ¡­


    There were actual cults around him, Domino had shown him the articles. He might have to stamp those out, because they''d likely create problems down the road. Cults never behave rationally - and he''d get the bad press over the wackos holding up a school or something.


    They could also serve as throw away patsies if he needed someone silenced in a flashy absolutely moronic way that would obviously have nothing to do with him.


    ¡­.


    Anyways,


    With his insurance company rapidly expanding to the only true worldwide insurance conglomerate - following the clinics and the rabid attention they gathered¡­ And with him in the process of poaching the best and brightest from all over the entire industry while he was at it - he was truly on his way to becoming a mega corporation.


    But there was no need to rest on his laurels. There was still much to do, and he''d spent the last few hours researching his next targets.


    He wanted world domination, where he literally could not be removed, or the world would shatter. Forcing the heroes to accept him even if he did the cackling supervillain thing - because the cost of his removal would be too much.


    The first one on the list was Amazon, they weren''t nearly the giant yet that they''d become, and had only something around 20 000 employees, only turning a profit over the last couple years. He''d give a generous offer, and if that got refused. Well¡­ He had other means.


    The HammerMarketplace or H-Market would be the one stop shopping place for the world after he rebranded, he already knew exactly how to grow the company after all, and intended to move ahead with their grocery delivery plans long before they would have even thought of it... The idea of removing the grocery store from the equation and with it, all those expensive thefts, employees and other annoying costs.


    And instead they would move to having food warehouses, where online orders would be placed and they would simply either be picked up on site by customers or delivered to their home¡­ It was a game changer that would drop like a bomb in the market - his competition wouldn''t be prepared.


    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    They didn''t even have the framework for such a thing yet - the great delivery age not quite existing yet, they''d be left behind at the onset, and Justin would not allow them to catch up.


    The convenience of it all didn''t exist yet, but he''d make it into reality, and the whole world would thank him, even as he dug his influence into everything from their phones, to their insurance and their healthcare, to their food.


    Going further down the path of convenience, Uber wasn''t a thing yet, so he''d usurp them before they could come onto the stage. His fingers flew deftly across the keyboard as he drafted a business plan and the necessary information to begin the motions.


    HDelivery or H+ would be the services provided, split between food delivery to a convenience level that ¡®conveniently¡¯ didn''t exist yet either - and the taxi replacement ride service that wasn''t really profitable, but Justin could tweak it a bit, if he even felt he needed to - profitability wasn''t the key here, it would be a bonus, but the key was to saturate every market with his name, his products.


    He already had his huge moneymakers, the rest was just gravy if it ran a profit.


    Finishing up with the barebones of the plan, he sent the email off to Elena and Bakshi, letting them begin the process of contacting the necessary people and set the wheels in motion.


    Elena briefly snorted, covering her mouth with a hand as she received her copy of the email, both Justin and Bakshi glancing at her, somewhat looking alike with their raised eyebrows and politely enquiring faces.


    ¡°Sorry.¡± She apologized, waving her other hand, still letting loose a giggle from her covered mouth. She let her hand down, showing an amused smile, ¡°You really like putting your name on things, sir.¡± She said tongue in cheek, grinning at him as Bakshi coughed, turning away to hide a grin himself.


    Justin crossed his arms as he leaned back in his comfortable massage chair, ¡°It''s to get a point a cross.¡± He said, somewhat defensively.


    Also, no one would ever disparage the name Hammer again¡­


    Elena''s lips twitched, ¡°I for one look forward to one day going to a food court and getting a McHammer for lunch.¡± She said, barely holding it together, failing to hold it when Bakshi unexpectedly started laughing, Elena falling into giggles.


    Justin just sighed exasperatedly, giving his minions a mock glare, ¡°Please, like I''d take over that chain¡­¡± But his expression grew calculating as he began thinking of how to enter that market in a logical way to get full name penetration in all markets.


    ¡°Oh my god¡­ He''s actually thinking about it.¡± Elena said quietly to Bakshi.


    Bakshi gave her a long-suffering look, although his lips were still twitching, ¡°Please refrain from giving sir any more ideas, we already have a lot to do as is.¡±


    Justin ignored them for a moment, pulling up the research he''d done over the last hour, another step in a plan to become utterly indispensable to daily life.


    He''d steal an Elon Musk idea¡­ The everything app. It wouldn''t of course be everything, but he''d mix enough in there to get the majority of people who''d use such things - on there.


    He''d buy up YouTube and Netflix, (which was barely a year into streaming) and combine the two, slap a small subscription fee on, nothing too outrageous - and add in a twitter copy, and the future craze that was TikTok to boot.


    He sent his brief outline to his minions, rolling around on his chair, watching them expectantly as they read it.


    ¡°Sir¡­ Social media? Must we?¡± Bakshi asked, with a pained grimace.


    Justin rolled his eyes at him, not sure if he was pleased or annoyed that despite telling these two in particular that they could call him Justin - they persisted in avoiding it. It was weird he wanted their obedience and show of respect, at the same time as it annoyed him that they weren''t more personal and relaxed.


    He should have figured Bakshi was the kind of snob who looked down on social media, however, the normally intelligent man allowing prejudice to blind him to how incredibly useful it was. It practically drove the entire narrative for millions of people that would become addicted to it, millions that already were.


    And they''d use a H-phone to log into it, going online through his apps, ordering food through his businesses. Benefitting him every step of the way¡­


    Elena gave the proposal a critical gaze, shaking her head, the blonde''s ponytail swishing in the air, ¡°It''s more complicated than I like, sir, can you explain your thought process?¡±


    Justin smirked superiorly, feeling quite smug, ¡°It''s simple, it will be the everything app, Netflix bought for the streaming of any and all shows and movies, YouTube for everything else and the non professionals, twitter so that people can tweet on the app - while also using it while watching or making videos - in real time, the TikTok I mention in there, being like a devilish spawn of twitter, Instagram and YouTube, primarily marketed for the younger generations.¡± He pursed his lips thoughtfully, ¡°We can probably throw in the food delivery app and a PayPal equivalent in there as well, separate all the separate functions in a sensible but easily accessible way so it''s not clunky - but allowing for a simple swipe or push to access what they want.¡±


    ¡°Simple, he says.¡± Bakshi said, staring at Elena looking for support, if anything looking even more pained at the prospect of entering into the social media sphere than he had at the prospect of being tortured as a HYDRA agent. ¡°Hardly any of that sounded simple, sir¡­¡±


    Elena nodded, looking skeptical but thoughtful, ¡°It could work,¡± She said hesitantly, ¡°But no one will pay for all those services.¡±


    Justin waved away any thoughts on costs.


    He''d never have to worry about getting the kind of streaming competition Netflix got, because his price point would be too low, especially with all the extras he''d have in one single app. With his technologies, on his phones and electronics, he''d pull it off and make it viable to work, by the time he''d finish creating the new everything app.


    And he didn''t even need specialists like Vanko, because all of this could be done with normal people working at it hard, especially with all the extra processing power and tech he could afford to give them for the job.


    It would run on a complete loss indefinitely, he''d price it that cheaply, because the intent was to get almost everyone on it. If it was free that would work too, but would draw just as much scrutiny on why and how it was free. So a small fee would do, just enough for there to be payments, but not enough to truly hold anyone back from getting it.


    ¡°It''s not meant to make money, it''s meant to give me influence, to corner the market and he the big name in, to control the narrative, especially in America.¡± Justin explained, liking the idea the more he thought about it.


    Once he got the AI up and running¡­ This app would allow him to practically know every human on the planet - down to what underwear they like to buy. The amount of data he''d take in everyday would be incredible.


    He''d already be inside every phone with his satellite network once he had his AI for overwatch, with this app under his belt as well - forget SHIELD, he alone would get more information in a day than they pulled in a year.


    He thought about it as he continued the research, Twitter was also fairly new still, so it would probably be cheaper to just get it than to create his own, ¡°Elena, I have a new task for you.¡± He said, turning towards his personal assistant, who raised her head inquisitively. ¡°Netflix, YouTube, Twitter, PayPal, explore opportunities to buy, I want priority on this.¡±


    Elena nodded, making some notes as she pursed her lips thoughtfully, she cocked her head, eying him with what he thought might be anticipation, ¡°How far am I allowed to go?¡± She asked eagerly.


    Justin thought about it, leaning back in his chair again, ¡°Heh, give them three times their companies value, that should be enough, if they''re looking like they''re just holding out for an increase¡­ Go four times as a last resort.¡±


    ¡°And if they refuse?¡± Elena asked, her lips parting as she licked them, seemingly without noticing, as she looked about ready to pounce on something, Bakshi giving her a look as if reevaluating her.


    Justin gave her a weird look as well, but chalked it down to the long hours they''d been having, of course she''d be excited for something new, ¡°Now I know this isn''t exactly your wheelhouse, but if they refuse¡­¡± Justin shrugged lightly, waving a hand dismissively, ¡°Then blackmail them, if they don''t have anything spectacular about them, then make some blackmail or arrange a situation, just get me those companies..¡±


    It would be a nice test of just how versatile she really was as well, he believed them both to be loyal, and even if he was still having Domino check Bakshi now and then - he honestly believed the man was entirely on his side, he just subscribed to trust but verify, even amongst his most loyal.


    Elena had proven exceptionally skilled in every manner so far, so he wanted to see what she could really do when let loose, and it would also allow him to figure her out a little, what made her work so hard for him, where her ambitions might lay.


    The more he knew about his minions, the easier he could predict them. Betrayal was after all so much more costly if done by someone in the inner circle.


    Elena practically bounced in her seat as she chirped out, ¡°Yes, sir!¡± Sounding very excited at the opportunity to blackmail people. She tapped away at her laptop for a moment, before glancing his way, a palpable aura of excitement around her, ¡°Rules of engagement? How far am I allowed to go, sir?¡±


    Justin looked at her oddly, sharing a glance with Bakshi who simply shook his head, going back to his work, obviously washing his hands of it. ¡°Don''t¡­ Kill anyone or anything, murder draws law enforcement and the media, we don''t want that associated with our takeover¡­¡±


    ¡°Just torture, got it.¡± She said happily, eyes gleaming as she typed away, bare feet practically dancing away on the lush carpet underneath, as Elena seemed to have gained a second wind of sorts.


    Justin opened his mouth to admonish her, because no, torture was also bad for media reasons¡­ But¡­ She looked so excited, he stared at her with an open mouth for a few more moments, before closing it and turning back to his work, she was kidding anyway, he decided.


    It''s just been a long night.


    Besides, she was a saleswoman before taking this job, they were sharks for sure, the business demanded it - but they weren''t that dangerous.


    Not anymore dangerous than a normal woman was anyway. And blackmail was practically part of business school, even if an unspoken one.


    It would work out.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Next morning,


    Domino sometimes felt like she was a bit out of place amongst these people.


    She was carefree, flippant and badass on just a general level - and everyone else were painfully high strung. Not to mention the fact that while she generally thought herself an intelligent woman, she felt slightly dull compared to the people her boss surrounded himself with. Even Eileen just screamed competence and intelligence - while rocking the - I''m too cool for you kids look.


    Her power had always allowed her to kind of let worries take a backseat, as it wasn''t like something bad would really happen. It was strange now, to actually worry. She usually didn''t get attached to jobs. They were just that, jobs.


    But Justin Hammer was changing the world, and promising to bring mutant kind along for the ride, which was¡­ Domino didn''t care about many things, usually finding such things as baggage she didn''t need - but it was hard to pretend she didn''t care about mutant kind getting a break before things really got bad.


    She''d seen a lot of shit working the mercenary scene, and although mutant kind weren''t publicly out yet, that didn''t mean governments or organizations weren''t testing the waters on what they''d found, and usually not in a kind way.


    Domino had run into a few too many poor kids with unfortunate mutations that had met a bad end. Sometimes even by her own guns¡­ She didn''t care about much anymore, but this¡­ This she could care about.


    Which is why she deigned to lower herself to a simple servant, schlepping a cart of breakfast foods and unholy amounts of coffee up to the penthouse suite.


    When she''d gone to bed last night, the three of them up there had been hard at work, and she''d be surprised if they''d taken care of themselves properly. It really seemed the more intelligent someone got, the dumber they got. An oxymoron to be sure, but not wrong either.


    She nodded seemingly pissed off, as one of the security guards stopped her and searched the food, and her. As annoying as getting frisked so heavily it constituted petting was - it was her own and Eileen''s protocol, no one went up to see Justin without a search, even his own people. Especially his own people¡­


    Domino had worked enough jobs to know an assassination attempt almost always happened from someone in the inner circle once security got too tight for conventional means - whether through bribery, hostages, mind control or any number of situations, it''s how it usually went. So there would be no slacking off.


    Not while she was on the job, which on its own was amusing in a way - as slacking off was one of her favorite things to do.


    She let out a minor huff of annoyance as she readjusted herself a bit, her bra having moved slightly during that heavy frisk. She gave the guy a glare that made him gulp, even as she moved onwards with the food and drink, idly reminding herself to send the captain of the team a note to praise that guy - even at the sight of her annoyance he still followed through all the way.


    She didn''t bother to knock as she entered the penthouse suite, figuring they''d all be in the bedrooms anyway, snoozing away after staying up half the night.


    She came to a stop just over the threshold, sighing loudly, not believing what she could see, while admitting to herself that it was all too believable. ¡°Boss¡­ Sleep is actually important, you know¡­¡±


    Scratch half the night, the idiot she worked for had apparently pulled an all nighter¡­


    Justin was sitting on the couch, a laptop precariously propped up on a pair of pillows, as he typed away furiously, the reason for the awkward position being the sleeping Elena, cuddled into his lap.


    From how stone cold she was out, Domino wouldn''t be surprised if she''d worked into the early hours as well, at least she''d had the sense to actually get some sleep¡­ Her eyes swept to the other couch where Bakshi was as unsheveled as she''d ever seen him, curled into a ball with a sheet tossed over him, dead to the world as well.


    Seriously, these people¡­


    Domino let loose another sigh, Justin not even answering or acknowledging her comment. She rubbed her forehead, not managing to keep back a slight laugh at it all, what a situation I''m in, never thought I''d be a babysitter instead of a big bad mercenary¡­


    She rolled the cart in closer, opening up the coffee carafes and the cloches covering the food, smirking as Justin jerked to, eyes drawn to the coffee. She wagged a finger at him, ¡°Nuh-uh, food maybe, but no coffee, you need sleep, boss.¡±


    ¡°I have a meeting with General Ross this morning.¡± Justin said firmly, shaking his head while making a gimme motion with one of his hands, directed at the coffee.


    Domino didn''t move, crossing her arms as she stared back at him with bemusement, ¡°Sure, I''m almost positive the general will love meeting you while you''re dead on your feet and liable to agree to anything he says.¡±


    Justin frowned, opening his mouth to argue, when he let out a hiss, having been poked in the ribs by Elena, who glared up at him sleepily. ¡°What the hell?¡± He asked, rubbing at his red eyes, pushing his glasses up onto his forehead.


    ¡°No meee-etings.¡± Elena tried to act stern, but the massive yawn in the middle of the sentence just made her look like a cute little animal burrowed into its nest. Domino quickly brought up her phone and snapped a picture, getting both of them to snap their heads in her direction, with matching sleep deprived glares.


    So cute!


    ¡°This is adorable.¡± Domino said, smirking at the two of them, waving her phone tantalizingly in front of them, ¡°Now if you don''t want this posted for everyone to see, eat breakfast and then go to bed!¡± She ordered, pointing at Justin specifically.


    Her boss had too much power now, they definitely could not afford to have him make decisions while loopy. They might invade Australia or something.


    Domino had nothing against Australians, per say - but if she was going to be conquering any countries on Justin''s behalf, it wouldn''t be one where everything in the country wanted to kill you.


    If Domino could pick - it would be the country with the most strippers per capita.


    ¡°General Ro-¡± Justin began, only for Domino to cut him off.


    ¡°Nope!¡± She said cheerfully, ¡°I''m sure the good general will understand the delay in the meeting, he strikes me as the understanding type really.¡± She lied, wiggling a hand towards Elena, ¡°Gimme the number, I''ll call and change the meeting time.¡±


    ¡°Do not!¡± Bakshi moaned from within his sheet, still curled up, but obviously awoken by all the noise, ¡°I can call, give me a minute¡­¡± He groaned, sounding almost hungover.


    Domino eyed the plates and glasses all around with hidden glee, had they gotten drunk? While on the job? She did another once over of Elena and Justin and pouted in disappointment, there weren''t nearly enough signs to suggest they did the nasty. And here she was rooting for her hiree. ¡°Give me your phone, and then go to bed ~ ¡° She called out to Elena.


    Elena seemed to hesitate for one moment, looking at Justin, then the disgruntled Bakshi peeking out of his sheet, before she folded, reaching for her phone and tossing it Domino''s way with a low throw.


    To Domino''s amusement, as she caught the phone, Elena still hadn''t gotten out of Justin''s lap. Although to her slight annoyance, putting a damper on her amusement, her boss was once again typing away at his laptop and seemed unaware of the cuddling. ¡°You didn''t unlock it, what''s the password, cuddlebug?¡±


    Elena tilted her chin up, a rosy tint to her face as she answered, ¡°6969.¡± Her glare practically demanded that Domino kept her mouth shut.


    So of course she didn''t, ¡°Cute.¡± She said, lips twitching slightly at the woman''s tired glare, ¡°How old are you again?¡± That''s so teenager it''s adorable¡­


    ¡°Fuck you, Domino!¡± She bitched without any real heat in it, climbing back into a seated position and leaving Justin''s lap - one hand trying to fix her hair in a lost cause, the blonde hair sticking out everywhere.


    ¡°~Promises¡­¡± Domino sang, already dialing the number, walking just slightly away from the set of couches to give the three grumpy and tired musketeers a chance to regroup, ¡°Oh, and don''t give Justin any coffee!¡± She ordered, backpedaling momentarily to narrow her eyes at them all, two fingers going back and forth in a motion between her eyes and the trio.


    ¡°This is General Ross.¡± A gruff voice answered the phone before she could impress the seriousness in the offense of feeding their boss coffee right now, and she focused on the phone call turning away from the others.


    ¡°Hiya, how you doing?¡± Domino chirped cheerfully, grabbing a biscuit off the food cart and carelessly tossing it over her shoulder. It would work out, things always did.


    ¡°Who is this?¡± Ross asked suspiciously, a brief silence taking over as he double checked the number no doubt, ¡°.... Are you one of Hammer''s people?¡± He sounded doubtful, Domino was hurt, they''d met and everything, how could he forget her!


    Behind her, there was a noise of complaint as her biscuit found its way - by pure chance - to closing Justin''s laptop for him, making her intentions clear - go sleep - or else!


    ¡°You might remember me from such great hits as¡­ ¡°She paused, looking for the words, before pouting, ¡°You know, that analogy doesn''t really work when you''ve only seen me do bodyguard work for Justin.¡± Domino complained lightly, tapping her chin with a finger, ¡°Well, anyways, something important came up and I''m afraid your meeting has been bumped down the list to¡­¡± She looked at her watch critically, it was still early morning¡­¡±Let''s say 2ish, that sounds good to you, right?¡±


    ¡°Now hang on just a min-¡± Ross tried to interject, sounding angry for some reason.


    ¡°It''s a date~¡± Domino sang out cheerfully, ending the call, spinning the phone on one finger as she turned around, ¡°There you go, no meetings now, have something to eat and then bed!¡± God, I really am the babysitter¡­


    Elena walked up and took back her phone in one quick snatch, giving Domino a small glare, which Domino just took in with a wink and a grin. ¡°Sleep well!¡± She told the girl, a more honest smile blooming onto her face, Elena scoffing lightly, but ducking her head to avoid showing the small smile on her face, skipping breakfast entirely to walk off to one of the bedrooms.


    Domino turned around, pleased and annoyed that Bakshi as well was skipping the breakfast that she''d been professionally molested for to bring up - the man also heading straight for a bedroom.


    Her shoulders slumped slightly as she noticed that Justin had opened his laptop up again, and had somehow grabbed a cup of coffee during the short interval she hadn''t watched him. Quick as lightning she tossed another biscuit at him, spilling the coffee onto the couch, missing Justin''s crotch by inches, before the biscuit bounced up and knocked the laptop off its precarious position, knocking it to the floor.


    ¡°That is important, you could have broken it!¡± Justin protested, jumping to his feet to avoid the growing coffee spill on the couch. ¡°I could have been finishing up a billion dollar deal, you know?¡±


    Domino scoffed, crossing her arms again as she stared down the giant man child, ¡°I wanted it out of the way without damages, so it is, you got nothing to worry about, boss.¡± She considered her statement, her smirk turning dangerous as she fingered one of her gun holsters, ¡°Well¡­ You have nothing to worry about as long as you sleep¡­¡± She casually threatened.


    Eileen needs to come back, it''s too annoying to be the mean one instead of the laidback one. She thought briefly.


    Justin grumbled the entire way, but wisely left the laptop behind, instead of trying to sneak it into the bedroom.


    Domino looked around, seeing the mess of what might as well have been a trio of college idiots cramming for a test and sighed. ¡°I''m not cleaning this up.¡± She said to the thin air, before looking down at the food laden cart which absolutely no one touched.


    It would be a crime to make all that hard work go to waste, especially as they cooked it while armed men glared at them the entire time, watching them like hawks.


    ¡°Well, might as well, it practically took me out on a first date¡­¡± She muttered, sitting down to enjoy the spread, her senses on full alert, as she now would have three sleeping people to watch out for.


    ¡°God damn babysitter¡­.¡± She muttered, with no real anger behind it as she sat down, taking the entire carafe of steaming hot arabic coffee for herself.


    She was paradoxically happier now than ever before.


    Go figure.


    £ª£ª£ª


    1pm, Kairo, Egypt.


    Justin felt immeasurably better after a few hours of napping and a shower. He felt slightly abashed that he''d forced Elena and Bakshi into an all nighter, for work that would take years to come to fruition, and was in no way an emergency.


    The sudden thought of dominating the social media sector and taking a major chunk out of the internet pie, as well as the food delivery and rideshare sector - had been too tempting, and he''d sunk into almost a fugue state as he kept working on it.


    He tried giving Elena and Bakshi the day off, but as he walked out of his bedroom again, perfectly put together in a fresh Armani suit, he was met by Elena in a cream white dress that left her shoulders bare, the stubborn gaze on her face telling him she would continue to refuse if he offered again.


    Bakshi nodded deferentially at him from the couch, where he was back at work again, dealing with everyday business, having several dozens of high level managers underneath him who themselves had dozens of lower level managers and so on.


    Domino stepped up to them, gun holsters across her waist, with shoulder holsters and thigh holsters completing the look past her tight black bodysuit; it wouldn''t surprise Justin if she had a tiny little peashooter in her boots as well. ¡°All ready boss, Ross is probably going to be a little irritable though, I don''t know why, I was an absolute delight on the phone.¡±


    Justin gave her a dry look, ¡°I wasn''t that sleep deprived that I don''t remember that phone call, Domino, Extremis might not replace sleep, but it allows me to go longer without.¡±


    ¡°Your car is waiting for you, sir. And it appears Hope Van Dyne has unexpectedly shown up in the lobby asking for you.¡± Elena said, tapping away at her phone, a slight scowl on her face, one that was instantly wiped out into a neutral state, once she saw that Justin was looking.


    He wondered briefly what that was about, but asking women what was on their mind was dangerous business


    ¡°Hope is here? What for?¡± Justin asked, before waving a hand, ¡°Nevermind, I''ll just ask her.¡± He decided, walking off, heading out of the penthouse suit with Domino one step behind him and Elena trailing further behind, furiously typing on her phone.


    ¡°Anything I should know about, Elena?¡± Justin asked as they approached the elevator, curious about what she was doing.


    Elena looked up, smiling guilessly, ¡°Oh, just ensuring the security team gives her the same treatment anyone else gets, wouldn''t want to risk it after all.¡±


    Domino coughed, looking amused, as Elena walked into the elevator with a smug feel to her. Justin followed her, not entirely sure what he''d missed, but sure it was something, ¡°Alright, that sounds reasonable, I know better than to argue with my security.¡± Seeing Domino about to open her mouth, he hurriedly added, ¡°Most of the time.¡±


    ¡°You got there just before me.¡± Domino said, snapping her fingers, grinning as she winked at Elena, ¡°Just like the security team got there with Hope - before you could¡­¡±


    Justin looked at her oddly, eyes moving from Domino''s smug and amused attitude to Elena''s suddenly nervous smile, looking at anything but him. ¡°There''s something going on here¡­¡± He mused out loud, the elevator doors opening to the first floor, ¡°I''m watching you two¡­¡± He said, eyes narrowing, before he stepped out into the lobby.


    He wasn''t sure what was going on with those two, but he''d have to ensure there wasn''t any friction or drama being created - he couldn''t afford to lose their competence due to nonsense.


    Seeing as Hope was apparently being searched by his security team, Justin took a seat in the lobby, engaging with Elena on some business matters while he waited. He still had plenty of time before the meeting with Ross, so there wasn''t any need to rush.


    Several minutes later Hope appeared out of a side room, a look of annoyance on her face as she looked around, her eyes flashing as she zeroed in on him. Justin raised a hand in greeting as he stood up, while Hope strode over in several quick strides, wearing much the same local clothing as she had last week.


    ¡°Hope, what a pleasant surprise, it''s great to see you again.¡± Justin said, honestly meaning it too, smiling at Hope, his eyes somewhat hesitant as he noticed her irritation.


    Hope glanced at Elena and Domino, before huffing, looking at him with annoyance clear and present in her visage, one hand cocked on her hip, ¡°I would say it was a pleasure for me as well, Justin.¡± She began dryly, ¡°But considering your security protocol practically goes further than some dates I''ve had - I''m not sure I can say it and mean it.¡±


    Justin snapped his head around to glare at the security team, ¡°Did they now¡­ I am sorry Hope, I will deal with them¡­¡± He promised darkly.


    Domino cleared her throat, ¡°Sorry, sir, but that''s simply protocol, I have to go through the same every time I go up to your suite, so does Elena and Bakshi.¡±


    Justin looked at her in askance, turning to look at Elena who nodded as well. He sighed, straightening his tie, as he turned back towards Hope. ¡°Either way, I apologize, Hope. I''m sure we can make an exception in the future.¡± This was directed towards his minions pointedly, who both nodded quickly.


    Hope''s body language eased up as she straightened slightly, ¡°Ah, well, no real harm done, this time.¡± She narrowed her eyes at Domino and Elena, focusing especially on Elena who seemed particularly closed off, not showing any expression all of a sudden. ¡°Although I wasn''t actually coming up to your suite, so it seemed a little excessive.¡±


    Justin narrowed his eyes in thought, eyeing Elena and Domino out of the corner of his eyes, lips thinning as he noted mentally that the two had likely played a bit of a mean prank on Hope - he''d have to keep an eye out for that stuff, he didn''t want an ally driven off through sheer pettiness.


    ¡°What brings you around today, Hope? Not that you''re not welcome,¡°He hurried to assure her, ¡°You can always call upon me, but surely you didn''t stop by just to catch up?¡± Justin asked, slightly curious at her sudden arrival.


    Wondering if it meant good things for his goals with Pym technologies.


    Hope smirked, ¡°I had a meeting cancel on me suddenly, and I figured it couldn''t hurt to come ask you out for lunch.¡± She raised an inquisitive eyebrow, ¡°I mean if you are available and I''m not interrupting anything?¡±


    Justin chuckled, grasping her hand and lifting it up to press a quick kiss to it, ¡°I''m charmed my lady, although at some point I will have to invite you out, because it is simply unbearable that you keep beating me to the punch!¡±


    ¡°Sir¡­ General Ross?¡± Elena cut in, looking alarmed, and slightly constipated from something, eyes flicking from Hope to him.


    Justin eyed her briefly, ¡°Push him back to four, it''s not like he''s going to leave, he needs me.¡± Justin said dismissively, taking Hope''s hand, ¡°Now that this little misunderstanding has been cleared up, did you have anywhere in mind or do I get to surprise you this time?¡± Justin asked suavely.


    Elena stepped aside pulling out her phone, her face flushed as she stared at the two of them for a moment, before she began dialing, preparing to make excuses to General Ross.


    Hope laughed, seemingly amused about something, like she''d just caught onto something funny, eying Elena. ¡°I''ll let you pick this time, Justin, I''m interested in seeing what you have in store.¡± She said playfully, her phone ringing, interrupting them as she stepped away, holding a finger up, ¡°Just one minute, probably just my father, it won''t take me long.¡±


    Justin waved Domino over as Hope took a few steps away, raising her phone to her ear, ¡°Domino, find me a nice local little spot that only the locals know and eat at, nice rustic little family owned place.¡± He hissed out, having done absolutely nothing to prepare for another meal with Hope, having honestly completely forgotten about her over the last week with everything going on. He wanted to make a good impression on her by reciprocating her excellent choice of locale last time out - but he had no idea about any of that in Kairo.


    Domino snorted, ¡°Sure thing, Boss, I''ll do my best.¡± She promised, giving him a thumbs up, ¡°Maybe my luck will find the perfect spot¡­¡± She said to herself, already pulling her phone out.


    Justin turned to Elena, but found her holding the phone away from her ear, grimacing as someone - likely Ross - yelled at her from the other end of the line. ¡°Elena¡­¡± He said, catching her attention, ¡°Make it tomorrow morning.¡± He said firmly. ¡°No one yells at my people¡­¡±


    Ross can go fuck himself if he thinks he can get away with doing that to MY minions¡­


    Hope returned, sighing as she put her phone away in her purse, ¡°My father is still doing everything to hold back progress.¡± She complained bitterly. ¡°Just another lecture on how I can''t trust anyone, ever, with anything.¡± She said with a helpless shrug.


    Justin knew he could step on a landmine here if he didn''t walk carefully, ¡°He''s just worried about your safety.¡± He said slowly, carefully ¡°I can understand that part, but he could do so much more for the world and for your safety if he just let us collaborate.¡±


    That was considerate enough, right?


    Hope smirked, tossing her hair back as she stepped forward and slid her arm into his, ¡°We''d own the shipping industry.¡± She agreed, seemingly troubled, for all that she carried on with some swagger. ¡°Pym particles could be the biggest game changer since¡­ Well, you.¡± She added, snorting lightly as Justin preened. ¡°I didn''t mean to fluff your ego.¡± She mocked lightly, a small companionable smile on her face.


    Justin walked off with her, heading for the doors, Domino trailing behind - while Elena stood back, looking frustrated as she continued to speak into the phone. ¡°There''s definitely some potential there, shipping is the low hanging fruit, there''s so much more you could do with my backing¡­¡± Justin mused out loud.


    The entire reason he''d been interested in collaborating with Hope had been for the military application. Hank''s fears were clear, and not necessarily wrong. The particles spread over the world like that and being used for shipping or military means, or whatever else they''d find a use for them for - risked someone terrible getting a hold of them.


    Justin was simply more pragmatic, they could ensure only Hammer security handled the use of the particles, which would limit potential theft to supervillains - and honestly, if some of them wanted to steal the statue of liberty or assassinate the president¡­


    Justin saw that as necessary sacrifices for progress. If Earth moved ahead a hundred years in logistics, sciences and military capabilities - was it worth the potentially hundred or thousands who''d die to one bad actor stealing some particles?


    Yes. To Justin it was an obvious and complete yes. He''d sacrifice a country for the opportunity. Maybe not America, but like¡­ Who''d miss Sweden or Norway or something anyway?


    Hope smiled as they exited the hotel, finding Justin''s armored limo waiting for them. ¡°I think beyond those fears he has, he also doesn''t want to upend entire industries¡­ Send hundreds of thousands to unemployment...¡±


    Justin gave her a look, seeing the impish smile on her face, ¡°I see¡­¡± He answered dryly, ¡°That''s a dig at me, right there.¡± He held the door open for Hope, receiving a thankful smile as she scooted inside. ¡°Besides, anyone that got fired, I''d just hire, so it''s a moot point.¡± He pointed out as he entered behind her.


    ¡°Tell that to Hank.¡± Hope said wryly, a hint of frustration underneath it. She flashed him another smile as he opened the fridge and offered her a drink.


    ¡°I prefer not to speak with him if I can help it. You''re much lovelier.¡± Justin said, flashing her a smirk, enjoying the light blush that appeared on her face.


    ¡°To friendship and business.¡± Hope said, lifting her drink in a toast, eyes mischievous as Justin sat back, a hand to his heart.


    ¡°You''re killing me here, Hope.¡± He complained lightly.


    She eyed him thoughtfully, ¡°I think you could use a friend more then another booty call anyway, Justin.¡± She pointed out, smirking in an undeniably sexy way.


    Which just wasn''t fair in this situation.


    Justin chuckled, leaning back in his seat, ¡°Spoken like someone who hasn''t tried a Justin Hammer special.¡± He taunted lightly, bragging a little.


    Hope raised an eyebrow, her blush intensifying even as she spoke dryly, ¡°I have seen the video, you know.¡±


    Justin scratched his chin, ¡°Ah.¡± He said, lacking anything better to say, feeling slightly caught off guard. He''d thought SHIELD wouldn''t lose hold of it so quickly and easily.


    Hope cleared her throat, seemingly determined to just move past that embarrassing moment, ¡°Anyway, I think we could do a lot together, as friends and business partners, we click together, you know?¡±


    Justin smiled, ¡°We do.¡± But inwardly his thoughts whirled, he''d been friendzoned, which stung slightly as he quite liked Hope - but more than that, Hope still wanted to move forward in business together.


    It seemed that in saving Hank Pym''s life he hadn''t entirely ruined everything after all. Pym technologies wouldn''t be his, no¡­ But if he could pry some particles out of Pym¡¯s hands, who knows what could happen?


    He eyed Hope, smiling as she excitedly talked about the potential in a business arrangement between them. She really was beautiful when she smiled, he thought.


    Pity it seemed she was wary of a relationship, but he was probably not well suited for one, and either way, they''d barely begun a friendship.


    Who knew what could happen years down the road.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Next morning,


    ¡°So General Ross, let''s make it clear, I''ll sell you power armor, but it will cost you 10 billion per suit and the operator will have to come train with our development team for several years before we can make it operational for an entire force, instead of a singular individual.¡± Justin explained smugly, sitting at the table fully relaxed at the situation.


    By the time the army would have some suits, an alien invasion would have happened, ensuring the military would focus on outside threats and not be looking to blow up his planet.


    He''d DNA lock them too, needing a new operator trained after their operator retires or dies - further slowing down the process. Allowing him to wait until just before Thanos before letting the genie fully out of the bottle and spreading them everywhere.


    Earth would be no one''s plaything.


    ¡°That''s outrageous, Hammer!¡± Ross barked, a vein pulsing in his forehead. ¡°Both the time and the money, you can do better than that!¡±


    Justin crossed his arms, a superior look on his face as he stared the general down with an all out smug attitude, ¡°If you don''t like my prices just ask someone else¡­¡±


    There was of course no one else.


    Justin so liked winning.


    £ª£ª£ª

 Mysteries Afoot.

    <hr>


    Cairo, Egypt.


    Justin liked to complain about how busy and stressed out he was, and truly, when it came to issues like the Mandarin and such - such things did invite some stress and temporary tantrums, but those were outliers, really.


    Most of the time he didn''t get bothered, Magneto and the Mandarin were certainly outliers that would bother any sane, logical being, so no one could really blame him for letting those issues stress him slightly.


    However, when it came to his business and the politics of the world, he didn''t falter.


    He thrived - even as he complained about it to all and sundry - in the high stress environment of business and politics. This morning alone, he''d spoken with four President''s, two Prime Ministers, one King, and Alexander Pierce - and taken care of business matters all at the same time.


    Rhodes had been contacted as well, his efforts updated with what Justin called a ''tip'' but was basically everything he remembered about the cave Tony Stark was in, and the people that held him, including the fellow hostage, Yinsen. Perhaps that would help him narrow the search area down.


    If the good doctor had been nabbed anywhere near the cave, at least they had a new avenue to search from¡­ Hopefully it would at least help a little, and hopefully Gulmira wasn''t actually on the other side of the country or something.


    Either way, Frank and Brock were already enroute, ready to kill everything with extreme prejudice as soon as they found the location.


    He could no longer risk waiting on Tony Stark. Not if there was any chance the Mandarin was involved in the situation. He''d almost sent Domino for the job, but she was too useful as his last defense, the Wakandan attack on his New York headquarters had shown as much.


    He rolled across the room on his rolling chair, biting off a bit of beef jerky as he did, gesturing with one hand at Elena, who was busy with two phone conversations at the same time.


    It was a rare person that could pull something like that off, but Elena was a queen of multitasking.


    Without missing a beat she dropped one of the phones in Justin''s outstretched hand, as Justin spun on the chair lazily for a moment, juggling it, "This is Justin Hammer¡­" He listened for a moment before growing bored and interrupting, "I don''t know why you are giving me a hard time here, Dembe, buddy." He said affably, before biting off another piece of jerky, "We''re all friends here, aren''t we?"


    The absolute pleasure Justin derived from being able to casually talk to a tyrant that held the lives of over 2 million people at his fingertips - like he was a gas station attendant - was just impossible to really quantify.


    "You ask for too much, for too little." Was the growled reply, but Justin just chuckled, rolling back across the floor to where his desk was, not at all bothered by the antagonistic tone of the voice.


    Just because the man had a habit of crucifying political opponents - or left handed people for some reason (Justin didn''t judge) - didn''t make the man a threat to Justin. "Buddy, hey¡­ I ask for nothing but the best for both of us. Now you have tons of ''prisoners working without pay'' available for both our benefits, so be a nice man and put them to use."


    The Gambia was a small poor country that was in essence not worth much to pretty much anyone, which was why a dictator so easily could rule it, without any sanctions and notice from the rest of the world. It could be worth something to Justin however - if used right.


    He had to prove that desalination plants could be done economically and climate friendly, before he could roll them out all over Africa as one of the steps of his revitalization plan. And Gambia not only had access to the coast of west Africa, but was situated entirely around a river. Offering plenty of opportunities to make Gambia a testbed for the technology, while also building enough that he could immediately provide extra water for all nearby countries while he built up more infrastructure elsewhere.


    Other countries were hesitant to allow many plants due to how ineffective they currently were. Gambia would prove otherwise.


    Normally desalination plants just weren''t very good for anyone, for all that it got brought up every few years as the solution to everything. The energy costs made it particularly pointless, and the aftereffects were just pumped back into the ocean or rivers being used - polluting it, killing fish and creating other issues that just made it a worthless project.


    With arc reactors, energy wasn''t a problem, and Justin was really being beyond charitable by giving the country where most citizens were way below the poverty limit - an arc reactor ahead of schedule of more profitable nations. By the time the desalination plant(s) were built, someone in his company would have cooked up something for handling the waste he was sure.


    Or he''d just add it to the Vanko''s list, worst case. Something he''d rather avoid if he could.


    He did have a fairly large research division that should be able to handle it. He certainly paid them enough.


    So really, he was being a super nice guy about this. The ''people working without pay'' aka slaves, would see a much improved life once everything came online, with actual jobs, water and energy available to everyone.


    And the end of slavery too, so really they should thank him.


    Not to mention the whole infrastructure build up he''d set in motion that would transform the small country to sights unseen in just a few years.


    Perhaps Dembe realized the issue? How in essence, Hammer was taking over the country while leaving Dembe with the hatred of the people, left holding the bag once the people had the resources to overthrow him. All thanks to the gentle and lovable industrial overlord who made it possible by providing jobs, energy and water¡­


    It was going to be a bother if the man was smart enough to realize the noose Hammer was offering him.


    "You''re not offering enough, Hammer. For all that you want to build, my cut should be bigger!" Dembe shouted into the phone, a heavy slam denoting the tin pot dictator slamming a fist down on something.


    Nevermind, it''s all about the money¡­ Justin thought, chuckling again, feeling the aggravation over the line at not being taken seriously. "Dembe, Dembe, you''re already going to be richer then you''ve ever dreamed of, why are you getting greedy, buddy?" He asked, amused at the thought the man had managed to take over a country, but was going to so easily lose his hold on it, just for a fat paycheck.


    "I don''t need you, Hammer." Dembe said quietly, a seething anger behind his words. His intransigence was starting to annoy Justin now, he really was offering a good deal, for the few years Dembe could enjoy it before he inevitably got lynched anyway.


    "Did I hurt your feelings?" Justin mocked, rolling his chair right up to the screen he''d had installed that showed a holographic map of Africa, everything pertinent to his endeavors marked out clear to see. Justin zoomed in on Gambia, tearing off another strip of beef jerky as he did. "Tell you what, Dembe¡­ Just because I''m a nice guy, I''ll cut you another five percent, okay? Is that enough to get you started?"


    Dembe grumbled audibly, before snorting like a bull, "You''ve seen sense then. Fine. It will be done." He said, rudely hanging up right after.


    Justin knew that he couldn''t be seen as a proponent for slave labor, even if it did so neatly save him the effort of bringing his own people down there. The people suffering under Dembe - whose full name was so long Justin just called him Dembe (not actually part of his name) would not suffer long.


    He could wait until everything was built and the people threw a coup, had in fact planned as such. But Dembe had been quite rude and demanding just now, and Justin just didn''t have to take that anymore, not from little pissants. He finished his beef jerky, tossing the phone to Elena, who easily grasped it, even as she continued her own phone call with the President of Angola.


    A much more cooperative fellow, willing to sell his entire country''s soul if it meant Hammer industries made their country a major hub for their plans. Justin liked forward thinking people like that.


    They made it so much easier to completely roll over all opposition and burrow down so completely he could never be extricated from the country again.


    "Sunil, note it down, when all the foundations have been cleared by the locals and we move in to build up in Gambia, have Dembe assassinated will you? Pay extra to make it something funny, like drowning in a toilet or something." Justin asked, as he stood up from his chair, pleased to see so many marks denoting Hammer industries presence already. His people were flooding in across the continent, hiring up the locals, buying up all the local businesses down to every grocery store or sweatshop, beginning the first stages of infrastructure projects and complete Hammer domination. "Make sure whoever''s in line after, knows not to rock the boat." He added absentmindedly.


    Sure they might become democratic afterwards, but odds were more likely that when Dembe dies, his second would simply slide into his shoes. Hopefully someone not quite as demanding - or quite as obvious about using slaves.


    Useful as they were in doing the beginning drudge work before the experts came in - they did make for horrible PR. It was also horribly inefficient and a bad use of human resources of course.


    "What''s next on the agenda?" He said, rubbing his hands together, ending with a loud clap. This shit was what he lived for, running roughshod over an entire continent, getting what he wanted and not having to care an iota about what anyone thought about it.


    Taking, buying, blackmailing, all the businesses that weren''t international or useless to him - like restaurants and other small businesses of that caliber and the like - and making them his, spreading his name across Africa to where its people wouldn''t be able to walk down the street without seeing five businesses with his name on it.


    The whole world was laser focused on Wakanda, while all of Africa was scrambling to get as much of the Justin Hammer pie as possible, giving him an even stronger position then he''d already had. Disregarding people like Dembe who obviously thought they were hot shit.


    Or whatever the hell his name was.


    It was somewhat amusing that the world''s focus was on Africa - yet he was still able to do whatever he wanted, because they were laser focused only on the part that mattered to the west.


    All those leaders that had signed the deal in Johannesburg would surely come to regret it as Justin slowly took over everything, making it so they could never turn down a request from him, the entire infrastructure and supply chain owned by him. Well¡­ Maybe they wouldn''t? The whole continent would come out better for it after all.


    Too bad he couldn''t rename it. The focus groups had been severely against naming the continent, a country, or even a capital after Justin.


    Elena and Domino hadn''t stopped laughing for a day. It wasn''t that odd, he''d thought.


    "Sir, your flight to London is in 3 hours, we can handle this." Sunil said, surrounded by a cadre of people that helped him run things. All having arrived from their London and New York offices to assist with setting up their new Cairo office.


    There was a continuous flow as people that weren''t essential to his operations out west, all flowed into Africa to set up his work here.


    Justin just grinned, fixing his tie as he cracked his neck, "So that means I have at least another hour more where I can get things done."


    He gestured to Elena who simply smirked and handed him another phone, mouthing out, "Libya." To him.


    Justin raised the phone to his ear, a pleased grin on his face, everything moving so rapidly and all of it his way! "So! Calling to talk about Hammer industries plans for reclaiming the desert I wager? Just give me a minute to get Egypt on the line, that way I don''t have to say it twice.."


    It was good to be him.


    <hr>


    Hours later,


    Private Jet, over the Mediterranean


    Sometimes it was not good to be him¡­


    "You can not be serious?" Justin ground out between clenched teeth, sitting in the specially installed chair, with its attached screen(supposedly safest communication device in the world) inside his jet, allowing him to connect with his fellow World Security Council members.


    Or as he liked to call them - those useless clowns who keep making everything worse.


    "It is the conclusion we have reached." The Indian councilor murmured, his features hidden. Justin was already working on revealing his fellow councilors, but for now, most of them were unfortunately an enigma to him.


    "With all due respect, it''s the wrong conclusion." Justin said, not at all holding any respect for the idiots on this council, but unlike tin pot dictators, these idiots had to be treated differently. For now.


    One day soon, not even these modern world power brokers would be able to do anything but bend their necks when he spoke.


    He was looking forward to it.


    "You should have been available for our discussion if you had objections, councilor." Gideon Malick said, with a butter won''t melt in my mouth - kind of voice.


    Justin knew him, thanks to Pierce. Knew him to be HYDRA, and knew him to be an asshole of the highest order. He glared at the indistinguishable blurry blob on his video screen, "I run the largest company in the world, I can''t come running everytime you people have an issue." He grimaced, shaking his head, "Although perhaps I will have to from now on, if this is the so-called wisdom of this council¡­"


    "Something needs to be done, councilor, and this is the choice we have taken for the betterment of us all." Came the chiding, electronically scrambled voice of the British representative.


    "I highly doubt Magneto stole the Iliad." Justin riposted sharply, "And even if he did, it would be better to negotiate and find out why? Then to antagonize the man who could tear a skyscraper into the sky and toss it at us!"


    "He has never shown the capability to keep that up long enough that it will matter." Came the dismissive answer from another councilor. And Justin wanted to snap at him, but held his tongue. Their minds were made up already.


    They didn''t know. They saw Magneto as a threat, but he''d been mostly in the background, they didn''t know just how bad the man could become if he went all out. That said, he''d already shown the capability to throw around a skyscraper or its equivalent at least, so Justin couldn''t fathom how they were so blas¨¦ about the whole thing. Fury likely knows better...


    "Let''s leave this discussion for now, I''ll save the rest for the inevitability of a later - I told you so." Justin sniped sarcastically. "What news on Wakanda?"


    The video screen focused on the hologram of Nick Fury. As it usually was for these types of meetings, the man was the only one standing, "SHIELD techs are pouring over what remains of the shot down Wakandan aircrafts, we do not yet have the means to bypass the shield, but we will." Fury said coolly, single eye intense.


    "You''re welcome." Justin offered, leaning back in his chair, one leg crossed over the other. "I''m counting every gram of Vibranium, Fury, don''t let any go missing¡­" He warned, a sardonic smile on his face, because of course some would go missing. It was a given. Whether it was Fury himself or HYDRA that would do the deed, was the question.


    It really was unfair that his identity was known to all the councilors and yet they dragged their feet on allowing him full access. Pretentious idiots. Like they were worth half of what he was to the world¡­


    "Understood." Fury said stiffly, none too pleased to be answering to Justin, and for a world renowned spy, all too clear in showing it. What an oxymoron to begin with¡­ World renowned spy in itself said you were a bad spy.


    Yes, that means you too Natasha¡­ He thought with scorn.


    Justin listened with half an ear as the regular updates on Wakanda were gone over, nothing really new to add. NATO and the US armed forces were finally encroaching on Wakanda in significant enough forces to take over from the Africans.


    Ready to take all the glory after the Africans all bled for it already, he thought with some amusement.


    That sort of action would only quicken his own takeover of the continent. The more they were met with such casual disregard, and were bulldozed by the western powers - the more they''d fall in line with Justin, crawling deeper into his influence until they wouldn''t even realize they were all puppets, dancing as he pulled the strings.


    Seeing that there was nothing new to add, he offered his own tidbit, "I have an operative inside who is working on bringing the shield down." He said casually, enjoying the full silence that engulfed the - seconds ago - lively debate.


    "When were you planning on telling this council?" Gideon growled, leaning forward slightly, his hands clenched into fists, if his holographic avatar was any tell.


    Justin continued to lean back lazily, showing nothing but a total lack of concern at the attention from the rest of the council. "I just did." He said with a mocking tilt to his voice.


    "Anything you can tell us about this operative and the likelihood of success of the operation?" Fury asked, looking pissed as well, but at least he was able to put it to use, trying to get more information.


    Justin waved a hand airily, faking nonchalance, "Oh, just the son of a Wakandan prince that grew up in America and became an American soldier¡­ He''s like fourth in line to the throne, if Wakandan''s had a more civilized manner of succession."


    The silence was deafening, only the sound of the jet traveling through the Mediterranean audible as Justin grinned sharply, "What? You weren''t aware? Oh, dear, another strike for the intelligence agency." He said mockingly, before shrugging carelessly, "No matter, he works for me now, and he''s already inside Wakanda." He rested his chin in one hand, flashing a smile, "Again, you''re welcome."


    Fury looked completely stone faced, an expression Justin had learned he particularly used when he was beyond pissed.


    Fury soon enough cut through the noise of the other councilors all trying to ask questions at once, sharply demanding, one eye fixated on Justin''s holographic avatar. "And the status of the operation?"


    Justin smiled beatifically, "I''m afraid I can''t share such sensitive information, SHIELD just isn''t up to par with my own organization when it comes to such things, you understand."


    Alright, he was still pissed that the idiots had decided to poke the giant NOPE sign that was Magneto¡­ But he wasn''t lying either, SHIELD really was getting a bad reputation.


    The look on Fury''s face right now, literally worth a fortune. Justin thought, as he smiled smugly, meeting the irritated spy''s gaze.


    "I didn''t hear a thank you?" He said smoothly, grinning at the man''s holographic image.


    ¡­


    Thirty minutes later,


    Justin scoffed at the absolute idiocy that was the organization supposed to keep them all safe, as he hung up the call, stepping away from the chair, the holographic screens that cut away both image and sound for anyone nearby, receding.


    He''d sooner trust the NYPD to protect them from aliens than SHIELD/HYDRA and the World Security Council.


    At least the cops were less likely to stab them in the back for their new alien overlords¡­


    He rubbed his face as he dialed a number, it was all down to him as usual.


    The phone was picked up,


    "Hey, Charles, any chance you can get Erik to sit down for a meeting, all three of us? Preferably without ripping the building apart?"


    Justin listened for the answer, while fiddling with his glasses. With Extremis he didn''t actually need glasses anymore, but with all the tech he had in them, they were too useful to remove.


    He couldn''t do a lie detector, not fully, yet. However, he was able to do things like take in the audio of a phone call and analyze the cadence of a voice, matching it to publicly available records of the same voice to look for subtle clues of subterfuge.


    It wasn''t foolproof, but he had made it a habit to run the program anytime he was on the phone now.


    His glasses at this point ran more programs than most computers, all powered by the tiniest batteries Vanko had come out with yet.


    Too bad it was all too useful to actually sell at the capacity it was capable of.


    He listened to Charles answer, the glasses flashing with no detected subterfuge.


    "Set it up in New York if possible, I''ll be there for business in three days." He asked politely.


    He didn''t relish meeting with Magneto again, but with Charles there, the likelihood of anything going wrong was either much lower, or much higher¡­ He was of two minds on the issue.


    Domino and Phantazia would obviously have to come with him, just in case.


    But he now had more than one reason to need to speak with Magneto. His frown deepened as he thought of who he held in his London headquarters at the moment.


    He refused to be dragged into a war between mutant kind and SHIELD, even if only part of mutant kind to begin with.


    It was time to begin operation - stop being fucking racist idiots and USE them you nitwits!


    <hr>


    Wakanda,


    T''Challa seethed in the background, standing by himself with only Okoye nearby as his guard, as everyone was charmed by the outsider.


    His father¡­ The man who had been all but dead for the last few weeks, had suddenly come alive again, and T''Challa hated that this N''Jadaka was behind it.


    How they couldn''t see what he saw? The insincerity in N''Jada - no¡­ Erik Stevens gaze. He didn''t deserve to be spoken to with the true name, he wasn''t Wakandan.


    The timing of his arrival¡­ Wakanda on a path towards destruction, spiraling towards the death of the nation - their last gasp attack on the Suez a monumental failure. And a lost prince arrives? One that had served in the enemy''s armed forces¡­


    How could they not see? Their shield is what kept them safe, it''s what would give them a chance to perhaps negotiate for peace, once the hardliners in the council began to see how pointless continued war was. And now they allowed an outsider in, a man that served in the enemy''s army.


    The risk¡­


    He was a charming snake, dripping with honeyed words even as the soul seen through his eyes, laughed in mockery of everything Wakandan.


    As the council meeting broke up, Stevens followed along with the councilors, chatting like old friends as they talked strategies to end the encirclement around Wakanda, T''Challa stopped his father with a gesture, signaling he wished to speak.


    "My son." T''Chaka said with a small smile on his gaunt face, having lost half his weight seemingly, over the last few weeks. "Why do you hide in the shadows?"


    T''Challa grimaced as he stepped into the light, appearing before his father, "Baba, I must protest, we know nothing of this man!" He entreatied his father, grasping his hands in his own, "He can not be trusted, Baba!"


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    T''Chaka grew solemn, his thin hands squeezing T''Challa''s gently, "I understand why you think so, my son. This time and situation has made us all leery of enemies."


    T''Challa shook his head slowly, "No¡­ It is not the war, Baba, it is him. I do not trust his intentions, never have I seen such a snake in human form."


    T''Chaka''s face grew stern as she stepped forward, bringing his hands up to grasp T''Challa''s face, meeting his eyes seriously, "He is family, T''Challa, you see enemies where there are none. He is one of us."


    T''Challa met his father''s eyes, bitterly averting his gaze after a moment, shoulders slumping. The fact his father once again had light in his eyes made it hard to gainsay him. "As you say, Baba." He muttered, stepping back.


    Nothing he had done, nothing Shuri or their mother had done - had brought life back to T''Chaka.


    And now this stranger¡­ Succeeded where they had not, and in doing so, stole his father away from him.


    T''Chaka didn''t listen to T''Challa anymore. This time he didn''t even get a chance to discuss his suspicions before he was shut down.


    With some empty platitudes to appease him, he left his father, heading into the deeper recesses of the palace - Okoye faithfully following him three steps behind.


    Everything kept going wrong¡­ His last gasp plan now seemed the only way forward, even his father''s return working against him thanks to the snake in the grass.


    A choked gasp behind him made him twist around, spotting a twitching Okoye falling to the floor, her eyes wide as she was electrocuted, before the woman lost consciousness.


    "You!" T''Challa snarled, caught flat-footed as Erik Stevens knocked him into a wall, an arm across his throat, having brought down Okoye without a wisp of sound, had he stolen a weapon from the lab?


    "Hey, cuz, how''s it hanging?" Erik said with a cocky, playful smirk.


    T''Challa pushed him away, the outsider chuckling as he moved with him instead of pressing his advantage.


    "What is your game here?" T''Challa asked warily, knowing the speed of his adversary and the strength in which he pinned him - was not that of an ordinary human.


    It matched his own.


    "Just wanted to say hi, really. See how my cuz was doing, since you know¡­" He tilted his head slightly, a half smirk on his face, "You''ve been avoiding me and all."


    "For good reason. You will finally be brought down, attacking me like this was a foolish last move," T''Challa said darkly, adding a spiteful, "Cousin!" For good measure.


    Erik only laughed, standing completely at ease unlike T''Challa''s warrior stance. "Nah, nah, cuz¡­ You''ve got it all wrong, y''all aren''t going to do a thing to me, only you and me here¡­" Erik toed the unconscious Okoye, chuckling further as he looked down at her, glancing at T''Challa out of the corner of his eye, "And ain''t like daddy dearest listens to you anymore anyway¡­"


    T''Challa hated how the interloper had set up the situation, because he was right. His Baba would not accept just his word. Not anymore.


    "What do you want?" He hissed out, flexing his fingers, desperately wishing he could just attack, but Okoye¡­ He glanced down at her body, prone and defenseless. I can not strike¡­


    Erik grinned, stroking his chin, "Want? So many things, cuz, so many many things. But with you?" He paused, making a show off thinking about it, before grinning wildly, flashing bright white teeth as his eyes burned, "I ain''t need or want anything from you, cuz. The coward prince, it''s what they call you now, ain''t it?" His grin grew larger somehow, "Cause you''re refusing to fight?"


    Coward he was called¡­ He accepted the moniker, but he saw strength differently now, and going out and killing for no purpose was no longer something he could call strong.


    T''Challa refused to respond, seeing a pointless waste of words as his only response if he did. He glared at the outsider that had invaded his home, daring him to attack.


    Erik sighed, "Well, you''re less fun than I''d thought, not really a panther are you? More like a nice fluffy kitten¡­"


    "You mock me?" T''Challa growled, unable to follow his own decision to keep silent.


    Erik Stevens, the man who claimed to be N''Jadaka, the man calling himself Killmonger, snapped his fingers loudly, "Now you''re getting it." He mocked.


    It took every bit of willpower T''Challa possessed to keep himself still and not throw himself at the man.


    Okoye¡­ And think of Shuri, don''t leave her alone to face all this. He told himself as he stood shock still, refusing to be baited.


    If he attacked him, he wasn''t sure what way his father would lean nowadays - he couldn''t risk it.


    Eventually Killmonger left, leaving T''Challa to rouse Okoye, his mind already on the project he''d sponsored.


    The way to save them.


    Killmonger would face the Black Panther before that day if he had anything to say about it.


    They''d see who was a coward then.


    <hr>


    London,


    Justin stepped off his jet, frowning up at the sky, which was overcast and gray, "This is why I hate going to Britain." He told the sky, before continuing on his way down the airplane stairs.


    He was met at the bottom by Eileen and Joachim Kahn - one of his senior people in Britain, who ran most of the businesses here for Justin.


    With Eileen being a statuesque model and Joachim being a tiny and stocky German man, that most would assume walked off the set off a play of Snow White - the contrast was amusing to see walking down.


    "Eileen, Joachim." He said pleasantly, nodding at them as he approached the armored limousine they stood in front of.


    Without any further discussion, they all entered the limousine, Domino going into the front with the driver. There was no reason to linger at the airport, after all.


    Justin was immediately handed a file by Joachim, the man immediately moving onto business, as was his usual wont. Justin had hired him two years ago, and he''d never heard of the man taking as much as a minute off, or ever even approaching anything that could be called small talk.


    He appreciated the German efficiency, even as it annoyed him slightly that he could not social fu a man whose only interest lay in paperwork.


    "That''s some¡­ Heavy editing here, Joachim." He said, not opposed to it, but interested in what their approach had been.


    Joachim grunted, taking the file back, "If you truly desire full market penetration, sir, the team added Reddit and a couple smaller apps to the list for purchase, to fill up your vision for the app." He explained gruffly, gesturing to the file.


    Justin hummed in thought, nodding along, searching up Reddit on his glasses and its current estimated worth, which was basically peanuts, "I should have thought it myself, carry on." He acknowledged.


    "We couldn''t find Instagram, as you asked us to, but with your description of its purpose, the app team believes they can come up with your intended purpose." Joachim said, his baggy eyes looking at him with reproach for sending them on a wild goose chase.


    Justin scratched his chin, having not even realized Instagram didn''t exist yet. "Huh, I suppose I just believed something like it must exist then." He said calmly, flashing a smile at the dour Joachim, "I notice that you disapproved of my method of payment?"


    Joachim scoffed, slapping the file down on his knees, "Sir, your idea has merit, an everything app that includes social media, payment services, streaming services and more - will sell like hotcakes."


    "But?" Justin asked, Eileen shifting impatiently next to him as Justin continued to push off their own discussion.


    Joachim moved his jaw silently, looking for the words for a moment, "Sir, it is my own, and the teams opinion, that the app would find greater success in the end if some of the lower end services were free, while the higher end services were available for a fee - or even giving people their own choice, mixing and matching services on the app for a price, being able to pick their own personal configuration." He smoothed down the file in his lap, before continuing, "The services like this YouTube would make more sense as a free service, as does Twitter, ensuring you always have a large amount of users. The small fee for everything you proposed, will in our opinion detract from full usage, while a mixed free and payment set up would ensure full usage of the app."


    Joachim thought it over, mulling on something, before giving one last option, "Or simply add all of the above to the operating system of the phones themselves and have it all be as one packet with a phone plan."


    Justin thought it over, finding nothing really disagreeable about either notion, his goal was to ensure as many people as possible used it after all. Free might work as well, but people were inherently suspicious of a free ride. "It will take a while to buy up the companies involved and craft our own apps and teams to run them¡­ Go with both of your suggestions for now, we can revisit once we''re at the development stage of the final product." Justin ordered.


    Joachim nodded, almost looking pleased but as always it was hard to tell with the gruff man.


    They continued to speak about the business and his upcoming meeting with the Prime minister as they rode towards his London Headquarters, Eileen squirming in her seat the entire way, showing more emotion than he ever recalled seeing her do before.


    Finally, they arrived.


    Justin gave Joachim a few last instructions as Eileen impatiently waited, Domino watching her with a scrunched up nose, looking ill at ease.


    "Alright, I''m here, what can you tell me?" Justin said calmly as he walked over, entering the building with his two bodyguards.


    Eileen led him into the VIP elevator, before speaking up, "It''s definitely still her. All tests lead to the same result according to Dr. McCoy."


    Justin nodded, accepting the answer, gesturing for her to continue, secretly very pleased Mystique wasn''t an alien or something.


    Eileen looked frustrated, her brows knitted together as she talked, "We can''t find what''s wrong, not really. The tests have concluded there are no mind altering chemicals or anything of the sort in her body, for all intents and purposes she seems perfectly healthy and fine."


    Justin scoffed, as they exited the elevator into the secret sub basement, "You wouldn''t have finally called me here if that was all you had." He said, certain of that much. He already had an appointment in London, or he wouldn''t even have come now. He had more important things to do than worry about Mystique.


    "Dr. McCoy has been performing psychological tests that confirm that something is different, even if brain scans continue to show nothing." Eileen explained, taking them down a hallway towards the special cells, the ones built to be rather impossible to escape from for any normal or semi-normal being. "At this point he is certain it''s nothing biological, or chemical, and that she is still herself for the most part, but he is also certain she is being influenced somehow." Eileen sighed, "At this point magic doesn''t seem too farfetched."


    Justin wanted to scoff at that. He was not a fan of magic, one of the reasons he had not bothered to claim any for himself. The world of beings like Dormammu can keep to themselves and leave him the physical world.


    That said¡­ Magic was unfortunately a possibility in this case. Which would be annoying, because it would mean someone was poking around Mystique with magic, and could be after him, or Magneto, or both.


    "So I''m here to see if this ''effect'' shows itself more clearly in my presence considering Mystique has consistently popped up near me." Justin concluded.


    Eileen nodded, leading him into the room that looked into Mystique''s cell. Dr McCoy, or as he was also called, Beast, stood before the two way glass, holding a clipboard, a white lab coat covering him.


    "Ah, Mister Hammer, it''s a pleasure to make your acquaintance." He rumbled, his eyes never leaving the cell.


    Justin nodded, coming to stand beside him, Domino stepping in close, eyes on the massive man beside him. "Dr McCoy, I''m pleased to have you working with me and my company, we''re going to be able to do a lot for mutant kind." He said quietly, looking through the window.


    "Why is she naked?" He asked right away, averting his eyes immediately, finding Eileen, who was looking away as well, cheeks rosy as she seemed to be breathing in heavily, looking uncomfortable.


    Justin couldn''t blame her, Mystique had taken her form after all and apparently refused to dress herself. He did give Domino a stern look as the woman immediately stepped closer to the glass to ogle the woman within.


    Sometimes she could take her playfulness too far with Phantazia.


    Dr McCoy ignored the byplay, humming in thought, as he watched the readings of a machine nearby. "As I thought, there is something there."


    "What is it?" Eileen asked quickly, before Justin could.


    "She''s had a spike in her brain just from the mere presence of Mister Hammer." Dr McCoy said, watching the readouts, "Whatever is affecting her behavior, does have some sort of tie to you, I just can''t seem to isolate it."


    "Magic, perhaps?" Justin allowed, grimacing.


    Dr McCoy didn''t immediately disregard it as he''d thought, but perhaps the X-Men had run into magic users before. "Perhaps," He admitted, he pushed up his glasses, glancing at Justin, "She might receive better care at Xavier''s institute."


    Justin thought it over, "I''ll see what I can swing, Magneto will surely have something to say too, but either way, if she''s focused on me, I will get her out of my company, and my presence."


    Eileen looked pained, as she looked back to the cell, Justin noticed and gave her a tight smile, "Xavier will be able to poke her better then we can." He told her.


    He''d come here to see what his presence would do, but he would avoid actually letting her know he was here, if there was some sort of magical trap or something involved, he wanted no part of it. Xavier could deal with it. They had a meeting already scheduled anyway.


    "I''ll notify you when I have an answer." He said clippedly to Dr McCoy, who likely would contact Xavier anyway before Justin even left the building.


    He had more meetings, he couldn''t afford to spend his time on someone he''d rather left him alone for the rest of his life.


    And¡­ It seemed like he''d have to put - recruit a magic user - on the list after all.


    Stupid wizards¡­


    <hr>


    Prime Minister''s office, London.


    "Mister Prime Minister, a pleasure to see you again!" Justin lied as he stepped into the office, shaking the hand of the ''most powerful man'' in Britain.


    Heh. As if.


    "Justin, always a pleasure, please call me Gordon." Gordon Brown lied right back, his hand spending the minimum amount of time necessary in the handshake, before the man returned behind his desk. "Can I offer you anything to drink?"


    Justin shook his head, sinking into the chair in front of the desk, "No thank you, Gordon, here for business only today, I''m afraid."


    Gordon nodded slowly, "And what business is that today, Justin? Have you come to respond in person to our request for Arc reactor priority?"


    Justin smiled affably, "That''s always a possibility, but I have many irons in the fire right now, Gordon. Britain might be rather behind in the queue."


    Oh, he did not like that. Justin thought with an inward chuckle as Gordon Brown''s face soured almost imperceptibly.


    "Is that so? It''s a damn shame to be hearing that, is there anything we can do?" Gordon asked, seasoned enough politician to see when the beginning of horse trading was upon him.


    Justin nodded genially, "Yes, there is. You see the European Union is being a damn hassle with all these monopoly and antitrust laws and what have you, it''s very inconvenient to my business."


    Gordon splayed his hands out, "I''m but one voice in the EU, Justin¡­ There''s only so much I can do."


    Justin smirked, "Ah, but I''m not asking you to intercede with the European Union, Gordon."


    There was silence in the office for a moment as Gordon parsed that, looking Justin over critically.


    "What then, are you asking for?" He queried.


    "Ignore them." Justin said winningly.


    "Pardon me?"


    "Ignore them, take my business, let there be arc power everywhere across Britain, let my other companies profligate, and ignore any sanctions they might threaten you with for ignoring their attempts to strong arm me." Justin explained, a smirk ever present on his face as he relaxed in his chair, bullying the Prime Minister of a major country.


    Because the opposite was hidden underneath his offer. Deny him - and see all that business disappear. While he''d try this again, with another country.


    There were plenty of counties in the European Union. One of them would bite.


    With the sour look on Gordon Brown''s face, he was well aware of the vice he''d just been put in.


    "The European Union will not be pleased to put it lightly, if I go against their resolution and their stance against allowing you full access." Gordon said with a hint of anger in his voice, "You''re picking a fight here, Justin¡­"


    "A fight I can''t lose." Justin said with no concern in his voice, "Whatever they''ll threaten to sanction you with won''t cost more then the money you''ll make off my businesses, not to mention the sanctions will never happen, because the other countries will see you ignoring the resolution and profiting - and they''ll follow."


    The self assurance in Justin''s voice seemed to calm the Prime Minister. Or maybe it was the fact he was in fact a politician and could see the same result happening.


    He''d just have to survive the six months to a year of rocky waters until it all fell apart and Justin would gain full access to European markets, no antitrust laws impeding him.


    "Should I go speak to France instead¡­" He asked leadingly.


    From the scowl on the Prime Minister''s face. He knew he''d won.


    <hr>


    New York, 3 days later.


    If anything showed how he''d climbed to a top position in the world of powerful men, it was this meeting.


    Three men sitting in a conference room, two of them able to decapitate the United States of America if they so choose. And one man that held no significant personal power - yet still forced the two others to pay attention.


    Not that Justin couldn''t decapitate the country as well if he so chose, it would just be a little slower than the other two. And at least he had some fashion sense and propriety. Xavier had shown up with his X displayed literally everywhere, and Magneto showed up with his helmet and cape and everything - honestly he felt like he was at a comic con.


    Xavier had already been sitting in the room, calm as could be when Justin had arrived, Domino and Phantazia joining the X-Men guards sitting in the lobby. His wheelchair displayed the two large X''s across the wheels, and even the man''s navy tie, of course, displaying them as well.


    Yes, we get it, you''re Professor X, kudos. Justin thought, annoyed at the ridiculousness of superheroes and villains.


    He wasn''t nearly as campy about everything, he didn''t even do maniacal laughter or monologuing¡­ Much.


    Magneto had just entered the room shortly thereafter, and hadn''t even bothered to bring any of the brotherhood with him, in an obvious statement move - you can''t do anything to me - he was saying, as he''d swept into the room dramatically, his cape swirling like a Severus Snape cosplayer.


    "Well¡­ You called this meeting, Hammer. What is it that you want from us?" Erik Lensheer said dryly, only briefly glancing at Charles as he sat down.


    Both Justin and Erik wore their respective defenses against mental intrusion, neither one of them the trusting sort. Justin at least could say his was tastefully done and hidden - much better than a full helmet.


    How on earth had the X-Men and Magneto entered the building without drawing all the attention? Justin had enough problems getting around without everyone recognizing him, and he wasn''t wearing spandex or a cape.


    Of course¡­ Silly question. Justin glanced at Charles - it''s not mindrape if you''re a hero - Xavier, who likely blanked out the memory of them arriving from anyone in a two block radius.


    "Well, before we can get into the particulars, I need to ask, did you steal the Iliad?" Justin said, his dry tone indicating his skepticism, pushing the matter of Charles'' unethical behavior away, to focus on the man capable of throwing the building they were in to the moon.


    Hopefully having Domino and Phantazia nearby might prevent anything like that. And at least the Vanko''s had managed to craft temporary mind protection implants based off Justin''s implants. They wouldn''t melt their brains¡­ As long as they only wore them for a few hours, just long enough to not have Xavier snoop around - ''heroically''.


    Erik scoffed, raising an incredulous eyebrow as he looked over at Charles. "Really, this nonsense is why you advocated so heavily for my presence, Charles?"


    Charles simply smiled, tilting his head softly, "It''s a simple question to answer, Erik, and then we can get down to our real agenda."


    Justin watched with narrowed eyes, his glasses recording and analyzing every tick and voice cadence as Erik furrowed his brows, seemingly thrown by Charles'' easy going acquiescence.


    "So easily you bend now, Charles. I find myself¡­ Disappointed." Erik murmured, fingers tapping the conference table slowly. His eyes turning to Justin, only cold distaste visible in a face that could have been carved out of granite. "If I had taken a nuclear capable vessel, Hammer, I would not have failed at hitting my target." He drawled, "Now¡­ Do not waste my time¡­" He warned, lips turned downwards.


    "Erik¡­" Charles warned softly, when some metal clips on the curtains were forcefully remade into thin needles in a flex of power, rotating in the air above them, facing Justin.


    Justin kept perfectly still, not showing any sign that he was bothered, he had known things would be tense, but he believed Magneto wouldn''t touch him, not now - not with how much fire he''d face, and not with Xavier in the room.


    Besides, needles might hurt, but they wouldn''t actually do anything to an Extremis enhanced person - and Magneto must know that.


    It was all posturing. Magneto would have done better as a wrestler then a revolutionary, Justin thought with a silent scoff.


    "Soft, Charles, you''ve gone unbelievably soft." Erik said coldly, the needles not removed, but not doing anything but floating there, either.


    "I prefer to think I''ve found a better perspective." Charles said mildly, folding his hands in front of him.


    Erik loudly scoffed at that but didn''t argue. Likely seeing it as a waste of time, as Charles would hardly change his mind. The both of them were equally stubborn and stuck in their ways. No wonder mutants were doomed without Justin''s assistance¡­


    Justin decided that this was the best he was going to get, and spoke up calmly. "Well, I didn''t believe you had any involvement in that matter anyway, Mister Lensherr, but it settles things as far as I''m concerned." He smirked, feigning a level of comfort he didn''t feel, "We''re here to discuss a solution to the mutant revelation - the one that is eventually going to break."


    Only through sheer inertia in the most powerful nations, and through Charles'' tireless efforts - had it not already boiled over. With some help from SHIELD of all things.


    Who knew they could be useful?


    Only silence answered him however, neither Charles nor Erik speaking up, just staring at him, one judgmental, and one with an almost eager expression.


    Justin cleared his throat, beginning his pitch, "Mutants will eventually be known to the entirety of humanity, and the important part about that is to not let the government be the one that controls the narrative." Justin shrugged lightly, leaning back, his eyes intent on Erik in particular, the one he really had to sell this to. "You''ll always be a threat, that''s unavoidable, because you are!" Justin said gesturing towards Erik, "You could destroy a country by your lonesome, no government is ever going to be comfortable with that."


    Erik simply clicked his tongue, crossing his arms, "Which is why we can never coexist."


    Justin shook his head, tapping the table lightly, "That''s where you''re wrong, you''ve been going about all of this wrong. Because it doesn''t matter what the government thinks¡­" He held a hand up, stopping Erik from replying, the leader of the Brotherhood''s face darkening at the gesture, but he held his tongue. "Charles¡­ Answer me this, what do the governments of the world truly fear¡­?"


    Charles looked amused, "Many things, Mister Hammer, but truly, the one thing a government can not truly control and therefore fear - is its people."


    Erik shook his head, a look of disgust flashing across his features, "You''re naive if you think I''ll fall for this pathetic argument, people," He sneered, putting emphasis on the word, "Are stupid and reactive and fully under the yoke of authority."


    A bitter smile played on his lips for a moment, "I would know more than anyone, people will always follow the will of the vilest most despicable humans."


    "Yes, people are stupid in any large number. And whether a democracy or a tyranny, eventually people get their way, through force, peaceful protest, elections - whatever way they can - they ultimately manage to bend governments to their will." Justin said, "Oh, don''t get me wrong, they never win. Not truly, the government just repurposes their goal and makes it theirs. But that would work just the same in this instance." Justin lowered his voice slightly, speaking more solemnly, "World War 2 showed you one aspect yes, but it also showed you how it was then crushed, a new way brought forward. This could be true for mutants too."


    Justin raised a hand, counting on his fingers, "Women, Blacks, Immigrants, Gays, I could go on, but it proves part of my point as it is, they all had no or few rights, and slowly managed to achieve some form of coexistence, bending the government through sheer peer pressure, and that''s just using America as the most recent example."


    "It would not be as simple for mutants, people in the know fear us to a different level. Once revealed, we would face persecution from those that stand against anything different then their perceived norm." Charles admitted, drawing a startled look from Erik as he, to all appearances, stepped in on his side of the argument.


    Charles smiled again, patting his long time friend''s arm, "He is, however, right in the essence of his argument, Erik." His face turned pensive, "We will never win over the governments and agencies of the world, neither by peace nor war." He warned, Erik paying rapt attention to his words, far more than he had to Justin''s. "If we can win quick acceptance with the public, the governments will bend, not willing to go all out in a fight that will bring their careers down, or in the case of the more¡­ Singular governments¡­ Enspirit a revolution."


    Justin took over immediately as Charles stopped speaking, not letting Erik rebut with his no doubt practiced and knee jerk reactions. "I currently have the world''s attention, they adore me, love me and my products¡­ If mutants were to be revealed as helping me make the world a better place, the reaction from the public would begin in a place of curiosity and faith, and snowball from there long before the warhawks of the world can put a stop to it."


    Not everyone, not even close, but if they could preempt the bigots and win over the majority before anyone even realizes there''s a fight - the battle will be half won. Justin thought, knowing he had the capability to fight just such a fight, and win.


    Erik did not look convinced in the slightest, annoying Justin, who continued to push, some more insistence leaking into his tone, "I''ve already begun the process to take over several UN aid organizations due to their breakdown. It is the perfect place to introduce mutants through - helping people in Africa, the continent so willing to assist me I could murder someone on the street and the politicians would insist nothing happened, refusing to miss out on my business for such a silly thing as murder. We introduce mutants there, they will be accepted in an entire continent." Justin hammered home, slamming a hand on the table for emphasis, leaning forward. "My name lent to the cause, mutants not fighting or causing damage - but helping their fellow man, good press constantly pushing against any negativity the conservative parts of the world will screech."


    Justin pointed at Charles, not willing to slow down for even a second, Erik needed to be onboard. "Charles will lend me Storm to lead the new UNESCO - she''s photogenic, a native, can help control the weather to prevent starvation of children. You won''t get a better poster woman for mutant kind. We will control the narrative. Tiberius Stone owes me one, or he will once I''ve delivered a favor he wants - the western media will follow what I say!"


    It would if Tiberius wanted extremis¡­ The media mogul had seemed very interested after the meeting in Bern, Justin hadn''t delivered yet, but he would if he could get the media dancing to his tune.


    Charles grasped Erik''s hand, looking solemn, "Please, Erik, this could change everything, just attempt it this way first, what harm do you stand to gain?"


    Justin thought that was hopelessly naive to say, because Magneto''s cause could stand to lose quite a lot, however it served his purposes so he supposed he couldn''t complain about Charles'' idealistic view.


    Erik did not look appeased, but he softened slightly at Charles'' touch. "I believe this will fail." He said sternly, "You both too easily assume humanity will follow your guidance like a pack of rats led by the pied piper¡­"


    The bitter smile and pure distaste on Erik''s face stopped any response as silence took over the conference room for a short period, Erik closing his eyes in thought, seemingly coming to a decision, before he rose up, waving two fingers carelessly, reforming and reattaching the metal clips, "You do as you wish, I will not interfere, but neither will I assist. Your cause is doomed to failure, humanity does not learn." He said heavily.


    Charles smiled brilliantly, apparently seeing more positives than Justin had in the statement, the leader of the X-Men turning away from Erik, addressing Justin, "Storm would be delighted to help, and any help the X-Men can give to assist you in this, you shall have."


    Justin eyed Magneto, who still hadn''t left, lingering by Charles'' side. "I need only that both of you, or just Charles, if you insist on not assisting us, Magneto¡­ Spread the word, let everyone know that Hammer industries is hiring mutants, that it is a fair deal, protected, good pay, and that they''ll be only helping people and building goodwill across the world."


    And by pure happenstance of course, they''ll also be incredibly loyal to the man that is making all this happen¡­ Justin thought, not seeing too many difficulties with beginning to build a good reputation for mutants with Storm as the poster girl as head of UNESCO.


    Sex sells, and hot is always hot. Using Storm as the poster girl for mutanthood would help, having mutants be seen helping with construction, relief work, and business as usual - instead of punching people while in spandex - would ensure they wouldn''t be easily vilified.


    Oh, there would always be those that tried, there were still KKK and other idiots around who still vilified people based on moronic reasons.


    Justin inwardly shook his head at the foolishness of racism of any kind to begin with. When there were so many idiots to hate, why hate based on mutation or skin color? Although he supposed the idiots had to have someone else to hate, as most humans did not in fact believe in hating themselves.


    "I will not stop anyone from joining." Erik said dramatically, swishing his cape around him as he made to leave.


    Justin knew that anyone from the brotherhood that joined him would likely be a spy, no doubt it would be the same for the X-Men, but that''s why he would use them for charity and outreach or construction and similar jobs - nothing important basically. It would be good PR and slowly position him as the largest benefactor of mutant kind.


    Most mutants weren''t X-Men or Brotherhood after all. He''d gobble them up for his own purposes.


    Charles doubtlessly knew, but seemed to accept it as the necessary evil of doing business. Justin wasn''t sure how much Erik knew or saw, but he had something else they needed to speak on, so he couldn''t let the man leave yet. He raised his hand, "Sorry to stop you, but we really need to speak about Mystique."


    Magneto slowly turned towards him, eyes narrowed, and yes, it was Magneto now, not Erik. Justin could feel it, like a pressure in the air, all bearing down on him.


    Comic villain he might be, with all the foibles attached - but the man had a presence that was impossible to ignore.


    "What about Mystique?" He queried mildly, taking a step forward, an aura of imminent violence around him.


    "Erik¡­" Charles said warningly, turning his wheelchair around so he could face his old friend, "This is important."


    Magneto tilted his head slightly, eyeing Charles with a stern gaze even as he kept Justin in his peripheral vision, "And you know as well? What is your game here, Charles?" There was a definite threat in his voice now.


    Justin thought Charles was supposed to be good at talking to Magneto?


    There was a slight vibration in the air, and Justin perhaps was imagining the slight groan of the building, even as he was well aware of the many many girders of steel in a building of this size. He hoped he was imagining it¡­


    "Mystique was caught infiltrating Mister Hammer''s London headquarters, and subsequently displayed concerning behavior when interrogated." Charles explained, raising a hand soothingly, "I sent Dr. McCoy to help investigate the matter, and there is definitely something wrong with her¡­" Charles sounded pained the longer he spoke about her, like an old wound was being prodded.


    Justin didn''t overly care, as long as the presence of the old man could prevent Magneto from ripping his London office apart to grab the compromised mutant. Also, what the fuck Charles? That''s the best you can do?


    Magneto did not look like he quite believed any of what he''d been told, sending a scathing look at Charles, "Convenient that she''s so mysteriously needed to be examined by your people all of a sudden Charles, you''ve never gotten over the fact she choose my side, have you?"


    Justin cut in before this could evolve into the ever present gay drama between the two men - that ultimately only killed plenty of young mutants and wrecked mutant kind - all so the two could continue to play kiss/kill. "You are welcome to see her and ascertain yourself what her condition is, I have no intention of holding on to her¡­ Frankly I have enough to deal with, you can handle fixing her¡­" He offered, surprising the master of magnetism.


    He obviously hadn''t expected Justin to be so eager to get rid of her. Which showed that the man really hadn''t been paying much attention to Mystique lately - because Justin really wanted her out, no matter how hot she was or how good the sex was - she was dangerous and a loose cannon, especially now.


    Magneto nodded slowly, "I will see her." He agreed, turning his head slowly back to Charles, "We will." He ordered, with narrowed eyes and a sneer on his lips, the sneer only deepening as Charles genially nodded his head in agreement, refusing to argue and give in to what Magneto wanted - a fight.


    Justin tapped the table ahead of him with a knuckle for good luck, before standing up, indicating he had nothing else to say about the meeting. "You can contact Phantazia for any particulars, she''s heading back to the London office, so she''ll handle any questions on Mystique or any necessary handover."


    Seeing that Magneto and Charles were busy in a stare down, he simply walked out, letting out a breath he hadn''t realized he''d been holding.


    Fucking stubborn old men¡­ He thought as he waved for Domino and Phantazia to follow him, leaving the building as quickly as was seemly. Just in case Magneto decided to go ape shit. It wasn''t very likely, but Justin just couldn''t trust the man - he was self sabotaging to the extreme.


    The important part of the meeting had simply been to ensure he wouldn''t stand in the way, Charles'' cooperation had already been guaranteed after all.


    That and getting Mystique the fuck away from him, and his company. Whatever was wrong with her wasn''t his business. Magneto could deal with it - she was his follower anyway.


    "Eileen," He spoke up as they exited the building, gaining the blonde''s attention, "I don''t care if it''s Xavier or Magneto, but get that woman out of my possession." He ordered. "They''ll be meeting you in London, get custody settled!"


    Eileen grimaced, but nodded reluctantly.


    Justin didn''t envy her the job, but that''s why he paid a fortune for her services. He knew they were friends, but he could not have her sitting like a time bomb in his building.


    If Mystique was going to blow up or something, he''d rather it happen to Magneto or Xavier than himself.


    Preferably both at the same time.


    Save him a headache.


    Overpowered fucking assholes¡­


    Why couldn''t everyone be nice and reasonable like him.


    <hr>


    A few hours later, the Mayor''s office, New York.


    Justin was in the middle of wrapping the mayor around his finger when they were interrupted by an aide rushing into the office, looking like he''d seen a ghost.


    "What is the meaning of this, Henderson?" The Mayor snapped, giving Justin an apologetic look.


    Justin gave the aide an annoyed glance, but didn''t think much of it as he leaned back in his chair, barely paying attention as the aide blabbered on towards the increasingly annoyed looking Mayor.


    "Sir, it''s Stark -" In the whispered conversation between the two, that one sentence was loud enough to get Justin''s attention.


    Justin bolted upright, "What was that about Stark?" He asked sharply, the man better not have gotten himself killed! He thought, feeling a stirring of something unpleasant in his gut.


    He wanted the man to see all he''d wrought and feel tiny. To understand he was left forever behind a superior man - yet still be fighting the good fight as Iron Man, ready to sacrifice himself for the world, so that Justin could continue to conquer it. He can not be dead yet!


    The aide, absolutely flustered at being spoken to by Justin, fumbled with a TV remote instead of answering, switching the wall mounted TV onto CNN.


    Justin''s mouth fell open as he stared, not believing his eyes.


    "-due to the injuries and trauma I faced, I''ve decided that the man who I''ve trusted to run Stark industries all this time, would be a better man to run it going forward." Tony Stark said solemnly, standing at a podium surrounded by reporters, Obadiah Stane at his side, one hand on his shoulder.


    Using his glasses to catalog everything, Justin found, to his uttermost shock, that every facial scan was a match. Injured, sure, but it was all authentically Tony Stark according to his software.


    Tony Stark stood there, in front of the cameras, slightly pale and bruised, and with a wounded look, continuing to speak about how he had never been able to handle the pressures of being a CEO to begin with.


    Justin''s hands forcibly clenched around armchair, the wood creaking, that is not Tony fucking Stark! He''d never say any of this! He inwardly screamed, eyes glued on the screen. The Mayor and his aide both transfixed by the press conference.


    "- I know due to concerns about my mental state, the transfer of the reins will not be immediate, I''ll need to undergo evaluations, but even so, I want to be the first to congratulate my Godfather, and the man who''d really done the work around here to build the company to where it is¡­" Tony stepped back a step, so he could offer his hand to Obadiah Stane, who solemnly and seriously grasped it. "I give you the future CEO of Stane industries everyone!" Tony yelled out, to incessant camera flashes and shouting reporters.


    Justin narrowed his eyes, almost biting through his lip as he stared with hatred at the screen. That was not Tony Stark. He didn''t give a shit what his facial scan had said, obviously it could be fooled. Because Tony Stark did not just give his company to that lumbering ignoramus.


    His thoughts ran rampant, how does he think he''ll get away with this? Is Tony¡­ Dead? No¡­ Perhaps he''s taking the opportunity, it''s going to be almost impossible to dislodge him even if Tony comes back¡­


    Justin had to face the possibility Tony was dead, he couldn''t discard reality for flights of fancy. Obadiah Stane had made a move. Whether Tony was dead or not¡­.


    It was up to Justin to decide what he would do.


    Either Tony came back to become Iron Man¡­ Or he was dead¡­


    Justin fished his phone out of his pocket, fingers almost trembling in rage.


    Either way I will not allow that fool to piss on my victory by stealing his company from underneath him!


    He dialed, snarling into the phone, beginning before it was even picked up, "Get my jet prepped for a flight to California, NOW!"


    Whatever fool managed to impersonate you Stark¡­ I''ll rip him apart, limb to limb¡­


    Only he was allowed to fuck Stark over, the man was his!


    <hr>

 Taunt is a valuable skill.

    <hr>


    Private jet, American airspace.


    For once the stupid fancy chair would come in use for something other than listening to people bicker about world issues they then inevitably massively overreacted to, Justin thought, as he made himself comfortable.


    The privacy feature of the system keeping Domino out of the conversation, not that he overly cared what she heard, at this point she knew more of his secrets then he did almost.


    With the press of a button, a request to speak with Fury was sent off, and unless he was in the middle of Armageddon - the man would have to hoof it to the secure room used for Security Council business and respond.


    Did it feel nice to have Nicholas J Fury as his bitch?


    Yes. Yes it did.


    While waiting for Fury, he thought over the situation, now that he had cooled down slightly from his immediate and murderous knee jerk reaction.


    How had Obadiah Stane done it? He didn''t know, and it frustrated him. Was it an android? Cloning tech? Magic? A Mutant?


    At least, he thought wryly, Mystique was off the suspect list.


    The last thing he needed was to have Magneto take an interest in multinational corporations.


    There were just too many possibilities to be able to accurately identify which avenue Stane had taken with the fake, with what little information he had. It rankled him something fierce that he had made the mistake of thinking Obadiah Stane would just wait, like in Canon - with all the changes Justin had made to the world.


    He wasn''t pigeonholed into canon everywhere else, stuck trying to make things go the same way, had in fact rejected that premise from the beginning, apart from the Afghanistan kidnapping - so it was on him that he hadn''t prepared for Stane making his own moves.


    He''d failed to anticipate Stane taking a stand - instead of meekly waiting around for information on Tony Stark''s circumstances.


    Seeing that the light for the call was still stuck on hold, he fished his phone out, flicking down the list of contacts to his likely least used contact, pressing the dial button.


    "It''s not him." A tired voice answered after a couple of rings.


    Justin smirked, unseen to the person he was speaking to, "Hello to you too, former Colonel Rhodes." He said dryly.


    There was silence on the line for a moment, before there was a deep sigh, "You don''t have to call me former Colonel everytime we speak, Hammer."


    Justin wondered how well those kinds of complaints had ever worked on Tony Stark and his habit of nicknaming anything or anyone that was around him long enough - if the good former Colonel thought Justin was easier¡­ Well the man just ensured he''d never stop.


    Besides, he took some amusement out of it every time he spoke to the good former Colonel, knowing he''d hired Stark''s best friend. Just something about it made him feel so very smug and pleased with himself now, even if he''d initially panicked.


    "Never mind that, former Colonel Rhodes." He said, drawing some pleasure from the pained sigh he drew out of the other man. "Explain how you already knew? Other than you haven''t fished him out of the desert yet¡­"


    If the man grabbed Tony Stark and didn''t tell him, he''d fire a missile up the bastard''s ass so fast¡­


    "Got a call from back home," Rhodes said, some anger leaking through the exhaustion, "Irregardless of how impossible it is for Tony to have been saved without anyone being aware until now, the fact he''s refusing access to Pepper and Happy and¡­ Someone else close to him¡­ It''s not Tony."


    Justin hummed in thought, that actually did help somewhat in narrowing down the options, obviously FTony did not have Tony''s knowledge in any way with this confirmation, so he needed to stay away from Pepper, Happy and Jarvis. So it likely wasn''t some sort of magic copy of the man, if they could copy his looks with magic, surely they''d at least be able to make him like Tony mentally as well.


    That was good, because Justin did not have any magical resources. His eyes narrowed, although just killing the fake wouldn''t need too many exotic resources anyway¡­


    The holographic display turned on, Fury having reached the council room, the man glaring up at Justin''s screen from where he stood. "What is it, Hammer? If you hadn''t noticed, the world is kind of on fire, and I have a job to do¡­"


    Considering he had fixed more issues than Fury had, that attitude was just annoying.


    Justin smiled at him, eyes practically glittering as he held a finger up, "One moment, I''m ordering pizza." He said, before hitting the mute button, leaning back in his chair, continuing to speak with Rhodes, even as Fury glared at him impotently, not able to just fluff off someone from the World Security Council.


    "I''m enroute to California, I will deal with this situation before Stane can push through the takeover." He promised, not sure yet on the how, other than a hastily dreamt up scenario where he just killed the fake and Stane and then pissed on their graves - but he''d find a way to get it done.


    The stopping them, not the pissing on the graves part.


    The other line was silent for a much longer time this time, but eventually Rhodes spoke up, "I don''t know why, what or how about anything you do, Hammer, but I''ll owe you one if you manage it." From the resigned tone of voice, former Colonel Rhodes was well aware Justin would cash in one day.


    Justin grinned like a shark, "Always a pleasure talking to you former Colonel Rhodes." He chirped, hanging up before the man could respond.


    He steepled his fingers and just sat there, thinking, waiting a few minutes after finishing his phone call before he finally unmuted Fury, speaking up before the aggravated man could, "Thank you for holding, pizza is serious business, but rest assured, you''re always my second or third priority, Fury."


    "It''s not necessary to continue to play these games, Hammer." The one eyed leader of SHIELD said cooly.


    Justin chuckled, wagging a finger, a teasing smile on his face, "Ah, ah, ah! Don''t start lying to me now, Director! Playing these kinds of games is exactly what you do to your subordinates." He cocked his head slightly, thinking it over, "Just with less flair."


    Fury didn''t dignify that with an answer, just standing perfectly still, staring at him, before eventually drawling out, "If this is about Stark, stay out of it." He warned clippedly, lone eye narrowing.


    Justin leaned forward slightly, he''d assumed Fury would be able to tell immediately, but this sounded like the man was actually going to do something, "Oh? What exactly do you know, Fury? And why should I stay away?" Justin challenged, with Fury it could always be a simple fishing expedition - to find out what Justin knew.


    Fury gave him a measured look, likely debating how likely it was that Justin would keep annoying him if he refused to share.


    Justin gave the man a wide grin, steepling his fingers in front of his face, showcasing his absolute intention to be a giant pain in the ass until Fury gave up the details. As a World Security Council member, he had the clearance anyway.


    And the limited ability to boss Fury around in some aspects.


    Fury obviously came to the same conclusion, because he reluctantly began to speak, "We''ve always kept a close eye on Tony Stark, therefore we have amongst our ranks, people whose job it is to be experts on the man. One press conference isn''t solid data, but enough for them to decry his behavior."


    "Could just be PTSD¡­" Justin let out mildly, playing devil''s advocate, because just agreeing with Fury would hardly give him more information.


    Fury obviously saw exactly what he was doing, but chose to continue on, flatly expounding on the subject, "Possible, but unlikely to lead to such drastic changes in both personal and professional life as what we''ve noticed just in a few hours." Fury paused for a moment, seemingly deciding whether to continue to share or not, before continuing, "Our main avenue of contention isn''t one speedy press conference and the denial of access to anyone remotely close to Stark anyway. There is no way to remove Stark from Afghanistan without anyone from SHIELD finding out about it, it''s that simple."


    "You sound very sure about that." Justin muttered, thinking on his own team on the ground, and wondering if they could achieve such a result.


    Fury slashed a hand through the air dismissively, "Stane is not that good. We would have heard something." He grimaced slightly, looking reluctant to continue sharing, but going on anyway, "And¡­ We inserted someone close to Stane not too long ago." He admitted, looking like he''d bitten into something sour.


    Justin wondered about that, what exactly Stane thought he''d do - if agencies like SHIELD would arrive to begin poking their noses in. Surely the man must have a plan beyond just a takeover of Stark industries? "Who did you send in?" He asked, watching Fury''s reaction closely.


    The way the man immediately clammed up completely, removing any tells, did its job for Justin - as in its own way, it was revealing enough.


    That''s just too funny¡­ Honeypot again? I almost feel bad for her.


    "Natashalie¡­ Huh?" He almost purred out, rubbing his hands together, "Well we''ve worked together before, kind of." Certainly worked ''intimately'' close together¡­


    Fury kept his silence, neither confirming or denying who''d been sent to infiltrate Stane''s circle.


    Justin took that as confirmation, and with Extremis pulsing through his veins, the woman couldn''t even take revenge properly on him anyway, even if she could, leashed to SHIELD as she was. "It will be a treat to see her again!" He said cheerfully, carefully watching the SHIELD director.


    Fury finally replied, his one eye glaring hard at Justin, "Hammer, this is an active SHIELD operation now, stay out of it!" Then, as if realizing how any kind of order given to a World Security Council member might come back to bite him if Justin disseminated it amongst the members, he took on a more cautious tone, "As a World Security Council member, you''re not cleared for field operations."


    Justin''s grin widened, "Sounds like you''ll have to provide me with a bodyguard then, because I''m absolutely going to get involved. So either join me, or stand back."


    Of course an anal retentive manipulator like Fury who couldn''t stand not having at least one hand on the wheel - wouldn''t let Justin just interfere on his own without any clue what part of their operation he was interfering in anyway.


    Checkmate, you one eyed bastard! Justin thought, still smirking at the man, as he awaited the already natural conclusion to this discussion.


    Fury grit his teeth together, the audio in the connection so good he could hear Fury''s leather gloves creaking as he clenched his fists. "Agents Coulson and Barton will meet you when you land." He growled out, a very displeased mien on his face.


    Justin clapped his hands together, "Wonderful! The other two parts of team Natashalie, you''ve really pulled out all the stops on this!" Kind of suspicious in a way¡­ Stark isn''t Iron Man yet, why are they pulling out all the stops right now?


    Food for thought, perhaps Domino could tease it out of the two agents, when they all met. Of course, once I''ve prodded the SHIELD agents of their Intel, I can just ditch them anyway, let Fury protect me¡­ From afar.


    Isn''t that Hawkeyes thing anyway?


    "Is that all, Hammer?" Fury growled out, not able to leave without being dismissed, not with how he was already walking on thin ice with the rest of the council.


    "Pineapple on pizza? For or against?" Justin asked casually, having to bite his lip to prevent an honest to god giggle breaking out as Fury stared at him in utter disgust, the call breaking as Fury decided to take his chances.


    Hanging up on him? How rude!


    Fury''s loss. Really, if anything he''d learned over the last two years or so held true - it was that taking everything too seriously all the time just degraded performance and reliability, as stress levels skyrocketed.


    With that in mind, Justin shot off a text to Sunil, "Please have some interns or something call every pizza place in DC, order 100 large Pineapple pizzas for the Triskelion, pay for them, but have them all delivered to one Nicholas J Fury."


    Ah, it worked, his murderous rage was already down to a low simmer, being rich enough to fuck with anyone really was a boon. Really, he was being nice enough to pay for SHIELD to have lunch, so it wasn''t even a prank.


    Domino looked down at her phone, from where she was relaxing on one of the couches, her nose scrunching up, "Why is Elena texting me asking if you''re okay, boss?"


    Justin smirked, walking over to the bar, pouring himself some scotch, "Perhaps she doesn''t like pineapples?" He mused out loud, savoring the sip of expensive scotch, as he enjoyed the time he had before he''d have more work on his hands.


    Domino looked at him weirdly, "I''m not sure what to even say to that. I''m missing something¡­" She muttered, beginning to type a text, presumably back to Elena.


    "No, she does like pineapples boss!" Domino said a minute later.


    Justin didn''t really know why that struck him as funny, but he laughed enough that it freaked out Domino,


    Which only made him laugh harder.


    <hr>


    Private airfield, LAX, California.


    "I can''t believe we''re actually allowing this¡­" Clint Barton muttered, feeling a little weird holding his bow while wearing a full penguin suit.


    "I am definitely rocking this suit, though, do you think Laura will want a picture?"


    "It''s the kind of suit that would definitely look better on the floor, if you know what I mean?"


    "Coulson, why aren''t you answering me?"


    "Cooouuulsooon!"


    "Agent Barton, maintain radio silence." Phil Coulson finally answered over the crackling radio, drawing a grin out of Clint, that was definitely the - I''m slightly annoyed but I''m going to give you a chance - tone to this voice.


    He toggled the radio to reply, when he saw the gate for the private airstrip at LAX moving aside, letting three armored SUV''s through.


    "Coulson." He warned over the radio, aligning an arrow in case things were about to get interesting. Hammer had already had a pretty high profile assassination attempt against him, it wouldn''t look good if it happened on their watch.


    Why, exactly, they were even entertaining Hammer, was apparently above his pay grade.


    Would have been good to know¡­ You know, in case he died here and never knew why? The radio crackled to life again, "Stand down, Barton, it''s Hammer''s security."


    "You sure¡­?" Clint asked, aligning the perfect shot with one of his specialty arrows, one that would attach an explosive putty to the gas tank, and then voila, no more armored SUV. "Could be fake, meant to lure us in¡­"


    Coulson replied dryly, "I''m sure, their team lead is who I''ve been talking to for the past five minutes."


    Clint sighed, relaxing his bow string, "Not today, darling." He said, patting it gently, before toggling the radio again, "Hey¡­ Any reason I wasn''t made aware of the friendlies?" He complained lightly, even as he examined them with a critical eye as they exited the vehicles and began setting up a perimeter, Clint waving to one of them when the man immediately put a scope on him, with his sniper rifle.


    The guy probably wanted the same perch he''d already taken.


    There was a moment of silence, before Coulson, even drier than before, replied, "You must have missed it somewhere, between your own violations of radio protocols."


    "Yeah¡­ So can you make it so they don''t shoot me?" Clint said, still waving with one hand as even more gun sights turned his way. Seemed Hammer didn''t skimp on security, these guys were kitted out to hell and back, and they certainly moved like professionals.


    "Just get down here, Agent Barton." Coulson replied long sufferingly. "If you get shot, at least you can study protocols during your convalescence."


    Wow, Coulson is really not looking forward to this either, Clint thought, wondering briefly if Coulson knew more about how Hammer knew so much, that he wasn''t sharing with Clint¡­


    Guess waiting time is over! Clint thought right after, hearing the roar of a jet, as he began to climb down from his perch, the men that were not busy setting a perimeter, never once taking their guns off him.


    I wonder if I could get away with socking him one in the jaw for Nat?


    His eyes darkened as he thought about the fact Hammer had known about the family farm, or sock him one for me¡­


    As soon as he got down, Coulson was already there, and with how close to Clint he''d decided to stand¡­


    He knew how much Clint itched to talk to the bastard, alone.


    Some other time, Hammer, he promised, watching the descending jet.


    <hr>


    Justin exited the jet, talking with Domino, who was watching the welcoming crew, exchanging a few hand signals with the security team leader, "Remind me to have Vanko cook up a drone or two of remote controlled armor to bring on the jet." He told her, shielding his eyes with one hand from the sun, as he looked down at the SHIELD contingent, his lips curling slightly at the sight of Hawkeye. "I hadn''t realized until now just how vulnerable we are in the air, counting on just your power."


    Domino glanced at him, "Just my power?" She said teasingly, "Aren''t you supposed to be good at talking to women? That wasn''t very nice at all!"


    Justin gave her a wry look, taking the last few steps down the stairs and onto the tarmac, "You''re well aware of what I mean, don''t be an annoyance today, please."


    Domino gave him a mocking salute, before she put her game face on, facing off against the SHIELD agents.


    The SHIELD contingent tried to step forward, only to face the sudden hum of energy weapons, the security team lead, shaking his head at them, "You move when we say you move." He said gruffly, before glancing back at Justin.


    Justin contemplated leaving them there for a few minutes, but it would essentially only delay himself, so he rolled his eyes and waved them through, pointing at Coulson and Barton, the other SHIELD mooks with them, held back by his security once they stepped through.


    "Hello Mister Hammer, I''m Agent Coulson and this is Agent Barton, we''re from the Strategic Homeland Intervention Enforcement and Logistics Division." Coulson said blandly, stepping forward with his hand out for a handshake.


    Justin shook his head, shaking the man''s hand, "I believe you''re the only one that ever uses that long name, Phil¡­ How are you doing, Clint?" He said in a friendly manner, a glint in his eyes.


    He was still angry, but he could put it to good use, annoying Hawkeye and Agent Agent. It''s not like SHIELD would get to stay around once he was done with HYDRA one day¡­ So they were no threat to him, not really.


    Especially Clint, with his lovely and so easy to reach, weaknesses. Speaking of¡­ "How is the family? Is the farm doing okay?" He asked mockingly, quietly enough only the four of them could hear, just as Clint reached out with his own hand to shake.


    Clint''s expression froze, his hand clasped with Justin''s, and just as it looked like he was going to do something stupid, like pull Justin in, to threaten him or something equally moronic, Domino clicked off the safety on one of her guns, the sound loud in the sudden silence between them.


    That''s all she did, standing there, a raised eyebrow on her face - but Clint released Justin''s hand, backing off, an annoyed expression on his face, "They''re fine." He mumbled out, stepping back further, Coulson stepping ahead of him, a pleasant expression on his face that showed just how good of an actor the man was. Because Justin could practically feel the chill from the man''s gaze, and yet he didn''t show it at all in his expression. "We''ve been tasked to liaise with you and your people, Mister Hammer, to avoid unnecessary issues."


    From just how blandly Agent Coulson said that, Justin could tell how annoyed the man was to have Justin poking in on their operation.


    He wouldn''t have to worry, Justin wouldn''t entertain them for too long.


    "You seem to be missing someone though¡­" Justin said amusedly, lips quirked into a half grin, "Where''s dear Natashalie at?" And your wordplay is cute, agent, but I massively outrank you, and you''re not going to stop me from doing literally anything I want¡­


    "It would be better to speak about such things in a more secure location." Agent Coulson demurred, "We have a serviceable outpo-"


    Justin interrupted him casually, noting that Coulson didn''t even blink, while Clint clenched his fists in annoyance or outrage, on behalf of his mentor. "I''ll text you the address, we''re moving out right now."


    His security team began moving immediately at that order, several of them standing between the SHIELD mooks and Justin still, ensuring they behaved.


    Domino handed Coulson a phone, as Justin walked off, whistling happily to himself, already crafting text messages through his glasses, sending out orders to his people in Los Angeles.


    While he was here, there was plenty of business that could be taken care of on the west coast. Mixing business with pleasure, or was it business with murder?


    "Put your number in, please." Domino said pleasantly, taking the phone back immediately upon Coulson complying, "See you in Malibu!" She said, winking at them, before she jogged off after Justin.


    "What''s in Malibu?" She could barely hear Agent Barton ask, as she skipped away.


    "Complications." Coulson said succinctly, raising his phone to his ear, "Sir you''re not going to li-"


    She laughed to herself as she caught up to Justin, just shaking her head as he gave her a questioning look.


    Working for a multi-billionaire was just great, the look on people''s faces when they realized they couldn''t push or talk back¡­


    It was just like candy to her.


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    When she entered the armored limousine to the sight of caviar and lobster and Dom P¨¦rignon, she had to admit the other perks were pretty fantastic too.


    And to think, she wasn''t even sleeping with him!


    <hr>


    Cairo, Egypt.


    Sunil Bakshi looked askance at what one of his underlings called a report, noting down in the margins to have him either demoted or assassinated, whichever was cheaper.


    A factual report should not consist of copious amounts of mistakes as well as supposition and theories instead of facts.


    If he wanted guesswork, he would ask for it¡­


    Not surprisingly, he had never asked for his less capable underlings to insert their opinions in factual reports. They were always substandard to his own.


    He''d returned to Cairo to keep looking after their rapid pace expansion in Africa, while his boss was busy with another pet project of his. If there was anything about working for Justin Hammer that actually managed to get under Sunil''s skin, it was his propensity for getting flights of fancy and disappearing off on one quest or another, leaving much of the work to Sunil, although at least he had Elena to assist now as well.


    He watched her idly, as she flitted too and fro, always on a call with someone, greasing the wheels of progress, working tirelessly to achieve the goals their boss had set.


    It was perhaps because of her obvious loyalty that he hadn''t bothered reporting who she was yet. Outing her as a Black Widow would likely - at least in the short term - pull her away from her job, which would further inconvenience Sunil. He''d run extensive background checks on the woman, even managing fingerprints and DNA swabs when she''d passed out on one of their long nights of work.


    He knew as much as he could know about her. Without talking to her about it, anyway. He was certain that she didn''t mean his boss any harm, Domino wouldn''t have managed to hire her and slip her through all the checks they had if she was working to kill him.


    Of course, he''d researched and tested Domino in the days after his discovery, just to ensure she hadn''t been compromised somehow. Funnily enough, even the periodic tests the woman still did of his loyalty, the question of - do you know if anyone near Justin Hammer is a black widow - never came up.


    Usually such a question wasn''t necessary, but considering how he''d now slept with two of them, perhaps it should be.


    The more wide question of are you hiding any information that could harm Justin Hammer, apparently didn''t quantify his knowledge on Yelena, as harmful, so he passed those tests as well.


    He''d have to discuss that at some point, make the testing more conclusive, if he wasn''t actually loyal, he''d know several ways to fool the testing now. It would be a poor showing of his loyalty if someone else slipped through the cracks.


    He returned to his work, putting the matter temporarily out of his mind, it really isn''t my business, even knowing beforehand won''t harm me overly much, not with things as they stand. His lips twitched slightly, and it is very amusing to watch while knowing the background, he thought.


    One of his phones rang, one with a very peculiar ringtone, to make sure he always answered it with priority. "Dr. Cho? Is anything the matter?" He asked smoothly, hiding his worry behind a polite facade.


    Simple politeness and kindness often helped ensure people were in a more relaxed mindframe, making it easier for Sunil to manage them. For such a small thing, it really wasn''t much of a sacrifice to continue being polite no matter who he spoke to.


    His other hand reached his laptop and began bringing up the program for her research bunker, just in case. There couldn''t be any chances with this particular project.


    Project Kilgrave had received the utmost importance from their boss as to containment measures. Including Sunil having the capacity to sanitize the entire facility - and the surrounding area, at the press of a button.


    Helen Cho sounded downcast as she answered, "I¡­ I have succeeded, and failed." The bright young scientist mumbled.


    Sunil had taken quite a bit of pleasure out of the burgeoning situation between her cultist like fanaticism and their Boss'' reluctance to shoot her down. This entire company was way better than any soap operas.


    Considering he didn''t actually have any free time - he didn''t think it unreasonable that he took enjoyment where he could.


    "I''m going to need you to explain that further. In detail." Sunil said mildly. Fingers flying over the keyboard as he brought up all the particulars of the lab, the command to detonate not far from his mind.


    Doctor Cho took a deep breath, before beginning her explanation. "I finally had a breakthrough in the project, and in my eagerness to provide for Jus- I mean Mister Hammer, I continued forward without the proper safety precautions."


    "I see. That is, you understand, very concerning to me?" Sunil said slowly, typing in the command, just waiting for confirmation before he blew a whole block away.


    Doctor Cho hiccuped slightly, and Sunil took the phone away from his ear and looked at it in askance, was she crying?


    "I didn''t mean to, I mean, I succeeded, I managed to craft a vial of material that according to my theories and tests will work on a subject." She mumbled, sounding both elated and dejected at the same time, confusing Sunil.


    "That is¡­ Good, is it not?" He asked, feeling some slight trepidation at bottled mind control being available to anyone, even his boss.


    "No!" She wailed, making Sunil wince, as he''d returned the phone to his ear, "I overstepped in my excitement, did too much damage! Kilgrave is dying, and I don''t have the ability to fix him through this stupid system!"


    Ah, the crux of the matter¡­ Sunil thought it over, realizing that there was no way to get someone in to assist, not with the security precautions they had in place. Likewise there was nothing they could do to get into the deepest section of the lab to heal Kilgrave, not to mention the fact that if the man was dying, he might need Panacea or Extremis, something Mister Hammer would never authorize, especially now that there had already been an overreach. "You''re certain he is going to perish?" He asked, to make sure.


    Doctor Cho sounded devastated as she replied, "Yes, he has less than a few hours to live."


    "Secure the vial and your notes, a team will be extracting you post haste. I will contact Mister Hammer and advise him of the situation." Sunil ordered, adding, "And do not worry, I will stress your valued contribution to Mister Hammer, one vial is still more than nothing at all out of this project."


    As he continued to reassure the young scientist as she packed up, he sent orders for four of their most trusted security teams to extract the woman, and deliver her to Mister Hammer, he didn''t want any chance of that vial, or the woman, going missing or something on the way.


    He typed up an email, and sent it to his boss, knowing that with priority ranking, it would flash on his glasses immediately.


    Not surprisingly, he received a text back as a reply a few minutes later.


    "Blow it once you''ve secured the vial and Cho, full security team coverage, get her to me ASAP."


    Sunil smirked, glad to have already preemptively ordered exactly what his boss wanted.


    A few hours later, he initiated the destruction of the base.


    Forever burying Kilgrave.


    All in all, feeling quite pleased to have that threat removed from the equation, one vial was dangerous, but much more manageable than mass produced mind control.


    Sunil really liked his boss and his job, and saw Justin Hammer''s vision as the true hope of humanity. That didn''t mean he was blind to his faults.


    He really wouldn''t trust his boss with unlimited mind control.


    Words could not express how happy he was at how the situation had been resolved.


    He sent a note of praise for her achievement and warning of Doctor Cho''s despondent state to his boss, helping the girl out a bit.


    As a small thank you.


    And because it would be amusing to continue to pour fuel on the fire for her frankly hilarious crush.


    Real life soap operas.


    They were just missing the evil twins now.


    Then he thought about the reveal of the fake Tony Stark, blinking.


    Huh.


    <hr>


    Tony Stark''s Malibu Mansion.


    "The director urges you to reconsider." Agent Coulson said, as they all walked up to the repaired mansion, no sign of the previous damage in its exterior.


    Justin shook his head at him, a pithy look on his face, "I''ve already called ahead, and it would be frightfully rude to stand up a lady, also, I am of course perfectly liable to do the exact opposite of anything Nick Fury says, on principle, do consider that for your next bout of pleading and whining."


    Was he laying it on a bit thick? Yes. Was the humor and constant sniping at the bumbling SHIELD idiots keeping his simmering anger manageable, also yes. So he saw no reason to stop anytime soon.


    Clint Barton, a sour look on his face as he followed behind Agent Coulson, spoke up, "So all we have to do is tell you that the Director does want you to involve another civilian in all this and you''ll stop?" He asked sarcastically.


    Justin rang the doorbell, adjusting his tie, ensuring he was presentable, answering Clint without bothering to turn around, "Of course not," He scoffed, "Where did you get a crazy idea like that?"


    From the way Domino suddenly burst into sniggers, Clint likely looked very frustrated right about now. I''m a billionaire, I don''t have to make sense! Justin thought mockingly. Gaining a suave smile as the door opened up.


    Pepper Potts stood in the doorway, glaring at Justin, before her eyes flickered to the SHIELD contingent, some wariness entering her eyes.


    "Dear Miss Potts, not to worry, these are just my government given flying monkeys, here to fetch me coffee and what have you." He waved a hand negligently at the agents, "They really don''t matter, pretend they''re not even here."


    "I''m getting really tired of this¡­" He heard Clint mutter to Agent Coulson, but there was no reply, Agent Coulson stepping up next to Justin, smiling with a little bit more life in it then when he''d greeted Justin.


    "Hello, Miss Potts, I am Agent Coulson, and this is Agent Barton, we''re with the Strategic Homeland Intervention Enforcement and Logistics Division."


    She raised an unimpressed eyebrow, her eyes going from Justin to Agent Coulson, "Bit of a mouthful isn''t it?" She asked, looking pensive.


    Before Agent Coulson could try and take over this meeting, Justin intervened, "They just desperately wanted to spell SHIELD, that''s what happens when comic book nerds get into the government." He said dismissively, "Think of them as a mix of the FBI and the CIA but with severely bloated egos, now to move away from pointless government wage slaves I do believe we have a common goal here. I''ve spoken to former Colonel Rhodes as well, and he''s informed me that you are aware of this¡­ Fake." The last was said with a spasm running through his face as he held back the spiteful words he really wanted to say about the situation.


    Pepper Potts glared at him, her cheeks flushing slightly in anger, "That James vouches for your intentions is the only reason I am even entertaining your help, Mister Hammer." She said coldly, before stepping back, gesturing for them to enter.


    Before he could get more than a foot in the door, Happy Hogan was suddenly there, gruffly calling out, "No one''s coming in armed." Giving Justin a level stare that said that the man really wanted Justin to make a big deal about it.


    Justin just smirked, gesturing to himself, "I''m not armed today, but feel free to feel me up if that is your intention, Mister Hogan." Inwardly he was slightly annoyed, but could hardly make a scene, considering his people had attacked this exact home and assaulted Pepper.


    So the fact they were taking basic safety precautions was hardly anything he could complain about.


    He''d just get some minor petty revenge later, his bubbling feelings of anger and resentment broiling just under the surface - would not allow him to let any disrespect go, he wanted people to pay for screwing up his plans.


    He''d just take a few chunks more out of Obadiah Stane, that ought to settle it.


    They were soon all escorted by a wary Happy, into the living area, Jarvis no doubt keeping overwatch and watching their every reaction and gesture for further analysis.


    Justin walked up to the bar, helping himself, feeling his smirk growing as Happy twitched slightly, and Pepper frowned at him unhappily at the rudeness. He turned around, swirling the liquid in his glass, feeling everyone in the room except Domino - looking at him with great dislike.


    This. This he was used to, this he could thrive in. Antagonism was so useful, because when you suddenly acted reasonable, they couldn''t help but agree, not wanting to seem unreasonable themselves, and in a way, ''rewarding'' him for suddenly being so agreeable.


    Not that he necessarily planned to be agreeable today¡­


    Most people really were nothing but blunt objects, meant to be led around by those more capable. It made him wonder how on earth humanity had actually succeeded to even get to the point of creating someone like him.


    Oh wait, he literally had to come from another earth to make this perfect match¡­ He remembered, so maybe the normal humans weren''t too much to blame.


    They were still stupid blunt objects and destined to continue their sheep mentality however.


    He took a small sip of the amber liquid, enjoying the good quality, his eyes finding Pepper''s guarded ones, now here''s a woman that''s anything but a blunt object, he thought. Giving her a long once over, from the beautiful long legs to her perfectly styled hair.


    There was an uncomfortable feeling in the room for a moment, as everyone but Domino stared at him in various states of anger or distrust, or blandness if you counted Coulson.


    "So let''s get down to business, fake Tony, what do we know?" Justin asked cheerfully, slowly sipping at the drink as the rest of them found seats. Except Happy Hogan who stood just behind Pepper''s seat.


    He attempted to look menacing, but with Wakandans, super soldiers, and whatnot, a retired boxer just didn''t even register as a threat.


    There was a moment of silence as everyone looked at each other, seeing who would go first, before Agent Coulson took the step, no doubt already aware that Justin would just force the information out sooner rather than later anyway, and it would look better for them to provide it freely. "We were curious about some transactions and moves made by Obadiah Stane since Tony Stark''s disappearance, so we inserted an agent into his inner circle."


    A diplomatic way of saying Natashalie was going to end up killing her fellow agents if they didn''t send her for an undercover mission to get away from it all¡­ Justin thought, eyes glinting behind his glasses, as he got a sly look on his face, "Oh? Who''s Natashalie banging this time? Really, she should be changing careers, her skills seem kind of¡­ One note." He taunted.


    Agent Coulson gave him a heavy look, as Clint didn''t bother hiding the murderous look he sported, sitting next to him, "The agent in question," He stressed, lips thin, "Has only been in place for two weeks, and have not yet gained Stane''s full confidence."


    Pepper broke in, hand briefly touching a Bluetooth device in her ear. "His new secretary, Natalie Dormer, that''s your agent?" She asked.


    Some quick work there Jarvis¡­ Justin thought amusedly, hiding his grin behind the glass of alcohol.


    Agent Coulson looked at Pepper with a hint of surprise, eyes flickering to the Bluetooth device, "...Yes." He said reluctantly.


    "Well, whether she''s banging Obadiah Stane or not," Justin gave off a fake shudder, the sly smirk on his face not falling off for even a second, "She must have surely at least seen the fake Tony, if she was within Stane''s circle?" He queried, "Did she pick up anything about who, or what, he is?"


    Clint answered, an unamused look on his face as he glared at Justin, "She is not, so back off, Hammer." He growled, twitching slightly as Coulson turned his way, not saying anything, just looking at him, "...She hasn''t been able to report in regularly, they turtled up after the reveal." He revealed bitterly.


    Someone still held a grudge. Good. Not one Avenger should get comfortable around him, Justin thought, thinking Hawkeye should be glad he had revealed that he knew about his family only to Natasha, not to all and sundry.


    Fury should have taken it as a cue to investigate SHIELD harder, but¡­ Recent events might have put a crimp in any continuation of that.


    Justin raised a mocking eyebrow at Clint, "So you''ve got nothing? What a surprise¡­" He took another drink, letting out a pleased sound afterwards, looking utterly relaxed even amongst these nominal enemies. "Domino can get to her and get her report." He offered casually.


    "We¡­ Appreciate the offer." Coulson said carefully, giving the mercenary a cautious look, to which she gave him a cheerful wave and a cocky smirk in response, "But we''d prefer to keep this operation as clean as possible."


    In other words, you don''t trust me, and you definitely don''t want me near Natasha, heh, wonder why? Justin took another sip of his drink, wondering if she''d actually try to kill him, or if she''d gotten over it, as cold as she could be, it was a possibility.


    Justin shrugged in the end, turning to Pepper, not seeing any need to follow Coulson''s guideline, if they got no information back, Domino could get it out, "Any information on your side, Miss Potts? I am aware you have tools we lack." He asked with a bit of humor, since he had a literal copy of Jarvis in storage.


    Pepper bit her lip, her clear dislike of him obviously warring with the fact he was one of the only people who was actually helping.


    That must really be a one of a kind mind fuck.


    "There were absolutely no signs in Stark industries servers, offices, or amongst its staff that Tony had returned to the states, or that he was even alive." She said slowly, her voice almost choked up in anger, her eyes flashing with emotion, as she continued, "No Stark industries plane, vehicle, or account was used to transfer him to America, it''s as if he simply appeared one day, no record anywhere of how he got here." Happy put a hand on her shoulder, for comfort, and Pepper grasped it with her own.


    Coulson cleared his throat, "There are actually flight plans filed, custom checks filled out, and records of Stark flying into America. Very good forgeries, including a very insistent customs clerk who insists she checked Tony Stark through a private airport, with a temporary passport provided by the US embassy in Afghanistan."


    Clint took over, a grim countenance on his face, "We checked with our people in Afghanistan, and even the embassy there has a record of the passport in their electronic system - but no one has any memory of actually filing it, or seeing Stark. Someone hacked in and inserted it, and they also did the same in the database of every agency who had a check on the borders."


    Justin hummed in thought, from the sounds of it, even SHIELD had gotten these fake files inserted into their system. That was actually slightly impressive - or it was HYDRA behind this. "If one didn''t know Stark, and was just checking the paperwork trail, it would pass muster¡­" He mused out loud, "That''s why he''s gone into seclusion, because whatever way Stane is doing this, the fake can''t pass as Tony to anyone who knows him¡­"


    He eyed Pepper and Happy with a contemplative look, "He''s not seen either of you has he?"


    They both shook their heads, unhappy expressions on their faces, "We haven''t been fired." Pepper said emotionally, "Not officially anyway, but we''ve been told to stay out of the office until ''Tony'' is more settled." An unhappy snort showed exactly what she thought about that.


    Justin wondered how Obadiah expected to make this stick, Tony would have to ''die'' in some way, he supposed - after the transfer had gone through and had a month or two to settle, so that people would be less suspicious in general. People like SHIELD would always be suspicious as a matter of course, but perhaps he thought he could buy them off with cheap weapons?


    He eyed Coulson thoughtfully, honestly¡­ It could probably work. Certain factions within SHIELD would probably take the deal, and if Tony was actually dead¡­ Fury himself would likely take the deal for weapons, rather than ruin it all for a dead man.


    It was a real dichotomy of a situation¡­ In one way it reeked of a desperation play from Obadiah, a fool taking too many chances, too many risks, sloppily. Yet¡­ On the other hand, hacking government agencies, inserting actual paper copies, creating an almost perfect paper trail¡­ Either hypnotizing, replacing, owning - the customs employee that swore that Tony Stark passed through¡­ Those were not the actions of a sloppy man.


    "There''s someone else involved." He said, not caring about sharing the information with SHIELD as long as it assisted in removing the fake, "Stane is being hasty, taking risks, even if it had been the real Tony Stark giving his company away, he''d face too much scrutiny at how quickly this is moving."


    There''s just no way to hand over the reins that quickly in this situation, no matter what mental health evaluation they bribe their way through. If they moved too quick, the government would invalidate it claiming the fake Tony was mentally incapable.


    Coulson nodded sharply, "He has someone else who''s doing the legwork."


    Trust a spy to cotton on quickly, Justin thought, nodding at Coulson, "The government mook is correct, it''s likely that however Stane got a convincing enough fake, it came from the actors also providing the trail."


    He''d changed a lot about the world, but Stane was the same person who''d stupidly left evidence on his work computer in Canon¡­ So he can''t have changed too much, he either hired, or was approached by, someone else¡­


    "Then what do we do?" Pepper asked bitingly, her fingers whitening as she clenched her hands together harshly in her lap, "Can you arrest him with that?"


    Coulson immediately shook his head, "We don''t actually have any proof that Obadiah Stane has done anything illegal, yet."


    Justin laughed, drawing eyes to him, "Oh, that''s funny, arrest him? No, no, I''m not here to play cops and robbers." He said menacingly.


    Clint stood up abruptly, face grim, "You''re not above the law, Hammer!" He said coldly, "Do not overstep." Coulson sat still, watching him with intense eyes, as if to divine his intentions.


    Playing by the rules, that''s a silly idea, especially coming from SHIELD agents that constantly broke more laws then they protected¡­


    Domino chuckled, crossing one leg over her knee, face wry, "isn''t he though?" She asked teasingly.


    "Even the rich and famous have to follow the law." Pepper told his bodyguard seriously, her eyes flickering to Justin afterwards, "Even you, Hammer." The distrust in her eyes that went with that statement, told Justin a lot.


    It appeared his attempts to shift blame towards SHIELD for the break in, and Stane for the disappearance of Stark, hadn''t worked with the woman. A pity, he''d have liked to give her a job offer.


    Hmm, he thought, why not? It will piss Stark off once he''s found¡­ He''ll make her CEO one day, but he''ll always know I offered her that title first!


    "Changing the subject, so your virgin ears don''t combust, could I interest you in a CEO position, Miss Potts, my pharmaceutical company perhaps? Or maybe you''d enjoy running the charity wing, HammerTech?" Justin offered, surprising everyone in the room.


    Happy Hogan was literally steaming at his audacity, looking like he''d love to go a round or two with him.


    Heh, punching Iron Man''s bodyguard in the face might be an enjoyable pastime actually, he thought, smirking at the man.


    Pepper tilted her chin up, giving him a look of absolute disgust, "Not for anything in the world would I work for you!"


    Justin finished his drink, smacking his lips, "Not even if I could bring Tony out of Afghanistan, my team is working on it after all, say I give them more of an incentive if you come work for me?" He offered, not really serious, but enjoying stirring shit up.


    "You absolute monster!" Happy growled, stepping forward, one hand returning to Pepper''s shoulder, as the woman suddenly looked indecisive and heartbroken.


    Justin just grinned, "Offers there anytime." He said casually, giving a wave to Domino, as he began walking out, there''s nothing more I can get out of these people.


    "Hammer, where are you going?" Clint said roughly, standing in the way all of a sudden, "You can''t just go off on your own, especially not with how you hinted at doing something illegal!"


    Justin didn''t even stop his stride, Clint suddenly finding himself on the back foot as Domino danced around him, making him stumble back, his face confused as he kept trying to defend himself but kept slipping or stepping down wrong, just in general being very unlucky.


    Justin stepped past the tiny scuffle, sniffing imperiously, "A clumsy man like you, Hawkeye? You''re going to stop me? Please¡­" He continued on, Domino following him, only stopping so she could put her guns back in their holsters from the box Happy had put them in by the entrance.


    Coming here at all had been a mistake, entertaining SHIELD to soothe his anger, had been a mistake. The knowledge they each had wasn''t worthless per say, but also did nothing special for him. He could have found it out himself.


    No¡­


    He''d do this his way.


    He was big enough now that he didn''t need to pussyfoot around a non-entity like Obadiah Stane.


    What did he have that was special? Nothing.


    <hr>


    Hours later, Hammer industries Los Angeles office.


    Justin hung up the phone, eyes twitching in annoyance.


    Obadiah Stane should be jumping over the moon to get a chance to see Justin, the potential windfall for the fool in any kind of business deal or collaboration alone should see to it.


    So why can''t I find the motherfucker! He growled inwardly, having spent over an hour now on just trying to arrange a face to face, or failing that, a phone call. With absolutely no success. He was being completely stonewalled, which didn''t make sense.


    Stane would know Justin''s low opinion of Stark, there should be no reason to keep him away. It''s not like the idiot could possibly know Justin intended to wring him out like a wet towel until there was nothing left.


    His thoughts were interrupted as he received a priority call.


    He answered it immediately, "This better be good news, Maya, I am not in the mood for anymore fuck ups!"


    Maya Hansen answered back in a measured tone that gave Justin no hint to her feelings, "It is good news, I have produced two viable subjects."


    Justin''s mind raced as he shed his antipathy, it wasn''t Maya he was so angry with anyway, "Truly¡­ You''ve managed to mix Extremis and the Super Soldier formula?"


    He knew they were still working on repeating the actual super soldier formula from scratch, with Dr Nagel assisting Maya on that project, but she''d also had a secondary project, using Isaiah Bradley''s blood to attempt to infuse the Extremis procedure with the Super Soldier formula.


    Crucially, it was also a way to attempt to heal Bucky Barnes'' mind, because if they could mix Extremis safely with the formula, his brain should get unblended, even if therapy and assistance would still be necessary for a while even if it worked.


    "That is correct, although currently only two out of five test subjects have survived the process." Maya stated clinically, "Yet the fact survivors are happening, without any noted mental deficiency, proves we are on the right track."


    Justin felt a thimble of excitement, knowing he''d be one of the recipients of the finished product, truly becoming superhuman, one of the first steps on actually becoming more powerful, personally, to survive coming threats. "Keep me updated, spare no expenses, if you need more test subjects let me know, I''ll arrange for it." He ordered, pausing briefly, a smile blossoming onto his face, "And Maya¡­ Good work, you''re revolutionizing the world all on your own."


    "Thank you sir." Maya replied, with some warmth leaking into her voice. "I do have a possible favor to ask, in regards to optimizing the project."


    "Name it, and you''ll have it." Justin said immediately, even if it was an insane request, he''d likely fulfill it, Maya''s importance was just that big.


    "Sunil had sent me a list of scientists that had been ridiculed or sent to the fringes of society due to their work, I want them, I want to see if I can make their ideas work." Maya explained shortly, "There are several on the list, who if their ideas show merit, could greatly improve the end product."


    Justin nodded thoughtfully, if they were on the fringes of society, or barely accepted as scientist any longer, they should jump at the opportunity to work for him, and be easy enough to disappear if they didn''t work out. "I''ll set it up, it might take a while to get through your list, do you have any top candidates?"


    Maya thought it over for a moment, the line silent, "Noah Burnstein first." She decided, "He hasn''t had success, and is a lowly prison doctor right now, but his ideas if they can be made to work¡­ It would improve the project by leaps and bounds."


    If Sunil had been involved, it was likely it was from SHIELD or HYDRA files that these names had been passed on to Maya, which meant they might actually be useful.


    "Then you shall have him, my dear." Justin promised, making a note of the name and to send a notice for the security division to handle it. He didn''t need to have any of his senior people involved in something as simple as disappearing someone for life anymore.


    It was a job for his security company.


    They spoke more on the project briefly, before hanging up, Maya not one for pointless pleasantries. It was a boon for him, as she had no other interests than science.


    It was better than¡­ Cho. Justin winced at the thought, she was on her way, and he still hadn''t figured out how to deal with her weird fanaticism.


    Before he could get back to work on locating Obadiah Stane conclusively, so he could meet the man - or figure out what to do about Helen Cho, his intercom rang. He took a deep breath, pressing down on the button, holding it a tad harshly, "Yes?" He asked, a slight growl to his voice.


    "Sir, there''s a Tiberius Stone here to see you, says you had a meeting scheduled, but I can''t see anything in the system¡­"


    Justin wondered what part of him sending the man a request for a meeting, meant to show up unannounced. He just wanted to focus on Stane and the fake for one goddamn moment, was that too much to ask?


    "Sir?" His secretary asked hesitantly after the silence stretched out.


    Justin sighed, rubbing his brow, "Send him in, just him mind you, if he has any bodyguards they can stay where they are." Not taking any chances, even with Domino here¡­


    Considering he was planning to get a meeting with Obadiah Stane so he could beat the truth out of him and possibly kill him if he could get away with it - he was hardly going to allow another billionaire to bring all his people into a meeting with him.


    Minutes later, the media mogul swaggered into the office, and sank into the chair in front of Justin''s desk, an arrogant smirk on his face, "Justin, you''re finally willing to talk, I''ve been waiting for your call, pining away." He said mockingly, giving Domino a wink.


    Justin nodded, letting his anger fall off, putting on a friendlier facade, he couldn''t afford to screw this up because of anger issues directed elsewhere. "Tiberius, I''ve simply finally found a price I''m willing to accept for your purchase of Extremis, I would have called sooner if I could." He lied, a friendly grin on his face.


    Tiberius looked away from Domino, a greedy glint in his eyes, "So don''t hold me in suspense forever, what is your price?"


    Regeneration was a valuable commodity, especially as Justin wasn''t sure at the moment how many years longer he''d live, it wasn''t immortality, but for anyone, especially the rich, any years added on was a must have. Justin knew exactly what he''d use his favor for. His price.


    "You''re aware of the mutant issue I assume?" He asked, instead of immediately going into negotiations.


    Tiberius grimaced slightly, almost imperceptibly, "Of course, and the news of them are non-existent because I''m constantly hampered by government overreach and intelligence agencies¡­"


    Justin pondered the man in front of him, wondering if that small level of distaste was for mutants or the fact he''s not allowed to spin whatever he wants in his media empire due to agencies like SHIELD.


    "For Extremis, I want your entire media empire to continuously follow my will in one subject." He stated, watching the other man intensively. Looking for any sign of irrational hatred, he couldn''t trust the man to do this correctly if he turned out to be a mutant hater.


    He''d still make him do it, but he''d have to have a lot more checks and balances on the content. This was too important to screw up. Justin needed mutants to be on his side in all of this. Not fucking up the world in their constant battles against each other and varied governments. Mutants were an outlier that would make for a much stronger defense of the planet, their varied capabilities impossible to fully prepare for.


    "Mutants are going to be revealed shortly, working for me, taking over the work of UNESCO. I need you to ham up how amazing they are, how they''re just like us, just with some abilities, how they''re just like Captain America, except natural, not artificial." Justin explained seriously, Tiberius giving no indication on what he feels on the subject, just waving for Justin to continue on.


    "I want coverage showing mutants helping people in disasters, using their powers to heal the land, search and rescue, healing, anything PR friendly we can do, and work our way up to more monstrous mutants helping people and how appearances can be deceiving once the message has stuck." Justin frowned, thinking it over, if he was missing something, "For one, we won''t introduce them as mutants, you have the team for it, come up with a more friendly name, workshop it, touch base with me before you air it."


    Tiberius, who''d said not a word during that entire explanation, leaned back slowly in his chair, a calculating look on his face, "You know¡­ You''re asking for quite a lot here, Justin, I''ll lose money on this, some of my portfolio will definitely lose viewership, I''ll lose anchors that have strong opinions.. I''m going to need another dose of Extremis."


    Justin scoffed, shaking his head, "You can''t be serious, Tiberius. So you''ll lose a few million, a few anchors you''ll replace within a day with someone better, and you expect the best thing below literal immortality - to be given to you twice, for such a small inconvenience?"


    Tiberius grinned, rubbing his chin, "Well, it does sound like I''ll be the lynchpin in some kind of plan you''ve got brewing, Justin, and that sounds like something you''ll pay heavily for."


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head, "I can do this without you Tiberius, it is simply a matter of convenience to buy you off beforehand, instead of letting the media go about things naturally."


    Tiberius seemed to acknowledge he wouldn''t get his way completely, his grin slipping a little, "Fine then, one treatment of Extremis for me, for one year of positive coverage."


    Justin raised an unimpressed eyebrow, "Ten years minimum - you''ll probably live another decade or two just from this treatment, don''t try and fuck me, Tiberius, I can withdraw the offer anytime."


    He might need this a bit more than what he was telling the man, but he wasn''t about to get bent over the table either.


    Tiberius pursed his lips, "Five years max or the deal''s off, I can come back when you''re desperate, when the mutants are being torn apart in the press - and get a better deal from you¡­" From the serious look in his eyes, he meant it too.


    Justin''s glasses which had been running analysis of his facial expressions and ticks concluded likewise. So Justin made a show of thinking it over, before finally accepting, "Fine, five years." He agreed, giving the other man an arch look, "Don''t fuck me on this, we give Extremis, and we know how to take it away. You screw us halfway through the deal, we''ll ensure you lose it."


    It wouldn''t be as easy as that, but he was sure Maya could whip up some sort of Extremis removal virus, not something he wanted to have around considering his own Extremis, but a necessary precaution if he was going to be giving supervillains or evil execs the treatment.


    He was a supervillain himself, he didn''t necessarily care if people like the Kingpin murdered people, as long as Justin eventually controlled the world and could defend it from alien threats, what did the lives of some regular people matter in the grand scheme of things. They''d have better lives because of him in the end.


    It''s because heroes were so focused on never sacrificing anything, that they failed so easily. If Justin could stop Thanos and all of the threats to earth like Dormmamu etc, and the cost was killing everyone in New York¡­


    Well, he''d press that button every time.


    The heroes¡­ They''d just die together, apparently uncaring of how many would die behind them, as long as they got to keep their ethics intact.


    Tiberius laughed, an amused smirk on his face, "Oh, you''re a dangerous one, Justin, but don''t worry¡­" His face took on a eager expression, "I''m not about to fuck up a price this big¡­" He gained a thoughtful look, "Besides, getting to name mutants has its own appeal, I''d be the first¡­ Hmm¡­ Metahumans? Gifted?"


    "So we have a deal?" Justin asked.


    Five years would cover past the New York invasion, after that, he''d likely not need to buy press to continue the positive press coverage.


    "We have a deal." Tiberius said with a dark grin, reaching out with his hand to shake on it.


    In one fifteen minute meeting, Justin had just achieved more for mutant kind than Xavier and Magneto had over their lifetimes.


    They should have focused on making money.


    <hr>


    The next day,


    "Boss, you have a call from Hope." Domino called out, holding his cellphone out to him, as he tried to concentrate on his golf swing.


    He''d decided to take a break, Obadiah Stane and SHIELD frustrating him, one refusing to be pinned down, the other constantly harassing him for his plans, following him everywhere, and generally being annoying busybodies.


    For God''s sake, Hawkeye was perched in a fucking tree watching him golf, did they seriously not have anything better to do? Like find Stane, or get a report from the elusive Natashalie?


    Giving his swing up as a bust, just having Extremis had changed how he swung, his body always in a perfect condition giving just a miniscule difference in the swing, but one that was enough to throw him off and keep hitting bunkers instead of perfect green.


    Or maybe it was the fact he never had time for golf anymore, he tossed the club away, uncaring about where it landed, grasping the phone from his caddy/bodyguard. "To what do I owe the pleasure, Hope? Has your father seen sense in the commercial applications of the particles?"


    Yeah right, he silently scoffed. Hank Pym, the only rich man who seems to detest money¡­


    Hope''s voice was warm as she replied, "Hank isn''t going to change his mind anytime soon, I''m afraid, no I''m calling to help you out with something actually."


    Justin put the phone between his chin and his shoulder as he began removing his gloves, "Oh, I''m always open to help from you, Hope, any kind really, or a dinner, I still owe you one."


    Hope laughed warmly, the tone of a smile on her voice still as she answered, "Perhaps a dinner after our meeting." She suggested, and before Justin could admit to his confusion, she continued, "One of your employees have for some reason taken it upon themselves to text me with updates of where you''ll be, and quite a few shirtless pictures." Hope paused for a moment, before continuing mirthfully, "Quite a few, actually¡­ But she also let me know you''re desperately trying to get in contact with Obadiah Stane, who I just so happen to have a meeting with in San Francisco in two days."


    Justin sent Domino a dirty look, but the burgeoning smile on his face took some effect of it, "That would be amazing, Hope, if you allow me to tag along to surprise Stane, I''ll owe you one, but I feel it would be remiss to not warn you of the fact he''s unlikely to be happy to see me."


    Considering he intended to destroy Stane and his puppet, it would hardly be a pleasant meeting.


    Hope snorted, answering dryly, "I can tell, but it''s only a courtesy meeting to tell him no, you can''t get any Pym particles - so I don''t particularly care if the meeting goes astray."


    "It''s a date then." Justin said, grinning darkly, got you now you bastard!


    <hr>

 Faceoff!

    <hr>


    San Francisco, California.


    Justin was looking forward to putting a quick end to this wrinkle in his grand designs, but unfortunately it looked like he''d have to take things slower than he''d like.


    Which was the story of his life most days.


    His SHIELD entourage had joined him in San Francisco, Agent Coulson and Agent Barton managing with some effort, to remain blandly polite - even as they followed him wherever he went.


    He somewhat regretted allowing Fury to add this caveat to his interference, but perhaps it would have been twice as painful if he''d just gone ahead and refused Fury, and forced them to be more covert.


    They made quite the procession as they all trooped into the Buena Vista Caf¨¦ at Fisherman''s wharf, in San Francisco. Justin was followed by Domino and several members of his protection detail, with Coulson, Barton and some STRIKE members following behind and pretending to be a separate group - but so obviously attached to them it was ridiculously pointless.


    Usual SHIELD doctrine. Be pointlessly obvious.


    Justin smiled pleasantly at Hope, as he sat down across from her. They''d pointedly picked a two seater table to avoid anyone deciding they could sit down with them and join the conversation. Yes, Coulson, we mean you. "We''ve made a habit of meeting only for a meal it seems." He said charmingly, giving her an honest smile.


    Domino took the table next to them, sending a beatific smile at Coulson and Barton, who would have to take a table further away, without being in hearing distance, Barton looked almost tempted to sit down across from Domino, her mien going absolutely mischievous at his pondering. Coulson ended up having to drag him away before he got a chance to embarrass himself any further.


    Hope watched the little dance with amusement, resting her cheek in the palm of her hand, "With the circus you always bring, it limits the places we can go." She teased gently, "And since you were late, I already ordered for you." She added, still in the same teasing tone, her green eyes warm.


    Hope might not have the ethereal beauty of an Emma Frost, or the deadly grace of a Natasha Romanoff, but everything she had was painfully genuine, and more attractive because of it.


    Justin sighed, lips twitching slightly, "It seems to always happen that way, doesn''t it?" He agreed companionably, before cranking his neck in the direction of the SHIELD agents, "Although this time I can certainly lay the issue at hand at the feet of my government minders and their incessant whining."


    Clint especially, Coulson at least was a professional, but Clint seemed intent on being as annoying as possible.


    And Justin hadn''t even gone out of his way to punish him for being an Avenger in the future yet.


    A waitress appeared with their food, putting a stop to Hope''s response. She was a peppy girl, almost bouncing in place, serving Hope first, before laying a plate before him, her wide doe eyes almost shining in awe, "This is the smoked salmon eggs benedict for you, sir, and can I just say I''m a huge huge, so massively huge, fan! You''re literally doing more for the planet than the rest of humanity combined!" She said rapidly, in a fast enough cadence he barely caught it all.


    There might have been a squeal in there too.


    Justin couldn''t help but preen slightly, although he stopped as soon as he saw Hope hide a grin behind her hand, realizing he was literally peacocking to some undergrad part timer at a caf¨¦. He cleared his throat awkwardly, smiling at the overexcited girl, "I appreciate your kind words." He said, mentally wishing she''d go away as Hope continued to laugh at him from behind her hand.


    He just knew Domino was going to bring this up later. Why was it whenever he was near Hope he always ended up so awkward instead of the smooth debonair man he was otherwise?


    "I''m¡­ Probably going to get fired for asking this and bothering you, but can I have your autograph, pretty please!" She begged, holding both hands and her notepad to her chest, almost squealing at him.


    "Yes, Justin, can she have your autograph?" Hope mocked, laughter in her voice, "Be kind to your fans now¡­." She is enjoying this way too much.


    Justin smiled wanly, drawing a pen from his suit pocket that was likely worth more than this locale, and found himself a sheet of paper ripped off the notepad by the rapidly blushing girl. "Who do I make it out to?" He asked politely, one eyebrow twitching slightly as the girl squealed high enough to draw every eye in the caf¨¦.


    Well, to be fair, they were already staring ever since Justin walked in, he was kind of a big deal at the moment. That and all the armed men that followed them in, even in America that wasn''t so usual in a simple caf¨¦.


    "Bethany!" The waitress managed to squeal out, squirming in place, her face red as she tried to act casually, swiping some hair out of her face before she scribbled something on her notepad at a fast pace, her blush increasing.


    Justin almost wrote down - fuck off Bethany.


    That autograph might actually be worth more, to be honest.


    But Hope might not be in such a good mood if he made the silly girl cry, so he settled for a neutral - It was nice meeting you, undersigned, Justin Hammer.


    There. He was nice. He filled his quota for the month.


    He handed the scrap of paper to the girl, Hope and Domino both with shit eating grins on their faces as they watched the girl squeal yet again, holding the note like it was made out of gold.


    "Bethany! Stop bothering the customers!" A loud voice yelled from the back, the serving girl blushing furiously, as she dropped the note she''d been struggling to write onto the table, while holding Justin''s signature to her chest, running away to deal with her boss. Squeaking out a rushed, "Byethankyouiloveyouimeanit!"


    Before Justin could grab the note she left behind, Hope swiped it, Justin having a feeling about what exactly had been written down, grabbing his utensils instead to focus on his delectable looking food, hoping Hope would follow suit.


    Alas, he wasn''t that lucky.


    SHIELDs presence was giving him bad luck, he really needed to ditch those losers soon¡­


    As soon as he got Stane¡­ Fury couldn''t complain after that.


    Technically a World Security Councilor taking the man in, counted as legal, right?


    Hope fanned the note across her face, grinning at him, "You''re a hot commodity it seems, Justin." She said playfully, "Not only a phone number, but an address, the girl''s measurements and apparently¡­" She looked over the note again, snorting, "A gymnast roommate who''d be totally down." She finished, in a ditzy accent, mocking him.


    "I am fairly famous." He said, refusing to be drawn in further in this whole embarrassing episode, cutting into his smoked salmon dish, grabbing a bite. Hope always manages to find something delicious, he thought, realizing she''d already had several opportunities to end up ordering for him, with him being late to their meetings.


    Hope snorted again, placing the note down, attending to her own meal, a Dungeness crab omelet, if he identified the meat correctly as she cut it. He kind of wanted to switch meals now¡­ He loved crab.


    Hope noticed his look, gaining a sly look on her face, "I''ll give you a bite of mine if I get one of yours?" She said, waving her fork a little in the air. That''s definitely crab¡­


    "Jesus Christ, fuck already." Domino muttered from the table next to them, looking skyward, like she was begging for assistance from a higher power.


    "We''re only good friends, Domino." Hope said firmly, as she lent her fork over to Justin who took a bite out of the crab omelet.


    "Friends¡­ Sure." Domino drawled, rolling her eyes. "I always spoon feed my friends too."


    "So Hope, have you thought over my offer?" Justin cut in, sending Domino a warning glance, he didn''t need his bodyguard ruining the mood.


    Hope chewed her food slowly, giving herself a few extra seconds to answer, "It has¡­ Merits." She acknowledged, looking hesitant, "You understand that I''m not comfortable with Pym particles being used for weapons?"


    Justin waved the concern away, "It couldn''t be farther from my mind, I''m looking at a limited partnership, solely for the efforts of space travel and for setting up either a moon base, or a space station."


    Hope''s face smoothed out, the relief at the weapons matter being a non entity removing some stress, but she looked around furtively right after, pulling at a lock of hair, "Should we really be talking about this here?"


    Justin smirked, "It''s no matter, if it gets out, all it means is more pressure on Hank fucking Pym to cough it up, the people and politicians of the world drooling at the idea of a moon base." Good luck keeping it all locked down then, Hank!


    Even if his stubbornness was actually helping him, he just needed the man to be less stubborn to him, specifically.


    Hope gave him a dry look, some censure in her tone, "That''s still my father, Justin." She let out a huff of air, going back to her breakfast, adding. "Although you are still underestimating his stubbornness if you think a little thing like public opinion is going to make a difference."


    "But you''re open to the idea?" Justin asked, having offered a limited partnership between the two of them for this venture, hoping Hank would at least let his daughter do something with the particles, as long as they and their company were the ones still handling it.


    Hope nodded, reaching for her glass of orange juice, "I could definitely see us working together to get into space." She said, a thrum of excitement working through her, Hope trying, but failing, to hold back a brilliant smile.


    "Space, the final frontier." Justin intoned heavily, smirking with self satisfaction. This trip was already paying dividends and they hadn''t even stomped Obadiah Stane yet.


    Hope burst out laughing, "You giant nerd!" She teased, "Don''t tell me you''re going to name the first shuttle Enterprise?"


    Justin sniffed, cutting through some more of his smoked salmon, "Of course not¡­" Not enough Hammer in that name, he thought, but didn''t say. He had a feeling Hope would just tease him more if he revealed that.


    Or his planned eventual moon base, HammerDome, name pending.


    It would be several years, minimum, before Africa was sufficiently built up to support such a venture, however - unless he focused on it above all else.


    And he had too many things to do to focus solely on that.


    Hope was still smiling, a knowing look in her eyes, but she switched the subject, cutting Justin a break, "I''ll talk to to him, I''ll find a way to get him to sign off on just the two of us working on this, I''ll have to promise to not let you near any Pym particles though." She warned gently.


    Justin scoffed, "I couldn''t care less how they''re created, I just need them for the space venture, that''s it." For now¡­ Pym particles were literally the way to a post-scarcity society¡­


    "As long as you''re sure, I''ll do my best." Hope promised, flashing him a quick smile, before she got a more distasteful mien to her face, "Let''s talk about the elephant in the room¡­ Stane."


    "You''re going to put me off my breakfast, my darling." Justin joked, but he grabbed a handkerchief and gently dabbed at his lips, "I suppose it would be wise to lay our cards on the table however, especially as Stane can not have missed my presence in San Francisco."


    Hope shook her head wryly, "Not when you keep arriving like you''re a rock star, with groupies throwing themselves at you." She indicated the note that still lay on the table.


    Part of Justin was almost tempted to grab it, the girl had been annoying, but very very cute. The knowing smirk on Hope''s face stopped him however, he refused on principle to make a fool out of himself like that.


    Instead he smirked proudly, tilting his chin arrogantly, "When you''re as good as I am, everywhere rolls out the red carpet."


    "Not Stane." Hope pointed out dryly, "And I''m sure he still wants the Pym particles, so someone will show up for the meeting, but seeing this whole circus surrounding you¡­ I don''t think he''ll show up personally."


    Justin made sure there were no servers around for the moment, lowering his voice, "I am fairly certain he was intending to kidnap you to begin with, to force the issue with Hank, so really, I''m coming along so that we can take care of it and follow the trail back to him." He admitted.


    At first he''d been thrilled at the opportunity to add himself on to Hope''s meeting with Stane, until he realized how foolish it was to rely on Stane being unaware of his presence, even if he attempted to be sly about it instead of openly arriving in San Francisco.


    Stane''s meeting with Hope happening - while the transfer of the business wasn''t finalized and with the uncertainty of FTony''s mental condition - was suspicious.


    With the Pym particles revealed at the Suez, and Stane being somewhat more than average in intelligence, it was obvious that gaining control of Hope would result in a chance at getting Hank''s cooperation.


    Which would catapult Stane into a position equal to, and perhaps even surpassing Hammer''s own. The particles were that kind of game changer.


    Personally, Justin believed it would just bring the old coot out of retirement in an explosive manner, but Stane was obviously not thinking entirely clearly at the moment, chasing his dreams at full speed, hoping to get powerful enough, quickly enough, that he could then escape the consequences.


    Sort of a limited plan similar to Justin''s own, just incredibly rushed and hanging on by a prayer. Someone would nail Stane eventually, if he kept going like this. Not everyone knew about Hanks previous career though, Justin wouldn''t without his previous knowledge.


    Justin just wanted this all done before Stane took control of Stark industries and changed too much about Iron Man''s trajectory. He really didn''t want to be stuck financing it himself.


    "You really think he''d be that bold?" Hope asked, head bent low, whispering back to him furtively, her lips barely moving.


    Justin nodded, "It''s why we''ll spring the trap, he''s no doubt somewhere nearby, so that he could meet with you after you''re captured and explain what he wants, typical villain 101."


    "And your¡­ Guests?" She asked quietly, the warmth and playfulness drained out of her with the realization of their upcoming meeting, which somewhat bothered Justin.


    He liked it better when she was smiling.


    Justin scoffed lightly at her mention of the agents, "They''re insisting everything is fine, despite their agent not reporting in for days, I''m plain ignoring them, feel free to do the same."


    Hope pursed her lips, glancing over at said agents, who were watching them intently, Agent Barton now openly showing his chagrin. "Seems I''ll be the one to owe you one after this." She said finally.


    Justin took a bite of smoked salmon, shaking his head, "You''ve bought me food, again, so I''m afraid I still owe you." He insisted.


    Hope laughed, shaking her head, the small aura of discontent fading, as they just enjoyed breakfast together.


    Stane would be dealt with tomorrow.


    Whatever ambush he had planned for Hope, wouldn''t be enough for Justin and his team, no matter what reinforcements he could bring in on short notice.


    Stane couldn''t wait either, not now that they were on to him, that Hope knew about him, he''d have to go all in.


    Or he''d surprise them all, and just show up for the meeting, and call it all off to attempt to seem ''normal'' hoping it would all blow over.


    Either way, Justin would ensure he came out on top.


    <hr>


    Cairo, Egypt.


    Ororo Munroe could hardly believe the kind of speed these things worked at.


    She''d barely been approached by Charles about this venture - the actual reveal of mutants on a global scale - before she was flown out to Cairo to begin working on the project.


    The fact Africa itself would be playing a major part in the process was something Ororo could get behind. After so long of being exploited, they''d finally step out on the world stage as something more, equals to one and all.


    Of course, she hardly thought Hammer wasn''t exploiting them, but at least he was doing it in a way that hugely benefited them at the same time.


    Which drew parallels to how Hammer was doing this mutant venture as well. She was sure he was exploiting them for his own reasons, but the net benefit to all mutants would just be too great to quibble about it.


    Charles had explained it, and Ororo had drawn some conclusions even Charles hadn''t, because Charles, despite everything, had always led a privileged life. He just couldn''t see it sometimes - the things Ororo could.


    Hammer was a grifter, he was helping them, but he''d take the lionshare of the profits and benefits. She had no doubt most of the mutants that she''d be nominally in charge of in UNESCO, would end up loyal to Hammer above everything.


    At least the uplift of Africa would help the lingering pain of seeing Wakanda destroy themselves so fully¡­ Ororo couldn''t even help if she wanted to, they literally had no allies anymore, African countries hating them even more than anyone else.


    She was brought out of her thoughts, as the blonde nordic looking woman who had introduced herself as Hammer''s personal assistant, walked over, heels clicking loudly against the hardwood floors.


    "Apologies for the wait, Miss Munroe. There were some issues at customs, and the photographer''s for your specific set were briefly detained. They are here now, and we''re ready to begin." Elena said, only a slight pinch to her features showing her annoyance.


    Ororo tilted her head curiously, "What kind of issue detained them?" She wondered out loud, already having a feeling¡­


    She did know this country fairly well.


    Elena gave her a strained smile, "Some of their portfolio apparently¡­ Clashed, with some views of the border guards." Her features hardened, as she grasped her clipboard tightly, "Hammer industries made it very clear to them that such a thing shall not happen again, and the Egyptian security services promised that customs agents would be re-educated post haste."


    Ororo sighed, rising gracefully from her seated position. She thought it was something like that, not surprising, but it sits ill that Hammer industries already has such a grasp on Egypt¡­


    She had a thought, pausing as she walked behind Elena, the assistant stopping as well, looking back at her with a questioning look.


    "Anything the matter, Miss Munroe?" She asked professionally.


    "This photo shoot¡­ Exactly how risque is it?" She asked dryly, she was tentatively onboard with being the ''face'' of mutanthood, but if they had been stopped at customs¡­ Certain things were not something she signed up for, no matter how tight the uniform she usually wore was.


    Elena smirked, seeming to understand exactly where she was coming from, "Nothing like that," She said, before she flashed a smile, some wicked amusement in her eyes, "The bathing suit catalog however to introduce the first complement of UNESCO Metahumans, will have you on the cover."


    Ororo sighed, following the woman to her doom. When she''d signed on to take over UNESCO under Hammer Industries, she''d expected paperwork, courses, training new mutan - sorry, Metahumans, in all manner of things.


    Not a swimsuit catalog or photo shoots for the coming reveal. It seemed to her, those should take a backseat to the actual work. But they would be running hundreds of ads, everywhere in the world, so she supposed they had a lot of material to go through.


    Her eyes twitched slightly as she entered the room used for this photoshoot, to see various Metahumans in a state of undress, all very attractive of course, as that was the point.


    She wasn''t sheltered, she was well aware how the industry worked. Sex sells, and all that. Sexy mut- Metahumans, would make it more likely they''d be accepted, she could acknowledge the point, as distasteful as it was.


    This is how we''re saving mutants¡­? She couldn''t help but think, however.


    Charles¡­. this better work!


    <hr>


    Pentagon, United States of America.


    Thaddeus Ross drummed his fingers on his desk, eyes intent on the demonstration recording he was watching, his new lofty position rarely giving him the time to be on site anymore.


    Hammer''s demonstration had been the last one he''d attended in person. His lips thinned in distaste as he thought about the man, and his outrageous demands.


    He''d never thought he''d run into a man more annoying than Tony Stark. But Hammer managed, and his arrogance in believing he was the only one capable of delivering was astounding.


    Setting impossible prices to force the United States of America into either holding off on the next evolution in warfare - or face bankrupting themselves to get a hold of enough suits - it was not the action of someone with America''s best interest in mind.


    He''d been wrong on one thing though, Ross thought with grim satisfaction, seeing the power armor on the video destroy the targets completely, Hammer wasn''t the only one capable of power armor.


    Not anymore.


    Ross tossed the tablet onto the desk, leaning back in his leather chair, "So¡­ They''re not quite the same as what we asked for, are they?" He said gruffly. They''re not Hammer weapons¡­


    Besides, it wouldn''t do to give his guest a big head by being too effusive with praise, that had been Hammer''s issue.


    His guest chuckled, "Not the same as Hammer, you mean? I''m afraid I went for a different manner of weaponry and flight, something I''ve worked on since long before Hammer displayed his wares." He splayed his hands out, a wild grin on his face, "But I give you options, Ross! Drones, or suits, I can do either or both, and for a fraction of the insulting price Hammer gave you."


    Now how does he even know about that¡­? If there''s a leak in my department I''m going to string them up by their bootstraps from the Washington monument! Ross thought, gritting his teeth.


    Ross eventually grunted quietly, irritated by Osborn''s knowledge, but showing him that he had heard him at least. That said, putting his knowledge aside, drones as an option would greatly reduce complaints about casualties, and also meant that proper soldiers with battle experience would be running them, instead of cocky flyboys in million dollar suits.


    "I am tentatively interested in the drones." He pointed a finger at the man opposite him, glaring at him, "If they work as advertised, one demonstration is hardly enough."


    They both knew it was bullshit. He wanted them, and he wanted them yesterday. They need to be one step ahead, especially after the Wakanda debacle. Congress was running snap elections soon, but it would still mean a weakened government for quite a while. Ellis, Ross thought, was hardly a wartime president either¡­


    Norman Osborn cackled, leaning forward in his chair, rubbing his hands together, "I can deliver hundreds of the Goblin armor within the month, thousands by the end of the year."


    Ross grimaced, "Can we change the name, Goblin is hardly appropriate for the United States armed forces." He scoffed, raising his hands, "Why am I asking?" He spoke, almost to himself, before stabbing a finger towards Osborn, "We''re changing the name, but we''ll begin with half a drone complement and half piloted armor, to start with, for testing purposes." He barked, not feeling overly pleased about the ugly green armor and flight devices, compared to Hammer''s sleek monstrosities.


    But he could buy several battalions of Osborn''s armors and even skip on the pilot, for the price of one of Hammer''s devices. Besides, they could probably paint them or something, make them less ugly.


    There wasn''t even a question about the choice, and with the Pentagon still dealing with personnel shuffles and promotions issues due to their losses, he''d bully the requisition through for the first few hundred examples.


    By the time Congress was elected, he''d present them with a fait accompli and they''d sign off on the new best thing, no newly elected congressman would shoot down a defense spending bill in this climate. Especially one sponsored and already half written by Edmundson, the designated survivor and only current congressman.


    Someone who owed Ross, and therefore was owned by Ross.


    Wakanda had certainly helped his career go upwards, he''d repay them with hundreds of armors cutting through their people. According to the experts at the Pentagon, it would be months before they had the shield down, plenty of time to get these armors operational.


    Osborn''s eyes flashed, as Ross disparaged the name, but he nodded along, with gritted teeth, understanding who he was working with, and not arrogant enough to snap back, unlike some.


    Ross smirked, heh, at least there''s one billionaire with the sense to do as he''s told, he thought, before getting into the nitty gritty of negotiations, determined to squeeze as many of these goblin armors out of the man as possible.


    They''d have to power them with HammerTech through Arc reactors, so unfortunately he couldn''t completely avoid the Hammer connection, as much as it galled to send more money his way, with how the arrogant fool attempted to screw with him.


    Osborn had just been missing that one component, power, for years. So he already had everything necessary ready for production.


    How ironic, Ross thought, that Hammer would provide the one thing that would allow him to completely skip past Hammer''s power armor, for his own more dependable supplier.


    Take your ten billion and shove it up your arse, Hammer, he thought, shaking Norman Osborn''s hand.


    I''ve made the better deal, with the better man!


    <hr>


    Lunchtime, Hammer industries San Francisco office.


    The breakfast with Hope had gone about as well as Justin could have hoped for.


    For all that he was pushing for Pym particles for himself, for limited projects - he had no intention of allowing it to become widespread yet. He didn''t yet hold dominion of the planet. There could be no post-scarcity society until after he was in charge of everything.


    He refused to allow humanity''s uplift to push him to the side. Pym particles were a universal cheat, the building block to everything moving ahead. And that could only be allowed once he controlled it.


    With Hope and him in a joint venture for space, the Pym particles would begin to be put to use, slowly, and under his and Hope''s control, benefitting only them - until he could control the entire process in the distant future. A moon base didn''t look too crazy when one rocket alone could bring up enough supplies to build a city.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    He only needed to further build up infrastructure in Africa first, because trusting NASA to not have any SHIELDRA members wasn''t something he was going to do. He needed it all to be under his domain, his control. There could be no chances for subversion of any space assets.


    What would be the point in defense satellites or a big honkin'' space gun on the moon - if some bastard could turn it back on them?


    He''d done the right thing in trying to lure Hope in, even if it was a shame she insisted on keeping things platonic. Partners wasn''t something he really did, but he''d make an exception for this. The Pym particles were that important. And if he kept Hope happy, and dazzled her with the possibility of going into space - certainly did that - then half the battle was already won.


    Now if only some of the other women in my life were as easy to get along with¡­ He thought, apprehensively.


    Doctor Helen Cho was making her way through security at this very moment, Domino taking no chances, putting her and the men that escorted her - through stringent protocols - to ensure there wasn''t any possible avenue for trickery or betrayal. If Cho was right, and she had the means for mind control, permanent mind control - at least according to her theory about its effects - due to the concentrated liquid she''d managed to create¡­


    There could be no chances taken.


    There could be no risk that Cho was under Kilgrave''s influence somehow. Which was also why they''d ensured she wouldn''t reach him anywhere near the twelve hour window his power usually worked under.


    Although Cho was fairly certain the concentrated essence had no time limit¡­


    She would be going through a decontamination chamber before seeing him, her clothing destroyed, there would be no chances that she''d have any means of spreading any chemical concoctions onto him. His San Francisco branch consisted mostly of labs with attached offices, so had the available rooms and procedures already in place.


    The vial had already been secured, and transferred to the most secure vault he had on the west coast. A nuke wouldn''t be enough to even make the vault take notice, so it should be fairly safe there, until he figured out what exactly he could use it for.


    As he waited for Cho to finish decontamination procedures, his thoughts turned to the innocuous vial of Kilgrave juice.


    There were so many options really, world leaders, villains, heroes, even business rivals..


    But¡­


    He already could control world leaders without much effort, discounting Asia and the Mandarin''s control.


    Villains and heroes¡­ He doubted he''d need it for them, it was a one time resource after all. Except for again, the Mandarin - there really weren''t any real threats right now. Magneto was at the very least leaning towards neutral for now, taking the biggest immediate threat out of the picture.


    And with the soon to be rechristened mutants about to come over to his side in droves, Magneto''s threat rating would only drop.


    No¡­ Controlling heroes or villains was hardly worth it.


    As for business rivals, hah!


    He already was mowing down the competition just fine without needing something like mind control. It would be a waste.


    Justin typed away at his keyboard, a report he''d received a few days back coming into relevance again. He''d tasked Sunil with possible geniuses that could set up his own AI¡­


    He''d originally wanted Samuel Sterns for the project, knowing that even if he wasn''t a genius programmer, once he''d become the leader, his brain enhanced by the Hulk''s blood - he could become one quick enough. His genius could easily be able to pick up new subjects.


    And his morals would perhaps be loose enough to be bought easily. Although trust would be hard¡­


    Except¡­ Lately, when he''d been going over his plans for the near future, he''d come to the realization that Ross wasn''t chasing Banner across the world, he was much too busy for that. And with the super weapons now popping up, Banner wasn''t even a priority anyway. The odds of the situation in regards to Sterns going down in even remotely the same way - was frighteningly low.


    So he''d had to start looking at backup options. Getting Sunil to put together a small list of people who could possibly transform Tony Stark''s work into something completely loyal to Justin.


    Ah, here''s the list¡­ If one can call something with so few names, a list.


    Leo Fitz¡­ Unlikely to be worth the effort, a genius from reports, but in the SHIELD academy, which always brought up the possibility he was HYDRA. Even if he wasn''t, it didn''t exactly make him more trustworthy.


    Holden Radcliffe, somewhat more promising perhaps, he was working at GT Agrochemical, and was currently, affording to Sunil, in hot water with the company for his obsession with Transhumanism.


    Which again, didn''t make him trustworthy, as a transhumanist might be exactly the kind of person to let Skynet loose to transcend humanity or some nonsense.


    Last name on the list was a mutant, Cypher. His power was the ability to easily understand any language, including programming languages, and he was also very technically skilled. If anyone could parse through Jarvis, and change his code to something more suitable to Justin''s taste - it was likely Cypher.


    Of course, he was one of Xavier''s, which could present a problem¡­


    AI¡­


    So much hinged on Justin having that kind of assistance, especially for surveillance and eventually space defenses¡­


    His thoughts ruminated on the vial. None of the three options were someone he''d just trust with crafting his AI, there was always a chance they''d build a backdoor, or betray him.


    Of all the options in the world¡­ Was this the best one? A truly loyal programmer and genius to work on AI, to continue to upgrade, maintain and work with the AI intelligence itself¡­


    If he mind controlled someone like Cypher¡­ How would he hide it from Xavier?


    His thoughts were interrupted before he could make a decision, the door opening, a fidgety Cho entering wearing only a hospital style gown.


    He winced slightly at the almost slavish look of adoration that took over her face, even as the slim woman hesitated at the frame of the door.


    "Come in, Helen, my apologies for the rough treatment, but we had to be sure." Justin said, getting up and walking around his desk, meeting her halfway with an easy smile.


    The poor woman had even faced a cavity search, the least he could do was treat her kindly at this point.


    Sunil''s warning of how she was blaming herself had changed his initial approach too; he''d initially intended to chastise her slighty for acting foolishly, but if she was already heartbroken for ''failing'' him, that kind of approach could backfire. He''d need a more gentle approach, not the big bad boss, but the friendly caring one.


    She was too valuable an asset to push away.


    Helen stopped just an arm''s length away, lowering her head slightly, eyes on the floor, "I failed, you should have treated me worse!" She whispered out softly, barely audible, an aura of dejection around her.


    Justin winced, he was usually not half bad with people, but he really had no idea how to deal with Cho. He was lost for words for a moment, wondering if he should offer comfort, or something more neutral, when he noticed the woman begin to sniffle slightly.


    For fucks sake¡­.


    Justin stepped forward and hugged her, Helen letting out a gasp in shock and not so hidden awe at the action, he patted her on the back, feeling awkward, "There, there, it was a longshot project anyway, and you managed to get something out of it, it''s really not a failure."


    "B-but you gave me a job and I couldn''t do it!" Helen said, staring up at him with wide open eyes, searching for admonishment, her cheeks beginning to redden.


    "You did do it, you produced a vial, which is honestly more than I expected out of the project." Justin admitted, having hoped for more, but expected nothing, it was a longshot project to begin with.


    "I failed you, you who''ve done so much for humanity already, for me, you''ve cured disease! And I let you down!" Helen said insistently, hands grasping around his tie as she stared intently up at him, eyes burning with belief and passion.


    That''s¡­ One way to look at it, Justin thought with bemusement, he''d marketed it sure, bankrolled it, but Helen had more to do with perfecting Panacea than Justin did. Not that he was averse to the idea of taking the credit, his name was on it as well, just¡­ What was she after, exactly? Stroking his ego like that¡­


    "You haven''t failed." He reiterated, taking a step back, releasing her, her hands slipping off his tie as he did, "And I have plenty more work for you, Maya will get much further in her current projects if she had you by her side again."


    With current successes of the Soldier serum/Extremis mix being on the low end, Helen''s expertise in genetics might speed up the viability to where it could be used far sooner than projected. Only the fact Kilgrave had priority to be figured out or eliminated - had previously prevented Helen''s involvement.


    Justin hadn''t wanted to risk just keeping Kilgrave on ice. He hadn''t read too many comics back in the day, but he''d read enough that something like that sounded exactly like how you got fucked. So Kilgrave''s death really wasn''t a failure in any meaning of the word.


    He''d also ensured Sunil checked and ensured nothing of the body remained. There would be no miraculous resurrections.


    Helen sank to her knees, grasping his hand and nuzzling it. What the fuck!?


    "I must be punished, sir." She said seriously, fanaticism shining out of her eyes, "I failed you, I can''t continue on to another project without a punishment for my deficit."


    Maybe leaving her completely isolated for so long had been a bad idea¡­ Justin thought, staring down at the woman who was rubbing her cheek against his hand. "Shouldn''t punishment be my choice?" He asked, dryly, trying to remain normal, despite of her odd behavior.


    What kind of reading material did she have access to in her isolation? This is not the crazy woman that went into the facility¡­ But¡­ It''s not Kilgrave crazy either¡­ I think.


    She was definitely crazier though¡­


    Helen nodded rapidly, "You''re right of course, sir, I was presumptuous." She smiled dopily, staring up at him, her cheeks cherry red now, "Please punish me for having ideas above my station!"


    Before Justin could even begin to address that, Helen untied the knot for her gown at the neck, the material falling to the floor, pooling at her knees, which somewhat delayed his thought process.


    Justin should be dealing with the crazy fanatic kneeling naked in his office right now, he should perhaps be thinking about the gorgeous naked woman in other manners as well - but instead his thoughts are stuck on one thing, as he points at a spot on her body, "When did you have the chance to get a tattoo? And why is it my name!?" He asked incredulously.


    The reports on her fanaticism growing, had if anything been underreported.


    Helen preened slightly, "Do you like it, sir?" She cooed, running a hand over it, "I programmed one of the robot arms in the lab to do it on one of my off days." She said proudly.


    Justin reached for his phone, nodding at the crazy genius with a genial smile. "Domino¡­ I need an adult." He said over the line, not even joking. "It''s pretty¡­" He told Helen with a strained voice, the woman beaming up at him, still stroking the tattoo.


    Which¡­ Was very alluring. His name was marked on her, that¡­ He hadn''t realized that was something that he''d like. Alot.


    He just¡­ How do you even deal with this version of Cho? He''d punted her away after mistakingly causing her to fixate on him, figuring the distance would solve the issue for him. But she''d gotten ten times worse.


    And he couldn''t alienate her, he needed her expertise still. Would need her for so much, the X-Gene research, the Extremis/Super concoction, alien dissection and discovery when they got to that point¡­


    Domino soon arrived, poking her head in the door, snorting slightly as she spotted the naked, and still kneeling, Doctor Cho.


    "What did you need, boss? Forgot a condom?" She snarked, thankfully not able to see the tattoo from where she stood.


    Justin sent her a death glare, sending a text message over his glasses, gesturing slightly at Helen. Fix her. The short message he sent said. Not something he wanted to vocalize in case it made the scientist crazier.


    Domino checked her phone, and this time the snort was much louder. "You fucked her into this, so fuck her out of it! I''m no therapist." She said, and then, she walked away!


    He paid her a mountain of gold and she walked away! Leaving him with this¡­ Beautiful, slavishly loyal, kinky woman¡­ Crazy, yes, but¡­


    "You''re fired!" Justin shouted after her, because still, he was the boss and she''d abandoned him. His eyes turned back to the woman who was still patiently waiting on her knees for Justin to ''punish'' her.


    He undid his tie, sighing, "Fuck it. What''s the worst that could happen?" He''d been on a bit of a forced dry spell because of how busy he''d been anyway,


    And Helen was certainly willing enough¡­


    One spanking coming up to start with.


    It''s not like she could get any worse, right?


    ¡­ Right?


    <hr>


    The next day, San Francisco.


    They were in the armored limousine heading to the offices where Obadiah Stane had arranged to meet with Hope, with said woman sitting in between Justin and Domino, dressed in sensible but fashionable business attire, matching Justin with the dark blue coloring.


    They were already almost there, the locale not too far from Justin''s offices, the ride mostly spend in silence so far, as Justin gave Domino the evil eye from time to time.


    "So¡­ Did I miss something?" Hope asked bemusedly, looking in-between Justin and Domino, the second was as easy going as usual, and just laughed at the question, while the first kept glaring at the second.


    "Nothing¡­" Justin said, trying not to think of how he''d compounded on the issue of sleeping with employees, by doing it again, and again.


    And again. Helen''s enthusiasm had grown with leaps and bounds.


    Really, he didn''t learn, he blamed Domino for it, his eyes turning towards her in a glare again, "Someone who is supposed to keep me from making bad decisions, decided to abandon their duty yesterday." He growled out.


    Hope raised an eyebrow, looking at the still mirthful Domino, before returning an unimpressed gaze on Justin, "You''re an adult, Justin, why didn''t you keep yourself from doing something stupid?" She asked, sounding exasperated.


    Justin really didn''t want to tell Hope exactly what he''d been doing. So he switched the subject, dropping his annoyance at Domino, for now. "So, Stane is almost certainly going to come after us, but we''ve already planned for it, so you''ll have no need to worry, Hope. You''ll be safe throughout this meeting."


    Justin had taken several steps to ensure it.


    Hope patted him on the hand, "I''ll just ask Domino later." She said with a small smirk, before she tossed her hair over one shoulder, leaning back, seemingly utterly relaxed about their upcoming encounter, "I''ve seen the New York aftermath, and the Suez, I have no doubt about you and your team''s capabilities, Justin."


    "D''aww, she likes us, boss!" Domino said, hand to her heart, Hope just rolling her eyes at the bodyguard.


    He really needed to do something about the two of them becoming friends, Domino knew a lot of dirt¡­


    Justin couldn''t help but chuckle along for now however, putting Cho out of his mind for later, fanaticism could be cured surely, cult members were cured, so Cho could be fixed eventually. It wasn''t as much of a problem as the other issues he was juggling. "Just let me take the lead," He told Hope, "Our government stooges won''t be able to hassle you afterwards if you were just ''following'' in my wake."


    Hope gave him a measured look, "What are you going to do that would have agents potentially hassling me?"


    Murder the shit out of Stane and his puppet¡­ "Oh, nothing illegal really, just taking Stane and his clone or whatever it is, somewhere private for a chat."


    "We''re pulling up, boss." Domino said, suddenly serious, "SHIELD is already on site, waiting for us." She tapped her ear, where the communication from their security team was fed straight to Domino.


    Justin rolled his eyes, "Of course they are, they wouldn''t want to be seen like they''re following behind us, like good little puppies."


    Justin knew he already had snipers monitoring the building, a fast response force with helicopters in case he needed backup, the heavily armed team following him, and a trump card for just in case.


    Stane wouldn''t be able to outambush him.


    Nothing he could bring to bear would beat Extremis and Domino either.


    They got out of the armored limousine, just in time to see the glass doors opening, Natasha Romanoff, or as she was known currently, Natalie Dormer, walking out, holding a clipboard, walking past the SHIELD agents like they didn''t even exist, walking up instead to Justin and Hope.


    "Mr Stane is still willing to meet with you Miss Van Dyne, despite this rudeness with your arrival." She said smoothly, her eyes flickering to Justin without even a hint of the rage she probably felt inside, "And of course, he''s delighted at your surprising inclusion, Mister Hammer."


    "Stane and I go way back, sweetheart." Justin said with a grin, eyeing Natashalie in a way that earned him an elbow to the gut from Hope.


    Natalie smiled politely, ignoring the byplay, "Mr Stane requested that no more than four bodyguards in total may enter the premises." Her eyes swept the heavily armed regiment of Hammer securities soldiers. "We feel that it''s being very generous considering the unexpected addition to today''s meeting."


    Before anyone could respond, Agent Coulson stepped up, "Myself and Barton here are Miss Van Dynes bodyguards." He stated firmly, the thin line of his lips demanding that no one argued the point.


    Hope simply looked towards Justin, who made a show of thinking it over, just to mess with the SHIELD agents, before shrugging and pointing at Domino, "I just need her, so I guess we''re only taking three." He said to Natashalie.


    She gave him a perfect customer service smile, "Then please follow me." She murmured, turning abruptly and walking rapidly towards the building, owned by a shell company, that was owned by another shell company and so on, to the extent Justin had no idea who actually owned it. Albeit it seemed fairly obvious it would be Stane.


    Domino flashed a couple of hand signals, and the security team began moving rapidly, to take up positions around the building, ready to breach if necessary, or to provide cover if they had to exit rapidly.


    Worst case, they could blow the building. Justin and Hope would survive, and Domino would trip herself out of trouble somehow.


    They entered through the glass doors, Domino by his side, and Barton by Hope''s, while Coulson walked alongside their ''host'', totally not sharing secret messages or codes through blinking or something.


    It was odd that she hadn''t contacted them at all, but was so freely allowed to come get them like this, had she really had no way of slipping away for even a single report? Justin watched her suspiciously, because if Tony Stark could be replaced, why not Natashalie?


    And it wasn''t just so he could watch her delightful rump as she walked in high heels either. That was simply a bonus.


    "Do you have to ogle every woman you see?" Hope murmured lowly to him as they walked through an empty lobby, a perfect ambush spot, the upper floors having balconies from where one could pin down anyone on the bottom floor, the inside open all the way up to the top floor, in the style of a mall.


    Justin nodded briefly, as he kept his eyes peeled for the expected ambush. "Of course, it would be the height of rudeness for me not to appreciate beautiful women such as yourself, Hope." He replied, on autopilot. His glasses investigated his surroundings for any signs, switching to heat vision. Ah. There it is.


    Justin coughed lightly, "I believe we will be waiting in here for our host." He told Natashalie, drawing glances from everyone else.


    "You want to wait in the killbox?" Clint said in disbelief, shaking his head, "Aren''t you supposed to be a genius?"


    Natashalie looked back at him, her face placid, but her back ramrod straight with tension, "Is there something the matter, Mister Hammer?" She asked, demurely.


    Domino already had two guns out, sweeping their surroundings warily, immediately trusting in her boss to have a reason for his insanity.


    Your firing has been revoked, He told her mentally, for that show of support. His glasses already showed where his trump card was waiting and ready if necessary, he didn''t intend to risk Hope''s life. Even if it would be difficult to remove her with conventional means, since she received the Extremis treatment after the Suez. He lazily raised his hand, pointing forward to the entrance they were heading for. "8 people in that small room ahead, I think I prefer this big open space¡­"


    Depending on what they were packing, in that small space even Extremis would only help so much if they all let loose with nowhere to dodge.


    Natashalie gave him a long glance, before she shared a look with Coulson, obviously realizing the jig was up either way. She reached out a hand to Clint, who immediately gave her a gun, as she tied her hair into a ponytail one handed. "You always ruin everything, don''t you Hammer?" She said caustically. "Couldn''t even play along for one god damn minute."


    Justin grinned, winking at her, "It is part of my charm, Natashalie. One part out of many that you enjoyed, over and over again."


    "Can I shoot him? He regenerates now, it won''t even do any harm." She asked Coulson coldly, checking over her gun, making sure it was set for the coming confrontation.


    Coulson glanced over at Domino, before dryly replying, "If I thought we wouldn''t end up with a ricochet to the groin, I''d allow it." He looked ahead, "What can you tell us?" He asked soberly, Clint stepping away from Hope to give Natasha a slight jab to the shoulder, a smile on his face.


    Justin stepped next to Hope, Domino coming over as well, the divide between the two groups very clear, "They''re moving, they''ve seen that we''ve stopped." He mumbled to Domino, one hand on Hope''s arm, "Just stick close, Hope, you''re in no danger here."


    She smirked, patting his hand, "Don''t worry, Justin, this is actually exciting in a way, and I can take care of myself." She seemed very confident of that, making Justin wonder.


    Before the SHIELD agents could fully familiarize themselves with Natashalies report, the doors opened, and Obadiah Stane walked out, followed by several masked men and women. They were fully covered, so there wasn''t any hint as to who they were.


    Justin was shocked that Stane was actually on site, even if it made it easier for him. That said¡­ His eyes narrowed as he noticed one heat signature hadn''t come out, and was moving to an upper floor instead, utilizing another exit back there presumably. Who''s to say this is even Stane? It could also be a doppelganger¡­


    Stane, if that is who it was, smiled and splayed out his arms in a welcoming manner, "Mister Hammer and Miss Van Dyne, precisely the people I wanted to meet."


    "You haven''t made it especially easy to find you¡­" Justin pointed out, eyeing the masked men and women, his glasses not able to tell much with how covered they were, couldn''t exactly pull off facial recognition like that.


    Stane grinned toothily, "It was all to get you here, today, my boy." He said exultantly, gesturing to their surroundings, "The people who can change this world, all in the same place." He lowered his head, staring sorrowfully at Natashalie, "That said, traitors and agents aren''t invited, I''m afraid I''m going to have to ask you to leave us be, to charter in a new world."


    Justin tapped Domino on one wrist, gaining her attention and looking upwards, mouthing one, at her, to let her know they had someone moving on the upper floors, while Stane was busy monologuing at the SHIELD agents.


    Domino nodded, keeping an eye out for a possible second ambush.


    "I''m afraid we can''t do that, Mister Stane, and despite your¡­ Entourage, this building is surrounded, you''d do yourself a favor if you simply cooperated at this point." Agent Coulson said succinctly, both Natashalie and Clint pointing handguns at the businessman.


    "Shouldn''t we do something?" Hope whispered into Justin''s ear.


    He shook his head, speaking barely audibly, "Let SHIELD take the first hit."


    It would allow Justin to see exactly what Stane was capable of after all.


    "I already know you''re not Obadiah Stane." Natashalie cut in suddenly, her gun fixed on the man who stopped speaking, giving her a wounded look, "You''re the same man that impersonated Tony Stark¡­"


    Justin''s focus shifted away from the men behind him, and the still moving heat signature that was moving to a position just above them. This, this was the man he wanted to rip apart!


    This was the bastard who needed to die for messing with Justin''s plans. For daring to try and prevent Tony Stark from having the resources to be Iron Man.


    Stane sighed, shaking his head, "We let you know that much, my dear." He said in a suddenly Russian accent. "I spotted you the second you entered our service, people in my profession do keep an eye on people in your profession, you know."


    He eyed them dispassionately, "The SHIELD agents are an impediment." He said, as if to no one.


    From one second to the next, one of the men behind ''Stane'' teleported behind the SHIELD agents, shooting them, Coulson and Barton both slumping down, immediately unconscious - even as Natashalie danced away, bringing her gun up to fire at the teleporter, who simply dodged, disappearing from sight.


    Domino was tense, giving Justin a questioning look, but he slowly shook his head at her. Even with the reveal that the people facing them had abilities, he still felt secure enough. They''d find out more information without the SHIELD agents in the way, and Fury couldn''t even complain, because Justin had taken them everywhere with them.


    It was not his fault they were too weak to do anything. Fury should have sent better people.


    Before Natashalie could fire again, one of the other ability users crashed into her, managing to hold her still long enough for the teleporter to nail her with the same stun gun he''d been using. Natashalie slumping unconscious, while in the process of trying to scissor her legs around the head of the man holding her.


    Slut, Justin thought uncharitably, Already finding another man, after betraying FStane.


    "We appreciate your cooperation." ''Stane'' said to Justin and Hope, smiling smarmily.


    "Where''s the actual Obadiah Stane?" Justin asked coldly, If that snake manages to wiggle out of this by claiming he was also impersonated¡­


    Justin wasn''t the kind of villain who blew up the moon or took a city hostage or anything, but he might start if Obadiah Stane walked away scot free from all of this.


    ''Stane'' shrugged, "Oh, who knows, it''s really not any of your business anyway, is it?" He said with an easy grin, still speaking with a Russian accent.


    "Domino, shoot out his kneecap." Justin ordered, squeezing Hope''s hand to reassure her, especially now that he was going to be a little more serious than he usually was around her.


    Then again, she had been at the Suez canal. She was hardly a shrinking violet.


    The men and women protecting the doppelganger moved, but were unable to prevent the shot, as Domino fired a shot that ricocheted of a metal pipe, and despite the doppelganger literally being picked up and moved across the room by the teleporter, still managed to shoot out his left kneecap, causing the man to collapse to the floor in a shrill scream of pain and rage. The masked men and women all turned to face Justin, silently.


    "I asked a question." Justin said mildly, glaring threateningly at them.


    "Dimitri, cease your whimpering, it''s only a knee." An amused voice said from right above them.


    Justin stiffened, looking up, he''d forgotten about the last man. He immediately cursed upon seeing him, recognizing him, both from their meeting, and Emma''s warning. Which was not good for the current situation.


    Sebastian Shaw.


    The grinning man looked down on them, "How do you like my hellions, Hammer?" He asked, gesturing to the silent and covered up men and women, who he now could guess were all mutants.


    Before he could answer, the man leading the Hellfire club switched his gaze, "Ah, but I would be remiss to not speak to the honored guest, Miss Van Dyne, first." The sleazy tone of his voice, and the covetous gaze, made Justin want to rip the man apart for daring to assault Hope with either.


    Hope sniffed imperiously, "This is not even the best kidnapping attempt this month." She snarked, making Justin feel oddly proud, even if it was really bad timing for it.


    Shaw was dangerous. But then again¡­


    So was he!


    Sebastian laughed, his large hands easily crushing the steel balcony railing he was holding onto, before he jumped down, easily landing in front of them, the floor shattering around him, his Hellions quickly surrounding him in formation. "You have spunk, that''s good, it will do a lot while you work under me, girl." He said approvingly.


    "That''s not happening, Shaw." Justin said, thoughts whirling with the revelation Shaw was involved with Stane and the fake Tony gambit. And from what Emma had said¡­ He would never allow Shaw to lay his hands on Hope, no matter what.


    Justin was a different breed of villain from the monster standing in front of him.


    Shaw gave him a considering look, rubbing his chin, "You know, I''m sure when you met the delectable Miss Frost, she would have mentioned the position that''s open, just waiting for you¡­" He pointed at Hope, grinning wildly, "Just give me the woman, and you can join me as a fellow King, together we can rule this world." He offered, holding the other hand out towards him, palm open.


    Justin laughed harshly, uncaring how some of the hellions bristled at the action, "I am already at the top of the world." He said callously, "Don''t kid yourself, Shaw, you''d invite me even if I ripped every single one of your pathetic Hellions apart, because you need me onboard, not outside your influence."


    The Hellfire club could hardly proclaim themselves superior as long as the biggest businessman in the world stayed apart, could it?


    Shaw grinned darkly, "Perhaps, perhaps, or maybe you are wrong, and would one woman really be worth all that?" He made a sweeping gesture, "Any woman in the world could be yours, I just ask for that one."


    Worth it? Not usually, not for most anyone else, but when she comes with Pym particles, she''d be worth a hell of a lot more. Justin thought, plus, she''s my friend, or whatever we are.


    Justin gave off his own dark grin, itching to kill everyone in here for the trouble of this situation, and for looking at Hope like a piece of meat. "I have a counteroffer, walk away, leave me the doppel, and I won''t kill everyone of your little minions, and you." Especially you.


    Emma''s info on him that she''d shared, made it unlikely he could easily destroy Shaw today, he hadn''t been prepared for him, but his minions, he was fairly certain he had the firepower for. Shaw really had an annoyingly strong power.


    Shaw threw his head back, roaring in laughter, even as Dimitri, the doppelganger still looking like Obadiah Stane, held his knee and whimpered, looking fearful, likely wondering if the offer would be accepted.


    "You have a set on you, Hammer." Shaw said appreciatively, "But I''m taking the woman."


    "The hell you are." Hope spat, "Stop talking about me like I''m some possession!"


    "Take her." He ordered casually, waving his minions on.


    "Vanko." Justin said, his glasses transmitting it, setting off his trump card.


    No one knew he''d brought Vanko out to San Francisco. Except Domino. He was the surprise no enemy wanted.


    The wall on the second floor on the east side of the building disintegrated, dust falling down, the hellions stopping as Shaw raised his hand in a fist, eyes wary for the first time.


    Vanko, in full Whiplash regalia, arc reactors glaringly bright, hovered above them, "Want full power? I think not? But maybe try, it will be good for research - not I think, so good for you, but eh, at least no worry paying for coffin, da?" Vanko''s voice blared over the speakers, weapons all aiming at the Hellions.


    "Like I was saying, Hope isn''t going anywhere, and you need me, a lot more than I need you." Justin said, having been prepared for an ambush, but not exactly prepared for this mindfuck.


    Where was Obadiah Stane?


    If Shaw was intimidated by the armor that could eradicate Wakandan warships, he didn''t show it, laughing again, staring up at Whiplash. "Oh, Hammer, you''ll fit right in." He said, "No hard feelings, eh." He added, tilting his head towards Hope, "You won this round."


    "I want him!" Justin insisted, pointing at Dimitri, who seconds later disappeared as the teleporting Hellion took him and ran. Justin''s gaze whipped back to Shaw, enraged, that''s the fucker I wanted to rip apart you absolute ass! "Bring him back!" He demanded.


    Shaw shook his head, "Dimitri is useful, if a bit pathetic, and if I allowed you to kill him, I''d have to execute another asset on top of this asset, and you don''t have anything to offer me for that, unless you''ve changed your mind about Miss Van Dyne?"


    Justin clenched his fists, rage threatening to spill over. "Fine!" He spat. "We leave it as it is¡­" I can always go after Stane himself¡­


    Shaw nodded amicably, seemingly not bothered at all about having failed at his goal, "Pleasure doing business, Hammer, I''ll see you soon."


    Not if I see you first, asshole¡­


    <hr>


    Afghanistan, Gulmira region.


    James Rhodes, glanced at the video feed the drone was giving them, feeling a spark of hope for the first time in a long time. "That''s a lot of StarkTech for a compound of terrorists." He commented, looking over Brock Rumlow''s shoulder.


    Rumlow grunted in amusement, "You boys have been doing a terrible job letting some cave people get access to honest to god missiles." His fingers flying over the keyboard, as he operated the drone that had detached from his armor earlier that night.


    James looked at the silent armor standing just a few feet away, feeling a small stab of jealousy at the thought of flight in such armor instead of a jet. The Vulture, unlike the heavy blocky armor of the Scorpion, was a sleek masterpiece that looked like it belonged in the sky, not here in the sand with the rest of them.


    "Stop drooling, former Colonel Rhodes." Rumlow said, lips pulling back in a taunting grin, even as he continued to operate the drone.


    This again¡­


    "Alright, you can stop it with that, okay?" He said, crossing his arms, his eyes focusing on the screen as the drone zoomed in, the cave system appeared heavily guarded - almost like they had something or someone important in there. "And I am, like you''re so eager to point out, a former Colonel, so don''t bitch at me for any lost missiles."


    Inwardly he was frowning, because this, coupled with whatever was going on with the doppelganger in America, was leading to some very pointed questions for Obadiah Stane. Just what Tony needed, someone close to him turning out to be an asshole, just like his dad - except worse.


    Frank Castle walked up, with two mugs of coffee, nodding at James as he offered a mug, James returned the nod, getting along much better with the other man, despite him being a ground pounder.


    He was much less of an ass for starters.


    Rumlow laughed quietly, even as the drone switched sights to get a good look at the entire hidden compound, switching to other sights like infrared. "Can''t stop, former Colonel Rhodes. Hammer Industries sent out a company wide email declaring that anyone who runs into you needs to address you properly."


    James pinched the bridge of his nose, glancing over at Frank, who nodded silently, corroborating the story. "Just fantastic." He grumbled, that reminds me way too much of Tony too¡­


    The two of them might actually be best friends if they weren''t both giant assholes at the core.


    "Think this is the place?" He asked Rumlow, as while he technically was in command of this little Hammer venture, Brock and Frank weren''t people he could order around unless they let him.


    This wasn''t the military, not anymore.


    They had two very large and deadly reasons why James walked carefully around them.


    Not to mention a line directly to Hammer, who was financing this whole venture, leaving James with no options to really argue.


    Rumlow laughed, with an eager undertone to it as he stared at the screen almost hungrily. "Oh, I''m willing to bet on it!" He said, slowly moving the drone back out, before there was any chance someone might notice it and ruin everything.


    Frank grunted in agreement, James eyeing him for long enough that the withdrawn man spoke up, "No good reason for that much stuff just laying around, unless it''s for Stark." He offered his opinion.


    James agreed with him, but was almost scared to actually hope. It had been so long, he sometimes laid awake at night fearing for the worst, that all he''d find was bones - or even worse, never finding anything at all, never knowing¡­


    "If he''s in that cave, we need to go in full bore, shock and awe, and penetrate deep enough they don''t have time to kill him." Brock said, laying out his ideal plan.


    Frank shook his head, a grimace on his face, "You just want to be flashy, don''t be stupid, we have to get people in there before we start blowing shit up, or you''re just begging for a hostage situation."


    "You''re too much of a pussy, Frank." Rumlow teased, a wicked grin on his face.


    "And you''re a battle hungry glory hound." Frank returned gruffly.


    They both turned to James, who thanked God, that they were actually looking like they were going to let him plan this. Because this was Tony''s life they were talking about, potentially.


    "Okay¡­ Here''s what we''re going to do¡­" He said, taking a small page out of Tony''s book, because sometimes,


    Audacity got you places.


    <hr>


    Tony sat quietly, watching Yinsen sleep, his own restlessness preventing any chance at the same for him.


    They still had some way to go before they finished their only shot at getting out of here, he was pretty sure the terrorists knew he wasn''t building their Jericho missile, but they didn''t seem to care.


    Something which worried him at the same time as it filled him with relief. Because if he could just finish it before they decided to care, they could get out of here.


    He took a deep breath, wincing at the pain, one hand hovering above his chest, pain was getting real friendly with him now, almost his best buddy really, they just spent all the time together, a necessity really¡­


    Their captors actually had pain medication, but Tony couldn''t afford to have any shaking hands or dizzy thoughts right now, they were living on the edge as it was.


    Although with the kind of shit he''d tried in his life, he''d probably not even notice the pain medication. Still, best to not take any chances.


    He sighed quietly, rubbing his face, this all had really put things in perspective, his company was responsible for this kind of shit, blowing up American soldiers, arming terrorists.


    Selling weapons had never much mattered before, but now that he''d experienced being on the other end, he could honestly say that he was wasting his genius on this. Finding ways to kill more people? Everyone was already doing that. He could do so much better.


    Could do something different then dear old dad¡­


    Yinsen let out a whimper, and Tony almost got up, but sank back at the last moment. He was hardly someone who could comfort anyone else. He didn''t even know where to start, for all that Yinsen had been the catalyst to his own resurrection.


    Had kicked Tony back into gear instead of leaving him lamenting on the unfairness of life.


    Whatever I manage to do, you''ll get to see your family again, Yinsen. He thought, determinedly.


    There was suddenly a lot of noise, men screaming as they ran down the tunnel, Tony getting up, heart thundering as he shook Yinsen awake. This can''t be a good sign, he thought, eyes flickering to the suit of armor, half finished.


    Yinsen slowly rose out of his cot, face paling as he became immediately awake upon the sound of shouting and the locks of their cell being jostled. "What''s going on, Stark?" He asked, putting his glasses on.


    Tony shook his head, unsure of the reason for the sudden commotion. "I don''t speak terrorist." He quipped, lacking literally anything else he could do other than attempt bravado. I can''t go back to torture again, I barely managed the first time¡­


    Let me keep my mouth shut, for once. He prayed, not sure to who, because if there was a god, he had a shit sense of humor.


    Being blown up by your own missile belonged in a comic book, not the real world.


    Yinsen came to stand beside him, head subserviently low, as the door began to open, "I can hear them shouting about strangers at the gate. Visitors?" He whispered to Tony.


    Tony sagged slightly, keeping his eyes low as Raza entered their cell. Visitors could not be good news for him¡­


    "Look at me Tony Stark." Raza growled, planting a gun under his chin, forcing his head up. Only due to this, did Tony catch the drone that slowly entered the cell and flew up to the ceiling silently, oddly bird-like in appearance with green scales that almost looked like feathers, they had a glint to them he''d only seen once before¡­


    It couldn''t be¡­


    "Look at me!" Raza shouted, spittle flying into Tony''s face, drawing Tony''s attention back to the maniac terrorist leader.


    "Alright, I''m looking, you look lovely today, are you on a new skin care routine?" Tony snarked, immediately regretting it. Raza had shown him many times how much he appreciated back talk. Out of the corner of his eyes, he could see Yinsen close his eyes and mutter prayers under his breath.


    Oh, come on, I am not that bad!


    "Why, Tony Stark, are there people here offering 100 million dollars for you?" Raza asked harshly, for once ignoring the snark, and getting straight to the point.


    Tony''s eyes widened, "Wow, a hundred mill¡­ Gotta say¡­ I feel like that''s a bit low, you know, I mean I never imagined myself being sold, but if I had to put a price on it¡­ 500 mill, minimum" The gun was shoved hard up his chin, pushing Tony up on his tippy toes, Raza growling fiercely at him, fire in his eyes, "Alright, I don''t know, is it my godfather maybe? Big bald man with a beard?" Tony tried, having no clue honestly about who would just walk into a terrorist compound.


    Obie can''t be that dumb¡­ Can he? He wondered.


    Raza scoffed, "They''re here to pay for your execution, not to release you."


    Tony thought about the drone above them, and had a feeling Raza and these visitors had different ideas. Although claiming to be here to see him dead was almost smart, get on the terrorists side and all that, except for the whole part where Raza might actually kill him.


    Tony would have words with whoever organized this rescue if it actually worked.


    Raza removed his gun from Tony, as he patted him on the cheek, "Perhaps if you don''t deliver soon, I will sell your death, hmm?" He took a step away, barking something that Tony didn''t need a translator to figure out what it meant - kill the visitors.


    As soon as no weapons were pointed at Tony, the drone above them fired.


    Yinsen cried out in fear, dancing on the spot, as Raza and the men with him, all fell, dead immediately from headshots. "What''s going on!?" Yinsen cried out.


    Tony slowly smiled, as he stared up at the honestly beautiful piece of tech. Is that fucking Vibranium? Gimme! "I believe we''re being rescued¡­" He said, trying to keep his emotions back, the suit of armor had been a longshot, a shot that maybe they''d get it finished before they were horribly killed, he''d half believed he was going to die any day now¡­


    The drone zeroed in on Tony, a voice speaking out of it, "I''d suggest taking cover behind something, your bodyguard and savior is about to make a dynamic entry."


    Tony grabbed Yinsen, and dragged him behind their workbench, grabbing his cot with him to add another layer between them and the entrance.


    They could both hear screaming in Arabic, gunfire and explosions in the distance.


    One man with an assault rifle ran into the cell, screaming, the drone dropping him immediately, the man falling down the stairs, a hole right in the middle of his forehead.


    Just as Tony began to relax, something big smashed through the doors, sending them careening across the floor, dust and debris falling from the ceiling of the cave.


    "Tony Stark." An electronic voice said through the dust cloud, "You are safe, the Scorpion will defend this area until the hostiles have been cleared."


    Tony laughed, hugging Yinsen, who was blinking stupidly behind his glasses, seemingly not able to believe they''d been rescued. The laughter cut off, as the dust cleared, and they both saw their rescuer.


    It was a large Scorpion, the tail swaying in the air behind it, as the power armor - and it couldn''t be anything else - covered the entrance, a multitude of weapons arrayed against the hole that used to hold the entrance doors, including a massive rotary cannon over one shoulder, that spun as it turned towards the entrance, panicked screaming indicating terrorists who had changed their mind about running this way.


    "Say the line." The voice from the drone said eagerly.


    "No." The Scorpion said, swatting at the drone with its tail, the drone easily evading.


    "C''mon, you have to say it. When else are you going to get a chance?" The voice insisted, even as Tony took in every angle, every piece of this beautiful beast in front of him, freezing suddenly as he took in just exactly what was powering this monster in front of him.


    The Scorpion sighed, the sagging of shoulders visible even in the armor, the drone letting out a whoop of excitement, laughing, even as gun fire continued outside.


    Tony ignored that, gaping in shock at the Arc reactor he could see slotted into the armor in front of him, more than one, in fact! "What the hell!?" He spluttered, stabbing a finger forward to point at it, one hand grasping the one in his chest. "What, how!?"


    The Scorpion loomed over him, somehow managing to pull off looking embarrassed, as it spoke through its external speakers, "Tony Stark, its¡­" He sighed heavily, "Hammer Time!"


    "What the fuck does that even mean!?"


    "For fucks sake, Frank, you said it wrong, now we look lame!"


    "... Die in a fire Rumlow."


    Tony slowly sat back down, head spinning, "Someone please explain what the fuck is going on¡­" He managed to get out, Yinsen patting him gently on one shoulder.


    "This is just a dream right? I finally succumbed to the fever¡­ Yeah that''s it¡­"


    <hr>

 The Tony Stark Interlude.

    <hr>


    Afghanistan, Bagram Air base.


    Tony felt an uncomfortable itch in his everywhere, as they drove through the gates of Bagram Air base. Not because of any of his no doubt myriad of health issues right now¡­


    Chez Afghanistan somewhat lacked in the room service department, understandably, plus you know¡­ All the torture. God he could kill for a drink right now¡­ He thought, straining his neck to try and peer ahead at the truck holding what he wanted to see.


    His literal vision had come to life in front of him, his cobbled together arc reactor and desperate attempt at power armor - already eclipsed by someone else, as seen in his saviors.


    And they wouldn''t let him touch it!!


    The worst kind of cock tease ever, and it was driving him mad!


    Okay, so he was slightly malnourished, suffering from a little metal poisoning possibly, and had a battery in his chest to keep him alive - but that had never stopped him from tinkering before!


    He was Tony Stark, you couldn''t just wave Vibranium and power armor in front of him and then say hands off, it broke all the statues of the Geneva convention - he was pretty sure.


    "Tones, come on, are you still pouting?" Rhodey asked tiredly, with a hint of exasperated fondness.


    Tony slowly turned his head around to fix him with a look, "One, I am in no way, pouting, do you see a little girl here?" He raised a finger quickly, speaking over Rhodey''s quick grin, "Don''t answer that!" Before continuing on, "I am a man, the man, in fact, sugarplum - and men brood." he gestured expansively with one arm, "Secondly, you''re not allowed to get snarky with me, for at least a year, because what!?"


    Yinsen, who was sharing the humvee with them, and looked perpetually surprised to be alive, gingerly spoke up, watching him concernedly, "I don''t think, under the circumstances, that it would be good for your health to get worked up right now, not until you''ve seen a doctor."


    Tony rolled his eyes, "You''re a doctor aren''t you? And you''ve seen me plenty." He said glibly, hiding the abject terror he felt at the thought of letting some army docs dig around his chest.


    He wasn''t letting anyone play with his life. Not anymore.


    Yinsen played with his glasses somewhat self consciously, "I didn''t exactly have access to anything to treat you properly with, Mister Stark."


    Tony shook his head, feeling somewhat annoyed with the good doc, because even with all the help he''d given in saving him, he''d also told Rhodey everything, which was so not cool!


    Rhodey was enough of a mama bear without knowing about¡­ That.


    So he was tortured a little¡­ Lot. It didn''t mean he needed to be suffering from constant man hugs.


    He stabbed a finger towards the doctor he owed his life to, "Na-ah, it''s Tony from now on doc - limited time deal only for those who save my life, also your hired, the salary is whatever you want, job title is whatever you want." He paused, trying to think of anything else, but eventually shrugged, smirking at the shocked looking man, "So now you have to be nice to me!"


    Rhodey clapped the man on the shoulder, looking sympathetic, "I wouldn''t argue too hard, he usually gets what he wants, but forget about the nice thing, keep telling him what he needs to hear, it''s good for him." He glanced at Tony, with quirked lips, "He could use a doctor he actually listens to, for his many many bad habits."


    Rude. I only have like five bad habits, tops.


    "I''m starting to see that." Yinsen sighed, taking off his glasses and pinching the bridge of his nose.


    Tony squawked, offended, "Hey! My bad habits are part of my charm!" He insisted, feeling the humvee slow to a stop, immediately peeking out to see if he could get another sight of the Vulture and Scorpion armors.


    Fucking Vibranium! Someone is going to get an earful from hiding all that sweet stuff from me! Only enough for a frisbee, my ass! He thought, hands twitching, as the plans and blueprints that were practically burned into his mind at this point, itched to be made into reality.


    Some two plus months in a cave in Afghanistan had not had nearly enough mental stimulation for his tastes.


    "It''s part of your something." Rhodey muttered, giving the still somewhat shell shocked doctor another clap on the shoulder, "Let''s go doc, you should get a proper check up as well as Tony¡­" He said pensively.


    Tony immediately zeroed in on Rhodey''s face with laser focus, eyes narrowing, "Honey bear, what are you hiding, you''ve been off this entire trip?" He tilted his head slightly, "I mean other than the two giant power armors, the fact you''re not in uniform, or the fact we''re not actually outside the base medical facilities?"


    Tony had been around enough of them to know the layout, and this didn''t fit.


    Rhodey grimaced, settling back into his seat, releasing the car door he''d been about to open. "Yeah¡­ There''s been some changes all around, Tones." He rubbed his head tiredly, "I can''t even begin to get to them all right now, but as for the most immediate concern, we''re parked outside the only Panacea clinic in Afghanistan."


    Yinsen perked up, "Panacea? The cure for all illnesses?" He queried, peering out at the clinic, which built on a military base as it was, looked indistinguishable from any other building on base.


    Tony scoffed, annoyed that his best friend was refusing to come clean about everything right away, his lips thinned as he pondered if he somehow thought Tony was fragile right now¡­ "Bit of a pretentious name for a clinic then." He said mockingly, "And since when did the military start contracting out medical care? Congress has something against cute military nurses now?"


    Honestly it wouldn''t surprise me, they seem busier trying to get into people''s sex lives than worrying about starving kids or the crap education system. Tony thought darkly, having had plenty of experience with the idiocy of politicians. Education one of the only national concerns he actually somewhat gave a crap about.


    MIT needed less idiots.


    Rhodey visibly winced, hesitating. Tony could literally see his friend parsing through what to reveal and what to hold back, his hands clenching slightly as he felt a flash of bitterness, He doesn''t trust me enough, maybe he thinks I talked, gave away secrets under torture, that I was weak¡­


    "Congress¡­ Was completely destroyed in a terrorist attack shortly after your disappearance, only the designated survivor lived, they haven''t decided anything since." Rhodey said, avoiding his gaze, his voice heavy with anger and pain.


    Tony couldn''t blame him, as he leaned back in his seat in complete shock, one shaking hand reaching up to rub along his jaw, as his mind whirled with this new information. Connected to me? No¡­ This is something different, worse than 9/11, who? How!?


    "Let''s get you checked over." Rhodey said abruptly, opening the door on his side of the Humvee, "You too doc." He said seriously, before ducking out, avoiding the issue.


    "Hey! You can''t just leave it like that!?" Tony shouted, scrambling to get out of the Humvee and after his bestie, his mind drawing a blank again as he stepped outside, seeing the Vulture and Scorpion armors up close in the open truck parked ahead of them, Frank and Brock - the pilots, hanging around outside watching him.


    It took Yinsen softly speaking with him to muster his will to enter the clinic, the last thing he needed right now was someone poking around his chest - and still he craned his neck back to watch the two beauties as he was ushered inside.


    Screw congress, what had they ever done for him anyway?


    He wanted to know more about who created those!


    Unfortunately his attention was soon diverted somewhere else, as he gaped at the interior of the so-called Panacea clinic.


    Rhodey stopped dead, ahead of him, sighing and muttering so low Tony almost didn''t catch it, "Of course he would¡­"


    The area inside was nothing like any military base or clinic Tony had ever seen, all earthy colors and comfort, instead of white and sterile. There was an honest to god fountain in the middle of the lobby giving the room a relaxed atmosphere that didn''t fit at all with what it was supposed to be, or its location in the middle of a military base.


    Of course, none of that drew the attention as much as the full wall covering portrait of Justin fucking Hammer, arms spread out welcomingly, text underneath declaring that - All are welcome, Justin Hammer will cure all your ills!


    Tony wanted to gag, he''d only been gone a little over two months, how on earth had Hammer gotten his claws into the military to the point they allowed this scam?


    Surely Congress all going the way of the dodo wasn''t enough for everyone to lose all common sense?


    Tony stepped up next to Rhodey, "Tell me you''re joking, honest to god buddy, tell me you are." He said with a grimace, staring at the portrait, "I''ll admit, it''s one hell of a prank. You got me, we all laughed and vomited in disgust. But you know, I have a heart condition now, you shouldn''t scare me like this!"


    Rhodey visibly hesitated again, and it was beginning to really set Tony off, he wasn''t some wounded animal that needed careful handling! He was Tony fucking Stark! "Don''t bullshit me, Rhodey¡­" He warned, some honest anger bleeding into his tone.


    His best friend rubbed his face wearily, "I''m sorry Tones, I''m just trying to not lay too much at your feet right now, you''ve literally just been rescued from captivity."


    Tony shook his head stubbornly, "You know me, platypus, when have I ever been comfortable with being kept in the dark and fed shit? Give it to me straight, I can take it." He raised his chin arrogantly, challengingly, daring Rhodey to try and turn him down.


    Rhodey nodded seriously, still looking uncomfortable, but finally acknowledging Tony was a big boy apparently, because he began talking, "It¡­ The Panacea clinics came from a new miracle drug that Justin Hammer introduced to the world just after you disappeared." Rhodey began explaining, Yinsen stepping closer, his interest clear.


    "It''s a drug and genetic treatment through something called a cradle, capable of curing everything from Cancer to Alzheimer''s." He said quietly, chuckling a little as both Yinsen and Tony, as scientists looked at him with skepticism. He raised his hands, "Look, it''s all been proven beyond any doubt that it works, clinics are popping up worldwide, countries are fighting over who gets more access sooner. This miracle drug can even, at the highest setting - regenerate lost limbs!" At the continued skeptical looks, he added, "Tones¡­ I''ve seen it happen in real time, at this base. It''s real."


    "This¡­ Makes doctors obsolete." Yinsen muttered, with tears in his eyes. Tony raised a hand to maybe comfort the man, but aborted the motion halfway through, as the doctor smiled through his tears, "This is the greatest discovery in mankind''s history!" He exulted, "Disease has been vanquished!"


    Tony felt uncomfortable at going that far, Justin Hammer was a joke, as average a man as could be, nothing special. Certainly not like this. "Tell me you''re joking, Rhodey¡­" He asked weakly, his eyes drawn to the larger than life portrait of Justin Hammer, and his self satisfied smirk.


    "He''s not joking." Came the rumbling voice of Brock Rumlow, who Tony hadn''t even noticed had followed them in. He was leaning casually against the wall next to the entrance, arms crossed as he raised an amused eyebrow, staring him down. "Who do you think paid for saving your ass, for all of this?" He asked, gesturing to everything.


    Tony slowly looked towards Rhodey, because that was just bullshit, right? Justin Hammer could not have been the one who organized all this, he did not have some kickass power armor, he did not create miniature arc reactors before Tony did! Not added onto already creating an honest go god fucking Panacea! "Honey bear?" He managed to choke out as a query.


    Rhodey grabbed his arm, his conflicted expression telling him everything, Tony hadn''t even noticed he''d been swaying as he grabbed onto Rhodey''s arm with both hands, "What happened!?" He implored desperately, because this was just wrong, wrong, wrong! The world couldn''t change that much!


    Suddenly Yinsen was there, gently extracting him from Rhodey, leading him to an armchair, crouching down to be eye level to Tony as he sank into a chair, his mind overwhelmed with the impossibilities.


    "Tony¡­ Look at me, pay attention to my voice, breathe with me, in and out, yes, just like that, keep going, just in and out. You''re doing well, just keep doing that." Yinsen kept speaking soothingly, helping Tony breathe, as his panic started to abate.


    "I''m alright." Tony said eventually, taking a big gulp of a breath, his unfocused eyes going sharply back into focus as he forced himself back, Jesus I just had what? A panic attack? In front of everyone! Rhodey¡­ He''s never going to leave me alone now¡­


    "We''re ready for you."


    Tony slowly got up, he needed to find out what had changed, needed to know.


    He could start with this cradle, seeing it in action.


    There wasn''t anything mechanical on this planet he couldn''t figure out. If Justin Hammer managed to do it, Tony could.


    <hr>


    Hours later, private jet enroute to America.


    Tony sat in the darkness, watching the sleeping forms of Yinsen and Rhodey, both men apparently able to fall to exhaustion, unlike Tony.


    He couldn''t sleep, not with how active his mind was. How could anyone sleep with so many thoughts? So many ideas, designs, plans? His mind was always working on something, which made sleep somewhat of an impossibility at times.


    And that was before he could add the life and times of chez Afghanistan to his nightmares to make sleeping a further impossibility.


    He winced as he took too deep of a breath, the arc reactor in his chest pushed heavily on his lungs the deeper of a breath he took, the pain was already something he was used to. Panacea was not an option for him as of yet as they''d found out, as the clinic wasn''t staffed with surgeons or experts on how the treatment could work in his case, just nurse practitioners with basic knowledge.


    Trust Hammer to go cheap, he thought darkly. Knowing he was perhaps not being fair to the man, but something was definitely rotten in the state of Denmark.


    The timing of it all was just too suspicious.


    With the shrapnel in his chest, he''d instead been put to the side, not able to receive the miracle treatment. Instead he was watching intently as Yinsen received the treatment, healing him of all the ills his body had suffered due to the terrorists treatment of him.


    The cradle was an interesting piece of technology, able to craft genetic material without as much as a hiccup, even without the Panacea drug, the cradle alone could probably deal with most genetic issues in the human genome. Tony couldn''t precisely tell everything about it without getting under the hood - so to speak.


    But he believed he could improve on the process, not that there was much point - not with Panacea added in, allowing for full regeneration and repair down to the cellular level. He had his suspicions there, because he''d seen something similar, once.


    Just for plant matter.


    The process was similar, and he had a feeling Justin Hammer had branched out quite a lot to get this result.


    Which made him feel somewhat better about the whole thing.


    Not that he necessarily hated Hammer or anything, he was too far beneath him to gain such attention. He just knew what kind of person Hammer was, and with his mind, and not to brag, really - but his superior mind - he couldn''t take being so wrong about someone.


    But if Hammer had just hired geniuses to do everything for him and just paid them, then it at least made some sense, fit into Tony''s worldview a little better.


    Because Justin Hammer creating a cure for all diseases? Please! He scoffed, as he savored a glass of scotch, Rhodey having failed in completely removing every bottle of alcohol on the plane. Tony had too many hiding spots on his private jet for this exact reason.


    Well, he thought, not perhaps this ''exact'' reason, but close enough.


    He took another sip, eyeing the two sleeping beauties again, somewhat amused despite everything. The two of them had been dead-set on staying awake and looking after him, and yet they''d conked out less than two hours after takeoff.


    The fact Rhodey had gotten rid of any phones, laptops or tablets however, didn''t bode well, Tony thought. He was annoyed at his best friend for trying to coddle him, and also somewhat afraid to know what exactly he was hiding.


    The death of Congress was enough on its own, and add Hammer both curing the world of disease, one clinic at a time - and having a power armored team at his disposal, all major changes happening since two months ago! It made him weary at the prospect of finding out what else had happened.


    Especially as Rhodey had refused to elaborate on who exactly struck at American soil so completely and successfully.


    Tony felt his resolve to eliminate weapons production weakening at just the thought of how to navigate these new circumstances. America would be out for blood, and anyone saying otherwise, anyone trying to get out for military contracts - would be crucified.


    It was a conundrum, one his active mind couldn''t work on, because Rhodey had limited the amount of information he could get!


    Rhodey knew how Tony''s mind worked. Knew how he''d go mad sitting around not able to do anything. And yet he''d chosen this path, chosen this as the better way. It honestly set all the warning bells ringing in Tony''s head. Afghanistan had been hell, an experience that changed him for life¡­


    He glanced at Yinsen pensively, the man responsible for saving Tony, and giving him a new lease on life, showing him that he could be more than he was, that he should be more than he was. Another man that was also hiding something from him. The offer to have his family picked up, the immigration process expedited, had been fluffed off by the man.


    For someone who''d been so dead set on joining his family, he didn''t seem very keen on the prospect of getting Tony''s assistance to bring them over. Honestly, it had taken way too much convincing just to get the man to come to the states with them - even more to bully him into working for Tony.


    He finished his glass, reaching for the half empty bottle of scotch, letting go off his ponderings on Yinsen for now.


    The important thing was that his new friend was safe, and would be joining him, it meant Tony had someone he could trust to look after the whole situation with the arc reactor in his chest.


    He wasn''t going to trust Hammer with it, no matter what miracles they could perform. He''d find his own way. It would probably take him a few days, but he''d reverse engineer the whole thing as soon as he got his hands on a sample. Then Yinsen could perform the surgery and it would all be done and over with.


    He shuddered slightly, imagining the thought of anyone digging in his chest again, putting his glass down violently, trying not to retch just thinking about it.


    Ugh, I really need a computer¡­


    This is going to be a long flight.


    <hr>


    Hours later, one hour out from California.


    Rhodey''s alarm had gone off awhile ago, waking both his platypus and Yinsen up, Tony himself only succeeded in getting perhaps 30 minutes of - kind of - sleeping, during the entire time.


    His eyes had been closed. That counted, right?


    Obviously it was finally time for some truths, as Rhodey came to sit in front of him, after refreshing himself in the bathroom.


    Once again, Tony felt a slight bit of resentment at his friend, even as it made him feel guilty. He''d saved him, but he was also driving him mad, keeping him out of the loop like this, teasing changes but refusing to let him get his hands on all the information himself so he could parse it properly.


    "Tones¡­ There''s some things you have to know about before we land." Rhodey said heavily, resting his elbows on his knees as he met Tony''s eyes. Yinsen had politely taken a seat further away and was pretending he couldn''t hear every word.


    "You''re damn right there are!" Tony said darkly, his eyes flashing with annoyance. "I could have found it all out myself if you hadn''t decided to go all Mr Nanny on me and child proofed my jet!"


    He could at least have left the stripper flight attendants!


    Rhodey glanced at the empty scotch battle, raising an eyebrow.


    Tony scoffed, waving that aside, "Oh, please, like you didn''t know I''d have a stash somewhere."


    "I''d hoped I found all of them." Rhodey said dryly, "I''m sorry Tones¡­" He said more somberly, "I was exhausted, and I didn''t want you to be alone when you found out everything."


    Tony felt his anger ebb away, as he really looked at his longtime friend, the stubble on his chin that was so unlike his friend he''d almost called him an imposter when he''d first seen him, the weary posture, the bags under his eyes, he felt shame and guilt fill him again, he''s been looking for me this entire time, and I''m throwing a tantrum because he wouldn''t give me the wifi for one night. He thought with chagrin.


    "You''re forgiven." Tony said magnanimously, not wanting to show how bad he felt, "Are you sure you''re rested enough?" He made sure to ask, fretting slightly now that he''d paid attention enough to realize the condition his friend was in. "We can wait until we land¡­"


    Rhodey smiled softly, chuckling, "Never change, Tony." He said, before he pursed his lips, seemingly bracing himself, "Well, better start from the beginning, really." He muttered.


    "Really? I usually start with the ending, the climax!" Tony snarked, smirking.


    Rhodey gave him a deadpan state, "I''m not even going to go there."


    A slight cough from the side brought their attention to Yinsen, who looked much healthier, wearing an actual suit and having gone through the Panacea treatment. The doctor looked away from them, "We will be landing soon." He reminded them softly, still pretending he wasn''t listening in.


    "Yeah, listen to the doctor''s orders, no more interruptions honey bear." Tony said with a teasing smirk, savoring the fond eye roll he received back.


    "Yeah, yeah, whatever you say Tony." He said, letting out a huff, before growing serious again, "You probably already figured it out, but I''m¡­" Rhodey looked pained as he let out another huff, shaking his head, "I''m no longer in the military." He finally admitted.


    Tony had figured as much just from context, but he still felt a spike of anger, his career had been his platypus dream, his life. "Because of me, right?" He asked, adding that consequence to the pile of lives he''d fucked up.


    Rhodey gave him a stern look, "No. And never think that again. I chose to resign." He snapped out, reaching out to squeeze Tony''s knee. "I. Chose. This. You do not get to take credit."


    Tony grimaced, looking away, but that only brought his eyes to Yinsen, another man he owed everything to, so he brought his eyes back to his best friend, "And why did you resign? If not for me?" He argued, although he didn''t put any heat in it.


    Rhodey actually chuckled at that, "Well, for one they did order me to stop searching for you, but mostly, it had nothing to do with your sorry ass, Tones."


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    "Really?" He asked skeptically. Note to self, find out who his superior officer was, and destroy his career.


    Rhodey nodded firmly, "The final straw was when they assigned me as the military liaison to Hammer industries."


    Tony openly gaped at him, "They gave my honey bear to Hammer!?" He protested, eyes narrowing in anger, "That''s not cool, you''re my military liaison, I have receipts and everything, they can''t just give my things away everytime I go for a stroll!"


    Rhodey practically had a property of Tony Stark tattoo on him, he was not interchangeable!


    "I feel the love." Rhodey said dryly. "In the end it worked out, I know you don''t like it, but Hammer paid for this entire retrieval mission, and we couldn''t have gotten you out so quickly without the assistance of his team."


    Tony was still fuming at the temerity of assigning his best friend to his¡­ Well not rival, he wasn''t good enough for that, feuding acquaintance? Good enough, how dare they assign his best friend to his feuding acquaintance!?


    "I owe him." Rhodey said simply, distracting Tony from his plotting to gain revenge on the entire Afghanistan command. "Without him it wouldn''t have been possible." He hesitated briefly, "That said¡­ You should know, Pepper and Jarvis believe he knew you''d be taken."


    Tony froze for a moment, before swiveling his head towards Rhodey, from where he''d been glaring at the interior wall of the jet, imagining horrible things for the generals of Afghanistan''s command structure, "Say what?" He asked flatly.


    "I haven''t been part of those discussions, I''ve been busy searching for you, but they seem pretty certain he knew, and were pretty certain he was behind it, until recent events." Rhodey admitted.


    Tony admitted that rescuing him didn''t exactly scream villainous intent, no matter his feelings on Hammer being a weak, two-bit copy of himself. "What''s their evidence?" He asked.


    "... Hammer literally took over the business world immediately after you disappeared, starting with working Arc reactors, clean energy for the world and energy weapons for the military and police services, plus the Panacea announcement on top of it." Rhodey said, shaking his head, "It hasn''t stopped there, the construction industry, insurance industry, tech and communication, he''s everywhere."


    "Rhodey, if you''re about to tell me the whole world is using Hammer phones after I''ve been gone two months, I''m going to jump out of this plane." Tony said flatly.


    That is beyond ridiculous. Two months! I''ve been gone for two months! How did he do all this¡­?


    Like a strike of lightning, it hit all at once, the weird moves for some two odd years that Jarvis was keeping an eye on for me¡­ He was preparing!


    Rhodey scratched his chin, "Alright, Tones, I won''t tell you." He said not looking at him.


    "...Rhodey, show me your phone." Tony demanded. I refuse to believe this.


    "Tony¡­ We have more things to talk about." Rhodey deflected, a bead of sweat on his forehead.


    "Phone. Now." Tony demanded, making a grabby motion with one hand.


    "I don''t have it on me right now." Rhodey lied.


    Tony''s eyes narrowed, even as Rhodey''s widened, "Tones!" He cried out, as Tony jumped across the narrow divide between them, trying to get into his friends pockets.


    "Just give me the phone, you, you, Hammerite!" Tony exclaimed, having quickly come to the realization that two months of subsiding on gruel - did not a wrestler make. Not compared to the military best friend he was attempting to wrestle into submission.


    "Children¡­" Yinsen coughed, fiddling with his glasses, as both of them froze, having once again forgotten they weren''t completely alone.


    Tony got off his friend, sitting back down, clearing his throat, "Ah, well, this isn''t over, but it can wait, you were saying?" He said, used to just completely shooting past any embarrassing moments - that was literally the story of his life.


    Rhodey smoothed out his suit, giving Tony an exasperated look, "Look, I know this is all hard to take, but you can see why it''s a bit suspicious, almost like he waited for you to be out of the game to bring all this to bear, he must have had it ready before two months ago."


    Tony snorted, waving a hand dismissively, "That''s exactly what he did, I was keeping an eye on him, and he''s been buying up land and factories, server farms and office buildings, all over the world, practically bankrupting himself over the last two years." His lips thinned as he thought over the timeline, and chastised himself for refusing to take Hammer seriously, he''d shot himself in the foot there. "He was making everything ready for his big reveal, he knew." He forced out through gritted teeth.


    It''s the only thing that makes sense, if he cracked the Arc reactor somehow, and this miracle cure of his¡­ There''s no way he wasn''t sitting on them for a while.


    Tony knew energy weapons were possible, hell, he''d drawn blueprints of some, they just hadn''t been really viable due to the power requirements, something a functioning high power arc reactor might be able to fix. Which neatly proved a timeline, because without a working Arc reactor, how would Hammer have working energy weapons ready to sell? One had to come before the other.


    So the sneaky bastard had been sitting on it this entire time, waiting for Tony to disappear, so he could introduce it without Tony able to immediately suss out how he did it and compete and eclipse him.


    "He''s not responsible for my abduction." Tony said to himself, drawing Rhodey''s attention.


    "You sure? I mean it''s weird he saved you himself, it would have been better for him if you died." Rhodey said, uncomfortably, "It''s why I have a hard time believing he''s behind it all."


    There really wasn''t a good way to say - because he would have just killed you.


    Tony nodded slowly, "If he was responsible, he wouldn''t have been preparing for two years for this exact thing, he could have kicked it off whenever he was ready, and he must have had arc reactor tech ready at least long before two months ago." He felt his conclusion was right. Based on the knowledge he had currently, he''d know better once he was home with Jarvis, "He''s not responsible, but somehow he knew."


    Rhodey sighed, "Well, Pepper and Happy will be, well, happy, that I''m wrong." He said self-deprecatingly.


    Tony frowned minutely, "Why were they so sure anyway? Pepper usually defended the loser whenever I went too hard at him."


    He rolled his eyes at that, Pepper always defended the lost causes. It was endearing in a way, but wasted on Hammer. He wasn''t misunderstood, he was a smug asshole.


    "Right after you went missing, a team of professionals broke into the mansion and knocked out Pepper and Jarvis both. Once Jarvis rebooted, he found that his server farms had been knocked over as well, and a copy of him had been made. There were some indications it could have been SHIELD, but that might just be a red herring, Jarvis is almost positive it was Hammer behind the attack." Rhodey explained, giving Tony a sympathetic look, "Don''t worry, they''re both okay." He assured him.


    There was only silence for a moment.


    "He did WHAT¡­!?"


    <hr>


    LAX, Los Angeles.


    Tony couldn''t help but let out a sigh of relief as he stepped out of the plane, tasting real Californian air again, but most of all, spotting Pepper and Happy at the bottom of the stairwell, on the runway, which eased his heart a bit.


    Especially after what Rhodey had told him.


    Somehow they''d managed to keep the media away, because he couldn''t spot a single camera, something which allowed him to let loose a truly honest smile as he walked up to his employees/friends.


    "I''m back." He said, spreading his arms out, "One hundred percent authentic Tony Stark." His mind turned to the arc reactor thrumming in his chest, "More or less." He added, his smile lessening somewhat.


    "Mister Stark." Pepper said, losing the rest of the words, her eyes a little misty.


    Tony smirked, "Tears for your long lost boss?"


    Pepper shook her head, an amused smile playing at her lips, "I would just hate having to go work for Justin Hammer."


    Tony stumbled slightly, stabbing a finger at her, "Hey! You can do better, Miss Potts, don''t settle." He ordered, inwardly shuddering at the idea of Pepper working for Hammer of all people.


    "Happy, I should fire you for not greeting me with a cheeseburger." Tony said as a greeting to his old friend and bodyguard. Rhodey walking up behind him just as Happy replied, laughter in his voice.


    "Got a whole bag of them in the car with your name on it, boss!"


    "You''re re-hired and you get a raise." Tony told him seriously, ducking into the car, soon followed by Pepper, as Rhodey walked around to take the front passenger seat.


    "Pep, I need you to make sure our people take care of someone, a Doctor Yinsen, he''s still going to be stuck at the airport for a few, dealing with customs and immigration, send our lawyers to make it all go smoothly, okay, and then get him to my place." Tony ordered, as he got comfortable, immediately finding the bag full of greasy cheesy goodness and opening it up.


    Pepper tapped away at her phone, watching him with a worried frown, "Should you really be eating that, isn''t it a bit much." She fretted, before switching gears, the end of his order registering properly, "Your house? Are you sure?"


    Tony knew why she asked, the amount of people that actually were allowed inside his home, not counting one night stands, were frighteningly small, but Yinsen had earned that right. "He''s the only reason I''m alive." He said seriously, before taking a huge bite of a double cheeseburger, and practically melting into the seat.


    Nothing beats some American grease for the ticker! He thought, as he suppressed a moan of delight. He didn''t care if it was likely going to backfire later, it was worth it.


    Pepper bit her lip, giving him a soft teary eyed look, before she returned to her phone, and Tony knew without a doubt that Yinsen would not be held up at customs for long.


    In a battle between a government agency and Pepper Potts? It wasn''t even a fair fight.


    He was glad she had no political ambitions, she''d be a terrifying president.


    "Obie couldn''t make it?" He asked in-between bites, savoring the taste after two plus months of gruel and other more nasty things to eat.


    The car swerved slightly all of a sudden, as Happy cursed, glaring at Rhodey, Pepper falling into Tony, extracting herself with a quick apology. Thankfully, Tony had raised the bag of cheeseburgers over his head, so no harm was done.


    "What the hell? You didn''t tell him?" Happy yelled at Rhodey, having corrected his driving from his momentary distraction.


    Tony could see Rhodey rub his face in the front mirror, "There was a little bit too much to explain on the flight over, I figured it could wait until he got home." His platypus defended himself.


    Tony raised an eyebrow, munching on his first cheeseburger still, taking his time to properly enjoy it. "What''s going on? It can''t be any worse than Hammer going Megacorp on everyone and curing everything, can it?"


    I still can''t believe that shit even happened. Two months! I was gone for two months!


    That''s almost planet of the apes level shit¡­


    Glances were exchanged between everyone else in the car, and Tony''s heart sank, as he lowered his cheeseburger. "What is it?" He asked flatly.


    Obie didn''t¡­ Die, did he?


    "Okay¡­ So a few days ago. Tony Stark held a press conference, declaring that he was giving away Stark Industries to Obadiah Stane and it was going to be rebranded into Stane Industries." Pepper began explaining in a tremulous voice, and Tony raised a hand to stop her immediately, confused. Because what!?


    "Start making sense, I''m Tony Stark, and I sure as hell wasn''t holding any pressers in a cave!" He bit out, feeling faint again. Stane industries¡­. Obie?


    Pepper hesitated, looking to the front of the car, where the two men resolutely looked straight forward, abandoning her. Tony could tell by the slight twitch in her cheek, that the two of them would pay for that at a later time. Soon enough, Pepper composed herself and began again.


    Not that any of it really solved his confusion.


    "All of us were locked out of whatever was going on, with no access to what we know now was a fake you, nor any access to Obadiah." Pepper wrung her hands as she continued, looking stressed, "I think Jarvis will be able to give you details better than us, but it all culminated in an operation with SHIELD and Justin Hammer, from which we found out that a doppelganger had played you, and¡­ Stane for at least that meeting - the company transfer was immediately canceled by the courts."


    Hammer again! "Why the hell was Justin Hammer involved in saving my company!?" Tony asked, just begging someone, anyone to make any sense!


    And for the love of god, could any story, any, begin with something other than the words, and then Justin Hammer¡­


    "He has an in with SHIELD, or at least something where they can''t just tell him to buzz off, it was pretty clear when they came to fix things." Happy provided grouchily, adding, "Hammer also offered Pepper a job as a CEO, and eyed her up like she was a fresh catch at the fish market, you need to watch out for that guy, boss!"


    Tony''s hackles instantly rose, "He tried to recruit you?" He asked Pepper, his dislike of Hammer shooting into the stratosphere, "Wait, he was hitting on you!?" He growled out, squashing the bag of cheeseburgers in his grip.


    Pepper shot Happy a warning look, pushing some of her hair behind her ears as she turned to Tony, "Nothing I haven''t had to deal with before, and I obviously turned down his offer. As for his motivation, he seemed to want to stop Obadiah from taking your company."


    Tony really didn''t like that he apparently owed Hammer even more, but there were also so many things wrong with everything that happened that he didn''t even know where to begin. "Obie was impersonated too, right? So he''s in the clear?"


    Rhodey scoffed, but didn''t add anything. In fact he''d been suspiciously quiet during all of this business about Hammer. Tony stared at the front seat with a frown on his face, he really didn''t like how Rhodey and Hammer had some sort of connection right now.


    No one said anything, so Tony pressed on, "What happened to Obie?" He insisted. His godfather wouldn''t betray him, so this doppelganger business was obviously behind the issues.


    "He''s under arrest right now, while they investigate his claim that he was impersonated." Happy said unhappily. "Boss, we can''t be sure he was, he showed up at the press conference when the doppel SHIELD told us about was there as you."


    Tony shook his head, a tiny kernel of doubt in his mind, but it made him feel so guilty even thinking of it, that he crushed it ruthlessly, "Obie would never betray me like that, and if there was someone able to look exactly like me, they could do it to Obie too."


    "It could be just Justin Hammer behind it all." Pepper offered suddenly.


    "Oh, come on, he saved Tony, he saved his company and exposed the doppelganger." Rhodey protested.


    Pepper narrowed her eyes, "Jarvis is almost certain that Hammer was behind the attack on the Malibu Mansion." She pointed out.


    Rhodey sagged in the seat slightly, "Maybe." He said reluctantly, "It still doesn''t change the fact that he''s done more good than bad. If." He stressed, "It was even him, and not just some of his people trying to impress him and acting on their own."


    Tony just wanted the world to make some goddamn sense. He''d been kidnapped into a cave in Afghanistan not the goddamn twilight zone. Doppelgangers, spy agencies, Justin Hammer, it all just was too much bullshit. "Stop!" He told everyone sharply, "No one mentions Hammer or anything about him for the entire trip home, alright?"


    Everyone fell silent, watching Tony in a manner which brought his frustration levels even higher. I''m not damaged goods, you don''t need to stare at me like I''m going to explode or fall apart!


    He munched on his half finished cheeseburger as he sullenly glared out the window. Obie was in fucking jail, apparently, his business was almost stolen from under him, Congress was blown up, world war 3 almost happened, this is the shittiest rescue story of all time, he thought.


    His eye twitched as a billboard with Justin Hammer''s face on it appeared at the side of the road, selling phone plans and H-phones.


    It didn''t get better, as just down the road was another billboard, this time proselytizing the benefits of getting Hammer insurance services to gain access to cheaper treatments of Panacea in case of injury.


    He tossed the bag of cheeseburgers to the floor in frustration as they drove by several more billboards, and an honest to god full sized wall mural of Hammer in a white pristine outfit, holding out a glowing vial in one hand.


    "I''m going to be sick¡­" He muttered, and it had nothing to do with the greasy cheeseburger.


    <hr>


    Malibu, California


    He was eventually filled in on much of the rest of the information on the - almost takeover - for the rest of the trip, once he got over his frustrations and interacted with his people again, not apologizing, but lowering his antagonistic attitude. They''d lived through this, he had just gotten it all dumped on him at once, he could handle it.


    He got out of the car, his eyes only for the house, his house. His home. Jarvis. The bots. For a time he''d thought he''d never see any of them again. Wondered how they''d do without him, having faith in Jarvis, but worried about how alone they''d be.


    "Mister Stark, I''m agent Cou-" An agent of some kind stepped up from where they''d been waiting outside his home in a black pedo wagon. Tony walked right past him, giving absolutely no care for any of the alphabet agencies.


    He couldn''t help but grin as the door swung open on its own as he neared it, hurrying his steps as he burst into the house, looking around, instantly able to spot changes from the repair work from the attack, but not caring about any of it, "Jarvis¡­" He breathed out.


    "Sir¡­ Welcome home."


    Tony smiled, feeling a lot of the stress that had accumulated, slipping off for the moment, just closing his eyes and basking in it.


    He was home.


    "I''m home." He said softly, knowing Jarvis would pick up on it. Leaving a lot unsaid, but basking in the feeling.


    ¡­


    Hours later, he was in his workshop, his bots never more than five feet away as they kept an eye on him, worried he''d disappear if they moved too far away.


    He couldn''t exactly blame them.


    "Jarvis, we have a lot to go through, lots of information to parse, but first¡­ There''s some things I have to take care of." Tony muttered, pushing himself closer to his computer system, his swivel chair almost not making it due to Butterfingers getting in the way, "I''m fine you clutz, get out of the way." He said, rolling his eyes.


    "I assume item number one is not going to be your health, sir?" His AI drawled sarcastically.


    Tony smirked, shaking his head, Jarvis had joined Pepper in the who can push harder for medical help - game. So far Pepper was still in the lead by a mile though.


    "I''ve got a project here, for a suit, I want it off SI servers, let''s keep it to just you and I, buddy." He said, distractedly, already drawing up plans in his mind.


    "Your own version of Hammer''s suits, sir?" Jarvis asked, seeing what he was doing in real time and analyzing its conclusion.


    Tony twitched irritably, lifting a finger to point at one of the cameras dotting his workshop, "It is not a copy." He said sternly, "Jarvis, note it down, this project is not my version, or a copy. It''s 100 percent mine, okay, mine, buddy."


    Jarvis made a note with those exact words pop up on his computer''s interface, putting a pin in it so it would be prominently displayed.


    "Smartass." Tony muttered, lips twitching.


    "I would be remiss in not pointing out that the public might see things differently, sir. Considering you are using the same arc reactor technology, and the same general principles of the Hammer armors, particularly the one known as Whiplash." Jarvis cautioned him.


    Tony waved it away, "They''ll see which one is better." He said confidently. Not wanting to get into the perception of things. Being called a version of Hammer''s armored team made him want to crush something.


    And he would look into just how exactly Hammer had managed it all¡­ Later.


    "If you say so sir." Jarvis intoned dryly, "What else sir?"


    Tony got an intense look in his eyes, "We''re going to be working all night here, buddy, start a file on SI research and developments servers, bring up everything we have on armored vehicles, body armor, search and rescue drones, radar systems, anything that can''t be used as a weapon but is used by the military."


    Several files popped up immediately, Jarvis working as diligently as always. "May I ask what your intent is, sir?"


    Tony cracked his knuckles, "The world won''t let me get rid of my weapons right now, I can see that, it would be too difficult. So¡­ I''ll replace those military contracts with defensive tech, the best of the best, so that when my contracts run out, I can give them this instead."


    "Are we leaving the weapons industry then, sir?" Jarvis asked, sounding gentle.


    Tony saw the flash of fire, the blood on the window, heard the explosions surrounding him, he pushed it away, a bad taste in his mouth, answering Jarvis, "I saw my weapons used to murder my people and almost myself, Jarvis. It ends. It¡­ Ends."


    <hr>


    2 days later, Malibu.


    "Obie! They let you out!" Tony said with a grin, stepping forward to hug his godfather.


    He had looked, at the insistence of his inner circle, and neither he nor Jarvis could find any evidence Obadiah had done anything wrong.


    To Tony''s great relief.


    Obadiah Stane laughed, pulling Tony in, "They always were going to, and by god am I glad to see you safe, my boy."


    He pushed Tony away slightly, holding him by the shoulders, looking him over critically, "You''re a bit thin, good thing I brought pizza."


    "But did you bring anything for you?" Tony quipped, mouth watering as he realized he hadn''t eaten for the past 30 hours or so, he''d been too busy working.


    "Typical, you''ve been working already I take it?"


    Tony shrugged, "A bit, got to take it to Hammer for showing me up."


    Obie grinned, a glint of something in his eyes, "That''s good¡­ Knew I could count on you, Tony."


    He didn''t stay long, having just come to show he was free and alive, and to deliver pizza.


    Tony ate, and then returned to work, feeling a little bit lighter, knowing his godfather had his back and could take care of the company while the tinkered.


    It was good to have people to rely on.


    <hr>


    Los Angeles, Wildlife Preservation Gala, a week later.


    Tony normally hated these things and tried to avoid them as much as possible - no matter how much Obie insisted he needed to be seen rubbing elbows to assure the public that he was the charitable sort.


    Like anyone here gives a crap about charity, I probably give more than all of them combined¡­ And for better things than wildlife preservation.


    He wasn''t here to rub elbows, if anything he was fighting off the urge to run out of the building, wanting to avoid all the fake well wishers and vultures that would attempt to descend on him. But Jarvis had clocked that Hammer would be here tonight, and that gave Tony an opportunity to get his own measure of the confusing man.


    If he was behind the attack on Jarvis and Pepper¡­ There would be consequences. That said¡­ At the same time, he''d also saved his life. Even if he would have totally managed to escape on his own given a little more time.


    Tony, unlike his normal behavior, slunk around the corners of the room, avoiding the limelight as much as he could, not having a taste for it tonight. As he walked around, keeping an eye out, his mind turned to more pleasant things.


    Hammer might have a headstart on him, but he was hardly going to lay down and take it.


    So he couldn''t divest the company from weapons manufacturing. Yet. He''d have to ensure they became profitable enough that he''d be able to in the future. That his offerings would be enough that he could weather the storm with the military''s support.


    He''d already spent an afternoon lazily drawing up some products that would compete with Hammer. His lips twitched into a pleased vicious grin, or blow him out of the water¡­


    He might not have a suit ready yet, but he''d taken one look at the exoskeleton suits Hammer was selling to the military and logistics departments of every major company, and drawn up something more effective, attractive and capable. It might cost a little bit more, but quality would eventually beat out Hammer''s cheaper toys. People still counted on Stark industries for the real quality.


    It would take a little bit of time to really switch production around into matching Hammer in tech for the communication and tech industry. Tony had barely had to work at it to create some cool gadgets, home security systems, dumbed down AI capable of handling all of people''s home electronics on voice command, cleaning robots and the like. The piddly stuff. Easy.


    Could have done it in his sleep, really.


    Once he got done with this gala and sussing out Hammer, he''d go home and spend some time on the suit, and whip out a better phone and tablet to boot. Genius as he was, he begrudgingly acknowledged that Hammer had an almost insurmountable lead in the communications sector, due to owning everything from the hardware, to the software, to the phone company itself.


    Stark phones would be better, and he was thinking of adding holographic interfaces to really wow people. Set them apart from cheap Hammer junk.


    But he knew the expense would make it hard to ever completely unseat Hammer in that sector, especially as Hammer could offer the entire trifecta from software developer, to hardware to telecom-provider. And he didn''t have the time and money to actually go ahead and build up from the ground up into the entire communication sector. Not without cutting out parts of everything else he was going to be doing.


    He''d build the better phones, tablets, watches (A good idea he wished he''d had before the jerk Hammer) and gadgets, and he''d take enough of a chunk of the market that Hammer could never rest easy, and it would bring enough money for him to eventually divest of weapons once the climate eased a little.


    His eyes narrowed in distaste as he thought about what he knew of Hammer''s plans, what could be divined through Jarvis and his own genius. The things that were publically available about his moves in Africa.


    Like hell he was going to let that man beat him to space! He could have the telecom industry, the insurance industry and other such boring industries - Tony would take space.


    It had taken him literal days to make something better in everything Hammer had done so far except Panacea, Power Armor and Arc reactor tech.


    Give me another few weeks, he thought, finally spying Hammer, hanging around on a second floor balcony alcove, hiding from the press of people down below, the coward. He started making his way towards the stairs, another few weeks, and I''ll match and then exceed you there as well¡­


    He was briefly waylaid as an absolutely drop dead gorgeous redhead stumbled into him, apologizing in a breathless voice, her hand on his chest tantalizingly, before she slipped away.


    Tony regretted having to let her go, but loved watching her walk away. She was an absolute beauty, but Hammer was a pain in the ass to pin down, and he needed to get this done now.


    His thoughts returned to the business, and his impending rivalry.


    Business wise, he would be fighting from a heavy disadvantage that would be hard to make up, but quality wise?


    He''d be beating Hammer on all cylinders soon enough.


    He''d be behind on quantity and diversification for a long while. But even if Hammer sold more, Tony would sell better.


    He casually navigated through the slightly lessened crowds on the second floor, nodding at people, but not allowing himself to get dragged into conversation, swiftly moving on whenever it looked like someone would attempt to waylay him.


    Although he spotted the redhead again briefly, having to remind himself he had no time for detours.


    Later, babe. He thought.


    He twitched in annoyance and slightly begrudging bemusement, as he finally made his way to where Hammer was, to find that he was sitting down at a table, waiting for him, a bottle of Tony''s favorite whiskey on the table, with two glasses set out.


    The prick had seen him coming then.


    Unusually, there were no bodyguards around, which Tony knew Hammer went nowhere without, after the failed assassination attempt by Wakanda.


    And that had been a kick in the nuts to read about¡­ He thought sourly, only marginally caring about the moronic assassination attempt by the hidden nation, as he wasn''t assholish enough to want a building of people to die - but his main annoyance lay with an entire nation of Vibranium, and that he, Tony, had none.


    Yet.


    The fact Justin Hammer obviously did have such access, just burned harder.


    "Justin. You''ve moved up in the world." Tony said clippedly, sitting down, but not touching the bottle. If he''s behind the kidnapping or in cahoots with the real culprit¡­ Can''t trust anything he gives me.


    Justin seemed irritated by something, as he leaned back in his chair, giving him an appraising look, "Anthony, you look well, considering." He waved vaguely towards his own chest area, making Tony stiffen up.


    "Yes, well when you''re a genius, even a cave can''t hold you back." Tony said, holding his tongue to keep from snarking out, not that you''d know about either of those¡­


    He was here both to begrudgingly thank the man, and to feel his pulse, figure out how he ticked. Because obviously, his previous assessment of the man had been incredibly wrong.


    "Before we go any further," He began, wanting to get it out of the way, "I want to¡­" He swallowed deeply, trying not to grimace, "Thank you. For looking out for my best friend, for continuing the search for me. Thank you." God, that was more uncomfortable than the time I woke up to find that both ''women'' I''d taken to my bed, weren''t technically women, Tony thought.


    To his annoyance, his heartfelt thanks only seemed to further annoy Hammer, who furrowed his brows, a finger lightly tapping at his glasses as he squinted at Tony.


    "Well¡­ You''re welcome, Anthony." He said seemingly off kilter, still giving Tony that odd uncomfortable look. "I wasn''t about to let former Colonel Rhodes continue digging through the desert on his own."


    Tony''s lips twitched, as he was forced to hold back a smile, remembering the mini rant his honey bear had gone on in regards to Hammer industries policy on how to address the former Colonel. In this matter, he completely agreed with Hammer''s actions.


    As long as it didn''t get to be too much¡­ Only he could annoy Rhodey on a consistent basis. And he wasn''t overly fond of his best friend defending the man at times¡­


    "I appreciate it, Justin." He said magnanimously, feeling a bit better about this whole thing with how uncomfortable Hammer looked, quickly catching on to the fact that the nicer he was, the more baffled his adversary appeared.


    Kill them with kindness, huh?


    "I missed quite a lot during my little vacation, Panacea, clean energy, telecom revolution, and so much more." Tony said idly, tapping a few fingers on the table to mimic Hammer, "You''ve done a great job, I couldn''t have done it better myself." Well¡­ A little lie never hurt anyone.


    Hammer''s eyebrow twitched, as his lips thinned almost imperceptibly, "What are you playing at, Stark!" He snapped out.


    Tony affected an innocent look, it probably didn''t completely work, as he couldn''t even remember the last time he qualified as innocent. "What''s wrong, Justin? Never learned how to take a compliment?"


    Hammer looked wary, and anxious - if all that fiddling with his glasses was any sign, muttering something under his breath, before he spoke up snidely. "Considering your doppelganger, a Tony Stark going around complimenting people is a bad sign¡­"


    Tony had to give him the point on that one, even as he smirked fabulously at his wary acquaintance, "Just imagine, two Tony Starks¡­" He said jokingly, waggling his eyebrows tellingly, "The female population of the world have no idea what they''ve missed out on."


    "Quite." Hammer said shortly, eyes flashing with annoyance.


    "Would it make you feel better if I called you Justine?" Tony said, enjoying himself - who had any idea that being nice to Hammer would piss the other man off like this? So many opportunities missed!


    "Don''t be ridiculous, Anthony!" Hammer snapped, slamming a fist down on the table, drawing eyes from all those around them.


    Tony just grinned, leaning back further in his chair, almost lounging in it, feeling at ease for the first time in a long while. This, this he could do all day. "I''m not being ridiculous, Justin, in fact, if anything I''m being downright decent." He put his chin in his hand, affecting a concerned look, "And how does that make you feel?"


    Good thing he hadn''t brought Pepper along, she would have pulled him back ages ago. As it was, he got to sit and enjoy as Hammer ground his teeth so hard it was audible, while attempting to keep a respectful mien - due to all the randoms that were totally not watching for every little tidbit of gossip they might be able to grasp.


    "Say what you came to say, and stop playing games with me, Stark¡­" Hammer bit out, and to Tony''s surprise, one of his bodyguards, the black femme fatale, arrived from nowhere and began politely, but unerringly, usher their audience away. He hadn''t even seen a message being sent, and he knew she hadn''t been up here.


    Tony narrowed his eyes on Hammer''s glasses, paying full attention for the first time tonight, noting the thicker than normal frames, hiding wires? A transmitter? High quality lenses, more like screens¡­ Oh, that''s clever. "You haven''t been selling those, why not?" He asked, nodding towards Hammer''s face.


    Everything he''d read up on the last few months of the actions of the man in front of him, showed someone willing to sell their mother for spare change - except he''d ensure he walked away with a million dollars, having talked some rube into believing his mother was America''s next top model instead. So why not the glasses?


    Hammer gave him a dirty look, apparently pondering over whether to answer for a moment - or just to give his bodyguard more time to shove away the last protesting blue bloods.


    "The world isn''t ready for every Joe blow having facial recognition and similar tech at their fingertips, or eyelashes as it were - everywhere they go." Hammer said, seemingly reluctant to share even that, "I intend to make Earth break out of its cocoon and erupt as a beautiful butterfly, wielding all the weapons, but people aren''t ready for all of it right away."


    Tony scoffed lightly, "Beautiful analogy, almost brought me to tears." He mocked, a sly smirk on his face, "But you introduced energy weapons, power armor, clean energy, and Panacea. So fancier glasses are an odd line to stop at." Damn, I still feel pissed off everytime I list all the bullshit he''s pulled off, he thought irritably, not letting it show on his face. "Also, introducing better weapons is just going to add to the destruction that''s already happening globally, it''s not the right way to push forward."


    Hammer raised a disbelieving eyebrow, "Is the former premier weapons manufacturer of the world telling me that weapons are bad? Did you lose your nerve in Afghanistan, Anthony?"


    Tony internally cursed, he hadn''t meant to even mention anything about weapons, Hammer''s comment had just twigged a nerve on the issue he was still struggling with. He also couldn''t help but notice Hammer didn''t seem very surprised.


    Hammer leaned in over the table, an arrogant look to his face, "Did Stark industries stop weapons development and sales? I believe I would have heard of something like that¡­ Well, Anthony?"


    Okay, now you''re just starting to piss me off, Justine! He thought uncharitably. Of course Hammer would strike the minute he saw an opening, but Tony shouldn''t have given him that in, in the first place. Just keep playing nice, he hates it.


    "You''re right of course, I shouldn''t have brought it up, my apologies, Justin." Tony said, having to work hard to keep from grinning as Hammer literally reared back in aggravation as Tony apologized again, instead of feeding the man''s wish for a fight.


    Can''t exactly blame him for weapons sales while I''m forced to keep doing the same¡­ He thought glumly, letting none of it show. Right, I''ve thanked him, and this game is losing its shine, time to end this.


    He stood up, offering Hammer a jaunty little wave as he began walking off, without as much as a by your leave, adding over his shoulder, "I like the glasses, Stark industries will have a dumbed down consumer version out next week."


    Hammer didn''t answer him, and Tony could feel his glare on his back as he walked away.


    They were still business rivals at the end of the day, and Hammer might be somewhat right about facial recognition being a bit much for everyday masses - but there was no reason to sell fully tricked out glasses in the first place. Tony knew consumers.


    And they were to a man, too dumb to handle anything that complicated.


    He''d whip something easy up in an afternoon and send it to his research and development team to stress test and then put it into production.


    He still wasn''t one hundred percent sure if Hammer had attacked his home or not, if he''d been behind violating Jarvis¡­


    He''d give the man some leeway for the moment, for all that he''d done to help Tony, to help the world. He wasn''t a complete asshole.


    But if he found enough proof¡­


    Well¡­ People that messed with Tony Stark always ended up regretting it.


    As he entered the passenger seat of his new Ferrari, a purchase he''d made on a whim that morning, he mulled over Hammer''s attitude. He hadn''t seen the man in awhile, but he''d seemed unusually irritated by his presence, lending some credence to Hammer having a hand in messing with his stuff.


    He was still sure Hammer had known somehow about his kidnapping, something he would one day find an answer for. But right now, Pepper had been right, the man was untouchable.


    Happy pulled out into the street, having refused to allow Tony to drive himself to and from the gala.


    Tony placed a call to Jarvis, his mind whirling with ideas.


    "Sir?"


    "Hey Jarvis buddy, how soon do you think we can whip up a phone tripped up to the nines and so full of awesomeness that it will make Hammer''s look like a children''s toy?" He queried, playing with the phone in his hands, a frankly inferior product now.


    Jarvis'' dry voice came out of the speaker only seconds later, "Knowing you Sir, no matter what date I give, you shall simply say tomorrow."


    Tony thought about it, a grin spreading across his face, "Tomorrow it is then." He agreed.


    Hammer might be personally untouchable right now, but his business was not.


    <hr>


    Justin had watched Stark leave, seething in anger at how that encounter had gone.


    This just wasn''t how it was done. Stark was his nemesis, his rival. The one measuring stick Justin had, to prove to himself and everyone else that he was better!


    He couldn''t just¡­


    He almost spluttered in rage,


    He couldn''t just be nice now!


    That was not how this worked!


    Justin wanted his Tony Stark back, so he could properly rub his face in his inherent superiority!


    He twitched as he got a message flashing on his glasses. Picking his phone up and calling Sunil.


    "We need a customer friendly version of my glasses produced yesterday, before Tony fucking Stark does it!"


    Fucking Stark¡­ Literally telling him he was going to make them, that''s just not how it''s done!


    His people had found no sign the Mandarin was involved in Afghanistan, so he had jumped the gun on the rescue it seemed, to his own detriment.


    Should have just left him there another month¡­


    <hr>

 Migraines and Women - Possible Correlation?

    <hr>


    New York, Hammer Industries Blacksite.


    "DNA extraction complete!" Cho exclaimed happily, giving him a cheeky grin.


    Justin zipped up his fly, shaking his head, "I''m fairly certain that''s not the scientific way to successfully extract a DNA sample." He pointed out, wryly.


    Cho shook her head, striding over to a sample fridge, capping the vial full of¡­ Science. And then placing it in the fridge. "Who''s the scientist here?" She quipped, looking back over her shoulder with a coy little smile playing at her lips, "I say it''s a fully common sense extraction method."


    Justin wasn''t going to argue too hard, he''d been expecting a blood draw or a cheek swab, and received something¡­ Much different. "Are you sure you don''t need a more conventional sample?" He asked, to make sure.


    He didn''t want to have to come back, he could only take Cho in small doses.


    Cho puffed her cheeks out, "You gave me plenty to work with, not to worry, and at least you''re less stressed now, right? You look dead on your feet." Her face took on a look of slight concern as she gave him a once over. "I could¡­." She started slowly, a glint of something else in her eyes.


    Justin held his hands up, "No thank you, I''m perfectly fine." He looked towards the cradle that dominated Cho''s lab, meandering towards it, hoping to derail any further ''Cho science'' by asking, "And you''re positive you can create Vibranium tissues and muscles?"


    Cho nodded, an excited smile on her face as she walked over, stroking the top of her cradle with one hand fondly. "My baby can handle anything, it won''t be a problem, the hard part will be incorporating your DNA in a way that doesn''t weaken the structure or destabilize it."


    "You''re certain you need my DNA for it to work?" Justin asked again, slightly nervous to give Cho free access to it.


    Cho shrugged, "Most of it." She said, her eyes wide and innocent, which he knew to be a dirty lie. "With Extremis, the Vibranium won''t bind to you without your DNA within it, Extremis would handle it as an invasion or disease otherwise."


    Justin nodded, feeling like he had to just trust that things would work out. The idea of adding Vibranium subdermal armor, or muscles and tissue to Extremis and the Super Soldier Serum had popped into his head when he''d basked at the cache of Vibranium they had from Klaue - so he''d immediately sought out Cho, remembering the cradle had built Vision in a future that would never happen.


    It better never fucking happen.


    "Well, I have that meeting with Doctor Hansen." Justin said awkwardly, Cho the one person he just wasn''t sure how to behave around.


    Except apparently for certain things, because he had no damn self control, he thought, annoyed at himself.


    Cho immediately ran around the cradle and hugged Justin, her hands slipping down to grab at his ass as she pushed the limits of the hug.


    "Okay, I''ll talk to you later, Helen." He said quickly, extracting himself and leaving the lab at a fast clip, trying to make it seem like he wasn''t running away.


    <hr>


    In the lab, Helen Cho clapped her hands together eagerly, an unholy glint in her eyes.


    "Yay!" She called out excitedly, staring intently at the sample she''d gotten.


    She could do so much with this!


    <hr>


    Having escaped Cho''s lab, he soon found himself at the new cell holding the Winter Soldier, Maya Hansen standing outside it, waiting for him.


    Justin peered through the reinforced glass, pleased to note that Bucky Barnes wasn''t quite as robotic as last time he''d been by.


    He was sitting comfortably in an armchair reading a well worn book, Lord of the Rings, if he wasn''t mistaken. Instead of a barren cell, he had a writing desk, a bookshelf filled with literature, and a radio.


    Quite a turn around, considering they hadn''t completed the Extremis and Super Soldier Serum amalgamation yet.


    Quite more than he''d expected, really.


    "I disagreed with moving him to a more comfortable location, with less restrictions, but I stand corrected, Doctor Hansen." He acknowledged, sending her a fleeting and approving smile. Knowing the woman didn''t care at all for the niceties, he didn''t bother with effusive praise.


    She was fully married to science at this point.


    If only Cho could take some notes¡­ He thought.


    There were still many hurdles to cross of course in the conversion of the man, but the rapid progress seen already - was a good sign for his plans for the man.


    Maya Hansen finished what she was doing, slipping the tablet into the crook of her elbow, stepping closer to the glass, "I can''t take all the credit." She said matter of factly, pointing out several emitters in the ceiling, "With your hiring spree, we snapped up a young blowhard called Beck, who had some intriguing ideas that he lacked funding and technological know-how to implement."


    Of course if there was anything Hammer industries had a lot of now, it was money and technological know-how, so they were a perfect fit then.


    Justin glanced at the matte black emitters, they were simple looking small disks, implanted in the ceiling. Where have I heard the name Beck before¡­? He thought, before focusing on the now, "If you''re telling me you''ve built a holodeck, I am afraid I''m severely underpaying you." He told Doctor Hansen dryly.


    "Boys and Star Trek¡­" She muttered, shaking her head, her lips in a thin severe line, "This is not a so-called holodeck, Sir. It is a holographic illusion emitter."


    Sounds like a holodeck to me¡­ Justin thought, keeping it to himself, having a busy enough schedule without wasting time annoying one of his top scientists. "And this is how you''ve managed to come so far in the treatment?" He questioned, already thinking of the benefits of holographic tech for training his security division.


    Doctor Hansen shook her head, "This is fairly new, as the Vanko''s were too busy to assist, we''ve only been using it for several days at most." She frowned minutely, "It is coarse and unfinished and hardly lifelike as of yet, but the subject seems to respond well so far, so it is helping."


    Justin raised an incredulous eyebrow, "You''ve gone from the Terminator to that?" He gestured to the solemn man sitting quietly and reading, no sign of a military posture. Although there were clear signs of tension in his face and the set of his shoulders."All of it in a few days, and you call it coarse and unfinished?"


    Doctor Hansen gave him an exasperated look like he was particularly thick. Justin was not used to that, anymore. "Do you not read any of my reports, sir?" She asked sharply, "The therapy team we''ve spent a fortune on has slowly worked to get the subject at least comfortable, and got him to this stage - even if they''ve failed to ensure the subject is willing to cooperate with testing." She finished in a grumble, looking displeased.


    Justin didn''t exactly always have time to go through the minutiae of every email he received, but it was a lost cause to explain that to the good doctor, so he moved on, "Testing is no overly important yet, not without the solution anyway, we need the carrot, not the stick." He reminded her.


    "Testing is always important." She stressed, looking annoyed, before she let out a huff, gesturing towards the cell, "As you''ve requested, he''s available for a discussion, I trust you can handle the display, sir?" She asked somewhat tartly.


    Justin gave her a dry look, "I do have an engineering degree."


    She sniffed, "I never assume anything."


    Justin shook his head, a wry smile appearing on his face, it was almost refreshing to speak with someone who really didn''t give a damn what he''d achieved, as long as he kept the science funding coming.


    Hansen made to leave, uninterested in the human angle of the experiment, Justin stopped her with a raised hand, one last question on his mind, "How is it going with Doctor Cho?" He queried hesitantly.


    "Her expertise is doing wonders to the Super Soldier project, we''d probably be done already if she''d been here making herself useful from the start - instead of in a hole wasting her time." Doctor Hansen informed him archly, a small grimace on her face as she continued, "As for her mental state, you need to either unfuck her, or fuck her more, whichever method sets her straight again." She chided, definite disapproval in her voice. "She''d be twice the scientist if she didn''t spend so much time mooning over you."


    Justin sighed, and let her go, watching her walk off, already tapping away at her tablet again with a concentrated look on her face. He could only take so much of Doctor Hansen, despite the quaintness of her attitude.


    As for Cho, if she was doing good work, he''d just leave it be as it was. His focus turned instead onto the Winter Soldier, as he stepped closer to the controls, turning the opaque glass clear, even as the speakers were turned on.


    "Mister Barnes, I''m glad to see you in a better state, I''m Justin Hammer, the man responsible for your rescue." Justin said easily, a charming smile on his face, as Bucky stayed in his position, glancing his way from behind a curtain of hair - with a spark of intelligence visible despite the dullness of his eyes.


    "What do you want?" Bucky asked quietly, placing his book down carefully, after placing a bookmark between the pages.


    "To give you your life back, and to help save the world." Justin said simply.


    There was no need to get overly complicated in this first meeting, it would just overload him. Being who he was, with his likely high level of suspicion to any offer he could make, it would just lead him in a circle of trying to find the trap behind Justin''s words if he tried. So he wouldn''t, not yet.


    "Save the world, I''ve heard it before." Bucky said without interest, his expression flat.


    Justin nodded slowly, "No doubt you have, and I wouldn''t expect you to believe me quite yet, rest assured that even if you should refuse to assist at the end of your rehabilitation, I will let you go free with no strings attached."


    Well¡­ It''s not going to come to that, Justin thought, studying the broken man in front of him. Therapy was slowly working, but the trigger words would still be there. Their method might not even work, in which case the man would never be free.


    "Sure." Bucky said, not even bothering to show his disbelief, just blandly staring at Justin.


    Justin sighed, pulling a chair forward, settling down for the long haul, gods this will be annoying¡­ "The world is missing Steve Rogers¡­. The beating heart of America, it''s patriotic soul. He would have wanted someone to pick up his mantle¡­"


    Because fuck Steve Rogers¡­


    <hr>


    Hours later, New York.


    "What''s next, Elena?" Justin asked, massaging his forehead wearily, fruitlessly fighting a migraine. "And remind me next time we''re in New York to get a damn Helicopter, this traffic is ridiculous!"


    They were in one of his armored limousines, cruising through rush hour New York traffic¡­ Whatever he had next, they might arrive a day late at this rate.


    After the whole Stark thing, he''d flown Elena back from Cairo, the workload was too large to handle without his personal assistant. Of course it would mean Sunil''s workload would be larger, but quite frankly¡­


    Justin could live with that.


    "The meeting with New York''s mayor over the plans for the new head office, and then your three pm with Wilson Fisk." Elena answered promptly, handing him several pills and a bottle of water, staring at him sternly until he took the medication.


    Justin dry swallowed it, waving away the bottle of water, leaning his head back, the pills were useless anyway, something Elena should know, but he didn''t waste his time arguing the point. He was still annoyed that Extremis apparently allowed headaches and migraines, but not the medication to relieve it.


    "Cancel the meeting with the Mayor, he''s our bitch at this point anyway, he doesn''t need me there to hold his hand." Justin ordered quietly, feeling the shift in the leather seats as Elena moved away from him, to make the phone call without exacerbating his migraine.


    Another unintended consequence of his success had led to the plans for Hammer industries headquarters to go ahead, years ahead of schedule. Hence the meetings and correspondence with the Mayor and city council, as well as the Governor and a myriad of other officials who had no business being involved but still were.


    With outstretched hands awaiting a bribe.


    So business as usual.


    He couldn''t wait for the invasion and buy land cheap in the aftermath as he''d planned before all of this set off. Quite frankly, he''d been more successful in his efforts than even his wildest dreams could have foreseen, and he needed his new headquarters yesterday. He couldn''t wait four years, he needed to strike while the iron was hot.


    And of course reinforce the fuck out of the building, because alien invasion¡­


    He was keeping a close eye on Stark too, long distance cameras watching his Malibu Mansion like a hawk, his people in Afghanistan keeping an eye on Gulmira.


    He was waiting for the reveal of Iron Man, because it would give him some openings. Tony had been arrogant in mouthing off to him about his superiority, Justin had a much stronger grasp on the media than the playboy could even imagine.


    Once Tony stepped a foot out of line, Justin would bury him in bad press and busy work, chaining him to his board of directors, and slowing down his planned expansion.


    He grimaced as his migraine intensified, all mental, his doctors had insisted. Justin blamed Stark for giving him more work, even if he himself was partly to blame for getting him out early.


    He needed the damn man and his genius, but he was so damn annoying.


    Granted, the migraine could also be from his recently upgraded implants. After weeks of working on it, the implants in his skull meant to stop mental intrusions and control, had finally been successfully upgraded by Ivan.


    They no longer melted brains.


    A definite upgrade.


    With Extremis Justin had been able to handle that inconvenience, but now he didn''t need to, the implant viable for anyone. That, of course, had led to everyone in his circle being given time for the procedure to get one, except Eileen who''d taken a leave of absence to deal with the Mystique situation.


    The entirety of the management structure of Hammer Industries and his security division were on the waitlist to receive the same implants, upper management already halfway through the process.


    Emma Frost and the like would not be able to fuck with him anymore. Also suck it Xavier!


    Of course, Justin had taken it a step further, hooking his glasses into the implant, allowing him to send messages, craft emails and use the facial recognition software and everything else, with his mind - instead of having to train the software to react to certain eye movements.


    Elena now had a similar pair of glasses on her face, albeit in a slimmer more attractive look, really setting off the hot secretary kink of his.


    When she looked at him seriously with the glasses slightly down, just brrrr, Hammer like!


    Thanks to the fact the glasses were so useful, the joke was spreading around Hammer industries that he was infecting people around him, as several of the highest levels of management were sporting glasses now - due to the convenience of being able to answer emails with their mind.


    Stark blabbering about getting a set of glasses out for the public so soon, hah! Justin was already allocating factory space for the new product line, nowhere near as useful as his own, of course. But for the regular person, being able to use simple things like GPS, texts and emails through their glasses would be novel enough to sell, even if it took actually reading the manual to figure out how to use them properly and train the software to follow their specific eye movements.


    Surely at least part of the general public would be intelligent enough to figure it out¡­


    Stark was used to being the biggest dick on the block, Justin had fallen slightly into that during their meeting, knowing the man''s skills - but once he''d calmed down, he''d realized the man really couldn''t deliver what he''d promised. Not yet.


    That didn''t make the man any less annoying however.


    Already a video was trending online of Stark answering a question about the H-phones while leaving a board meeting, because of course reporters would play into the whole rivalry thing.


    "Hammer phones? I guess I can understand people buying inferior products when I wasn''t available to show them the real stuff, Stark industries is going to release a whole new line of electronics GUARANTEED to make Hammer''s look like toy phones making animal noises!"


    Justin had been worried for a bit, until common sense and logic had set in. Stark was miles away from being able to actually deliver on such a promise. He had the capabilities to create something superior, but not the capacity or supply chain to just sweep the market like that.


    All his factories were already producing other products, retooling and retraining wasn''t the job of days, no matter how effective his AI was. It just wasn''t possible to go from nothing to market in such a short time.


    And if he switched off one of his current factories he''d risk being unable to deliver his already existing product lines to the military. So the man needed new factory space, new staff.


    Good luck finding those easily, Justin was hiring so many people half of them didn''t even have jobs, he just shuffled them off to Africa to help until he had an actual position for them. And that was still with his absolutely stringent background checks, or he''d have millions of new hires just spending time making roads in Africa while waiting for their real positions to be created.


    At worst, Justin had a few months before he had to worry about Stark beginning to compete, and realistically, a year minimum. And he intended to ensure he was not in a worst case scenario. Stark and his genius was something he needed for the world, but it didn''t mean Hammer would allow himself to lose to the man.


    He already had plans in the work to limit the man''s options.


    While absolutely hammering Stark for overpromising, continuing the narrative of how untrustworthy he was through his media contacts. It helped that Tiberius Stone disliked Stark and was happily onboard for further tarnishing his reputation.


    Elena sat back down next to him, her phone call done, she gently tugged on him, and Justin let himself fall into her lap with a tired sigh. She must have been very quiet in her call, he hadn''t even noticed.


    Or he was that distracted.


    "Just rest, sir. I''ll take care of everything until your meeting." She said soothingly, running a hand through his hair, long nails raking against his scalp, settling some of his stress.


    Having been doing consistent 18 hour days for so long now, it didn''t take long for Justin to fall asleep to the soft humming and singing of his personal assistant.


    His last thoughts, why is she singing in Russian? It''s beautiful¡­


    Then sleep took him.


    <hr>


    New York, Fisk international.


    Slightly refreshed, Justin walked into Fisk international like he owned it, flanked by Domino and Elena.


    They were immediately met by an odious little man, who showed them to a private elevator, meant to take them to the top floor of Fisk tower.


    Thankfully, the weasel looking man didn''t join them for the trip. Hammer got serious Grima Wormtongue vibes from the guy.


    "What did I miss while I was dead to the world?" Justin asked, straightening out his cuffs, giving a quick polish to his cufflinks, knowing his people were smart enough not to reveal anything sensitive in someone else''s building.


    If Justin recorded sound and video in every one of his elevators, the damn Kingpin surely wasn''t so lax as to follow privacy rules.


    Elena sighed dramatically, "Tony Stark is in the news again, I''m afraid." With the way her lips were twitching he knew this would be good. Justin gestured for her to go on, already smirking in anticipation as the elevator climbed past the halfway point.


    "He''s been constantly locked in board meetings and the press keeps camping outside, waiting for a soundbite, and today, they managed to ask Stark about the arc reactor." Elena said, eyes glittering with malicious satisfaction.


    Justin took in a deep breath, savoring it, "Please tell me he was his usual belligerent self?"


    Domino chuckled, "If his previous statement went gold, this one went platinum, boss!"


    Slightly wrong terminology, but good to know, Justin thought, rubbing his hands together in gleeful anticipation. "How bad was it?"


    Elena smirked, looking inordinately pleased to be able to deliver good news, "He got annoyed at the consistent questions and said he could have cracked it anytime, reminding them of his genius, then dismissively said the world wasn''t ready before."


    Oh, Tony¡­ This isn''t the old world anymore¡­


    The elevator reached the top, just as Justin closed his eyes and just savored it. Tony Stark was still the man that would cockily tell Congress to suck it, it seemed. He didn''t realize he wasn''t the media darling anymore - it had been a mistake of his inner circle to not keep him back.


    Although he acknowledged how impossible that likely was. Pepper Potts was a miracle worker - but no one was that good.


    This wasn''t something that would hurt his bottom line, it wouldn''t harm his business, not really, not yet. But it would set the narrative in stone, without Justin needing to do anything.


    Tony Stark does not care about you.


    Justin couln''t out engineer Stark. But in logistics, media, planning and management, he was going to crush him.


    He could already feel his migraine completely dissipating, the tiny niggling pain that still existed after his nap abating, his earlier stress about Stark''s announcements lessened by his new gaffe.


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Really, the man was going to make this easy for Justin, if he didn''t wake up to the new reality and began acting like he needed to win people over. With Justin curing people from Alzheimer''s and every deadly disease around, Stark couldn''t afford to come off as the aloof genius unconcerned about the common man.


    Mostly because Justin would continue to hammer him on it, just following up his continuing press campaign from before. His PR team''s assertion that Tony Stark could have always done clean energy, but didn''t care to help the average joe, or the poorer countries, fit better than ever now - it was something which definitely paid off with this one careless comment from Tony.


    He stepped out of the elevator, into a perfect killbox, right before the Kingpin''s penthouse office. His glasses immediately identified the twelve guards and their armaments, plus the hidden weapons emplacement behind the mahogany wood panels.


    He eyed the security team, gesturing for Domino and Elena to join them, "Don''t steal all their hearts now, girls." He quipped, strutting through the door that was quickly opened for him by a butler. Justin''s glasses flashed, as facial recognition got a hit, as he glanced at the butler on his way through.


    A serial killer as a butler. The Kingpin did have a sense of humor, it appeared. Although he doubted the butler was ever around for the more legal meetings, he was fairly well known in New York after all¡­


    "Justin, welcome to the beating heart of my empire." The larger than life man said, clad in his usual white suit as he fixed himself a drink, "Drink?" He asked casually, holding the crystal decanter in one meaty hand.


    Justin strode forward, a polite smile on his face, hiding his distaste. "Wilson, it''s been too long, unfortunately I still have plenty of business to conduct afterwards, so no drink for me I''m afraid."


    Wilson Fisk made an agreeing noise, grabbing his drink and making his way over to the large windows overlooking New York, gesturing for Justin to join him.


    Justin held back a twitch at the temerity of this lowly criminal and stepped up to the window, hands behind his back as he coolly observed the New York skyline, already picturing his new headquarters rising far above this piddly little tower.


    "A shame about Osborn beating you to the punch, I would have expected the military to be begging for you to be their supplier." Fisk murmured lowly, thoughtfully, taking a sip of his whiskey.


    Justin met the dangerously intelligent eyes of the Kingpin of crime, quirking his lips, speaking up in an almost mocking drawl, "Norman can have his day in the sun, we both know he''ll mess it up dramatically, the man''s not well after all, and then I''ll swoop in as the savior, again."


    Fisk raised an eyebrow, face nonplussed, "Oh, not worried about the competition? I hear Frost industries are advancing power armor on their own too, France and Great Britain have already placed orders."


    Justin hadn''t heard that, which annoyed him, as he gave the Kingpin a searching look, what are you after with this conversation, Fisk? He wondered. The fact everyone was scrambling for inferior power armor annoyed him, because he didn''t want a profiligation of the armors yet. At least he''d still hold the advantage, as only his armors could actually use actual arc reactors. Not that anyone but him and Stark could miniaturize the things so far anyway.


    Of course Stark would be able to use them as well, but so far he hadn''t debuted yet.


    At least with the inferior works, they all depended on his batteries, so if any countries started misusing the armors against his interests¡­ Well he''d quash that easily enough.


    "Quality will win out in the end, there is no comparison to my armors." Justin said eventually, after a pregnant pause.


    Fisk nodded, sloshing around the liquid in his glass, staring out at New York, "It is indeed." He muttered, "And if someone were to inquire what it would cost to get one of these armors for their most loyal subordinate?" He enquired softly.


    Justin shrugged lightly, "I suppose it entirely depends on if I would find an endeavor like that worth it."


    It was unlikely he''d end up following through on that, but if the Kingpin could offer enough of an incentive¡­ One knockoff armor with low power wouldn''t be much of a threat to him, and would allow the Kingpin to continue to project his power across New York.


    At least until the city became Justin''s city, once his headquarters was up, and the invasion defeated. In Justin''s city, there would be no need for a Kingpin¡­


    Fisk smiled, greed shining through briefly in his eyes, before he controlled himself, "Indeed, well, let''s talk partnership then, you''ve come to me for a reason, Justin."


    Justin nodded, pleased with the greed in the other man, his want for armors would make this deal much easier to push through, without him ever having to follow up on continuing the partnership later. "You expressed an interest in Extremis in Bern. I have decided what I want in exchange." He said with an easygoing smile.


    Fisk gave him a measured look, likely recognizing he was in a limited bargaining position due to bringing up power armor before this discussion. "And what can Fisk industries do for you, Justin?" He asked mildly.


    "Tony Stark will be massively ramping up his company profile, I want you to take no contracts with Stark industries or its subsidiaries for one year, stopping any you have going currently." Justin said, a feeling not far off from an orgasm running through his body at the flex of his own business and reputational power.


    It was a heady feeling, controlling fates all over the country, sometimes the world, like this.


    It was no wonder supervillains went a bit kooky at times.


    Fisk mulled it over, eyeing Justin shrewdly, "You''re asking for something that will cost me a fortune." He rumbled, despite knowing his bargaining position was weak.


    Fisk international was a logistical company that although it did do work in shipping and international trade, it was mostly known for having a controlling interest in the transportation business in North America. If you saw a truck transporting something, odds where it belonged to Fisk, either directly or through one of his many logistics subsidiaries.


    Justin had done the calculations, if Fisk refused to deal with Stark, SI''s current business would see over a thirty percent drop in productivity until Stark found a way to replace the supply chain issues with other companies, companies that did not have the reach and support that Fisk industries had.


    As for any expansion? Good luck with that.


    No one knew quite how much Fisk really controlled as he hid behind several companies and subsidiaries through shell companies and tax havens, although Justin had come up with the number 70 percent give or take a few, by extrapolation and examining what he could find. The fact he controlled the teamster union as well, added to his complete dominance in the sector.


    Not that most people knew that second fact.


    This. This is why Stark would never beat him, because he didn''t have the cojones to deal like this.


    "One year of slightly lower income isn''t going to break you, Fisk." Justin said dismissively, adding a slight carrot to make the deal go down easier, the man looked like he liked to eat after all¡­ "My own company has the need for more trucks, so I''ll happily pick up some of the contracts to keep you steady."


    "It''s still not enough, you''re asking me to break contracts, it will impact my reputation, cost me millions in litigation." Fisk said coldly, appearing to be completely against the idea.


    Justin knew better.


    He scoffed, turning back to the view, speaking as if unconcerned for the reception of the words, "We both know your real reputation, Fisk, don''t act like this is that much of an impediment, like you can''t bribe or threaten judges to tie everything up or dismiss it outright¡­" Justin smirked slightly, glancing back at the Kingpin, "And we both know you can use your subsidiaries to take the brunt of the reputation loss, so no personal loss for yourself - your main company will be insulated from the consequences so don''t try and play the player, we both know you''ll agree to this."


    Fisk seethed and didn''t respond for a minute, the big man taking a steadying breath as his hands clenched. Justin knew no one talked to Fisk like this, no one that lived long anyway.


    Justin luxuriated in the feeling of watching the Kingpin have to just take it, because he wanted what Justin had to give.


    And because for once, the Kingpin wasn''t the biggest shark in the room, and he knew it.


    The big man finished his drink in one big gulp, turning to Justin, his body language calm once again, "You aren''t entirely wrong, but you''re still asking for me to put considerable expenses onto my companies, at the very least put the power armor on the table." He entreatied.


    Justin laughed, cold and amused, like hell, take what I''m giving and swallow it you fatass¡­ He stepped away from the window, "If regeneration and decades more of life isn''t good enough for you, perhaps you''ll find someone else to do business with you?" He said, moving to leave.


    He got ten feet before Fisk growled under his breath, "Wait."


    Justin turned, a questioning eyebrow raised, "Yes?"


    Fisk stepped away from the window, "No power armor, we''ll leave that open for the future, I am¡­ Open to your idea, but need something more to sweeten the deal."


    Justin scoffed, not open to giving away anything more to what was basically a simple monster, with some extra pocket change, "Is that so? I believe my offer is practically charity as it is, giving pseudo immortality for the price of less business for you for a year and a bit of tarnish on..." He searched for the words for a moment, a sardonic look on his face, "Your no doubt virgin-like reputation."


    "This is not how business is done, Justin." Fisk said warningly, his bass tone almost echoing around the office, giving a perception of strength.


    Justin had transcended normal business practices now. The likes of Shaw was a threat, so was Emma, so was Stark, and Osborn even in some small way, but Fisk? What was he going to do? Send Bullseye after him again?


    That worked out so well the first time¡­


    Like hell he would give anything extra for the man who''d tried to kill him, even if ineptly.


    He would use the Kingpin, and then one day in the future, he would end him. Because he was well aware that if it weren''t for the Kingpin wanting, needing, what Justin had on offer - he''d still be trying to kill him.


    Fisk was small minded, too wedded to the idea of New York, too stuck in his mobster ways to truly thrive internationally like Justin was. Justin brushed some imaginary dust off his cuffs, making to step away again, "I hold all the cards, I decide how business is done, Wilson." He said, walking away.


    As he''d thought¡­


    He didn''t get within five feet of the door before the Kingpin capitulated.


    Extremis and the potential for power armor above and beyond what the military would have, was too strong of a lure.


    Justin knew people.


    Another avenue where he''d beat Tony Stark.


    Where he''d already beaten him, in his humble opinion.


    <hr>


    New York, later that evening,


    "Hammer! Where''s revenge, huh?" Ivan shouted the second Justin walked into the room. "My revenge!"


    Considering the spread of vodka bottles, Ivan had been busy for a while. Justin grimaced as he stepped around the mess, somewhat glad to see that the elder Vanko wasn''t present.


    Trust Ivan Vanko to create a super Vodka to get around the fact Extremis made it impossible to get drunk¡­


    With Extremis, drinking alcohol was entirely for flavor now, and well¡­ Ivan was hardly chugging Vodka bottles on the regular because he liked the flavor, was he?


    "Ivan¡­ I believe I told you that revenge wouldn''t be something as simple as death¡­" Justin admonished his top scientist.


    Between Vanko and Cho¡­ Why couldn''t people be less complicated? Was it too much to ask for well adjusted worker bees?


    Ivan blinked heavily, trying to pour vodka into his mouth, his mouth moving, as he poured the bottle two feet to the left of his mouth, the liquid hitting the floor, soaking into the mess of take out containers.


    Jesus Christ, when they emailed me about the issue, I hadn''t expected this¡­


    "Stark is enemy, need to pay, you said." Vanko slurred, trying to point at him, but missing by a mile.


    "He''ll pay, he''s already being humiliated in the media, and we''re miles ahead of him, you''ll still get that Nobel prize, you, the creator of arc technology, not Stark." Justin pointed out, not sure how much of a point there was to it, Vanko was obviously absolutely shitfaced, and likely wouldn''t remember a word that was said.


    Ivan scrambled over the mess, the accumulation of filth gathered only over the two days he''d stayed here, waiting for Justin to come to New York and meet him - he exclaimed happily as he found a large needle, with a glowing liquid inside. Before Justin could do more than open his mouth to protest, Ivan inserted it into a vein.


    "You better not be on drugs, Ivan!" Justin blustered, not sure what to do.


    Ivan groaned, settling down onto the bed, his eyes clearing up, "Is quick fix to much drinking." He muttered, holding his head in his hands, greasy hair hanging down like a curtain, his tattoos very visible against pale skin.


    Justin pinched the bridge of his nose, "You invented super alcohol and immediate sobriety?" He questioned, before he had a thought, frowning at the now empty syringe. "Can you make it less glowy, and work for normal alcohol?" Seeing the potential for a new product.


    But not while it glowed like radioactive waste¡­ People might be slightly hesitant to inject that, even when shitfaced.


    Ivan groaned again, "Still get hangover." He complained, and Justin let it be, there wasn''t much point in instant sobriety if you couldn''t skip the hangover.


    Perhaps as a tool for soldiers or his security, in case they''d been drinking, as a way to get sober quickly. It was unlikely for it to be very useful as it was for the public market, yet.


    He''d have to see if he could get Maya and Helen to look at it, Improve it.


    But they wasn''t why he was here, so he stepped closer to Ivan, stepping over a pizza box that had been haphazardly thrown onto the floor. "So, Ivan, I''ve been told you''re displeased?" He asked softly, not wanting to make the hangover worse.


    Ivan glared at him from under his curtain of hair, "Da, why Tony Stark not suffer more?" He demanded.


    Justin frowned, "The man has shrapnel in his chest constantly moving to his heart, and an arc reactor shoved into his chest cavity to keep it from killing him, he must be in constant pain." He pointed out, hoping Ivan wasn''t going to be problematic about this.


    He still couldn''t have Tony die on him, not even for Ivan. And he really didn''t want to lose his golden goose.


    Ivan tilted his head, mulling that over, "Good start." He decided, still looking angry, the mullish look not leaving him, "Not enough, da? He not realize yet, how him and his father, ruin lives."


    "What do you want, Ivan? I''m not killing Tony Stark." Justin said firmly, arms crossed. "And frankly this behavior is beneath you, you''re the man that pioneered Arc technology, power armor, and a dozen other inventions - not to mention your assistance on the cradle and Extremis¡­ Tony Stark is an afterthought."


    Ivan slowly grinned, grunting out his approval of his accomplishments being listed. "Those are good, da, but still not the crying of Stark''s women, still not broken sad man paying for sins." He finished gutturally, a vicious sneer breaking out on his face, replacing the grin.


    Justin reiterated his question, "What do you want, Ivan?"


    Because he needed to solve this, his main man had been spending two days being utterly pathetic instead of doing his job. And his job literally revolutionized the world.


    Justin couldn''t afford to have Vanko switch off, the entirety of Earth depended on men like him.


    Ivan looked up suddenly, his bloodshot eyes deadly serious, "Get me meeting with Stark. I tell him myself."


    Fuck.


    "... Alright, I''ll see what I can do, but it might take a bit, buddy, okay? It''s not exactly easy to meet the man right now, especially with any request from me." Justin said, giving himself some time to figure this out.


    Damn his people for being actual people! Why did they have to have wants and needs that were so damn complicated. What was wrong with money?


    It used to be that people just wanted a boatload of money.


    His people though¡­ They wanted complicated shit.


    Ivan Vanko and Tony Stark in a room together¡­


    That''s only going to end well, he thought glumly.


    <hr>


    A week later, Andrews Joint Air force base,


    "See, I take you to nice restaurants, great little places with amazing food. And where do you take me when we both have the chance to hang out? An Air force hangar." Hope teased him, nudging him in the ribs as they walked into the hangar. "Are you absolutely sure you''re supposed to be a player?" Her grin was warm, and she didn''t seem to be actually upset, curious if anything, so Justin let the teasing flow over him.


    "I''m sure you''ll be suitably impressed in short order." He said with a mysterious smile, gesturing to the grouping of people that were standing further in.


    Within which there was a very recognizable person, with a very recognizable security detail around him.


    "Justin!" Hope hissed, looking flustered, "That''s the President of the United States of America!"


    Justin smiled proudly, walking forward with some swagger, patting Hope''s hand as held onto her arm, "It''s not a big deal, I asked him to be here and meet you is all." He said casually.


    Hope put a hand to her hair, hissing out of the side of her mouth, her voice slightly squeaky, "Justin! I can''t meet the President of the United States of America! I didn''t wash my hair today!"


    "Your hair smells amazing, and so do you." Justin assured her, feeling a little bit put out, the emphasis on the title, the slight panic, why did she never act like that for him?


    It was just Ellis, no one important.


    Hope''s cheeks tinged pink, as she grasped his hand, nails digging into his skin, "Justin, you can''t say something like that!" She almost wailed, "Not when I''m about to meet the President of the United States of America!"


    Even as she continued to panic slightly, she sported a small pleased smile though.


    "Stop saying it like that!" Justin chided her, wondering if his plan was about to backfire on him. She might be too shocked to listen properly.


    "Ellis." Justin said with a slight nod, as they got close to the man, his secret service protection just a few feet away.


    Hope immediately slapped his arm, turning to Ellis right after with a horrified look on her face, "I''m so sorry Mister President, he''s not house trained yet." She rushed out,


    Excuse me? Justin thought, deeply offended.


    President Ellis smiled affably, shaking Hope''s hand, "Not to worry, Miss Van Dyne, I''m well used to Justin by now." The way he said it, despite his smile, did not indicate that it was a pleasant connotation.


    This is not going quite as planned¡­ Justin thought, beginning to feel quite annoyed, sending Ellis a warning look.


    "And there is Colonel Rhodes." The President said with a pleased smile, "Welcome to our little mysterious get together, Colonel." He said, rubbing his hands together.


    Justin immediately grasped Hope''s hand again, now that the President had let it go. Hope staring curiously at former Colonel Rhodes.


    Rhodes walked up, escorted by a member of the secret service, looking wary at spotting Justin in the gathering, "It''s an honor, Mister President." He said strongly, before grimacing minutely, "I am no longer in the military however, so I can''t answer to Colonel."


    It looked physically painful, Justin observed, for the man to not only admit that, but to be forced to correct the commander in chief.


    "Well, that''s part of what we are here to correct." Ellis said, switching to a more serious mien. "I have an offer, for both you, Colonel Rhodes, and you, Miss Van Dyne, in regards to serving your country."


    Rhodes immediately straightened up even further, somehow, while Hope looked politely confused, but not quite willing to ask the President what he was smoking - to lump her in with an obvious career soldier.


    Justin had set this entire thing up, using the President to lend gravitas to the occasion and to convince the two of them of his desires. Of course Ellis would get what he wanted through it as well, just not as much as Justin would¡­


    "First of all, irregardless of what you may choose here today, your rank and career has been reinstated by request from a very important person to national interests." Ellis said dryly, everyone turning towards Justin, who waved at Rhodes, a coy grin on his face.


    "I assume you accept as much? Obviously your previous position as the liaison to Stark industries is yours if you desire it as well." Ellis offered, hands behind his back as he regarded Rhodes.


    Justin hadn''t added that second part that was the President adding his own spin, but considering Justin had access to all the juicy intel as part of the World Security Council, he knew that Stark had already managed to run off two new liaisons - this week. So in the end, it was a sensible option.


    Rhodes looked like he''d lost his voice for a moment, before he snapped a picture perfect salute, "Yes sir!" He said with conviction.


    "Good¡­ Boys, unveil Hammer''s gift, please." Ellis said, waving to his security detail, who immediately moved to the side of the hangar, where something was hidden by a large hanging tarp.


    The tarp was dropped, unveiling something that drew gasps from both Hope and Rhodes, and got the President''s eyes glittering with glee.


    "I give you the War Machine." Justin said grandly, stepping in and taking over. Not quite identical to what would have been, since Vanko engineered it, but the look was similar enough. "It will be on loan to the US Air Force under the stipulation that its pilot is Colonel James Rhodes, and some other small conditions¡­"


    Rhodes was looking at him like he was crazy, "Define conditions," He said quickly, eyes roaming across the suit of armor, before his eyes widened as he obviously came to a realization. "Shit, Tony is going to kill me!" He moaned out, before he realized the company he was in and immediately apologized, "I''m sorry, Mister President."


    Ellis scoffed, "Son, I''ve heard a lot worse than that before in the Senate, nothing to worry about."


    "As for the conditions." Justin piped in again, practically skipping forward, "The President can explain that, it''s where you come in as well, Hope, dear."


    Ellis nodded, as Justin came up to stand next to him, "The United States of America, has hired Hammer industries to provide private security through a superhero team to protect us from threats like Wakanda super soldiers, Magneto or worse dangers, that can not easily be deterred by conventional forces."


    "Like from a comic book?" Hope asked skeptically. "Superheroes, really?"


    The men all wisely decided not to clarify things with the woman, because some things were just sacred.


    "War Machine will be available to you on the condition that you''re available for this team in case of global or national threats." Justin said, a shit eating grin on his face as he peered smugly at Rhodes. "You do owe me a favor, Rhodes¡­"


    Of course he''d be used by the military for the most part, Justin could hardly trust him for most missions, but it was just delicious to ''steal'' Tony''s best friend for the real threats, which was why he had entreated Ellis to make the offer. Rhodes was a die hard patriot, he wouldn''t, couldn''t, say no to this.


    Rhodes seemed to be thinking hard, looking conflicted, so they left him alone for the moment.


    Justin and the President both turned towards Hope, both men rearing back slightly at the very cross look on her face, her arms crossed under her bust as she tapped a foot impatiently on the cement.


    It seemed she''d realized something, and whatever it was she was none too pleased about it.


    "And me? Is there a reason all this had been decided without even asking me if I wanted to be dragged into it?" Hope said coolly, her eyes flashing as she glared at Justin, "Apparently you know about¡­ That! Have you been spying on me? And you didn''t bother talking about it once!"


    Justin started to feel like he might have made some slight miscalculations. "Ah, I wanted it to be a surprise¡­?" He said, stepping back slightly, using the President of the United States as a shield.


    The secret service did not look impressed with him.


    Hope snorted, shaking her head, before looking at Ellis, "I''m sorry, Mister President, I assume my misguided friend has deigned to share things about me?"


    Ellis hesitated for a moment, before a practiced politician''s smile slid into his face, "About you wielding the Wasp suit? He did inform me, quite recently in fact. He argued quite strenuously that you were perfect for this hero team."


    Justin nodded quickly, "You''re absolutely perfect, Hope!" He said, hoping to score back some brownie points.


    Hope pointed at him, "You, shut it!" She hissed out, "I''m still mad at you!"


    Ellis looked between them, seemingly amused at Justin''s situation. "Should I take that as a no, Miss Van Dyne?" He queried.


    Hope shook her head, her ponytail swishing through the air, "No, Mister President, but I''d like to know more about how this works before I sign on the dotted line so to speak."


    Ellis looked at Justin, who didn''t want to speak up and draw Hope''s ire again, not when this whole plan was to manage to recruit her and Rhodes, mostly her.


    Ellis chuckled, looking more amused by the second, "Of course I''ll lay it out for you Miss Van Dyne, and you as well Colonel Rhodes." He gestured to the War Machine armor, "You''ll be joining the team already consisting of Whiplash, Vulture and the Scorpion, with one more name pending, depending on evaluations." He glanced at Hammer, who silently shook his head, before continuing, "You''ll be officially sanctioned by the United States government to act within our borders as you see fit on matters of national or global security, and we''ll quickly achieve the same with NATO I''m sure, making it legal for you to intervene there as well." He paused, looking worn all of a sudden, "With the state of the UN and everything going on across the world, I do not know how many other counties would be willing to allow your team through its borders, so we''ll have to see about that."


    "Is that¡­ Legal, Mister President?" Hope wanted to know.


    Ellis smirked briefly, "I''ll make it legal." He promised, before chuckling, "I''m sorry I had to, but not to worry, Miss Van Dyne, all the legalities have been taken care of, at least for our country."


    "What''s the name of the team?" Colonel Rhodes asked warily, which still indicated his tacit acceptance.


    President Ellis looked slightly pained, "As it is a private team hired by the United States government, naming rights belonged to the  man running and paying for the upkeep of the team¡­"


    Hope and Rhodes both stared hard at Justin.


    "The team name is Hammer, isn''t it?/The team name is Hammer, isn''t it?" They both said at the same time, both sounding absolutely done.


    Justin smiled excitedly, "You''re saying it wrong, it''s H.A.M.M.E.R." He corrected them, thrilled that his ploy worked in getting Hope onboard, she was playing hard to get, but he could tell she would sign up.


    Before he got Ellis involved, he''d doubted his chances, precisely why he got him involved - it was hard to say no to the President asking you to do a solid for the country after all.


    Some people were silly like that, thinking that a man deserved loyalty just because he managed to hoodwink more mouth breathers into voting for him.


    Hope looked at him through narrowed eyes, "Any chance you had of getting this!" She gestured to herself, "Just died an agonizing death." She promised severely.


    Justin grimaced.


    She''ll grow to like the name, he thought optimistically.


    <hr>


    A day later, White house, Washington D.C.


    "Your benefactors speak highly of you, but I''m unsure what exactly it is you''re hoping to achieve here." President Ellis told his guest, in the oval office.


    Frankly, it was nice to deal with people without being almost summoned, like it was with Justin Hammer.


    He needed the man''s money to get re-elected, or at least needed it, because if he pissed him off and got him to back the other side, he''d lose.


    After the side show at Andrews, it was nice to get to feel properly Presidential again, with his guest showing all proper levels of respect.


    The man having had several Senators of both parties vouch for him to boot, not something Ellis saw often anymore in the increasingly partisan world of politics.


    He was practically a lock for one of the Congress seats as well, an oddity for an independent in a race to replace hundreds of Congressmen.


    Bolivar Trask smiled grimly, "Only the salvation of mankind, Mister President."


    <hr>


    Malibu, California


    Tony threw the remote down in disgust, having turned off the TV beforehand, to save himself from the absolute lunacy that was the press.


    Obie, sitting across from him and smoking a cigar, shook his head slowly, taking the cigar out of his mouth, pointing it at Tony, "I warned you, Tony. It''s a brave new world, the kind of shit you could get away with before, just doesn''t work any longer." He gestured to the turned off TV, "You can''t say whatever you want anymore and expect it will wash off due to your genius, there''s another one on the board and he''s more popular than you."


    Tony gave him an annoyed look, "So you''ve said, repeatedly." He drawled sarcastically before he frowned, his mind drawn to the reporter, feeling annoyed at the man for asking him in the first place, and at himself, for his flippant devil may care answer.


    In his defense, the public used to love that exact attitude.


    Hell, his PR team used to play it up, because it sold. The devil may care playboy with a genius no one could match - people loved that shit.


    It had been over a week and the media was still playing it over and over again, different talking heads ripping him for being elitist.


    Since when was that a bad thing? He wondered.


    Pepper piped in, face severe as she crunched numbers, having followed the damage on every network, "With Hammer providing clean energy and Panacea, sometimes at cost even, his reputation is through the roof, and people are comparing the two of you¡­ It''s not coming off well so far." She said with a wince, drawing a dark look from Tony.


    Stop bringing up Hammer¡­ He was ten times the man that phony ever was, even if he begrudgingly admitted the man at least knew how to hire good people and take advantage of them.


    He''d been fighting with the board for over a week now, pushing his improvements, struggling to get them all through. Clean energy was one where he''d failed time and time again, even Obie had refused, claiming the timing wasn''t there yet.


    He didn''t care, Arc reactor tech was his, even if he hadn''t commercialized it, because he hadn''t figured out how to make it useful yet before his vacation time in the desert. But he''d begrudgingly had to acknowledge it was too hard a battle to wage right now.


    Hammer had advantages that were just hard to beat at the moment to enter the energy sector. He''d hoovered up all the talent for one, Tony not able to compete when his comprehensive health plan - the best in America - was suddenly worth less than jackshit compared to free Panacea for Hammer industries employees.


    Not to mention the absolute bullshit political support Hammer had across the world - how the hell he''d managed Tony couldn''t understand. Probably illegal shit¡­ He thought darkly.


    Tony wasn''t a damn criminal, but he''d admit crime definitely seemed to pay off in this case. And Justin Hammer was definitely slimy enough to be doing some backroom deals¡­


    He could build arc reactors no problem, Jarvis had already analyzed Justinium (ugh!) and he could easily synthesize the same. But he had neither the personnel to run it, nor the money to undercut Hammer, who in Africa was literally losing money selling contracts to build arc reactors as a charity case to the poorer countries.


    He didn''t have the infrastructure either, to begin synthesizing the new element to the level Hammer was. Let alone the problems that came from the douche no doubt patenting it, artificial products not found in nature could be held solely to the patent owner even down to the manufacturing process after all. So Tony had been forced to agree with his godfather. Pick a battle you can win, space, consumer electronics, robotics.


    If he spent all his time on clean energy, he''d just fall further behind everywhere else, he''d have to make do with arc reactors for his own factories¡­ And ugh, use Justinium under royalties or something, he''d put the lawyers on it.


    With Hammer''s health plan and good (Insane)PR, Tony couldn''t even hire enough people trained to do the jobs he needed done. Everyone wanted into Hammer industries, they''d lost fifteen percent (!) of their own workforce for just that, while Tony was gone. Which in a way was a good kick in the pants, as he''d been forced to come up with a solution for the future and studied plans with Jarvis to invest heavily into robotics.


    If he couldn''t have the staff, he''d build his own staff, with the benefit of not having to pay them or worry about healthcare, and he''d let Jarvis run his factories down to the last man - ensuring quality control.


    He was beginning to play around with a second AI, he might need it if he was going full in on robotics.


    Sadly, that all was likely at least a year or two away before it was reality for even a few factories, let alone all of them.


    Plus¡­ It wouldn''t be a great PR look either, he knew. Having to think about those kinds of things now.


    He had severely underestimated how much Obie had been doing over the years to make things work after he''d come up with a brilliant idea - never having involved himself much in the process involved after creating something.


    "The world''s changed too much in two months¡­" He didn''t whine, just complained, like a man. He didn''t usually have to worry about the logistics, it took care of itself.


    Except now he''d been hit in the face with the fact that Obie was the one who usually took care of it, and even he had limits.


    Like scrounging up factories, offices and staff, for an expansion in several sectors all at once. While trying to get out of selling weapons.


    The board was throwing a hissy of epic proportions, hence why Tony had been forced to actually go to board meetings. Everyday. This new world was lame and annoying.


    His suit was taking longer than expected due to all the interruptions and meetings he was forced to attend. If he could replace his board with robots as well it would certainly make for a smoother process¡­


    "We need to get a better PR team." He acknowledged distastefully, pretending he didn''t see the knowing look between Obie and Pepper. He wasn''t a complete manchild.


    "We have a PR team, I believe their last email to you mentioned ''Don''t speak to the press without it being a pre-scheduled interview'', sound familiar?" Pepper asked, doing air quotes as she brought up the issue, voice dry.


    Tony looked at her, pursing his lips, "Isn''t it your job to handle my email?" He said, making a disapproving sound, "Way to fall down on the job, Pep!"


    "It is my job, just like it was my job when I told you that exact sentence over a week ago,  before your board meeting, reminding you." She replied, managing to sound ever drier than previously.


    Obie coughed, drawing their attention, as he put his cigar out in the crystal ashtray on the table. "Tony, I''ve hired you a PR coach, they''re going to be with you for a month, don''t go anywhere in public without your coach, we can''t handle more bad press, not with how good Hammer looks comparatively."


    Tony really was getting tired of the H word, so he immediately pivoted to something else, "Is she hot? I bet she''s hot, you got to be, to work in PR." He spoke out of the side of his mouth at Pepper, who grimaced.


    Obie answered instead, looking serious, "What kind of fool do you take me for Tony? It''s not a woman for God''s sake, not with your impulse control - please control yourself for five minutes, we can''t keep taking beatings, there''s only so many times we can take a count before the bell rings."


    Tony thought that was a little bit unfair. He''d already provided a dozen defensive upgrades that would sell with the military, plus a new phone, watch and tablet configuration to enter the consumer electronics market with style, it wasn''t like he was being lazy.


    Hell, he wasn''t even sleeping, so they couldn''t say he wasn''t working!


    Although he''d had to start taking naps lately, due to allowing Yinsen into the workshop to help with the suit - and the man was annoyingly pedantic about stupid things like eating, showering and sleeping.


    Tony was going to get PTSD on his PTSD because of his disapproving stares.


    The man had saved his life, so he felt he owed him a lot of leeway, but now he was ridiculously acting like his damn nanny or something. And of course that traitor Jarvis was completely supporting him in his quest.


    Tony had never needed sleep before, he didn''t need it now, didn''t have time for it.


    He had hundreds of inventions to bring into the light, to show Hammer what was what. Let him have his slices of the pie, but Tony would go down in history as the real innovator. And he could do it totally guilt free, since Hammer had started it all and completely thrown the world into insanity, it wasn''t Tony''s fault now if a tech race caused further instability, he didn''t start it.


    "Tony¡­" Obie said, drawing his attention again, as he''d drifted off, studying Pepper, who was tucking her hair behind her ears self consciously, in a way that looked just perfect.


    "What?" He asked, defensively.


    "You don''t do the business side, you''re the ideas guy, I get it. Why don''t you leave it all with me, huh? You sit in the lab and knock out more about this robotics thing, and some knick knacks - " Tony was immediately offended, knick knacks! As if! It''s all the best new thing! "- And I''ll deal with all the business and PR side of things, okay?"


    Tony sighed, the many hours of no sleep pressing in on him, he eyed the worried looking Pepper idly, wondering what he was even doing wasting time, when Obie was making perfect sense.


    "Sure, Obie, you handle all the business stuff, I''ll wow you with what I can whip up!" He said, an easy grin on his face that hid the stress and nightmares crawling under his skin.


    He''d get over it soon enough, he was fine now. Fine.


    Obie can handle it,


    He''s right, I''m more of the ideas guy anyway¡­ He thought, mind already turning to the necessary fixes needed to implement a fully robotic production line for all of his factories.


    Before he could completely disappear into his mind, his eyes caught on to Obie''s phone as he checked on something, cheek twitching in annoyance.


    "Wait¡­ What phone is that, my trusted and respected godfather who would never betray me?" He drawled out.


    Obie choked on his spit, almost fumbling the phone. "What!?" He exclaimed, staring wide eyed at Tony.


    "Your phone, what is it?" He asked again with narrowed eyes.


    Obie looked relieved for some reason, as he slipped the phone into his pocket, not answering Tony. "Well, I got to go smooth things with the board, Tony. Listen to your PR coach, alright, they''ll be good for you."


    "Obie! The phone, a competitor!"


    "It''s not really until we''ve put one out, Tony, and it''s the best one on the market right now, it''s security is top notch¡­"


    "Traitor."


    <hr>

 Wakanda Forever, Nevermore

    <hr>


    May 4th, New York, the Hilton.


    "I can''t believe they scheduled congressional elections on May the fourth." Justin muttered, watching on the news as the first predicted ending polls were being discussed.


    As he didn''t have a proper headquarters in New York, he was once again forced to settle for the top penthouse suite at one of New York''s hotels.


    His business was thrumming along at full speed and with great effect, Sunil''s work in Cairo combined with the influx of working people - was greatly speeding up the more simple projects like building up the road network across the continent.


    He''d already begun with efforts to reclaim the desert. For once, it was not Vanko''s designs that assisted with the process.


    He''d taken some of what he''d seen of Vanko''s work, and applied it to large vehicles, like trucks and excavation vehicles, making them into drones, using arc reactors instead of engines to give that extra oomph, with tracks instead of wheels - also saving an absolute fortune in gas expenses.


    They were removing a ridiculous amount of sand, and since sand was used in the process to make silica, further moving it onto silica wafers used for microchips, he was even making this process into a business.


    Everyone needed microchips after all.


    Of course, there was a reason people didn''t use Saharan sand and its resources for silica wafers. In a word - it was too dirty.


    Compared to the sand from beaches there were more contaminants like iron amongst the particles, that made them unsuitable for both fine and industrial glass, and for silica wafers.


    It was also eroded by wind instead of water which created other issues, like making the grains of sands too smooth. It also lacked the necessary quartz component ideal for silicon for similar reasons.


    Justin simply went the extra expensive step of creating factories that processed the sand, before distributing the sifted and treated particles to factories around it, who''d make industrial strength glass from it.


    He had other factories concerned with making wafers for microchips, mixing in some of the ingredients necessary for the process with the sand, and crafting the sand necessary for the silicon conversion. All mostly automated, even if so far only a third of the facilities were even built, the sand extraction moving at snail pace until the factories were built up properly.


    Prohibitively expensive to do in the African desert or anywhere else really, unless the entire sand gathering workforce was basically arc powered drones, meaning no gas costs, no human cost - except for the staff overlooking the process and the maintenance and cleaning staff ensuring the trucks kept running after a day in the desert.


    Same with the automation in the factories, overlooked by a computer and maintenance team, severely limiting costs after the initial outlay. No one else could realistically afford to do this in conventional manners, but he could and had the means, so it was getting done, slowly.


    So he was cleaning out the desert one truck at a time, making room for an eventual takeover process of the cleared areas via forestation or habitation, while also making a bundle on turning that sand into money via glass and silica wafers.


    The press was absolutely loving him for his ''environmental'' work.


    But then they always loved him now.


    Something he''d used to tie a lot of potential Congress members to his interests. Normally, he''d be all for ushering in more of the old guard, as they were easily bought. The problem of course was that they were easily bought.


    He had no use for men and women who''d take his ''gift'' and turn around and vote against his interests a few months later after finding some nice gifts from someone else.


    Whores should stay bought.


    So he had both openly, and more covertly, been pushing for some young guns to enter the race. Harder to control, but bustling with the wish for change - and nothing spoke of change at the moment like Justin Hammer and Hammer industries. All of which neatly ensured they''d protect his interests from whatever remains of the old traditional members that managed to get in.


    There would always be some, the south wouldn''t vote for anything else. They were predictable to the extreme, hence why no politician bothered to ever say anything new down there, just shouting about immigrants over and over again.


    There was a reason Justin preferred to stay away from there. He couldn''t stand willful ignorance.


    Domino chortled, juggling some citrus fruits in apparent boredom, "Must make you feel good with so many of your ''young'' political proteges signing off with - may the force be with you - before going to the polls." She teased.


    She had been laughing at him all morning, because everytime he heard that idiocy, he twitched.


    Justin twitched irritably, again. "It was moronic, they need to appeal to the older crowd, not enough younger people vote, they already have that locked in just by age and good looks." He grumbled, annoyed as always when catching people at incompetence. At least when it was people nominally on his side, catching enemies at incompetence was, as always, delicious.


    "A republican supermajority in Congress is going to make things¡­ Interesting." Sunil spoke up dryly over conference call, the time difference made no difference, he was always on duty.


    Justin had a few prospects now for people to fix his AI deficiency, and Sunil was hunting them down, he should get the man another dozen assistants or something.


    "Blame the fears from Wakandan stupidity on that." Justin said, not necessarily opposed in theory, Warhawks were good for business after all. Especially the weapons business.


    The problem lay in the fact that sometimes they literally picked their hill to die on - and would refuse to be moved no matter if the apocalypse was forthcoming, which didn''t make them reliable.


    Not fully.


    Again - see the south.


    A younger Congress would hopefully somewhat alleviate that, allowing Justin to sway them his way without being obvious about it. Republicans loved the war industry and big business¡­ To a certain extent.


    Justin would have to keep it that way. Or Ellis would be using a lot of vetoes.


    If only Tony Stark could start making some sense, then this last month or two would have been almost perfect.


    He had been out of his cave for two months now, a month earlier than he was supposed to be, sure, but still, he had the time to get going already.


    So why was the asshole not flying around in his suit yet!?


    Stark industries was busy trying to expand, while dealing with the logistics problem he''d created. Neither of which should take Tony away from his suit this long - isn''t that what he had Jarvis, Stane and Pepper for?


    Why hadn''t he gone to Gulmira? It was still a terrorist plagued hellhole! Didn''t Yinsen care? Why weren''t they doing anything?


    It was frustrating the hell out of Justin.


    They were only a few months away from Thor and Iron Man 2, and Tony still wasn''t Iron Man, not that there even was a Stark Expo this time around. Stark industries for some reason didn''t think they''d be very impressive with recent events, or so he assumed.


    No more thinking on Tony, or I''ll never get anything done. He decided, turning back to the present.


    "What''s the progress in Cairo like, Sunil?" He asked, idly watching as the news continued to predict a landslide Republican victory due to Democrats being perceived as weak on the military and war efforts.


    Mostly helped along by some serious gaffes by various black liberals trying to lessen the hate on for Wakanda - political suicide to anyone with a brain - yet they''d still stood to their principles.


    It would cost them now, for the first time in Justin''s memory, people weren''t voting exclusively in their normal locked down affiliations, like their dad before them and grandfather before that, etc.


    Sunil sounded almost cheerful, as he responded, "Going splendidly, sir. Miss Munroe is a delight to work with, her efficiency and charisma is moving UNESCO into the hearts and minds of everyone here, and by far, the Metahuman approval rating is ticking higher by the minute."


    Hearts and minds and probably cocks, Justin thought amused, Storm wasn''t hard to look at, and a whole generation of Africans were likely in love. "Keep giving her a long leash, I don''t really care what she and her team is doing as long as it''s good PR." He ordered, he hardly needed to micromanage Storm, she believed this was mutants one chance to come out as something benevolent, she wouldn''t risk fucking with Hammer industries at this point in time.


    Neither was she the type, most of Xavier''s people too good for their own good - and not at all likely to backstab an ally.


    As far as UNESCO went, it was all his down to the core now. Unsurprisingly, the funding and effort to rebuild UN operations and staff was almost non-existent, as every major power focused on the Vibranium gold rush.


    At this point, Justin doubted the United Nations would even return to its former state at all.


    "And the state of our operations in Africa?" He queried next, keeping his mind busy and getting a feel for how things were progressing.


    "Red tape is practically non-existent as the leaders of each respective country are doing everything in their power to accommodate us at the moment." Sunil said confidently, "Our operations are only slowed down by the lack of infrastructure in some of the countries we are operating in, as soon as we get them up to snuff, projections have us two months ahead of schedule."


    Justin chuckled, pleased with the news. "For all the miracles we''ve created, from clean energy to Panacea, large infrastructure projects finishing ahead of time, might be the biggest of them all."


    Elena walked in just then, a frown on her pretty face, "Sir, your request for Phantazia to return was denied." She reported.


    Justin turned his head slowly towards her, "Excuse me?" He said, not sure if he heard that correctly.


    "She sent back a short reply stating that she was going to finish out her entire leave of absence, we also received a message from Magneto." Elena said, Domino sitting up straighter, a frown on her face now as well.


    Phantazia was a workaholic, either the Mystique issue was more complex than they had ever imagined - or something weird was going on.


    Justin was willing to bet on weird. It was always weird.


    Justin rubbed his brow, always has to be something, he lamented. "Well what is his message?"


    Elena pursed her lips, anger flashing in her eyes, "Denied." She said, "That is it."


    "Of course, very informative." Justin muttered, wondering if it was even worth pursuing right now. He had so many irons in the fire as it was, if Phantazia was in trouble, could he even get her out?


    Can''t expect them to be loyal if I am not¡­ He thought with disquiet, she''s been steadfast for over two years¡­ He glanced at Domino who looked unusually non-cheerful for her. There''s also the problem of losing others loyalty as well if I hesitate.


    "Elena, Sunil, start pouring over all the information we have on the Brotherhood and their whereabouts, I''ll talk to Xavier¡­" He made a noise of disgust, "And ask him for a favor." Justin said, annoyed at the interruption to a simple day watching America''s future change almost irrevocably.


    "Sunil, start equipping our security with the plastic weaponry¡­ Just in case, and someone notify Vanko."


    The man had some anti-Magneto ideas he''d been tinkering with. Perhaps it was time to start deploying them.


    Just then, his glasses beeped, signifying the one and only secret communication avenue he had that would loudly announce itself like that so he''d not miss it - one that was important and very late, and he groaned, "When it rains it pours. I need to get to my jet, it''s the closest safe spot for contacting the World Security Council."


    Because the message he got was from Killmonger, his little snake in the grass was finally ready to destroy Wakandas main shield generator.


    He felt like slapping himself in the face. God, now I even sound like I''m in a Star Wars movie. Blowing up shield generators, ugh¡­


    "Now people, now!" He snapped out, Elena jumping slightly as she got to work.


    Ugh, Killmonger finally¡­ Took you long enough¡­


    He glared at Domino who leaned back onto the couch, a leg over her knee, "Don''t you have work to do?" He sniped.


    She smirked mischievously, "I do, my job is watching your cute little butt, so I guess I''m doing great, watching you right now, in fact." She said irreverently, gesturing to her own eyes with two fingers and then to him, smirking the entire time.


    Justin definitely needed Phantazia back, his people were getting way too cheeky with him.


    <hr>


    Three hours later, Hammer Industries private jet.


    Justin hated waiting. On anything. He was fine with others waiting on him, as was only proper, but waiting on the other Security Council members was literally torturous.


    They were the ones who had hassled him for weeks, wanting updates on Killmonger''s process, updates he didn''t have, because he was deep undercover and reporting in daily or weekly was retarded.


    Something the oversight council of an intelligence agency should have known.


    And now he had the update they''d been waiting for¡­ And they were making him wait!


    Finally, minutes later, the last member''s hologram appears, Gideon Malick, the prick.


    "Does this mean you finally have something useful, Hammer?" He immediately asked, not even bothering with the niceties.


    Justin raised a mocking eyebrow, "As opposed to the eminently useful information you''ve given, Malick?" None, in case that wasn''t obvious you odious toad!


    He''d already known Malick''s name from Pierce, but the rest had finally broken down and shared identities in some futile effort of getting some team cohesiveness between council members.


    Or because they noticed his people had been sniffing around and figured they''d get it out of the way.


    He knew which theory he subscribed to.


    Alexander Pierce, attending the meeting for the first time in weeks, raised his hands in a calming motion, "Now, let''s not get away from the matter at hand, you''ve called this meeting, Justin, do you have anything to share?"


    Don''t call me Justin¡­ He wanted to say, but HYDRA was still a somewhat useful friend, even if they didn''t know he knew as much as he did. They were obviously angling to recruit him though, which hell no!


    "My operative has the ability to end the shield, today. He''s only waiting for my order." Justin said smugly, a touch of arrogance to his posture.


    These other jokers held some minor power, but they''d failed in as much as scratching Wakanda, so as usual it came down to Justin''s superior planning.


    "That''s very useful information, can we afford to wait?" The - totally not a Mandarin spy - Asian councilor asked softly. "He could be discovered any day, and we''d lose our only reliable way to end this farce of a war."


    "Setting things off too early has its disadvantages too," The British councilor interjected, "The major nations have still not come to an agreement on the distribution of Vibranium, if the shield falls¡­"


    "It will be a free for all, an utter mess that risks setting off world war three. Again." The Indian councilor said, with clear disgust in his voice, "Can we risk it?"


    "Esteemed councilors, do you believe there''s any chance of an agreement between the major nations in the near future?" Pierce asked politely, his gaze almost jovial.


    Justin scoffed loudly, drawing attention, "We speak of that like the people in this room does not influence those decisions."


    "It''s not as simple as that." Malick said, voice dripping with distaste, "No one in this room controls what Russia or China might do¡­"


    A funny thing to say with the Asian hemisphere''s councilor right there, but in essence the truth, he''s not the one with control¡­


    Justin smiled sardonically, "We might not control them, but we know exactly how they''ll act, and it won''t make a difference if it''s now or six months from now." He gave them a piercing gaze, "Except now, we have the means, who knows about the future¡­"


    "Your man can deliver?" The Indian councilor asked quietly.


    "Of course."


    What a pointless question, why else would Justin even have called this meeting for?


    "If we''re moving immediately, I''ll contact NATO to put all the pieces in place." The British councilor said, with a deep sigh following her statement.


    Gideon Malick looked displeased, as he acknowledged the apparent will of the council, "I''ll speak to Ross, if anyone can get the US forces hopping, it''s him." From the immediate grimace that appeared on his face, Ross had worked his usual charms it seemed¡­


    Pierce smiled grimly, "SHIELD is already on the ground and will of course be notified to stand ready."


    Ready to loot, no doubt, Justin thought, finding it amusing that there was literally no difference between HYDRA and SHIELD in this matter.


    "What kind of timeframe will we have?" The Asian councilor asked Justin bluntly.


    Justin hesitated momentarily, wondering if he should push for more time, or just get this over with. Eventually his busy schedule convinced him the sooner the better. "The armies are all already there right? So tonight, let''s not risk my operative or his sabotage being discovered."


    "Armies don''t move that quickly." One of the so far silent councilors broke in with.


    "They''ll have to today, gentlemen and lady." Pierce said firmly, "We all better get working." He glanced at Justin, "Give us a few hours, then we''ll work on what time we''ll set it all off, we want to have our asses covered on this one."


    Needless to say, the whole world would be watching, Wakanda''s defeat was one of the most significant world encompassing issues since World War Two.


    Justin logged off, feeling that it had been all too easy, not something he was used to with the council.


    It discomforted him. Usually it was like pulling teeth, so the fact they all so easily folded¡­


    Was he making the right choice in moving immediately?


    <hr>


    Wakanda, Royal Palace, Living quarters,


    T''Challa sighed despondently as he made his way through the corridors, heading towards his parents'' living area.


    Normally the Royal Palace brought him a sense of pride and contentment, but now all he felt was dread as he traversed the halls. It felt too much like the beginnings of a catacomb to him, his surroundings more and more equating to a prison or graveyard than a loved home.


    The finery, the weaves of the tribes of his people, the artifacts and art adorning the walls, the Vibranium in the walls practically thrumming with recognition of its chosen people - it all felt limp, fake, today.


    The Americans were in the middle of replacing those their warriors had killed in their government - and all of them were running on what measure of Wakandan blood they''d promised the public. He could see no way forward, his project barely enough to save those closest to him.


    Even his last pathetic gasp of hope was more of a failure than anything. It was admitting loss, admitting that he could do nothing for Wakanda, for its people. Those who''d all suffer while he and his made their escape.


    He felt more and more like a coward, as he''d been called plenty as of late. What else could you call a prince who was abandoning his people, his heritage, saving only the few? His sister, his parents, Nakia¡­.


    Yet, he could not foresee another path, and he refused to let Shuri suffer for their mistakes.


    His steps slowed down as he realized he''d not yet run into a single guard.


    This far into the living quarters the Dora Milaje should have been plentiful.


    Breaking out into a sprint, he rushed towards his parents living quarters, his heart beating wildly as he suddenly ran past an eviscerated guard, tossed aside like garbage, the pathway bloody and filled with the stench of the recently deceased.


    No, no, NO! He screamed internally as he ran past two more fatalities, both women heavily burned and unrecognizable.


    He broke through his Father''s door, splintering wood across the room, as he skidded to a stop, his heart breaking at the sight before him. "No! FATHER, MOTHER, WHY!?" He cried out in anguish, tears running down his face as he charged at Killmonger, who was holding his dead father up, a burning hand inserted in his chest, his mother lying dead on the floor, a handprint burned into her face.


    The smell of burning flesh suffused the room.


    Killmonger cocked his head to the side, a teasing tilt to his lips, "Hey, cuz, you missed the party." He said flippantly, tossing the former king of Wakanda at T''Challa in a sudden show of strength.


    T''Challa interrupted his rush, catching his father''s body, sliding to a stop as he laid it down gently on the ground. His eyes were burning with hate, even as tears continued to run down his cheeks. "They were your family! He accepted you when I would not!" He screamed, trying to understand.


    His parents were dead. T''Challa had not stopped Killmonger in time. He had failed. Again.


    Bast! Why not me? Why let the failure continue on!?


    Killmonger smirked, seemingly at perfect ease as he spoke up, "Yeah, in retrospect, not the smartest choice your dear old dad made, huh?"


    "I''m going to KILL you!" T''Challa growled, closing his father''s eyes, praying that he''d find some measure of peace with the ancestors.


    Cutting off the head of his killer seemed a good start for that.


    Killmonger tsked, tossing something in the air, a metallic device of some kind, "You know, I''ll almost miss all of this." He said, pressing down on the device. "Except, nah." He chuckled.


    T''Challa moved to rush him, when the entire palace shook in an almighty explosion. His face paled, as he stared at the cockily grinning murderer, "What did you do!?" He roared out, his heart thundering as he could hear screaming outside the Palace, an all encompassing cry from the people.


    His eyes grew wide in disbelief as he looked out one of the windows, seeing the receding shield that had covered Wakanda, kept it safe. That''s why I haven''t heard any shells for the past few minutes¡­ He realized.


    The enemy had stopped their artillery, they knew!


    Killmonger chuckled, tossing the detonator over his shoulder carelessly, still seemingly utterly relaxed, "Just blew your shield to kingdom come, cuz." His grin turned vicious, "There''s so many people that want your head, I think I''ll leave you alive to face justice, what do you say, King?"


    "I will kill you¡­" T''Challa hissed out lowly, eyes almost glowing, as all he could see was red.


    <hr>


    "Shield is confirmed down?" Justin asked, eyes intent on the screen as he typed in commands.


    "It''s confirmed, everyone''s moving in, it''s going to be a cluster fuck worse than anything the cold war ever threw at us, you mind? I''m kind of busy." Fury drawled sarcastically, before turning off the communications channel without waiting for confirmation.


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Justin chuckled, "Fury, so full of charm¡­" He finished what he was doing, finger hovering over the enter key.


    Flashback,


    "So Erik Stevens? How was he?" Justin asked Domino casually.


    Domino, lounging on the couch, stretched languidly like a cat, a smirk on her face, "Amazing, a veritable gift to women, wouldn''t mind a rerun or twenty." She quipped.


    Justin rolled his eyes, "I didn''t ask about how he was in bed, Domino, what''s your feeling about him?"


    Giving her a vacation was well earned, but it didn''t mean he wanted to know what fucking Killmonger got up to in bed.


    Domino gave him a doubtful look, "Why are you asking me? You already know¡­"


    Justin smirked, nodding, "I''m fairly certain yes, but getting a second opinion from someone I trust doesn''t hurt¡­"


    Domino looked slightly flattered, as she sat up straight on the couch, her expression more thoughtful, "He''s very clever, and impossibly smooth, definitely not a follower, for all that he was masquerading as a soldier¡­"


    Justin thought that fit his picture of the man perfectly, "Can he be trusted?" He asked, despite already knowing the answer.


    Domino snorted, "He can be trusted to always look for an angle, sure." She said with surety.


    Justin hummed thoughtfully, "I suppose it''s a good thing I took precautions."


    The poor man thought Hansen had given him a perfected Extremis, instead he''d gotten a version that slowly eroded.


    By this point, his regeneration wouldn''t be more than an ability to heal cuts.


    Perfect for the implant in his head to take care of business if needed.


    Justin eyed the program that held the only detonator to a man''s brain, sliding his fingers over the keys.


    Soon enough, Killmonger, he thought softly in his mind.


    Too bad you''re so untrustworthy, you could have been something¡­


    Flashback end.


    He pressed the enter key, sending the signal across the world to Wakanda.


    "Sorry Erik, but some gifts shouldn''t be taken at face value. They can be poisoned¡­"


    <hr>


    Wakanda,


    Before T''Challa could strike, Killmonger stumbled suddenly, raising a hand to his face, eyes shocked, as blood began pouring out of every orifice. His eyes met T''Challa''s, agony and anger visible for only a second, "Hammer!" He managed to croak out in pure disbelief, getting out those last words, taking a step forward - before he seemed to lose control of his body, falling face first to the ground.


    It was anticlimactic, and not at all satisfying to T''Challa, not enough to gain revenge on the traitor.


    T''Challa hesitated before the body, unsure what was happening, and then suddenly Killmonger''s head exploded like a melon that had taken a sledgehammer to it, blood and viscera showering him as he stared at the inexplicable moment, shocked and angry.


    It finally clicked in his mind, through the haze of grief and anger.


    Killmonger had been a disposable agent, completely unaware it seemed, someone had killed him from afar once the shield went down, even this outsider Wakandan was simply used by their enemies. Used and disposed of like trash!


    Hammer¡­ It all came back to Hammer. He was the reason for all of this¡­


    He sent Killmonger.


    He killed his country, his parents¡­


    And now, he even stole T''Challa''s revenge!


    "Hammer¡­" He growled, sending one last glance at his parents, wishing he could do more, before he ran, heading for his sister.


    They needed to leave.


    Now!


    ¡­


    Across the borders, NATO, SHIELD and various forces from neighboring African countries rushed in, ready to establish their own slice of the pie, and push out any latecomers.


    It was a race, and therefore the forces pushed harder and further than what would be wise in traditional combat doctrines.


    Of the Wakandans that got in the way¡­


    No one had any time for them.


    <hr>


    San Francisco, Pym technologies.


    "Dad, what''s the big rush?" Hope asked, with a hint of exasperation as she entered his office, having received no less than five phone calls and three emails to ensure she arrived.


    He''d been more insufferable than ever lately. Hope would have thought that his genius being acknowledged across the world would have pleased him, but it only made him crankier.


    They''d had to upgrade security tenfold due to the heightened threat profile, as everyone in the world realized the efficacy of Pym particles. Realized exactly what could be done with it.


    She knew her father slept in his new and improved Ant Man suit nowadays, ensuring anyone trying to come for him would have a bad day.


    She didn''t go quite that far, but she regularly wore the Wasp suit under her clothes when out and about.


    And of course there was the whole¡­ Justin Hammer thing, and the superhero thing¡­ Her dad had not been a fan of either of those developments.


    She''d been so focused on her dad, sitting behind his desk with a pleased smile like the cat that got the canary, that she totally missed the other person in the room until he spoke up.


    Then again, she generally tried to miss his presence while going around the building too.


    "Hope, nice to see you again, radiant as always." Darren Cross said, a big grin on his face. He looked about as pleased as her dad did, except his grin was significantly dumber.


    "Darren¡­ What a surprise." Hope said, controlling her expression, turning towards her dad, "Dad¡­ Mind explaining what''s got you in such a good mood?" And why is your sleazy fanboy in here?


    The only good thing about Darren Cross was that he''d normally spend all his time in the lab or sucking up to the board, so Hope didn''t have to see him too much. What her father saw in that man she didn''t know. He reminded her of a weasel, his smile at times too wide and too fake.


    He was also very obviously into her. And saw her rejection as a cute game they were playing. Major skyscraper sized red flags right there.


    Of course her dad disagreed, sometimes she wondered what on earth her mom could have ever seen in him.


    "Hope, I''ve solved all our issues." Hank said smugly, gesturing to Darren, "Show her Darren."


    Darren turned around and grabbed a helmet that had been behind him on the table.


    Hope turned to her dad aghast, "You didn''t!?"


    Darren chuckled, fastening the Ant Man helmet onto his head, obviously wearing the suit under his clothes, "No need to sound so surprised Hope, my lovely, I''m practically family." With practiced ease, like he''s been doing this for a while, he initialized the Pym particles in the suit, and shrunk down.


    Hope turned stormy eyes on her dad again, not able to understand how he could sit there and look proud, after making such a fundamentally stupid decision. "You gave Darren Cross the Ant Man suit!?" She paused for a moment as Darren reappeared, at least he still had the old bulky type, not like Hope''s where her helmet simply flowed on, due to her father''s innovations in nanotech.


    God, how could he ever think this was a good idea! She thought with disgust. Even if he didn''t give him nanotech, he''s literally handed Pym particles to this idiot, when he refused for so long to give even a tiny amount to Justin!


    "Wait¡­ How long have you had this?" She asked Darren suspiciously, narrowing her eyes.


    "A few months, why?" Darren said, looking a bit put out that Hope wasn''t more impressed, rubbing his arm like he was a child sent to the principal, feeling guilty but not knowing for what.


    Foolish man, like she''d be impressed by a suit and power she''d seen her dad use frequently. That''s just yuck, definitely not dating material, no matter how much he flashed cow eyes her way.


    Hope turned to her father again, angry, practically spitting out, "What!? You made me beg for a year!"


    Only the fact their threat profile had massively increased had led to him allowing her to have the Wasp suit, to wear it underneath her clothes everywhere she went to protect herself from potential kidnapping threats or worse. If that hadn''t happened - she''d still be begging him for it! And Darren Cross got it in a few months!


    Hank blanched, the pleased smile falling off his lips, "It isn''t like that, Hope." He hurriedly tried to defend himself, "I gave it to him to protect you."


    Hope straightened, a furious expression on her face, "I can protect myself, dad! And you what? Got me a superpowered bodyguard without even informing me?"


    Sadly, she wasn''t even surprised. This was very on brand for the great Hank Pym. She was angry though, very angry. "Did you not think for even a second that I should have a say in this?"


    Darren was looking very uncomfortable now, and like he was wondering if he could shrink down again without being noticed. He also looked pathetically hurt, like Hope had crushed his dreams by not falling in love the moment she saw him in a matching suit.


    Men!


    Hank blustered a little, squirming in his seat, before as usual, stomping past all her thoughts and feelings to be Hank Pym about it, "Nevermind that, Hope! You''ve been running around with that nutjob Hammer, and now you''re going to be part of some sort of superhero team! You didn''t consult me on that, did you?" He said triumphantly.


    Hope squashed the wish to throw something at him, she was better than that. "Who I spend time with is none of your business, dad! And the President asked me to join, and I have this suit for a reason! I couldn''t say no to helping!"


    Hank rose up, hands flat on the desk as his neck turned a furious red, "You have that suit because I gave it to you!" He spat out, eyes flashing behind his glasses. "It''s for your protection, not so you can go seek danger!"


    Hope couldn''t believe what she was hearing, or she could¡­ She just hadn''t thought he''d be so pigheadedly obstinate with her. "So you should decide who I spend time with, what I wear, whether I change my career, whether I choose to serve my country?" She said dangerously quietly.


    "Yes!" Hank yelled, before he seemed to realize what he was saying, "Wait, you know I don''t mean it like that, Hope¡­" He said looking stricken.


    Hope held her head high, "You made your meaning pretty clear, Mister Pym. Am I allowed to leave?" She asked coldly, bitterly.


    She was after all just an employee at Pym technologies, and he was her boss and CEO.


    "I think¡­ Everyone should just take a deep breath, I''ve done a lot of Yoga and it''s helped balance my chakras, I think you two could use some of that as well." Darren said with an easy grin, the fakeness practically exuding from him to Hope''s eyes.


    Hope ignored him completely, she was not even going to entertain the idea of this fool following her around as her bodyguard! And good luck getting Justin Hammer to accept him to the team, she was sure she could easily convince him to see it her way.


    Her lips quirked just the tiniest bit, thinking Justin would probably go quite a bit further then just denying him a place if she told him her thoughts on the man. It felt nice to know someone had your back to such an extent. She eyed her boss angrily, unlike some people¡­ She thought.


    "I have work to do, may I be excused, sir?" She asked again, standing ramrod straight as she watched Hank Pym slump in his seat.


    "We''ll talk later¡­ You''ll understand, Hope." He said wearily.


    Hope really doubted that. But she took the tacit agreement to leave, and walked out as soon as she could.


    Screw work, she was getting absolutely shit faced.


    On the company credit card.


    She might as well buy a round or ten for everyone on the block as well¡­


    Because fuck Hank Pym!


    <hr>


    Madripoor, Violet Eye Brothel, same time.


    Norman Osborn usually wouldn''t be caught dead in a place like this. So¡­ Savage and uncouth.


    The entire first floor seemed more like a debauched nightclub more than anything, cages hanging from the ceiling - women, men, boys and girls swaying to the music in various states of altered minds, prices displayed openly.


    Life was cheap, not anything new to Norman.


    Art was displayed in abundance, by a loose definition of the word - as the paintings invariably depicted people in flagrante, hardly worthy of the Louvre.


    Well¡­ Slap the right signature on the bottom, and it would get in, he supposed. He even employed a skilled forger just for the purpose of ruining the enjoyment of their art collections from his rivals.


    He''d even hired the man from a place just like this in Madripoor, where everything and everyone was for sale.


    The bar, the seating area and other various props and decorations were a mix of chrome and violet neon lights with splashes of graffiti here and there. Modern trash, he couldn''t help but think of it.


    The masses of apes that made up the lower class always found new ways to debase themselves¡­


    It did have its charms though, he thought, as he brushed past several women only wearing glitter and bejeweled bits, serving drinks to the men and women who frequented the Violet Eye. Criminals and business men - not so different from each other after all.


    And at least he didn''t stand out too much in his finely tailored suit, the clientele being a mix of people such as he, down to filthy gangsters with gang tattoos proudly displayed.


    A woman that was entirely colored in violet and purple skin with glowing pink eyes stepped up to him, her nails several inches long and appearing to be razor sharp with an almost metallic sheen, her toothy smile showcased equally razor sharp teeth. He was briefly interested in if the effect was due to the woman actually tattooing her entire body and filing her teeth, implanting the nails and such and wearing contact lenses - or if she was some kind of mutant. One took effort and commitment he could appreciate, the other he didn''t care for. His eyes took in her entirely nude body, a voice somewhere cackling madly as he wondered if she''d bleed red, or purple.


    He wasn''t mad, it was the world that was insane, Norman seemed to be the only sane man left, the only one willing to make the hard choices.


    "Monsieur Osborn, you''re expected, I''m Madame D¨¦sordre, welcome to my Violet Eye." She said coolly, in an obviously french accent.


    So obvious that he was almost positive it was all fake.


    Norman raised an incredulous eyebrow at the knowledge she was the owner however, his bodyguards shuffling slightly in surprise behind him. The owner parading around like this was a shock - even though Norman had expected nothing but filth and damnation in this hellhole¡­


    That said, for someone with a small measure of power - to debase themselves before clients and employees like this - he just couldn''t understand these people. These weaklings.


    Madame D¨¦sordre gave him a sardonic smirk, her eyes narrowing in cruel delight, "Ah, the great Norman Osborn is tongue-tied, yes?" She gestured with a toned muscled arm, her bust bouncing along with the action mesmerizingly, the woman showing no shame whatsoever, "The Violet Eye holds the desires of the world, which desire is it that you seek, hmm?"


    Norman HATED her for a brief moment, CRUSH THAT SLUT! His ears ringing as his countenance darkened, as he took a step forward into Madame D¨¦sordre''s personal space, "You can''t possibly fathom my desires," He growled out almost bestialy. "You already know what I''m here for, don''t play games with me!" His lips twisted into a snarl, as he almost spat at the woman.


    Before his bodyguards could even react, two nails sharper and deadlier than most knives rested against his jugular, Madame D¨¦sordre studying him carefully, tapping his vein, "It''s been some time since you''ve been in Madripoor, Monsieur Osborn¡­" She mused out loud.


    His useless bodyguards raised their hands over their heads, as every man woman and child in the place somehow found themselves with a weapon in hand. Inevitably pointing it at them, more arriving on the balconies overlooking the first floor, turrets sliding out of the walls next to the entrance, whirring as they found them within their sights.


    This was some achievement, as many of the employees were absolutely naked and hadn''t had quick access to a weapon. He did find it quite amusing that the turrets were Oscorp branded too.


    "How big your cock is outside in the other world doesn''t matter here." She said wickedly, one of her fangs scratching up her lip, her long tongue idly licking up the blood, as she met his eyes. "Madripoor stands for Madripoor only, you can not come in here and try to push me around in my house!"


    Norman cackled, eyes wild and alive as he pushed forward against the deadly weapons masquerading as nails that were held against his throat, Madame D¨¦sordre swiftly moving her hand back, a flicker of something uncertain appearing in her eyes, "Are you mad, Osborn? That would have killed you." She said bluntly.


    Norman pushed forward yet another step, Madame D¨¦sordre having the choice to kill him, or to step back from him in front of everyone. Norman just knew somehow, something insistent singing in his veins, that he''d win this confrontation no matter what. "Is it mad? I see you backing up, little rabbit." He said viciously, a mad grin on his face as the proprietor of the Violet Eye stepped away from him fully, eying him warily.


    She had lost. She was not as willing to kill someone of his stature as she''d postured. He glorified in her hate filled gaze. His dominance assured, just like that little voice in the back of his mind whispered.


    "Kill the rest of them!" She spat out, acting like an angry toddler, lashing out. Gunfire briefly erupting after her words and managing to paint the mostly violet building red, Norman quite liked it. It was an improvement.


    Not as nice as green, but red had its own charm.


    His men had been caught completely unprepared, having visibly kept hands away from their weapons in the face of overwhelming firepower. The flashes of bullets fired from all directions and the screams they elicited as they mowed down his men like wheat, made Norman feel alive in a way he hadn''t in over a decade, something within him stirring in lust.


    He eyed the dead and dying bodyguards impassively, hiding his arousal over the scene. Having seen Madame D¨¦sordre back down before him once already, he wasn''t worried. And he''d just hire some of this rabble for when he needed to leave. "You''ve saved me the bother of paying them for services rendered, I suppose your little club does have its uses." He grumbled, sneering at her, "Now take me to my meeting, you were hired to facilitate this were you not?"


    Madame D¨¦sordre twitched irritably, "Clean this filth up!" She snapped to her people, fingers twitching as she slit the throat of a boy walking past her with a tray of long necked drinks, "Get out of my way!" She snarled, walking away towards a doorway in the back, guarded by several armed men with military quality weaponry.


    Norman looked down at the rapidly spreading pool of blood from the collapsed server boy, laughing quietly to himself, now¡­ Now the woman was somewhat attractive to him¡­


    He followed her lackadaisically, in no particular rush now, because he knew it would annoy the woman - now that her little power play had so miserably failed.


    He was led through two corridors, before Madame D¨¦sordre stopped by a large door, again guarded by burly military grade style types. "He''s in there." She said shortly, crossing her arms under her bust, giving him a hateful stare.


    Norman simply chuckled at her, patting her on the cheek, not even caring about the three cuts he received to his hand as she slapped it away, they were only skin deep anyway, she''d held back, scaredy cat¡­. "Everything is for sale, you said¡­ Don''t go anywhere, consider yourself bought for the evening." He ordered cruelly, delighting in the absolute loathing she directed his way.


    He knew her type now, the kind of criminal that would sell even their grandmother with a smile, in parts, piecing her out herself. She''d hate him for every moment, but she''d take his money. He couldn''t care less about the sex, but putting her in her place¡­ Oh yes, it would be worth the no doubt exorbitant fee.


    He entered, plastering on a regular smile, "Ulysses Klaue, you''re a hard man to get a hold of nowadays¡­"


    Klaue, dressed in some kind of ridiculous fake military outfit with so many medals on it that it could sink a ship, grinned widely, leaning back against a violet and circuitous couch, "Well if it isn''t Norman Osborn, howdya manage to sucker the military into buying your crap ahead of my mate Justin, huh?"


    Norman had known the man was annoying, but to open with that, he was beginning to think his sources had undersold it.


    "Superior abilities and product." Norman said, feeling a spike of anger at the assertion that his superior products were inferior to Hammer. "I was under the impression you had accepted this meeting with the intent to do business?" He didn''t bother to sit down, having some serious doubts on the cleanliness of any private room in this locale.


    Klaue grinned happily, "Maybe I just wanted to have you fly all the way over here, all worked up for nothing, eh?" Before letting loose a loud guffaw, slapping his knee in an absurd showing of some kind of slapstick humor, while Norman twitched and stood there, growing increasingly angrier.


    This cretin isn''t taking me seriously!


    "You may have come across a bit of luck with current world events, Klaue, but I would not be taking this so humorously." Norman warned, not letting his anger and disgust show on his face. Trailer trash weapons dealer, you''re nothing but refuse swimming with sharks, Klaue¡­


    Klaue stopped laughing, leaning forward slightly, one hand stroking his beard, his fingers each adorned by a gaudy ring. "Like in everything else, Osborn, you''re beneath Justin Hammer, even in the threats department." He chuckled, tapping his knuckles against the low wooden table in front of him, "My mate had this look in his eyes like he wanted to dissect me at times, really had me over the barrel once too, but he needed me too much to ever pull the trigger." His eyes glinted with malice and greed as he smacked his lips loudly, blowing Norman a kiss, "Just like you''re here cuz you need me, eh?"


    What patience Norman still held, snapped, and between one moment and the next, he was holding Klaue up in the air, a manic grin on his face as Klaue kicked fruitlessly against him, his eyes wide. "Well then, Klaue, there''s the difference between Hammer and me!" He cackled, his grin spreading wider, encompassing his entire jaw, his eyes almost popping out of his face as he held Klaue up in the air without a hint of effort. "I have a hair trigger! Sometimes I don''t even realize I''ve pulled the trigger until there''s a big mess everywhere¡­"


    As he cackled, he thought he could hear more cackling from everywhere around him, only making him want to do it more, even as Klaue was turning blue, slapping his arm, trying desperately to tap out. "You know more about Wakanda than you''re saying, I want that info, I want to know where the juiciest pieces are, so that when the shield falls, I''ll get the best slice of the pie, and you will tell me, won''t you?"


    He lowered the man''s face, so that they were eye to eye, enjoying the panic he saw in the other man''s eyes as his air was beginning to run out.


    "What say you, Klaue? Who''s scarier now?" He hissed out, seeing his own approving and grinning face in the reflection of Klaue''s eyes.


    <hr>


    Hammer industries private jet, with Elena.


    As Justin was making himself comfortable in the chair of secrecy - as she liked to call it - Elena settled down on the couch, laptop on her knees as she thought over things.


    Maybe it was odd for a spy and assassin to enjoy being a personal assistant, but she honestly had never felt more powerful than she felt now.


    Instead of guns, knives and wire, she wielded the pen, phone and laptop. And she held in her hands more power than some leaders of developed countries.


    The amount of trust and power Justin gave to his inner circle - once you got in - was mind boggling. It was no wonder Sunil had abandoned HYDRA immediately, the right hand of Hammer could practically decide which country lived or died.


    How many HYDRA goons could say the same?


    Sunil had been found out immediately however¡­ While Elena was still keeping a big secret. And everyday she wondered if they all knew, and just kept quiet, trusted her anyway.


    Or if she was going to be put in the deepest hole on earth once she came clean.


    She didn''t think Justin would do that, because she''d proved her loyalty over and over again, but it would still amount to a betrayal of trust, and she felt a pang inside her at the idea of Justin no longer trusting her.


    Which made it all the harder to come clean and tell him who she really was and why she was initially sent here¡­


    She still sent falsified reports back from time to time, pretending she was still doing her job, that she was still a good little black widow. Luckily enough she hadn''t received any other orders than to keep close and gather information. Not that she sent back true information anyway.


    If the order came down to kill¡­


    She''d have to come clean immediately, before more Black Widow''s arrived, this time to take her out, for refusing orders.


    After Wakanda is taken down, things will calm down, I''ll tell him then. She decided, glancing over at the chair, privacy screens already up and limiting her view of Justin.


    She bit her lip, her sister would so make fun of her for developing feelings for a target if she heard about it¡­


    She snorted amusedly, then again, Nat had her own run in with Justin, as she''d found out.


    She''d refused to watch the whole video on principle, because sister. But she was very amused at how completely played her sister had been, the feared Black Widow? fooled completely and dancing to the tune of Justin''s skilled fingers. She blushed slightly, and the fact he outmaneuvered one of the best spies in the world is totally attractive too¡­


    She was still slightly pissed because on one hand, he''d embarrassed her sister. On the other, it was funny, and gave her some much needed ammunition against her big sister.


    Who''s the best widow now, Natasha?


    She tapped her lip with a finger, frowning in thought, it will make Christmas dinners slightly awkward though I suppose.


    She glanced at Justin again, I was totally better than her too, right? Is it okay to ask? Or is that creepy?


    She could literally feel her cheeks flaming up, so she dropped that line of thought, and focused on her laptop.


    They had over a hundred Metahumans who''d applied - they all needed comprehensive psych profiles and background checks done before they could trust their application to be genuine.


    Sunil was busy with the revitalization of Africa, so it came to her to arrange everything. Her eyes narrowed as she came upon a name she knew from her Black Widow days.


    A mutant that definitely could not be trusted, one who had assisted Dreykov before.


    And for this kind of scum, she was perfectly comfortable using Mutant instead of Metahuman.


    It was a conundrum however¡­ If Dreykov knew somehow that she had any say on these applications, her turning them down would signal that she was no longer mind controlled - while her not having reported that she had that much power, would signal it as well.


    But if she said yes, she''d be inviting a snake into the company to do damage, someone she knew to be a sociopath.


    Denied, she clicked, putting a red flag on the application to ensure there was no doubt about the unviability of his application.


    She''d made her bed, and once Justin accepted her apologies for keeping it secret for so long.


    She''d deliver him an army of sexy Black Widow secretaries to do his bidding!


    <hr>


    Hammer industries private jet, With Justin.


    Justin was still in the World Security Council chair, eyes closed as he listened to the communication as SHIELD tried to organize and herd the over a dozen different militaries that were rushing into Wakanda at top speed.


    They took losses of course, as the Wakandan super soldiers had been close to the border, and suicidically threw themselves at the foreign invaders in a vain attempt to slow them down.


    Except they weren''t facing stationary artillery targets now, sneaking around in the night in hit and run tactics.


    Facing a mobile highly trained and flexible attacking force, the Wakandan super soldiers found themselves flanked and pinned in short order, taking dozens of men down with them for each one, but all being brought down.


    All faithfully reported over channels, SHIELD sorting through it all, allowing Justin to take it all in, keeping an eye on Fury through it all, half believing the spy of spies would pull something.


    His eyes opened as someone screamed over the channel, "Launch detected!" Complete silence descending for but a millisecond, before everyone began hustling.


    "Where goddamnit!?" Fury''s voice came over the line as Justin grabbed the chair tightly with his hands, no, not fucking again! He thought, stop playing with nukes you fucking morons!


    "Satellite''s detected it¡­ African east coast, outside Somalia. It''s the Iliad!" The operator''s voice yelled out, sounding defeated.


    "Motherfucker, get everyone out! Every damn man and woman with a goddamn radio, cellphone or loud voice get a hold of them and get those men out!" Fury roared, the channels exploding with chatter.


    NATO had just entered the country, the Americans and Africans both already rushed in way ahead of them, albeit from different vectors, both now far enough inside a quick retreat was likely impossible in time.


    Justin closed his eyes, feeling sick.


    There were not enough assets for taking down a ballistic missile in eastern Africa. The American aircraft carriers were in the Mediterranean, and wouldn''t be able to respond in time, the Iliad had popped up too close to Wakanda.


    He could still hope that Wakanda had a missile defense. C''mon you advanced bastards, missile defense is nothing, tell me you''ve got it, he thought.


    He had no idea if a nuclear strike would affect the Vibranium, but if Wakanda was wiped off the map, it was going to be a prelude to a lot of world issues as every nation began to prepare for escalation, watching each other anxiously.


    Wondering if one of them was truly behind it all in an attempt to stop the others.


    Time ticked down, the cacophony of noise ignored by Justin as he waited. He had changed the world.


    If Wakanda was wiped out in nuclear fire¡­


    It was he that had done it.


    "Wakandan response in the air!" Someone spoke over the noise in the channel to say, everyone else quieting down, "Birds approaching, they won''t make it in time, missiles launching from all over Wakanda, they''re giving it everything they''ve got!"


    Silence, utter silence, as everyone waited.


    "Missile destroyed!" Was finally reported.


    Across the world, a sigh of relief was let loose amongst the intelligence and military community.


    Justin''s was likely the biggest.


    "R-report in from the US embassy in Moscow, the Russians have told them they''ve lost contact with one of their nuclear submarines, want us to know any action isn''t from them." A shaky sounding operator spoke over the channel.


    The palpable relief present just seconds ago, disappeared in a rush of fear and paranoia.


    "How long ago!?" Fury barked, sounding disturbed - speaking up after a moment of sheer disbelief, one shared by Justin as he listened in.


    Because you have got to be kidding me right now?


    "Thirty minutes sir!"


    "Took their sweet time¡­" Fury cursed, "Last known location?"


    "... The coast of Saudi Arabia."


    Which is not that far away from Wakanda¡­ Justin thought, gnawing on a nail, who the fuck is doing this!?


    And why the fuck do the Russians have a sub there in the first place.


    "China has reached out, they''ve.. A-also lost contact with one of their nuclear submarines, thirty one minutes ago." Another operator said quietly, but everyone heard, "The Chinese called the American ambassador and they''ve just passed it along to us up the chain."


    "What?" Fury asked flatly.


    "Sir! Just in from the Pentagon, they lost contact with USS Kentucky and USS Nebraska, fifteen minutes ago!" Came the cry from yet another operator.


    Justin felt real fear, this just couldn''t be happening!


    In the comics and movies no one just went and stole nuclear weapons! It wasn''t done!


    "Launch detected!"


    "Two launches detected off the west coast of Africa!"


    "Launch detected off the coast of Saudi Arabia!"


    The chatter died down, NATO and US forces were already scrambling jets, a last ditch attempt to shoot down the ballistic missiles heading for Wakanda.


    No one believed Wakanda had the defenses capable of stopping this after that last gasp salvo - the forces already inside Wakandan soil, would not make it out on time.


    All they could do was sit and wait.


    Bearing silent witness.


    <hr>


    Wakanda,


    T''Challa loaded the last of the people he could afford to take onboard sans one last one, feeling melancholy, and a deep sense of anger.


    He''d recognized the activation of their last gasp missile defense, something that would only be happening if the westerners were planning on bombing them into oblivion.


    He only needed the last person to board, and they would at least save something from Wakanda.


    "Okoye, it''s time." He said, watching the woman standing by the flight platform, staring into the distance, towards the mountains.


    "No, my place is in Wakanda, I was born here¡­" Okoye turned to him, her eyes wet, but her face full of determination, "And I''ll die here, taking as many of these monsters down with me as I can."


    "Okoye¡­ Please, I need you onboard." T''Challa begged, not wanting to lose another person close to him.


    She smiled softly at him, "You do not need me, my king." She stepped up to him, hands on his shoulders as she leaned her forehead against his, "You are everything a Wakandan should be, go, save what you can."


    "Wakanda forever¡­" T''Challa said sadly, looking around, taking one last look at it all, Wakanda, Okoye, his home.


    "Wakanda forever!" Okoye snapped out, crossing her arms across her chest.


    T''Challa stepped onboard, the ship he''d had his people work on day and night taking off into the air.


    Okoye looked at it until it disappeared completely into the sky.


    She was ready to die, to fight these westerners, to kill. She''d show them the swansong of Wakanda, and they''d sing songs of their last defense for eternity.


    She was tossed off her feet suddenly, as a sound unlike anything she''d ever heard erupted all around her, the noise alone tossing her.


    From her prone position, she could see the mushroom cloud, and the ever closing devouring trail of smoke, fire and debris heading her way, ruining everything in its path.


    "COWARDS!" She shouted as nuclear fire wiped everything away.


    Wakanda''s last song never sung.


    <hr>


    Time ticked by, even Fury not barking orders as they waited for the results, hopelessly praying for a miracle.


    Even Justin had nothing this time. Anything short of Magneto vacationing in Wakanda right now would fail to have any significant effect.


    One broken voice came over the channel, "One bogey down¡­ Three hits¡­"


    Justin disconnected, feeling sick.


    Wakanda just took three nuclear strikes.


    Three!


    He''d changed something. Something for the worse.


    Someone out there had done everything in their power to wipe out Wakanda.


    And they''d succeeded.


    <hr>


    High above Wakanda, in orbit.


    T''Challa couldn''t believe it.


    Not in his wildest dreams could he have imagined that their enemies would go that far.


    The shield was down, they were practically defenseless, their other defenses gradually having been decommissioned over the years as the reliability of their shield and anonymity - led to it being considered a waste of funds to maintain.


    With the help of Wakanda''s best scientists, he''d succeeded in transforming the corpses of several of their warships, into one larger ship to transport as many of his people as he could cram in over the last few months.


    Originally intended for his parents, Shuri and Nakia, to escape the murderous westerners who''d no doubt kill them all for being associated with Wakanda''s ruling family. It was now holding over three dozen other Wakandan''s.


    Shuri stood by his side, staring down at the sight of Wakanda''s death, her lip wobbling as she tried to be brave.


    Tried not to cry. To show herself as a proud Wakandan warrior - like Okoye.


    Okoye¡­ Robbed of your last stand¡­


    T''Challa laid a hand on Shuri''s head, speaking softly, his voice hoarse from all the screaming and crying he''d done so far, "Cry, Shuri, let it out, there is no shame here, cry for our people, our land, for our family, our friends. No warrior has dry eyes today, sister."


    His own were red, tears streaking down his face, even as his heart burned with everburning hatred.


    They would traverse space, their experimental ship hopefully enough to get them to somewhere habitable.


    Then, someday, even if he had to wait until he was ancient¡­


    They would pay!


    All of them!


    Justin Hammer!


    <hr>


    New York, Hilton Hotel, next day.


    Justin wanted to tear his hair out, as he tossed his phone onto the couch, holding back a scream of frustration. The President''s hands were tied up right now, he couldn''t do anything no matter what Justin threatened.


    The World Security Council''s moronic assertion that Magneto was behind this all, was going to screw up everything he was doing.


    If anything, the addition of several nuclear subs going out of contact at the same time, and launching their payload against Wakanda - pointed away from Magneto.


    He was one powerful bastard, but controlling the Iliad and several submarines from opposite ends of the continent at the same time, might be too much even for him.


    And he hated that comic book shenanigans forced him to have to add the might, onto there. Because he possibly was that powerful.


    Magneto would have to respond if the world shoveled this crap onto his shoulders. Which would only worsen the situation. Which was why he was doing everything in his power to get the leaders of the world to reject any overreaction to the Council''s moronic assertion.


    "At least it can''t get any worse than it is right now¡­" He muttered, the intelligence agencies and government brass had no intention of publicly calling out Magneto at this time. Which gave him time to work something out.


    The situation was still manageable, if not at an ideal state.


    He really hoped the Vibranium mines were fine, or the world governments were going to throw even more of a hissy fit.


    The fact Wakanda was practically wiped out, wasn''t very high on anyone''s concern, only the consequences thereof.


    At least amongst the powerful in the world.


    Justin wondered briefly who would actually want to wipe them out, or limit access to Vibranium. Surely even the Mandarin or any other villain would want the miracle metal around¡­


    Africa was already bracing itself for what may come their way as winds picked up, and he couldn''t imagine who''d risk so much, risk total nuclear war for this.


    Only the fact that all the major nations involved had actually communicated beforehand had kept things steady, none of the major powers adding to the horror show by adding their own fire.


    The Iliad and the submarines had all apparently been sunk, their purpose spent.


    He''d have to look into it as a matter of course, but first he needed to clean up this whole situation, before it boiled over into his Metahumans project. As crass as it was to say, even as sick as he felt over it all, life moved on, and he couldn''t stop.


    He knew he''d have nightmares from this¡­ Probably would have already if he''d at all managed to sleep since.


    Wordlessly Elena gestured to the TV, drawing his attention, so Justin stomped over, and raised the volume. It was a live press conference on CNN. Some newly elected congressman he had never heard of, the names tended to blend together when several hundred of them were being elected at the same time.


    He felt he should have remembered this name however, because how often was a little person elected to Congress?


    He looked a little like Peter Dinklage if he squinted, and he wondered why Elena wanted him to watch some rookie congressman shoot his mouth.


    On the screen, the tiny severe figure of Bolivar Trask was seen, (name shown on the screen) microphones shoved into his face as he held a fiery speech, eyes almost feverish, "- this is absolute proof that Hammer''s whitewashing of these mutants is absolutely ridiculous, Magneto is the number one suspect for this heinous attack, a mutant capable of controlling several nuclear missiles at a time with the ease you and me have carrying a bag of groceries to the car."


    How the fuck does he have that information! The President of the United fucking States didn''t know Magneto was a suspect until I fucking told him what the Security Council believed and tried to get him on my side of things¡­ Justin immediately resolved to put this Trask midget, high up on his to do list.


    The reporters all shouted out questions, eager for more of the controversy that would erupt from the words of the newly elected congressman. Trask ignored them all, staring deeply into the camera, speaking to the American people in living rooms across America, "Make no mistake, mutants are not our friends, they are here, amongst us, hiding, waiting to strike. They''re able to kill us at a glance, read and steal our minds, make us into vegetables - or in the case of the real monsters, like Magneto, capable of annihilating civilization." Trask said chillingly, his absolute surety in what he was saying resonating through the airwaves.


    "Pay some mutants to do charity in Africa if you wish, Justin Hammer, try and change their names to something more PR friendly, it will avail you nothing." Trask voice rose in a crescendo as he continued, "They will turn on you, they will turn on us all, because they''re not like us, and they are capable of completely wiping humanity off the face of the earth, we can no longer let it be, not after last night''s display, the earth itself and all of humanity counts on us to ACT NOW!"


    Justin stared at the TV screen, a complicated expression on his face.


    "Shit." He said succinctly.


    <hr>

 Revelations.

    <hr>


    Undisclosed location, Midwest.


    Justin frowned as he saw the caller ID, "Alright, I have to take this, keep it down for a minute." He cautioned, waiting for his people to follow through on his request, before he hit answer.


    "Fury, this better not be another call for me to fix your problems because you failed to do your job." He spat out caustically.


    He was in no mood for any more games from SHIELD. With everything he was already doing, they should pick up some of the slack.


    Like say for example; they could try to not lose several nuclear submarines within thirty minutes.


    Surely someone at SHIELD or HYDRA had the job to solely keep an eye on that shit?


    Or they could have overridden military bureaucracy and stopped them from skimping on air defense around Wakanda - because the super soldiers kept sneaking out and destroying it.


    The Vibranium would have been enough of a get that even if the US army lost every single land to air battery they held - they''d still come out on top financially by a landslide.


    Now, they faced a slog, whoever had taken over the Iliad and those subs, had not only fired the nuclear missiles, but had somehow made them dirtier, compounding the issue.


    Modern nukes would kill everyone in the vicinity and smash through the infrastructure, but the radiation wouldn''t be the post apocalyptic nightmare that such a thought incited.


    Except whatever force managed to sneak this through under the noses of everyone, from Justin, to SHIELD, to the governments, to even the fucking Mandarin - had of course somehow managed to make them dirty bombs.


    So naturally Justin suspected magic had a hand in it. Taking over nuclear submarines that quickly and efficiently was one thing. Somehow having the launch codes or getting them from the few people that did - was theoretically possible - with the right people or resources.


    Hell, give him some planning time and he could do it - easy.


    Managing in less than thirty minutes, to turn those nukes into dirty ones, and still launch them on time, all under water, without anyone aware of anything going on - was literally impossible.


    Unless magic was involved.


    "Hammer, Bolivar Trask, where is he?" Fury said promptly, not even bothering to pay lip service to the idea he was going to entertain Justin''s comments.


    Justin sighed, leaning back against the wall, cell phone to his ear, as he overlooked the tableau in front of him. "Last I heard, he was in Washington, creating a vast amount of headaches for me. Why?"


    There was silence on the other line for several moments, "Don''t play games with me, Hammer, do you have him!?" Fury asked snappishly, "He pulled the rails off your mutant hugging endeavors and the day after - he goes missing, it''s not hard to figure out." His voice hardened, snapping out like steel jaws as he growled out, "He was in protective custody of SHIELD agents, where are my agents, Hammer¡­?"


    Justin chuckled dryly, eyes flashing with satisfaction, as he overlooked the metal chair bolted to the floor, the insensinate and bloody Bolivar Trask tied to it. "One little politician has hardly stopped the movement, Fury, although I find it interesting that this task has fallen to you? A rookie congressman more important to SHIELD than someone capable of nuking not only Wakanda, but thousands of US servicemen?"


    He didn''t bother to mention the agents. They were probably HYDRA anyway, not a great loss.


    The fact of the matter was clear. Fury was on his way out. Not even Justin could help that now. The recent intelligence failures were of an epic proportion that no amount of favors or wishes could scrub away.


    Fury was only still the head of SHIELD because the World Security Council couldn''t agree on a successor. This time Justin wasn''t inclined to help him out, the failure was just too damn big, and it would cost him too much just to ensure Fury was around to fuck up more.


    It had only been a day and a half give or take a few hours, they''d probably have him out by the weekend for the purpose to be seen doing something to the member nations who financed SHIELD. Fury''s preferred successors, Coulson and Hill, were out of the running due to their connection to the man.


    Which all made it that much odder that the man was focusing on Trask of all people. "Did I hit a nerve, former director?" Justin said with only a hint of mocking in his tone - when no answer was immediately forthcoming.


    Only through plenty of practice over the last two years, did he manage to keep his anger in check, hiding it through a thin veneer of disdain and mockery.


    He couldn''t help but feel Wakanda was somewhat of a personal failure of his. Even as he knew that for all of his power - he still had no idea who was responsible.


    He did blame Fury, because these kinds of things were his job. And he wasted his time following him and Stark around, and now apparently Trask. Personal projects that dealt with his pride, instead of what was best for the world, in Justin''s opinion.


    "As long as I still have my post, I will do my job, Hammer. You may be on the council, but it doesn''t put you above the law." Fury said slowly, with the same kind of calm forcefulness he was known for.


    He was a lot better than Justin at hiding his anger, Justin thought with some amusement. "Doesn''t it though?" He answered back, just messing with him at this point.


    "Hammer¡­ This isn''t the stage to start playing at being a comedian, you''re still not Tony Stark." Fury shot back, the other man doing him the favor of not hiding his distaste.


    Heh, not going to go into a rage at a comparison, Fury, you''ve lost your touch - why not send Natashalie again? Seems to be your go to¡­ Justin thought, before replying, "Whatever you say, former Director Fury¡­ I am still way too busy to bother with the tiny congressman, whatever that is about." Justin lied easily, moving away from the wall, stepping up to the tied up and gagged man. "If you need any references for your next job, don''t call." And without further ado, he hung up.


    "Was that wise¡­ Sir." Elena asked politely, "Tied to the structure of SHIELD he is your subordinate, loose, he is possibly an enemy."


    Justin scoffed, putting his phone away, "He was always going to be an enemy. Fury is the type to execute Jesus Christ himself - because he''d upend the status quo too much if he came back. I''ve only gotten started, he was always going to be a pain in my ass."


    At the level Justin was operating at now, Fury wasn''t much of a threat - especially with less resources, for all that it would make him harder to find. And before he became one, he''d be taken care of.


    If anything had been made clear lately, it was the fact that he couldn''t keep leaving enemies at his back, no matter how small.


    It would be time to clean house, while solidifying his hold on the world.


    Elena straightened, a hard look coming to her eyes, "Want me to ensure he is¡­ Taken care of?" She asked, sounding almost eager.


    If she was a puppy he could imagine a tail wagging right now, just begging for him to let her off the leash.


    Justin eyed her thoughtfully, "Nothing for now." He murmured, watching her go back to Trask, a harsh slap resounding in the empty warehouse, as she woke Trask up the expedient way, to continue their ''discussion''.


    He was¡­ Beginning to wonder.


    She''d been supernaturally skilled in switching from a sales rep position to his personal assistant. And he''d given her a lot of leeway for her breadth of knowledge. Too much leeway really, trusting in Domino''s powers to an extent that might have been excessive.


    Something to look out for in the future.


    Being an extremely skilled interrogator and a torture expert¡­ Stretched everything beyond belief in regards to Elena. Advocating for, and almost sounding like she was volunteering - for the task of assassinating the Director of SHIELD, was just¡­


    He had to face the possibility he''d hired a Black Widow or an equivalent. Someone who''d gotten past Domino''s screening, and had been slavishly loyal, which just made him scratch his head at the whole situation.


    He sighed, ignoring Trasks screams as he once again attempted to avoid revealing his backers, the man desperately wanted to lose his other testicle it seemed. It was possible he simply didn''t know, but they''d find out¡­


    He really hoped the ''prairie oyster'' Elena fried and then sat down to eat in front of Trask - had all been a psychological ploy, and that she hadn''t actually¡­


    He shuddered, walking over to where Domino stood, her power as always the extra ingredient involved in making everything go as planned. She''d been able to tell Elena exactly where to do damage for the ''best'' effect. Or the luckiest set of circumstances to get him to talk.


    He lowered his voice, as he came to stand next to her, "Your power¡­ It''s not seeing a threat from Elena?" He asked, sliding his eyes to his personal assistant, admiring her backside even as she put some force into her cheerful interrogation, the crack of a bone heard soon after, followed by an inhuman screech.


    Domino shook her head, "Not even a little, as far as I can tell she has no bad intentions at all, probably how she slipped through¡­" She grimaced slightly, "Sorry boss." She allowed, looking slightly guilty.


    Justin shook his head, "You''re not omnipotent, If she has no ill will, there was nothing you could sniff out." He tilted his head slightly in Elena''s direction, as she sadistically broke Bolivar Trask down in front of them. Neither of them flinched at the screaming and begging, "You noticed it too then." He murmured.


    Domino gave him a dry look, her face slightly green, "Hard not to notice after all this. I don''t care how competitive the sales business is - this isn''t part of their training. That whole thing with eating a bull''s ball in front of him after cutting his off¡­"


    Justin let out a breath of relief, "So it was a bull''s testicle after all." Thank god¡­ Although that''s a pretty small bull then, all things considered¡­


    Domino glanced at him, her grimace deepening, "I don''t know, but that''s what I''m telling myself, please don''t ruin it."


    They stood in silence, contemplating where and how Elena had even had access to a bull or butcher around here¡­ Before both of them dropped it and moved on.


    For their sanity if nothing else.


    Justin really had a type it seemed. Scary/crazy women¡­


    "You want me to¡­" Domino asked reluctantly, fingering one of her guns, her eyes on Elena.


    Justin shook his head. "I''ll deal with it. Tonight. Keep available just in case."


    "Right." Domino said, looking very unenthusiastic.


    Justin could understand the feeling, he''d be very upset if he was forced to put Elena down¡­


    He had hope¡­


    She didn''t twinge Domino''s power. So she hopefully had a good reason for being here.


    And she wasn''t spying on him, because she''d had access to an incredible amount of illegal dealings of his - and none of it was getting out.


    And the legal dealings were almost worse, with how much she knew about the inner workings of his empire.


    He watched her work, sighing internally.


    At least her being so angry and hateful with Trask for him inconveniencing me, angry enough to blow her cover - was a good sign.


    <hr>


    In the end, Trask broke.


    Because the truth was, no matter how some movies may portray it at times about standing up against torture - everyone breaks in the end.


    Unfortunately, Trask was backed anonymously for the most part, with funds, assistance and favors. As well, those anonymous supporters fed him help from various politicians - those were not anonymous thankfully.


    Justin would now own several Senators, a few more newly elected congressmen - including the newly elected speaker, and the Director of the CIA. So Trask hadn''t been entirely useless.


    Not that the CIA director would be entirely useful, as like Fury, he''d probably be a casualty of recent events. However he might know more about Trasks backers.


    There came a time in someone''s life when you just knew you were a supervillain, Justin thought. Arranging the eventual kidnapping of the Director of the CIA, for when he became the former Director, was one such time.


    Odds were he had a little more information than Trask did.


    "Pity he had no more information on the friends of humanity." He grumbled to Elena and Domino, as they watched Trask recover slightly under the effect of Panacea.


    They couldn''t have him die quite yet.


    "He seemed pretty sure they were a spontaneous group created by his rallying cry." Elena pointed out, rolling her eyes, uncaring about the flecks of blood in her hair.


    If anything she seemed supernaturally relaxed, an ease to her body that wasn''t there before, like she''d slipped into a better fitting skin.


    Domino smirked, "Yes, all spontaneously popping up all over America within a day, truly a miracle worker he is." She played along mockingly, making fun of the man, who for all his obvious intelligence - was an absolute ignoramus.


    That press conference, calling attention to him, when Justin hadn''t even known who he was. A completely moronic move, for all the headaches it created.


    "What they are, is a huge pain in my ass." Justin said, eyeing Trask with distaste, almost wanting to go give him a few licks himself. "You can''t use PR to change the minds of hillbilly idiots, they''re too busy fucking their cousins to watch the news."


    Domino let out a snort, visibly amused, "Say it how you really feel, boss!"


    Justin just snorted, refusing to say anything more on the matter.


    He''d of course immediately financed a huge media push to fire back at all the stupidity that spilled out due to Trasks words.


    Unfortunately he didn''t yet control the internet or social media - so it spread everywhere anyway.


    Fortunately, it seemed only those already racist, seemed to be picking up on it - everyone else willing to give the benefit of doubt to Hammer industries and the government.


    Thanks to his efforts in Africa, the entire leadership, even the tyrants, had loudly and vehemently denied Trasks point of view, expounding on how much Metahumans were doing for their countries.


    Considering Africa was the site of three nuclear strikes attributed to Magneto, their denial of such, struck a chord with those more intelligent then the unwashed masses.


    Magneto had yet to respond¡­


    Justin really hoped he could talk sense into the man. He''d already talked to Xavier, who''d admitted Magneto had completely gone to ground, fallen out of touch.


    So no help would be forthcoming from the X-Men who were turtling up and trying to avoid getting into any situation that could inflame the PR war, Justin couldn''t say he was surprised, at all.


    Heroes were only ever useful once they hit the endgame, when everything was on fire and someone needed to fight to the death for liberty and justice and all that crock.


    Stopping the catastrophe?


    That was not hero work.


    "Domino, call Magneto''s people, tell them we want Phantazia back now, and we''re willing to offer them a sweetener¡­" He eyed Trask, about to sentence him to a very messy end.


    Part of him wanted to dose the man with the mind control serum, set him to programming his AI, finally get that off the ground. But even mind controlled¡­ He wasn''t sure he could trust any man who''d been involved in the kind of things he''d revealed during his interrogation.


    A deal with Magneto would serve better, he''d get Eileen back, so he could figure out what the fuck was going on there - and Magneto might be satisfied with Trask as an offering, and not end up doing something foolish.


    Besides¡­ Sunil had been contacted in Cairo by a Metahuman named Forge that had applied for Hammer Industries due to wanting access to their resources. Especially Vibranium.


    He might make for a good stand-in to assist with the AI, Justin had not yet had the time to investigate or speak with the man himself what with recent events.


    Elena frowned, looking at him curiously, "You don''t want me to¡­?" She asked, before looking between him and Domino, her brow furrowed.


    Justin shook his head, "Domino''s luck might push this thing through, she''ll head this one up." He lied, because he didn''t have any better explanation for why he''d delegate this away from his personal assistant.


    Elena seemed to accept that explanation, nodding her head thoughtfully.


    Justin would need to confront her soon.


    Just then, once again, his phone rang. Considering how few people could actually reach him directly like this, he likely couldn''t just ignore it.


    He pulled his phone out, noting the caller ID, and again, he could hardly refuse to answer. Well he could, but that would be an entirely different kind of hassle.


    "Ellis." He said shortly, not at all happy about the fact Trask had seen the president, and Ellis hadn''t informed him about his crazy ideas.


    It was the one thing the tiny man had said throughout his entire interrogation that had actually discomfited Justin.


    The sentinel project.


    Ellis had flat out refused to support such a thing through his office, but it didn''t mean someone else wasn''t supporting it.


    And again, he hadn''t told Justin.


    Trask wasn''t a leader in this whole venture. He was the patsy. Someone competent enough he could possibly do it, someone that would take the fall, if it was discovered.


    Justin had a feeling that Trask wasn''t really supposed to hold that press conference, for all his bluster that it was part of a masterplan.


    "Justin, we''re going to have to move up the announcement." Ellis said swiftly, not bothering to pussyfoot around.


    It was at least a good part of their business relationship, neither man held any illusions about the other, and could just skip past the tedious pleasantries.


    Justin grimaced, not at all pleased by further bad news. "By how much, he isn''t ready yet¡­"


    He''d also need to work out something with Pierce, before he took that step.


    Or he''d have HYDRA assassin''s up to his eyebrows.


    With whatever the hell was nuking people, HYDRA was a necessary evil at the moment. They were more cooperative than SHIELD for one. Although that might end up meaning the same thing, with Fury gone shortly.


    "End of the month, at the latest." Ellis said, sounding stressed, "We need to be seen to be doing something. Your team will give the public the idea that they''re protected."


    Justin''s team already did exist. People knew about them. But there was a vast difference between that, and a team nominally under the government, with the lead figure they had - if they could get it to work.


    It was a beacon of hope. Again, if it worked.


    "I''ll see what I can do, but you owe me again, Ellis¡­" He said, never hesitant to extract something out of the man, even for something he was going to do anyway, just not so early. "I want you to push the EU, threaten to sink trade deals if my patents don''t get internationally recognized as is."


    Ellis hesitated, but Justin knew he''d have no choice in the end. That was the problem when you sold out, you couldn''t ever stop selling out.


    "I can''t do anything about China, you know how they are with this stuff." He warned, wavering.


    Justin knew all too well. The Chinese were the most resistant to his companies so far. Even though they did accept his arc reactors, for now. Likely only due to not wanting to fall behind the rest of the world while they tried to crack the process.


    The EU was refusing to allow his patents to work in the same way as Ellis had pushed through in the states. Because Justin didn''t actually reveal the process in his application - because no one was afraid to raid the patent office of any country, so it was hilariously ridiculous to actually hand over any specs.


    He was already pushing in through Britain, bypassing a lot of EU regulations in a way to force them to accept it - or face Britain leaving if they were punished for going against the whole.


    He''d add the US economy to that pressure if it was what it took.


    As for China¡­ He''d have to negotiate with the Mandarin. Something which he was not looking forward to.


    "Leave China to me, just push Brussels, get them to accept, add the trade deals of the United States of America to the pressure they''re already facing of me pulling Panacea clinics out in protest - and they''ll fold." Justin said snappishly, before sighing, pinching the bridge of his nose, "Sorry, Ellis, recent events have not allowed a decent amount of sleep..."


    As much as he owned the man, plenty of people were capable of fucking you over out of spite, even if it sunk them. He didn''t need to aggravate an already tenuous relationship.


    Because what President enjoyed knowing they only got to sit in their office because Justin allowed it?


    "I know the feeling¡­" Ellis replied dryly, before letting out a deep sigh, "I''ll work on the Europeans, but Justin, we need to get this done by the end of the month."


    "End of the month it is." Justin replied, mentally rearranging a lot of plans.


    People would have utopia within a decade or two, if they''d just shut up and get out of his way.


    "I have to go, I''ll talk to you later." Ellis said, Justin murmuring a goodbye, before hanging up, leaning his head back. "Fuck." He swore with feeling.


    Just what he needed.


    "When it rains it pours." Domino offered supportingly, bumping his shoulder slightly, "You''ve got this boss, no problem."


    "No one''s going to get in your way." Elena agreed, the look in her eyes seemed to suggest she''d happily remove such obstacles.


    "Thank you for your support." He replied dryly, before he nodded at Trask, "Get him set up for transport."


    He had several calls to make, he needed that perfected Extremis/super soldier blend yesterday.


    A quick email to Sunil sent through his mind connection to his glasses, ensured he''d divert Frank and Brock to their new assignment as well, they needed to move up the schedule.


    He opened his phone, dialing the number he needed, waiting impatiently as he watched Domino and Elena sedate and secure Trask.


    "What?" Maya Hansen replied harshly, sounding extremely annoyed to be interrupted.


    "Dr. Hansen, we need him ready by the end of the month." Justin said, already internally wincing.


    "Is this a practical joke, Mister Hammer? It''s not a very funny one." She replied immediately, her voice acidic.


    "Timetable has moved up." He said, uncaring about her attitude, he was pretty annoyed with it as well, even if he could see Ellis'' point.


    The people needed their bread and circuses to get over the fact someone could apparently wipe out New York or Washington whenever they damned pleased. The fact they''d chosen not to, didn''t mean they couldn''t.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    The whole world was painfully aware of that open threat. Especially as no one knew who the hell was threatening them.


    As it was, every nuclear submarine in the world was effectively grounded. Not that they could really tell if that was being followed through with to the full extent.


    "There are limits to my abilities." Hansen hissed over the line, sounding as angry as he''d ever heard her.


    "You have cracked the super soldier serum, correct?" Justin talked over her protests. The benefits of being the boss, was that he could request the impossible whenever he damn well pleased.


    Although the blend between the two serums wasn''t there yet, having Isaiah Bradley as a test subject, with the likes of Nagel, Hansen and Cho working at it - had provided some results.


    "Yes, you know that already." Hansen replied tersely, practically emoting over the phone, why are you wasting my time?


    Justin had a time limit now to get things to turn out ideal, and to make an omelet¡­ You had to crack some eggs, "Use the discretionary funds, get some homeless people, make them super, then harvest them until you get the mix right." He paused, thinking it over, "Might as well use up Bradley as well, we have no need for him."


    The testing was slow going as they didn''t have a large amount of super soldiers to pump full of Extremis, so they had to test small samples in a lab, perfecting the process step by step.


    With a few hundred people, they could just blow them up until they found something that worked. Not exactly proper science, but who cared, if it worked.


    He''d sacrifice thousands if he could get it to work faster.


    Hansen made a pleased noise, "That might give us enough data to succeed." She acknowledged, she hesitated briefly, before powering on, "What about doctor Cho?"


    "What about her?" Justin asked warily. What has she done now?


    He was well aware that she was behind the Hammer cult slowly growing online.


    At least that part of her craziness was at least somewhat amusing. He could get behind people worshiping him.


    Hansen sighed, "You''ve kept her apart from the more¡­ excessive methods so far. Do I sequester her in her lab?"


    Justin thought it over, weighing the pros and cons. "Let her see it all. If she is as crazy loyal as she claims, she won''t bat an eye, if she isn''t¡­ Well at least I''ll know."


    Would be a pity to lose her though¡­


    "I''m counting on you Maya." He finished with, knowing he was putting a lot of pressure on her team with this.


    They could do this without Bucky if necessary.


    But it wouldn''t have the same effect.


    "As you always are, Mister Hammer." She answered dryly.


    That''s probably fair, he thought, hanging up.


    <hr>


    New York, Hilton Hotel.


    Later that evening, as they gathered in his temporary office to discuss the day''s events, Justin decided it was time to address the elephant in the room.


    Just to be on the safe side of course, he had Domino standing next to him where he sat by his desk, as an added precaution, she had a tranquilizer gun with the Extremis nullifier formula loaded.


    It was one of the best kept secrets in the company, as Justin didn''t want there to be any chance anyone could nullify him. The formula only existed in Hansen''s head, and in one notebook, that Justin had protected harsher than the mind control serum.


    Hansen would only produce a vial of the nullification serum on his personal face to face request. Never by call, email, or other means.


    Domino was the only person that even knew about it otherwise, because she was the best means of delivery.


    "Elena," he began, his tone neutral yet firm, "I need to talk to you."


    She looked up from her tablet, her expression unreadable. "Of course, sir. What is it?"


    Justin leaned forward, his gaze steady, even as he wondered. "I''ve noticed some inconsistencies in your background and behavior. I need to know who you really are and what your intentions are."


    Who is the woman I let closer than almost anyone else? Who are you?


    Elena''s mask slipped for a moment, surprise flickering across her features before she quickly regained her composure. "I am completely loyal to you and your cause sir. My past may be... complicated, but I am here to serve you, never doubt that."


    Justin raised an eyebrow. "Complicated how?"


    Elena hesitated briefly, her gaze flickering away for a moment before she met his eyes again. "I''ve had my share of... Difficult experiences, but I''ve put that behind me. I''m fully committed to your vision for Hammer Industries and the world." Her insistent tone seemed sincere, but she was also previcerating.


    Justin studied her carefully, weighing her words. He couldn''t deny the effectiveness of her skills, but he couldn''t ignore his gut feeling either, and he wanted a clear and direct answer, now.


    "Look, Elena," He said finally, leaning back in his chair, "I appreciate your dedication, but I need transparency from everyone on my team, now''s the time to come clean."


    Unsaid was the threat of what would happen if she lied.


    Elena smiled ruefully, "Would you believe me if I told you I was planning on telling you soon anyway?"


    Domino rolled her eyes, "Easy to say now, Elena." She spoke the words Justin was thinking.


    She cocked her head, a sad smile on her face, "I was a Black Widow, I''m well aware that I risked discovery the second I began my interrogation of Trask." She admitted, "I guess I just wanted to come clean, but couldn''t find the words¡­"


    "A poor excuse for not coming clean immediately." Justin said, with a measure of disappointment in his voice, "Why did you infiltrate my business, Widow?"


    Elena winced, looking almost physically hurt at the new moniker. "I guess I was¡­ Afraid." She admitted, shrinking in on herself slightly, her pretty eyes more expressive than ever before, "I found my time here amazing, and¡­ I didn''t want to lose yo-it, I didn''t want to lose my position." She slowly put her hands in her lap, ensuring they were visible the entire time. "I was sent here to spy on you, while in a mind controlled state, the Panacea treatment cured me, and I chose to stay and help, while sending falsified reports back."


    "Mind control?" Justin asked sharply, because if someone other than him had access to that, it was not a good thing.


    Elena nodded seriously, "His name is Dreykov, and he is in charge of the Red Room, a facility that trains Black Widows, and acts as mission control for a little over a hundred of my sisters."


    Justin blanched, looking horrified, "There''s over a hundred Black Widows!?" Then his mind caught on to the major issue with that, above the already real problem, "There''s a hundred mind controlled Black Widows?"


    Elena looked down into her lap, "I¡­ I was trying to think of a way to deliver them to you, to make them your hidden dagger in the dark." She looked up, unshed tears in her eyes, "I promise I''m loyal!" She swore.


    Justin ran a hand through his hair, this was more than he was bargaining for. He''d thought he was dealing with one Black Widow. A defunct program that had a couple survivors running around. Not a fully operational super women initiative.


    "Are they hot?" Domino asked casually, leaning back against the wall behind Justin.


    "Domino¡­" Justin groaned, putting his face in his hands.


    Elena quirked a small grin, her face lighting up. "Very, they''re flexible too, very eager to please."  She looks way too excited about revealing that.


    "You two¡­" Justin said without heat.


    Domino shrugged, lightly slapping him over the back of his head, ignoring his look, "I say it like it is boss, you''re ten times more likely to do this if they''re hot, don''t even deny it."


    "We''re not getting into anything about a Black Widow army right now, we''re focusing on the here and now¡­" Justin said, his gaze finding Elena''s, his lips pursed, "I''ve spent the day going through everything you''ve done since you started¡­ I can''t find a single thing to say you''ve been working against me."


    "I haven''t." She swore, her facial expression pleading for him to believe her.


    "I''m¡­ Inclined to believe you. But I can''t just trust you, you''ve hidden this from me, what else might you have hidden?" Justin said, watching her carefully.


    Elena looked hopeful at even the chance of redemption, "My real name is Yelena Belova, and Natasha is my sister¡­" She nodded her head as Justin gaped openly at her, "Yes, that Natasha, we were raised together."


    Justin couldn''t quite wrap his mind around it, so he focused on the lesser thing in that cluster fuck of a reveal, "Your name is Yelena and you chose Elena as your cover name?"


    Domino was smirking, hiding a snort behind her hand, even as Yelena looked rueful again, "I was mind controlled back then, my handler chose my alias." She defended herself with.


    "Sure, sure." Domino teased, her smile turning more genuine at the way Yelena lit up, eyes almost sparkling as she realized Domino was going to treat her the same way.


    Justin realized he should probably punish her, or something. But with the circumstances laid out, and his investigation finding absolutely nothing wrong. It was hard to blame her too badly.


    Plus she was apparently his access key to a Black Widow army, so he couldn''t alienate her.


    In the end the decision was easy. He honestly liked her too much to go at her too hard. She''d been a loyal servant this entire time, and he wasn''t a hero with their black and white views.


    He could understand why she wouldn''t rock the boat by immediately revealing her status when she was hired and cured. He could understand why she would hesitate.


    He didn''t like it.


    It meant he''d need to keep an eye on her irregardless, to ensure this hadn''t all been a ploy as well.


    But he had a feeling she was being honest. Or maybe that was just his dick talking.


    Because again, he really liked Ele-Yelena in about every way that mattered.


    He sighed, giving her a half smile, "You''re forgiven, Yelena, I can understand your reasoning, but this is not forgotten." He warned.


    Yelena smiled brilliantly, even as she barely held back a sob of relief, and before Justin or Domino could react, she literally tossed herself forward, sliding over his desk like an Olympic athlete jumping hurdles, landing in his lap, straddling him, her soft full lips finding his as she thanked him enthusiastically for his forgiveness.


    "Your security clearance will have to be downgraded for a bit." Justin managed to breathe out.


    "Uh-huh." Yelena said, before locking lips with him again, so he lost his trail of thoughts.


    When he was able to get air again, he continued, "Also no vacation this year, you''ve been bad and shouldn''t be rewarded!"


    "Mhmm, very bad." She mumbled, before her arms locked around his head as she went back to kissing him, her tongue sliding in-between his lips.


    "Domino¡­ I forgot what I was saying." Justin complained in a husky voice as Yelena let him go yet again, her own breath coming in quick gasps, her lips slightly swollen.


    "I figured it was some variation of take off your clothes and get ready for a spanking." Domino replied dryly. "I have a paddle if you need one." She offered.


    Both him and Yelena stared at her, Justin managing to get out the question, "Why on earth do you carry around a paddle?"


    Domino''s smirk was entirely too pleased, even as her eyes twinkled, "I do work for you. Figured I''d need it one day."


    Justin just sighed, "I''m surrounded by incorrigible women."


    They both snorted simultaneously.


    "You love it, boss!"


    "You''d be bored otherwise, Dusha Moya¡­"


    He probably would be¡­


    Yelena ground down on him, "Can I beg for forgiveness now?" She said with a spark of mischief and heat in her eyes.


    ¡­


    Justin suddenly remembered another reason why he needed to keep Yelena around.


    <hr>


    Next day, New York Blacksite.


    Bucky frowned as the routine was broken up, the locks of his cell cycling, voices talking outside, new voices.


    Silently he prepared himself for the chance of violence, wondering if HYDRA had finally found him.


    Except he couldn''t fathom why they would want to enter his cell, instead of utilizing the speaker system to put him under control again.


    Two men walked in as soon as the locks disengaged, Bucky immediately clocked them as military, special forces in all likelihood, with the way they moved and the way they assessed him, as he was them.


    The taller one smirked, giving a small wave, "Hey, Bucky right? I''m Brock Rumlow, my silent shadow here is Frank Castle, don''t worry if he doesn''t talk much." He put a hand next to his mouth, "He''s shy." He stage whispered.


    The aforementioned Frank, had a look on his face that Bucky remembered from the war. A lot of people that had never dealt with Steve before got that look on their face. Polite disbelief, or a just overall done look, like they didn''t want to be part of the conversation any longer.


    It was hard to argue with Steve, as many had found out.


    Maybe this Brock fella was the same kind of unstoppable force?


    He had mixed feelings on getting some of his memories back, because most of them just weren''t very good. Even the ones with Steve, still had the war.


    At least he knew they were his. He wasn''t sure he wanted the memories of what he''d done for all these years to fully come to the fore.


    "Just putting it out there, if at anytime you feel the need to punch Brock, I won''t say anything to anyone." Frank said in a deadpan voice, his face expressionless.


    "He''s a super soldier, what the hell, man?" Brock complained, but it lacked any heat, Bucky noted.


    Best friend types, he guessed, eyeing them both, not sure why they were here.


    "You heal." Frank replied back, before sitting down in one of the chairs that had been added to his cell that morning.


    At least Bucky had a reason for why now. But not the entire reason why, so he went ahead and asked. "Why?"


    Brock also sat down, making himself comfortable, while Frank looked like he was at parade rest, only sitting. "Why what?" He asked, an easy grin on his face.


    Which turned to a grimace as Frank punched him on the shoulder. Bucky was getting some real flashbacks to the howling commandos due to these guys.


    "Let me talk." Frank said harshly, punching Brock in the shoulder again, he turned to Bucky, his expression softening slightly, "I''ll level with you, because if I was in your situation, I wouldn''t want any bullshit." He said frankly. "Our boss wants you on the team, and figured we could at least get to know each other, all military types that we are."


    Bucky frowned, not sure what he felt about Justin Hammer and his team either. It seemed more like Steve''s thing¡­ But then he''d said that without Steve, things were getting bad.


    But Bucky couldn''t be Steve, not before. Definitely not now. Not after¡­


    "Absolutely no pressure from us, don''t worry about it either way." Frank continued, "You can just think of us as some comrades sharing war stories, alright?"


    Brock leaned forward eagerly, hands on his knees, "So, I''ll share my embarassing CO stories if you share yours." He said with a wide grin.


    Frank scoffed, crossing his bulky arms, cocking his head Brock''s way, "I''ll tell you embarassing stories about him, trust me, there''s enough of them."


    Bucky eyed the two men wearing military fatigues, they weren''t scientists, who he had to admit was draining his last nerve.


    So why not?


    Not like he had anything to lose really.


    "This one time, me and Steve had snuck into commander Phillips office - "


    <hr>


    The Pentagon,


    Justin slowly walked through the Pentagon, his steps purposeful despite the chaos around him. The once pristine corridors were still a maze of scaffolding in places, with workers scrambling to repair the damage left by the terrorist attack months ago. The air was thick with the scent of dust and concrete, punctuated by the sound of hammers and power tools echoing off the walls.


    What a security nightmare, Justin thought, glad to not have to deal with construction workers doing their business a step away from where some of the most far reaching decisions in America are made.


    Figures that they would still be repairing things, the government did always take its sweet time with simple things, overcomplicating something so simple as fixing walls.


    As he made his way through the bustling corridors, Justin couldn''t help but feel a sense of unease at recent events and his part in it. The Pentagon, the symbol of American military might, had been violated, and the scars of the attack were still visible. It was a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the world that he couldn''t always predict, and the constant threat of terrorism that loomed over every nation.


    Or more importantly, over him.


    In a world where a Metahuman could suddenly do anything from rain down asteroids on you to mind control you - the threat was very real at all times - and ultimately, as they''d found out in Wakanda, almost impossible to fully predict.


    His escort was a group of stern-faced military security personnel that led him through the maze of construction, their movements efficient and precise. Despite the chaos and dust surrounding them, they maintained a vigilant watch, their eyes scanning for any signs of trouble.


    The fact it was necessary inside the Pentagon, said something about how the world had changed.


    Justin couldn''t help but feel a sense of irony as he passed by some of the still damaged sections of the building. (How had they not repaired this all yet?) Here he was, a man who had profited from the chaos and destruction brought on by war, called on no doubt, to provide the solution.


    More chaos and destruction.


    As humans, we are if nothing else, utterly predictable when facing a threat, he thought. Yelena and Domino both trailing him, Justin not willing to let Yelena out of his sight for now, they still had a lot to talk about, despite the revelations.


    This meeting was coming at an inopportune time for him if only for that reason, especially as Ross had the nerve to summon him!


    Him!?


    Like he was one of his military lackeys.


    Ross was definitely getting too big for his britches lately, Justin would have to take care of that too¡­


    As they reached the conference room, it was for that reason, amongst some others, that he insisted Yelena and Domino join him inside, instead of taking up spots outside the door.


    It took several minutes, and a phone call to Ross himself. (Ridiculous, the man was right in there!) But eventually it was sorted, Justin allowed inside with his escorts, almost freezing immediately upon entering, because of the tableau he saw.


    The Pentagon conference room was spacious and imposing, with a long table dominating the center of the room. The walls were lined with screens displaying real-time data and maps, while the lighting was dim, adding to the serious atmosphere of the place.


    At the head of the table sat Thaddeus ''Thunderbolt'' Ross, the head cantankerous ass himself, his expression stern and unyielding as usual. His military uniform was impeccably pressed, and his posture radiated authority. To his right sat Norman Osborn, the CEO of Oscorp, not the man Justin wanted to see today, or ever. Osborn''s eyes gleamed with a dangerous intensity, and his fingers drummed impatiently on the table.


    The seating arrangement with Norman next to Ross, was a deliberate snub, Justin could feel it in his bones. Ross was still sore over Justin''s refusal to supply him with endless power armors.


    Opposite Osborn was the only man Justin could possibly want to see even less than Norman Osborn. It was Tony Stark in the flesh, and Justin darkly noted that he had Pepper with him, wondering if he had to argue for the addition. Norman, not surprisingly had no additional members inside, he wasn''t exactly well loved, even by his own.


    Quite frankly, reading between the lines on some of the reports that crossed Justin''s inbox, he could amend that to - especially by his own.


    Tony lounged casually in his chair of course, Pepper seated behind him. A smirk was playing on his lips as he surveyed the room with a mixture of amusement and boredom. Eyes only flickering Justin''s way briefly.


    Justin wanted to pick him up and shake him, why aren''t you Iron Man yet, you prick!?


    Justin walked forward, and took his seat,Yelena and Domino coming to stand behind him. His expression was composed, but his mind was racing with thoughts and calculations. He took in the sight before him, his gaze lingering on each of the men seated at the table. This is¡­ Unexpected, he thought, wondering what Ross thought he could achieve with this disaster in the making.


    "Well, well, well," Tony drawled, his eyes glinting mischievously as he addressed Justin. "Look who decided to grace us with his presence. Late as always, I see."


    Look who''s talking¡­


    Justin shot Tony a pointed look, his lips curling into a sardonic smile. "Better late than never, Stark. At least I have better things to do than attend these tedious meetings." Unlike you¡­


    Tony''s eyes hardened briefly, but Pepper put a hand on his shoulder, stopping any response.


    Ross cleared his throat, his gaze flickering between the three men before him. "Let''s cut to the chase," He said gruffly. "We have a situation on our hands, and we need to address it immediately."


    Osborn leaned forward, his voice tinged with a hint of the broiling madness beneath it. Justin wondered how long they had left before he had to be put down, pondering a pre-emptive strike even as he listened to Norman spew out his frustrations. "Those nuclear submarines were just the beginning," He declared ominously. "We''re dealing with forces beyond our comprehension, and if we don''t act swiftly, the consequences will be catastrophic."


    Tony rolled his eyes theatrically. "Oh, spare us the melodrama, Osborn," He said dismissively. "We''ve faced threats before, and we always come out on top. Besides, I have a plenty of new stuff to unveil that will blow your mind."


    "But no new weapons, right?" Justin got his own shot in, sneering at Tony, "I''m sure a new perfected blow dryer will come as great comfort to our servicemen." He mocked.


    This fool was not taking the threat seriously, nuclear detonations are not a joke¡­ His eyes narrowed, as he stared down Tony Stark, wondering what exactly was going on with the man. Had Yinsen''s survival changed that much?


    Almost enough to tempt a man to fix that issue¡­


    Hmm¡­ It seemed murder was on his mind quite often in the last 48 hours, perhaps he was developing a habit?


    "Enough," Ross barked, silencing the room with his authoritative tone - or perhaps mostly achieved though the fact no one in this room was interested in dragging this out too long. "We need to focus on solutions, not bickering. Osborn, what do you have for me?"


    Norman straightened, a sly smirk blooming onto his face. "I have quite a few drones already made, they can be useful¡­" He said confidently. "With the radioactive fallout, you need my drones to get m-" He coughed suddenly, "Your Vibranium, out of the ground."


    Ross nodded approvingly, while Tony and Justin exchanged skeptical glances, for once on the same page - no one could trust Norman Osborn to that extent. But deep down, they all knew that Norman was right about the method at least, sending humans into Wakanda right now would be costlier.


    Tony piped in, and for once Justin let him, if he had to pick who got Vibranium squirreled away between the two of them - it wasn''t even a choice.


    Tony for all his foibles, was not an active threat to the planet.


    "Stark industries are in the middle of investing heavily into robotics, drones wouldn''t be a problem." He said dismissively, waving a hand contemptuously towards Norman, "And you could trust us to deliver the Vibranium, all of it, to where it is supposed to go."


    "Are you suggesting something, Stark?" Norman growled out, eyes twitching rapidly.


    "I''m outright stating." Tony said smugly, "You''re like the knockoffs knockoff," He nodded at Justin, who barely withheld a grimace, "Get on our level before you try to sit at the big boys table."


    Justin hated doing it. He really did. But he interjected himself into the argument. On Tony''s side. "I have¡­ Some great success in drone vehicles." He admitted, almost dragging it out, "If Stark industries could supply the ''workforce'' Hammer industries could supply the drone excavators and trucks to transport the fruit of their labor."


    Tony looked almost as stricken as Justin, as he mulled that over. In the end, it was obvious however, with him glancing at Norman''s enraged face to solidify his decision. And just like that, just like Justin had decided, Tony decided on the lesser evil. "Right, cooperation, that''s always been my motto." He forced out between gritted teeth.


    He might have been more believable if not for the absolutely shocked look on Pepper''s face behind him.


    "You pitiful creatures -. "Norman began, before Ross stopped him, raising a hand, his eyes gleaming with greed.


    "It''s decided then, Stark industries will provide the robotic workforce to extract something out of the soil, and Hammer industries will provide the heavy lifting and transportation aspect." Ross declared, momentarily pissing Norman Osborn off so much they could literally see veins popping on the man.


    "And Oscorp will supervise it all." He finished, grinning viciously at the two titans of industry.


    Norman''s protests died down at the same time as the others rose.


    "If you think I''ll let that hack oversee a single damn -" Tony rose up, voice raised.


    At the same time, Justin slammed his fist on the table, eyes flashing, "In no way will anything of mine be even touched by that -"


    "ENOUGH!" Ross shouted, face red, "If either of you find something wrong with this offer, I am not opposed to ensuring Oscorp gets the entirety of the contract."


    Justin grimaced, sharing a look with Tony. They couldn''t let Oscorp of all places get their mitts on the Vibranium mines. Luckily the Americans weren''t the only player in the game, a lot of people wanted their slice of the pie, and not many companies had the ability to deliver like they could. Even if they lost America, NATO, Russia and China, amongst others, were all owed their own slice of the pie - and Hammer industries was well placed to offer their services.


    Tony spoke up, not at all cowed by Ross trying to shout them down. "Yeah no, I think I''ll stick with Hammer on this one." He said flippantly, "I can''t believe I said that¡­" He added in a low mutter, that was still audible enough for everyone in the room.


    Pepper was already a pale woman, this confluence of events was making her as white as a ghost, as she stared at the back of Tony''s head, like she had no idea what she was seeing.


    "I control who gets the contract." Ross said, giving Tony a look of distaste, one he mirrored as he turned to Justin, "You can get with the program, or I''ll simply offer it to Oscorp alone."


    "That''s not how contracts get done, even in the military, Ross." Justin accused acerbically, "You''ll never push it through."


    "Is that a no, Hammer?" Ross said, unperturbed by his resistance.


    Justin was getting really tired of these moronic roadblocks that were popping up everywhere. And there was no way, come hell or high water, that he''d allow Norman fucking Osborn to mine Wakanda.


    "Fuck you Ross." He said, Tony bursting out in a loud guffaw at the action, actually applauding him.


    Justin tapped into the conference call device in the middle of the table, mentally dialing the number. Everyday he loved his glasses and implants more.


    He couldn''t wait to see if this Forge was really the mechanical genius he claimed to be, transhumanism would be an eventual possibility.


    Before Ross could let loose a tirade, a tired, recognizable voice came over the conference call, "Yes, what is it now, Ross?"


    Before Ross could get a word in, Justin smoothly slid in, you snooze you lose, Ross¡­ "Mister President, I''m here with Tony Stark, Norman Osborn and General Ross, I''m just confirming with you that General Ross has the authority to give sole access to mining and transporting Vibranium in Wakanda to Oscorp, cutting out Stark and Hammer industries."


    The smile he gave Ross, could only be called viciously smug, with a dash of condescending sneer.


    It was like the man had completely forgotten just how much clout Justin currently held.


    "...Ross¡­" The president said, sounding absolutely done. There was just a deep weariness to it that spoke of long hours and an abundance of idiots.


    "Yes, Mister President." Ross said, unable to refute Justin, because in essence he had done exactly what Justin had laid out.


    Justin took the absolute death glare he was receiving from Ross, as a job well done.


    *Refresh my memory, when did the Joint Chiefs give you permission to be sole arbiter of this?" Ellis asked, sounding almost politely curious.


    Ross continued to glare nastily at Justin, and at Tony who was still grinning widely, "Ah, you see, I was streamlining the process, Mister President. The Joint Chiefs are very busy right now." Ross said deferentially.


    "Not that busy." Ellis shot back immediately, "You''re overstepping your remit, Ross. This matter is out of your hands. What was it you were offering, Mister Hammer?"


    "I was offering a joint venture with Stark industries to supply all the necessary robotics and vehicles to perform the task, without endangering the lives of human operators." Justin said smoothly, shooting a look at Tony.


    Tony rolled his eyes, but joined in, an absolutely shit eating grin on his face as he stared at Ross''s reddening face the entire time. "That''s right, Mister President, to add to that, I don''t see why I couldn''t whip up something to help with the radiation a bit too, I''m clever like that." All delivered casually.


    Ellis'' voice was very dry as he replied back, "We are aware Mister Stark¡­" There was a small period of silence, before Ellis spoke again, "Ross, can Oscorp deliver both the manpower and transportation and I''m guessing excavation?" At Justin''s muttered acknowledgement, he continued, "As well as a potential radiation treatment?"


    Ross and Osborn both sat there, faces flushed as they could not deliver something like that, and they knew it. And while lying to customers, clients or contractors was no big deal, it became another when you were speaking with the President.


    With a brand spanking new Congress, and the whole world practically a step away from war. Ellis was likely the most powerful president in the last fifty years at the moment. Not someone you tried to pull the wool over in a situation like this.


    "From the silence I take that as a no." Ellis said with some recrimination in his voice. "Mister Hammer, if you and Mister Stark can forward me the plan I will ensure it is sent to the Joint Chiefs."


    "Mister President!" Norman broke his silence to protest, "That is not a fair bidding process!"


    Justin thought that was a funny thing to say, considering he had obviously conspired with Ross to take the whole cake for himself.


    They were both moving up on the list of people that needed to be dealt with sooner rather than later.


    "You will of course be allowed to forward your own bid, Mister Osborn." Ellis reassured the man.


    Which did nothing to soothe his, nor Ross'' frustration. Because obviously the Stark industries and Hammer industries team up was going to be picked. It was a no brainer if there ever was one.


    The meeting fizzled out soon thereafter, Ross and Osborn both leaving, throwing different levels of hissy fits.


    Justin eyed Tony across the table, a mien of distaste on his face. "I suppose¡­ We better come up with a proposal, since the president is waiting on it¡­" He said reluctantly.


    Since they''d just pulled it out of their ass when Ross dropped the surprise bomb on them - they needed literally¡­ Everything.


    Pepper stood up, sighing, "I''ll make sure we get coffee." She announced.


    Yelena watched her suspiciously, "I''ll come with you, ensure the coffee is alright." She told Pepper, making clear in no uncertain terms, that she wasn''t going to let her out of her sight.


    Domino chuckled, sliding into Ross'' chair, propping her feet up on the table, "And I''m¡­ Going to play Angry Birds." She announced, drawing a laugh out of Tony.


    "You have good people at least, no idea how they stand you though." He told Justin, stroking his facial hair like a cartoon villain.


    Justin gave him an irritated glance, "They compared me to you, and found themselves relieved to avoid all the sexual harassment." He snarked.


    Domino literally broke down laughing at that, completely ignoring the death glare Justin sent her.


    What did he say that was so funny?


    This was going to be a pain¡­


    <hr>


    As painful as it was, Justin and Tony were both very intelligent, and it didn''t take long to arrange something.


    Considering Justin had just begun playing around with drone vehicles, they''d have to switch some things around to be able to push out some for the first wave of Wakandan exploration.


    As soon as they were far away enough from the Pentagon, Justin placed a call to Sunil.


    "Yes, sir?" He answered promptly.


    Justin thought back to Osborn, and how he''d almost finagled himself sole purveyorship of Vibranium on the American side.


    He''d still probably find himself an in with one of the other countries, through bribery if nothing else. But the fact he was worming his way into the military as far as he was, was a concern.


    "Osborn, the contingency plans, set them in motion." He ordered, well aware that Fury if no one else, would immediately clock it as his action.


    It would take a few days, but Norman Osborn would find himself facing difficulties soon enough. And hopefully they''d even manage to snare the man himself.


    The world was on fire, everyone was looking outwards. SHIELD was dealing with a succession crisis. It was the perfect time for some old fashioned corporate sabotage.


    He had been keeping a close eye on Oscorp, his people marking the assets they could, some supplied by Justin himself.


    It wouldn''t make him overly popular with the people marked, but denying assets to Osborn was worth the temporary headache.


    Besides, he could offer them a better deal anyway.


    You should have just stayed in your lane, Osborn, he thought, Tony is a rival¡­


    You''re just a minor distraction at best.


    <hr>


    A few days later, New York.


    Doctor Curt Connors frowned as he walked out into the Oscorp parking lot.


    Where is everyone?


    He hadn''t been staying that late? Had he?


    "Gwen, did I accidentally keep you after hours?" He asked his intern, Gwen Stacy.


    She eyed the empty parking lot as well, biting her lip, "No Doctor Connors, if anything you finished early today." She fished her phone out of her pocket, brow furrowed as she flicked through it, her expression clearing up soon after, "There was an interdepartmental memo sent out an hour ago, telling everyone to go home early, with full pay." She looked up at him, "Is that¡­ Normal?" She asked hesitantly.


    Doctor Connors'' frown deepened. "No, it is not. Norman thinks things like sick days are an invention by the lazy to avoid work. I can''t remember anyone leaving early for the entire time I''ve worked at Oscorp."


    Gwen opened her mouth, no doubt to ask another question, when they were interrupted by a blast inside Oscorp, throwing them off their feet, glass raining down around them.


    "Gwen, are you alright?" Curt called out, crawling over to the young girl, his eyes flickering up to the giant hole in the side of the building. Osborn''s ''secret lab''¡­ Why would it¡­?


    "I''m alright, Doctor Connors." Gwen said, letting out a cough, "What is that smell¡­"


    His eyes widened as a canister rolled by him, emitting a gas of some sort, Gwen already losing consciousness as he desperately grabbed for her, slowly growing weaker, another canister rolling by.


    Before he lost the battle, he saw several men in tactical gear approaching.


    "Target acquired."


    "The girl?"


    "Witness, take her as well."


    Then it all went black.


    ¡­


    On the other side of New York, Otto Octavius was sitting down for dinner with his wife.


    He''d spent his last dime to ensure they could get a reservation at the restaurant that he knew she''d been dying to go to.


    Personally he couldn''t really care for the food, his mind was elsewhere, his research almost at the point where he could build a prototype. But he made an effort to live in the moment, for Rosie.


    He was drawn out of his introspection when the couple at the table next to them suddenly slumped over. "What?" He muttered, his mind racing as he noticed another diner suddenly collapsing. "Rosie! Don''t eat another bite!" He yelled, standing up and swiping their plates off the table, the noise drawing no notice due to the rest of the diners slowly beginning to drop off.


    Otto panicked as he saw Rosie begin to list in her seat, her eyes already closing. "ROSIE!" He grabbed her by the shoulders, giving her a shake, "Wake up!" He felt a slight grogginess now, but he powered through it, now glad he hadn''t bothered eating more than what was needed to show Rosie he was here and engaging.


    "You should have just eaten the food, tubby." A muffled voice said from behind, before he felt a syringe stabbed into him.


    "Rosie!" He roared, trying to sweep the man away, his arms sluggish and uncooperative.


    The muffled voice sighed audibly, "She''s fine, you''ll see her again after your nap, settle down."


    Otto continued his attempt to fight, but his vision was going blurry.


    Oh, he was on his knees, why was he on his knees? He couldn''t remember. He was so tired.


    So¡­ So¡­ Tired.


    Darkness¡­


    ¡­


    Max Dillon had no idea where he was exactly, except further down in the crapper than ever. His life had taken a surprise turn for the worse - something he hadn''t thought possible. He thought he''d died when he''d ended up in a vat of electric eels - but instead, he''d ended up wrapped up like a mummy, tied down and poked by Oscorp scientists.


    Those bastards had found him before he could understand what was happening to him, and had taken him.


    He scowled darkly, Norman Osborn himself had come down from his ivory tower to experiment on him, poking and prodding him, insulting him all the while.


    Max was pretty pissed that getting superpowers actually had his life get even worse than it was before.


    A test subject, instead of a hero, like Spiderman.


    He''d only recently shown up, but he was a real life hero, saving people all over New York without asking for anything in return.


    If only Spiderman knew he existed, he''d save him, and they could be best buddies, a real super team and everything.


    He blinked as he heard a cut off scream outside whatever blank room he was in now. Not that he could do anything but blink anyway, he was completely wrapped up, and isolated from anything even remotely electrical.


    He was pretty sure he must be in like the sub sub sub basement of Oscorp or something, because he''d never seen the place before, even the experimentation had taken place higher up, but there had been some sort of explosion, and he''d been brought down here.


    All the while his tormentors kept bitching about how everyone else got to go home, but they didn''t because they weren''t on the official roster.


    Weird thing to whine about for inhumane monsters, Max had thought.


    With a loud thud, the door to his confinement hit the floor, masked men in military gear walking in.


    Max was too confused to be afraid. What is going on?


    "Max Dillon. Do you want to be a hero?" The lead soldier asked.


    "Uhhh¡­ Yes?"


    "Come with us, and you''ll be adored by the entire country." He promised.


    Well¡­ It sure as shit beats being locked in the basement!


    ¡­


    Norman cackled, even as he saw Oscorp''s damage.


    He''d underestimated his enemies. He didn''t know for sure if it was Stark or Hammer yet. But whoever it was, struck immediately.


    He''d thought Hammer too cowardly to dare strike at him, and Stark too egocentric to even think of it.


    Perhaps it was both? Their unusual cooperation had struck him as directly meant to keep him down. Stark''s comment still burned in his veins.


    He''d show him a knockoff¡­.


    They wouldn''t reach the heights he''d climbed to, he thought, as he continued to cackle, floating above his building on his glider, wearing the armor for the first time. The green and purple Goblin suit felt like it belonged on him. He felt whole.


    He had a contract with the US military for drones and armor already, some damage to his building would hardly even slow him down. It was a pitiful attempt to push him down.


    He''d get his Vibranium, if not through the US, then through the sources he''d squeezed out of Klaue.


    This was a minor setback if anything.


    His hand lowered to his belt, idly playing with one of his goblin bombs - name still being workshopped.


    It would look nicer with some more fire/it''s my building!


    Fire though¡­ Think of all the pretty explosions/Maybe Stark''s buildings¡­


    Yes¡­/Yes¡­


    See him laugh at me when I/we burn everything of his down/Hammer too!


    "Hey! You know you need a license and all kinds of permits before you redecorate to this extent, right?" A voice called out.


    The Green Goblin tilted his head, watching the red and blue spandex clad fool that had climbed up his building. "Spiderboy?" He asked, flying a little closer, caressing one of his bombs.


    The vigilantes'' shoulders slumped slightly, "It''s SpiderMAN! Not spiderboy! Why can''t people get that part right?"


    "Why are you bothering me, pest?" Green Goblin growled, taking one of his bombs off his belt, his building, his responsibility to do pest control.


    Spiderman straightened up in his crouch, the odd white eyes of the costume narrowing, "What did you do with G-the people in this building?"


    He cackled, juggling the bomb in his hands, "Oh, a hero has arrived. To save Oscorp, hmm?" He couldn''t help but break out in wild unrestrained laughter, how funny!


    "No one needs to get hurt, I don''t know why you''re doing this, but we can talk it out." Spiderman said carefully.


    The Green Goblin let out another cackle, tossing the bomb over, having primed it, Spiderman having no problem webbing it and slinging it into the air, where it exploded brilliantly, bathing them in the greenish light.


    "Fetch doggy, fetch." He laughed, pulling up his entire complement of bombs, letting them drop from his fingers, falling down towards the ground.


    Spiderman immediately jumped down after them.


    Oh, such a good boy, yes you are, yes you are Spiderman!


    Him first/Stark first!


    <hr>

 Meet and Greet gone Wild.

    <hr>


    Cairo, Egypt.


    A lot had changed in Cairo, even over the course of a few months, the benefits of possessing awesome economical power, and owning your own construction company - coupled with everyone in power tripping over themselves to make him happy - which ensured things ran smoothly.


    Here in Africa at least.


    So far.


    He''d bought a full four city blocks of Cairo, solely for his own purposes, for his burgeoning African business empire. While it held some labs and such, it was majorly intended to be the nerve center of all business operations in this area of the world.


    Domino had jokingly termed it the Bakshi center when she heard.


    With the compound in Cairo sprawling across four entire city blocks, they had plenty of room to ensure it evolved to Justin''s standards. Despite being only half-completed, it dominated the skyline with its immense, unfinished structures already. The compound combined cutting-edge security measures with an Egyptian aesthetic, blending modern technology with ancient motifs - Justin refusing to change the world while sitting in a square concrete box.


    He was going to do it looking good, dammit!


    There was also the added benefit of the local population being less belligerent against the outsiders when they didn''t appear entirely foreign.


    While Metahumans was getting support from everyone in power in Africa, superstitions ran deep within certain segments of the populace. Justin knew they were keeping quiet right now, due to his efforts, but he wasn''t foolish enough to believe that would last forever.


    Human stupidity was a bet that was always safe to go all in on.


    The perimeter of the compound was encased in high sandstone walls adorned with intricate hieroglyphics and reliefs depicting scenes of pharaohs and gods, giving the compound an air of timeless authority, like it had been there all along - granted it was a sandstone finish, because they had much harder materials for a good defensive wall. Atop, and throughout these walls - were advanced security features; motion detectors, infrared cameras, and electrified fencing to make a few, all discreetly integrated to preserve the compound''s aesthetic appeal.


    Justin did not skimp on defenses simply because of aesthetics, he simply paid that much more to ensure it was integrated in a pleasing way while losing none of its effectiveness.


    The entrance to the compound was protected by a massive, vibranium-reinforced gate, flanked by imposing statues of Egyptian gods that hid the most advanced scanning tech in existence, able to both scan vehicles and all their passengers even through steel - and relay it to the guards well before the vehicle/people could even think of entering the compound.


    Guard towers covered every angle to ensure the walls were not breached or bypassed, styled to resemble ancient watchtowers but equipped with modern surveillance equipment and armed guards, providing a constant watch over the surrounding area.


    The guard towers also each guarded a hidden anti-air battery, available to take care of flying threats that their drone capabilities couldn''t handle on their own. With how much he was spending on this compound it better be nearly damn unassailable - this included extremely expensive non metal weaponry and anti air defenses to protect it from the one man capable of tearing it apart in seconds - each one worth more than 20 of its simple metal ones.


    Inside the compound, unfinished structures hinted at his grandiose plans for the area, sprawling courtyards, lush gardens, and large, colonnaded buildings echoing the grandeur of ancient temples.


    This¡­ Was the temple to Justin Hammer.


    Not that he called it that¡­ It would be distasteful.


    Now if other people chose too¡­ Well, that''s a wholly separate matter.


    Despite the incomplete construction, the defenses were all operational and formidable. Automated turrets and drone patrols ensured any threat would be swiftly neutralized, while underground bunkers and reinforced shelters provided additional layers of protection - since the people he''d have working here were not the kind he''d want to lose. The fusion of high-tech security and traditional Egyptian design created a unique compound cum fortress, blending his futuristic vision with the region''s rich historical legacy.


    He was quite proud of it, especially for how quickly it was beginning to go up, the defenses all done, even if the office buildings would likely take several months to finish, the added aesthetics slowing down the process there as it would be more complicated.


    As their armored limousine took them inside the compound, Domino peered outside, before poking her head back in, an amused smile on her face, "I''m surprised, no statues of yourself?"


    Yelena hid a smile behind her hand, as Justin huffed, "How egocentric do you think I am?" He asked her, besides, polling showed that people have an aversion to rich people building statues of themselves, he thought with annoyance.


    Domino''s eyes narrowed playfully as she stared him down, "I don''t think you want me to answer that question."


    Justin let it go, focusing on all the meetings he had ahead of him, with how busy his life was, it was easier to simply have people come to him in one or two central locations - New York was one, and Cairo was the other.


    Soon enough they arrive at the only finished building, his own, the place where he''d do business and hold meetings with both his people - and those he wanted to woo.


    As they escape the blistering sun striding into the interior of his personal office building for a few meetings, the contrast between the ongoing construction and the lavishly finished sections becomes apparent. The main entrance hall puts on a display to mark his superiority to those entering. Polished marble floors are inlaid with gold and lapis lazuli, reflecting the light from ornate chandeliers designed to resemble ancient oil lamps. The walls are adorned with vibrant murals depicting scenes from Egyptian mythology, blending seamlessly with state-of-the-art digital screens hidden behind retractable panels.


    The idea was that each office building would showcase different African countries and their history, with his own the most Egyptian of course.


    Of course, even here, there are turrets hidden behind the walls, and confoam sprayers in the ceiling. Justin would take no chances with security. All of it designed by Eileen, who better be back soon, or Justin would have to take steps.


    Further ones than the ones he already had, where he''d pre-emptively armed his people for a possible conflict with Magneto.


    Moving through the hall, they passed through an imposing set of double doors, each hand-carved to showcase the Egyptian pantheon, into a spacious atrium. This area, fully completed, has a high ceiling supported by massive columns - that mimic the style of Karnak Temple, the famous temple ruin where it''s believed creation began in Egyptian myths. Between the columns, modern glass and steel elements have been artfully integrated, providing a sleek, contemporary look that would wow visitors.


    Justin hadn''t been here since it was finished, and couldn''t help a smug smile as he looked around, Yelena and Domino seemingly thrown by the sight.


    He did give Domino a fierce look however - when she muttered under her breath about ''cultural appropriation.''


    This was Egypt, making it all Egyptian looking was just following local customs!


    The main meeting room itself was empty as they entered, it was a blend of luxury and functionality. A long dark table sat at the center of the room, surrounded by high-backed chairs. The room was illuminated by soft, ambient lighting, with spotlights highlighting various artifacts displayed in glass cases along the walls - priceless relics that added an air of culture to the more modern room.


    Justin, through Sunil, had hired Black Cat to appropriate some artifacts from the British museum so that he''d have something pretty to display in his office. It could hardly even be called stealing, since they were back in Egypt now after all, where they belonged.


    He put her on a retainer afterwards, having her infiltrate his businesses and operations when time permitted, the legal ones anyway - so she could detect security flaws that they could then fix.


    Cutting-edge technology was of course subtly embedded throughout the room - he wanted some culture and aesthetics, but he wasn''t a savage. The table was equipped with holographic projectors and built-in touchscreens, allowing for presentations and seamless communication with his global contacts. A large hidden screen could descend from the ceiling for more traditional video conferences as well.


    Or be used for villainous speeches if he ever felt the need to broadcast such.


    Despite the high-tech flair, the room retained its Egyptian flavor. Justin gleefully rubbed his hands together, knowing that anyone brought to him here would have already lost half the battle, awed by his power.


    As Justin settled, tenting his hands as a villain should in their evil boardroom, Domino walked around and examined the artifacts, pointedly not looking at him - Yelena stood by the door, her expression attentive, just waiting for the order.


    Justin smirked, "Bring me Forge." He ordered, heady with anticipation.


    It only took a few minutes to fetch him, the man having been waiting for this meeting, having personally traveled to the compound for the express purpose of gaining access to Hammer industries resources.


    Standing at just over six feet tall, he had a robust and muscular build, a testament to his military training and rugged lifestyle, Justin thought, studying him just as intensely as Forge studied him back.


    His native american heritage shone through in his face, especially in his eyes. A thin scar ran down his left cheek, the only noticeable blemish that Justin could see. Forge''s right hand was a sophisticated cybernetic prosthesis of his own design, Justin knew, having done his research on the man after he showed up out of nowhere. This arm was both a tool and a weapon, capable of transforming into various gadgets and interfaces, showcasing his mechanical ingenuity - the reason Justin wanted him.


    The fact he carefully watched both Domino and Yelena, not leaving his back to either of them - also showed a careful and clever man, to Justin''s delight.


    Not careful enough, as he''d entered into the belly of the beast, but he appreciated the little things.


    Justin stood to greet Forge, smiling charmingly "Forge, it''s a pleasure to finally meet you. I''ve heard a lot about your talents."


    Forge nodded slowly, taking a seat at the table, making sure Yelena and Domino stayed in his sight. "I''m sure you have." He said simply. "Let''s skip the pleasantries and talk about why I''m here. You have resources I need, and I have skills you can''t find anywhere else."


    How refreshingly blunt.


    If only all Metahumans were so easy, just laying their cards on the table as such, it would have solved many issues.


    Justin''s smile widened, but there was a flicker of something else in his eyes - his glasses sending messages to Yelena, who''s own implant and glasses soundlessly received it. "Absolutely. Your expertise could take Hammer Industries to the next level." He said genially enough, sitting back down, leaning back in his chair. "We''re prepared to offer you top-tier equipment, unrestricted access to our labs, and a team of elite engineers at your disposal."


    He had plenty more of course, but one never started a negotiation with the best offer.


    Besides¡­ He was still teetering around the decision whether to completely bind Forge to him - or just hire him.


    There were pros and cons for both angles. He needed more information¡­


    Forge leaned back, seemingly more relaxed now that an offer was on the table, his expression calculating. "That''s a good start, but I''m not cheap. I want a substantial salary, a double digit percentage of any profits from my innovations, and guaranteed autonomy in my work. No micromanaging."


    Let''s start at, no way in hell! Justin thought fiercely. Everything else was fineish, but guaranteed autonomy? Over his dead body.


    Justin nodded slowly, making a show of thinking things over. "We can arrange most of that easily enough." He admitted, gesturing to the opulence around them, "Money is literally no problem, your contributions would be invaluable to us, but guaranteed autonomy? You know we can''t do that¡­"


    Forge scowled, crossing his arms, "I''m not a follower, I build what I feel like, create what I want, I''m offering you to take advantage of that and monetize it - but it''s my choice in the end."


    Justin pursed his lips, tapping the table with his fingers, "Could you craft an AI? Especially if we already had a base copy for you to work on?" He threw out there, his gaze almost hungry.


    Yelena moved to get Forge a drink, his eyes not leaving her as she prepared it, and delivered it to him, placing it on the table in front of him.


    Forge narrowed his eyes, at Justin, keeping an eye on Yelena out of the corner of his eyes. "Yeah¡­ It wouldn''t be easy, but I could do it, switch the code around to something of my own, it would take time though¡­" Proving he wasn''t a fool, he immediately followed up with, "But I want that autonomy, that''s a fair trade, I do this one thing you want, and I get my deal how I want it."


    Justin pretended to think it over. In reality, Forge had sealed his fate the second he admitted he was capable of the task.


    The fact he was a genius capable of helping ease the load on Vanko - even eclipse him - was a delicious bonus.


    "Deal." Justin said, grinning widely, standing up and offering his hand to Forge.


    Forge flashed a brilliant grin, a tension in his shoulders easing up, standing up to reciprocate.


    That''s when Yelena struck, inserting the needle in his neck, administering the mind control serum, Forge relaxing his guard in the moment of apparent victory.


    Her and Justin had been in silent communication throughout the short meeting, preparing for this eventuality - the final decision made when he admitted to being able to craft their AI.


    Forge smacked Yelena with his prosthetic arm, sending the Black Widow flying into the wall, something audibly breaking - but she quickly regenerated the damage, the snap somehow louder being fixed then when breaking.


    Before any more damage could be done, Forge stopped, arms falling loose at his sides, his expression vacant.


    Justin stepped in front of him, grasping his chin, making him look at him with those vacant eyes. "Your only loyalty is to Justin Hammer, me! You will otherwise act as you normally would, except for the wishes of me, Justin Hammer, which will remain foremost in your mind. You are incapable of betrayal, of working against me, of sabotaging me." He leaned in closer, whispering into his ear, where even Domino and Yelena couldn''t hear, "Anytime you hear the words, I Justin Hammer command you, you will enter this state again, so your orders can be updated."


    Justin had thought about this, ever since Cho provided him with one dose of this miracle serum - full mind control. He could only use it once, but Forge was likely the best choice he''d ever find. A genius who could help him match Stark, and because of their resources and headstart - possibly beat him - and the final puzzle piece to having an ever present AI running the world for him.


    Or at least his business and spyware.


    For now.


    Forge seemed to come out of his fugue state, blinking rapidly. "What were we talking about, sir?" He asked, looking sheepish.


    Justin clapped him on the shoulder, a triumphant grin on his face, "You were just explaining how you were going to change the code for the AI we have, making it fully loyal to me, and unrecognizable to its original." He suggested.


    "Oh, yeah¡­ Right." Forge said, still shaking off the fugue, before his eyes sharpened noticeably and he started speaking rapidly, and enthusiastically on the subject.


    Before they could get into it too much, Yelena touched her glasses briefly, looking his way, "Ororo Monroe has just entered the building." She reported.


    Justin raised an eyebrow in surprise, last he heard she was in Gambia. "Whatever for?" He asked, having a sneaking feeling¡­


    "Him." Yelena said dryly, Domino chuckling, shaking her head at the fact Storm was just minutes late.


    Justin watched Forge slyly, "Well¡­ Let Storm come give her pitch, you are happy with Hammer industries aren''t you, Forge?" He asked mildly.


    Forge looked offended, crossing his arms, frowning already at the door Storm would arrive through, "It''s where I belong." He said simply.


    Justin allowed Domino to take Forge aside, to begin drilling him on company safety procedures and his new personal safety procedures. Forge was literally right now more valuable to him than all the Vibranium in the hellhole that used to be Wakanda.


    He''d never just skip out for a Starbucks again - Justin would not allow any chances that his new golden goose would die before he could start laying golden eggs.


    He''d used his only mind control serum on the man, it was an investment he hoped would pay off tenfold.


    Soon enough, there was a knock on the door, and Yelena let Storm in.


    Justin really didn''t think anyone could ever truly complain about his proclivities in this world - not when all the women looked like that.


    Ororo Monroe was literally the definition of a Nubian goddess.


    Ororo''s skin was a deep and rich brown, completely flawless and radiant, Her curves were both subtle and striking, with a narrow waist that accentuated her hourglass figure. Her eyes were somehow her best feature, a mesmerizing, piercing blue, filled with intelligence, as she took the room in with a glance.


    Her hair was a dramatic contrast to her dark skin, pure white and flowing down her back in thick, luxurious waves. It framed her face perfectly and added to her ethereal and almost mystical appearance.


    All in all, Justin had to stop himself from staring and making a fool out of himself. She had a presence to her that pictures did not adequately display.


    The kind that not only said I''m the most beautiful in here, but the most powerful as well. No wonder the campaign with her as the lead was working so well¡­


    "Mister Hammer." She murmured, lips curled into a pleased smile, even as her eyes remained slightly cautious.


    "Miss Monroe, a pleasure to have you with us, you''ve been doing excellent work across Africa." Justin said, not even having to exaggerate.


    Storm smiled, a little more honest now, a warm curl to her lips, "It''s hard work, but rewarding, just these last few days, 15 Metahumans have come forward to join with UNESCO to help others."


    Justin smiled, pleased with the numbers, the more he could get under his umbrella, whether for volunteering or actual work - the better.


    After all - if everyone worked for him - there would be no conflict would there?


    Storm''s eyes met Forge''s briefly, before meeting Domino''s, "Domino." She said politely.


    "Thunder Tits." Domino replied, a shit eating grin on her face.


    At Storm''s stormy expression, Justin knew there was a story there, but not one that was perhaps needed at the moment.


    "How can we help you, Miss Monroe?" He asked genially instead, sending Domino a warning look.


    His erstwhile bodyguard grinned at him, but didn''t speak up, just waggling her eyebrows at Storm.


    Storm eyed Forge, lips pursing as the Metahuman stared back at her unflinchingly, "Charles have wanted to recruit Forge for a while now, when I heard he was in Egypt I figured I''d speak with him, but I see you''ve already beaten me to the punch." She sounded rueful, but not too broken up about it.


    Good, he still held a good reputation with Xavier''s lot. He''d hate to lose it over being better at recruitment.


    Forge spoke up at that point, face utterly serious, "No one can offer me the resources that Hammer industries can." He said plainly, giving a logical reasoning for his choice.


    Storm nodded, a kind smile blooming on her face, "I agree, but I had to try." She turned to Justin, bowing her head just a tilt, "And I appreciate that you allowed me to interrupt your meeting, Mister Hammer." Her lips quirked into a wry grin, "It was about time I met my boss, too."


    Justin waved her apology away, "Think nothing of it, Miss Munroe, I''m thrilled to finally get to meet you as well, your actions in Africa already speaks volumes of your character."


    Was he laying it on a bit thick? Perhaps, but it was Storm. He certainly wasn''t going to piss her off, or ruin any chance of her continued work under his aegis.


    Storm smiled brilliantly, and Justin had to clear his throat, looking away from the radiance, "I am afraid I have other meetings however, as much as I loathe cutting this short¡­"


    He enjoyed meeting her, despite continuing to find that he enjoyed it too much when these occasions happened - women who could break him in half were apparently one of his things.


    But he also currently had several people he''d had kidnapped in this compound, so he''d prefer if she left post haste.


    "Of course." Storm said warmly, eyes briefly finding Domino''s, the two women staring at each other for a moment, something unsaid passing between them, "I will leave you to it, Mister Hammer." She nodded once at Forge, "Forge, should you ever change your mind, reach out to me at any time." And then she was gone.


    Yelena looked at Domino, intense curiosity burning in her eyes, "What was that all about?"


    Domino grinned savagely, "Personal business." She said, leaving it at that.


    Justin really wanted to know, but he had several meetings to deal with, so he let it be. "Yelena, take Forge to Sunil, for now - he''ll help him get settled in."


    "Domino, let''s go deal with our kidnapping victims, shall we?"


    25 minutes later,


    Justin stood by the observation window, glaring at the unconscious person within the room, as if by will alone he could make her go away.


    He would be having some strong words with his people, because kidnapping Gwen Stacy had not been part of the plan - nowhere on the list did her name appear!


    Although it neatly explained which Spiderman he was dealing with, he supposed. Because although she wasn''t a perfect dead ringer for Emma Stone, she was close enough.


    Just a massive pain in his ass, because he''d purposely kept away from the whole Spiderman thing, never even looking up Peter Parker. Spiderman was the one hero he could actually respect, one willing to sacrifice everything for anyone else, no matter which one he was.


    He wasn''t a Captain America who''d willingly give up the world, his friends, his family, for a taste of his old life over his new one - or sacrificing everything and everyone for his best friend, without any compunctions on if he should.


    Nor was he a Tony Stark, who helped only himself, until he began the journey to become a hero, but even then kept his skills to himself, doing nothing for the world despite how much good he could have done.


    Peter Parker, or Spiderman, honestly fought for others no matter the situation, he didn''t put conditions on his help.


    And no matter what sacrifices the Avengers did in certain places at the end, they had many many conditions in place in how they''d help - not even willing to work together half the time.


    Therefore Justin had completely stayed out of his way, no matter which version it was, he didn''t want to interfere.


    And now¡­ He''d stolen Spiderman''s girlfriend/friend/crush, whatever they were.


    Just what I needed¡­.


    He''d had everyone brought to Cairo, because he didn''t want to keep them in New York, too close to Oscorp and whatever Osborn''s response might be. You could never really tell with a crazy person. And since he had to meet Forge anyway, it was easier to keep things to one location.


    Which now gave him the problem of what to do with Gwen Stacy.


    He rubbed his forehead, annoyed with the situation and at himself, "Keep her sedated, drop her back off in New York, make sure the cops find her." He ordered the silent captain of this particular snatch team.


    One who wisely kept his mouth shut and just nodded to show he had understood the order.


    As long as she''s found healthy, with no ties to me, Spiderman won''t be a pain up my ass¡­ He thought.


    With Norman seen fighting Spiderman in New York, the hero in tights had his own problems anyway.


    Justin shook his head as he walked away from the room, he''d hoped to get Osborn with the attack on Oscorp where they''d hit his lab, robbing it, before blowing it up - but he''d been off playing in his new suit it seemed.


    Unfortunate, but Osborn would continue to be a thorn in his side for a bit. Their attack in no way devastated the man - although stealing his greatest scientific minds and the rare gem of Max Dillon - was honestly worth more than his entire stock in Justin''s opinion.


    Even if only he knew for sure that the Green Goblin was Norman Osborn, just the fact he was donning the suit - meant he would spiral towards the end.


    It was inevitable.


    Justin just needed to ensure Osborn didn''t burn him, on the way down.


    <hr>


    Twenty minutes later,


    Justin had figured it would be harder than this.


    "Where do I sign?" Doctor Curt Connors said abruptly, interrupting Justin''s carefully planned out speech to sway him onboard.


    "Excuse me?" Justin said, a little put out.


    Doctor Connors looked at him like he had rocks for brains, "You''re inviting me to work with Doctor Hansen, Cho and McCoy, on revolutionizing genetic work." He said slowly, repeating the words, "Where. Do. I. Sign!"


    Justin gestured with one hand, "You''re not¡­ Upset about the whole¡­ Kidnapping situation?" Justin knew scientists were married to their work in many cases, but he''d expected some irritation at the very least.


    Doctor Connors hadn''t been irritated, but he was beginning to look it now, frowning deeply, "As long as Miss Stacy is released back, I don''t see any issues¡­" He sighed, clapping his hands together - having purchased the highest level of Panacea to heal his lost limb as soon as it was available - Justin knew. "It''s going to be annoying to waste time buying new clothes and toiletries, but this is the opportunity of a lifetime!"


    If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    "... I''ll just leave the contract with you then, and I hope you realize that until Oscorp has given up on you, there can be no contact with your previous affiliations and friends." Justin explained, pushing the comprehensive contract forward.


    One that really should be read over by a team of lawyers.


    Doctor Connors ripped through the papers, signing and initializing, not reading a single word. "When do I get to meet Doctor Hansen?" He asked, straightening his tie, "Can I start working right now?"


    Justin nodded slowly, rising from his seat, "I will get someone to show you the way." He promised, leaving the room.


    He shouldn''t be upset that it was that easy, but it was just¡­ He''d planned a whole speech and everything, laying out all the benefits of working with Hammer Industries, the threat of Osborn''s growing insanity.


    "Fucking scientists." He muttered as he moved on to the next one, glasses flashing as he sent a message to one of Doctor Hansen''s handlers to come fetch Doctor Connors.


    He needed them, the world needed them. But there was something wrong with all of their brains.


    From Vanko to Cho to Connors.


    Maya was the most normal out of them all, and that said something. Because she barely saw humans as anything but a model to improve on, having few compunctions about the cost.


    Entering the next room, he put on a practiced suave smile, "Doctor Octavius." He greeted the corpulent man, pleased to have gotten to him before he went ridiculous.


    Otto Octavius glared at him, and Justin felt the world slotting back into place.


    "We''re wasting time here, Hammer, just give me the damn contract, and put me face to face with Vanko, the arc reactor and my project have many similarities I can''t wait to study." Doctor Octavius stabbed a finger his way, expression severe, "I''m not happy about how you recruited me, but Rosie is fine, so I''ll allow it, this time. If you hurry up and get me in the same room as Ivan Vanko!"


    Or maybe not¡­


    "Aren''t any of you upset about being snatched away from Oscorp?" He grumbled, fishing another set of contract papers out of his briefcase and laying them on the table.


    Doctor Octavius scoffed, rolling his eyes at him, "Have you met Norman? Oh, who am I kidding, of course you have." He said, lips curling into distaste, "He funded me, so I stayed, but I can''t say I''ve ever met another human being who actually liked the man, including his son. As far as I''m concerned, I''ve traded up."


    Justin preened slightly, "Well, yes, we are a much better choice for advancing humanity." Annoyed at how this was going he might be, if only for some personal reasons, (all that time wasted on the speech!) but he did like how they so easily saw his superiority.


    Doctor Octavius snorted, "You''re alright, a decent engineer I suppose, but I was talking about Hansen, Cho and Vanko."


    Justin twitched, biting back a retort. Even with his name on the creation of the Arc reactor, the cradle, and Panacea - he still got no credit in the scientific community.


    They all assumed Hansen, Vanko and Cho were behind it all, the three of them a shoe-in for Nobel prizes.


    They were right¡­ Of course. But it didn''t make it any less annoying.


    Doctor Octavius made an attempt to read the papers, perhaps more legally aware than Doctor Connors. Yet he began to become jittery, face twitching with annoyance by the second page, by the fourth, he simply cursed, grabbing the pen, and signed, tossing the papers down on the table, "There, I signed, can I get to work now?"


    Justin sighed, "I''ll send someone for you and your lovely wife." He acknowledged, stepping out of the room to find Sunil waiting for him.


    "Do not say I told you so." He warned, walking away, Sunil falling in step with him, "I will fire you!"


    Sunil raised an eyebrow, a tiny smirk curling his lips, "I don''t think you could survive without me, sir." He said, some amusement leaking through in his tone.


    Ugh, that gives me such Pepper Potts vibes, to think after all this I can remember such an insignificant part of a movie¡­


    "I know my social security number." He muttered, I''m not Tony Stark¡­


    Sunil coughed gently, looking amused, "I am sure you do sir."


    Justin just pinched the bridge of his nose, letting a huff of air out, letting go off the ridiculousness of the last half hour, "Anything noteworthy, Sunil? I still have to deal with Max Dillon."


    "Ah, yes, Miss Frost has requested some of your time¡­ Apparently you''re expected back in New York." Sunil said quietly, handing over his ever trusty tablet, showcasing the ''request'' from Emma Frost.


    "She''s not one for pleasantries is she?" Justin said, reading the short terse e-mail, "I just spent weeks in New York, the timing is just awful." He complained, handing the tablet back to Sunil.


    "Want me to craft a rejection? Going for direct, subtle, apologetic?" Sunil immediately asked, tapping away at something the moment he got his tablet back.


    Justin grimaced, not really all that impressed with Emma Frost, certainly not as a supposed ''ally'', but the reason she was reaching out made it important that he actually showed up.


    Can''t miss my own inauguration after all¡­


    <hr>


    Two hours and Twenty minutes later,


    Justin''s smile was strained, as he politely nodded along, as Max Dillon slowly read out his entire contract, asking questions at almost every other sentence - refusing a lawyer to go through the most salient points with him.


    Justin could have left it all to an underling, but Electro was too powerful and too useful of a piece on the board to risk alienating.


    "I''m going to be a superhero? A real life superhero? On a team? An American super team!?" Max exclaimed, a wondrous smile on his face as he looked up at Justin, having finally gotten to that part of his specific contract.


    Justin''s smile became a tad bit more genuine at the honest enthusiasm in his voice, "That''s right, you''ll be a crucial member of the H.A.M.M.E.R team, protecting America and the world."


    Max'' smile became slightly brittle, as he shuffled awkwardly in his seat, looking down at the papers, before glancing up again, "And the team name¡­ Uh¡­ Is that set in stone?"


    Justin would not yell. Yelling at potential supervillains able to cook your organs was not a smart move - no matter how harmlessly geeky they appear at the moment. "Yes. The President has already okayed it." He grit out, lips frozen in a plastic smile.


    Max considered that, before tilting his head slightly, a sheepish expression on his face, "Like okayed it okayed it? Or man, like¡­ That sounds okay, okayed it?"


    "The team name stays." Justin said abruptly, masterfully controlling his expression. Smiling widely, "The team name¡­ Stays¡­ We just need a name for you, to add you to the roster. After you sign." He pointedly glanced down at the contract that still remained unsigned,


    Max smirked, looking very self satisfied as he splayed his arms out, "Captain Electric!"


    "No." Justin outright refused him.


    He wanted him on the team, and it sure beat having him be a problem, running around and getting into the hands of HYDRA or Shaw. But he refused to allow him to call himself Captain Electric."


    "Electro." He offered, because the classic was just plain and simply optimal.


    "Mister Electro." Max countered, sticking his hair back, a smug countenance on his face.


    "Electro!"


    "The Amazing Electro?" Max tried, looking like he was going to insist, crossing his arms, setting his jaw in a stubborn way.


    Justin sighed, smile still locked in place, "Electro." He countered again, and before Max could protest, "And you get to design your own action figure." He added as a sweetener.


    Max pumped his fist, "Yeeessss, Kung Fu grip!" He exclaimed, his mouth wide open in awe.


    "Is that a yes?" Justin asked, twitching slightly at the idea of a man who''s main power was shooting people with electricity, needing a kung fu grip at all.


    "Yeah, it''s cool, I can dig Electro, and like, can my action figure have a shield, like Captain America?" He replied rapidly, putting his hands into a praying pose.


    "No. And let''s just sign the contract then, and we''ll get you right in with the PR department for your¡­ Action figure." Justin said, gesturing to the papers again. Patiently.


    Very patiently.


    "Alright." Max said, grabbing the pen, before pausing, "Can you explain this part here though?"


    "Let me call my assistant." Justin said pleasantly, deciding electrical powers were overrated, Sunil could deal with it.


    <hr>


    Several hours later, several frustrating meetings with politicians later.


    "Teach me how to fight." Justin said, brimming with frustration, from his last couple of meetings.


    Yelena and Domino glanced at each other, both showing open surprise at the question.


    "Are you¡­ Okay, sir?" Yelena asked, eyes roaming across his body as if to spot something anomalous.


    Justin cracked his knuckles, eyebrows twitching, "I just really need to punch something in the face."


    Domino snorted, looking very amused, cocking her hip as she rested a hand on it, "Hate to break it to you, but this," She used her other hand to gesture to herself and Yelena. "Won''t help with that frustration."


    "I need to learn to fight properly anyway." Justin said, sending her a dangerous glare that she ignored completely.


    Yelena hesitated, her lips twitching in a way that told Justin she wanted to laugh, but knew it wasn''t a wise idea. "Sir¡­ Justin." She amended, "I can train you, but it will be months, if not more before you would be able to ''punch'' me in the face."


    "Everyone is a pain in my ass today." Justin said darkly, "Just teach me how to fight, so I can work off my frustrations."


    Yelena got a gleam in her eyes, her lips curling into a cheshire grin. "There''s other ways to work off frustrations." She purred, stalking her way forward enticingly.


    "Down girl." Domino said with a chuckle, eyes serious, despite the humor in her voice as she knocked Yelena off balance with a shove to her shoulder, gaining a dirty glare in return, "He''s finally open to some actual training - you can get nasty any old day, let''s strike while the iron is hot."


    Justin suddenly wasn''t so sure about this, as both women appraised him seriously.


    ¡­


    Two hours later, his face hitting the mat yet again, nose crunching even with the mat supposedly protecting him -he didn''t exactly come to regret his choices, mostly.


    He needed to be more able, just in case, or why else even bother with things like Vibranium muscles and super soldier serums? Regeneration only helped so much if he couldn''t fight back or run from someone intent on picking him apart.


    But asking a Black Widow and someone who''s powers ensured she was impossible to hit unless she let him - to fight him¡­ Even as just training, with one of them teaching him as he fought the other - it was a painful lesson.


    Being manhandled by Domino and Yelena, who were both just in miniscule shorts and tank tops, was not too bad though, all things considered.


    His nose reset, and he spit out some blood, getting back up again.


    The fact he could heal from practically anything - meant they had no reason to hold back, training him the sink or swim way, forcing him to adapt quicker.


    His face hit the floor, stars momentarily circling him as he wondered what semi truck hit him.


    No raises for a year! He decided, hitting your boss without consequences is raise enough.


    "If you don''t get back up in three seconds I''m going to show you what I do to male enemy combatants that leave themselves completely open on the ground like that." Domino called out sweetly, with pure evil hiding behind that sweet exterior.


    Justin got back up.


    If there was anything he could say he had, it was the burning will to always move forward.


    As he bit the ground again, he acknowledged that it was a lot easier to practice in fields that didn''t break his nose, or jaw though.


    He just imagined he''d one day get to punch Tony Stark in the face, and got back up again.


    No pain, no gain.


    Justin staggered to his feet, wiping the blood from his split lip that had already healed over. The determination in his eyes burned brighter than before, but he was really starting to realize the enormity of what he''d asked. Yelena circled him, her steps light and predatory, while Domino stood back, arms crossed, analyzing his every move.


    It doesn''t help that my eyes keep being drawn to watching other things then their feet and hands, he thought with frustration, knowing Domino purposefully was crossing her arms just to prove that point, as he took a hit from Yelena due his momentary distraction.


    "You''re getting slower," Yelena taunted with a cool smirk on her face, darting in with a series of feints that Justin barely managed to deflect. And he had a feeling she let him.


    He attempted a counterattack, throwing a right hook that Yelena easily dodged, using his momentum to flip him over her shoulder. The impact with the mat was jarring, but Justin rolled to his feet, fueled by sheer grit and spite.


    Domino chuckled, a warm teasing grin on her face, "At least he''s persistent." She stepped forward, taking her turn. "Let''s see if you can handle a bit of unpredictability." She said, laughter already on her lips.


    Justin knew that any official martial arts training or anything wasn''t even in the cards yet, they were teaching him how to fall, dodge, the reflexes and muscle memory to get away, or counterattack, not actually fighting, not yet. The basics, not Kung Fu moves.


    Yet it still smarted to be so obviously outclassed.


    And Domino¡­ Domino just fucking cheated.


    She moved with a fluid grace that made it impossible to predict her attacks as she rushed him. One moment she was to his left, the next she was behind him, her fist connecting with his kidney. Justin grunted in pain, twisting to strike back, remembering to keep his feet planted solid, only to find empty air - she was already gone - striking from another angle. Justin taking another strike, helped by him somehow unluckily stumbling, losing his footing - despite standing perfectly still.


    He was almost expecting to see a banana peel or something when he looked down. Domino was bullshit enough for it.


    "Focus, Justin," Yelena called out. "You''re telegraphing your moves, and keep your feet in mind."


    Unfair, my footing was fine until her bullshitery, he thought, but gritted his teeth and positioned himself appropriately.


    Breathing deeply, Justin tried to calm his racing mind. He recalled the techniques they had shown him - balance, breathing, keeping his guard up. He tightened his stance, focusing on defense rather than attack. When Domino lunged again, he managed to deflect her blow and counter with a jab that almost grazed her shoulder - except his foot slipped underneath him in that exact moment.


    Either way, she''d moved slower and more carefully then she usually did too, or he wouldn''t have gotten that close. But it was some progress, because at least he did the right movements this time.


    "Better," Domino admitted, a flicker of genuine enjoyment in her eyes. "But you still have a long way to go." She teased.


    They went back and forth for another few moments, before Justin attempted a counterattack again, and Domino pulled a move right out of the Black Widow playbook, Yelena even laughingly calling out, "That''s a Natasha special!" As she did.


    Justin felt the world tilt as Domino''s legs scissored around his neck and pulled him down to the mat, her lithe, powerful muscles locking him in place. He struggled to break her grip, the mat beneath him a blurry haze as he fought to stay conscious. Her scent - something light and floral, even with the sweat - filled his senses, momentarily distracting him from the pain of her grip.


    Domino''s movements were fluid and relentless when she fought, a testament to her training and skill. As she tightened her hold, Justin felt the warmth of her skin against his, the slickness of sweat making it hard to find purchase, his muscles straining as he attempted to pry her legs apart, but she was like iron, her focus unwavering.


    He could have really used the super soldier serum right about now¡­


    "Pay attention, Justin," Domino murmured, her voice a mix of amusement and command. "You''re getting distracted." And there was definitely a light teasing tone there, Justin thought.


    Yelena snickering in the background added to the tableau as well, the Black Widow finding the sight amusing apparently.


    He gritted his teeth, trying to ignore the way the light caught the sheen of sweat on her chocolate skin, highlighting the contours of her muscles. The heat from their bodies mingled, creating a heady atmosphere that made it hard to think straight - or that might just be his rampant libido talking. He needed to focus on the fight, not the proximity of her body or the way her strong legs felt around his neck.


    Summoning his strength, Justin twisted his body, trying to shift his weight and break free. He managed to get a grip on her ankle, pulling with all his might. Domino grunted, momentarily loosening her hold, and he took the opportunity to roll them both, reversing their positions slightly.


    Now on top, Justin tried to press his advantage, pinning her shoulders to the mat, but his hands slipped off her slick skin, hitting the mat instead, leaving him completely open. She responded with a swift move, wrapping her legs around his waist and using the momentum to flip him over again. He landed hard, the air rushing out of his lungs, but he quickly wrapped his arms around her torso, pulling her close to neutralize her movements.


    She was too slick and quick for him to ever stop, plus her luck would continuously fuck him over, only by grappling hold of her and holding her still could he have a chance at eking out even a slight draw for a few moments.


    Their bodies were pressed together, the friction of the fight making his heart race. He could feel every muscle in her body tensing, every shift as she tried to gain the upper hand and he''d never experienced something like it. For a moment, their eyes locked, and he saw a glimmer of respect mixed with something more playful.


    "Not bad," she whispered, her lips dangerously close to his ear. "But you''re still too slow."


    With a sudden burst of strength, she twisted free, using her legs to propel herself over his head and landing gracefully behind him as he tried to get up to defend himself. Before he could react, she had him in another chokehold, her legs clamping down around his waist, her arm snaking around his throat.


    The pressure was intense, and Justin knew he had only seconds before he''d have to tap out. But instead of panicking, he focused on the fundamentals they had drilled into him. He shifted his weight as hard as he could, using his elbow to try and jab into her side, to cause her to loosen her grip just enough for him to slip free.


    Of course, as he tried to pull that off, shifting himself hard, the movement somehow only succeeded in getting Domino''s foot to his balls, making him tap out immediately, as he groaned in pain.


    They both rose to their feet afterwards, Justin breathing deeply even as Extremis took care of any issues, Justin knew he was far from her equal, but continued lessons might make him at least passable - he doubted he''d have the time to actually equal her, ever. As they circled each other again, he couldn''t help but notice the way her skin glowed with perspiration, the determined gleam in her eyes as the enjoyed the bout.


    "Ready for more?" Domino asked, a taunting challenge in her voice, her lips curled into an honest smile.


    Justin nodded, wiping the sweat from his brow. "Always." He said, although he was pretty close to wanting to call it quits.


    As they grappled, he felt a newfound respect for Domino, not just as a fighter, but as a teacher. She was relentless, but fair, pushing him to be the best he could be. And even as her legs once again wrapped around his neck, pulling him into another painful submission, he couldn''t help but think that this was exactly where he needed to be.


    Of course other thoughts intruded, but he rose above them. Really. He barely thought about it.


    They resumed their positions shortly thereafter, this time Yelena rejoined the fray while Domino critiqued, something Yelena had failed at, being too busy laughing at him as Domino dominated him. The two women worked together to press him harder, one to fight, one to call out and refocus Justin on the fundamentals when he slipped. Justin felt like a punching bag, absorbing hit after hit, but with every fall, he rose again, more determined.


    Without a healing factor, it would have been impossible, but he might as well get some use for the thing.


    Hours passed again, as Justin pushed, having a body which could take it, yet still his body screamed for mercy in the end, or perhaps it was his mind, overwhelmed by the amount of asskicking he was on the receiving end of, a sort of grim satisfaction settling in his chest, his earlier frustrations forgotten.


    "Enough." He called out, sweaty and tired, as he sat on the mat, once again having taken a toss.


    Domino approached, offering him a hand, a warm grin on her face, "You''re a glutton for punishment, I''ll give you that."


    Justin took her hand, pulling himself up. "As some people I know have continued to tell me, I can''t always count on backup."


    Yelena smirked, walking forward and tossing him a towel. "You''ve got potential, if you work on it. But don''t think this was anything more than the basics. Real fighting is an art, and you''re just learning to hold the brush."


    "How poetic." He drawled, getting a blush from his personal secretary/assassin.


    Yelena, still blushing, got a devious look on her face, bumping shoulders with Domino, "Poetry was watching the two of you roll around, all slick and breathing hard." She said, heavy with the innuendo.


    Justin paused, unable to stop himself from one again giving Domino''s sweat slicked body another glance, the tank top and shorts practically painted on her body at this point.


    Poetry was a word for it. Justin had a lot of better ones though.


    Domino laughed, rolling her shoulders, "Still not sleeping with you." She said tongue in cheek to Justin, having noticed his looks at the very least. "But I enjoyed that." She admitted, stretching her arms out.


    As they walked out of the training room, Justin couldn''t help but feel a strange camaraderie with the two women. They had pushed him to his limits and beyond, they were his employees, and something else perhaps in Yelena''s case - but this somehow made him feel closer to them.


    Maybe they were all animals deep inside after all, and only throwing hands allowed for insight into one another.


    Either way, he''d continue the training sessions, time permitting.


    No pain, no gain. And he was ready to endure whatever it took.


    <hr>


    After the grueling training session, Yelena and Domino took a breather together in the locker room, having seen Justin off to go bother Sunil for a bit.


    Inside their building, Justin was safe enough that for once, Domino didn''t feel the need to be a constant shadow.


    Yelena nudged Domino with her elbow, a teasing grin on her face as Domino wiped her face with a towel. "You know, you looked really good out there today, all sweaty and intense." Domino didn''t buy that airy tilt to her voice for a second, she was up to something.


    Now that she knew she was raised a Widow, a lot about her made more sense.


    Domino rolled her eyes at her, smirking. "Oh, please... You just like seeing me work hard." After so long mostly sitting around with no action, the amount of work she did compared to the others, was an oft remarked upon thing.


    Domino didn''t mind, it was more fun to laugh at them while they complained after all. Especially whenever she brought up that she made more money than them.


    Well, except possibly Sunil, who Justin kept giving raises to whenever he happened to think the man was doing too much work.


    So all the time.


    "Maybe just a little." Yelena said with a wink, taking off the hair tie binding her hair together, shaking it loose, letting out a relaxing huff. "But seriously, you should do it more often. It''s a good look on you, you looked like you were really enjoying yourself."


    The small appreciative look the lithe Russian spy sent her - spoke for itself.


    She should have never stuck around for their little playdate, Yelena had been on the prowl since.


    Domino laughed easily, shaking her head, a small smile on her face, finding it all cute more than annoying in the end, "You''re impossible, or is that incorrigible?" She gave Yelena a curious searching look, "You''re really taking your job too seriously if you''re trying to be his wingwoman now, you realize?"


    Funny too, considering her reactions to a certain Miss Van Dyne¡­


    Yelena had an impish smile on her face as she handed Domino a water bottle. "You know, he''s not half bad." She suggested.


    Domino rolled her eyes again, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Ringing endorsement there, not half bad." She mocked lightly. "I don''t mix business with pleasure anyway." She said as if to finish the discussion.


    "Maybe it''s time you reconsider that policy, Dom." Yelena suggested, her tone light but with a hint of seriousness. "Justin''s got potential. Not talking about fighting, but... You know, as a person."


    Domino raised an eyebrow, giving her an appraising look, "Dom?" She asked lightly.


    Yelena shrugged, a faint hint of pink to her cheeks, "Just trying to connect." She defended herself, sounding embarrassed.


    How adorable.


    Domino smirked, laying an arm around her shoulder, pulling her into a half hug, uncaring of the sweat, "I like it ''Lena." She said, reciprocating the gesture.


    Yelena ducked her head slightly, a pleased smile on her lips.


    Domino raised her head skyward, sighing, giving Yelena a squeeze, "I''m not interested in complicating things, ''Lena." She admitted, knowing she needed to really put it home.


    Yelena folded her arms, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "You''re always so focused on keeping things simple, Domino. Life isn''t simple, you know. Sometimes, it''s messy and complicated, and that''s what makes it interesting."


    Domino shook her head, smiling. "Spare me the philosophy lecture, I can see what you''re doing little Black Widow¡­" She said, bumping her slightly, wordlessly telling her she wasn''t going to get snared in her web, "I''m fine with how things are."


    She stretched, letting out a pleased moan as something in her back popped.


    Besides, a good workout and a fight can be just as good as sex sometimes¡­


    <hr>


    2 days later,  New York,


    "One would think you didn''t trust me, Justin." Emma Frost said frostily, leaning back with forced casualness in the white leather seats of her armored limousine.


    Justin, accompanied by both Domino and Yelena, smiled in a way that didn''t reach his eyes, "Perish the thought." He responded dryly, making a show of looking around the expansive limousine, "The President didn''t have a granddaughter for you to mind control into kissing your feet today?"


    Emma Frost raised an immaculate eyebrow, lips curling slightly, "I''ve found that powerful men make for better grovelers, perfect for kissing my feet."


    "And you wonder why I don''t trust you¡­" Justin chuckled hollowly, his face stony as he sized her up, glasses recording her every facial tick.


    Emma tilted her head ever so slightly, in what could perhaps generously be called a nod of acquiescence. "People at our level can not trust completely." She said simply. "Where we are going, you''ll need to extend a slight bit of trust however."


    "The Hellfire club¡­" Justin muttered with distaste. Shaw¡­.


    Emma pursed her lips, one fingertip lightly tapping the jewelry around her wrist, a screen sliding down from the roof of the limousine, two profiles given equal billing. "Sebastian Shaw, and Selene¡­"


    Justin peered at the cold aloof woman who apparently held as much power as Shaw, "For someone that has been under the sway of the Hellfire club for a long time, you certainly don''t know much." He said, noting how Selene mostly had question marks surrounding her.


    Emma nodded cooly, "According to what she says, and Shaw backs up, she''s an immortal sorceress¡­" She shrugged slightly, "I have not been able to find much information on her, but utilizing renowned historians I have confirmed that a woman with her general appearance has popped up throughout history, generally in regards to catastrophe."


    Just what we need¡­ Where is the Ancient One? This is her job isn''t it? Justin thought with some acrimony, dealing with magic was out of his comfort zone.


    Justin knew enough about Emma Frost at this point to not discount what she was saying either. She would not be a woman likely to hold to the belief Selene was an immortal sorceress without at least a good idea about it. "Nothing from the peek-a-boo express?" He asked, gesturing to his forehead with two fingers.


    So Shaw might not even be the biggest threat here¡­


    He would need to dig further into this Selene, perhaps Xavier would know something, surely someone he mindraped knew about magic?


    He really didn''t want to have to go and track down the Ancient Ones email address.


    Emma''s eyes flashed, even as her expression remained placid, "Do not call it that." She requested forcefully, before sighing, "Most higher members of the Hellfire club have mental protection, Selene more than most." She admitted.


    "Must be very frustrating for you." He said slyly.


    "And for you¡­ We share common enemies, if I could access their minds, it would be both our victories." She reminded him, pointedly.


    "Maybe Shaw, I certainly wouldn''t mind taking him down a peg." Justin countered blithely, "I have no reason to tangle with this Selene¡­"


    Emma smiled, and there lay a dark promise in it as she looked at Justin, "Oh¡­ You''ll see."


    She gestured to the picture of Shaw, "His mutant ability is dangerous. It allows him to absorb kinetic energy and convert it into raw strength and durability." She looked at him seriously, her fists clenching, her only sign of her hatred. "This power makes him nearly invincible in combat, each blow he takes only makes him stronger, he''s also got mental defenses I can''t breach, and a group of mutants called the hellions to protect him and do his bidding."


    Emma looked at his visage on the screen, eyes narrowed, "He can seem laid back, but do not doubt for a second¡­" Her eyes found his, "He is one of the most dangerous men in the world."


    With those ominous words, they soon arrived at the Hellfire club, New York chapter.


    Justin could have probably gotten in even back in the day, maybe not as a king, but as a member? There was no doubt about that.


    The Hellfire club catered to the richest of the rich, primarily, but you could get in if you were useful enough, or had the right pull. Justin had been focused on building his weapons company up and hadn''t paid attention to the social scene until he was already set up - at which point he''d taken over the memories and body.


    So there had never been a chance to join in on the decadence - he''d been too busy.


    Technically speaking, he shouldn''t be bringing Domino and Yelena inside. If everyone brought all their bodyguards, the building would be stuffed with them.


    That said, they wanted him as the White King. So he''d just ignore that little rule, and dare anyone to do anything about it.


    For all they knew, only Domino was a bodyguard - Yelena''s reveal having a secondary beneficial outcome - in that she could now sub in as a bodyguard as well, not having to hide from him that she''d be secretly armed anymore, she had access to much better weaponry.


    They''d see a personal assistant or ''secret'' lover, and not realize he had a Black Widow at his back.


    Justin strode into the Hellfire Club alongside Emma Frost like he owned it, his senses immediately assaulted by the opulence and decadence that surrounded him - and that was saying something considering who he was. The club, the haven for the world''s elite businessmen and power brokers, exuded an air of indulgence and unrestrained luxury and debauchery. Every vice was available on tap, and here, nothing was illegal.


    If you could pay, whether in favors or money, anything you wanted was available.


    The entrance hall was adorned with dark aged mahogany that was likely older than the country itself and rich velvet drapes, lit by the warm glow of crystal chandeliers. The scent of expensive cigars mingled with the faint aroma of rare perfumes, creating an intoxicating and really just obnoxious atmosphere. Justin''s eyes were briefly drawn to the finely dressed attendees, who moved with the confidence of people who believed they were above the law.


    Much like he did, as he walked further, the crowds parting like chaff before a shark. The various scantily clad servants doing their best to attract attention, as they were practically bred to, according to his research.


    Well¡­ Mostly Emma''s, but she''d shared it, so it was also his.


    As he followed Emma deeper into the club, Domino and Yelena never far from his side, Justin observed the spread of decadent offerings. Ridiculously costly and time intensive buffets of exotic foods were displayed, and vintage wine that could not even be found in the outside world was available to all comers.


    In one corner, a group of men engaged in high-stakes gambling, their favorite actresses leashes and lives, the apparent bids. The obvious sight of human lives changing hands, amidst the shuffle of cards - adding to the picture of hedonism.


    Justin was the first to admit he was a bastard through and through, but this¡­ Pointless hedonism and ruination for nothing but boredom - made him seethe.


    The people in this room alone could have solved world hunger.


    Instead they were chortling about how the newest Hollywood starlet would have to suck dick all over again - facing a new owner.


    Emma, with her icy demeanor, striking presence and absolute ruthlessness, fit perfectly into this world, Justin¡­ Wanted to tear it down and salt the earth behind it - it was not his world.


    He was the first to admit he was evil, but he did it for a purpose. This was all¡­ Pointless.


    Emma led Justin through the labyrinthine halls with an air of ownership, acknowledging nods and glances from other members, it rankled Justin that just by his presence, her own influence would skyrocket as the fools present would assume things on that alone. They passed rooms where whispered deals were made over glasses of cognac, and alcoves where more illicit activities and pure atrocities took place, concealed from prying eyes by heavy drapes - or not concealed at all in the case of some, the cries of agony and fear almost stopping them in their tracks at one in particular.


    Domino''s eyes flashed his way, and Justin grimaced, shaking his head, noting how her fist clenched, shaking in anger, even as his own nails dug into his palms.


    Yelena on the other hand, was likely used to seeing such atrocities as the one they just walked by, as a Black Widow she might have suffered similar as a child. Even still, Yelena laid a comforting hand on Domino''s shoulder, as Emma watched them all with an unreadable expression.


    Justin stopped her and looked into her eyes, resolving to himself that if he saw no sight of her own revulsion - he would kill her as well when he killed Shaw. Thankfully for their partnership, Emma, while cool as ice, could not hide the hate flashing through her eyes.


    With a nod, Justin gestured for her to lead on, sending one last look to the alcove, his glasses having caught enough of a face to perform facial recognition.


    An e-mail was quickly composed and sent to Domino''s inbox. She didn''t really do assassinations, but he had a feeling she''d make an exception.


    "Steel yourselves, Selene can be a bit¡­ Much when you first encounter her." Emma said coldly, taking a deep breath herself as she led them into a private elevator with golden doors.


    There were no guards, but it didn''t surprise Justin. Anyone that came up here either belonged, or would die in short order for going up against the kind of powerhouses that apparently led the Hellfire club.


    Justin felt a bit out of place, for the first time in a long time - although he''d slowly been enhancing himself - compared to these people - it wasn''t nearly enough.


    The elevator doors opened, letting them step into the ''throne room'' of the Black and White Kings and Queens of Hellfire club.


    As opulent and excessive as the room was, Justin only had eyes for the two people in it. Both sitting on black thrones.


    Shaw, Justin noted, had a greedy possessive look in his eyes as he lounged in his throne, having eyes only for Emma. His suit could barely contain his physique, and his entire mien exuded cruelty.


    This was a man who lived and operated with cruelty as the main purpose, not a byproduct.


    Justin''s eyes switched to Selene, who appeared like a mockery of regalness as she appraised them with a bored half lidded gaze, sitting straight-backed on her throne, The Black Queen in the flesh¡­


    She was a vision of chilling beauty and dark allure, a cruel twist to her lips that he imagined was habit by now, her presence both enchanting and terrifying in equal measure, Justin could feel his eyes drawn to her, even as he attempted to look away.


    Selene''s raven-black hair flowed in glossy waves down her back, contrasting sharply with her flawless alabaster skin. Her eyes were a cold, mesmerizing shade of violet, even in her bored mien, she reeked of malice. She wore a form-fitting barely there black dress, covering her breasts, but leaving her torso mostly bared, the dress so short that Justin believed he''d see a lot more than he had intended if she shifted her crossed legs. Around her neck, a choker of black diamonds sparkled ominously and Justin thought he saw an actual face scream at the surface for a moment, before it faded away.


    Emma''s hand briefly brushed against Justin''s, breaking him out of whatever effect had him under sway, his mental implants supposed to protect from any mental intrusion, but apparently susceptible to some kind of charm effect.


    Apparently touch was enough to break it, he''d have to remember that.


    "I see Justin Hammer, and understand his purpose in being here." Selene drawled, leaning back on her throne, Justin''s earlier thoughts realized as she shifted.


    Her right hand rose, pointing at Domino and Yelena, violet painted fingernails glimmering in the light, "That one is a mutant, so I suppose I can allow it, but she¡­ isn''t. The temerity to bring your pets when coming before me¡­" Selene said slowly.


    Shaw side eyed her, "Selene¡­ We''re all friends here." He reminded her, his face tight.


    With a careless wave of her hand, Yelena started convulsing, screaming in agony as she fell to the floor.


    "Selene!" Shaw barked sharply, but notably made no move to get in her way.


    "Release her!" Justin ordered, heart hammering in his chest. He didn''t think Domino would be enough to defeat this sorceress, he hadn''t expected her to be this mercurial.


    Selene smiled, and it was an ugly thing for someone so beautiful. "I don''t think I will¡­" She drawled, Yelena''s agonized screams echoing across the room.


    Justin couldn''t beat her. He couldn''t get Shaw to do it. Emma could not help, Domino would likely survive through her luck - but surviving didn''t mean winning a fight.


    Justin grit his teeth as the only thing left was either a nuclear option, or coldly sacrificing a servant to gain Selene''s approval.


    Depending on the servant, Justin might have even played along. But¡­ Yelena¡­


    "Stop or you will die." He told Selene coldly.


    The immortal sorceress actually did stop at that, throwing her head back and laughing coldly, Shaw giving Justin a look that epitomized - I hope you know what the fuck you''re doing.


    "Have you lost all sense? Or perhaps you need a better demonstration of my power¡­?" Selene said, her smile growing crueler.


    Justin glared at her, he couldn''t show weakness now, he could only play this hard and hope to god she couldn''t actually get past his mental defenses.


    "You might be immortal, I can''t speak to that. But if you''re here, in the Hellfire club, it''s because you enjoy a more¡­ Sedated and lavish lifestyle." Justin said, figuring a sorceress wouldn''t hobnob with plain normals, or mutants, unless she either needed something - or had grown that bored.


    "Are you going to try and bribe me? That won''t work." She said, sounding disappointed, her hand beginning to move in Yelena''s direction again, Domino protecting her with her body, eyes tense.


    Justin glared, wanting nothing more than to rip her apart in this moment, playing with the life of his people. His! "I have already pressed my emergency beacon." He bluffed, spinning a tale, "If you do not desist, your face and the fact you use magic, that magic is real, that you''re a threat to the world - will be on every newscast in the world." He grinned darkly, "My word means a lot, you''ll never get a day''s rest, hunted by everyone - the Ancient One might even pop up due to you being responsible for the reveal of magic on a grand scale."


    He continued to hammer the point, "Even if you win each battle, you''ll never get to just sit and relax again, constantly badgered by ''lesser'' beings." He met her bored gaze with a hateful one of his own, "I might not be able to defeat you, (yet) but I can make your existence miserable, all for the price of one woman¡­"


    Emma stepped forward, finally, to argue on his behalf, "Your reveal is too costly, Black Queen - and this trifle? You don''t really care about her, you were simply bored, were you not?"


    Justin felt some tension leak out as Selene nodded slowly at Emma giving her an acceptable out without seeming like she was entirely capitulating.


    And Justin¡­ Would have to listen to Emma when she spoke about the Hellfire club, because she had cautioned him about taking Domino and Yelena.


    He''d just refused to bow his neck to them.


    "I suppose you''ve proved your mettle despite not being a mutant." She sniffed, and Justin wasn''t sure if she meant him - or Yelena, who was already healing up, Domino soothing her as her brain tried to catch up to what happened.


    Selene waved him forward with a languid gesture, spreading her legs slightly, "You may come service me now." She said like she was talking about the weather.


    Justin froze still, Emma giving him a warning look, this woman is insane¡­ He thought, but unsure if he should dare to set her off again.


    Shaw clapped his hands together with faked cheerfulness, "Delightful that we got to know each other so well already, White King, White Queen¡­ Take your seats." He offered, gesturing to the two thrones next to them, Selene rolling her eyes, but closing her legs, giving Shaw an annoyed look.


    ¡­ Never thought I''d say it, but I owe you one Shaw¡­


    With the table in front of them with chairs to hold the bishops and knights, Justin would be on a raised dais on a throne, looking down at them. He immediately swore eternal vengeance on Emma however, as she quickly walked forward and took one of the empty thrones. The one not next to Selene.


    Slowly, with a lingering gaze at Yelena, Justin strode up the dais and sat down on his throne. Not much of an inauguration, but then he knew, they''d barely started.


    The kings and queens to confer, before the rabble could take part.


    "So¡­ Justin¡­" Shaw said slowly, sending a wary glance at Selene who was simply watching them all inscrutably, "Let''s talk a little about what the Hellfire club could do for you¡­ And you for it."


    ¡­


    Justin hated that even despite it all, the Hellfire club would indeed turn out to be useful for his goals.


    As long as he stayed far away from the batshit crazy immortal.


    Fucking magic.


    He needed to find someone for that¡­


    <hr>


    The next day, London headquarters.


    Justin strode into the headquarters like he owned it. Because of course he did own it.


    "Where is she!?" He barked at the receptionist, who dropped the phone she was talking into, looking absolutely flustered as she directed him to the private elevator.


    Justin walked rapidly, with Domino in tow, Yelena on forced leave by his decision. Extremis or not, he gave her a few days off much to her chagrin.


    And while they''d been in New York, the deal with Magneto had been pulled off - the man of magnetism getting Trask, while releasing Phantazia back from her vacation investigating Mystique''s peculiarities.


    Except when she''d entered the London headquarters, she''d failed the intensive security screening and ended up foamed.


    Within minutes he arrived, Doctor McCoy, his borrowed X-Men researcher, waiting for him.


    "What''s wrong!?" He barked immediately upon seeing him, coming to stand before the observation window, looking down into the cell where a fully foamed and unconscious Phantazia was held.


    With her powers, keeping her conscious was just a bad idea in general.


    Doctor McCoy sighed deeply, looking troubled. "She is suffering from the same issue afflicting Mystique. Something is controlling her actions, almost indistinguishable from her own, and without your extensive security and psychological testing, she would have slid right back in without you aware of a thing."


    The thought chilled Justin, as he held the railing in front of him in an iron grip, rage filling him, he was getting really fucking tired of people messing with his things.


    Maybe it was time to go full supervillain in regards to some targets¡­ "Is it magic?" He asked, thinking of Selene. This wasn''t her, she didn''t strike him as that subtle. If she wanted to mess with him, she''d have just killed Yelena.


    Doctor McCoy shrugged, looking frustrated to not have an answer, "It''s a likely hypothesis, but I can''t prove or disprove it."


    Justin grunted in displeasure. Domino staring down at the cell with actual anger on her face, drawing his attention.


    "You''re going to make them pay, right?" She asked roughly.


    Justin nodded, "Whenever we find them. Whoever it is. They''ll suffer." He promised, Doctor McCoy looked even more uncomfortable now. Justin turned his gaze on him, "How far along is the version of Panacea applicable to Metahumans?" He asked sharply.


    "Months away." He said apologetically.


    Justin hummed, months for you maybe¡­ He''d added a lot to the research, but now they just needed to up the amount of mutants they tested it on, hidden from the X-Men. He wasn''t waiting months.


    He could only hope that completely regenerating any injuries or illnesses, would actually break the hold of whatever the hell had her.


    Then a thought struck him, a thought he didn''t enjoy one bit.


    If Mystique and Phantazia are both controlled¡­


    What about Magneto?


    <hr>

 The Magic Troll

    <hr>


    New York, middle of July, 2008


    "Can you believe the audacity!" Hope practically screeched, as she paced across the carpet, hands gesticulating wildly, her face flushed.


    "To refuse me, his own daughter! Forcing me to practically beg for the opportunity, only succeeding in the end because of him feeling more threatened! Yet he gives a suit to t-that, that ignoramus!" Hope stopped in place letting out something between a shriek and a groan, throwing her hands up in utter disgust.


    Justin wisely kept his mouth shut, just nodding along sympathetically as Hope ranted about her father. He could say he definitely did not know much about women, except perhaps carnally - but one thing he did know. Sometimes they weren''t looking at you for a solution, they just wanted a sympathetic ear to listen and validate their thoughts and feelings.


    If he jumped in trying to solve this, he''d likely turn Hope''s ire on himself. So just nope. Nod and smile, Justin, nod and smile, he told himself.


    "And to think, I''d thought he''d changed, letting me have the Wasp suit, listening to me, eventually, on the Suez canal¡­" Hope growled out, eyebrows twitching as she did another circle on the carpet.


    "But NO!" She shouted, fists clenching, "I''m just a woman, I should just shut up and listen to the men, allow them to protect me while I go back to the kitchen!"


    Justin wasn''t going to touch that with a ten foot pole. He did not want to experience the sting of the Wasp.


    Domino of course had no such compunctions, lounging to the side, she let out a loud fake gasp, "Oh no he didn''t!?" She called out entirely manufactured, "Maybe that''s his ploy, keep you barefoot and pregnant with this Cross guy, since he has daddy''s approval." She continued, for some god awful reason.


    Justin sent her a dark look, what the fuck are you doing? He tried to mentally send to his shit stirring subordinate.


    Domino just shrugged, with her lips curled into a coy smirk.


    "I''ll kill him first!" Hope swore, eyes flashing with anger, "Even if I liked that idiot, which I do not!" She clarified with great emphasis, "I would not let my father choose for me!"


    She looked close to tears, even in her anger, and Justin decided that enough was enough. At a certain point he''d have to disregard even his own advice. Hope potentially crying was one of them.


    Justin took a deep steadying breath first, bracing himself to step in before things escalated further. He moved closer to Hope, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "Hope, it''s clear that your father underestimates both your intelligence and your capabilities, but we both know what you''re capable of. You''ve proven yourself time and again, and you''ll do it again this time - he''s just a dinosaur - brilliant, perhaps - but you''ll surpass him, all on your own."


    Hope stopped pacing, breathing heavily as she looked at Justin. For a moment, her anger seemed to waver, replaced by a flicker of something else. "You''re right," she said quietly, her voice trembling from the release of emotions. "I''ve come too far to let him dictate my life." Her face firmed up and she nodded to herself, taking a deep breath.


    Justin nodded, his tone soothing, as if dealing with a wild animal that might maul him at any given time. "Exactly! And Cross isn''t a threat to you anyway, he can''t even begin to compare, he''s just another obstacle you''ll overcome. We''ll figure this out together."


    Hope sighed, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "Thank you, Justin. I needed to hear that." She said, flashing him a warm honest smile.


    Damn I''m good, Justin thought, preening slightly, his own smile blossoming onto his face.


    Domino, never one to miss an opportunity to stir the pot, chimed in again with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Oh, I don''t know, Hope. Maybe you should just challenge Cross to a duel. Winner gets the suit and daddy''s approval." She suggested, completely ignoring the motion Justin made to cut it out.


    Someone was going to get a pay decrease, he mentally made a note of. Domino''s penchant for teasing was going to get him killed one day.


    Hope rolled her eyes, but the corner of her mouth twitched upward in a reluctant smile. "You''re impossible, Domino." She let out, shaking her head.


    Domino winked, leaning back lazily. "That''s why you love me."


    Justin shook his head, chuckling despite himself. "Don''t listen to her, Hope. We''ll handle this professionally, you''ve got this."


    Knowing what he did about what Cross did in the future¡­ Justin had half a mind of dealing with it himself instead of letting Hope do it.


    But in the end, he trusted her, and he didn''t want to overstep.


    If she began to have troubles however¡­ A friend lending a hand wasn''t anything too outrageous.


    Hope took a deep breath, finally letting go of the last remnants of her frustration. "You''re right. We''ll handle it. Together." She said, patting the hand that was on her shoulder.


    "That''s a hallmark moment right there, you two are adorable." Domino drawled, leaning her chin on her hands.


    Hope blushed slightly, while Justin just plain ignored the other woman, "You''re just jealous, Domino, because you don''t have a friend as good as Justin." Hope shot out, a little flustered.


    Domino looked skeptical, "Friends¡­ Yeah¡­ Let''s call it that."


    Justin gently guided Hope to the couch by his desk, leaving Domino to lounge further away, her smirk still in place. Once seated, Justin turned to Hope, his expression serious. "Alright, let''s talk about something more productive. We need to discuss the space program we''re setting up in Africa and how we can use Pym particles to speed up the process." Of everything I''m doing, this is the most important one¡­


    Both he and Hope were constantly busy, and times to meet up were growing rarer, and this wasn''t really something he''d like to discuss over video conference if he could do it face to face.


    Hope''s eyes lit up with interest, the tension in her face easing as she shifted her focus to the new topic, one she had a passion for. "Yes, we''ve already secured support from the African governments thanks to you, so we can hit the ground running. Using Pym particles could significantly reduce the time and resources needed for construction of a space station. We could miniaturize the components, transport them easily, and then expand them on-site."


    Needless to say, the major delays would mostly come from the fact the Pym particles were only moved in small amounts, and either with Hope personally, or under the aegis of Pym technologies.


    So the biggest holdup wouldn''t be the actual construction, it would be getting the Pym particles in a timely manner consistently, without Hank Pym throwing any wrenches into it suddenly. He was only allowing a minor amount out, after all.


    Justin nodded genially, encouraged by her enthusiasm, and, he admitted, possessing quite a large amount of the same - it was space! "Exactly. We''ll start by designing the modular components for the space station. By miniaturizing and then expanding them on-site, we can avoid the logistical nightmare of transporting massive structures."


    It would also make putting them in space tremendously easier if they could just miniaturize the entire thing for transport.


    He''d also put Forge on it as soon as the work with his AI was done, even if by some reports he was already meddling with it with Ivan anyway. The man was ridiculously good, and adding his capabilities to the space program officially, would catapult it forward.


    Even if they''d have to take it all apart and see how it worked, since even Forge didn''t seem to know half the time. He''d just build something insane, and it worked - not unlike a tinker from Worm in some aspects.


    Except his work could be reproduced, they''d just have to take it apart and figure it out first. Ivan had already declared Forge as his brother, plying him with Vodka and threatening to castrate Justin if he took the Metahuman away from their now shared workshop in Cairo.


    It had temporarily distracted the Russian from his demand to meet Tony Stark, to his relief.


    Justin had half a mind to see if Forge could find an engineering fix to what was wrong with Phantazia, but he was leery of letting him experiment on something affecting the brain of one of his most trusted people.


    Hope leaned forward, Justin glancing down her cleavage by habit, which Hope thankfully ignored, "We''ll need to hire specialists to create and integrate the advanced recycling systems and your renewable energy batteries into the design. Solar energy is a given for a backup in case the arc reactor has an issue or is sabotaged, but we should also explore other options like cosmic radiation harnessing and more advanced battery storage for worst case scenarios."


    Justin wanted to say that no one would be so stupid as to sabotage a space station hanging over earth, a win for all of humanity.


    But even disregarding the aliens that might do it, there were unfortunately plenty of humans that were that short sighted, and plenty with the power to cause harm.


    Justin smiled warmly, appreciating Hope''s strategic thinking. The scientists currently working on it for him hadn''t even thought of sabotage - not counting Vanko. "Good points. We should also consider the sustainability of the space station in case trouble on earth keeps us separated for long periods of time." He mused out loud, the backlash from mutants and the economic shift hadn''t really been felt yet, even if protests still erupted across the world from time to time.


    Twenty people had died in the states due to protests, more against the upheaval of the economy still, then the metahuman reveal.


    "Efficient resource management will be an important point if we''re going to get this station to work independently. The Pym particles - if we can get enough - can help us create compact, efficient recycling systems, minimizing waste and ensuring long-term self sufficiency for the station." He continued, not pressuring Hope, but gently reminding her how important her part was.


    It all came back to the Pym particles. He could do it even without them, but it would be harder to make it truly self sufficient and capable of acting independently from supply support from Earth then.


    Befriending Hope might turn out to be the most important decision he ever made - above anything else he''s done.


    Domino, unable to resist, interjected from her spot, having to speak up to be heard. "So, you''re planning to build a space station and save the world, huh? Ambitious. Just make sure you don''t forget to send me a postcard from space." She quipped.


    Hope rolled her eyes but couldn''t help a small smile. Justin knew she was endlessly amused by Domino. "We''ll send you more than a postcard, Domino. How about a spot on the first mission?" She said teasingly. "First Metahuman in space, how about it?"


    Justin didn''t think that was necessarily true, but he didn''t know about any, so for all he knew it was. If the X-gene existed amongst aliens, he didn''t know about it.


    Domino raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the offer. Not surprisingly, you didn''t become a mercenary without some sort of adrenaline addiction. "Now that''s more like it. I''ve always wanted to see if the moon is really made out of cheese."


    Justin had to palm his face at that, shaking his head. "Focus, Domino. We''re talking about serious business here." He chided, but he couldn''t hide the way his lips curled in amusement.


    Moon made of cheese¡­ Honestly.


    Justin moved on after that, focusing on Hope again. "This is going to be a challenging project, but with your expertise in Pym technologies and our combined resources, I''m confident we can make it happen." Hopefully before Stark¡­


    He always kept an eye on the other man, and he''d begun a cooperative mission with NASA, his goals obvious.


    He wanted to beat Justin, get his own resources into space.


    Irritatingly enough, even with the logistical problems he was having with Justin''s intervention, he was quickly acquiring factories and building robotic workers to accelerate his own entrance into new markets.


    Hope smiled, a genuine warmth in her eyes. "Thank you, Justin. I appreciate your support and confidence in me. We''ll make this a success." She said, reaching over and squeezing his hand, "After the way my dad¡­ I just really appreciate that you think I can do it."


    Justin returned her smile, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Together, we''ll change the world." He said grandly, knowing immediately he overdid it again by how her lips twitched.


    Domino, watching from the side, couldn''t help but add one last comment. "And I''ll be here to keep you both grounded. Literally, since you''re talking about space."


    Justin sighed, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Thanks, Domino. We''ll need that." He said dryly.


    Since he only had Hope for a short while, the rest of the day was spent on drafting up the project and what needed to be done on their separate ends.


    Not exactly date night, but Hope seemed happy to sink her teeth into the work.


    And Justin was just relieved to be working with someone who pulled their own weight.


    Her competence made him slightly regret saving Hank''s life.


    But her radiant smile as they finished working, made him happy that he hadn''t harmed her by letting him die.


    Relationships were complicated, he thought idly.


    <hr>


    New York, the next day,


    Justin sat in his office, reviewing files when Yelena walked in - back from her forced vacation, a determined look on her face but a glint of excitement in her eyes. She sat across from him, laying several black folders on the table. "I have what we need to discuss the Black Widows and Dreykov," She said, voice filled with anticipation, making no mention of what happened with Selene.


    Justin would allow it, it wasn''t one of his best moments either, bringing her into that out of arrogance and finding himself lacking.


    He''d neglected personal power, not seeing the point to a certain extent. Figuring he''d never match the worst of the worst, Extremis and the Super Soldier Serum should be enough - he''d been disabused of that notion.


    A normal villain, even a normal corporation or nation - would not kill Justin out of hand, he''d be too useful, his connections, his power, his standing with the regular people of the world. Most threats to him were more likely to attempt to use him to their own advantage then kill him at this point - see HYDRA.


    But he had forgotten about those who just liked seeing the world burn, or those who simply didn''t care about consequences.


    Selene had shown him that he could no longer count on just soft power with a big stick in the Hammer team. He needed to become better, dangerous, unkillable.


    Just another thing on the list, he thought wryly, focusing on Yelena, done ruminating, nodding his head briefly. "I''ve been expecting this. What have you got?"


    An army of Black Widows¡­ Just a week ago that was enough to make him drool. Now, he wondered what use they''d be if a Magneto or Selene decided to put Hammer industries upside down and shake it until all the goodies fell out.


    Still, he''d rather have an army of Black Widows serving him, then against him with his enemies. And they''d still be useful for spycraft, corporate espionage and sabotage - and more mundane concerns.


    Having trusted operatives inside his company that could handle all the sensitive physical information, would be a great addition to his AI handling all the electronic information.


    And they were generally very very fit. And they were all, at minimum, olympic gymnasts.


    It was a vital addition for that alone.


    Yelena opened one of the folders, revealing detailed dossiers and schematics. "As you are aware sir, we have the solution to break Dreykov''s control. Panacea can neutralize the chemical manipulation and reverse the conditioning." Yelena tried to stay stern and professional, but she couldn''t quite keep the smile off her face.


    Justin leaned forward, examining the documents. "Yes, I know. Now we just need a plan to infiltrate the Red Room and administer Panacea to the Widows, preferably across the facility at once, saving us the trouble of fighting them. What''s our approach?"


    Yelena''s eyes sparkled with excitement. "We need a two-pronged attack. First, we need to grab Dreykov''s attention, so he''s focused on something externally. As for the facility, I already have intel on the Red Room''s current location and security measures. Then, while he''s focused elsewhere, we organize a covert strike team to infiltrate and distribute Panacea."


    Needless to say Yelena would be leading that team, a familiar face was necessary to corral the widows at the facility. And then they''d still probably be busy for months collecting those out on missions or deep undercover.


    The advantage they had was that no matter how small the covert strike team was, they''d constantly add to their number everytime they woke up a Widow.


    Dreykov would have to catch on pretty quick to make it anything but a rout.


    Justin nodded along as Yelena showed him the information she''d gathered, his mind already racing with possibilities. "We''ll need to gather as much information as possible about the other facilities, see if we can''t manufacture an incident for Dreykov to focus on. I can deploy some of our best agents to scout and provide real-time intelligence."


    They wouldn''t be as good as Black Widows, but as their only job was scouting, they should suffice. The red room didn''t have an abundance of outside facilities anymore. Didn''t need to because of their flying fortress, but they did still keep some.


    And Justin dearly wanted to poke under the hood of that, because how on earth had he gone undetected?


    HYDRA covering it all up seemed the most likely explanation, but perhaps he had a stealth field. Yelena wasn''t privy to much about its operations, so they''d have to wait until they took over.


    With any luck they could repurpose it to an orbital base.


    Yelena smiled, a mix of anticipation and determination. "They''ll all fight for us, I''m sure, they''ll be thankful to have escaped the mind control, and they''ll be lost and confused, eager to follow me for some direction."


    It was interesting to Justin, to see that dichotomy in Yelena. When done to her or her people, mind control, manipulation, torture or cruelty would have her swear revenge or kill without hesitation.


    When done to others for her benefit or the benefit of her people, she didn''t even blink. Not even seeing it as the same thing. As seen as when she, a woman who was mind controlled, without protest injected a mind control serum in Forge.


    Justin had meant it as another slight test, poking at her loyalty a bit after her reveal, to see if she meant it. But she hadn''t even hesitated.


    Nor did she see an issue apparently in manipulating all the Widows under his aegis because she thought it was best for them.


    Yelena''s excitement was palpable as she continued. "Once they''re free, we can integrate them into Hammer Industries discreetly. They''ll need new identities and roles that allow them to blend in while receiving the support they need."


    Justin doubted they''d need much. Mind controlled or not, they were raised to be like Yelena and Natasha, none of them would be quick to accept therapy or anything of the like. They''d continue as they were. And honestly¡­ It was better that way. For Justin.


    Justin leaned back, he''d already begun some of the legwork internally, or should he say Sunil had. "We''ve already begun creating cover positions in various departments. Administrative roles, research, security - positions that don''t attract too much attention. We''ll provide them with training to transition smoothly into their new lives if necessary."


    They were expert infiltrators, he doubted they''d need it, but it didn''t harm him any to offer it, and would make Yelena all the happier for it.


    Yelena smiled brilliantly, her excitement still evident. "Thank you so much, sir! This means so much to me, freeing them, providing for them. These women are like sisters to me, I understand them in a way I don''t with anyone else, and I''ve been dreaming of this day for a long time."


    What a coincidence, I''ve been dreaming of a hundred gorgeous women who can turn into pretzels all serving me fanatically as well, he thought with some humor, smiling indulgently at Yelena.


    Justin reached out, placing a reassuring hand on her arm. "We''ll get it done, it''s too big of a chance to turn down. Hammer Industries has the resources and the connections - and an influx of personnel won''t be hard to hide with our constant hiring. We just need to be smart and careful to not slide too many of them in at the same time."


    Yelena''s eyes twinkled as her lips curled into a savage smirk, "And I get to rip Dreykov apart and feed the scraps to dogs!" She said cheerfully.


    "After his interrogation." Justin said, giving her a look.


    Yelena pouted. "After his interrogation¡­" She agreed.


    Justin sighed, he could literally see her crossed fingers, she wasn''t even hiding them.


    Why were all his people so troublesome?


    <hr>


    Cairo, Hammer compound.


    Ivan Vanko''s engineering workshop was a chaotic blend of high-tech machinery and improvised solutions, a testament to the genius and madness of its owner. Amidst the clutter, Ivan and Forge were deep in conversation, bottles of vodka scattered around them.


    They''d had to be slightly careful, because Forge wasn''t enhanced; he couldn''t handle Ivan''s super Vodka, meant to affect even Extremis and Super Soldiers. Luckily the liquid glowed slightly now, so it wasn''t too hard to avoid touching the wrong bottles.


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Ivan, his broken accent adding a unique flavor to his words, took a swig from his glowing bottle and pointed at the blueprints spread out on the workbench. "Forge, space dangerous." He said slowly, slapping the blueprint loudly, "Pressure, radiation, cold. We need new technology handle this. To protect people, expand station, maintain station." He slurred out, for the fourth time.


    They''d talked about the dangers of space for some time, then watched Star Wars for a few hours, then drank some more, and now they were back at it.


    Forge, drunk in his own right, nodded, his eyes gleaming with interest even as he struggled to keep them open. "Absolutely, Ivan. We need robust shielding to protect against cosmic radiation and micrometeoroids. I''ve been thinking about using layered composites with self-healing properties."


    Of course he''d have to create them too, but something like that didn''t come difficult to him.


    Even drunk, his thoughts easily flowed when it came to the mechanical. It helped that Ivan actually understood him when he talked too.


    Ivan''s eyes lit up with excitement, guffawing loudly as he slapped the blueprints again. "Da, da! Self-healing materials. Good idea, goood. Must make strong structural supports. Station expand maybe, but stay strong. We use carbon nanotubes, very light, very strong, see maybe Vibranium alloy, must test."


    Forge took a thoughtful sip of half a bottle of vodka, leaning back in his chair, almost falling off it. "And for maintaining the station, we need autonomous systems. Drones and robots that can perform repairs, monitor systems, and ensure everything runs smoothly without constant human intervention." He was working on AI anyway, "Humans are stupid, robots will do a better job." He added, thinking everything would be so much easier if they were all mechanical.


    Except maybe Vodka, he thought, looking at the bottle in his hand, taking another swig. Ivan was so thoughtful to share his stash.


    Ivan grinned, his gold tooth catching the light. He''d had to add gold to one of his teeth as just painted enamel, as Extremis had regrown his bad teeth, knocking his actual gold tooth out, to his dismay. "Yes, drones very useful. We make them smart, give them good AI. They do work outside station, in vacuum. Humans stay safe inside." Ivan chuckled, making a big gesture, "No, how do you say, health and safety boring rules for drone."


    In America he was not even allowed to operate heavy machinery while drunk, stupid rules. Not that Ivan followed those, Hammer didn''t care as long as there were results.


    Besides, Ivan had only lost two and a half assistants.


    That''s barely anything.


    Russian safety standards put hairs on chest, he thought proudly.


    Forge bent down, almost falling over again, jotting down notes in sloppy writing that was completely incomprehensible. "We''ll also need advanced life support systems better than anything that exists currently if we want it to be able to grow and evolve. Recycling air, water, and waste efficiently is our number one priority. We can''t afford to waste anything in space, I can''t wait to mess around with some Pym particles, they''d be perfect for waste." He added the last part in a dark mutter.


    Forge had met Hank Pym once, as a young and bright eyed engineer wannabe that snuck into a conference. Using his particles for shit would be his way to thank the man for trying to shit all over a kid''s dream.


    Ivan nodded vigorously, his wild hair bobbing with the motion. "Da, da! Closed-loop systems. We make sure nothing is wasted. Maybe even grow food on station. Hydroponics, aquaponics."


    That was a given, but Forge could forgive Ivan for stating the obvious. The man was obviously shit faced drunk.


    Forge clinked his bottle against Ivan''s, a grin spreading across his reddened face. "To our success, may our work pave the way for the next generation of space exploration." He yelled out, raising an arm victoriously.


    Ivan and Forge they would say when they spoke of the gods of engineering in the future.


    Ivan laughed loudly, the sound echoing through the workshop. "Da! We will lead way. We have power, we have brains... And we have vodka!" He took a deep drink, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of mischief and anger, "Fuck Tony Stark!" He bellowed loudly.


    "Fuck Tony Stark!" Forge cheered, because why the hell not?


    Just then, the door swung open, and Dr. Otto Octavius stepped in, his eyes widening at the sight before him. "What on earth is going on here?" he exclaimed, his voice a mixture of disbelief and disapproval.


    Ivan and Forge looked up, swaying slightly in their seats. Ivan grinned broadly, raising his bottle in greeting. "Octo! Come, join us! We talk science, make great plans for space station."


    Octavius sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I was hoping to discuss some critical advancements and share ideas, but I see you two have been... Celebrating?"


    Forge, blinking slowly, gesturing for Octavius to come closer. "We''ve made great progress, Doc. Structural supports, autonomous drones, self-healing materials. All to expand and maintain the space station."


    Well they made those earlier, now they''d just mostly been drinking and bragging about making those earlier. But the doc was a stick in the mud, he could tell, so he didn''t bother saying that.


    He''d literally only known him for days and he always wore that stupid frown.


    Octavius moved closer, inspecting the blueprints. Despite his initial dismay, his interest was piqued. "These are impressive concepts," He admitted, adjusting his new HammerTech glasses. "However, you two are hardly in a state to make rational decisions." He finished with his trademark frown.


    Forge just took another swig of his vodka, to find to his dismay it had left him! Who stole the last of his Vodka! He shook the empty bottle, hoping it would show a different result.


    Ivan waved his hand dismissively. "We celebrate success! But ideas still good. Look, see here - carbon nanotubes, very strong, very light, add Vibranium, just little bit make much strong. And drones with AI, do all repairs outside station, very smart, very follow health and safety."


    Octavius shook his head, unable to hide a small smile before his frown slid back on, he didn''t want to encourage the two of them. He could already tell he''d be babysitting a lot. "I can see that you''ve both been quite inspired. But let''s save the vodka for after we''ve finalized these plans. Tomorrow, we''ll go over these ideas with clear minds and ensure everything is sound."


    He didn''t doubt that they were, the two were kindred spirits in a manner, always pushing for the advancement of human knowledge, and they were exceptionally skilled. Enough that Otto for the first time felt that he was the least intelligent man in the room at times - when it came to engineering at least.


    Not a feeling he relished. He would not let these two get too far ahead, he thought, as he glanced at the vodka bottles laying around. The copious amount of vodka bottles.


    Perhaps, a more open mind led to more inspiration?


    <hr>


    New York, BLT market, Ritz-Carlton Hotel.


    Justin Hammer walked into the elegant surroundings of the BLT Market at the Ritz-Carlton, taking a moment to adjust his tie and mentally prepare himself. He scanned the room and quickly spotted Tony Stark, who was already seated at a corner table, flipping through the menu with an air of casual disinterest. Tony looked up, a smirk already forming on his face as he saw Justin approaching.


    Domino hung back, joining the nearby table that already held a stony faced Pepper Potts. He was sure they''d get along just fine.


    And if not, well, Pepper was a big girl, she''d be able to handle Domino''s sass.


    "Justin! Long time no see," Tony called out, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "I almost thought you were avoiding me, or plum forgot that we needed to get a move on for the nice General Ross."


    "Tony," Justin replied, forcing a smile as he sat down. "Always a pleasure."


    A waiter appeared almost immediately as if by magic, eagerly offering menus and taking drink orders. Tony ordered a scotch on the rocks, while Justin opted for sparkling water, not needing any needling from Tony over his alcohol choices, he was here to get things sorted as quickly as possible.


    The less avenues for Tony to be Tony the better.


    "So," Tony began, leaning back in his chair, "What''s new in the world of Hammer Industries? Trying new things I heard, like muscling out the taxi industry? Really? That''s what you''re focusing on?" He mocked lightly.


    Justin''s jaw tightened, but he kept his tone even. "We''re focusing on more innovative projects these days, Tony. Like the one we''re supposed to discuss today."


    He saw no need to discuss his business with this man, especially not something so new as him creating the ride share apps before they would have existed. Tony was annoying enough that if he got a bug in his ass about it, he might try and do the same, only with self-driving cars or robots or something equally frustrating.


    Tony raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by Justin''s attempt to stay professional. "Ah, yes. Mining the nuclear wasteland of Wakanda. Using drone technology. Exciting stuff." He said, sounding anything but excited.


    Justin refrained from saying he had told Justin to meet him here to hammer this deal out¡­


    Justin nodded in the end, trying to steer the conversation back to business. "It is. Given the unique challenges of the environment, our combined resources could make this a very lucrative operation for both of us. Your drones have the precision we need, and Hammer Industries has the heavy-duty machinery to get the job done."


    And if some Vibranium went missing¡­ Well, Hammer Industries only provided the vehicles, surely Tony''s drones were behind that¡­


    Although preferably no one would ever notice him skimming some off the top. Vehicles could hide their own drones after all.


    Tony swirled his drink, his expression thoughtful. "You mean your machinery will break down after five minutes in that radioactive mess, and my drones will be left to do all the actual work." The tiny smirk on his face was altogether too smug for his liking.


    Justin''s smile became a bit strained, he didn''t want to get into it, because it would just make everything take forever, so he didn''t bite. "I think you''ll find our equipment more than capable, Tony." He said, in as friendly of a tone as he could manage, before allowing, "But yes, your drones are essential for the initial surveys and pinpointing the most viable areas to extract resources."


    He couldn''t resist adding to it however, "And of course they are ideal to do the drudge work of digging it all up in the first place, manual labor is best suited for Stark industries isn''t it? While someone more suited refines it."


    Tony took a sip of his drink, his eyes never leaving Justin''s. "Let''s cut to the chase. Why should I trust you, Hammer?" He asked bluntly, eyes narrowing, "There''s a lot you''re not saying about my disappearance and all the events surrounding it. I can do this Wakanda job without you¡­"


    Justin sighed inwardly. This was going to be tougher than he thought - he''d have to be the bigger guy, how annoying. "I get it, Tony. We have a complicated history. But this project is too big and too important to let past rivalries get in the way. We''re talking about vast untapped resources, and more importantly vast resources not given to Norman Osborn. I can''t say anything more than I didn''t have anything to do with your kidnapping, it''s up to you if that''s enough."


    In an ideal world he could keep his distance and just mock Stark from the distance, shooting him down whenever he tried to catch up. But he couldn''t afford to make him into an enemy right now. Rivals sure. But outright making Stark go after him, no.


    He had enough of those at the moment.


    So¡­ To his utter distaste, he had to be the compromising, nice guy. He could already feel an ulcer beginning, Extremis made that impossible, but he could still feel it.


    Tony leaned forward, a glint of genuine interest in his eyes now. "Okay, I''ll bite. What exactly do you want me to do then if we''re going to cooperate?" He said, dropping the accusation and focusing on the work.


    Justin relaxed slightly, feeling like he was finally making progress. "We need Stark Industries'' advanced drone technology to map out the safe zones and navigate the highly radioactive areas. Once we have that data, our teams can deploy the necessary equipment to start the extraction process, ferrying your robotic workforce. It''s a partnership, Tony. We both stand to gain immensely from this."


    He was¡­ Mostly okay with that. For the world, it was better that Tony made some progress then the likes of Oscorp and Roxxon.


    Tony tapped his fingers on the table, considering. "Alright, Hammer. I''ll play ball just because you begged nice and proper for me, but there are going to be some conditions. I want equal oversight on the operation. No funny business, no cutting corners to make an extra buck. And any Vibranium we make from our deal with the military gets split down the middle."


    "Agreed," Justin said quickly, eager to seal the deal, his expression pleasant, even as his insides burned at that begging comment.


    Fuck you Tony!


    "And one more thing," Tony added with a mischievous grin. "I want you to admit, right here and now, that my drones are the best in the business."


    Cocky shit, for something he''d only been producing for a short while¡­ But then again it was Stark made drones, so he knew they were well made.


    Anything that would get him out of here to where they could communicate through operations managers on the ground and not be in the same room ever again, he thought, irritably. Justin resisted the urge to toss his drink in his face, because he wanted to finish this, but it was close. "Fine. Your drones are the best in the business." He droned out monotonously.


    Tony chuckled, clearly enjoying himself. "Good. Now that we''ve got that settled, let''s get this show on the road."


    As they finalized the details of their partnership, Justin couldn''t help but feel a mixture of relief and annoyance. Working with Tony Stark was never easy, but if this cooperation could help secure Hammer Industries Vibranium, then it was worth it. Even if it meant swallowing his pride and dealing with Tony''s relentless teasing.


    After all, business was business, and the potential rewards of this venture were too great to pass up.


    Even if he''d gain an impossible ulcer out of it.


    <hr>


    New York, Hammer Industries Temporary Offices, the next day.


    Justin sat down at his desk, for once alone. He hadn''t realized how rare that actually was, and how much he''d missed just being by himself. Sure, Domino and Yelena were only three doors down going over the plan for the Red Room, but still, he was totally and utterly alone.


    He undid his tie and poured himself a scotch - not Vanko''s super alcohol, so he could only drink it for the flavor and memories attached to it now. But that was plenty enough, he didn''t need to get buzzed.


    Soon enough, his mind strayed, unable to fully relax even now. When he''d taken over this body, his memories had shown a lazy disposition despite all he''d accomplished. He''d, on the other hand, worked hard his entire life and gotten nowhere for it, and he''d found the idea of laziness almost intriguing, but it just seemed he couldn''t follow through.


    Even his lazy moments often had a secondary purpose.


    As now, with him turning his mind to the recent issues. Hansen and Cho couldn''t be taken off the Extremis/Super Soldier conversion, not with the deadline for that. So he was brute-forcing the X-gene Extremis adaptation, which was killing captive mutants rapidly underneath his Cairo compound, but they were making progress.


    They''d be unlikely to get a perfect result. But he didn''t need perfection. He just needed it to work for a few seconds. Enough to knock something loose. Enough to return Eileen to him.


    His teeth ground together as he thought of someone messing with his things. His people. He needed Eileen back so she could tell him who.


    But with Selene also appearing as a threat, albeit a long-distance one, he needed to do something about that as well.


    He''d been joking about finding the Ancient One''s email address, but upon further investigation, it actually appeared to exist. Even if it was absolutely painful to find.


    He was going to use the Hellfire Club, as they no doubt attempted to use him, so it would likely be years until he needed to cleanse that particular issue. But it wouldn''t hurt to build some groundwork right now.


    He slid over to his desk, putting in the Ancient One''s email address (and that still felt somewhat ridiculous to even think of).


    Quickly, he typed up a request for cooperation that seemed humble enough.


    ¡­


    Subject: Request for Assistance and Collaboration


    Dear Ancient One,


    I hope this message finds you well. I am Justin Hammer, CEO of Hammer Industries. Our paths have not crossed directly, but I am well aware of your esteemed position and the invaluable work you and your order perform at Kamar-Taj.


    I write to you today seeking your assistance with a delicate matter that has arisen within my organization and another with complications for the world at large. Firstly, one of my associates, a metahuman named Phantazia, has fallen victim to a subtle type of mind control. This situation is dire and beyond the capabilities of my usual resources to resolve and could potentially also include Magneto as a subject of the same kind of mental control. The individual responsible for this manipulation is still at large, and I am concerned about the potential threat this poses not only to my company but to the wider world.


    I am aware of the exceptional skills and knowledge possessed by the sorcerers under your tutelage, and I humbly request your aid in this matter. Specifically, I seek the temporary assistance of one or two of your sorcerers who could help in protecting my company from further magical intrusions - and assist in the recovery and protection of Phantazia and investigating the trail to ensure Magneto is not under its sway.


    I don''t need to tell you what a threat to the world both physical and mystical someone of Magneto''s caliber could be under the control of some magician.


    In return, I am prepared to offer the full support and resources of Hammer Industries to assist Kamar-Taj. Whether it be through technological advancements and defenses, funding, or any other means you might find beneficial. I am eager to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between us for the betterment of Earth.


    In no way do I intend to step on your toes when it comes to the mystical threats, I simply offer assistance.


    I must also bring to your attention the threat posed by Selene - no last name known - a member of the New York Hellfire Club, a powerful and malevolent and possibly immortal woman, with dark magical abilities. Her presence and actions are a growing concern, and I believe that our collaboration could serve as a bulwark against such threats in the future should she become more active.


    I understand the gravity of what I am asking and the weight of your responsibilities. Nevertheless, I am confident that a partnership between Hammer Industries and Kamar-Taj could yield significant benefits for both parties and contribute to the safety and stability of our world.


    Thank you for considering my request. I look forward to your response and hope we can work together to address these challenges.


    Respectfully,


    Justin Hammer


    CEO, Hammer Industries


    ¡­


    There, that had been humble enough surely? He hit send, confident that at the very least he hadn''t come off as completely self-serving.


    And he hadn''t lied. If she''d accept his help, he''d gladly add defenses to protect the sanctums and Kamar-Taj. Magic, of course, was one thing, but even sorcerers had a hard time casting spells while bullets, lasers, and missiles were flying around their heads.


    Not to mention what a mine could do to an unexpecting demon or enemy who''d trespass somewhere they were not wanted.


    Just then, a swirling portal appeared in the middle of the room, and the Ancient One herself stepped out, clad in a simple beige robe.


    "I just sent the email, there was no need to rush," Justin spluttered out, caught entirely off guard.


    She smiled serenely. "I knew you''d send it at this time, so I was quite prepared for this meeting. You might even say I''ve had it scheduled for over two years now." She finished with a twinkle in her eyes.


    Justin really, really hated magic.


    "Would you like something to drink?" he asked politely instead. Because hatred of magic or not, he wasn''t going to anger the woman capable of turning him inside out.


    "No, thank you," she replied, looking around the office with mild interest. "But I must say, your choice of associates is... Fascinating. Domino and Yelena, both with quite interesting and varied backgrounds. And Vanko, well, he does love his vodka, doesn''t he?" Her smile remained serene, but it was a pointed reminder that she could find out everything about him and his people, so no games.


    Had Justin mentioned he really hated magic?


    That said, she''d either miscalculated or was holding her capabilities back, because he''d been much more impressed if she''d brought up Forge or the employees he stole from Oscorp.


    He''d prefer to think she wasn''t as all knowing as she tried to appear.


    Justin chuckled somewhat nervously either way, because no doubt that''s what she''d wanted to see. "Yes, they''re quite the team. Speaking of which, I could use some help with a few... Peculiar problems. Like I mentioned in the email, we have a situation with Phantazia under mind control and potentially Magneto as well."


    He had his own solution on the way, but if he could get it hand-waved away with an abracadabra, he would take it.


    The Ancient One raised an eyebrow, her expression almost playful. "Ah, but those aren''t magical concerns, Mister Hammer. Those are more in the realm of psionics and mutant¡­ I''m sorry, you''ve changed that haven''t you?" She asked cheerfully, "Metahuman abilities then. Not really our forte."


    Justin''s heart sank slightly, but he kept his expression neutral. "I understand. Thank you for clarifying. Magneto might be a threat even to your people however." He warned, taking a last ditch shot to have one of his problems dealt with.


    She just smiled, looking bemused, "If I were to deal with anyone who could possess a sliver of threat to the order, why, Mister Hammer, I''d start with you."


    Justin felt cold sweat at the back of his neck, "I''m not a threat against Kamar-Taj." He said with conviction.


    "No you''re not." She agreed easily enough, giving him an enigmatic smile, "But you could be. Still want me to deal with Magneto and other non mystical matters?" She asked innocently.


    This woman¡­


    Justin cleared his throat, "I suppose it''s best if we all stay in our lanes." He agreed. Because what else could he say? He switched the subject, not wanting her to linger on the thought of dealing with him. "Selene is another matter entirely and she is definitely magical. Her powers and potential threat level are surely significant."


    Or so he assumed, from the whole immortal thing. He hated the idea of asking for help, but there was also just no point in shooting himself in the foot over some arrogant belief he could simply handle it all himself.


    Selene had already shown him his error there.


    She''d one day pay for that lesson.


    The Ancient One nodded thoughtfully. "Selene Gallio is indeed a concern. Her ambitions and abilities are a threat and we are keeping an eye on her, but your help would be useful. She is the kind of woman who''d never suspect a mundane human to keep an eye on her activities."


    Ah, a last name, so they do know her, he thought. And he was obviously going to be keeping a close eye on Selene regardless, but it would be good if he could call in the cavalry if necessary.


    Justin felt a glimmer of hope that the magic bullshit wouldn''t screw him over too badly. "That would be invaluable. Any help in that regard would be greatly appreciated." He said formally.


    "I''ll assign Kaecillius to assist Hammer Industries for a time," She said thoughtfully, "He can help you establish protections against mystical intrusions and monitor Selene''s activities. Kaecillius is one of our most skilled up and coming new sorcerers, and he is already well inclined to your company."


    Justin could hardly say - why are you dumping your nutjob sorcerer on me? So he just said plainly, "Thank you, Ancient One. Having Kaecillius expertise will be a tremendous asset."


    As long as he doesn''t sacrifice us all to Dormammu, he thought irritably.


    The Ancient One smiled gently. "Our interests align in ensuring the safety and stability of our world. This cooperation will benefit us both. Now, let us discuss the specifics of how Kaecillius can integrate with your team and help provide Kamar-Taj with technology."


    Justin quickly nodded, eager to solidify the arrangement. "Absolutely. We''ve been developing a new type of detection system that can sense esoteric energies, which for all we know could be mystical energies and anomalies. Perhaps Kaecillius can help refine these systems and integrate them into your existing defenses."


    The system was actually meant for space, to help detect any possible incoming threats, but if it could be tweaked to detect mystical issues and incursions. All the better.


    Justin didn''t want a demon invasion or something to add on-top his worries. The aliens were enough of an issue. Humanity was enough of an issue. He really needed the magic people to just keep their insanity to themselves.


    The Ancient One listened intently, even though she looked wholly unsurprised. "That sounds promising. Kaecillius will coordinate with your technical specialists to ensure these measures work, and that they can not easily be corrupted."


    Justin hadn''t even realized that could be a problem. Just by detecting magic he risked some type of incursion? This just solidified that magic was entirely too dangerous to mess with.


    "Thank you," Justin said, genuinely grateful, "One more thing - Selene. If she becomes a more immediate threat, will you be able to help us deal with her?"


    Or preferably, entirely deal with her. Justin wanted his own measure of revenge on her for the humiliation, and the damage done to Yelena, but he''d settle for having her entirely removed.


    The Ancient One''s expression grew more serious, though a hint of amusement lingered. "Selene is a powerful foe, but not invincible. Should she pose an immediate threat to Earth, we will act to neutralize her. For now, vigilance and preparation are key."


    That wasn''t really a yes, Justin thought with annoyance.


    She was basically telling him that if Selene wanted to wear his intestines as a necklace she wouldn''t intervene, but if she wanted to blow up the Earth''s core, she''d lend a hand.


    Not much of an alliance.


    The Ancient One seemed to have sensed his mood, because she laughed lowly, "You''re not oft used to a deal where you are not the greatest victor, are you Mister Hammer?"


    He gave her an irritated look, not really wanting to get into it with her. They''d arranged a deal, he''d hold up his end.


    She smiled, tilting her head, "Nothing wrong with a deal where both prosper." She chided, before stepping back into the swirling portal, their meeting over.


    "Kaecillius should be with you shortly." She promised cheerfully, before the portal winked out.


    He leaned back in his chair, taking a moment to savor the scotch he''d poured earlier. He''d almost take dealing with that arrogant Doctor Strange over this mysteriously smiling woman.


    She always looked like she knew too much.


    Just as he was about to take another sip, the portal reappeared, and Kaecillius stepped out, ready for his assignment - when the Ancient One had said shortly, she''d meant it. Justin stood up, ready to greet him and take his measure.


    Only to have him immediately fall to his knees.


    "Justin Hammer, I owe you everything for saving my child." He said, looking up, a fanatical look on his face.


    Justin''s heart sank, the Ancient One had tricked him.


    This wasn''t help.


    This was another fucking fanatic for him to babysit.


    It was that time that Yelena came to check on him, and finding a strange man in his office that had somehow snuck past all their security - promptly shot him.


    This is my people¡­ I did this to myself.


    <hr>


    It turned out that Kaecillius was not quite the badass villain of the future.


    The Ancient One had looked through her repository of Sorcerers and literally tossed him one of the newest ones, even if he was one she''d been personally tutoring.


    "Tell me again." He said, massaging his brow, as Domino and Yelena stood by him, both warily watching the man, who''d received a Panacea shot to heal the gunshot wound Yelena had given him.


    The - was going to be fatal - gunshot wound. She was lucky they had Panacea shots in the office.


    He didn''t necessarily disagree with her assertion that random unknowns in his office were a threat. But he''d really really not want to send the Ancient One another email. This time explaining they''d accidentally murdered her wizard not even ten minutes in.


    Then again she probably fucking knew about it and still sent Kaecillius in at that time¡­ Fucking wizards.


    Kaecillius, looking significantly more composed after the Panacea had worked its miracle, began his explanation."I joined Kamar-Taj in search of a cure for my comatose daughter, who had been severely injured in the accident that took the rest of our family," Kaecillius began, his voice steady but filled with emotion.


    Justin was pretty sure they were all supposed to have died, from what he remembered. Although it''s possible one butterfly over the last few years from his many moves all over the globe, had changed that.


    "I thought I could find ways to bring the dead back, to undo the tragedy that befell us." He continued almost reverently, and Justin could see the man that would once have called on Dormammu. "The Ancient One offered guidance, but it was your creation, Panacea, that saved my daughter." At this, he bowed his head, thankfully not falling to his knees again.


    Yelena raised a skeptical eyebrow. Still not convinced solely based on him getting in alone to see him, "Panacea?"


    Kaecillius nodded, a fervent look to him. "Yes, Hammer Industries miracle drug. When I heard about its capabilities, I knew it was my only hope, and it worked. It brought my daughter back from the brink. For that, I am eternally grateful."


    Domino leaned against the wall, her expression one of acceptance, she obviously believed him, which did help soothe Justin''s paranoia too. Not that he took her acceptance the same way he''d used to before Yelena snuck through it. "So, you''re here because of that? To help us because we saved your kid?" She asked casually.


    Kaecillius looked at her, then at Justin. "Yes. The Ancient One believes that my skills and gratitude might be of use to you. I am here to offer my assistance in whatever capacity you need. My loyalty to Kamar-Taj remains, but I owe you a debt that I intend to repay."


    Justin needed someone like him, for all that he wasn''t more than a rookie. So there was really only one answer.


    "Welcome aboard. Domino will take you through our security screening and then get you set up in Cairo for now, we''ll talk more later."


    As with so many things lately, it wasn''t ideal. But progress, even if in small increments, was still progress.


    And he''d be able to build a rapport with Kamar-Taj which could be useful down the road.


    <hr>


    New York, Hammer Industries Temporary Offices, later that night.


    Justin had barely sat down again at his desk to catch his breath from the multitude of phone calls and video conferences he''d been doing to move his company forward - when Yelena burst into the room with a look of determination on her face. Before he could protest, she grabbed him by the arm and pulled him out of his chair..


    The determination was definitely cute and a bit hot, he thought, so he allowed himself to be dragged.


    Normally he preferred to be in charge, but if she wanted this so badly, he''d come along.


    "We''re having a movie night," she announced, dragging him toward the lounge area, completely shattering his thoughts about the real purpose of her manhandling.


    "Wait, what?" Justin spluttered, trying to keep up with her. "I''ve got work to do, Yelena."


    Some breaks for¡­ Fun¡­ Could be allowed, but a movie night? Not nearly fun enough to skip out on work for. He had calls to make, people to bully now that Fury was officially out, he needed to get a meeting with Pierce, for various reasons, SHIELD only being one of them.


    He was busy, to say the least.


    "Work can wait. You need to relax," Yelena insisted with a stubborn look on her face, pushing him onto the couch with a surprising amount of force for her size.


    Well, she was a Black Widow¡­ He did find it amusing how much she could flip between being all yes sir, no sir - to this.


    Justin sighed, knowing there was no point in arguing, but he had a small smile on his face. He watched as Yelena dashed out of the room, only to return ten minutes later with a massive armful of snacks and drinks, some spilling on the ground as she rushed forward. She was now wearing an adorably cute fluffy set of pink girly pajamas decorated with little bunnies, complete with matching bunny slippers and a headband with bunny ears, which made Justin raise an eyebrow in amusement.


    She really was a complex woman, he thought, never having met someone with so many facets to their personality.


    "Nice outfit," he commented wryly, earning a playful glare from Yelena, even as she did a little twirl, Justin having to hold back a laugh as he noticed her bottom had a puff of a bunny tail on it as well.


    Domino sauntered in shortly thereafter, obviously having been roped into it by Yelena as well, finding the whole scene amusing if her facial expression was any tell. She was dressed in a silky smooth set of pajamas that looked more like something from a high-end fashion show than something for lounging - an elegant deep purple nightie with black lace trim, complete with a matching robe. She tossed a pair of pajama pants and a shirt at Justin carelessly, sauntering up to them.


    Justin eyed her long legs, by habit, he couldn''t help it, she had legs for days.


    "Here, boss. Get comfy," Domino said with a smirk, and he noticed that she still was armed, the thigh holster a good choice, he thought.


    "Seriously?" Justin asked, holding up the pajamas, compared to the girls, his was completely plain and boring, it wasn''t even silk, did they just grab some wage slaves'' clothes?


    "Seriously," Yelena replied, already building a pillow fort around the couch with an efficiency that was both impressive and slightly concerning. "We''re going all out." She said enthusiastically, "A real American movie night/sleepover!" She enthused.


    Domino eyed her, lips curling into bemusement, "You''ve watched too many movies and TV shows, ''Lena."


    Justin watched in bewilderment as Yelena set about her task. She moved the coffee table out of the way and began stacking pillows from the nearby couches and chairs, creating walls. She draped blankets over the top to form a roof, securing them with clips she''d apparently brought along just for this purpose. Domino, meanwhile, was lounging inside the growing fort, offering occasional sarcastic commentary on her progress.


    With a resigned sigh, Justin went to change, emerging a few minutes later in the pajamas. Yelena had completed the pillow fort, and Domino was already making herself comfortable inside, looking perfectly at ease.


    Justin climbed into the fort, feeling slightly ridiculous but oddly relaxed. "Okay, what are we watching?" He asked, because he was definitely vetoing this entire thing if he was going to be forced to sit through something too ridiculous.


    Yelena''s face lit up with excitement. "We have a lot of options! Action, comedy, horror, sci-fi, you name it."


    Justin was pretty sure they hadn''t had any movies actually, but apparently Yelena had gone and bought a bunch, a waste of money really, considering he was making streaming apps the new thing shortly.


    Domino rolled her eyes. "Please, no horror. I''d like to sleep tonight without dreaming of whatever monstrosities you pick." She sent him a sly look, "Besides, we wouldn''t want the boss to get scared¡­"


    Justin just gave her a deadpan look, "I''ve walked in on Vanko naked and doing things to a vodka bottle, Stephen King won''t frighten me."


    Yelena huffed, completely ignoring Justin''s horrible experience. "Fine, no horror. How about a romcom?" She looked at them hopefully, eyes wide, lower lip jutting out.


    Domino looked horrified. "I''d rather die than watch romance - especially a romcom." She said, utterly serious.


    Justin laughed, amused despite his initial reluctance. "Alright, how about we compromise? Something classic?" He asked them.


    Domino crossed her arms, "Depends on what you mean by classic. If you say ''Gone with the Wind, I''m out."


    Yelena brightened up. "What about a Disney movie? They''re classics, fun, and have a bit of everything." She suggested, snuggling into Justin''s arm, looking up at him pleadingly.


    Justin nodded, leaning back into the pillows. "I could go for some Disney." He allowed, feeling quite relaxed.


    Domino sighed dramatically. "Fine, but if it''s a musical, I reserve the right to throw popcorn at both of you."


    Yelena grabbed the remote and started scrolling through the options she''d purchased. "How about The Lion King? It''s got action, drama, and some good laughs."


    Justin shrugged. "Sounds perfect." He said, not overly caring, it was decent enough to not offend his sensibilities, even if it felt ridiculous to sit and watch a cartoon.


    As the opening credits rolled, they settled into the pillow fort. Yelena snuggled into her bunny pajamas with a bowl of popcorn, leaning into his arm, Domino lounged elegantly in her silky set with a glass of wine she''d gotten somehow without Justin noticing, and Justin found himself genuinely relaxing for the first time in ages.


    They laughed, argued about the plot, and made fun of the characters. For a few hours, they were just three people enjoying a movie night, far removed from the stress and danger of their usual lives. And for Justin, it was a reminder that sometimes, even in the chaos, there could be moments of simple joy.


    That night he slept without obsessively thinking on the next step, for the first time in over two years.


    <hr>

 Everything is SUPER!

    <hr>


    July 21st, 2008, New York,


    The bright lights of the late-night TV studio beamed down on Justin as he sat comfortably in the guest chair, his confident demeanor and sharp suit making him look every bit the charismatic billionaire. The backdrop of the show featured the city skyline, illuminated in vibrant hues, adding to the glamorous atmosphere. The host, an up and coming interviewer and late night personality known for her wit and charm, (and giant assets) leaned forward with a welcoming smile. Just coincidentally showing off a lot of cleavage.


    "Welcome to the show, Justin," She began, her voice full of enthusiasm. "It''s great to have you here tonight.


    She''d beaten out a dozen other candidates through sheer effort and use of connections. That and Justin always prefered being in a room with a hot blonde.


    "Thank you, it''s great to be here," Justin replied, his tone smooth and polished, he flashed her a suave smile enjoying the hint of want in her eyes. That want had nothing to do with his looks.


    She was a career climber, a child star and model that married rich, was widowed even richer, and kept finding herself promoted higher into the entertainment industry using her late husband''s money and influence. Justin was like catnip to a woman like this.


    Not bad for a woman only married for six months. But then he had been seventy-six.


    Hence why he had picked her show above all the others - because he knew she''d accommodate anything he wanted. Her scramble to get him, blowing favors right left and center when she hadn''t needed to, only amused him further.


    "Let''s dive right in," Patricia Walker, the host, said, settling into her chair. "You''ve made quite a name for yourself in the business world, some would say the name, even. Can you tell us more about your latest ventures?"


    Justin smirked, casually leaning forward over the arm of his chair. "Absolutely. Hammer Industries is at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and defense solutions as you know, the military, FBI and police services across the United States and abroad - are drowning us in contracts. Yet you''re not interested in all that military stuff are you? So let''s move on to something more suited to your viewers, "He said with a wink, continuing on, "We''ve recently launched a trial app in certain cities, bringing personal choice even closer to all consumers - food delivery, and ride hailing, giving everyone with a car a chance to earn an extra buck on the side - while giving Americans the choice of their whole city and its delights at their fingertips."


    Only available on H-phones of course. And by the time any kind of lawsuit over that wound it''s way through the courts, he''d have even greater market dominance anyway and it wouldn''t matter if he had to spread it to every provider afterwards.


    The host nodded, impressed. "That''s fascinating, is that important to you then, choice?" She said sweetly, "It seems to be a recurring theme for some of the advances Hammer industries has brought the world."


    Justin swept an arm out grandly, "Choice is the ultimate goal, my dear. What is life with only one path before you? With Hammer industries, no matter what walk of life, what industries, we offer choices - a way to save money, earn extra, live life to the fullest, experience new things." He swept his eyes across the small audience, a playful smirk on his lips, "It also gives the people that which they can''t get anywhere else. Time. With just a simple app, you can order dinner, and spend your time on some other pursuit while it''s taken care of for you. You need to go somewhere? Someone in your area will be ready to pick you up and get you there, cheaply, and speedily. Don''t want to go through hours of grocery shopping? Make your list, and someone else picks it up and delivers it for you."


    Patricia let out a gasp of amazement, that if he hadn''t seen her practice it before they went on air, even he would have believed was real, "It really seems like Hammer Industries are working for the people, giving them jobs and choices, not to mention how you''ve cured disease practically overnight." She gushed, the audience breaking out into wild applause.


    It might be droll, doing these kinds of fake shows, but the sad reality of humanity was that these things worked.


    Patricia (call me Trish) Walker was temporarily a hit - the new flavor - so he''d take advantage of her five minutes of fame to push his thoughts and vision onto more people. Furthering his own fame and selling more of his products.


    Justin kept his practiced smile on, nodding genially, "Unlike many other businesses, we aren''t all about the money, we give back, because without the people supporting us, we would be nothing, Hammer industries is all about helping you."


    The fact people believe a word of anything I just said proves beyond a doubt that people should be required to have a licence to be allowed to breed. He thought, pleased it continued to be easy to earn the people''s praise, but annoyed at how stupid they really were.


    "Aren''t you worried about rivals getting ahead? What''s stopping some of your unscrupulous fellow business moguls from copying this app you''ve created and running with it?" Trish asked, putting on a worried mien, Justin particularly liked her adding the epithet unscrupulous to his rivals.


    Justin smiled somewhat pityingly, "Ah, my rivals won''t succeed my dear, they might attempt it, but since they''re all about the profit, they''ll cut corners and rush out an inferior product." He leaned back in his chair, laying his hands in his lap, for all intents and purposes, entirely relaxed - answering a few more easy questions on how his app would work and which cities it was available in.


    The truth was that no competitor could make something like Uber make money as things stood right now. Not with Justin competing with lower prices and offering Panacea to all employees, even gig ones if they stay in the position long enough. For him, it was barely an expense, it didn''t cost him anywhere near as much to make as what he sold it for. And the loyalty it bought was priceless.


    Where he came from, the food delivery and ride sharing apps weren''t even making a profit, he likely would struggle to do the same with such a thin profit margin, but that''s where he could continue where his rivals could not. The grocery side of things might push him closer to the margins at least. Either way it didn''t matter.


    Because he didn''t care if he lost a hundred million or so a year on this once it got going.


    He just wanted everyone to use his products. Which eventually would roll into the everything app once it was ready. The amount of data and surveillance he could get on these people through his AI was well worth the cost.


    "Now, we can''t have you on the show without mentioning Tony Stark. There''s been quite a rivalry between the two of you. How do you feel about him and his work?" Trish asked almost conspiratorially, leaning in closer.


    Justin''s expression shifted to one of mild condescension, a slight smirk playing on his lips. "Tony Stark is a talented engineer, no doubt about that, we all know that obviously. But let''s be honest, his approach is... Let''s say, a bit reckless. He loves the spotlight, but at Hammer Industries, we focus on practical solutions that benefit everyone, not just flashy headlines."


    Trish giggled, raising a hand to her mouth, "He must be terribly disappointed then on how the spotlight has rested solely on yourself as of late?"


    Justin shrugged, casual as could be, "I don''t spend a lot of time worrying about what Tony Stark thinks, I''m here to bring choice and better living to humanity, he¡­" He paused, frowning minutely, "I''m sorry I haven''t paid attention to such a minor rival as of late, Does he do anything except sell bombs anyway?"


    Trish cleared her throat, making a show of looking at the purely decorative stack of papers in front of her, "I believe he is entering the consumer electronics market like yourself."


    Justin smirked, "Oh? I hadn''t noticed."


    There was an oooohh from the audience, and Justin held back the instinctive reaction to preen at the attention.


    Trish raised an eyebrow, visibly intrigued by his candor (or already counting her viewership numbers skyrocketing) "Interesting perspective." She murmured, barely able to hold back a grin, "Now, onto a lighter topic. There have been rumors swirling about a potential romance between you and Hope Van Dyne. Any truth to that?"


    Justin''s smile remained, but there was a noticeable shift in his demeanor, a calculated refusal to be drawn into personal matters - especially his love life of all things. "Hope is an incredible businesswoman and a good friend. I have immense respect for her and her work with Pym Technologies. But as for personal relationships, I prefer to keep those private. I''m here to talk about business and innovation, not tabloid fodder."


    That had not been on the list of approved questions¡­ Someone was getting a little too comfortable, he thought, meeting the hosts eyes, impressing his dissatisfaction with her antics through his eyes.


    The host, sensing his reluctance to delve into his personal life, smoothly transitioned. "Fair enough. Let''s talk about the future. What''s next for Justin Hammer and Hammer Industries?"


    Justin''s face eased once again, enthusiasm returning to his voice, albeit entirely faked. "The future is incredibly exciting. We''re looking into more advanced consumer technologies, more choice in the entertainment industry, and even space exploration - we''re even exploring a humane way to fix the prison issues facing this country. Hammer Industries is committed to leading the way in innovation and making a real impact on the world, we''re here to save the world, all of us together."


    All of you, for me¡­


    The host smiled, wrapping up the segment. "Thank you, Justin, for sharing your vision with us. It sounds like you have some groundbreaking projects on the horizon."


    "Thank you for having me," Justin replied, his charm undiminished. "It''s been a pleasure."


    As the cameras panned out and the show went to a commercial break, Justin''s confident smile remained firmly in place, even as he pierced the ambitious late night host with an even stare.


    He''d achieved what he wanted. Further spreading the word about how his company was the future, working for all of humankind, and had gotten a few digs in at Stark and his rivals to boot.


    But he had not appreciated Hope being brought into it.


    She smiled nervously, having realized her mistake doubtlessly, a climber like her couldn''t get where they were without being quick on the uptake. "Mister Hammer, I have refreshments in my suite, please let me apologize for going off script." She said quietly, her mic turned off.


    Justin''s eyes narrowed, but his smirk grew, well¡­ We''ll see how good she apologizes¡­


    ¡­


    Two hours later,


    Justin fixed his tie as he exited the studio, Domino trailing behind him. He''d been forced to have another suit delivered. His first had been in no condition to wear in public.


    Patricia was a fun little diversion, it had been interesting being able to let go to that extent. It was interesting to see such a confident woman have a thing for submission.


    Although a normal woman seemed to have issues with his Extremis enhanced body now that he had the perfected formula. Something he''d have to watch out for even further when he became a full on super.


    He didn''t have anything against killing someone. But pointless killings? Such as accidentally breaking a woman once he had super strength? He loathed the loss of control something like that would signify.


    "Bit rougher than usual, feeling stressed?" Domino teased, a playful smirk on her face. "I almost expected you to ask me to bring you a whip."


    Justin glanced at her, annoyed, "You know, you don''t have to always be in the same room as me, you voyeur!" He snarked, not wanting to admit he''d forgotten about her until he was already far into it.


    Domino shrugged, still smirking, "Au contraire, I do have to be in the same room, it''s in my contract. That''s the whole point." She fired back.


    "Yet you don''t follow me into the bathroom, so you could have quite left me alone to discuss things with Patricia¡­ What was her last name again?" Justin asked, brow furrowed, not sure if he was ever told.


    Not that it really mattered.


    She''d get a hand up like she wanted, she''d performed admirably enough.


    Domino laughed quietly, "Ah, I''m sure her last name doesn''t matter." She said flippantly, before leaning in, a cheshire grin blooming onto her face, "You want me to follow you into the bathroom is that it? Hold the little hammer for you?" She cooed, daring him to order her.


    Justin gave her a deadpan look, "I don''t understand you at all."


    "Oh, good. I''m doing my job right." She said smugly, opening the door for him, as he slid into his limo.


    "You''re doing something alright." He muttered, shaking his head, putting it out of his mind, Domino would be Domino.


    He focused on his implant and his glasses flashed as he began working through his inbox.


    <hr>


    15 minutes later,


    Justin let out a pleased hiss, "Fucking finally!" Slamming a fist into the seat next to him.


    His spies keeping a watchful eye on Tony Stark, and specifically his spies watching his Malibu Mansion - reported lift off.


    Tony fucking Stark was finally flying out as Iron Man, even if just test flights.


    Four plus months late, but he was finally doing it.


    It must be Yinsen''s influence. His own dominance on the world economy might have delayed him slightly as he began ramping up inventions and production, but not for this long.


    Tony after all didn''t actually run his company, so after the first invention binge, he should have come back to his suit, even if he didn''t end up using it to flee his incarceration, surely he couldn''t forget about it?


    Yet he''d waited and waited, until Justin was about ready to straight up ask the man what was taking so goddamn long.


    Yinsen must be the spoke in the wheel. He''s a doctor. Stark''s condition wasn''t exactly suited for going flying in a metal suit. And Yinsen might be the only doctor he actually trusted. Justin felt it must be true, because he had no other explanation.


    He knew from his clinics that Stark had gone under the knife this month, so now fully healed it seemed he''d been able to convince Yinsen to let him loose.


    It couldn''t be the chameleon again that was behind the changed behavior, he was keeping a tight eye out for that bastard, as hard as it was to watch for shapeshifters and the like. He would catch him one day.


    Just like Stane, and Shaw, and others like them, he would extract a measure of satisfaction from them.


    He sent a message to Sunil, keep an eye on the middle east, especially Gulmira, I want to know everything.


    If Stark would follow the same pattern, he would be ready to take advantage.


    Anything he could do to inconvenience the bastard - while still using his intellect for humanity, was worthwhile in his opinion.


    Just then he got a message from Xavier, flashing across his glasses.


    Erik and the Brotherhood have completely disappeared, haven''t found any sign.


    Just lovely.


    Once again Charles Xavier turned out to be utterly useless at the one thing he''s supposed to have some skill in - dealing with Magneto.


    No matter, Shaw and Emma were looking into it as well, the Hellfire club having some uses. It would have been more helpful if Selene cared enough to assist. But Justin wasn''t going to push the insane sorceress.


    They were also looking into the whole Wakanda situation, as official avenues had found nothing.


    Perhaps Shaw and Emma would have more luck?


    It didn''t hurt to try anyway.


    He settled in for the ride, going through emails and documents mentally, work never ended.


    <hr>


    Washington DC, later that day.


    Justin detested magic. Even the idea of it. How illogical it was, how inherently chaotic it was.


    But he couldn''t disapprove of skipping the whole process of flying around in a vulnerable metal tube - versus Kaecillius doing some funny motions and bringing him from New York to Washington DC in seconds.


    He stepped through into his Washington office, shoulders slumping slightly as he faced reality. His entourage all came through after him, Kaecillius closing the glowing and swirling portal with a gesture.


    "You¡­ Will be teaching me that." Justin drawled out, painfully.


    He didn''t like it at all. But instant transportation¡­ He would be an utter fool to not take advantage.


    Kaecillius sunk to one knee immediately, "With pleasure Master Hammer."


    One eyebrow twitched, as Justin held back his instinctive response. "Yes¡­ Well¡­ Get up, people here don''t take kindly to kneeling people." He snapped.


    He didn''t overly mind being called Master, but the kneeling thing would definitely draw questions even from his staff if they saw it. The pure fanaticism was almost par for the course. Cho was well known by now amongst higher ups in the company.


    Speaking of¡­.


    Helen Cho, whom had apparently been waiting at the doorway of the room for their arrival, practically vibrated on the spot, watching Kaecillius and him with wide eyes and a delighted smile.


    Just¡­ Perfect..


    "Helen, what are you doing in Washington?" He asked, while glancing at Yelena out of the corner of his eyes. And why wasn''t I aware?


    Yelena just looked at him innocently, which in itself told him she had a hand in informing the good doctor of their arrival. Why else would she have no reaction to the magic portal they arrived in.


    That said, he''d believed she was in New York, so how had she gotten here so quickly?


    "I have so much good news!" Cho said excitedly, clapping her hands together, coming into the room, her eyes staring at him adoringly. "... Should I kneel too?" She asked coyly, glancing at Kaecilius with interest.


    "No!" "Yes, it''s only proper." Justin said sternly at the same time as Yelena sniffed imperiously and responded completely differently.


    "Yelena¡­" He growled warningly.


    The problem with punishing that woman was that she enjoyed punishment far too much, and he wasn''t willing to go to the lengths where she''d honestly hate it. Hence she''d recently begun spending too much time making sure he was venerated enough by the staff.


    Which again, in principle he didn''t have much against.


    Except for when it came to the true fanatics and their headache inducing actions. Like Kaecillius and Cho.


    "I''m sorry Mister Hammer, I''m just ensuring your loyal staff is available to report in person on important discoveries." Yelena said sweetly, hands held demurely behind her back.


    Justin snorted, but let it go, no matter what, Helen Cho was a hassle to deal with, so Yelena''s meddling didn''t change much, "What is the news, Helen?" He asked, holding back a sigh as she swiftly knelt before him.


    Flashes of memories of Helen Cho on her knees really didn''t help him either.


    "We have succeeded in incorporating the Super Soldier Serum and Extremis together!" She said squirming in place, looking up at him excitedly. "Out of the last 50 test subjects, not a single one died!"


    Justin let out a sigh of relief, one problem dealt with. "Bucky Barnes?" He asked immediately.


    Helen smiled adoringly, "Just waiting for your word. Doctor Hansen is ready to administer, the subject has begrudgingly approved of the procedure."


    Justin had a feeling Bucky would, as afraid as he was of the possibility of his mind fully restored, the chance his trigger words wouldn''t work anymore on a fully healed brain - was worth the attempt.


    Justin ignored everyone else to call Maya through his glasses. These kinds of orders were not ones you made through e-mail or proxies. He''d specifically arranged his company and labs so, that way no one was able to go around him for the most important decisions.


    "Yes, sir?" Maya answered promptly, having obviously been waiting on his call.


    "Cho told me, you have authorization, tell me immediately after your post treatment tests have been completed." Justin said swiftly, Maya, not wasting time, simply acknowledged the order and hung up.


    Justin had to prevent himself from doing a little dance. He had an audience. The Super Soldier serum mixed with Extremis might not make him an equal to the worst the world had to offer - but it was a good start.


    "Helen, if it all works out, schedule me for the end of the week, move on to Yelena and my personal security team afterwards." Justin ordered, before his eye twitched at seeing her still on her knees, "And get off your knees woman!" He barked at her.


    He''d be meeting with Hope later before their big end of the month reveal - he''d think about offering her the same in the meanwhile. He knew she had the suit, but he still would like her to be able to protect herself better.


    He knew better than to suggest she was incapable and needed protection. But he was still worried. Shaw was likely not the only one who saw her as a valuable hostage, and the last thing he needed was Hank Pym imploding because someone touched his daughter.


    Helen Cho rose gracefully, the adoring look never once falling off her face, standing before him demurely, her hands clasped in front of her, "It will be done ~sir!" She chirped.


    Justin let out a huff of air, smiling despite himself. Helen might be aggravating in her devotion, but it was hard to be truly upset with someone who worshiped you. "And Helen, if you want the treatment after, it''s available to you as well, we need to keep you safe, hmm?"


    Helen practically melted on the spot, a goofy smile on her face, "Yes, my lo- y-yes sir!" She stuttered out.


    Yelena stepped in, knowing Justin was on a tight schedule in Washington today. "Helen, why don''t you show Kaecillius around, he has nothing to do until he''s transporting master Hammer back tonight." She suggested with a small coy grin on her face.


    Justin closed his eyes, pinching the bridge of his nose. Yelena was an amazing woman, and did absolutely incredible work for him in regards to his business and affairs. But he was realizing her intentions towards him were perhaps a little too helpful.


    Helen squeaked, glaring at Yelena, "Why do you get to call him master!?"


    "No one is calling me master!" Justin broke in to say, glaring at Yelena, before immediately turning on Kaecillius and glaring him into submission.


    The sorcerer showed some common sense, and closed his mouth with a snap, before he could make the situation more comical.


    Which did absolutely nothing in the end as Helen Cho brightly grabbed him by the arm, escorting him out, while talking rapidly, and he was sure he heard the word master, several times in that short time.


    "Must you?" He said long sufferingly to Yelena.


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    She grinned cheekily, "Sir, it''s my duty to ensure the staff is loyal to you." She protested.


    Even though he was annoyed, he let it go. He''d learned from the man Justin Hammer was before. Controlling his staff with an iron fist only created resentment and disloyalty. Allowing them to have their little fun in a way that didn''t actually harm him in any way except for occasional irritation - was worth it.


    He was also loath to actually punish her for some minor teasing, both because of her usefulness and because he enjoyed her company, teasing and all.


    One only had to look at Domino to see the benefits of allowing some teasing. She was utterly irreverent - and utterly effective.


    He knew he''d garnered her loyalty with his easy going manner with handling her. She didn''t solely work for her enormous pay anymore.


    So he''d let this go.


    As long as it remained minor, and to his benefit.


    It didn''t make it less annoying.


    He really hoped Helen and Kaecillius together wouldn''t spawn some unholy abomination in his name or something...


    <hr>


    Triskelion, Washington DC.


    In the heart of the Triskelion, the imposing headquarters of SHIELD, Justin walked with an air of self-assurance - these were the people meant to stop someone like him, and here he was, walking in like he owned it. The corridors buzzed with activity more so than ever, everyone knowing that with Fury gone - changes were coming.


    Agents moved purposefully albeit with a measure of stress visible, while the latest in high-tech surveillance and security systems kept a watchful eye over everything. Although if he wasn''t mistaken, there was a little bit¡­ Less personnel around here at the upper levels, he wondered at that¡­.


    Couldn''t just go quietly Fury, eh?


    He made his way to the top of the Triskelion where Alexander Pierce waited for him in his obnoxiously large office.


    Pierce stood as Justin entered, extending a hand in greeting, coming around his desk to meet him halfway. "Justin, it''s good to see you. Please, have a seat." He said affably, gesturing to a few chairs set to the side.


    Making a point to be friendly, instead of showing off behind his desk, Justin thought, smiling pleasantly.


    It seemed he wasn''t the only one with an agenda today¡­


    Justin accepted the handshake and settled into one of the leather chairs, noting the room''s understated yet undeniable authority, a reflection of Pierce himself in a way. "Likewise, Alexander. I appreciate that you made time for me in your no doubt hectic schedule."


    Pierce smiled, though his eyes remained calculating. "Thank you. And I appreciate you adding your vote to the consensus when the opportunity came up. Times are changing as we speak. As you know, Nick Fury has been relieved of his duties, and I have stepped down from my position to assume control of SHIELD, directly."


    HYDRA can''t afford playing the long game anymore. Justin interpreted that move as. They weren''t waiting around for Zola''s project. They recognized the world was changing too fast.


    A pity.


    It would have made it easier for him in the end if they had put all their eggs in Project Insights basket.


    Justin nodded, already aware of this. "Big changes indeed." He murmured, cocking his head, "I haven''t seen a report on how that dismissal went?" He questioned shrewdly, eyeing Pierce.


    He couldn''t imagine they''d take the risk of Nick Fury running around outside their influence.


    Pierce winced slightly, almost imperceptibly. "Ah, yes¡­ We haven''t had the chance to forward that report to the council yet... Fury disappeared with about a hundred agents so far."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, almost amused, "Really, that sounds like an interesting story. Barton, Romanoff?" He asked, wondering what on earth they were thinking they would achieve moving so openly.


    They''d practically just handed HYDRA the reins without a fight.


    Pierce looked marginally cheerful at that, "They were not part of the exodus." The humor in his voice didn''t match the dark look in his eyes.


    Justin again wondered what the hell was going on with Fury''s mind. Because Pierce would never trust that those two weren''t his to the hilt. So they''d make for some really crappy double agents. And that was if Pierce didn''t have them killed.


    "Coulson, Hill?" He asked, rubbing his chin, his gaze thoughtful, this entire thing changed everything - including his entire game plan for what he came here for.


    Fuck you Fury, even out of the picture, you''re still fucking with me, he thought with chagrin.


    "One gone, one stayed on, Hill is a dependable woman." Pierce said sarcastically, the both of them sharing incredulous smiles. Both of them were thinking the same thing no doubt. Really Nick?


    Justin leaned back in the chair, gathering his thoughts, this would be delicate now, short term it could actually be good for him - long term it absolutely sucked.


    Nazis, no matter what kind, or what shape they took, just weren''t kosher.


    Pierce leaned forward, his expression earnest yet shrewd. "Justin, you''ve always been a man of vision, someone who understands the importance of control and influence." He said lowly, meeting his gaze, "SHIELD needs allies who think beyond the obvious. We''re looking to build a new world order, one where stability and security are paramount."


    Justin listened carefully, his expression attentive but noncommittal. "Go on." He said, a rotten feeling in his gut, here was the pitch¡­


    God damn you Fury!


    Pierce''s eyes glinted with a hidden intensity. "We have the means to achieve this. We believe in a unified world, guided by strength and order. Your technological advancements and resources could play a crucial role in this vision. We want you to join us, to help shape the future."


    Justin leaned back, considering his words carefully, "When you say we, let''s be plainspoken here¡­ One moment." Before he could go too far, he used his implant to scan the room through his glasses, finding two cameras and one microphone active.


    Tricky bastard, he cursed internally.


    The worth of a recording of Justin Hammer speaking about HYDRA was practically priceless. And he''d almost just stepped right into it. "I''m a man who values my privacy, Alexander." He said coldly.


    He would not allow the man to step over him, HYDRA head or not, Director of SHIELD or not. He was Justin fucking Hammer, and these people came to him, not the other way around.


    Not anymore.


    Pierce smiled, bringing out his phone, an H-phone Justin idly noted, that will come in useful soon¡­ He pressed a few buttons, and Justin performed another scan after he put the phone away in his pocket again, the equipment disabled now to his senses.


    Still, he''d remember to be careful, if anyone had devices he couldn''t find, it would be these people. He waved over Domino, who had been guarding him from the door, outside of earshot.


    She sauntered over, eyes sharp, as Justin had her sit on the arm of his chair, giving Pierce a challenging look. Her powers weren''t all that well known, but Pierce knew enough, enough to believe her presence so close would give Justin luck.


    Her being called over being a warning of sorts. Don''t push too far.


    "Let''s just say I know of what you speak, in general. Why would I want to join in on such a thing?" He asked, eyes cold and assessing.


    Pierce already knew he knew about HYDRA, so they''d be able to speak just fine on it without mentioning it directly.


    Pierce continued smiling, although it didn''t reach his eyes, nodding his head slowly as he considered the proximity of Domino. "Why else? Power, the ability to shape the world." He said charmingly, "Justin, you know as well as I this world needs protection, who better than us?" He said, insistently, leaning forward.


    Justin leaned back, considering his words carefully. "Power, protection, shaping the world¡­ That''s quite a proposition, Alexander." He murmured, switching back to a more genial tone, "But I have to ask, what makes you think I''m interested in joining such a thing?"


    Especially as I''m already doing it on my own¡­


    Pierce smiled, a predator sensing a potential ally. "You and I both know the power of control, Justin. With¡­ Us, you''d have a hand in shaping the world''s destiny, ensuring that chaos and unpredictability are stamped out worldwide."


    For a moment, Justin appeared to mull it over, his expression thoughtful. Then he leaned forward, a shrewd smile playing on his lips as he understood the position Pierce was in. The reason for his sudden open invitation.


    With Fury in the wind, HYDRA''s reveal was only a matter of time. Even if he didn''t know for sure yet, he would find out now that he had nothing else to focus on. Pierce had to take over, manage SHIELD, facing threats from everywhere. A SHIELD who was suddenly facing rebellion while the world nipped at it from the outside for their many failures recently.


    He looked like he had a strong position, but his insistent pushing right now, his attempt to snare Justin, it was the act of someone in a weak position, not one of strength.


    He needed Justin. And that realization alone, gave him all the power he needed in this discussion.


    "Alexander, I appreciate the offer, truly." He said calmly, Pierce''s face turning stony the second he realized what Justin was saying. "But I believe our paths are better aligned as distant allies rather than direct partners. My focus is on the economy, on innovation and growth in the private sector. That could be very useful to you, correct? But not if I was¡­ Entrenched in organizational politics."


    "I admit to some disappointment, Justin." Pierce said slowly, "But I am relieved you still wish to cooperate with our vision." The affable smile was back again, as he met Justin''s gaze.


    Justin smiled, and it was all teeth, "I believe in order, nothing says we can''t work together in the future. I have a different focus right now however. You handle the political sphere, the shadowy side of governance. Together, we can support each other''s efforts without entangling ourselves too deeply."


    Pierce''s new smile faded slightly, replaced by a look of contemplation. "A pragmatic approach, I suppose." He muttered, seemingly accepting, but not altogether pleased with the outcome.


    Justin nodded. "Exactly. Cooperation without entanglement. I''ll continue to advance technology and the economy, which will, in turn, benefit your goals. And you ensure that the political landscape remains conducive to our mutual interests."


    HYDRA would have to go, for obvious reasons, but Pierce would be a useful pawn as long as he thought Justin was an ally.


    Pierce studied him for a long moment before nodding slowly. "Very well, Justin. We''ll see how this plays out. Just remember, in this new world, we all need strong allies, anyone can be brought low if they''re not careful¡­"


    Fury is better at veiled threats than you, Pierce, he thought with a scoff, patting Domino''s knee, meeting Pierce''s gaze unflinchingly.


    "Allies then." Pierce said slowly, looking pleased despite everything.


    It wasn''t a full win for him, but Justin could imagine he was thinking it wasn''t far off. The further Justin cooperated, the easier it would be to tie him in. He no doubt saw Justin''s greed and lust for power and thought it made him controllable.


    Not realizing those two attributes was what made Justin unstoppable.


    "As allies¡­ I suppose I should alert you to a little¡­ Snag in our little alliance." Justin said with an imperious smirk.


    Pierce sat still, his face could have been carved out of marble suddenly, "Oh?" He said dangerously.


    "Yes, I''ve already solved the situation so nothing to worry about Alexander. But I thought it important to our new alliance, to let you know I currently hold the Winter Soldier."


    Justin admired Pierce''s self control, the man didn''t even flinch, no reaction at all, his eyes simply meeting Justin''s with intensity, "That''s¡­ Interesting." He said simply, fishing for information.


    Another sign to Justin that he''d clocked the situation correctly, Pierce wasn''t in a position to go after him, or he''d have reacted much differently to that piece of news. "Not to worry, he''s healed from all that nasty mind blending, and I''ve convinced him to let bygones be bygones, that HYDRA was wiped out when he was captured, and the few, few, remaining members now work for, or with me."


    "How thoughtful of you." Pierce said slowly, holding back any reaction masterfully.


    "He''s mine now, and I''ll use him well, and it will benefit the both of us still in the end won''t it? Just make sure your¡­ Friends, know to keep things nice and easy, and we''ll all profit from this in the end. Power and control, right?" Justin drawled, bowing his head slightly to Pierce, nothing but an empty gesture, but it got the other man to sit straighter anyway.


    "Of course, we''ll all stay friendly, and work for the same goals, for the world and our own benefits." He murmured, eyes piercing, but he relaxed slightly, no longer seemingly on the edge of making a dangerous decision.


    Dangerous for him, because Justin trusted Domino over whatever Pierce had hidden in the two secret walls his glasses had picked up on.


    Justin stood, extending his hand once more. "Of course, Alexander. To mutual success."


    They shook hands, a tentative understanding forged, or so Pierce believed at least. Each of them had their own vision for the future. As Justin left the Triskelion, he couldn''t help but feel a surge of satisfaction. He had successfully navigated the treacherous waters of HYDRA''s recruitment, securing his position and influence without compromising his own goals.


    Fury was still an absolute asshole, but he''d weakened Pierce''s position at the absolute best time for Justin.


    He''d expected to walk out with several bribes sent HYDRAs way to make things work. Instead he walked out with what was basically a promise of sending thoughts and prayers.


    They''d have to be dealt with.


    But for now.


    It all worked for him.


    The world could use a little bit more control.


    <hr>


    The next day, New York, Blacksite


    In the sterile, high-tech laboratory in the basement of the same building Bucky Barnes had been held, Justin laid ensconced in the regeneration cradle. The cradle, above its usual purposes, was able to perfectly monitor and keep track of every aspect of the human body, its numerous displays flickering with data readouts and vital signs. Above him, sophisticated machinery hummed softly, more scanning technology available to the scientists attending him.


    The fact he was naked in the cradle mattered not one whit to Maya Hansen, but Helen Cho was continuously distracted in her work. He wasn''t sure why he needed to be naked actually...


    Both women wore their lab coats and looked focused, their eyes occasionally meeting in silent communication as they prepared for the procedure. Only Helen''s brief straying eyes took away from the view of professionals at work.


    "Are you ready, sir?" Dr. Hansen asked, her voice calm and professional, though her eyes betrayed a hint of excitement.


    Anytime they advanced Extremis in any way she was the same. It was her baby through and through, even if she''d needed a lot of assistance to get it to this point.


    At least with this done, he could have her and Cho could focus on the X-gene Extremis so they could hopefully unmindfuck Eileen.


    They were going through way too many worthless Metahumans in trial and error right now.


    Justin, his face a mask of determination, nodded, concentrating on what was happening. "Let''s do this."


    Dr. Hansen stepped forward, holding a syringe filled with a glowing blue serum - the super soldier serum, designed to enhance human capabilities to their absolute peak. She inserted the needle into Justin''s arm with practiced precision, injecting the serum slowly. Due to him already having Extremis, the serum had already been adjusted to interact with and bond with the Extremis already in his system.


    As the serum entered his bloodstream, Justin immediately felt a surge of intense heat radiating from the injection site, spreading rapidly through his veins. His heart began to race, pounding in his chest with a force that seemed almost supernatural. Every muscle in his body tightened, as if charged with electricity, and a wave of nausea washed over him. It was like the biggest rush in his life, while also intensely uncomfortable.


    "Vitals spiking," Dr. Cho said, her voice clipped as she monitored the data, a hint of worry in her voice even with everything moving forward as expected. "Heart rate is elevated, but within expected parameters."


    Cho completely missed the irritated glance from Hansen for her doubting the process even for a second. Justin noticed, because he was suddenly hypersensitive to everything around him.


    Until he wasn''t.


    Justin''s vision blurred, the edges of the world around him growing fuzzy. The heat intensified, reaching a point where it felt like his very blood was on fire. He clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white as he fought to remain conscious. Sweat poured from his forehead, drenching his hair and stinging his eyes.


    The pain was intense, Justin straining his jaw, gritting his teeth together so hard the noise was audible, all to prevent a scream from erupting. He was better than that!


    "It''s working," Dr. Hansen murmured, her eyes fixed on the readouts. "The serum is bonding with his cellular structure."


    Suddenly, the pain peaked, a crescendo of agony that threatened to consume him. Justin let out a guttural cry through clenched teeth, his body arching against the restraints. He could feel his muscles expanding, flexing, strengthening, as if his very flesh was being remade from the inside out. His bones ached with a deep, throbbing pain as they grew denser and stronger.


    "Hang in there, Justin," Cho urged, her hand resting lightly on his shoulder in a rare moment of comfort. "You''re almost through it." She added, almost sounding tearful.


    As quickly as it had come, the pain began to ebb, replaced by a profound sense of power. Justin felt a surge of energy unlike anything he had ever experienced. His vision cleared, becoming sharper and more focused. Every sound, every movement in the room seemed heightened, his senses more acute than ever before.


    It was like living your entire life in black and white, and suddenly everything was colored. It was amazing.


    "Vitals are stabilizing," Dr. Hansen announced, with a note of accomplishment in her voice. "The transformation is complete."


    Justin lay still for a moment, catching his breath. Then, with a newfound strength, he sat up, the restraints falling away, breaking off his body. He looked down at his hands, marveling at the strength he felt, the way his skin seemed to glow with vitality.


    "How do you feel?" Cho asked, her eyes searching his face, worry flickering in her eyes.


    Justin flexed his fingers, feeling the immense power coursing through his body. He stood, every movement fluid and effortless, a triumphant smile spreading across his face. "I feel... Incredible."


    Dr. Hansen nodded, a satisfied smile of her own. "Welcome to the next level, sir." She said, pride radiating off her.


    "Yelena, get in there." Justin ordered, gesturing to the cradle, only to blink in bemusement at finding her already naked, standing at the ready.


    Only¡­


    "Did you¡­" He trailed off, not even going to ask, he had more important things to do. Although that is one habit he wouldn''t mind catching on - it was very good for his ego.


    Yelena pouted at him dropping the issue before it could be spoken out loud, but easily climbed into the cradle, eager to become even more dangerous.


    They''d specifically postponed the Red Room attack until the end of the month due to the possibility this would be available. Yelena having more power behind her could only be a boon once she infiltrated the Red Room to release her sisters.


    With the calculating way Cho was watching the small stylized trimmed J Yelena showed off proudly - he had a feeling at least one person would follow the trend.


    I do love seeing my name on things¡­ He thought, trying to hide how much he liked it.


    Yelena was smug enough as it was.


    There was only one thing to say once Yelena exited the cradle, a super soldier in truth, now.


    "Spar?" He asked, ready to test his limits.


    The look he got back was predatory, "Spar!" She confirmed, eagerly moving forward towards the exit.


    "Yelena?"


    "Yes, sir?"


    "Maybe get dressed before you leave the lab¡­"


    <hr>


    New York, July 25th, Hammer industries temporary offices,


    Justin was seated behind his mahogany desk, his posture relaxed, as Hope sat across from him. She wore a casual yet stylish outfit - dark jeans and a fitted blouse - that highlighted her athletic build. She lounged in one of the plush chairs opposite Justin, holding a glass of wine in one hand.


    The two of them had spent little over an hour just catching up and enjoying each other''s company, but alas, business awaited, as it always did.


    "It''s nice to be able to relax, I don''t see much of that lately," Hope breathed out, propping her feet up on the edge of his desk, a playful smile on her face.


    Justin rarely saw her this carefree, it was nice, hence why he for once hadn''t rushed into business.


    "What''s mine is yours, darling," Justin replied, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he noted her relaxed demeanor. "I see you''re making yourself at home." He quipped lightly.


    "Just testing your hospitality," she quipped back, flashing another playful smile. "How have you been? I noticed your new company in San Francisco, even ordered dinner through it once, genius idea really."


    He knew. Although he didn''t have the power of an AI behind him yet, certain phones and accounts were flagged in his system. Hope was one of those, so he''d immediately known when she''d placed an order from an Italian restaurant a few blocks away from her neighborhood.


    He also now kept track on Peter Parker and Gwen Stacy amongst others. In those two''s case, it was to ensure they didn''t dig to deep into Dr, Connors.


    He might have to dangle an internship over Gwen''s head, distract her. That girl was comic book level of stubborn. From his tracking, it was apparent she was using her father''s police connections to look into things.


    Thankfully that would avail her nothing.


    Unfortunately it seemed Pierce wasn''t actually an idiot, he had what looked like an H-phone, but Justin couldn''t find it at all in his system.


    Oh well, once he had his AI¡­


    "Busy as ever, and thank you, I think it was a pretty clever business idea," Justin said with smug smile. "But enough about me¡­" It was time to dig into business. "How''s the idea of becoming a superhero going over? Any last minute regrets?"


    Hope leaned back, crossing her arms. "It''s been... Interesting to think about. Still getting used to the whole idea of being a ''public figure'' thing. It''s a lot of pressure."


    There was a very big difference between being a somewhat well known business woman and scientist - to being a superhero.


    "You''ll handle it well, like you handle all your business" Justin said, his tone sincere. "And you''ll look good doing it." He added, flashing her a quick charming smile.


    "Flattery will get you everywhere," She replied with a smirk, before it grew into a more honest smile, "But thanks. It means a lot."


    Justin chuckled easily. "Just stating the facts, Hope." He said warmly, before sighing, business waited for no man after all, "Anyway, let''s talk business shall we? How many days a month can I count on you for the space program? And how many for the hero team?" He asked, knowing she was busy, not to his level, but still a woman with her days full.


    It''s why they guarded this little meetings so fiercely. Their time to just be, chatting together, enjoying time with an equal without any complications.


    Hope raised an eyebrow, pretending to ponder. "Hmm, let me think. I was thinking ten days a month for the space program. It''s a fascinating project, and I want to dive in deep. As for the hero team, maybe five days a month. Balancing both roles is going to be tricky, but I''m up for the challenge."


    It''s more than Justin had expected. Honestly half the month, a full fifty percent of her time spent on their shared endeavors, it was more than he could have asked. He was honestly surprised, but pleased.


    He wondered how Hank Pym would take the news, and if Darren Cross had anything to do with Hope wanting to spend half the month as far away from her day job as possible. Either way, he was thankful.


    Justin nodded at her appreciatively. "That sounds perfect. We can make that work. Your expertise is invaluable to both ventures." He winked at her, as he laid on some more flattery.


    "Flattery and charm, again." She noted with a laugh. "But I appreciate it. I''m excited to see where this partnership takes us." She said, eyes softening.


    Justin leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with a little bit of mischief. "You know, Hope, having you on board is like having a secret weapon. Or maybe a not-so-secret one, considering your public profile." He teased, part just having fun, part wanting to ensure she''s aware how important she is to him. For this work. For the work.


    Hope laughed, a light, melodic sound. "Just don''t expect me to do all the heavy lifting. You''ve got to pull your weight too." She teased him back, looking at him fondly.


    "I think I can manage that," Justin replied with a suave grin. "But seriously, Hope, having you on board is a game-changer. With your skills and intellect, we''re bound to make significant strides."


    "Flattery and charm, again," she teased, her eyes twinkling. "You''re really laying it on thick today."


    Justin shrugged, leaning back in his chair. "What can I say? I know a good thing when I see it." He fired back.


    Hope rolled her eyes playfully. "Alright, alright. Enough with the sweet talk. Let''s get down to the nitty-gritty. How are we going to divide my time between the space program and the hero team?"


    Justin nodded, the playful banter giving way to a more serious tone. "Ten days a month for the space program would probably work best if it''s consecutive, five for the hero team whenever you''re needed, or become available. We''ll make sure to schedule around any major missions or events. Flexibility is key, I don''t want to get in the way of your dedication to your own company."


    As far as he was concerned it was hers. Not Hanks. Because she was actually doing something with it.


    "Sounds good to me," Hope agreed. "But don''t think for a second that I won''t call you out if you try to overwork me buster."


    Justin chuckled. "Wouldn''t dream of it. You have my word."


    He''d decided not to push the super soldier serum mix on Hope yet. Her situation with her father was still delicate, and he didn''t want to be the one to push her over the edge.


    Not to mention the risk of Hank Pym cutting off the pipeline of particles he so desperately wanted for his space program.


    Hope smiled, taking a small sip of win, tilting her head slightly to the side, in the direction of the entrance to the room, "Is there a reason your personal assistant won''t stop glaring at me?"


    Justin eyed Yelena, who immediately averted her eyes, only for her head to slide back, a glare aimed at Hope''s position. "She''s¡­ Very loyal." He said weakly.


    Dammit Yelena¡­


    Hope raised an amused eyebrow. "Justin, you are a manwhore." She sighed, shaking her head. Immediately cottoning on to the issue.


    If she hadn''t already the last time these two had interacted.


    Justin made an affronted noise, "I am not!" He defended himself against Hope''s wild accusation.


    "So you haven''t slept with her?" Hope asked, laughter in her eyes.


    "... That''s completely different."


    "~Slut!" She sing-songed.


    "How much wine did you have?"


    <hr>


    New York, Madison Square Garden, 30th of July.


    In a private room backstage at Madison Square Garden, the atmosphere was thick with anticipation. The room was tastefully decorated, exuding a sense of understated luxury. A large white table dominated the space, surrounded by plush leather chairs. At one end of the table sat President Ellis, growing into his presidency it seemed to Justin - as he held a stern demeanor and commanding presence, dressed in a sharp suit. Across from him, Justin sat with his usual air of confidence, radiating smugness about the evening''s upcoming reveal.


    President Ellis leaned forward, his expression serious. "I have to ask. Is he really ready for this? Are they all? We''re talking about placing a lot of trust and responsibility on his and their shoulders." He clenched a fist, his expression tight, "If this turns into a catastrophe, if they fail at their task, it could sink my administration."


    Justin smiled reassuringly. "Mr. President, I can assure you, he is not only ready, but he''s almost eager to take on this mantle - to regain some of what was lost and rekindle a legacy. He''s been through rigorous training and psychological evaluations. He''s in top physical and mental condition." Justin leaned back in his leather chair, tenting his hands, "As for the rest of the team, you can count on me if nothing else, Mr. President, I will ensure they do as they should, I also do not want to lose face if this team causes a disaster."


    Normally he didn''t bother showing Ellis much respect, but he''d come through lately, assisting him more than Justin had planned when he''d supported the man''s candidacy. And he was visibly growing into his role. So Justin could show him his due, if nothing else to keep Ellis happy and performing for him.


    If he treated him too much like a trained monkey, he might start flinging shit¡­


    The President nodded, but his concern was still evident. "This isn''t just about physical readiness, Justin. The world is watching. This move will have significant geopolitical implications. We need to be sure." He stressed.


    Russia and China both would likely throw massive hissy fits. They''d already grumbled at the small showing his team had done at the Suez canal, even though it had benefited them all massively.


    There wasn''t even a question about if those two nations would wage a PR campaign against them and send saboteurs - it was only a question of how much and how many.


    Justin leaned in, his voice sly and persuasive. "He represents a bridge between the past and the future. He''s a living testament to our history and a symbol of our ongoing strength. His return and subsequent take over of the Captain America legacy will send a powerful message to our allies and adversaries alike. It shows that we are resilient, that we honor our heroes, and that we''re always ready to step up."


    President Ellis considered this, his fingers tapping lightly on the table, finding his reasoning good enough by all metrics, as he switched the subject, "Speaking of allies, NATO is onboard, as is Scandinavia and Mexico, I haven''t bothered approaching anyone else yet. But your team can act insofar those countries allow it - with oversight from NATO."


    Justin''s expression brightened, confident in his response. "That is plenty, if a disaster happens somewhere else and my team is denied, that''s fine by me - it will show people that their governments are trash - unless they allow Hammer industries to help." Just another lever for his soft power.


    While nominally under the US government and NATO, everyone with any lick of sense or power would know it was Justin who held the reins. So they''d come to him to negotiate things.


    A few riots quietly encouraged after some earthquake or tsunami has devastated a country refusing his help, and the problem would solve itself. Either the government would bow to pressure and let his team in giving him more power there, his team able to back up his companies. Or they''ll push so hard the public throws a revolution, leading to the same result eventually.


    Either way, he won. To think a ''hero'' team could be used to push his agenda so easily? He''d only wanted to make the Avengers a second rate team, but he found so many benefits on the way¡­


    "How about what I requested, the EU?" Justin switched tracks, curious if Ellis had delivered. He was already seeing more traction for his companies, but that could simply be because of his deal with the Prime minister of Britain - the British taking in all he had on offer and forcing the EU to choose between following or trying to punish the British.


    A move likely to push them straight out of the EU, and the Europeans knew it.


    He had them between a rock and a hard place already, and then he sicked Ellis on them.


    The President gave a small, knowing smile. "I had to pull a few levers to make sure they saw things our way. Some diplomatic pressure, a few strategic promises. In the end, they folded on my demands."


    More like my demands, but oh how useful you''ve become, Ellis¡­


    Justin''s eyes gleamed with satisfaction at the news. "That''s excellent news, Mr. President. Making it harder across the globe for rivals with no sense to try and copy my products could only benefit us both, your 8 years are practically guaranteed." He smirked, a smug look on his face as he slyly added, "Perhaps enough support to even change things so you could run a third time, hmm?"


    He didn''t own enough politicians to push through that too easily yet, but give him time, and he would.


    The President stood, extending his hand to Justin. "Here''s to a new chapter."


    Justin shook his hand firmly. "To a new chapter, Mr. President. Let''s make history tonight."


    With a final nod, President Ellis exited the room, leaving Justin to finalize his preparations. As he adjusted his tie and glanced at his reflection, he couldn''t help but feel a surge of pride. Tonight would mark the beginning of a new era, one where he and his vision would stand at the forefront of change.


    No matter what Fury tried to pull with the Avengers, no matter what HYDRA tried, no matter what the Mandarin plotted hiding in Asia.


    This was his Era now.


    <hr>


    New York, Madison Square Garden, 30 minutes later,


    For weeks the media had drummed up interest, an event shared between Hammer Industries and the US government, a festive event covered in secrecy, one that would be attended by the President himself.


    Tickets had sold out in minutes. With the last six months of innovation and media around Hammer industries, Justin Hammer was gold right now, and if he called, the public answered.


    Some minor protests were held outside the arena, the people screaming and frothing at the mouth about mutants, or losing their careers, blaming everything on Hammer industries.


    But they were in a clear minority, the stadium filled to the brim with people waving H-phones in the air.


    The lights in Madison Square Garden suddenly dimmed, and the crowd hushed in anticipation as the event was about to begin. A dramatic drumroll echoed through the arena as a spotlight focused on the stage, where a sleek podium stood adorned with the Hammer Industries logo. The massive screens flanking the stage displayed the company''s insignia, shimmering in a futuristic blue.


    Justin strode onto the stage, exuding confidence and charisma. His impeccably tailored suit gleamed under the lights, and he paused for a moment, soaking in the applause before raising his hands to quiet the crowd, something that still took over five minutes as the frantic crowd raved at him.


    These people all knew people, had loved ones, neighbors, co-workers, who only lived because of him, because of Panacea. To these people he was the ultimate rockstar.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for joining us on this monumental evening," He began, his voice resonating with excitement. "Tonight, I am thrilled to introduce you to the future of world protection. People capable of fighting even natural disasters, doing search and rescue that regular services can not take on, taking on tyranny and evil wherever it may hide." He paused dramatically, letting the roar of the crowd resonate, "A real life superhero team - I give you, the H.A.M.M.E.R team." He shouted, spreading his arms out grandly.


    The screens behind him lit up with the word H.A.M.M.E.R, each letter standing for Homeland Armored Maximum Mobilization and Emergency Response team. The audience buzzed with anticipation.


    "Our world is changing, and with it, the threats we face," Justin continued, making sweeping arm gestures as the screen showed some of Wakanda''s atrocities, "We need heroes who are not only powerful but also equipped with the best technology that Hammer Industries can provide. And tonight, I am proud to present to you the elite members of our new superhero team, backed by the Government of the United States of America, and our allies in NATO."


    With a dramatic gesture, he pointed to the stage as the first hero appeared. "First, we have the Scorpion, a suit engineered for unparalleled agility and strength, piloted by a veteran marine and a hero in his own right. Please welcome, Frank Castle!"


    A figure in bulky, dark green armor with a long, mechanical tail stepped forward, the Scorpion Armor glinting menacingly under the lights. The crowd cheered as Frank waved, the tail swaying with a life of its own.


    Behind him the screen played action footage of his fight in Wakanda, the Scorpion moving as mobile artillery, taking down Wakandan air ships.


    "Next, the skies will never be the same with our heroic Vulture watching it - a suit of armor engineered for agility and pure fire power. Please welcome, Brock Rumlow!"


    The Vulture came in for a landing, its massive, metallic wings emerging, gleaming in the light, Brock taking a short flight over the stage before landing gracefully. The audience gasped at the display of aerial prowess, flashes of cameras going off everywhere as phones immortalized every moment.


    Action footage of the fight in Wakanda played, coupled with footage of the Vulture simply taking to the sky, performing aerial maneuvers in death defying stunts.


    The sound of the crowd was practically deafening at this point, Justin felt right in his element as he grinned wildly on stage, swept away in the emotions of the crowd, grandly throwing his arms up, practically shouting into the microphone.


    "Every team needs a spark, and we have it in our very own Electro! No villain is safe with Electro safeguarding us all! Ladies and gentlemen, Max Dillon!"


    Max stepped forward from behind the stage, electricity crackling around his hands and his eyes glowing with a blue hue. His confident grin matched the energy pulsating around him, eliciting a roar of approval from the crowd. His uniform was sleek and skin tight, a mix of dark blue and black.


    The screens behind them lit up with action shots of Electro using his powers in power testing, drawing amazed gasps and shouts out of the crowd, Max grinning and raising his arms as he came to stand by the others.


    "And now, someone who should need no introduction, a symbol of strength and innovation - a good friend of mine, and the beating heart of the team! The Wasp, Hope Van Dyne!"


    Hope, in her sleek, black and yellow suit, buzzed onto the stage, jumping off Justin''s shoulder where she''d been sitting, the camera showing her position, following her as she flew off him, returning to normal size in a superhero landing, her wings creating a hum that resonated through the arena. She flew over to land gracefully next to the other heroes, waving at the cheering crowd.


    Justin hoped Hank choked to death on something watching this. The screen displayed Hope shrinking in and out as she tackled a whole complement of soldiers, taking them down with ease, before flying inside a tank, appearing seconds later as it detonated.


    "For sheer power and precision in a suit that''s a testament to the genius behind the Arc reactor, we have Whiplash! Give it up for Ivan Vanko!" Justin shouted, knowing Vanko had been looking forward to this all month.


    A figure in a gleaming suit, filled with arc reactors, stepped forward with electrified whips loosely held down his arms, suddenly cracking them with explosive force, creating a spectacle of light and sound. The audience erupted into applause, impressed by the display of raw power.


    The screens showed both Vanko''s impressive showing at the Suez Canal, as well as shots of him working in a lab, the suits flashing by. Justin''s way of appeasing Ivan, letting his genius go on show for everyone.


    Justin paused, letting the anticipation build before delivering the evening''s biggest reveal.


    "And now, for the final member of our team. Someone that our country¡­ No¡­ The world has been crying out for." Justin said solemnly, the screens behind him showing nothing but the American flag waving.


    "Captain America was the biggest hero the world had ever seen, but he wasn''t the only one, he was followed by the Howling Commandos, and his best friend and a true hero, Bucky Barnes." The screen played footage from the war, the solemn atmosphere affecting the crowd, even as there was a lot of confusion. "Steve Rogers left a legacy, one too heavy to pick up by just anyone¡­" Justin said quietly, yet the microphone let everyone hear it.


    The screen began flickering, showing quick images of Bucky Barnes, music beginning to pick up in a crescendo, "Yet, history told us Bucky Barnes made the ultimate sacrifice as a soldier, but he survived, a super soldier in his own right, kept as a POW for all this time!" Justin roared, to a shocked crowd and nation.


    He gestured with one arm, the screen showing Bucky Barnes in simple fatigues, working out, testing his strength, fighting and training with the other members of the team. "He survived, Steve Rogers legacy is still alive! He is the epitome of the ideal of never give up, never surrender, always willing to fight for what is right and these United States of America - through thick and thin!"


    The screen suddenly displayed nothing but Captain America''s shield. Justin gestured explosively, and from beneath the stage, a lift moved up. It was shaped like the shield, on it stood Bucky Barnes, motionless, a perfect copy of the Captain America shield crafted for him out of Vibranium on his arm, a only slightly changed Captain America uniform adorning him. His expression was stoic but determined, the rest of the team coming to stand around him.


    The crowd lost their minds, no one would leave Madison Square Garden with a fully functioning voice after this. All over America and the world, the reaction was explosive and filled with euphoria.


    Captain America was that big of a deal.


    Justin gestured towards Bucky Barnes, bowing his head slightly, "I give you all¡­ For the world, for America, for Truth and Justice!"


    "I GIVE YOU YOUR CAPTAIN AMERICA!"


    <hr>

 All is Fair in Love and War.

    <hr>


    Mexico, August 1st, 2008.


    The two men moved silently but not hurriedly towards the dilapidated warehouse.


    Nick Fury, despite his usually intimidating presence, was nearly unrecognizable in his incognito attire. He wore a well-worn, dark gray hoodie pulled up over his head, casting shadows over his distinctive eyepatch and facial features. The hoodie''s fabric was thick and slightly faded, well used.


    His jeans were dark and functional, designed for ease of movement and with quality materials, while looking like they''d been picked up at a thrift store. They were slightly baggy, with numerous pockets perfect for concealing tools or small weapons. Fury''s sturdy, black boots were scuffed and practical, purely decorative duct tape in place to give the appearance of low quality and cheap repairs.


    To complete his disguise, Fury wore a plain baseball cap, its brim low over his face to obscure some of his recognizable features. The cap was a dull, nondescript color, blending seamlessly with the rest of his attire. His hands, rough and scarred from years of fieldwork, were covered with fingerless gloves.


    Despite the simplicity of his clothes, Fury''s posture and the way he carried himself betrayed his true identity if anyone was watching at this moment. His movements were deliberate and controlled, his eye constantly scanning the surroundings with a sharp, almost predatory alertness. Even in disguise, Nick Fury was a man who could command respect and exuded authority, ready for whatever danger might come his way.


    Only the fact they were fairly sure they were alone right now, had made him drop the act his clothes represented, his normal fierce glare present as he looked around.


    Phil Coulson on the other hand, dressed remarkably similar, and with fake facial hair making him look a lot scruffier - did better in appearing as a low life/vagrant kind of man. Even as he as well was at full alert. Even as Fury stopped pretending, Coulson kept most of his act up.


    They slowly entered the abandoned warehouse on the outskirts of town, Fury and Coulson both moving silently, their footsteps barely audible on the dusty concrete floor. They had left behind all electronic devices, ensuring they couldn''t be tracked or overheard.


    Fury, with his signature eyepatch partially obscured by his cap, scanned the area one last time before nodding to Coulson. "This is the place."


    Coulson, ever vigilant, kept his hand near his concealed weapon, his eyes darting around the dimly lit room. "It seems like we''re clear." He said conversationally, his guard never lowering.


    Fury led the way to a small corner of the warehouse where a makeshift table had been set up, illuminated by a single, flickering bulb. They settled in, the atmosphere tense but focused.


    They''d been on a hair trigger since escaping the STRIKE team that should have been on their side. SHIELD taking a very troubling stance on its former employees. Which neatly had given them a following of agents as more and more of them realized something was rotten in the state of Denmark.


    "Phil, we''re in deep trouble with this whole circus," Fury began tiredly, his voice low and gravelly. "SHIELD has been compromised. By who, I don''t know yet. But it''s bad. Real bad." They hadn''t had much chance to discuss things yet, Fury setting up this meeting to begin fighting back.


    He had many plans, some who had been in the work for years, that he''d never pulled the trigger on, but now, it would be needed.


    Coulson leaned forward, his brow furrowing. He could hardly argue the point, he''d almost been killed by their own teams after all as well, "How do you not know who?" He asked, sounding curious as he gestured to their surroundings, "Not that many people could infiltrate SHIELD and accomplish this much, don''t you have any leads?"


    Honestly, the list of agencies or people who could pull this off were low, Phil already had several suspects he was ruminating on, but they were in fact the only suspects.


    "I''ve been picking up bits and pieces," Fury said, lips curling in anger. "People I trusted turning up dead or disappearing. Information leaks that shouldn''t be possible. And the way things are moving inside SHIELD - it''s like someone else is pulling the strings. Someone with a lot of power." He rubbed his face wearily, "This whole Wakanda cockup stirred the rats nest enough that I could draw some conclusions, but nothing too concrete yet."


    Coulson nodded, absorbing the gravity of the situation and accepting Fury at his word. "Alright. What''s our next move?" He asked, not for one second believing there wasn''t a plan in place.


    He knew Fury.


    Fury glanced around like he was looking for something, frowning when he couldn''t find it, then motioned for Coulson to bear with him, as he began talking again, "Before we get into that, there''s one possibility I didn''t want to believe, but I''m wondering about at the moment. Justin Hammer. He''s got resources, technology, and now, a damn superhero team starring the goddamn Winter Soldier. He''s positioning himself as a major player outside business matters, and he''s dangerous - I thought I had a handle on him as a councilor, but perhaps he pulled the wool over my eye."


    The idea galled him, but he couldn''t discount it.


    They had almost no information on the elusive Winter Soldier, but Fury was no fool. A super soldier in Bucky Barnes, who''s apparently been around since the 1940s as a ''Pow'' - then you take the Winter Soldier who''s been around for longer than any one normal man could last in their business¡­ What little description they''ve had of him matched, too. Bucky Barnes just happened to have a prosthetic arm, just like the Winter Soldier, to boot.


    The fact Hammer held that man''s leash, and had managed to convince the world he was a hero, cinched things for him. He''d thought he could steer Hammer towards world protection by getting him included, but it now seemed like the man had far darker secrets than Fury had ever thought.


    Coulson frowned. "Hammer''s always been ambitious, but why now? Why the sudden push?"


    Neither Coulson nor his team liked Hammer, but it seemed a stretch for Coulson to believe he''d make a play for SHIELD.


    "He wants more power, so he created a power vacuum," Fury replied tersely, tapping a knuckle on the table, his countenance grim, "With SHIELD compromised and with us on the run, Hammer has the opportunity to step in and take control. He''s been making moves, and if we don''t act fast, he''ll gain a foothold that could be disastrous."


    He still wasn''t fully sold on it being Hammer, because he never fully believed in anything. But while he poked around Pierce and his friends, it wouldn''t hurt to lay eyes on some of Hammer''s secrets as well.


    That still turned his stomach, the thought Pierce of all people might be involved.


    Coulson was silent for a moment after listening to Fury''s theory, before he reiterated, "So, what''s the plan?" A wry smile on his face, only to then immediately turn around, pulling a gun out and facing the darkness, from where quiet steps could be heard coming slowly their way.


    "It''s okay, Phil." Fury murmured lowly, standing up, a deep sigh rumbling loose, "He''s with me "


    Fury signaled into the darkness, and a figure emerged - a tall man with an entirely alien face and a confident stride, a playful smile on his lips. Coulson''s eyes widened in surprise.


    "Phil, meet Talos," Fury said. "He''s been helping me for a while now."


    Talos nodded, his expression serious. "Agent Coulson, it''s good to meet you." He smirked, gesturing to himself, "Properly I mean."


    Coulson nodded back, still processing the unexpected turn of events. "Skrulls? Didn''t see that coming." He said somewhat bemusedly. With his clearance and the mission he''d been involved in way back when - he knew about them, he hadn''t realized they were still on the planet, or that they were working for Fury though. "Sir, I realize that this may be presumptuous of me, but if you could bleed a little for me?" He asked, his gun still not lowered.


    Fury grunted in approval, quickly sliding a knife out of a hidden pocket and cutting himself, the blood welling up red.


    Coulson lowered his gun somewhat sheepishly, "Ah, good to know you''re you, sir, apologizes for the precaution."


    Fury smirked, "Coulson, if you hadn''t asked to check, I would have either thought you were a Skrull, on general grounds of incompetence -"


    "Hey now!" Talos broke in, Fury just talking over him as he continued, "Or that you recently received a traumatic brain injury."


    "Not needed, Nick, not needed." Talos said, as he walked closer, his features changed from alien, to that of a middle aged man with somewhat plain features.


    Fury sat back down, one hand on table, eyeing Coulson with pursed lips, "We''re going to use Talos and his people to infiltrate SHIELD and Justin Hammer''s operations." He explained, "They can take on any form, get into places we can''t. It''s our best shot at figuring out who''s behind all this and stopping them."


    Coulson frowned, "With all due respect, sir. Then why didn''t you use them before this?" He also eyed Talos with some skepticism, "Not to impugn their skills, but if Romanoff couldn''t do it, they won''t succeed either."


    Talos stepped forward, his voice steady. "We have the ability to blend in, in a far superior way to miss Romanoff, to gather intelligence, and strike when needed. We''ll find out what''s going on."


    Coulson looked between Fury and Talos, having a new understanding on what exactly was going on behind the scenes. "Barton and Romanoff?" He asked, immediately figuring it out.


    Fury smirked, "They''re on a different mission, Hill''s with them, she''s running the op."


    It did soothe his worries some, he hadn''t liked leaving them behind at all.


    "When do we start?" He asked, straightening his back.


    <hr>


    Cairo, Egypt, Hammer Compound.


    The orange portal swirled into being, and Justin stepped through, giving Kaecillius a thankful nod.


    The utility of this skill couldn''t be understated. Being able to go between New York and Cairo in seconds, without the hours stuck in a vulnerable private jet, saved him so much time - and limited risk factors.


    He''d made some good memories in that jet¡­ He''d at least keep it, for appearances sake - sometimes it would be necessary to fly to not have people wonder how exactly he appeared across the world.


    "Yelena, with me, Kaecillius you have the day free for your studies, keep your communicator on in case we need you." He ordered swiftly, sweeping out of the room assigned as the portal room.


    He didn''t need to give Domino any orders, she''d obviously follow him no matter what.


    They made their way towards the sub basement, Justin querying Yelena, "Any issues with the plan?"


    Yelena shook her head, her ponytail swishing back and forth, her expression almost pouting, but not quite. "The Winter Soldier found several ways to improve upon it, we''re ready." She acknowledged.


    He chuckled, "Captain America now, there''s no Winter Soldier anymore." He said somewhat chasteningly. It''s all good here, but I don''t want it to spread around everywhere this soon.


    HYDRA would keep their mouths shut, for now.


    Obviously Pierce and the others would try something eventually, he held no doubts about that. But for now, they were placated, and had other concerns - like whatever Fury was going to do.


    Yelena shook her head again, "I still can''t believe you made the Winter Soldier into Captain America." She said, sounding amused. "He''s like the boogeyman."


    "Well, he''s never going to be the most photogenic Captain America," He acknowledged. For one, he didn''t smile enough, or at all¡­ "But he has the pedigree and weight of history behind him that will make people accept him - and that will be enough."


    "He''s like a big sad puppy." Domino interjected idly, twirling one of her guns around on a finger. If it were anyone but her, he''d say that was incredibly irresponsible. "Just looking at his sad puppy eyes and frown makes me want to pet him." She continued, a coy grin on her face.


    "....Please don''t treat Captain America like a dog in public¡­" Justin said wearily, as they entered the private elevator that would bring them down to the level holding Phantazia.


    Domino laughed, giving him a cheeky look, "Don''t worry, boss, any doggy style between me and the new Captain America will strictly be happening in private.''


    Yelena lit up, stepping closer to the mercenary turned bodyguard, "Ah, I see, you do have a type, Dom. Killmonger, and now Barnes¡­ The dark avenger type guy, yes?"


    Justin gave them both an admonishing look, "Girls, not really the time and place." He told them, mostly because he could only handle so much girl talk at a time, especially when it was about other men.


    They both settled, as the elevator doors opened, for all their joking around, their game faces immediately slid on now that they were on the last stretch.


    It only took them a few minutes to arrive at Phantazia''s cell. And unfortunately Dr. McCoy was already waiting for them.


    Justin hadn''t bothered informing him they were coming today, but he supposed the man had likely found a way to be alerted whenever Justin stepped into the compound.


    "Mister Hammer¡­ Back again so soon? I''m afraid there''s been no changes." He said politely.


    "We''re here to administer a solution." Justin replied clippedly, aware of the issues this might create, but unwilling to leave this threat ongoing - or leave Eileen under it for much longer.


    Dr. McCoy frowned, peering at them all with visible distaste, "My apologies, Mister Hammer, but we''re still months away, how exactly do you have something you think is capable of ameliorating this issue?" He questioned sharply.


    "It''s not a perfect solution, it only runs through the body for several minutes, regenerating it, then it dies out." Justin said, gesturing for Yelena to hand over the briefcase she''d been carrying, "You are right that we are months away from a working solution, but my team has worked hard on finding a temporary solution."


    And hopefully this excuse is believable enough Xavier won''t think I dipped back into Metahuman experimentation, he thought. Giving Dr. McCoy a severe look, "I couldn''t wait any longer to free my subordinate."


    "And how have you tested this solution?" Dr. McCoy stressed, accepting the briefcase, and opening it to see several vials of an orange liquid.


    Justin kept his face completely open, as he lied, "The simulations showed great progress, as did limited testing on volunteers."


    Dr. McCoy still seemed skeptical, but in the end he picked a vial up. "I won''t administer her something that has not been fully tested yet, let alone an incomplete formula." He said with finality, studying the vial, before sighing, "But this is your facility, your serum, and your subordinate, so I will not stop you either."


    Good, it would really be hard to explain to Xavier why his pet carpet spontaneously combusted. Justin thought, nodding at Yelena, who walked off to find a suitable trained stooge to administer the solution to Eileen.


    "Do you think it will work?" He asked the good doctor while they waited.


    He gave him a dry look, "You want my opinion on the solution you developed behind my back, despite this being the whole reason I''m here? The solution I haven''t studied at all, the one that''s temporary and has barely gone through trials?"


    "Don''t be facetious, you know well what I mean." Justin said sternly, "Do you believe temporarily regenerating her will fix whatever control issue has her in its grip?"


    Dr. McCoy sighed, as he stared through the observation window at the fully restrained and unconscious Phantazia. "It is possible, but I''m a scientist and not prone to making wild guesses, I believe when I finish the serum I''m working on, it will do so, but I can''t speak for this temporary strain."


    Justin nodded, eyes turning to the returning Yelena, and a man in a lab coat, following her nervously. "A possibility is worth the try." He said with finality, stepping away from the good doctor.


    The sterile white room where Phantazia was held was filled with the hum of machinery and the soft beeps of monitoring equipment. Eileen, laid on the prison cot, restrained and unconscious, her face pale and serene. The sight of her, so still and vulnerable, only fueled Justin''s determination to free her from this nightmare.


    She was his chief of security, hard ass and indomitable, she was not meant to be like this.


    Yelena handed the vial to the nervous lab technician, who glanced at Justin, then at Dr. McCoy, and finally back at Phantazia. With shaking hands, he prepared the syringe, drawing the orange liquid into it.


    "Be careful," Yelena instructed, her voice sharp. Her eyes promised murder if he made a mistake.


    Justin wasn''t sure how that was supposed to make the man less nervous. But he couldn''t help but add his own glare, because if he did mess this up¡­


    As Domino stepped up next to him, murmuring something low, her face utterly serious, he seemed to draw some strength.


    The technician nodded to himself, taking a deep breath before stepping forward. He injected the serum into Eileen''s arm, the orange liquid slowly disappearing into her bloodstream. Everyone in the room held their breath, watching intently for any signs of change.


    Justin''s gaze was fixed on Phantazia, his mind racing with a thousand thoughts. This had to work. He couldn''t afford to lose this valuable asset, especially not someone with her unique abilities. Not to mention what she''d be able to tell them about whoever was behind this.


    Minutes passed, feeling like hours. Then, a faint, almost imperceptible tremor ran through Eileen''s body. Her eyelids fluttered, and color began to return to her cheeks. The beeping of the monitoring equipment grew steadier, more rhythmic.


    Dr. McCoy leaned forward, his eyes narrowing as he observed the changes. "Her vitals are showing signs of the solution''s effects," He said, his tone a mix of surprise and cautious optimism.


    Justin allowed himself a small, satisfied smile. "Good. Now we wait and see if she regains control." This was all useless without it.


    Eileen''s eyes slowly opened, her gaze unfocused and distant. She blinked several times, as if trying to clear a fog from her mind. When her eyes finally settled on Justin, there was a flicker of recognition, and something else - gratitude.


    "Sir?" she whispered, her voice weak but clear. "You¡­ Fixed me? He''s out of my head?" She pleaded.


    Domino immediately was at her side, grasping her hand, looking more vulnerable than Justin had ever seen her as she let out a breath, resting her forehead on Eileen''s, "No more sleeping beauty act, hey? Just think of how much I''ve slacked off without you there to ride my ass."


    "Yes, Eileen, it''s me," Justin said after a moment, giving the two women a second, before stepping closer. "How do you feel?" And I will be asking who he is¡­.


    Eileen took a moment to gather her thoughts, then nodded slightly. "Better. The voice... It''s not there anymore, I''m not in the backseat of my own mind anymore." She sounded almost close to tears, the relief on her face obvious.


    Of course they would be testing her again, ensuring she''s truly free, but the fact she was able to talk about it at all was a good sign in his mind.


    Dr. McCoy moved to her side, checking her vitals and running a few basic cognitive tests. "It seems the serum has done what it advertised, at least medically. How long this will last, I can''t say."


    "That''s all we need for now," Justin replied clippedly. "We''ll keep a close eye on her and make sure she''s safe until we have a permanent solution."


    The testing would ensure she was her again, and within a few months they''d have the actual full serum working for Metahumans and her and Domino wouldn''t have to worry about it again.


    Yelena and Domino exchanged glances, their usual banter replaced by a shared sense of relief and accomplishment. The tension in the room began to ease as it became clear that the immediate crisis had been averted.


    Domino still held onto Eileen''s hand, sitting down next to her on the cot, Eileen squirming and blushing as the bodyguard doted on her.


    Dr. McCoy, still skeptical but less confrontational, nodded his approval. "This buys us some time to figure things out I suppose, but we must continue our work to find a lasting solution."


    Justin waved a hand dismissively, "It will get done still. All that matters now is that it may have worked, testing will give us a final answer." He turned to Yelena, "Set it up, Yelena, the sooner she''s cleared the better." He ordered.


    Eileen''s brows furrowed, as she looked at Yelena with suspicion, "Yelena, not Elena?" She asked.


    Yelena froze in place, before glancing at Justin with a pleading expression.


    Justin wasn''t going to bail her out of this one. She''d brought it onto herself.


    Domino had an absolute shit eating grin on her face as she leaned into Eileen, "Ah, yes, while you napped, we found out our sweet little Elena was actually the Black Widow Yelena."


    "Dom!" Yelena hissed in betrayal.


    "Sorry, ''Lena, every girl for herself." Domino said with a sly smirk, even as Eileen glared at Yelena with the expression of someone gearing up for an interrogation.


    "Domino hired me! That''s the only reason I got past the checks!" Yelena blurted out.


    Domino''s grin faded, as she sputtered out, "T-that! You can''t turn this around on me!?"


    "Sorry, Dom, every girl for herself." Yelena snarked back, a superior smirk on her face.


    Eileen looked like she wanted to go back into sweet unconsciousness, "You two¡­ We will be talking." She said quietly, but with intensity.


    Both women immediately turned pleading expressions on Justin.


    "Listen to our head of security." Justin said with a pleased smirk, "Glad to have you back Eileen, these two have been a handful without you here riding herd on them."


    In the end, it took hours for the screening to be done, but eventually she passed through. She was back, Eileen was herself again.


    Unfortunately she''d been brought to Magneto''s base unconscious due to no longer being part of the Brotherhood. She''d accepted, as she''d seen it as an obvious and needed precaution.


    But it did leave them with no further knowledge on where Magneto had been holed up, because in either case, it was likely he was no longer there.


    But even an old base could have given some clues.


    She''d woken up already under control after that and all her memories of that time are too fuzzy for her to recall for the most part - like she''d been in a fugue state as someone else drove her body. She had confirmed that Magneto was likewise under control though, although she didn''t believe he''d succumbed until after she had.


    Great news that¡­ Just absolutely fantastic.


    She didn''t have anything but a name she''d heard once, something that pierced through the fugue.


    Sinister.


    Justin immediately called Emma, stepping away from the others.


    "Justin." The cold clipped tone answered him.


    The arctic circle might melt before this woman ever did, he thought. I wouldn''t mind the chance to give her a go, but she''s way too frigid and too much or a bitch for even me.


    "Emma, we have a lead on who''s behind Magneto disappearing, and a confirmation that he is under control." He said steadily. He and Emma had agreed to work together in several sectors, mostly anything involving Metahumans. And they were of course working together with the Hellfire club as well.


    He could literally feel her attention focusing on him through the phone, "Who?" She said icily, an undertone of threat in her voice.


    The Hellfire club was built by reprehensible people, but its current kings and queens were invested in Metahumans, so anyone using Magneto as a possible trojan horse - was of great import.


    They were also spending resources on finding out more on what Trask had mentioned of a Sentinel program. Saving Justin the headache of another thing on his list.


    "Do you know anyone with the name, Sinister?" He himself recognized the name, but he had no memories of what or who the person was.


    "...I''ll call you back." The line went dead.


    That couldn''t possibly be a good sign.


    <hr>


    August 3rd 2008,


    In the rolling hills of upstate New York, the sun cast a golden glow over a sprawling, state-of-the-art facility. The complex was a testament to modern architecture and cutting edge technology, its sleek glass and steel structure gleaming against the backdrop of lush greenery. Tony Stark, flanked by Happy, Yinsen, and Pepper, led the group on a tour of his latest venture.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Mostly because both Yinsen and Pepper had insisted that he leave his workshop for a day. Due to silly concerns, really, but even Jarvis had agreed, so he''d capitulated in the end. While on his forced day out, he figured he''d inspect his new factory. Even if it was mostly just finished on the outside, much more work needed to be done internally to get it up and running.


    Pepper hadn''t been enthused about him turning around her idea of getting some sun and air, and taking it to the next level, taking them to New York in his private jet. She''d been even more mad when she realized he''d installed one of his suit stations in the plane.


    Pepper wasn''t the biggest fan to say the least. But he knew she''d come around. Both Yinsen and Happy were fine with it. Mostly.


    Tony''s enthusiasm was palpable as they entered the facility. Dressed in a sharp, casual suit with his signature sunglasses perched on his nose, he exuded confidence and energy - helped out by 5 red bulls on the flight, a necessity, as he hadn''t really slept right his past ni- okay - week¡­ "Welcome to the future, folks," He declared, spreading his arms wide. "This is where the magic happens, or will happen anyway."


    Happy, in his usual suit and earpiece, stayed close to Tony, eyes constantly scanning the surroundings, having taken his job way more seriously as of late. Yinsen, dressed in a modest but stylish outfit, walked beside Tony, his expression one of admiration and curiosity. Pepper, in a professional but comfortable ensemble, kept pace with the group, her demeanor steady and pragmatic.


    And she was only looking slightly annoyed. Her eyes flashing with something indecipherable every time Tony met them.


    "As you can see," Tony continued, his voice brimming with glee, "We''re sparing no expense. This facility is designed to produce the next generation of drones - drones that will revolutionize industries across the globe. Construction, agriculture, heavy industry - you name it, these babies are going to be able to do it."


    They entered a large, open space where rows of sleek, robotic drones were lined up, each in various stages of assembly. The facility buzzed with activity, technicians and engineers moving efficiently, their workstations filled with advanced tools and equipment.


    It was the only part of the facility that was fully operational, something he''d insisted on so that he could show off a finished product to Obie and the board, and get the military off his back a little, with robotics that did not in fact have weapons, but instead did the heavy lifting and drudge work. In theory. But his theories were always right.


    Tony stopped beside one of the nearly completed drones, a sophisticated machine with a sleek, aerodynamic design. "Meet the Stark 1.0," He said, patting the drone affectionately. "Faster, smarter, and more versatile than anything Hammer has on the market. These drones will change the way we live and work."


    Yinsen examined the drone closely, nodding appreciatively. "Impressive, Tony. The advancements in AI and robotics here are remarkable." He murmured.


    Yinsen had of course seen his suit, so he knew Tony could do so much more with it. With Jarvis being the pinnacle of design, the lesser AI that would run these bots had been a piece of cake.


    He could have made them in his sleep, really.


    Tony grinned and clapped the man on the shoulder, clearly enjoying the praise. "I knew you''d appreciate it, Yinsen. This is just the beginning. Imagine a world where dangerous, mundane, and repetitive tasks are handled by these bots. People can focus on creativity, innovation, and personal growth." He smiled wistfully, what I couldn''t have done early on with these bots taking care of all the drudgery.


    Pepper, ever the voice of the boring and of reason, interjected quietly. "Tony, it''s amazing, but we need to think about the implications, too. Job displacement, ethical considerations, safety protocols. We have to address these issues head-on now - because our competitors will hit us hard on it." She looked pained, shaking her head, "Not to mention the different interest groups, the anti-AI lobby will sue all the way up to the Supreme Court."


    Tony waved a dismissive hand. "Of course, Pep. We''ll have all the necessary measures in place. This is about enhancing human potential, not entirely replacing it. And besides, we''re creating some new jobs too - high-tech positions that will drive the economy forward."


    He frowned minutely, because he knew that in terms of numbers, he''d take away more jobs then he added. But it was the best way forward. He could trust the bots, and he didn''t have to worry about the issues that came with human employees. Especially with Hammer taking all the good ones with his unfair benefits.


    Happy chimed in unexpectedly, his tone more cautious. "You know, Tony, Pepper''s got a point. People are going to think that you''re just building machines to take over their jobs."


    Well¡­ Because I kind of am, he thought, mood souring slightly, he''d been trying to avoid thinking about it too much, focusing on the good he''d do.


    Tony nodded at Happy, acknowledging his point, though his expression remained confident. "Don''t worry, Happy. We''ll get that covered. We''ll launch an educational campaign, partnerships with educational institutions, and a full on media blitz. People will see the benefits."


    As they continued the tour, Pepper walked up next to him, she smiled softly as she couldn''t help but marvel at Tony''s vision, despite her concerns. "You always aim high, Tony. Just remember, it''s not just about what we can do, but how we do it." She cautioned.


    Tony flashed her a charming smile. "I know, Pep. That''s why I have you. To keep me grounded."


    She blushed, and his grin widened.


    With Obie taking over most of the running of the company, he and Pepper had spent a lot more time together as she mostly hung around his Malibu home now. She even slept over most nights.


    Unfortunately not in his bed. But then again he never saw it either.


    They reached the end of the tour, where a large observation deck offered a panoramic view of the entire facility - most of it still a work in progress. Tony turned to face the group, his expression one of triumphant anticipation. "This is just the start." He muttered, holding onto the railing, eyes intent, "Stark Industries is about to take another giant leap forward. The future is here, and it''s brighter than ever." Space¡­ Space is next.


    Yinsen placed a hand on Tony''s shoulder, his eyes filled with genuine respect. "You''ve come a long way, Tony. You''re a better man."


    Tony''s smug facade softened for a moment, replaced by a rare look of sincerity. "Thanks, Yinsen. It means a lot."


    The tranquility of the facility was shattered by a deafening explosion. The ground trembled as the roof above them suddenly caved in, sending fire and debris raining down. Chaos erupted as the once orderly space turned into a scene of destruction.


    Pipes burst and water erupted for a brief moment, dousing the flames, before another explosion sounded out, right above them.


    "Everyone, get down!" Tony shouted, instinctively moving to shield his friends. But the force of the blast separated him from the group, debris forming a barrier between them as half the roof cut the observation deck in half, both halves falling to the ground in a deafening noise of ruptured and screaming metal.


    Pepper, Happy, and Yinsen were on the other side, their voices muffled by the chaos. Tony could barely make out their calls for him amidst the noise. He felt incredible relief, because the noise meant they were still alive.


    "Jarvis, report!" Tony yelled, struggling to stay calm as he dodged falling beams and debris. His futuristic looking wrist watch having a connection to his buddy.


    "Sir, the facility has been completely compromised. I''m attempting to get the suit over for defensive purposes." Jarvis responded, his voice steady despite the urgency.


    "Get it here fast and call for help!" Tony commanded, coughing, as smoke filled the air. He looked up, squinting through the dust and flames.


    Above the gaping hole in the roof, a sinister figure floated on a glider, cackling maniacally. It was the Green Goblin, his green and purple costume garish against the night sky. He juggled more bombs in his hands, his laughter echoing eerily.


    Tony remembered seeing the news report about the lunatic who''d bombed Oscorp, was he just going after all the billionaires, or what?


    "You should have never insulted me, Stark!" the Green Goblin shouted, his voice dripping with madness and fury.


    Tony frowned, wracking his brain for any encounter with this costumed nutjob. "When the hell did I ever talk to you, let alone insult you?" he muttered to himself, edging away from his position due to the flames encroaching.


    "Jarvis, do we have any history on this guy?" Tony asked, his eyes never leaving the Green Goblin even as he slowly moved behind better coverage.


    He really wished he could get in the suit without the whole involved process, but Jarvis taking it over and flying it here would have to do. Jarvis could drive this Lord of the Rings reject away.


    "Searching records, sir," Jarvis replied.


    The Green Goblin hurled another bomb into the facility, the explosion shaking the ground once more. "This is what you get for mocking me!" he screamed.


    Tony ducked behind a large piece of debris, using it as temporary cover. "Come on, Jarvis, I need you here yesterday!" He whisper- screamed, face paling as he found the body of one of his engineers, a steel beam perforating his torso. It''s happening again! All of them are dying because of me!


    Pepper! Happy! Yinsen!


    "Jarvis!" He said harshly, his knuckles white as he stared at the young kid, just out of MIT. He recognized him because he''d personally snapped him up for his robotics division, using the personal touch to beat out Hammer.


    The kid had dreams, big dreams¡­. And now he was dead, all because some nut job wanted a crack at him.


    "ETA is approximately thirty seconds, sir," Jarvis informed him.


    Tony glanced around, assessing his options. He was unarmed and out of his element without his suit, but he wasn''t helpless. He picked up a piece of metal, ready to use it as a makeshift weapon if necessary. No way was he going to just meekly go to his death.


    He''d smack those bombs right back up at him, he had excellent eye to hand coordination, he could do it.


    The Green Goblin continued his tirade, tossing bombs with reckless abandon. "You think you''re untouchable, Stark? You think your money and toys can protect you from me?" He cackled, sounding absolutely insane.


    Tony''s mind raced. He had faced many enemies, but this one seemed personal in a way he didn''t understand. "Come on, who the hell are you?" He muttered, frustration boiling over.


    Just then, the familiar sound of repulsors filled the air. The Green Goblin dodged as Jarvis opened fire. Soon disappearing out of sight from the holes in the roof as the two began to battle it out in the sky.


    "Finally," Tony breathed, before he began running towards the other side of the factory, trying to get to Pepper and the others. Hissing as his hands burned as he pulled away burning hot metal.


    ¡­


    Pepper, Happy, and Yinsen struggled to reach safety amidst the wreckage. Happy shielded Pepper as Yinsen tried to clear a path through the debris, several burns littered Happy''s face and neck, blood dribbling from where he''d hit his head, tossing himself over Pepper to protect her.


    "Come on, we need to get out of here!" Happy urged, his voice strained.


    Pepper looked around, worry etched on her face. "Tony¡­" She whispered, knowing he couldn''t hear her but hoping he could somehow sense her concern, and that he''d made it out.


    Some metal shifted, and they all froze expecting something to fall down and crush them any moment. Instead, with a groan, a piece of metal roofing was pushed aside, Tony Stark stumbling through, sooty, and burned all over his hands and arms, but alive.


    "Tony!" Pepper cried out, rushing for him, grabbing him and hugging him desperately, before suddenly kissing him, locking her lips with his like a starving woman finally finding nourishment.


    Everyone froze again, this time for a different reason.


    Pepper detached moments later, her face fully red, "Ah, um, I-I wasn''t thinking." She stammered out.


    Tony licked his lips, his eyes slightly unfocused, "You should not think a lot more then¡­" He said, his thoughts running a mile a minute.


    "Sir, the armor is no longer functional." Jarvis reported, and Tony felt a chill down his back.


    "That lunatic got the best of you Jarv, buddy?" He asked in pure disbelief, "And shit, we better get out of here!" He grabbed Pepper''s arm, having to hold back from returning the favor as he saw her bite her lip, her cheeks still a beautiful red. Not the time, Tony, he told himself.


    "The Green Goblin is escaping, reinforcements have arrived, sir." Jarvis reported.


    Reinforcements? Tony wondered, before the outer wall not too far from them, practically melted, a high energy beam slagging it.


    "Not to worry citizens, HAMMER is here!" Came the voice out of a speaker, the Vulture armor stepping through, its wings folded to allow him passage. "Oh, look it''s Stark again, I wonder if we get a bonus for saving the same guy twice?" He pondered out loud.


    Oh¡­ Oh no¡­ Please not these guys.


    "Tony! You okay!?" The Warmachine entered behind the Vulture, and Tony''s mood soured further, seeing his best friend working for the enemy. Even if it was to save him.


    That and it made him absolutely mad with anger that the asshole Hammer had crafted a suit for his sugarplum before he could have! Not to mention forcing him to spend several days a month working with that crap team¡­


    Tony was on to Hammer, he didn''t know what cloning tech he had to pull that bullshit with Barnes as the new Captain America - like hell the guy was the same guy from the 40''s - but he''d find out, oh he would find out alright.


    "I''m fine, Rhodey." He sighed, as Warmachine stomped over, looking him over, scanning him.


    "Jesus, Tony, that''s third degree burns, you are not fine!" He tilted his head slightly, speaking into comms, "Warmachine to rearguard, we''re going to need a few doses of the good stuff."


    Tony looked around at his crumbling factory, and then at Hammer''s team, god dammit, I''m behind again¡­


    Some time later,


    The fact the press somehow had managed to arrive while he was being treated was just the icing on the cake really. Just the cherry on top of this shitty day.


    Hammer saves Stark.


    If that wasn''t the headline tomorrow, he''d join a convent. Fucking Hammer.


    Worst of all, with the factory demolished. He''d have to actually¡­ Renegotiate with the prick, because now he needed him to take on a heavier load, it would be months before he was ready to go at the same capacity now.


    His eyes narrowed as he watched the partial gathering of the HAMMER team. Only three members present.


    Was the Green Goblin one of his? Oscorp first, now me?


    "Jarvis¡­ I want you to dig into Hammer industries a bit more, slow and careful, but I want info." He ordered quietly, as soon as he had some privacy.


    "Certainly sir."


    At least there was one silver lining - at least now, if they tried to bully him out of his workshop - he had definite proof that he was safer inside it then out.


    <hr>


    Russia, Red Room secret supply depot.


    Bucky, dressed in tactical black attire that allowed for maximum mobility and stealth, led the way. His attire was sleek and functional, consisting of a fitted long-sleeve armored shirt, with cargo pants equipped with multiple pockets, and combat boots. His bionic arm had its new Vibranium metal surface darkened to reduce reflection, and fit more comfortably then he''d ever had before. His face was set in a mask of concentration, eyes sharp and alert.


    It was a comfort to him, to do this first mission in something understated, instead of the Captain America uniform he felt so uncomfortable in. And to be able to right one of the many wrongs he''d seen¡­ The Black Widow program - it seemed Hammer did deliver on his words after all.


    Bucky would get to make amends, saving the world.


    Yelena was equally attired in black, and moved beside him with the grace and agility of a trained assassin. Her blonde hair was tied back in a tight braid, and her eyes, cold and calculating, scanned their surroundings constantly. She carried a compact set of tools and weapons, each chosen for their utility in infiltration and close combat.


    Both of them carried multiple shots of Panacea just in case, above the load they already carried for the mission.


    Only through Yelena''s skills and his memories could they even do this at all. Dreykov had not been lazy.


    The Red Room was utterly paranoid with its Widows, sedating them before entry and exit to ensure they didn''t know exactly where the actual Red Room was.


    Even mind controlled however, Yelena was an expert spy and assassin, so she''d memorized the interior of the facilities, as a spy was wont to do. And even if she couldn''t give the exact location of the Red Room at any given time - she knew where one of the depots was that supplied it - and sedated Widows for travel.


    Bucky however knew even more, as he''d been regularly sent to train Widows, and knew half a dozen of the depots to boot. As he was always mind wiped after missions, Dreykov had never had a reason to hide anything from him.


    So they had the full layout of the facility, the way to get there, and if all else failed, they could utilize the HAMMER team that was laying in wait as backup in Latvia, ready to fly in and crush the facility if Bucky and Yelena ran into problems.


    To assist in their goal, and keep Dreykov looking out, not in. Two of the depots Bucky knew about, where being hit by what appeared to be Czechen terrorists.


    In actuality, they were Hammer''s people.


    Bucky and Yelena crouched in the dense underbrush, their eyes fixed on the massive Red Room facility hovering ominously above the forest. The flying fortress, a marvel of Soviet-era engineering, floated silently in the night sky, its metallic bulk illuminated by occasional flashes of heat in their binoculars.


    Without the tech they''d been provided with, it would be impossible to see. It was too far up, and the facility was running some sort of field that bent the light or otherwise rendered it invisible to the naked eye.


    Bucky put his insanely capable binoculars back in its designated slot on his outfit. Glancing down at the ground bound facility they''d have to infiltrate first. One of the relay and supply depot stations that both brought food, and dealt with sedating and transporting Widows back to base.


    "We need to get up there first," Bucky said, his voice low but firm. "Got any ideas?"


    They''d already hatched a plan, but Bucky knew that what was put on paper and planned in advance didn''t always match up once on location. Like what was already happening.


    Yelena nodded, her gaze leaving the floating fortress as she put away her own binoculars. "There''s a supply drone launch pad nearby. We can hijack one of the drones and use it to get up to the facility."


    Bucky raised an eyebrow, pondering it. "A bit of a departure from the original plan, but not necessarily a bad one, explain your reasoning."


    Yelena scrunched her nose up, looking down at the facility below their hillside vantage point, "I don''t see any of the aircraft, so despite our intelligence, there''s no Widow returning to base, or she has already done so, finishing her mission early. Either way, we can''t wait for another one, and the supply drones are large enough to carry food, they can haul us as well, although we will definitely have to neutralize the people who will no doubt inspect it, once we arrive."


    Bucky slowly nodded his head, chewing over all of that, "Proceed." He said simply, agreeing with her over the change of parameters.


    Yelena led them through the forest, moving with the grace and agility of a trained assassin, Bucky following along easily enough, superbly trained as well, albeit not as graceful. They navigated around security patrols and surveillance with practiced ease, avoiding detection as they made their way to the drone launch pad. The pad was a small, open area with several drones stationed, ready for deployment.


    To their benefit, one drone was already opened up, crates being loaded onto it. It would mean they would not have to create an unscheduled drop off. They could have managed, but it would have started the fight early.


    They crouched behind a large tree, assessing the situation. Two guards patrolled the area, their attention focused on their surroundings. While three people loaded the crates. None of them could be allowed to get a warning off.


    Bucky and Yelena exchanged a nod, then moved in perfect sync. Bucky sprinted forward, and took down one guard with a swift, silent strike to the neck, breaking it, while Yelena ended the other with a precise stab to the temple with one of her knives - having flown out from behind the tree like a Olympic sprinter, completely blind siding the tired and bored guard.


    Before the people loading the drone could even do more than drop their load, they were dead, two shot through the forehead by Bucky''s silenced pistol, one gurgling as he fell to the tarmac, one hand futilely reaching for the knife in his jugular.


    With the guards neutralized, they approached the open drone. Yelena quickly accessed the control panel, her fingers flying over the keys as she bypassed the security protocols. While the Red Room itself changed protocols often, the supply depot had not, and she was easily able to get past the security.


    "Got it," she said, a note of triumph in her voice. "Climb in."


    They climbed into the back of the large drone, the size of a decent sized van. It was cramped with the load it held, but they made due. Dumping the load would only ensure the scanners caught something anomalous once they got close to the Red Room. A bit of extra weight only meant more food, drastically lower weight meant something was up.


    Yelena activated the controls, and the drone lifted off the ground with a hum. They ascended rapidly, the forest shrinking below them as the massive bulk of the Red Room facility loomed closer, not that they could see it until they entered its field.


    The supply depots were not heavily manned, so she knew it would likely be an hour or two until the dead men would be missed or found - so they were on the clock, but not dangerously so.


    As they flew into the underbelly of the fortress, Yelena overrode the drone, and expertly maneuvered the drone towards a maintenance hatch, partially obscured by shadows as it took a more circuitous route to its loading bay end goal. She popped the drone open, and Bucky reached out, using his enhanced strength to pry open the maintenance hatch. They both slipped inside, the drone quietly returning to its predefined route, Yelena kicking the drone''s door closed with a powerful kick as it flew off.


    They''d planned to simply overpower the guards who''d check on the food delivery, but when she spotted the hatch it had been too good of an opportunity to not take advantage of.


    Inside the facility, they found themselves in a narrow maintenance shaft, the walls lined with cables and pipes. The air was thick with the smell of oil and metal. Bucky replaced the hatch, ensuring it was securely closed before they moved deeper into the heart of the Red Room.


    Navigating the labyrinthine corridors required skill and knowledge, both of which Yelena possessed in abundance. She led the way, her movements confident and sure. They encountered and bypassed several security checkpoints, each one bypassed with a combination of Yelena''s intimate knowledge of the facility''s layout and their shared super soldier strength and amazing tech advantage, that allowed them to cut or muscle their way into the walls and other maintenance tunnels to bypass security.


    As they progressed, the interior of the Red Room revealed itself in all its sinister glory. The walls were cold, clinical and dark, interrupted by the occasional splash of red - warning signs, security panels, and the ever-present insignia of the Red Room. The hallways were tight and confined, designed to limit the rapid movement of personnel and equipment in case of rebellion. Overhead, fluorescent lights cast a harsh, unyielding glare.


    They passed by a training area, where a group of young recruits were being drilled by stern-faced instructors. The sight made Yelena''s jaw tighten - she had been one of those recruits once. Bucky placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder before they moved on, sticking to the shadows.


    They would save them today. But they''d face a lot of issues with the Black Widows onboard if they went after the young students first.


    They''d already have been caught by now if the perception filter some new egghead had crafted for the operation didn''t completely spoof all cameras - making them invisible to electronic sight.


    Bucky could say this for Hammer, he provided the best toys.


    Both of them carried heavy bags on their backs, filled with Panacea shots - an advanced serum designed to free the Black Widows from their mind control. Normally it was a team effort between the shot and the cradle, but that was obviously not an option here. So the serum had been somewhat supercharged, which should knock the mind control straight out, but without the cradle to stabilize and bind it, the Widows wouldn''t keep the regeneration unless they joined Hammer industries to get access to the cradle.


    Bucky almost thought it was a predatory move from Hammer, if Yelena hadn''t confirmed that was how it all worked. And as she''d been a Black Widow, surely she was on her sister''s side in this?


    Their first destination was the sleeping quarters, where dozens of Black Widows lay in a drug-induced slumber, unaware of the liberation that awaited them. Handcuffed to their cots, because even in sleep and mind controlled, they had no freedom.


    They paused at a corner, Bucky holding up a hand to signal a halt. Two guards patrolled the corridor ahead, their expressions bored but vigilant. With silent, coordinated precision, Bucky and Yelena moved in. Bucky took the guard on the left, delivering a swift, and brutal blow to the head, before he, with a quick motion, twisted the head sideways. Yelena handled the guard on the right, her movements fluid and lethal as she was within his guard instantly. Within seconds, the guards were down, and their path was clear.


    Time was ticking, and they hadn''t had time to go around this time, especially when they were so close. Their perception filter would cover the fight, but wouldn''t cover the fact the men were no longer to be seen patrolling anywhere.


    They''d dragged them into a supply closet to give them some extra time, but they were now down to imminent reveal.


    "Sleeping quarters are just ahead," Yelena whispered, her voice barely audible.


    Bucky nodded, leading them forward. They reached a heavy, reinforced door. Yelena quickly accessed the control panel, her fingers flying over the keys - finding to her frustration that this time it wouldn''t be that easy. Bucky solved it by putting his fist through the panel, as she gave him a deadpan look. The door slid open with a soft hiss, revealing rows of bunk beds, each occupied by a slumbering Black Widow.


    "Well they''ll know we''re here now." She muttered, getting to it. Someone would come investigate why the door controls suddenly alarmed as non-functional. Their filter wouldn''t do much to keep the sight of freed Black Widows all over the room from the command center.


    They entered the room, moving quickly but quietly. Bucky set down his bag, pulling out the first syringe of Panacea. He handed it to Yelena, who approached the nearest bed. Gently, she injected the serum into the sleeping woman''s arm. The Black Widow stirred soon after, her eyes fluttering open. Confusion gave way to clarity as the mind control was lifted.


    "It''s okay," Yelena whispered, her tone soothing. "You''re free now. We''re here to help."


    The woman blinked, her eyes widening as she realized the truth. She nodded, tears of relief welling up before she pulled them back, professionalism setting in. Yelena squeezed her hand reassuringly before using her newfound super strength to crush the hand cuff, moving to the next bed to do the same thing.


    Bucky and Yelena worked in tandem, dosing each Black Widow with the powerful Panacea shots. The room was filled with soft murmurs and the occasional gasp of realization as one by one, the women woke from their enforced loyalty. Yelena was well known, and the ones already awakened quickly explained things to those who were recently brought awake.


    As they reached the end of the row, a sudden noise made them freeze. Bucky spun around, ready for a fight, but it was another Black Widow, now freed from mind control, rising to her feet, her handcuff dangling from one wrist, she''d gotten out of it on her own, a short red haired Black Widow sending them apologetic looks, it seemed she hadn''t gotten to her quick enough to explain things after Bucky had injected her.


    "What''s happening?" she asked, her voice trembling, even though she looked ready for a fight, feet planted, her body turned to give her the best angle.


    Yelena approached her slowly, hands raised, her expression gentle. "You''re free. The mind control is gone. We''re here to help you escape."


    The woman''s eyes filled with a mix of fear and hope. "But what about the others? The guards?" Her fists clenched, "I''m not leaving anyone behind." She insisted.


    "We''ll handle them, no one''s being left behind," Bucky assured her, his voice steady, as he met her eyes. "Just stay quiet and follow our lead."


    They finished administering the Panacea shots, freeing every Black Widow in the room. As the women gathered, whispering among themselves, Yelena gave them quick instructions. "If you run into any of your sisters, each of you''ll be given three of these shots." She held up the syringes. "One shot is enough to destroy the mind control, we''re going to sweep this entire base, with your help, everyone goes free today."


    "What will you be doing, sister?" One of the Widows asked, the entire group, almost as one, facing her expectantly.


    She grinned viciously, "I''m going after Dreykov." She purred, Bucky standing solid as a statue next to her, watching for the attack he knows is coming. Sooner or later. The alarm must be going by now, although it seemed this facility did not subscribe to the loud blaring alarm of most secret bases he''d had to infiltrate before.


    As soon as they exited the room, they faced down several firing squads, but the Widows had no problem using another exit to go around and flanking them, while Bucky and Yelena kept them busy.


    Soon all you could hear was shouts of pain, as the vengeful Black Widows descended on the guards. After that, they split up, Bucky and Yelena moving forward with a few Widows following - the rest moving to cleanse the rest of the facility and wake their sisters.


    Bucky and Yelena moved with purpose, leading the few freed Black Widows they had with them through the winding corridors of the facility. Each step brought them closer to Dreykov, the puppet master behind their suffering. The urgency was palpable, with the subtle hum of the alarm system felt through the walls, though not blaring audibly, were a constant reminder that their presence was now known.


    The possibility existed that Dreykov would flee.


    They reached the central hub, a sprawling control room filled with monitors and personnel. Yelena signaled for the group to halt, her eyes scanning for Dreykov amongst the many frightened staff and the stalwart Widows ready to fight and die for their master. Something she''d see fixed soon.


    "There," Bucky murmured, spotting him at the far end of the room, hidden behind a partition, working frantically at a keypad. The man was flanked by several Widows, his expression a mix of anger and fear.


    "Yelena Belova," Dreykov''s voice boomed as he spotted her. "I should have known you would come, you traitorous slut!" He spat out, features twisted in frustrated rage, "How much did Hammer pay you to turn on your own family?"


    Yelena stepped forward, her voice cold as the arctic, even as hate burned inside her veins. "Your reign ends today, Dreykov, I didn''t need payment, I didn''t need to sell myself, your death was coming no matter what, because I was never going to forgive you!"


    He roared something unintelligible, a forceful wave of his hand summoning his guards forward. "Kill them." He spat.


    Chaos erupted. The Black Widows surged forward, their training and newfound freedom driving them to fight with a fierce determination. So did the Black Widows on the other side of the fence as well, faces blank and uncaring. The room turned into a battlefield, a whirl of bodies and flashes of movement.


    Yelena and Bucky coordinated their efforts, leading the free Widows in a targeted advance - aiming to free the Widows, the rest of the staff hardly even an afterthought. Each step was contested, each inch hard-won. The controlled Widows fought with a mechanical precision, their attacks relentless and devoid of hesitation. They''d die for their master without hesitation.


    Yelena moved like a wraith through the melee, her agility and combat prowess allowing her to sidestep a flurry of strikes from a particularly aggressive Widow. With a swift motion, she pulled out a syringe of Panacea, her eyes locking onto her target. She deflected a punch with her forearm, twisting to the side and plunging the needle into the woman''s neck.


    The effect was immediate. The Widow''s eyes widened in surprise and confusion, her body going slack as the mind control dissolved. There was no time for reassurance, she''d have to understand what was going on from context, as she continued the fight.


    Bucky, with his enhanced strength and combat training, was a force of nature as he mowed through the forces arrayed against him. He blocked a high kick aimed at his head, grabbing the attacker''s leg and flipping her onto her back. With precise efficiency, he injected her with the Panacea, then turned to face the next threat.


    The controlled Widows, while formidable, were slowly being turned. For every strike they landed, a syringe found its mark, breaking their chains and bringing them into the fight for freedom. The tide of the battle began to shift as more and more Widows switched sides.


    One Widow, particularly fierce, charged at Yelena with a flurry of punches. Yelena ducked and weaved, avoiding the blows, then grabbed the woman''s wrist, twisting it and forcing her to drop her weapon. With her other hand, she injected the Panacea into the woman''s arm, holding her steady until the transformation took hold, her eyes flickering across the large room and its quickly lessening fighting.


    The controlled Widow''s face contorted in shock, her movements faltering. She blinked rapidly, as if waking from a long nightmare. Yelena pulled her into a quick embrace, then pushed her gently towards the newly formed line of freed Widows.


    "Welcome back," Yelena murmured, turning to face another opponent.


    The room was a cacophony of shouts and the sounds of combat. Syringes glinted in the dim light, each one a lifeline for the controlled Widows. The free Widows moved with a renewed sense of purpose, their actions fluid and coordinated. They worked in pairs, one distracting while the other administered the Panacea, their teamwork seamless - there were now only a few left, the staff dead or cowering as a byproduct of the fighting.


    Those who hadn''t fled, only to end up running into the Widows cleansing the rest of the facility.


    None of the staff would face a good end today.


    Bucky found himself face-to-face with a particularly skilled Widow, her movements a blur of speed and precision. She aimed a kick at his chest, which he blocked, then followed up with a series of rapid punches. He parried each blow, his metal arm absorbing the impact. She then made the mistake to grapple with him, trying to throw him off his feet, his metal arm grabbed her tight as he stabbed her in the side with a syringe, dropping her gently before he returned to the fight.


    As the last of the controlled Widows were freed, the battle began to wind down. The room, once filled with the sounds of combat, grew quieter. The freed Widows gathered, their breathing heavy, but their eyes filled with a newfound light.


    "Dreykov''s control is broken here, but we have to ensure it never happens again. We take this facility, we free anyone still trapped, and we dismantle the human part of their operation piece by piece." Yelena told them, glancing at Bucky, who nodded, telling her he''d take care of the rest of it. "Listen to him, I''ll be back shortly." She shouted as she left.


    Yelena sprinted off after Dreykov, leaving Bucky to organize and continue the cleansing of the facility. The last she heard was his voice sternly telling the Widows that no, they could not blow the place up.


    Yelena''s focus was singular now, Dreykov. She pushed through the guards he''d left behind to cover his escape, regular ones, his Widows expended to fight their own, her fists were a blur of motion, each strike bringing her closer to her target. Dreykov had retreated through a secret entrance, his confidence no doubt wavering as he realized his end was near with their rebellion so close.


    Bucky, meanwhile, coordinated the Widows, ensuring each had a syringe of Panacea, as they joined their other sisters scouring the facility.


    Dreykov had reached a reinforced door at the back of the long corridor he''d escaped into, frantically typing in a code. The door slid open, revealing another hidden corridor, leading towards a personal hangar. He bolted down it, Yelena hot on his heels.


    Yelena chased Dreykov through the narrow corridor, her breath steady, her determination unwavering. She caught up to him at the end, where he stood before a large window overlooking the hangar below.


    "You''re done!" Yelena said, her voice a low growl. She cracked her knuckles, mostly for effect, as she knew she couldn''t make him suffer too badly until Justin had wrung him dry.


    But then¡­ Then she''d get him, and she could take all the time she wanted. And with Panacea on tap, she could keep him for years. Her face turned positively cruel as she slowly sashayed forward. "You''ll suffer for each girl you''ve murdered, raped, tortured and controlled."


    Dreykov turned, a sneer on his face. "You think you can end this, end me? There will always be more, this won''t stop just because of me, girl, there will always be someone controlling girls like you.."


    "Not if I have anything to say about it," Yelena retorted. She prepared to take him down. She might not be allowed to damage him too badly, but a little beating never hurt anyone.


    She lunged at him, only to freeze at the last moment, eyes wide in shock as she couldn''t just slam into the snake of a man standing before her.


    Dreykov let out a shaky breath, sweat dripping off his face, "Heh, glad to see that worked." He gave her a superior look, "You can''t touch me, Yelena¡­ I assume you''ve used Hammer''s drug to get past the mind control, but apparently it can''t get past the scent conditioning I''ve attuned you to, you can''t attack me." He grinned, a cruel vicious grin. "I''m going to enjoy this." He said as he stepped towards her slowly.


    Without hesitation Yelena stabbed herself in the face, Dreykov shrieking in shock, Yelena was relentless, her movements fueled by years of pain and a burning desire for justice¡­ She had regeneration, some pain was nothing.


    Freed from her sense of smell, the nerves unable to heal with the knife still lodged in there, she viciously took Dreykov down, accidentally breaking all his limbs, and she accidentally dropped some knives with her slippery fingers too, Dreykov would live without balls, and Justin couldn''t be too mad at her. It was all an accident from having a knife lodged into her face.


    With a groan, she slid it out, standing before Dreykov''s unconscious body. Really? Of all the things for regeneration to not remove, it was scent conditioning? Perhaps the body saw it as part of itself now after all these years? It would make torturing the man very annoying. Perhaps the scientists could figure it out.


    Either way, she had her revenge. She had her sisters. They''d track down those who were out on missions.


    And most importantly, she blushed slightly, they had the flying fortress, and giving that to Justin would surely beget a reward right?


    She squirmed slightly.


    Maybe¡­ M-maybe she could even ask for¡­


    She covered her face in her hands, beet red. She could hear her sisters getting close, and she didn''t want to look too ridiculous.


    She tossed her hair as she put a foot on Dreykov''s chest, there, now I don''t look ridiculous, she thought, as she posed, waiting for her sister''s to arrive.


    <hr>


    Several days later, Cairo, Hammer''s Compound.


    Justin Hammer quietly opened the door to the expansive training room in his Cairo compound, slipping inside unnoticed. The room was bathed in soft, warm light from the large artificial windows, and the hum of hushed voices filled the air. He paused in the doorway, taking in the scene with keen interest.


    He''d been thrilled when Yelena had succeeded so spectacularly on her mission. The Red Room facility would need a lot of work to become space worthy, but it was a good catch even if they decided to keep it as just a fortress in the sky.


    He hadn''t seen much of her or the Widows since then however, so when he heard from Sunil that they were practicing nearby, he''d gone over to see what they were doing.


    Yelena Belova stood in the center of the room, exuding confidence and authority. Around her, a dozen stunningly beautiful Black Widows moved with practiced grace and precision. Each woman wore a uniform that was both alluring and barely proper - tight, short skirts, low-cut blouses, and high heels that accentuated their legs, almost professional looking - if they were hired as secretaries and maids in a porn movie. They listened intently as Yelena spoke, her voice clear and commanding.


    Justin pinched the bridge of his nose as he saw a whiteboard, the topic header - Harem training.


    Yelena¡­ He thought with exasperation.


    "Remember, ladies, Justin Hammer is not just any man. He''s powerful, ambitious, and he has certain... Expectations," Yelena said, her eyes sweeping over the group. "He values grace, elegance, and precision. You need to be perfect in every way."


    What the fuck Yelena!? He thought, staring as the Black Widow believed every word out of her mouth, nodding thoughtfully.


    A statuesque redhead raised her hand, her expression curious. "What exactly does Mr. Hammer like? How should we act around him?" She wanted to know.


    Yelena smiled, clearly enjoying her role as instructor. "Justin appreciates confidence and competence. Be assertive but respectful. He likes it when you anticipate his needs before he even has to ask. Pay attention to the little details. And remember, while you need to be professional, a little charm and allure go a long way." Yelena smiled coyly, "He really likes strong women."


    Well¡­ Yes, true, but Yelena¡­ We talked about this¡­ Justin didn''t hold any doubts that they''d all noticed him already, but Yelena continued the meeting anyway.


    A petite blonde with an innocent face but a mischievous glint in her eye spoke up next. "What about... Personal preferences? Anything specific we should know?"


    Yep, they know I''m here. He shook his head wearily. Yelena was behind so many victories for him, but she was also behind the majority of his headaches.


    Yelena chuckled softly. "Justin likes variety, but he has a particular fondness for attentive service and genuine warmth. Make him feel special, and he''ll appreciate it. And ladies, don''t be afraid to show a little personality. He enjoys a good conversation as much as he does... Other things."


    The women nodded, absorbing the information. Another Black Widow, a tall brunette with striking green eyes, asked, "What about our roles? Are we just here as secretaries and maids, or is there more to it?"


    Yelena''s expression turned serious. "Your primary role is to support Mr. Hammer in every way possible. That means being perfect secretaries, efficient maids, and yes, sometimes more. He needs a good, proper harem - women who can handle any task, be it professional or personal, with skill and discretion." She laid out like it all made perfect sense.


    This is not what they''re here for! Spies,


    Yelena! They''re supposed to be spies and trusted administrators of my will! He closed his eyes and let his head fall back against the wall. He wasn''t opposed to having a Black Widow or two ''service'' him, but there would be no Harem!


    A murmur of understanding went through the group. Yelena continued, "You are all incredibly skilled, and this is just another role to master. Treat it with the same dedication and precision as any mission. Your adaptability and intelligence are your greatest assets."


    One of the women, a raven-haired beauty with a sharp intellect, raised her hand. "And what if Mr. Hammer asks for something... Unexpected?"


    Yelena gave a knowing smile. "Adapt. Show him that you can handle anything he throws your way with grace and poise. That''s what will set you apart and make you invaluable to him." She grinned lasciviously, "And it will also be a lot of fun!"


    With a final glance at the scene, Justin slipped back out of the room, leaving Yelena and the Black Widows to their training.


    He just knew they''d be a headache.


    Oh, he''d probably enjoy himself quite well.


    But Yelena was turning out to be perhaps a little bit more like Cho than he''d realized.


    "Domino¡­ Thank you for being the only straight shooter I''ve got left. Well¡­ Eileen now that she''s back." He said as they left to return back to work.


    Domino wriggled her nose, "Not sure if that''s a compliment or not, boss." She said, before glancing back to the room they''d left, "Not sure whether to congratulate you or pity you¡­"


    Justin let out a breath, "I''m not sure either."


    ¡­


    Back in the room,


    Yelena burst out laughing, followed by many of the widows.


    "You did great girls, did you see his face?" She chortled.


    One of them piped up, "Isn''t he going to be mad at you?"


    Yelena grinned, "Oh, I don''t mind, he needs to relax more, so some teasing to get him to not take things too seriously is good." Her expression turned slightly pink, "And if he punished me¡­ That''s okay too."


    "Big sis has it baaad."


    <hr>

 Unlikely Allies.

    <hr>


    August 12th, 2008,


    The Red Room flying fortress hovered silently above the clouds, a menacing yet awe-inspiring sight - if it could be seen by anyone but them, that is, the technology on display was enough to make Justin salivate. Inside, Justin walked with a confident stride, flanked by Yelena, Domino, and Kaecillius - who had brought them all here. The corridors, once cold and clinical, now felt alive with potential under their new control.


    Everywhere Justin walked he just saw potential. This could potentially see him hold a space station long before he''d projected it. Sure, it was a bit old, very obviously very Soviet, but Vanko would have a blast with that kind of thing.


    Ivan''s father Anton, would likely cream his pants at the idea of a Soviet built space station going up with the Vanko name attached to it, albeit not publically if they could help it. It is a secret station after all.


    Yelena led the way, her movements efficient and assured, with a pep in her step, a bright smile had permanently been etched on her face since they''d taken it. "We''ve secured everything, and found all the self-destruct safeguards - the station is yours! And the Black Widows that were saved are already being reoriented according to their respective wishes!"


    Justin had seen the numbers, after Yelena''s horrible joke had been seen through eventually by Domino. About a third of the Widows still wanted to play the spy and assassination game - the rest just wanted a life. He''d orientate those towards being his Emperor''s hands of sorts inside his own brewing mega corporation.


    Trusted skilled operatives to keep his business a well oiled machine and his rule ironclad. What else could a man ask for?


    Domino, twirling a knife idly in her hand, smirked. "You mean your army of deadly secretaries? It''s like something out of a bad spy movie."


    Justin chuckled, appreciating Domino''s snark, having grown fond of it at this point. "An army of the most skilled operatives in the world, ready to execute my will? Sounds like good business sense to me." He said smugly, feeling very pleased about things.


    Kaecillius, walking a step behind Justin, nodded with a deferential bow of his head. "Master Hammer, I believe this fortress holds untapped potential. With the right enhancements, we could blend technological and magical defenses, making it impregnable. I have several spells in mind that could fortify and strengthen this vessel for space."


    He was so eager all the time. He sometimes reminded Justin of a puppy. A puppy capable of destroying the world with the right tools¡­


    He''d better make sure he never leaves him alone at home for too long¡­


    He hadn''t checked up on Cho for a while too¡­ He should probably do that.


    Justin nodded his head, getting back on track after his little detour, and he had to admit he was intrigued at the idea, waving him on. "Go on, Kaecillius. What kind of enhancements are we talking about?" He asked.


    Magic was still a sore spot for him, but his eyes had been forcibly opened, and he refused to just leave a resource at his hands untapped.


    Now if only the Ancient One could stop sending him snarky e-mails¡­


    And this stupid portal thing could stop being so damn hard to do, he believed in it for God''s sake, he shouldn''t be having so much difficulty.


    Kaecillius''s eyes gleamed with enthusiasm. "To start, Master, we can ward the entire fortress against detection and intrusion by normal kinds just like the sanctums, making it invisible to both technological and mystical surveillance. Additionally, we could implement spells that strengthen the structure itself, making it nearly impervious to attacks." He looked sheepish for a moment, "To match the sanctums you''d need assistance from those far more skilled than I, however."


    Justin nodded thoughtfully. "Excellent start. Get together with Ivan and Forge and see how you can help strengthen and fortify what they''re already working on." He grimaced slightly, "As for the other enchantments¡­ I''m leaving them be, for now."


    He did not want to owe the Ancient One that kind of favor. Not to mention the more obviously magical he allowed the space station to become - the more risks from magical people it would likely face.


    Not to mention the risk he''d lose control of the station since he did not control magic.


    As they walked deeper into the Red Room fortress, Yelena continued like they hadn''t just segued into magic, "The Black Widows that accepted the task will serve as your hands, executing your orders and ensuring your will is carried out precisely. With their training, they''ll be able to handle any task, from espionage to corporate negotiations to making a mean cup of coffee."


    All said in a chirpy tone, Yelena almost moving towards valley girl territory if she didn''t reign in her enthusiasm soon, Justin thought, making a note of teasing her about it later.


    Justin''s eyes gleamed with glee, as he exulted in the victory that gaining this station and it''s inhabitants had been. "Perfect¡­ They will be the unseen force driving my company forward, keeping my people honest. And with the eventual implementation of AI, we won''t need many of them out in the world spying. Most of the operations can be handled from within my company, keeping our presence discreet."


    It would after all not do for the world to realize he had a small force of Black Widows at his beck and call. Every slightly suspicious death in the world would be laid at his feet if people knew he had them.


    Well people people. Those like Fury, HYDRA and the Mandarin would all figure it out he was sure. There was only so much he could hide things.


    Domino snorted, giving Yelena a slight push to her shoulder. "Look at the cute mama duck looking after her little murderous ducklings." She teased.


    Yelena was in such a good mood that she didn''t even fire back, she just smiled at the impish bodyguard.


    Justin laughed, shaking his head. "At least she isn''t actually building me a harem." He pointed out dryly, "I''d never get anything done."


    As fun of a thought as it was, he barely had time for sleep, let alone a harem.


    It was too easy being a workaholic when the work was complete domination of everything.


    He stood still as he laid a hand on the wall of the corridor they were standing in, "With this station reaching space, we''ll be confirming our dominance over this world." He said, his mind already whirling with how much they could skip ahead in the space program with an actual functioning base in space.


    And with Kaecillius able to bring people up and down, and able to bring a limited amount of supplies¡­ That''s a thought, I need to get him some students from my most trusted employees so they can learn the portal technique and shuttle supplies and personnel up and down continuously¡­


    Portal Widows?


    He shook his head with a small smirk on his face at the thought, the world wasn''t ready¡­


    He was going to do it anyway.


    Which meant he had to reply to the damn Ancient One because he''d need a supply of sling rings¡­ Well, at least she wasn''t Stephen Strange, he''d take some snark over that Tony Stark - but with magic - copy.


    Inferior copy.


    Kaecillius spoke up, his tone reverent. "Your vision is unparalleled, Master Hammer. With the combination of magic and technology, your influence will be unmatched."


    He''d gotten slightly worse, after meeting Helen Cho unfortunately, he thought.


    Justin twitched slightly at the praise, but let it go. Even if Kaecillius was ruining his moment with his fanaticism. He was way too useful to actually snap at over minor things. Being worshiped in general was great, but something about people closer to him doing it rubbed him the wrong way.


    They reached a large observation deck above Dreykov''s office, apparently limited to just his personal use, where the view of the clouds and the vast sky beyond was breathtaking. Justin paused, taking in the scene. "This is just the beginning. With this station, and the resources we have, there''s no limit to what we can achieve." Perhaps Earth isn''t the limit after all¡­


    Well¡­ No reason to get that ahead of himself.


    Domino leaned against the railing, her expression a mix of amusement and genuine admiration. "You''ve got the power, the brains, and the muscle, this really wasn''t what I''d envisioned when I signed on, you know?"


    "Regret anything?" Justin asked, curious.


    Domino looked out over the sky, a coy smirk on her face, "Yeah, I should have asked for more money."


    Yelena giggled as Justin just sighed with exasperation.


    There could never be a serious moment with these people.


    ¡­


    An hour later, Red Room control room.


    They''d all gathered in the control room, Justin going over schematics and speaking over a conference call with Ivan and Forge, Kaecillius explaining his side of things already and now just listening attentively.


    Justin was grinning excitedly, pacing back and forth, his mind racing with possibilities. "Think of the research and development we can do up there once this takes off, free from any prying eyes or governmental interference. We''ll be able to innovate like never before." No more pesky laws or nosy heroes, intelligence agencies or busybody Metahumans!


    They''d be entirely unrestrained, the advances they could make without having to worry about hiding black sites or obscuring supplies and personnel would be huge. Having a secret space station to go with the very public one he was setting up for in Africa, would be a complete game changer.


    Domino leaned forward, her expression serious for a moment as she joined the conversation for the first time. "And what about the practicalities? How do you get this thing into space?" She asked, sounding honestly curious.


    Justin gestured to the holographic display. "We''ve already got the basics covered. The fortress is designed to be self-sustaining in the air, so transitioning to space is the next logical step. We''ll need to upgrade the propulsion systems and reinforce the structure, but with Kaecillius''s magic and our tech, it''s doable."


    Now keeping its invisibility while flying up into orbit¡­ That was another matter to deal with.


    Ivan''s voice crackled over the call, "Da, not hard, good Russian build!"


    "...Don''t worry everyone, I''m here to check over all this nice communist half assed engineering after Ivan touches it." Forge piped in, sounding very dry.


    "Eeeh? American built is shit, last five years, maybe less, no good." Ivan disagreed.


    "Russian shit is American shit, just with another label slapped onto it after picking it out of the trash." Forge fired back.


    "Gentlemen, settle down, no need for an argument on this." Justin said, chuckling, the two of them argued equally as much as they had somehow become instant bros.


    Kaecillius spoke up, joining in for the first time in thirty minutes, "I can create a series of spells to enhance the propulsion systems, making them powerful enough to break through Earth''s atmosphere and into orbit." He offered eagerly.


    Justin was well aware Kaecillius still wasn''t a master and was not going to leave it to Kaecillius to be in charge of more systems, if they counted too much on magic they were in trouble if they lost Kamar-Taj as allies. But he appreciated the enthusiasm. So he shook his head, "Thank you for the offer, Kaecillius, but what you''re doing is already enough."


    "We can''t drop other projects, but do take some time to figure out what you''ll need." He told the engineer duo. They''d like drag in some of the others as well, their work going even better now that they''d had the super serum/Extremis blend.


    Except for Forge of course, who remained as he was, as he''d no doubt be much less cooperative without the mind control. Ivan had been brought in on the secret out of necessity, because the man was smart enough to figure out something was going on when Forge would eventually continue to be unenhanced even when they finished the X-gene version.


    The rest of the evening was spent in planning and arguments as they plotted ways to get into space.


    Justin had once again stolen a march against his competitors.


    <hr>


    The next morning, Cairo.


    In the heart of Justin Hammer''s Cairo compound, Eileen sat in a sleek, modern conference room, her fingers drumming lightly on the polished glass table. Across from her, Sunil Bakshi leaned back in his chair, a smirk playing on his lips.


    "So, let me get this straight," Eileen began, her voice cool and measured. "While I was out of commission, Justin acquired the Red Room which is apparently a flying fortress¡­ Somehow¡­ And he is now planning to convert it into a space station?"


    I have lost so much respect for the intelligence agencies of the world¡­ She thought, inwardly reeling at the idea a flying fortress could be kept hidden from everyone.


    And dreading the idea it would be her job to figure out a way to keep Erik from dragging it out of the sky.


    Sunil nodded, his expression one of dry amusement. "Indeed. It''s been quite the busy period. And that''s not even the half of it."


    Eileen sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Go on."


    "Well," Sunil continued, leaning forward with a theatrical flourish, "First of all, we now have a small army of Black Widows heading our way to serve as secretaries, middle management, and personal bodyguards amongst other things. Oh, and there''s the little detail of Kaecillius our court wizard, using magic to enhance our defenses. Just your average month in the life of Justin Hammer, really."


    He was enjoying this too much, she thought.


    Eileen''s eyes narrowed slightly as she fixed him with a cool glare. "Magic, yes, I noticed that, as hard as it was to believe. Of course. Why not? Anything else I should know?"


    Magic¡­ Like I didn''t have enough things to worry about. Now wizards are on the list of threats, how do I even prepare for that?


    "Let''s see," Sunil said, ticking points off on his fingers. "We''ve got AI integration plans ongoing through a mind controlled Metahuman mechanical genius, a pending alliance with HYDRA, and the ongoing corporate espionage war. A cooperative effort with Tony Stark to mine Wakanda, which by the way was nuked to the stone age. And don''t forget the personal favorites, Justin''s endless charm and Domino''s ever-present snark." Sunil smiled in a way that just ticked her off. "Oh, and we can''t forget the fantastic HAMMER superhero team with the new Captain America - the former Winter Soldier."


    How had this much happened while she''d been gone? Eileen almost felt like she''d been in a coma for a decade. She knew Justin moved at a frenetic pace, but this was getting ridiculous.


    Also Wakanda was destroyed, not that she cared about those bastards, but complete annihilation, that was a bit much for her, and no doubt just added to the list of Justin''s enemies.


    Which made it her problem.


    Eileen shook her head, a hint of exasperation creeping into her usually composed demeanor. "And how is Justin planning to manage all of this? He can''t possibly oversee everything himself?"


    It had been one of her biggest issues with the man, how much work he was doing on his own, not delegating enough to her and those around him.


    Sunil''s smirk widened. "Ah, that''s where you come in, dear Eileen. You''re to be his eyes and ears, his enforcer, his problem-solver. He trusts you to keep things running smoothly - simply a bit of an extension of the work you''re already doing."


    "Wonderful," She muttered, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "And how exactly am I supposed to keep a lid on all these... Moving parts?"


    "Simple," Sunil replied, his tone light and breezy. "You use that brilliant mind of yours. And perhaps a bit of your, shall we say, unique abilities. Justin has high expectations, but he believes you''re up to the task." He tapped a finger on the table lightly, "Plus you have a third of the rescued Widows who''d like to continue a more exciting career as a welcome back gift."


    Eileen leaned back in her chair, her gaze drifting to the ceiling as she absorbed everything. "It sounds like a logistical nightmare. But I suppose if anyone can manage it, it''s us." She murmured, already thinking on ways to expand the security team, avenues to sneak a spy or assassin in with their rivals and enemies to keep everything on track¡­


    A few names she knew the world and especially Hammer industries could do without. She could arrange an accident or two, especially with pure professionals under her wing like the Widows¡­


    "Precisely," Sunil said with a tiny mock salute. "Besides, think of it as an opportunity. We''re at the forefront of something revolutionary. And who doesn''t love a good challenge?"


    Eileen''s lips twitched into a reluctant smile. "You''re right. This is an opportunity. And I do enjoy a challenge."


    Sunil leaned forward, his expression more serious. "In all seriousness, Eileen, Justin trusts you. He believes in your abilities. And so do I. We''re all in this together, and we have the potential to achieve something incredible, even more than we already have, this is world domination in the making."


    Sunil more than anyone, Eileen knew, had seen exactly what Justin would become, his defection from HYDRA turning him into a diehard loyalist ridiculously quickly.


    If she had issues with how much Justin was working, she was fairly sure Sunil had found a way to become a vampire or something, because she doubted he had time for sleep.


    Eileen nodded, her resolve hardening. "Alright. Let''s get to work. First things first, I need a detailed briefing on all current operations, key personnel, and any potential threats."


    Sunil grinned, reaching for a tablet. "Already prepared. I''ve got everything you need right here. Let''s dive in, shall we?"


    As Sunil began to outline the current state of affairs, Eileen listened intently, her mind already working through solutions and strategies. Despite the chaos and complexity, she felt a spark of excitement. This was what she excelled at - turning chaos into order, making the impossible possible.


    "And one more thing," Sunil added, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. "You''ll need to keep an eye on Domino. She has a habit of... Improvising and tossing surprises onto the board even more than she used to, that woman just does whatever she wants."


    Eileen rolled her eyes, but there was a hint of affection in her tone. "Of course she does. I''ll make sure she stays in line."


    As they continued their briefing, she couldn''t help the feeling of relief to have work to bite into, it helped lessen the worries of what happened - the feeling of helplessness.


    She eagerly threw herself into the work.


    <hr>


    Hours later, Cairo.


    Justin Hammer paced the length of his lavish office, the Cairo skyline stretching out behind him through floor-to-ceiling windows at the very top of his building. He held his phone to his ear, his expression a mix of frustration and determination. On the other end of the line was General Thaddeus ''Thunderbolt'' Ross, the constant pain in his ass.


    He might own the President, but Ellis couldn''t just willy nilly mess around with the Joint Chiefs of Staff without opening himself up to some risks and uncertainties.


    "General Ross, let''s not dance around the issue here," Justin cut him off, growing tired of his arrogance and intransigence, his tone firm and direct. "The Green Goblin appeared in armor that can only come from Norman Osborn. This isn''t a coincidence."


    The attack on Tony Stark, although beneficial in some ways to him, also worried him, Stark could have died in that attack. It was time to clip Osborn''s wings. His team couldn''t go after him unless he was in his suit, but he could force Norman to come, and take him then.


    Except Ross wasn''t playing ball.


    Ross''s voice came through the phone, stern and unyielding. "Hammer, you know as well as I do that Oscorp was attacked. The armor was stolen. This is not Osborn''s doing."


    Justin stopped pacing, gripping the edge of his desk. "General, that''s a convenient story. But think about it - who else has the capability to produce that kind of tech? This has Osborn written all over it, a thief wouldn''t be able to maintain and continue to arm the suit."


    Ross sighed, the sound heavy with impatience. "Hammer, you''re not getting your way this time, the President can''t bail you out now, the contract is signed, it''s a done deal. The decision is out of his hands now and firmly in the jurisdiction of the military. We have a binding agreement with Oscorp for their power armor."


    Justin''s voice grew more insistent. "General Ross, you''re ignoring the obvious. This isn''t just about stolen tech. Osborn is obviously the Green Goblin. He''s directly involved, and by sticking with him, you''re putting everyone at risk."


    By now even Stark surely knew the same, a simple audio recording of Norman would be enough, let alone the fact the man would have no clear cut alibi for the attack.


    The general''s tone hardened. "This isn''t about conspiracy theories, Hammer. Oscorp''s technology is already being integrated into our systems, training operatives have already begun, through simulations. Changing suppliers at this stage would cause significant delays and setbacks. We can''t afford that."


    Justin''s attempt to keep power armors out of the game until closer to the Chitauri invasion had backfired on him massively.


    Emma Frost had a similar deal going with several European countries as well, just like Osborn here. Power armor was going to be a thing, too early. The problem was Osborn obviously couldn''t be trusted to deliver without some sort of plot behind it.


    Justin clenched his jaw, frustration boiling over. "General Ross, you''re putting blinders on. Osborn has a history of instability. You can''t seriously believe he''s just a victim here - he will misuse this power, he will have put backdoors into the system of anything he delivers."


    Ross''s voice was icy. "You think I don''t know the risks? We have protocols in place to deal with the fallout in that case, if there''s backdoors we will find them, but there won''t be... The armor was stolen - Osborn reported the theft immediately. We can''t punish a company for being a victim of industrial espionage."


    From the tone of his voice, Ross was almost outright accusing him of having a hand in it. Justin wanted to slam his phone into something. Preferably the generals face, unfortunately he was in Washington, out of his reach, unless he was willing to use Kaecillius and reveal that trump card just to smack Ross in the face.


    It was still damn tempting.


    "General, I''m telling you, Osborn is the Green Goblin," Justin reiterated, even with defeat creeping into his voice. "He''s using the military contracts to fund his operations. If you don''t act now, you''re complicit in enabling a madman."


    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Ross''s response was unwavering. "Hammer, I''ve made my decision. The military is sticking with Oscorp. Your allegations are noted but they do not change the current contract. Focus on your own projects and let us handle this."


    Justin took a deep breath, trying to keep his temper in check. "If you won''t listen, I''ll take this to the President. He needs to know what''s going on here."


    Ross''s tone turned sharp. "You think the President will intervene in military contracts? Hammer, you know better than that, I already told you, he has no say in this, the contract is final. The President has nothing to do with this - the contract with Osborn stands, and that''s final."


    The line went dead, leaving Justin staring at his phone in frustration. He tossed it onto his desk, running a hand through his hair. The situation with Osborn was far from resolved, and Ross''s stubbornness only made things more complicated.


    Justin sank into his chair, his mind racing. He needed a new strategy, a way to convince the military to sever ties with Osborn. The stakes were too high to give up now.


    Or¡­ He just needed Osborn off the board.


    If he couldn''t hit the man with his team until he was in his suit¡­


    Perhaps a simple assassination would either solve the problem permanently, or make the man jump into his suit, allowing his team to unmask him or destroy him at their leisure.


    He picked his phone up again, dialing Eileen.


    Osborn needed to stop being a problem.


    And he''d need to get ahold of Emma too, she''d been dodging his calls ever since he revealed the name Sinister.


    He was not someone you sent to voicemail!


    <hr>


    Same day, United States, Xavier''s institute.


    In the dimly lit study of the Xavier Institute, Hank McCoy, paced back and forth, his blue fur bristling with agitation. Across from him, seated in a wheelchair behind a massive mahogany desk, was Charles Xavier. The atmosphere between them was tense, filled with the weight of their recent discussions.


    They had many disagreements lately, all brought on by the same man.


    "Hank, please, sit down," Charles urged, his voice calm but tinged with weariness. "We need to talk this through rationally."


    Hank paused, his piercing yellow eyes locking onto Xavier''s. "Charles, I can''t sit down while this is happening. Justin Hammer is conducting inhumane experiments, possibly on Metahumans. We can''t just ignore this."


    His fists clenched, as he thought back on the serum Justin Hammer had suddenly produced, not tested he''d said, like Hank would believe he''d inject a subordinate he was going so far for with an untested substance.


    He was conducting illegal human trials. Hank just knew.


    Charles sighed, steepling his fingers in front of him. "I''m aware of your concerns, Hank. But our intelligence on Hammer is still inconclusive. We don''t have definitive proof that he''s experimenting on Metahumans anymore."


    Hank''s voice rose, filled with frustration. "Charles, you know as well as I do that where there''s smoke, there''s fire. Hammer''s history is littered with unethical practices - you already know he used to do it, it''s why you made a deal with him isn''t it? Turning a blind eye now is practically condoning his actions."


    Charles''s gaze softened, but his tone remained firm. "I''m not turning a blind eye. But we have to consider the larger picture. Hammer''s resources and technology have been crucial in maintaining a delicate balance. Without his contributions, we''d be facing greater threats from other fronts." He slumped slightly, sighing, "Without his PR efforts our situation would be reaching an untenable status."


    Hank''s fists clenched at his sides so hard that they creaked. "So we tolerate a monster because it''s convenient for us? What happened to our principles, Charles? What happened to fighting for what''s right?"


    Charles leaned forward, his expression earnest. "Hank, do you think I don''t struggle with this? Every day, I weigh the consequences of our alliances. But look at our alternatives. Magneto''s approach is one of aggression and domination. The Hellfire Club thrives on manipulation and power struggles. We can''t align with them - who else is there?"


    Hank''s voice was filled with accusation. "So we choose the lesser evil and hope it doesn''t consume us? How long before Hammer''s actions force us into a corner we can''t escape from?"


    Charles met Hank''s gaze steadily. "If we cut ties with Hammer, who do we turn to? Again, there''s only Magneto, who would use force to achieve his ends? Or the Hellfire Club, who would exploit us for their gain? These choices are fraught with peril - the government will not help if we break ties, they are under Hammer''s thumb."


    Hank''s shoulders slumped, the fire in his eyes dimming. "I just can''t believe this is our reality, Charles. That we have to compromise our values to survive."


    Charles''s expression softened with understanding. "Neither can I, Hank. But survival often demands difficult choices. We must be vigilant, and we must be prepared to act if Hammer crosses the line even further. For now, we work within the constraints we have."


    Hank sank into a chair, his anger giving way to a deep, weary resignation. "And if Hammer does cross that line? What then, Charles? How far are we willing to go before we say enough?"


    How many Metahumans had died already because they moved the line to save themselves?


    Charles reached out, placing a reassuring hand on Hank''s arm. "We stay true to our mission, Hank. To protect our kind and to foster peace. And we remain vigilant, ready to act when necessary. I promise you, we will not let injustice go unanswered."


    Hank nodded slowly, the tension easing but not disappearing entirely. "Alright, Charles. But know this - I will continue to investigate Hammer. And if I find proof of his crimes, we must act decisively."


    Charles nodded, his expression one of solemn agreement. "Agreed, my friend. We will not stand by while innocents suffer. But we must be certain, and we must be prepared for the consequences of our actions."


    Hank darkly wondered if Charles even realized how he sounded. He''d already signed away how many innocent lives?


    No¡­ If Hank got proof, he''d let Charles know, but he wouldn''t just leave it at that.


    Charles was obviously compromised.


    He was allowing too much to achieve his dream.


    Hank was a doctor. He couldn''t do the same. His resolve firmed.


    Justin Hammer needed to be stopped.


    ¡­


    Charles Xavier sighed heavily as Hank left. He was closing in on a crossroad. Equality was within reaching distance - but it might require heavy sacrifices.


    He hated himself for having decided it was necessary. The world was changing too quick, without Justin Hammer they would take the brunt of the hatred and chaos.


    Hank¡­ Charles had broken one of his own rules, had plunged into his mind, seen what he''d decided.


    He''d have to choose.


    Hammer, or Hank, one of his own.


    Night fell, casting the office in shadows as she sat and brooded, unable to make a decision.


    <hr>


    The next morning,


    The streets of New York were bustling with life, the typical cacophony of city sounds filling the air - honking cars, the chatter of pedestrians, and the distant wail of sirens. Justin, Domino, and Phantazia were traveling in a sleek, black armored SUV, flanked by a convoy of security vehicles. The security team, outfitted with the latest tech and enhancements, was ever-vigilant.


    With Eileen back on the job, they had begun being whipped into shape without mercy, despite their good work so far, Eileen had declared them fat and lazy, falling back on inferior military experience in her absence instead of her routines.


    Normally he could just portal anywhere now, but this was a meeting with several of New York''s congressmen and the Governor, so it was best to arrive normally, or the press would begin to wonder how he''d arrived without their notice.


    "Feels good to be back in the Big Apple," Justin remarked casually, leaning back in his seat, glancing at Domino and Phantazia.


    There had been a lot of Cairo lately, as he still had no proper New York office. Although the build would start this year.


    Domino smirked, her eyes scanning the streets lazily. "Just another day in paradise."


    Phantazia, cool and composed, nodded. "Let''s hope it stays that way." She glared out the window at one of the security team SUVs, "They''ve grown lax lately, obviously Domino did not do a good job in filling in¡­" Her eyes slid to Domino judgingly.


    Domino held her hands up, an innocent expression on her face, "Hey, I follow the boss around 24/7, I didn''t have time to constantly bully the security team."


    Phantazia''s look was dry, "The security teams also follow him 24/7¡­" She pointed out.


    As they turned a corner, the peaceful routine was abruptly shattered. Without warning, a hail of bullets rained down on the convoy from multiple directions. The initial shock was deafening, the sharp staccato of automatic gunfire echoing off the buildings. Windows shattered even through their bulletproofing, and the SUVs swerved, trying to evade the onslaught.


    "Ambush! Get down!" Domino shouted, her voice cutting through the chaos as she instinctively pushed Justin to the floor of the vehicle.


    He might regenerate almost any damage, but it didn''t mean it was a good idea to get shot.


    Who dares!? Justin thought in full on rage as he clenched a fist, almost pushing Domino away to run out there and give them a piece of his mind - but then his mind reasserted itself, that would be stupid. He had his people, they''d deal with it.


    Justin''s security team, equipped with Extremis, sprang into action. Even as some were hit by heavy munitions, their bodies began to regenerate, wounds closing almost as quickly as they were made. His security forces fought back with precision, their weapons spitting fire and noise into the cacophony of the ambush.


    The calm street turned into a warzone within seconds. Dead civilians everywhere as the ambushers gave no thought to collateral damage.


    Phantazia, her eyes glowing with power, stepped out of the vehicle and raised her hands. Waves of energy surged from her, unseen by anyone but herself, targeting their attackers. The hidden assailants, their identities obscured by tactical gear and masks, convulsed as their weapons sparked and malfunctioned, dropping from their grasp and their nerve endings lit on fire, leaving their fingers unable to even hold onto the malfunctioning weapons.


    Domino, crouched low behind one of the SUV doors, expertly wielded her twin pistols. Each shot rang out with a sharp crack, echoing in the narrow streets. Her uncanny aim, bolstered by her luck powers, took down one enemy after another with lethal efficiency. She moved with a fluid grace, keeping Justin shielded while maintaining a relentless assault on their attackers.


    Justin, staying low, felt the adrenaline coursing through his veins. The chaos around him was a blur of noise and movement. Gunfire rattled his ears, and the air was thick with the acrid smell of gunpowder and smoke.


    "Who the hell are these guys?" he shouted over the din, peering out at the masked figures.


    "No idea, but they''re well-equipped!" Domino shouted back, her voice steady despite the chaos. She laughed, uncaring about the death around them, their security team all regenerating their wounds, "They had no idea what kind of fight they picked!" She crowed, firing and killing a man in a 5th story window, the man falling out just as another stuck his head out of a 2nd floor window to fire, his neck breaking as 200 pounds of muscle fell on it from above.


    Phantazia continued her assault, manipulating the electromagnetic fields to disable more weapons and to disrupt the electronics their attackers relied on. Sparks flew, and the enemy forces stumbled, their tactical advantages nullified.


    The security team, despite being outnumbered, fought with a fierce determination. The Extremis in their veins made them nearly unstoppable, shrugging off wounds that would have incapacitated normal soldiers. The sound of their return fire was a constant barrage, a symphony of defiance against the ambush.


    One of the SUVs exploded, the shockwave shaking the ground and sending debris flying. Justin''s vehicle was rocked, but the armored plating held. "Find that bastard!" Domino barked, her eyes scanning for the next target.


    The two members of the security team that had used the SUV as cover, appeared from within the flames, their skin regrowing as they retreated towards their teams, grabbing new weapons from their comrades back ups and returning immediately to the fight, barely dressed as their uniforms didn''t survive the fire as well as they had.


    A figure appeared on the roof above them, a rocket launcher poised to fire. Domino''s keen eyes caught the movement, and she squeezed off a shot. The bullet struck true, and the rocket launcher fell from the figure''s hands, detonating harmlessly in mid-air. Another bullet took the man out right after.


    Phantazia, sensing a shift, concentrated her power on a group of attackers trying to flank them. Their equipment short-circuited, and they dropped to the ground, writhing as she also went after their nerves, agony surged through their bodies as she twisted.


    Justin''s mind whirled as he tried to process the chaos. He peeked out from behind Domino, seeing the tide of battle beginning to turn in their favor. "We need to get out of here, now!" The likelihood that something more is coming and these guys were just meant to pin us in, is high.


    It''s what he would do, at minimum.


    "Working on it!" Domino replied, her tone unwavering. She motioned to the remaining security team. "Form up! We''re moving out!"


    The security team, still regenerating from their injuries, regrouped around the SUV. With Phantazia covering their retreat and Domino providing suppressive fire, they began to push back against the attackers, clearing a path.


    As the convoy roared to life and sped away from the ambush site, the sounds of battle gradually faded. The immediate threat had been neutralized, but the questions lingered.


    The convoy sped through the streets of New York, leaving behind the chaos and destruction of the ambush, and several dozen dead ambushers.


    "Did we take any survivors?" Justin asked, eyes hard.


    Phantazia smiled grimly, "We have two in one of the other SUVs, she said, a hand to her ear.


    Domino laughed, a playful smirk on her face, "Oh, those boys are reaaally going to wish they didn''t survive the ambush¡­"


    "The teams?" Justin asked shortly, still reigning in his anger, at whoever dared to do this.


    "No casualties, one team is traveling through New York on foot, since they lost their SUV, they''ll dispose of their gear and scatter, and should be back by nightfall." Phantazia reported clippedly.


    "Give everyone a bonus." Justin ordered, as he settled back in his seat, still tense, in case there was a follow up to that ambush. "Make sure they know they have my appreciation for their hard work today."


    Without Extremis, his team would have been wrecked today. There was only so much any soldier could do against fire from both sides, and above, with heavy munitions.


    "Find out who did this." He ordered, no more playing with them. Whoever ordered this hit¡­


    I''m going to destroy them!


    <hr>


    Hours later, New York.


    In the brightly lit war room of one of Justin''s fortified black sites, the atmosphere was electric with tension and anticipation. Justin sat at the head of a large, round table, surrounded by his key operatives, Phantazia, Domino, and Yelena - with Sunil there via video conference. The room''s walls were lined with screens displaying live feeds, schematics, and data on Roxxon Corporation''s headquarters in New York, and their subsidiaries all around the state.


    Justin leaned forward, his eyes sharp with determination. "Alright, we''ve confirmed that the attackers were hired by Roxxon. It''s time we send a message they won''t forget." Why Agger would do this, who knows¡­? They''ve been gobbling up all the other oil companies, they''ve actually been growing, why this attack?


    The two surviving peons they''d grabbed had a different story of course, even under torture they''d constantly claimed Norman Osborn was behind this. Something which Justin might have fallen for, if the loony man wasn''t out flying around in a Goblin suit.


    No¡­ If Norman wanted him dead, he''d come do it himself.


    Luckily, Kaecillius had means to make people talk even more effectively than pain, and the real mind behind the attack was revealed, one of the mercenaries recognising the middle man paying them as one of Roxxon''s pets.


    He''d let the attacks on him go, as he grew stronger and stronger he''d seen no need in overly going after those weaklings that had attacked him as a knee jerk reaction - especially once they''d had the meeting in Bern under the aegis of the Mandarin. Even Osborn hadn''t technically broken their agreement as he''d attacked no other member, as Stark hadn''t been one of them.


    Agger, the CEO of Roxxon, had been there though¡­ What was he thinking?


    Yelena, ever the fierce combatant, slammed her fist on the table. "We hit them hard. Full-scale assault. We take down their headquarters, show them that no one messes with us and get away with it." She was almost snarling, her face was that fierce, she''d been almost apocalyptic once finding out Justin had been attacked.


    Eileen, her demeanor cool and calculated, shook her head. "A full-scale assault would be reckless. We need to be precise. A surgical strike targeting their key infrastructure will cripple them without unnecessary collateral damage. We need to be smart about this." She paused, cocking her head, "The CEO needs to have an accident however¡­"


    Domino, lounging back in her chair with a sly grin, watched the exchange with amusement. As far as she was concerned, the problem was practically over now that they''d survived the attack with ease, "Why not both? A little bit of chaos mixed with precision. Keeps things interesting." She suggested, egging them both on.


    Justin raised an eyebrow at Domino''s comment but turned his attention back to Yelena and Eileen. "Yelena, your approach has its merits. We show strength which I like, but we can''t afford to attract too much heat - I want them punished, hard, but we can''t afford to have it tied to us. Eileen, what do you propose exactly?"


    Eileen brought up a schematic of Roxxon''s headquarters on the central screen. "We infiltrate their systems first. Use the Widows for what they do best, and disable their security, making them blind and deaf. Then, we send in a small, highly trained team to take out their key operations - servers, power grids, and communication hubs. It''s clean, efficient, and leaves them scrambling."


    Justin watched the schematic, thinking it over. It was good, but wasn''t nearly harsh enough. He wanted Roxxon to suffer, for daring to go after him.


    Sunil spoke up, his tone contemplative, "If we strike soon, everyone will know it was retaliation, without having evidence it was us. It will force other actors to step more carefully." He said nothing more for a moment, before continuing, "The only thing I would have to say about the plan is that it might be too understated for your purpose, sir."


    Yelena crossed her arms, frowning. "I agree with Sunil, it''s too understated. And besides, what if they fight back? We need to show them the price of crossing us. Fear is a powerful deterrent." She argued, "Everyone must know that they''re being punished."


    Domino interjected, her voice teasing. "Yelena wants a spectacle, Eileen wants precision. Why not combine both? We go in, make a mess where it hurts them the most, but with a plan. Hit their nerve centers, but also make sure it''s loud enough that they remember it - take out the board and CEO in a spectacle, after ruining their entire headquarters from the inside."


    Justin leaned back, considering the options. "We need to make a statement, but we also need to be strategic. Yelena, we''ll incorporate your idea of a strong show of force, but with Eileen''s surgical approach. Yelena, you''ll lead the ground team, ensuring we strike fast and hard - I''ll lend you Frank and Brock, without their suits they''re still expert operatives. Eileen, you''ll handle the cyber aspect, leading the Widows, disabling their internal security and server infrastructure - steal every bit of data they have." His eyes were hard as he watched them both, "Full black ops scenario, you can not be identified, kill anything that moves."


    Yelena nodded, a fierce smile spreading across her face. "I can work with that. As long as they know we mean business and never dare to cross us again."


    Eileen, ever composed, gave a curt nod. "Agreed. I''ll ensure their systems are down when we strike. They won''t see us coming."


    Domino clapped her hands, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Sounds like a party. Too bad I have to guard the boss. You have to make sure to leave a lasting impression for me, eh?"


    Justin crossed his arms, determined to see this through, but they had something else they''d have to do first. "Tentatively plan it for within the week, depending on when we can confirm Agger is in the building. I have a phone call to make first."


    He stepped away, as the women of his inner circle, and Sunil, coordinated.


    The room buzzed with activity as each of them set to their tasks, the air thick with anticipation. Justin watched them, a sense of satisfaction settling over him. Roxxon had made a grave mistake, and they were about to pay the price.


    He himself had something else to deal with. He stepped into a corner, and dialed a number he''d never used after the meeting in Bern.


    To his utmost annoyance, it took ten minutes to connect the call, a cool distinctly Asian accent answering, "Hammer, you wish to ensure there are no hard feelings, correct?" The Mandarin said immediately, wasting no time on pleasantries.


    He already knew¡­ Justin thought, mind whirling on if that was because he''d given Agger the idea or supported the attempt quietly, or if his spies were just that good that he immediately knew it was Roxxon.


    Either way he wouldn''t allow the Mandarin to act so superior, "I have not called to ask permission." He bit out, voice sharp, "I am simply due to common courtesy - warning you in case you have assets in danger of being caught in the crossfire."


    As much as it rankled him, he didn''t want to accidentally kill off one of the Mandarin''s men if he had his fingers in Roxxon. Which he now suspected even more with how quickly he ascertained what he was calling for. He believed he''d win a war against the man, immortal or not, but it would cost him everything, setting him back in an unacceptable manner at this moment.


    "I have no assets worth keeping in Roxxon." The Mandarin said tonelessly. "They themselves have broken our agreement, punish them how you see fit."


    "... I''ll be in touch." Justin said, waiting for an acknowledgement, not wanting to come off as too rude by hanging up, but instead the Mandarin just hung up on him.


    He twitched, crushing his phone in his hand. On a good note, his retaliation on Roxxon wouldn''t cost him anything with their little evil circle.


    He still had no idea what the Mandarin was after however. Despite professing interest in Extremis he''d still not tried to get it, even in this call he''d made no effort for it.


    He just had no idea what made the man tick, and that made him wary.


    He put it out of his mind for now, going back to his team, they had a punishment to eke out. Or a slaughter, same difference.


    As they worked through the night, finalizing details and preparing for the assault, the resolve to retaliate against Roxxon grew stronger. By the end of the week, they would be ready to strike, and Roxxon would learn that crossing Justin Hammer and his team came with dire consequences.


    <hr>


    The next day, New York, Hammer industries temporary offices.


    Justin sat behind his imposing desk, his fingers steepled as he listened to Eileen, who stood with an air of controlled frustration. Domino lounged in a chair nearby, her expression one of casual interest.


    She''d had some time to go through recent operations and changes, and had requested a meeting to go through some of them. He had the time, some of his self appointed minor tasks having begun to be delegated to his ''hands''.


    Yelena was busy ensuring the Widows that would be staying around settled comfortably, while directing a few assets for the hunt for those still loose. She''d been annoyed to find that her mother figure had not been in the Red Room, and was determined to hunt her down.


    So it was just the three of them, like old times.


    "Justin," Eileen began, her voice holding a hint of irritation, "Why do we have one of our security teams under my control following some random scientists in New Mexico? It seems like a waste of resources." She looked at the expense report she was holding, "For the last two months!"


    Justin leaned back in his chair, a slight smile playing on his lips. "Eileen, trust me, it''s not a waste. I have a good hunch about New Mexico. Jane Foster''s research is onto something big." Well that, and I want feet on the ground for when Thor arrives so I can know immediately.


    Eileen arched an eyebrow, skepticism evident in her eyes. "Jane Foster? I''ve read your notes on recruitment targets, she''s an astrophysicist or something, right? What could she possibly be working on that warrants our attention to this extent?"


    Justin''s smile widened. "She''s been studying astronomical anomalies, something to do with Einstein-Rosen bridges - wormholes in other words. I have a feeling her work is going to lead to something groundbreaking. Something that could give us an edge."


    Well, he wasn''t so sure she''d be a worthy recruitment, but it was as good an excuse as any to why they were keeping an eye on her. He was just glad all the butterflies elsewhere had not stopped their presence in New Mexico.


    Domino chimed in, her tone light and teasing. "Wormholes, huh? Sounds like you''re betting on a sci-fi fantasy, Justin." She clicked her tongue, "No wonder you''re always picking sci-fi for movie nights nowadays, you nerd!"


    Eileen just rolled her eyes, fairly well used to ignoring Domino.


    Justin shrugged, unfazed as well. "Sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs come from the most unexpected places. I''m confident this will pay off." Just not in actual wormholes¡­


    Eileen crossed her arms, still unconvinced. "And what about the team in South America? Why are we wasting resources there?" She looked at the report, eye twitching, "Six different countries so far¡­"


    Justin waved a dismissive hand. "Just keeping an eye on Banner."


    He''d come to realize he wouldn''t get the Abomination or Sterns, not an enhanced Sterns anyway, the butterflies had most definitely destroyed the Hulk movie scenario. Sterns without the enhancements were not worth any effort, Cho and Hansen already had things handled there, add in Conners as well and Sterns was just superfluous.


    The Hulk was always worth keeping an eye on however. Just in case. Now that everything had changed, he certainly didn''t want anyone to gain control of him for example - and point him at Hammer industries.


    The man had already tried to sneak into one of the Hammer clinics in South America to steal a supply of Panacea to study.


    Eileen''s eyes narrowed. "Bruce Banner? The Hulk? What exactly are you hoping to achieve by monitoring him?" She grimaced, "Not to recruit him¡­ Right?"


    Justin leaned forward, his expression more serious. "Banner is a wild card. If he ever loses control, we need to know about it before anyone else does."


    Domino let out a low whistle. "So, you''re playing both sides. Watching Banner for his potential and keeping tabs in case he goes green and mean."


    Justin nodded. "Exactly. We need to stay ahead of the curve. Both Foster''s research and Banner''s condition could have significant implications for us. It''s about being proactive, not reactive."


    Eileen sighed, her frustration giving way to reluctant understanding. "Alright, Justin. I see your point, but we need to be careful. Spreading our resources too thin could backfire." She warned, "If more people are coming after you, we need our security teams in high risk areas, protecting your assets, and you, not traversing the Amazon jungle."


    Justin stood up, walking around the desk to place a reassuring hand on Eileen''s shoulder. "I appreciate your concern, Eileen. But I have a good feeling about these moves. Trust me on this."


    He couldn''t exactly say he had metaknowledge about it all.


    Domino, ever the pragmatist, stretched and stood up. "Well, as long as there''s a plan. Just keep me in the loop if you need some extra muscle."


    Justin chuckled. "Always, Domino. Now, let''s get back to work. We have a lot to do and not much time to do it."


    "Actually¡­ I heard from Sunil you can actually fight now, with the skill of a drunken monkey, but still¡­ A spar, sir?" Eileen asked, her eyes intense.


    Justin hummed in thought, the paperwork beckoned, but it didn''t sound nearly as exciting as working up a sweat.


    "I''ll join in, I''ll even wear those special tights you like." Domino teased coyly.


    "Spar it is." He decided.


    Solely to help Eileen warm back up after so long of course.


    <hr>


    August 14th, Malibu, California.


    Tony Stark''s Malibu mansion gleamed under the California sun, a marvel of modern architecture perched atop a cliff with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. The house''s automated systems hummed quietly, overseen by JARVIS, Tony''s ever-present buddy and employee of the year. Tony stood on the terrace, a glass of scotch in hand, looking out at the waves crashing against the rocks below. Beside him, Pepper was busy reviewing some documents, her sharp eyes flicking up occasionally to glance at Tony.


    "Relax, Tony. It''s just a meeting," Pepper said, sensing his restlessness.


    Tony took a sip of his drink, a wry smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, but it''s not just any meeting. It''s Justin Hammer, he''s annoying enough when I don''t need a favor¡­"


    Pepper raised an eyebrow. "You think there''s going to be trouble?"


    Tony shrugged. "With him? Trouble''s practically a given. But hey, it''s also an opportunity to settle some things."


    Just then, the sound of an approaching helicopter broke the tranquility of the scene. Tony and Pepper turned to see a sleek black chopper descending onto the helipad nearby. As the rotors slowed and the door opened, Justin Hammer emerged, dressed in a sharp suit, his usual confident swagger in place. Behind him, Ivan Vanko followed, his expression a mix of anger and disdain. The Russian inventor was a stark contrast to Hammer, with his muscular frame and tattoos visible beneath his shirt sleeves.


    Tony grimaced, he''d gotten a heads up from Hammer that he''d be bringing the other man, and what Jarvis had found didn''t exactly paint a great picture.


    "Tony Stark!" Justin called out, spreading his arms wide in greeting as he approached. "Thanks for the invite. Beautiful place you''ve got here."


    Tony still thought Hammer was just way too smarmy, and although he''d quickly found that the Goblin was actually Norman Osborn, not one of Hammer''s - and wasn''t that a trip? Why had the crazy goblin blown up his own company? - yet he still believed Hammer had been the one behind the attack on this very mansion.


    And now he''d invited him. He was a bit surprised the other man actually showed up to be honest. Tony wouldn''t have if it was reversed.


    Tony handed his glass to Pepper and walked forward to meet his guests. "Justin¡­ Ivan, welcome to my humble abode. Let''s get this over with."


    Hammer''s smile widened as he extended a hand. "Straight to business? I don''t know what''s changed, but I like it, Tony."


    Tony shook his hand, then turned to Vanko, hiding a grimaced behind a cocky grin, "Ivan. How''s life treating you?"


    Vanko''s eyes narrowed, lips curled into a snarl, "Better than you, Stark, I create the arc reactor with my father, da, while you booze and whore like useless man."


    Tony chuckled. "Fair enough. Shall we?" He gestured towards the living room, where they could sit and talk more comfortably. He didn''t take offense to Vanko really, because from what Jarvis had dug up, he had a grudge brought on by his dear old dad in the first place. And If there was anything Tony could agree on, it was that Howard Stark was an asshole.


    If Vanko hated Howard Stark, he couldn''t be all that bad, Tony thought.


    The group moved inside, the sleek modern design of the house contrasting sharply with the tension in the air. They settled around a low table, Pepper remaining standing behind Tony, her presence both supportive and watchful. Her eyes settled on Justin Hammer with distaste.


    Tony knew from her frequent words on the subject, that she disliked the man more than he himself did at this point. Funny in a way, as she had used to be the moderating voice when it came to Justin Hammer.


    "Scotch?" Tony offered, lifting a decanter.


    Hammer nodded, replying flippantly. "Sure, why not?"


    Tony poured a glass and handed it to Hammer, then turned to Vanko, who shook his head. "No pussy drink for me." He grumbled, crossing his arms.


    "Suit yourself," Tony said, pouring a glass for himself. He sat down, taking a sip before speaking again. "So, what''s this about, bringing big angry and russian when I invite you so nicely for a pow wow?"


    Justin took a sip of his drink, savoring the taste. "Well¡­Tony, we''ve got quite a bit to discuss, I agree, But first, Ivan has something he wants to say, and I felt it was best to get this all over with, within a private setting."


    Tony shook his head, not overly pleased with having to do this, he could have gone his entire life without having to face more of his father''s bullshit coming back to bite him. "Alright, lay it on me." He huffed, gesturing at Vanko.


    Vanko leaned forward, his eyes locked on Tony. "My father, Anton Vanko, he do work with your father, Howard Stark. They supposed to be partners, da. Stark betray him! had him deported, stole his invention."


    Tony met Vanko''s gaze steadily. "I''ve heard this story before, Ivan. And I''ll be the first to admit, my old man was far from perfect. But you''re barking up the wrong tree if you think I''m going to take the fall for his sins." He shrugged lightly, "Whether all that''s true or not, you''ve won haven''t you? You''ve got the arc reactor, it''s not worth it for me to compete, so take it and be happy."


    Vanko''s fists clenched, but he managed to keep his voice level, even as he had a growling undertone. "Father create first viable arc reactor technology. He was genius. But your family took everything from us. Everything."


    Tony glanced at Justin, who was watching with an amused smirk on his face, asshole. Really, how was any of this anything to do with him? Fucking Howard Stark.


    Also, he was fairly certain Anton Vanko was not the creator of the technology, although from all evidence he had worked with his dear old dad on the project. It was impossible to find records to explain if his dad had actually had a hand in getting the elder Vanko deported, although Tony wouldn''t be surprised if he had.


    Tony sighed, leaning back in his chair. "Look, Ivan, I don''t know all the details of what happened between our fathers. But I can tell you this - I''m not my father. And as far as the arc reactor goes - you beat me to it, take that as remuneration, because given a few months more I would have perfected it first."


    Vanko''s eyes flashed with anger. "You stand on the shoulders of giants and pretend to be one yourself." He spat.


    Tony''s smile was sharp. "Maybe. But at least I acknowledge the giants. Now, are we going to keep trading barbs, or are we going to talk about the real issues?"


    Justin interjected, trying to steer the conversation back on track. "Alright, alright, let''s cool it down." He gave Vanko a sharp look, the man scoffing, but settling down. "We''re here to discuss some serious business, after all. Tony, you mentioned renegotiating our deal with Wakanda. Why the sudden change?"


    The way the bastard was smirking, he knew damn well the sudden change. Even if he hadn''t been behind the Green Goblin, he sure as hell was going to take advantage. Not that Tony could overly blame him, he''d do the same thing probably.


    Pepper and Obi definitely would, both of them were very anti-Hammer lately, which rubbed Tony the wrong way - because he was supposed to be that guy, not being forced into being the reasonable one.


    What''s the world come to when Tony Stark had to be reasonable? He wondered.


    Tony took a long sip of his scotch, before setting his glass down, his expression turning serious. "It''s simple, I''ve lost time and resources due to the Green Goblin, and I won''t be able to allocate the same amount of drones for our project as I had promised, so I''ll need you to take over the slack for six months."


    Justin looked amused, crossing one leg over the other as he leaned back, "Hoh? Anthony Stark needs my help?" He said slowly, a growing smirk on his face.


    Tony rolled his eyes, taking another sip of his drink, the alcohol helping him deal with this bullshit. "Don''t get too much of a stiffy, Justin. It''s a temporary thing, I''m just being responsible, ensuring our contract is still carried out. I''m being nice here."


    Justin frowned, cocking his head. "Responsible? Since when did Stark Industries get a conscience?" He mocked lightly.


    Tony''s eyes narrowed. "It''s not about a conscience, Justin. It''s about smart business. If we fail to do the job, we won''t secure a steady supply of vibranium. And without proper drones we could cause political or environmental backlash. Adjusting our agreement benefits all of us."


    Justin considered this for a moment, then nodded slowly. "Alright, I can see the logic in that. But what''s your angle with the Green Goblin? Why mention him in your message?"


    Tony leaned forward, his voice dropping to a serious tone. "Because it''s a threat we can''t ignore. Osborn''s gone off the deep end, and he''s targeting me, and you know he''ll target you, you were in that meeting too, and I know you know it''s Osborn behind the mask. We need to coordinate our efforts to deal with him, because if you fuck this up, Ross will be up both our asses."


    Hammer wasn''t his first choice as someone to work with, but they were already starting in Wakanda, and he might as well continue on with it. Unfortunately dressing up in his suit and flying over to punch Osborn in the face would have too many consequences for him to be able to pull it off.


    Vanko snorted, looking delighted. "You think working under Hammer is the answer?" He was practically chortling after. Justin gave his subordinate a warning look, that Vanko completely ignored.


    Tony shrugged. "In this case, yes, although it''s with, not under." He stressed, giving Vanko an unimpressed look, "We all have something to lose if Osborn''s allowed to run rampant. He''s a loose cannon with too much power and not enough sense, and with Ross up his ass, it will not end well."


    Justin nodded, taking another sip of his own scotch. "I agree. Osborn''s a problem, and he needs to be dealt with. But let''s not forget, Tony, this isn''t just about Osborn. It''s about our interests. We need to protect what''s ours."


    Tony understood him immediately, they couldn''t lose out on the Vibranium, no matter what.


    Tony''s eyes met Justin''s, a silent understanding passing between them. "Agreed. But we do it smart. No reckless moves." God dammit, what''s the world come to when I end up working with this peacock?


    Justin smirked, practically preening. "Smart. I can do smart." He said smarmily.


    Tony wanted to throw what was left of his drink in his face. But he held back, he was supposed to be¡­ Nice, now.


    Pepper, who had been silently observing, stepped forward. "And what about the long-term implications? How do we ensure this alliance doesn''t come back to bite us?" She asked, her eyes fixed on Justin, her tone biting.


    Justin smiled at Pepper, his tone smooth. "Ms. Potts, we''re all businessmen here. We understand the importance of a stable partnership. Once Osborn is dealt with, we renegotiate terms as needed. Flexibility is key."


    She looked unimpressed, likely interpreting it as Tony did, Justin looking to further get a point in any renegotiation. Well, Tony had tons of things brewing right now, Justin would face some surprises if he thought he could walk all over him.


    Tony glanced at Pepper, who gave a small reluctant accepting nod. "Alright. I guess we''re allies. For now."


    Vanko spat on the carpet, "This foolish, is bad idea, can''t trust a Stark." He said darkly.


    Tony sighed, "Some civility here please, do you know how expensive it is to dry clean a carpet?"


    "Do you?" Pepper immediately fired, even as she glared at Justin and Vanko.


    "... 50 grand?"


    Everyone in the room just stared at him.


    "Lower? Higher?"


    "I''m not paid enough for this¡­" Pepper muttered.


    <hr>

 Thorsday

    <hr>


    Roxxon''s New York headquarters loomed large against the night sky, a towering fortress of glass and steel. Two teams of Black Widows, specialists in espionage and sabotage, prepared to infiltrate the building.


    The board was holding a late meeting with all hands on deck, no doubt going over the failed attack, so they were ready to strike, looking for maximum pain dealt to their enemy.


    The Black Widows were old hands at this kind of thing, and were excited to do it for a ''good cause'' this time.


    Eileen''s team was the first to move. Composed of seasoned Widows, they approached the building under the cover of darkness. They navigated through the shadows, their black tactical gear blending seamlessly with the night. The service tunnel entrance was their target - a less conspicuous entry point often overlooked by complacent security personnel.


    In this case it hadn''t been, but a Widow had already been inserted into the building during daytime hours, specifically to make her way down to ensure their entrance would be cut off from the rest of the security system for the time being.


    It would be investigated, but by then they''d already be in, and could move forward with taking over the entire security system.


    The tunnel led them into the underground parking garage. Guards patrolled lazily, unaware of the silent predators closing in on them - having no idea the cameras and motion sensors on the doors were temporarily disabled. In a swift, coordinated strike, Eileen''s team neutralized the guards, leaving no room for alarm or resistance. Silencers whispered, and bodies dropped with barely a sound. Within moments, the entrance was secure.


    Eileen divided her team into two groups. One, led by her, would handle physical security, while the other focused on cyber operations. On her signal, the Widow already inserted in the building initiated a cascading power failure, not knocking the system out, just temporarily going to emergency power through the areas the Widows were rushing through, ensuring security wouldn''t see them until it was too late.


    By not completely knocking the power out, they gave themselves precious minutes where security would wonder, checking out the power failure instead of going into immediate lockdown and calling for help.


    Eileen''s group ascended the maintenance stairwells, avoiding the more trafficked areas, their knowledge of the building absolute, they made their way to the security room at a controlled run. As they approached the security control room, they knew they''d arrived in time, as the building hadn''t gone into lockdown.


    They had ways around that too, if it happened, but it was good to have things run smoothly. Roxxon had a lot of military level personnel, but they were the frontline forces, the background personnel - the fat lazy ones sitting in security offices - were not nearly as proactive and experienced, and they''d counted on that after getting profiles on the staff.


    The control room was the building''s nerve center, bustling with guards and technicians monitoring the myriad security feeds. Eileen and her team burst in with precision, subduing the occupants before they could react - several of them down before they even realized anything was happening. Hand-to-hand combat ensued with the few who remained, a blur of expertly executed moves that left the room littered with unconscious bodies. With the guards and technicians incapacitated, Eileen''s team secured the room, taking control of the building''s physical security systems.


    These guys were basically rent-a-cops not hardened operatives, so they didn''t go straight for the jugular. They''d already be leaving a trail of bodies in the end, no need for the no name grunts to suffer needlessly.


    Roxxon''s biggest threat wasn''t their human resources anyway, the building was littered with drones. Not anything near the capabilities Hammer Industries had, but in tight hallways, a murderbot firing away indiscriminately would have been a problem - hence why they focused on the weaker human element, confusing and distracting them until they got far enough in the building to take them.


    Eileen felt smug, as she compared their ineffectual and weak response to the system she''d set up for all of Hammer Industries buildings. In her system, any kind of power failure, camera outage, or similar - would lead to an immediate full response until proven otherwise.


    It''s also why each of Hammer Industries security guards had health monitors attached, so they''d get a warning the second one of them died, got knocked unconscious, or had an abnormal increase in heart rate.


    Compared to that, Roxxon was basically the Walmart of evil corporations. Drones were no use if they''d never get a chance to be activated.


    Meanwhile, the cyber team infiltrated the IT department, Eileen''s team helpfully opening all locked doors on the way, while locking everyone else in the building in. Among them was a Black Widow named Zara, a African Widow and a tech prodigy with a knack for breaking through the most sophisticated firewalls - one of Dreykov''s favorites, and one of the younger Widows of the new generation. They connected their devices to the mainframes, initiating a silent takeover. Zara''s fingers flew across the keyboard, rewriting code, and destroying surveillance feeds. The building''s cameras now displayed looped footage for the time they were in the building, ensuring any investigation afterwards would find nothing amiss.


    Oh, they''d realize it was looped footage, but Zara was an expert. They wouldn''t be able to dig out even a simple glimpse of anything, not that there was much to see thanks to the cascading power failure that had so stumped the security team for the brief time they''d had to investigate.


    As the cyber team worked, Eileen coordinated with them to execute the next phase - A partial building lockdown. She glanced at her watch, timing their actions with military precision. When the moment arrived, the building was plunged into lockdown, locking important areas and personnel in. Meanwhile the drones that would come screeching to eradicate invaders were kept offline, by Zara, as she expertly manipulated the lockdown to lock the different security teams and hit teams inside their barracks.


    Simultaneously, the team activated communication jammers, severing all external contact. Roxxon''s headquarters was now an isolated fortress, its defenses crippled, and no one outside of it had any idea.


    As the building''s systems were completely subsumed, Yelena''s team, stationed in an adjacent building, sprang into action. Yelena led this second wave and alongside her were Frank, and Brock, with several Widows along for the ride. Their mission was to dismantle key parts of Roxxon''s infrastructure and destroy both their military assets and extract or destroy their scientific assets.


    Using a window that had not had shutters descend over it in the lockdown, perfectly placed for them to zipline in, Yelena''s team entered the building. They moved swiftly, their path cleared by the first team''s efforts. Locked doors opened for them as they approached, and they mowed down opposition ruthlessly.


    Their first target, the barracks, to remove any capabilities of Roxxon to use their own forces to strike back after this.


    Across the state the other facilities Roxxon had were also being hit, bombed in a way that would point fingers towards the Green Goblin, massive collateral damage and loss of Roxxon''s security forces the goal.


    For now, Roxxon''s assets abroad and across the rest of America were not being hit. This was a lesson, not complete annihilation.


    For now.


    Frank and Brock took point once they got to the barracks, their enhanced strength and combat skills ensuring swift progress. The lockdown eased as they approached, Yelena tossing the men several explosives casually, the men arming them just as casually before tossing them inside the barracks.


    The explosion wasn''t quite enough to shake the entire building, but it was enough to utterly destroy the room filled with Roxxon''s best, for whatever that was worth. As soon as the debris stopped flying around, the team moved in and ensured any survivors did not in fact survive.


    Meanwhile, Zara delved deeper accessing the systems, downloading terabytes of sensitive information. The data included records of illicit activities, financial transactions, and internal communications - evidence that could dismantle Roxxon''s empire.


    There were more than one way to skin a cat after all¡­


    Eileen had joined her at this point and oversaw the operation with a sharp eye. Her team worked efficiently, extracting data while preparing the servers for destruction. The extracted information was encrypted and transferred to secure drives, ensuring it could not be easily traced back to them. The servers, once a treasure trove of Roxxon''s secrets, were now rigged to become a pile of slag.


    Meanwhile, Yelena''s team moved through the building, eradicating the security forces, the real security forces, those kept off the books of the company, but still made their home inside Roxxon''s headquarters.


    The lockdown kept any other employees locked in and unaware of the happenings, letting them through only to their targets. Eventually the task was done, and Frank and Brock took the team and escorted the scientists that didn''t choose death, off the premises.


    With their tasks completed, both team leads converged on the building''s top floor. The boardroom, the whole reason the building was fully staffed with security tonight - was their final destination - Roxxon''s board ironically meeting to figure out how to deal with Hammer Industries.


    They should have kowtowed instead, they would have lived longer.


    Eileen had anticipated possible resistance here and had sent two Widows ahead to secure the area. These operatives, mistresses of stealth, had infiltrated the floor and neutralized the guards, ensuring the executives could not escape through some secret means to get around the lockdown.


    The boardroom doors were reinforced, a testament to the executives'' desire for security. They''d need heavy ordnance to get through¡­ If it weren''t for the fact they already controlled the whole building.


    Eileen scoffed at the lack of planning, the head offices and top floors of Hammer Industries buildings ran on separate power sources and with their own security systems controlled from within, to prevent exactly this scenario. With a simple command to Zara, the doors were opened, revealing a scene of opulent decor and tense occupants. Agger and his board members sat at a large table, their faces a mix of anger and fear.


    Agger specifically seemed to lean mostly towards anger, his face red, eyes flashing with hatred.


    Eileen stepped forward, her eyes locked on Agger. "Your plots end, Agger," She said, her voice steady and cold. "We''ve taken everything from you, and soon the world will know what Roxxon truly is, your company will be eaten alive." She sneered, "You shouldn''t have tried it, you shouldn''t have thought a worm like yourself could ever touch Justin Hammer."


    Agger''s expression hardened, but he remained silent. He knew he was outmatched, or he didn''t want to speak with what he''d see as lackeys, whatever his reason, it saved them pointless posturing. The Widows spread out, prepared in case one of the men was more than they seemed and attempted anything.


    Yelena brought up her H-phone, one not affected by the communications jam, "Sir, he''s ready for the extraction."


    A swirling orange portal opened up in the boardroom, the board members rearing back in shock, except for Agger, who only clenched his fists.


    They could have done this from the beginning to get Agger, but they''d wanted to crush all of them, not just the CEO.


    Kaecillius stepped through, and then stepped aside, "Mister Agger, Master Hammer awaits¡­"


    When Agger didn''t make any moves to stand up, Yelena slowly raised a gun, the silencer still on, "You can walk on your own, or you can crawl after I shoot your balls off." She threatened sweetly, for all intents looking like she''d prefer he picked the second option.


    Slowly Agger stood, his face a mask of rage and distress, everything he''d built crumbling before him, as he slowly walked through the portal.


    The last thing Agger heard or saw of Roxxon - were the cries of protest - and the muffled sounds of gunshots, as the board expired behind him.


    Justin smiled pleasantly as the man who''d ordered him killed came to stand before him, sitting ready in an almost throne-like chair as he sipped on some brandy, "Well, look who it is, it''s Aggy, we have so much to talk about¡­"


    "There will be consequences for this, you can''t brush this under the rug, Hammer, you might have defeated me, but if you kill me you''ll never get out of this." Agger growled, clenching his fists so hard drops of blood were falling onto the carpet.


    Justin smiled condescendingly, "Oh, sweet little Aggy, you have no idea what you''re dealing with."


    "Now let''s have a nice, long, talk¡­ You and I¡­"


    Yelena and Eileen came through the portal, which immediately closed afterwards, the Black Widow and the Metahuman coming to stand behind Agger.


    "Make him sing, ladies."


    <hr>


    2 days later, Washington D.C.


    Moving faster than any government in American history, the United States Congress asked Justin to testify before the national security subcommittee two days after the Roxxon attack, and a little over a week after the attack on himself.


    Asked, not subpoenaed, because Justin was obviously the victim here, and also because all the new cute little congressmen wouldn''t dare piss him off by requesting his presence like they were better than him.


    With two attacks on him, the Oscorp attack, the attack on Stark, and now Roxxon being both a site of a slaughter, as well as their dirty laundry leaking out all over the internet - the American government was concerned.


    With concern being code for panicking.


    With warhawks on the rise and constant national security issues plaguing the country, not to mention the absolute failure of SHIELD to do¡­ Anything about any of these attacks - it had created the perfect storm for Justin.


    Politicians who desperately needed him and his companies, politicians who feared losing all of what gave America an edge in international affairs and military - politicians ripe for the picking.


    The atmosphere in the Congressional chamber was tense, the media having been pushing Congress members hard on the recent national security failures. Justin, as the CEO of Hammer Industries, was set to testify before the national security subcommittee about the recent attack on him by mercenaries in New York. This attack, which resulted in over 20 civilian casualties, was a stark reminder of the vulnerability of America''s industrial giants - How Hammer Industries, Stark Industries and Oscorp to name a few - would flounder with the simple removal of the man at the top.


    A great worry for the government when those three companies were responsible for a large chunk of all military contracts, and literally all of the more innovative and futuristic solutions.


    Justin''s presence was not merely a matter of his own importance either at this point; it underscored the profound economic and security implications of such attacks on corporations like Hammer Industries, Oscorp, Stark Industries, and Roxxon. With his significant economic influence, Justin knew his testimony was expected to be a pivotal moment, as the committee sought his insights on preventing future incidents.


    As they begged him for his advice. Oh, they wouldn''t use any of those words of course, but he''d been oh so prettily asked to show up, while the likes of Stark had simply been subpoenaed.


    The Congressional chamber buzzed with subdued activity as staffers and reporters settled in for the hearing. The room, adorned with portraits of past political leaders, exuded an air of solemnity. Members of the national security subcommittee, a mix of seasoned politicians having come out of retirement to run after the catastrophe and newer faces, took their seats at the long, polished raised dais at the front of the room.


    Key figures included the committee chair, Elizabeth Kline, a staunch supporter of industrial innovation, a Warhawk, and also 87 years old, and Richard Connors, known for his gruff demeanor and no-nonsense approach, having been a governor for 8 years before he retired, patriotism making him run for Congress due to the Wakanda crisis.


    Among them were also Representatives Susan Delgado and Michael Hayes, both known for their close ties to the corporate sector and supportive stance toward Justin - they''d run on exactly that - telling their constituents that they''d ensure Justin had a free hand to improve the country.


    He hadn''t even needed to pay them a dime, they''d supplicanted themselves all on their own.


    Representative Kline rapped her gavel to bring the room to order. "Good morning, everyone. We are here today to discuss the recent attack on Mr. Justin Hammer and the broader implications for our national security. Mr. Hammer, thank you for joining us. We look forward to your insights on how we can prevent such tragic incidents in the future." Her voice, while weak and raspy, was also sharp.


    Panacea couldn''t cure age, but it had brought her back into the state of a perfectly healthy 87 year old - Justin figured he had good odds she''d be willing to sign off on what he wanted.


    He had the President in his corner, but Congress was also an invaluable tool, the more they subverted themselves on his behalf, the easier things would become for him once he had to step up his game - once he had to fight the likes of HYDRA.


    Justin, dressed in a sharp dark blue suit, rose to speak. His tone was calm, yet firm. "Thank you, representative Kline, and the esteemed members of the committee. The attack on Hammer Industries was not just an assault on my company but an attack on American innovation and enterprise - as was the similar attacks on Oscorp, Stark Industries and Roxxon. I am here today to offer my perspective on how we can fortify our defenses and ensure that such tragedies do not occur again."


    If there was a tiny bit of a smirk growing on his face, it was for the humor in the situation. He was behind two of those attacks after all. And now he was going to make bank due to it.


    Representative Delgado was the first to pose a question, her tone friendly and supportive. "Mr. Hammer, given your extensive experience in the industry, what immediate steps do you think we should take to protect our industrial infrastructure and persons of national importance like yourself?"


    Justin nodded at her appreciatively, flashing a smile, "Representative Delgado, I believe we need a multi-faceted approach. First, increasing investment in cybersecurity to protect our technological assets - the enemy somehow knew where to strike after all. Second, enhancing physical security measures at key industrial sites. Third, fostering greater collaboration between the private sector and government agencies to share intelligence and best practices - we have the money to protect ourselves but not the knowledge of the threats¡­"


    And hey, wouldn''t you know, Hammer Industries had a great private security company growing rapidly, with a neat cyber division too. Justin wasn''t so crass as to bring it up, but he knew everyone present knew exactly what he was speaking about.


    Representative Hayes followed up. "Mr. Hammer, your company in particular has been at the forefront of technological advancements. How can we leverage these advancements to bolster our national security for the sector?"


    Heh, owning congressmen is so useful, Justin thought, a prideful smirk on his face as he preened slightly in his seat, the question teeing things up perfectly.


    "Representative Hayes, innovation is our greatest asset against our enemies. We need to harness the cutting-edge technologies Hammer industries can provide, to protect and preserve our industrial might over our rivals and enemies. The fact of the matter is that Hammer industries have survived these attempts stronger than ever, proof of concept of our system, proof the government can use to institute the same across the industry." Justin said, speaking slowly and solemnly, even as he basically told the government to buy his shit and pay his security company to protect industrial assets all over America.


    Give it another two, three years, and he''d basically be ruling the country completely.


    Representative Connors leaned forward, his expression steely, his dark eyes intent. "Mr. Hammer, your company has been targeted multiple times. Some might argue that these attacks are a direct result of your aggressive business practices. How do you respond to those who say you bear some responsibility for these incidents?" He gestured briefly to the gallery, where Justin knew Tony Stark was sitting, waiting his turn, "Seems to me like we didn''t have any of these problems until you started kicking up a fuss, and now you''re trying to profit off your rivals too."


    Justin''s demeanor remained composed, though a flicker of irritation crossed his eyes. Can''t win them all I suppose¡­  He thought.


    "Representative Connors, while it is true that Hammer Industries is a high-profile target, it is precisely because we are leaders in our field and of immense importance to national security. Our success attracts attention, both positive and negative. However, it is unfair to place the blame for criminal acts on the victims of those acts. We must focus on holding the perpetrators accountable and strengthening our defenses - defenses that have succeeded in the case of Hammer industries¡­"


    Justin shrugged easily, flashing a friendly smile, even as his eyes remained slightly pointed at the hardass representative, "It''s a free market out there, sir, and we have proven that we can protect what is important. We can''t risk any more blunders in regards to national security."


    The number one step of winning in American politics? Mention national security a lot as your excuse to get away with anything. And pointedly, Hammer Industries had gotten away better off from the attacks, compared to Oscorp, SI and Roxxon anyway.


    Connors pressed on, dropping the national security angle for now. "And what about the civilian casualties, Mr. Hammer? Over 20 innocent lives were lost. How do you address the concerns of those who feel your company''s presence, your presence, brings undue risk to the public?"


    There''s a murmur amongst the gallery at that, some outrage popping up before security quiets down the crowd, escorting the loudest out. That had not been a popular move.


    Justin took a deep breath, affecting a saddened look for the cameras, looking at the representative reproachfully. "The loss of innocent lives is a tragedy that weighs heavily on me, and even though I couldn''t possibly have been aware I was going to be attacked in public, I will be ensuring the families are suitably compensated so they can at least move forward with life without financial worries." Idiots¡­ More die each day in America from stupidity, why care about these twenty in particular¡­?


    Applause broke out from the gallery, and Connors leaned back in his chair, dissatisfied, but obviously unwilling to press further with Justin so easily beating aside his objections.


    Representative Kline banged her gavel to regain order, interjecting to steer the conversation toward broader economic implications. "Mr. Hammer, could you elaborate on the potential economic impact if such attacks continue? How vital are companies like Hammer Industries, Oscorp, Stark Industries, and Roxxon to our national economy?" Her face was severe as she stared down at him, "How long until our national security is debilitated by such attacks?"


    Justin paused to take a sip of water, before nodding. "The industrial sectors which all of our companies have great market shares in, are the backbone of our economy. Companies like ours drive innovation, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the GDP. If these attacks persist, the economic consequences could be devastating - disrupted supply chains, loss of investor confidence, and a decline in technological advancement. It is imperative that we protect these pillars of our economy - especially in today''s climate, where we provide a significant amount of the materials for the military and intelligence apparatus."


    Representative Delgado picked up on this point. "Mr. Hammer, you mentioned earlier the need for increased investment in cybersecurity and physical security. Can you provide specific examples of what Hammer Industries is currently doing and what more needs to be done?"


    Good boy, Justin thought, smiling pleasantly,


    "Hammer Industries has already implemented advanced cybersecurity protocols that we''d be willing to sell and/or install for the government or private sector, as well as proprietary state-of-the-art physical security systems at our facilities - including using our own private security that is leagues above anyone else''s.  Naturally I believe it would also be wise to propose the creation of a national task force dedicated to protecting industrial assets from both physical and cyber threats."


    A task force that would recommend Hammer industries as the company to redo the security systems of all government agencies and all private sector sites of great importance to national security. He''d make sure of it.


    He hadn''t planned this when he angrily struck back at Roxxon, but once the opportunity popped up, he''d be a fool to not push for something like this.


    He knew Stark enough to know he''d try to push for something similar once he was questioned, except he wouldn''t have quite the same shimmer of success as Justin had, through Hammer industries meteoric rise.


    Representative Connors, still not entirely satisfied, posed another challenging question, glaring down at him, "Mr. Hammer, you speak of collaboration and investment, but can you assure us that your company''s practices align with national security interests? There have been concerns about the transparency and ethics of your business operations." His glare intensified, "As in the complete lack of any transparency."


    "Ooh, damn, you got told on that one!" Tony Stark called out laughingly from the backseats, Pepper Potts frantic shushing sounds stopping him from interjecting anything further. Notably security did not move to remove Tony Stark. There was a divide between people like them and regular citizens, they were just better, and the normals realized it and acted as such.


    Justin ignored Tony with nary a twitch and met Connors'' gaze steadily. "Hammer Industries operates with the highest standards in the world and always proceeds with the largest standard of ethical conduct. We are fully committed to aligning our practices with national security interests. I am more than willing to provide any additional information the committee requires to alleviate these concerns."


    No I''m not, but it''s not going to come to that¡­ Transparency, bah! I own my company, no one gets to stick their fingers in.


    As the hearing progressed, it became evident that the public and political reactions were as varied as the committee members'' questions. The media coverage of the hearing was extensive, with news outlets and analysts dissecting Justin''s every word and the committee''s responses.


    A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    Despite the fact Tony Stark had so far only been involved in one heckling sentence, he had a whole segment on just him, analyzing his comment, looking for hidden meanings.


    Public opinion was divided. Supporters of Hammer Industries and the broader industrial sector saw Hammer as a visionary leader under siege, unfairly targeted by criminals. Critics, however, questioned the concentration of economic power and the potential risks posed by such influential corporations - especially the fact that like Representative Connors had pointed out, Hammer industries had no transparency.


    Still, even with those slight questions raised, Justin just knew he was coming out on top, any further investment into national security would come his way, he would beat out Tony for it, and Osborn hadn''t even answered his subpoena, so he surely wasn''t getting any more contracts.


    A shame he hadn''t shown up, he and Tony had only just begun to move against him, it would have been interesting to have all three of them in the same room.


    As the part of the hearing requiring him drew to a close, representative Kline offered Justin a chance to make a last statement, one the obviously took, performing more for the cameras than the committee.


    Justin stood for his closing remarks, a congenial smile on his face. "Thank you, representative Kline, and members of the committee. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss these critical issues. Hammer Industries remains committed to leading the way in innovation and security, and we are eager to collaborate with all stakeholders to build a safer, more resilient future for all of America."


    As Justin left, Domino at his side, his and Tony''s eyes met, both of them nodding.


    Irregardless of their dislike of each other, it was time to knock Norman down, they''d fight over these no doubt fat and juicy contracts on their way, and they weren''t going to allow Norman a single slice of the pie.


    <hr>


    By the next day, without bothering to even communicate about it, they both began striking back at Norman Osborn, trying to force him out in his shitty suit.


    Tony Stark and Justin Hammer had joined forces to bring down Norman Osborn''s empire - the conclusion was already set in stone by that one act. Oscorp, through a series of calculated economic maneuvers, would suffer. Their tactics were ruthless, each action designed to destabilize Osborn''s company and erode its foundations.


    The initial strike was a coordinated stock assault. Stark and Hammer shorted Oscorp shares not owned by Norman himself, causing market panic as investors and owners of the stock panic sold, worried about what the two titans knew that they didn''t.


    Due to their involvement and what they did elsewhere as well, they''d likely face legal issues if they weren''t who they were - and had the government ties to completely squash any such thing.


    Simultaneously, Stark and Justin both leveraged their media connections to launch a relentless smear campaign against Oscorp. Articles and news segments began questioning Oscorp''s safety standards, ethical practices, and leadership. Their outsized influence over the media ensured that the narrative remained focused on Oscorp''s potential malfeasance, creating a storm of negative publicity that Osborn struggled to counter.


    Especially as Norman was nowhere to be found to counter anything they were doing.


    Justin, meanwhile, also took a different route. Utilizing his extensive network within the regulatory and political spheres, he began a covert campaign to stymie Oscorp''s operations. He lobbied key politicians and regulatory officials to scrutinize Oscorp''s permits and licenses, initiating investigations that would tie up Osborn''s projects in bureaucratic red tape for years once they got going, just the threat of it once it leaked - sinking the stock prices even further. Construction permits would be delayed, operational licenses were questioned, and every aspect of Oscorp''s expansion plans faced unprecedented scrutiny.


    Justin and Tony would both take a monetary hit from the shares they shorted to start the panic, but it was peanuts all things considered.


    Justin''s influence extended to local government as well. He sent his people out, and convinced city councils and zoning boards to re-evaluate Oscorp''s permits wherever they had an office or a warehouse/factory, citing various environmental and safety concerns. Projects that were critical to Oscorp''s growth were suddenly being bogged down by legal challenges and regulatory reviews - all appearing within the same few days, drowning their legal department. The constant pressure and delays caused significant financial strain on the company.


    Still Norman didn''t show up, frustrating the both of them.


    There was no sighting of the man, or the Green Goblin.


    Stark didn''t stop at media manipulation either. He called upon his military connections, using his influence to cast doubt on Oscorp''s military contracts, bypassing Ross and going lower in the chain, something that hadn''t even occurred to Justin. Whispered accusations of malfeasance and substandard practices reached the ears of military officials and defense contractors. Reports of faulty equipment and ethical breaches began circulating, prompting formal inquiries into Oscorp''s defense contracts from the bureaucratic side. These inquiries disrupted existing deals and put future contracts at risk, hitting Oscorp''s most lucrative revenue streams.


    The combined assault from the both of them was relentless. The media blitz created a public relations nightmare for Osborn, while Justin''s regulatory maneuvers slowed Oscorp''s operations to a crawl. Investors, seeing the growing instability, began to lose faith in Oscorp''s ability to weather the storm. Stock prices continued to plummet, and key clients started abandoning ship.


    Oscorp was losing value so quickly that employees began abandoning ship, fearful they wouldn''t have jobs soon enough anyway.


    Justin was fairly annoyed that Stark had anticipated it before him, and managed to snap up a lot of the staff that weren''t focused on weapons development.


    Behind the scenes, their teams worked tirelessly to outmaneuver Oscorp at every turn. The only thing souring their victory was the fact that Norman Osborn was still a no show.


    Even as much as they hammered the company, it could not fall, not completely, not with the monetary windfall in military contracts they held. Without Osborn revealed as the Green Goblin, Oscorp was still too entrenched in the Military with Ross assistance.


    Their teams continued to pummel Oscorp in the background, but both Justin and Tony had busy schedules, so they were forced to admit defeat for now.


    Oscorp was a shadow of itself, but it still stood - its CEO in the wind.


    Justin ordered all Hammer industry facilities to be on a lookout, and to immediately contact the home team in case of attack, Kaecilius on standby to transfer the majority of HAMMER anywhere the Green Goblin appeared.


    He couldn''t understand it, he himself would have never just stood by if someone attacked his company.


    What the hell was Norman up to?


    <hr>


    Peru, South America.


    The dense jungle of Peru was a labyrinth of green, the thick canopy above casting shadows on the forest floor. Birds called to each other in a symphony of chirps and squawks, while the underbrush rustled with unseen creatures. The air was humid, the smell of earth and vegetation permeating everything. Clint Barton and Natasha Romanoff moved silently through this verdant maze, their senses sharp and alert, this was almost nostalgic for the two, even if they''d never grow to love mosquitoes.


    "Are you sure he''s here?" Natasha asked, her tone laced with skepticism. She wiped a bead of sweat from her forehead, scanning the dense foliage for any sign of movement. It was a little bit more out of reach than his usual patterns. "You didn''t just take me through the jungle because you wanted off the couch?"


    Clint, ever the optimist, grinned. "According to our intel, or Hill at least, this is the place. You know Banner, he''s not exactly easy to track, but once you''ve nailed a place down, he usually doesn''t move quickly once he''s feeling safe and isolated enough." He completely ignored any assertion about couches, Laura would surely forget he was in the doghouse by the time he got back.


    Natasha sighed, adjusting the strap of her pack. "Yeah, well, this better not be another wild goose chase. We''ve been at this for days."


    Clint acknowledged it with a silent nod, knowing she was in a horrid mood with the recent happenings. Hammer had been the start, but now with everything with SHIELD¡­


    They were loyal to Fury, although it was more to say that Nat was loyal to him and Phil - and they followed Fury, than anything else.


    They continued their trek, the path becoming narrower and more treacherous. Clint, ever the sharpshooter, took the lead, his eyes constantly scanning for any sign of danger or their elusive target. Natasha followed closely, her movements graceful and deliberate, not even the jungle could make the Widow take a wrong step.


    "So," Clint began, a mischievous tone in his voice, the trek boring, and poking Nat being one of his favorite pastimes, no matter how dangerous, "I saw that Yelena''s working for Hammer now. She looks exactly like you described her, going to get in touch again?"


    Natasha''s expression darkened. "Not the time, Clint." She said clippedly.


    "Come on, Nat," He persisted, ducking under a low-hanging branch. "If you won''t, then why hasn''t she reached out? You two used to be close from what you told me."


    Natasha''s jaw tightened. "It''s complicated. And I don''t have to explain my family to you."


    The fact Nat even said the word family, told Clint enough about Yelena, and he wondered if Hammer was the reason the two women didn''t reconnect.


    Or if Nat was still embarrassed.


    Clint raised his hands in mock surrender. Seeing a lost cause, for now. "Okay, okay. Just making conversation."


    They pushed forward, the vegetation growing thicker and the air more oppressive. The sound of a distant river reached their ears, providing a momentary distraction from the heat and insects. Clint took a moment to glance back at Natasha, who was clearly not in the mood for banter.


    Didn''t stop him anyway. That''s why everyone loved him. His tenacity.


    "Look, I get it," He said more seriously. "Family stuff is tough. But we have a job to do, and if she''s in with Hammer, that could complicate things for all of us, it''s worth getting in touch, seeing what''s what." He knew appealing to her familial instincts wouldn''t work, so he tried something more business like.


    Go Nat, pump your sis for information, and while you''re at it, have a coffee, reconnect, do your nails, or whatever girls do together.


    Natasha shot him a withering look. "Focus on the mission, Barton."


    Clint nodded with a sigh, wisely deciding to drop the subject. They continued in silence, the sounds of the jungle enveloping them. After what felt like hours, they finally reached a small clearing near the riverbank. The sound of rushing water was louder now, mingling with the chirping of insects and the occasional call of a monkey.


    "There," Clint whispered, pointing to a small, dilapidated hut partially obscured by vines and overgrowth. "This has to be it."


    It was either Banner, or a hermit that really wanted to stay away from people.


    Natasha nodded, her eyes narrowing as she surveyed the area. "Let''s go."


    They approached cautiously, their movements synchronized and silent. As they neared the hut, they could see a faint light flickering inside, evidence of someone''s presence. Clint signaled for Natasha to take the lead, knowing her pretty face was more disarming than his if they were spotted.


    Natasha crept up to the door, her back pressed against the wooden frame. Clint positioned himself on the other side, his bow at the ready in case this was all a set up, with recent events, Hill could have been compromised, they weren''t going to take any chances. With a nod, Natasha pushed the door open slightly, getting a good look inside, before relaxing slightly, nodding at Clint, who put his bow on his back, and together they entered the dimly lit interior.


    Inside, the hut was sparsely furnished, with a makeshift bed, a table cluttered with likely stolen scientific equipment, and stacks of books and papers. In the corner, a figure sat hunched over a microscope, his broad shoulders and disheveled hair unmistakable.


    "Doctor Banner," Natasha called softly, her voice cutting through the silence, her persona appearing so much softer suddenly. Less threatening.


    Clint marveled at it, even as he put on an easy grin of his own, perfectly capable of playing the affable clown to set someone at ease.


    The figure turned, revealing the haggard face of Bruce Banner. His eyes widened in surprise, but he quickly masked it with a wary expression. "Who are you? What are you doing here?"


    Clint stepped forward, hands raised, offering a reassuring smile. "We have an offer for you, Doctor Banner. One that you might want to hear." He shrugged his shoulders easily, "We''re agents of SHIELD, and we''re not here for the other guy, if that''s what you''re worried about."


    Bruce glanced between them, his gaze lingering on Natasha. "I''m not interested in joining whatever agency you''re from." He said with disinterest, tension in his frame.


    Natasha stepped forward, her tone gentle but firm. "It''s not about that. We need your help. And this time, it''s different - we''re not after your research or the other guy."


    Bruce''s shoulders slumped slightly, the weight of his isolation evident. "Different how?"


    Clint stepped in, his voice earnest. "We''re on a mission to save the world, you could say. We need your expertise, your knowledge. And we can offer you a safe place to work, away from all this." He gestured to the primitive surroundings, "State of the art lab, doc."


    Bruce hesitated, his eyes flickering with uncertainty. "Why me? There are other scientists out there."


    Natasha met his gaze, her eyes softening, playing her role, "Because we trust you, Bruce, We know you, maybe not personally, yet, but we know you''re not a bad guy."


    The room fell silent, the tension palpable. Outside, the jungle continued its symphony, oblivious to the monumental decision being made within the tiny hut. Finally, Bruce sighed, a hint of resignation in his voice. "Alright. I''ll hear you out."


    No doubt he expected to have to end up running anyway. The Hulk, an inevitability in his mind.


    But that wasn''t their department. Their job was simply to get the man to Fury. Anything else was above their head.


    Natasha and Clint exchanged a relieved glance, knowing that this was just the first step.


    They still needed to get him back to America without SHIELD or any myriad of people keeping an eye on Banner, finding out.


    It was a little like smuggling a nuke.


    Luckily Natasha had some experience there.


    <hr>


    The upscale New York restaurant exuded luxury and sophistication. Soft lighting from ornate chandeliers bathed the room in a warm, golden glow, reflecting off polished marble floors and rich mahogany tables. Waiters moved with practiced grace, carrying trays laden with gourmet dishes and fine wines. The hum of polite conversation and the clinking of silverware created a symphony of urban refinement.


    Justin sat at a corner table, the city''s skyline visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows behind him. He was dressed in a perfectly tailored navy suit, a particularly fine one he''d picked for the occasion. Across from him sat Hope, her beauty radiant in the ambient light. She wore an elegant black dress that hugged her athletic frame, her hair styled in loose waves that framed her face. Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she teased Justin, as she had been since they were seated.


    "So, tell me, Justin," Hope said, her tone playful, "How much did you have to throw at the chef to get us this reservation?"


    The restaurant was booked out for the next two and a half years after all.


    Some celebrity chef running the place, Justin hadn''t cared other than for the fact Hope was a fan, so he''d ensured they''d get in.


    Yelena had been grumpy at the order, but considering her little prank on him, he figured she was the perfect person to set up this little date.


    Due to how busy he''d been, he hadn''t had a chance to connect with her when she''d been in Africa working on the space project the last few days.


    Justin chuckled warmly, leaning back in his chair. "Oh, you know, not that much. I promised him a visit from Captain America and an autograph, and some other minor concessions. Anything to keep you happy, Hope."


    She rolled her eyes, but her smile was genuine. "Flattery will get you nowhere, you know. But I have to admit, this place is impressive." She looked around, eyes sparkling, "I''ve been wanting to come since I heard about it opening." She murmured, giving him a look that he couldn''t quite decipher, except maybe as hungry.


    Well they were at a restaurant.


    The waiter arrived with their first course, a delicate lobster bisque served in fine porcelain bowls. The aroma was tantalizing, a blend of rich cream and fresh seafood, garnished with a hint of chive.


    Justin didn''t see what was so famous about this chef, since he just did classic gourmet food, couldn''t any fancy chef do that? But he held his tongue and ate the tasty food.


    How someone that crooned about flavor town constantly would end up a classical French chef he didn''t understand, but at least the food was good.


    "This looks incredible," Hope remarked, having her first taste of the bisque. "It tastes incredible too¡­ You always manage to impress, don''t you?"


    "It''s a talent," Justin replied with a wink. "But seriously, Hope, I wanted to thank you for meeting me tonight. It''s been a while since we had a chance to catch up."


    She nodded, her expression softening. "It has. You''ve been busy with Hammer Industries and that deplorable attack" Her eyes flashed for a moment as she looked angry, before she sighed, not wanting to ruin their time going over that issue," And I''ve had my hands full with Pym Technologies and the space project. But it''s good to see you. Really good." She tucked some hair behind an ear almost shyly.


    Their conversation flowed easily, a mix of friendly banter and light flirting. Justin quietly admired the way Hope carried herself, confident and poised, yet with a warmth that made her such a delight to spend time with. They moved on to the next course, a beautifully plated filet mignon for Justin and a beautifully prepared quail for Hope. The flavors were exquisite, each bite a testament to the chef''s skill, no matter how annoying his personality, he did know how to cook.


    As they laughed and talked, the door to the restaurant swung open, and a ripple of awareness passed through the room. Emma Frost, resplendent in a white designer gown that clung to her statuesque figure, entered with an air of regal authority. Her platinum blonde hair cascaded in waves over her shoulders, and her piercing blue eyes scanned the room with cool detachment. In front of her, a waiter with a blank gaze hurried forward with an extra chair, placing it at Justin and Hope''s table.


    Without waiting for an invitation, Emma gracefully sat down, her presence commanding attention. "Justin," She said smoothly, her voice like silk, "Do you have time for a chat?"


    Justin''s expression remained calm, though his eyes flashed with irritation. "Emma, always a pleasure. This is Hope Van Dyne, by the way." He said sarcastically, "Since it seems you forgot to take her into account."


    Hope''s eyes narrowed slightly, but she extended a polite hand. "I know who you are, Miss Frost. Frost Industries has quite the reputation." The bite to her tone was in no way friendly.


    Emma''s smile was courteous but distant. "Yes, we do. And I''m aware of your accomplishments, Ms. Van Dyne. Now, Justin, we need to talk about something urgent." She said, immediately disregarding Hope, to the woman''s obvious annoyance.


    Justin bit back a retort, this woman¡­ She dodged his calls, only to show up like this? What a bitch.


    Hope glanced at Justin, concern creeping into her eyes. "What''s going on, Justin?" She eyed Emma distastefully, "I wasn''t aware you had business dealings with Frost industries¡­"


    Justin placed a reassuring hand on Hope''s arm. "It''s alright, Hope. Emma and I are allies of sorts. She has some information that could be important." He glared at her, "It better be important." He warned.


    Allies or not, beautiful or not. If she was wasting his time and ruining his time with Hope, he would make her regret it.


    Emma''s eyes turned towards Hope for a moment, before returning to Justin, who simply nodded, telling her he didn''t mind Hope being involved in this, he did have one comment though, "Is this really the place for this, Emma¡­"


    She simply smiled, as every head in the restaurant turned away from them, the staff and patrons alike robotically returning to their previous actions, with none of the curiosity they''d held just moments ago. "Yes." She said simply.


    "Justin¡­" Hope said lowly, peering around them, looking ready to deploy the Wasp suit.


    Justin waved her down, as well as Domino and Yelena who''d both drawn weapons when Emma flexed her power. "Get to the point, Emma, since you couldn''t bother picking up the phone for this."


    Emma leaned forward slightly, her voice low but clear. "Phones are a risk, you never know who could be listening. I have intelligence on Mr. Sinister. He''s a geneticist with a penchant for manipulation and experimentation. His real name is Nathaniel Essex, and he''s been involved in various clandestine operations for decades. Sinister is a master of genetic engineering and has been conducting experiments on humans to create superior beings, specifically one kind of humans..." Her eyes meet Justin''s, a curl of distaste to her lips, "Our¡­ Club¡­ Has made use of his services before."


    Hope''s eyes widened, a mix of disbelief and readiness to act. "Genetic experiments? What kind of danger are we talking about?" Seeing Justin''s calm face and demeanor, she settled somewhat, but the look she gave him clearly told him they would be talking after this.


    Justin figured it was about time he brought her slightly into his circle anyway, not fully. Not ever fully¡­ But a peek behind the curtain would only help.


    Emma continued, her tone grave. "Sinister''s ultimate goal is to create a race of superhumans under his control. He''s ruthless and has no regard for human life. His experiments often involve kidnapping and torturing his subjects. We have reason to believe he''s planning something massive - hence his control of Magneto and his people, and we need to stop him."


    Hope blanched at that, "Magneto is under his control?"


    Justin grimaced, "Unfortunately." He suddenly had a thought, looking at Emma, "You won''t mind if we do a quick test¡­ Just making sure I''m not speaking to Mystique right now¡­" He asked, waving for Yelena.


    Emma raised an impressed eyebrow, "Prudent. I approve."


    Yelena came over, and after a few words, produced a scanner, running it over Emma. After having held Mystique captive, and gotten plenty of samples and scans of her biology, they could now detect her with a scanner, one member of his inner circle always carrying one.


    "She''s clean." Yelena said, and at Justin''s nod she stepped back again, not before sending Hope a look, which the Pym Heiress completely ignored.


    "Does your contacts have any idea about his whereabouts?" He asked Emma, knowing it was the Hellfire club that had sent her.


    If they''d used him before, they''d looked into things once he''d talked to Emma, and realized the threat he was, and only then did they deign to come crawling back¡­


    For an ally, Emma was playing both fields a little too closely for Justin''s liking¡­


    Emma shook her head, "His last known location was Cairo, but that was years ago."


    Justin mulled over that coincidence, "I''ll have my people keep an eye out, just in case."


    "Is this why you created the team, Justin?" Hope asked, looking very dissatisfied with how the night had gone, but following his lead anyway, which he appreciated.


    "Partly, yes." He said, not willing to share fully with her. That way led only to tears.


    "Is that all, Emma?" He asked, trying to salvage what he could of the night.


    "Yes, but I''d quite like some dessert, I think." Emma said, not even having to move a finger, waitresses showing up with a dessert for all three of them.


    Justin and Hope both glared at her, and she simply smiled back cooly. "Since we''re all going to be good friends from now on, let''s get along."


    Yes..


    Justin was fairly sure he actually hated this woman.


    His eyebrows rose up in surprise, as the cool and detached Emma Frost, lightly began flirting with Hope over dessert.


    Yes, he definitely couldn''t stand this woman.


    <hr>


    The next day, New York Blacksite.


    Kaecillius had portaled them in, Cho having sent an email about her project, having a demonstration ready - although from the way she worded it, she didn''t have the best of news.


    Justin glanced at Domino and Eileen, who both nodded in confirmation that the area was secure. "Let''s get this over with," He said, his tone a mix of irritation and impatience.


    He was still sore over his night being ruined the previous night, and facing possible bad news from Cho had hardly made him feel better.


    They approached the heavy metal door of the bottom sublevel, which opened with a series of mechanical clicks and whirs. Inside, the blacksite was a stark contrast to its exterior. State-of-the-art technology lined the walls, and the air was filled with the faint hum of machinery. Security personnel, clad in black uniforms, were stationed at various points, their expressions unreadable.


    Their job was as much a line of last defense, as it was to keep anything Cho might do, contained.


    Helen Cho, dressed in a white lab coat, greeted them with a professional smile. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of nervousness and the usual admiration,  "Welcome, Jus- sir! I''ve been looking forward to seeing you - I mean showing you what I''ve been working on. And our latest breakthrough, even if not¡­ Exactly what you wanted." Her head lowered as she bit her lip, looking heartbroken to be reporting any kind of failure.


    Justin nodded, a tolerant smile playing on his lips. "I''m sure it''s not that bad Helen. Let''s see what you''ve got." He soothed her, hoping his word would be true.


    She led them through a series of corridors, each more secure than the last, until they reached a large, sterile room. In the center of the room, a reinforced glass enclosure housed a test subject. Justin''s eyes widened in shock as he saw the figure inside - a perfect clone of himself, its body a patchwork of flesh and gleaming Vibranium. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments had been replaced with Vibranium-enhanced counterparts, and the skin shimmered with a subtle metallic sheen where the subdermal armor had been implanted.


    The aesthetics had not been a priority until they had a viable path forward, so he wasn''t annoyed with the cyborg look, the fact it was himself he was looking at, that annoyed him quite a lot.


    "What the hell, Helen?" Justin exclaimed, unable to hide his surprise or his anger. "Is that... Me!?"


    Domino whistled, while Eileen and Kaecillius awkwardly looked away from the naked clone.


    Helen nodded, her expression calmer now for some reason, but also defensive. "Yes, Justin. For the enhancements to be done correctly, we needed a perfect test subject. A clone was the best option, so we could test how it would bind with your DNA properly¡­"


    Justin seriously doubted a clone was the only option, she could have grown single organs or muscles and tested things, she didn''t need a whole body.


    Domino burst out laughing, her amusement echoing in the sterile room. "Oh, this is rich! So, Justin, how does it feel to look at yourself and know you are definitely a glorified sex toy?"


    "Domino!" Eileen snapped, but the giggling woman ignored her to peer at the clone instead. She sauntered closer to the glass enclosure, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Nice equipment, by the way. Helen, you did keep this clone as a toy between tests, right?"


    Helen stuttered, clearly flustered by the question. "I-I assure you, Domino, all interactions were strictly professional."


    They all looked at her flushed face, and the squirming she did at their stares. Somehow none of them believed her.


    Justin rubbed his face, a vein pulsing in his forehead as he tried to hold back his anger. If she''d asked for permission, he might have even given her the go ahead. But to do this behind his back¡­


    "Sure they were," Domino replied, still chuckling. "Come on, Justin. Lighten up. You have to admit, it''s impressive."


    Justin tried to regain his composure, focusing on the matter at hand. "Alright, let''s get back to business first, before we deal with¡­ This¡­ Do Vibranium muscles, joints, and tendons, combined with Extremis and the Super Soldier Serum, provide enough of a benefit?"


    Helen sighed, her professional demeanor returning. "Unfortunately, no. While the Vibranium enhancements are incredible for a regular super soldier''s life expectancy, they don''t offer significant benefits when combined with Extremis. The regeneration abilities of Extremis are superior to any advantages the Vibranium might provide."


    Eileen snorted lightly, murdering under her breath, "Like walking around with Vibranium in you would have any benefit around Magneto¡­"


    "So, this whole project is a dead end?" Justin asked, frustration evident in his voice.


    "For your purposes, yes," Helen admitted. "However, for a standard super soldier, these enhancements could be revolutionary. But with Extremis, it''s just not worth it. The regeneration is better than any positive the Vibranium would give."


    Domino leaned against the glass, still smirking. "So, what''s the next move, Doc?"


    Helen hesitated before replying, "I suggest focusing on making the original uncontrollable Extremis, with its fire capabilities, more controllable. If we can harness that power, it would be a far more effective means to enhance a subject like Justin."


    Justin nodded at that, the gears in his mind already turning. "Alright, Helen. Let''s shift our focus. Work on stabilizing Extremis. Make it controllable and we''ll revisit this."


    Helen nodded, a determined look in her eyes. "Understood. We''ll make it happen."


    "... Now, let''s talk about cloning, hmm?" Justin said with a hint of heat to his voice.


    Unfortunately for him, his anger only seemed to excite Helen, even as she looked devastated to have failed him, her face flushed further, her eyes going slightly glassy, and he could see her nipples protruding through her top. "I need to be punished, I know¡­" She said breathlessly.


    "How did you even¡­ Your job was to test if Vibranium could be used to strengthen a body, how did that have you create working equipment to clone human bodies as a side effect?" Justin asked, just trying to understand.


    It was like trying to cure gassy stomachs and accidentally curing cancer instead.


    Helen squirmed slightly, "Ah, at first it didn''t work at all, I could only create¡­ Choice pieces." She murmured, looking down at the ground.


    "I bet I can guess what piec-uff!" Domino began, before getting punched in the shoulder by Eileen, "Hey, why didn''t my luck make me avoid that?" She pouted.


    "Even your luck thought you deserved that one." Eileen muttered. "I want to trade you for Yelena, if only she wasn''t busy with the Widows¡­"


    Justin glared at them, before focusing back on Helen, "Then how did you succeed?" He gestured to the clone, "That is far further than choice pieces."


    Helen looked up, cheeks red, "Well¡­ Kaecillius had a lot of ideas on how magic could help the process, when I explained to him what I was doing, he was able to help me shortcut the last steps through magic."


    Justin immediately turned, "Kaecillius!" Only to find a closing orange portal, the sorcerer having decided to flee the consequences of his actions.


    "That was our ride." Domino said with a sigh, still with an amused smile on her lips.


    "... I''ll deal with him later¡­ Helen, you''ve gone behind my back on this, I can''t let you off easy, this could have gone horribly wrong, you understand me? The reason you have carte blanche to science up whatever you want is because of me, which means you honestly report what is happening to me."


    Helen shrunk slightly at his growing anger, as he almost growled out the last part, "I also made two copies of me!" She squeaked out, hurrying to appease him, "They''re programmed to perform some¡­ Basic tasks. It''s like we''re triplets." She entreatied him.


    "A desperate ploy, Cho, just take your punishment." Eileen drawled, shaking her head.


    Justin opened his mouth to lambast her again. Then he paused. He''d have to cut her budget or punish her some other way, to show his displeasure, but¡­ Afterwards.


    "Triplets?"


    "Sir!?"


    "Bwahahaha!"


    Anything further was interrupted by a call, "Sir, he''s arrived." Was the first thing he heard once he answered.


    "Get Kaecillius back here!"


    <hr>


    Puerto Antiguo, New Mexico,


    The early morning sun cast a warm glow over the dusty landscape as Justin Hammer''s sleek black SUV pulled up to a modest trailer on the outskirts of Puente Antiguo, New Mexico. The scene was unassuming - a small, quiet area surrounded by rocky terrain - but what lay within was anything but ordinary.


    His team had been keeping an eye on Jane Foster, and yesterday''s storm had been impossible to miss,


    Justin stepped out of the SUV, adjusting his suit - preparing himself to meet a so-called god - albeit not the brightest one. Behind him, Domino and Phantazia followed, each exuding an air of readiness in case things took a turn for the worse - surely his butterflies hadn''t reached Asgard, however...


    Justin would be really impressed if his business moves somehow had managed that. Impressed and annoyed.


    He prefered Thor to be predictable.


    He definitely prefered Loki to be predictable.


    Odin¡­ He could just fuck right off. If it weren''t for the whole Hela thing, he''d just wish the old bastard would drop dead. Useless protector of anything.


    They approached the trailer, where Jane Foster, Erik Selvig, and Darcy Lewis were still coming to terms with the events of the previous day. Jane''s trailer was cluttered with scientific equipment and charts, a testament to her relentless pursuit of knowledge. The door was open to let air in, and their approach was noticed at last as they walked up.


    The scientists had not even heard their cars pull up, showing how intent they''d been on their readings.


    Jane looked up from her notes as the trio approached, her eyes widening in surprise. "Justin Hammer? What are you doing here?" She squawked, completely taken aback.


    Justin offered a polite smile. "Good morning, Dr. Foster. I''m here to speak with your guest. I believe his name is Thor."


    Erik Selvig stepped forward, his demeanor protective as he slipped Jane behind him. "What do you want with him? And with us?"


    Justin remained calm and courteous, not in too much of a rush, and knowing that pushing these people too hard would just get him in trouble with Thor later. "I assure you, Dr. Selvig, my intentions are purely professional. Thor''s presence here has garnered a lot of attention from those who could understand what happened last night, and I think we can all benefit from a conversation."


    Before Jane could respond, the door to the trailer opened, and Thor stepped out. Despite his now mortal body, he carried an undeniable aura of nobility and strength. His eyes narrowed as he took in the newcomers. Immediately recognizing Domino and Phantazia as warriors, Justin assumed.


    "Who are you?" Thor demanded, his voice firm, "You remind me of Loki¡­" He added, frowning.


    Justin inwardly winced, fantastic. Great beginning.


    Justin stepped forward, extending a hand. "My name is Justin Hammer. I represent Hammer Industries, you could call me the most powerful man in this realm, when it comes to economic and political might. I''m here to discuss your... Unique situation."


    Thor looked at Justin''s outstretched hand but did not take it. "What do you want from me?" He said, looking displeased, "Like Loki, you hide your meanings behind pretty words, speak plainly!"


    Before Justin could answer, the sound of approaching vehicles filled the air. Several black SUVs, emblazoned with the SHIELD logo, pulled up to the trailer. Agents in tactical gear swiftly disembarked, securing the area with military precision.


    Leading the team was Jasper Sitwell, accompanied by Agent John Garrett, whose presence commanded immediate attention. Garrett''s cold, calculating eyes scanned the group before settling on Justin, Domino immediately stepped closer with narrowed eyes, reacting to something Justin couldn''t see.


    Likewise Phantazia stepped back so she''d have eyes on both Thor and Garret. The scientists were all gaping at the scene before them.


    "Mr. Hammer," Sitwell said politely but firmly, "I''m afraid this man is coming with us."


    Justin frowned but maintained his composure. "And under whose authority?" He said, narrowing his eyes, knowing his place on the council was the worst kept secret in SHIELD.


    Garrett stepped forward, his tone authoritative and condescending. "Under the authority of SHIELD, of course. Thor is now under our jurisdiction." He smiled, a smile with nothing but malice behind it, "Though a fella like yourself would understand how these things work, Hammer¡­"


    Thor glanced between Justin and the SHIELD agents, his frustration growing. "I will not be taken against my will." He growled, pointing at Justin, "Especially not by the inferior Loki!"


    Justin wanted to face palm. Thor¡­ What the fuck?


    Domino and Phantazia subtly shifted into defensive positions, ready to react if necessary. Justin raised a hand, signaling them to stand down. A fight with HYDRA wouldn''t do them any good right now, and besides, just like SHIELD in canon, they''d waste their time on pointless interviews, and poking at the hammer.


    As a Security Council member, he could get more done by allowing it, following along, and then twisting Pierce''s arm a little to get access.


    "Mr. Thor," Justin said with forced calm, "I understand your reluctance, but SHIELD is a formidable organization. Perhaps it''s best if we cooperate for now and find a solution together." He eyed him meaningfully, which likely flew above his head, adding, "You''d learn nothing by throwing fists, don''t you agree?"


    Jane, Erik, and Darcy watched the exchange with a mix of confusion and concern. Jane stepped forward, her voice shaky but determined. "Thor, these people can''t just take you. We need to understand what''s happening." She turned to them, pleading, "You can''t take him, do you have any idea what we saw?"


    Garrett''s patience was visibly wearing thin. "Dr. Foster, I assure you, SHIELD has the resources and expertise to handle this situation - you should be thankful we''re not at this time appropriating your notes... Hammer, your cooperation would be appreciated." He ordered, making it clear he expected Justin to go along with this, or else.


    Who was this Joker? He missed Coulson already.


    Justin glanced at Garrett, recognizing the futility of resistance. "Very well, Agent Garrett. But know that I will be involved in this matter to its conclusion. Thor''s potential if his arrival here happened as reported - is too significant to ignore."


    Garrett nodded curtly. "Noted. Now, if you''ll excuse us." He said Insincerely to the scientists.


    Selvig was muttering at Thor, the man grumpily deciding to cooperate. Not before declaring he''d be back to continue to assist the Lady Jane, because no mere mortal could hold him.


    Justin rolled his eyes as Doctor Foster blushed, they''d barely had a few hours together, already Thor was working his charm.


    He''d be doing them both a favor if he prevented that relationship from happening.


    The SHIELD agents moved in, escorting Thor towards their vehicles. Thor cast a final, resolute look at Jane and her team before allowing himself to be led away.


    Justin turned to Jane, offering a reassuring smile. "I''ll ensure Thor''s safety and keep you informed. Trust me, Dr. Foster." He said, the smile not reaching his eyes.


    He had not expected HYDRA to be so on the ball, they''d surprised him, and he didn''t enjoy these kind of surprises.


    Jane nodded reluctantly, her eyes filled with worry. "Thank you, Mr. Hammer." She murmured.


    Darcy piped up suddenly, "Can I get an autograph?"


    Everyone looked at her, and she shrugged, "Hey, when am I ever going to be near the new emperor of mankind again?"


    "Darcy, don''t be ridiculous." Jane sighed.


    As SHIELD''s convoy departed, Justin, Domino, and Phantazia returned to their SUV. The morning sun continued to rise, casting long shadows across the desert landscape. The game had changed, but Justin was determined to remain a key player in whatever unfolded next.


    <hr>

 Smooth Criminal.

    <hr>


    Puente Antiguo, New Mexico.


    The sleek, black SUV pulled up to a nondescript office building SHIELD had commandeered for their operations - Justin knew from previous research of this town that it was a small FBI field office, so it made sense for SHIELD to commandeer it.


    With how bullish SHIELD generally were towards other agencies - like kicking the FBI out of their own building in this case - was there any wonder why the alphabet soup of agencies were mostly sitting back and enjoying SHIELDs latest failures? They still did their jobs in interest of national defense of course - but the cooperation with SHIELD was at an all time low.


    Something Justin had subtly encouraged because it would make taking down HYDRA easier when he pulled the trigger on that. Although he''d had to move carefully through his people due to the fact HYDRA had people in those agencies as well.


    This world was perfectly set up for people being quadruple agents instead of double agents¡­ When he was Emperor of mankind, there wouldn''t be this many damn intelligence agencies and secret societies and organizations¡­ It made work very annoying.


    The sun bearing down on them caused somewhat of a haze in the air, making Justin grateful for the fact temperatures really didn''t bother him much anymore. Justin stepped out of the vehicle, adjusting his suit with a mixture of irritation and determination for the conversation ahead of him - the fact HYDRA would be able to hear it was irritating, but not worth a fight over. Yet. Beside him, Domino and Phantazia moved with practiced precision, their teamwork back to normal after the absence, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any potential threats.


    He''d noticed the two seemed closer lately since Eileen''s return, and hadn''t commented on it so far, curious to see what was going on, as his read of them had never been that they had intentions like such.


    He felt slightly chagrined that he hadn''t really realized how upset Domino had been about Eileen going missing until they cured her and Domino dropped her mask for but a moment. In a way it did please him once he got over himself, because it showed he still had plenty to learn. With immortality likely with how quickly science was progressing under his aegis - life would get dreadfully dull if he didn''t get a chance to continue learning and improving.


    The building they were entering was unassuming, a relic of bureaucratic architecture with its plain facade and functional design - typical FBI aesthetics from the period the building was built. SHIELD agents were stationed at the entrance, eyeing them up with blank faces, their presence a stark reminder of the organization''s pervasive reach despite everything. Booting the FBI out on a few hours notice was not a small thing, showing they still had power despite their massive failures. Justin strode forward, his expression a mask of composure, even as he built and discarded plans for the conversation ahead of him.


    A lot hinged on getting this right. And he had to change his plan on the fly due to Thor''s weird reaction to him. Being compared to Loki was not at all flattering, and also¡­ Slightly odd, all things considered.


    Thor should still see Loki as his darling brother, surely the butterflies on earth had not reached Asgard? He couldn''t imagine how.


    Or perhaps it was something as simple as somewhere deep in the buffoons hindbrain, something cottoned on to the fact that Loki was acting suspiciously in recent events, and that anyone acting like Loki similarly was suspicious?


    He''d never get to know, likely, as he couldn''t ask Thor without coming off as too knowledgeable about things he should not know. It irritated him, but he could live with irritation. He had Domino around all day after all.


    Inside, the atmosphere was tense. Agents bustled about, their movements efficient and purposeful. Justin was led through a series of security checkpoints, pointlessly. Each more stringent than the last despite having been set up so rapidly. Agent Garrett was flexing it appeared...


    He''d let him have his delusions of control and power. Once Thor was gone, he could¡­ Educate the man on the matter.


    On the scale of things, Pierce would never choose an insignificant bug like Garrett over the benefits even a tentative alliance with Justin held.


    Justin always remembered slights. The only question was how far Garrett would push his patience.


    Finally, he reached the observation room adjacent to the interrogation room where Thor was being held.


    The sole such cell this building held apparently. Funny how a simple change in who was in charge led them here. Coulson had met with Thor in a comparatively easy going manner after all - Garrett had put him in what even an Asgardian would recognize as an interrogation room/cell.


    Domino and Phantazia stood at his sides, covering him completely from agent Garrett, neither of them allowing him to even step close. Garret only appeared to find it amusing, stepping up to the window a few feet away from them - his smile would have been genial with a bit of southern charm - if his eyes didn''t so clearly show a psychopath underneath.


    Not that being a psychopath was a problem to Justin. They just needed to know their place. Beneath him. Far far beneath him.


    Thor sat in the grey, bland room, his massive frame hunched slightly as he glowered at Jasper Sitwell, who sat across from him with a skeptical expression. The god of thunder, now stripped of his powers and Mjolnir, looked every bit the duck out of water. His borrowed Earth clothes only added to his disheveled appearance.


    "I have told you, mortal," Thor''s voice boomed, echoing in the confined space. "I am Thor Odinson, prince of Asgard. I demand to speak with someone who understands the gravity of my presence here."


    With the way his muscles rippled as he leaned forward, Justin assumed Thor was already getting annoyed with the patsies.


    All the better for him.


    As long as he didn''t actually attack, that would make things more problematic.


    Garrett likely would shoot the man. And Justin did not feel like a war with Asgard was something they could win. Yet.


    Sitwell leaned back in his chair, his demeanor cool and analytical. "Mr¡­Thor, or whatever you prefer to be called, we need more than grandiose titles and dramatic renditions of myths. You claim to be a god from another realm. Forgive us if we''re a bit skeptical."


    Sitwell gestured with one hand, "A show of some magic perhaps to cure us of our skepticism? Or some advanced technology, some proof?" He asked, trying to make it not seem like a demand.


    Justin could only wonder what HYDRA really thought of this. If anyone could quickly deduce Mjolnir was of extraterrestrial make, it would be them, surely? So what did they really want here, that they jumped on Thor so quickly? And why the bout of skepticism, when they obviously believed he was at least something?


    Thor''s eyes narrowed, his frustration palpable as he slammed a hand down on the steel table, making Sitwell flinch. "You dare question the word of a prince? Asgard is real, as are the Nine Realms. I have come here for a purpose, I am not a jester to play tricks for your amusement."


    From behind the one-way mirror, Justin watched the exchange intently. His mind raced as he considered the implications of Thor''s loud claims, and if HYDRA were going to act on any of it. Aliens, gods, other realms - these were concepts that could either be dismissed as lunacy or embraced as reality. The question was whether Sitwell, and by extension SHIELD/HYDRA, were going to do something with a potential access point to alien paradise¡­


    He needed to take charge of this, make it clear for Pierce and his friends that this lay in Hammer Industries wheelspace. This needed a scalpel, not a Hammer. His lips twitched slightly at his own thoughts.


    Justin turned to Garrett, who stood not far beside him, with a fake easy going smile - the man''s hands behind his back as he casually watched Justin instead of Thor. "What do you make of this guy, Hammer? Think he''s just another loony, or is there something to all this Asgard talk?" He asked with a dimpled smile, even as his eyes bored into Justin''s with barely repressed murder shining through.


    Justin wasn''t sure what to make of the man, this all seemed like it might perhaps be a test.


    Justin pondered what to say, what to reveal of his own knowledge, his eyes returning to the interrogation room. "The impossible hammer that showed up here at the same time as the subject, suggests there''s more to him than just delusions. We can''t afford to ignore the possibility, especially given the recent events." He said, telling him nothing he didn''t already know.


    Garrett snorted, his dislike of that answer evident. "Could be a piece of shit mutie too, aren''t you a bit too old to immediately believe in fairy tales and myths?" He fired back.


    Both Domino and Phantazia controlled their reactions masterfully, only through Justin''s own familiarity with them did he spot how their attention on the man sharpened at that comment.


    Justin himself wasn''t wildly impressed either. Especially as he had a feeling Garrett was poking them on purpose - he''d been ordered to be this antagonistic surely. He couldn''t be this stupid and make it this far in the organization. He wouldn''t have been so quick on grabbing Thor if he really didn''t believe in any of this. He was playing a game here. In what way, Justin wasn''t sure yet.


    Justin shot Garrett a pointed look. "The world is a lot bigger and stranger than most people realize, Agent Garrett. We need to keep an open mind. Antagonizing the man is hardly helping you, is it?"


    Garrett crossed his arms, his expression darkening slightly at Justin''s mild rebuke. "Fine. You want a crack at him, Hammer? Be my guest. Just don''t waste too much of our time."


    Justin nodded, appreciating the begrudging acquiescence as it moved things forward. He quickly stepped into the interrogation room, Domino following him, while Phantazia stayed behind in the observation room. He cleared his throat to announce his presence, and then mildly said, "Agent Sitwell, I''ll take it from here."


    Sitwell looked between Justin and Thor, then stood and nodded curtly. "Fine, but don''t expect him to be cooperative. He''s all bluster and no substance." Sitwell said snidely, obviously annoyed with being pulled out.


    Justin shook his head, laying a hand on the agents shoulder, preventing him from leaving as he tried to step out, Sitwell groaning slightly as Justin applied pressure, "I''m just a businessman," He said, continuing with the mild tone, his head tilted so he could look into Sitwell''s pained and surprised eyes, "But it seems to me that purposefully antagonizing our guest serves no purpose, and that you need to apologize."


    He squeezed slightly harder, "Now." He intoned, the creaking of bones heard briefly.


    "I apologize for my words, I was out of line." Sitwell quickly said to Thor, speed walking out of the room the second the Asgardian nodded, accepting the apology, Justin letting him go.


    HYDRA needed to realize Justin wasn''t a paper tiger. He wasn''t only a big bag of cash and influence. Not anymore. What he''d done was hardly revealing his full extent of super strength, but it was enough to perhaps make them more wary of these kinds of dick measuring contests in the future.


    If they realized¡­ Well, that would work out in his favor as well¡­ He''d be even more irresistible, and they''d bend even more to keep him onside.


    Justin watched as Sitwell exited the room, taking a moment to think, before he then turned his attention back to Thor, who eyed him with less rancor than he''d held just a moment ago.


    "Prince Thor," Justin began, his voice calm and measured. "My name is Justin Hammer. I''m here to help, if you''ll let me." He offered, taking a seat opposite of the man, calmly laying his hands in his lap.


    Domino stood right at his shoulder, close enough to assist if somehow Thor managed to get his powers back and strike out. An unlikely event, but it was better to be prepared then not.


    Justin could hardly defeat a fully powered Thor. But nowadays¡­ He could survive such a fight. And if he could only get that damn sling ring to work¡­ He could simply escape every time.


    Thor''s posture remained tense, but he inclined his head slightly. "You are not like the others." He mused out loud, "You speak with less contempt. What is it you seek from me, Justin Hammer?"


    Justin took his time with his answer, studying the lost prince. "I seek to understand. Your presence here is significant and we''d like to know more. I believe we can help each other. But I need you to trust me, at least a little."


    Thor''s eyes searched Justin''s face, as if weighing the sincerity of his words. "Trust is not easily given, especially to those who question my very identity. What proof do you require of my origins?" He rumbled, unhappily.


    Justin glanced at the window where the HYDRA agents were watching, aware he couldn''t be too forward. "Start by telling us about your home, about Asgard. What is it like? Why are you here, on earth, as you are?"


    Thor''s expression softened, his eyes taking on a distant look. "Asgard is a realm of great beauty and power. It is a place where magic and your science are one and the same, where warriors proudly stand as a bastion for all the nine realms." His posture changed slightly, his eyes growing darker as he continued, "I was sent here by my father, Odin, due to an event I wish to not speak of¡­"


    For several moments Thor was silent, staring down in his lap hard, seemingly still struggling with coming to terms with that fact, before his head rose, a small grimace on his lips, "According to the Lady Jane, she believes it was to learn humility and to understand the fragility of life."


    It seems Jane and Thor had a lot more to talk about here then in canon, huh? Justin thought, thinking on how to ensure that relationship didn''t happen this time around.


    He''d been ambivalent on the good Dr. Foster, leaving her be due to her importance in this first encounter, but now that he''d moved past that point. He wanted her.


    If space was the next step, Jane Foster should be in his care. Not pining for an alien. Justin definitely stood for Earth first, Thor and Asgard were only important in the way Justin could use them to defend Earth until they were ready.


    Justin nodded, taking in what Thor had said, "If you are who you say you are¡­ What are your intentions with Dr Foster? As a man of science myself, and as someone with influence on earth, I must ask." He said, faking an apologetic tone.


    It was as good an excuse as any other, really.


    Thor looked away for a moment, "Lady Jane is a fine woman," He said lowly, before looking at Justin with a slight threat in his body language, "You are not her keeper." He accused softly.


    Justin sighed, thrumming his fingers on the table, "Prince Thor, we have myths of you and your family. If this all is indeed true, how long is your lifespan, if I may ask?"


    Thor looked puzzled, tilting his head like he was a dumb puppy, "Centuries, it varies between different Asgardians." Some clarity came to his eyes afterwards, and he smiled condescendingly, "Aha, you worry that I shall be heartbroken due to mortals'' fleeting life span, worry not, I can handle it!" He boasted, puffing up his chest.


    Justin hid his instant irritation behind a genial mask, "Not quite so, Prince Thor." He said, keeping up with the title as Thor was relaxing in his presence more and more as he used it. What a surprise¡­ "Her suffering is what I worry about."


    He raised a hand as Thor opened his mouth, looking offended, no doubt about to protest that he''d never hurt a fair maiden or some such idiotic boast. It really was ridiculous how quickly he was infatuated.


    Especially when he had someone like Lady Sif who seemed all too eager to ride him around Asgard.


    "Let the mortal speak to you of mortals." He cautioned, relaxing in his chair, "You might say you''ll love her even as she ages, gets wrinkles and grey hair, as her mind goes¡­" He began, not informing the alien about how such a thing would likely slow down massively in the near future due to Panacea.


    He''d already further helped Bucky''s loyalty along by giving him leave to go shoot up Peggy Carter with a full Extremis dose rather than the weaker Panacea. Age and dementia and such was hardly the same barrier it had once been.


    "Yet how do you think she''ll feel? Watching you remain as you are? As she ends up feeling heartbroken and disgusted on the inside, as you keep caring for her as she becomes old and infirm, always wondering, always hating herself for it. How do you think she''ll feel when she realizes her entire life is only a footnote in yours?" Justin said softly, making Thor shut his mouth with a conflicted expression.


    "The Lady Jane would feel as such?" He asked, sounding shocked and sickened.


    Justin nodded firmly, "She might not even say it herself now, or see it. Young love is like that. But she''d grow to resent you. And to hate herself, as the decades passed." He cautioned.


    Humorously he wondered what expression Agent Garret was making right now. Watching this ''interrogation'' turn into advice on women. He almost wanted to be a fly on the wall when Pierce got this report.


    Thor rubbed his face, eyes staring into the distance, "I will think on it." He decided, and Justin didn''t push. He had likely done enough to prevent a whirlwind romance, and without that, their relationship would never kick off.


    "Unsolicited advice aside, are you willing to tell us more on why you were sent to Earth?" Justin queried, not wanting to give Thor too much time to think on things.


    You never knew what asinine decision he might come to if he was allowed to think too much on his own. He wasn''t as bad as Loki, but he was hardly wise either.


    Thor''s gaze hardened, even as he slumped slightly despondently in his seat. "I was cast out by my father for my arrogance and recklessness. Mjolnir, my hammer, was sent here as a test. Only by proving myself worthy can I reclaim it and return to Asgard, I¡­ It didn''t respond to me¡­"


    Huh, so that already happened? Before SHIELD was even here to boot, another change¡­


    Justin leaned back, considering Thor''s words. "So, this is about redemption for you. Proving that you''ve learned your lesson. I believe Dr Foster was likely correct in what she was saying." He cocked his head, studying Thor, while putting on a comforting facade, "Earth has advanced quite a lot, and it would be nice if perhaps Asgard would include us in such decisions in the future. You are after all visiting Royalty."


    Thor''s eyes brightened up, and he smiled, seemingly having forgotten any qualms he''d held before, "Truly that is so, I have learned much of how this world has progressed, Lady Jane is very accomplished!"


    Ah, let''s get away from Dr Foster¡­


    "We can see about helping you, Prince Thor, I''m sure you''ll learn enough to be able to get back soon." He offered, practically feeling Agent Garrett dark gaze on him, as he promised assistance.


    Thor seemed touched, leaning forward slightly, "Perhaps I misjudged you, other than Lady Jane, no one else has offered to help, and even she did not really believe what I was saying." There was intelligence in his eyes as he met Justin''s gaze, "Yet you do so easily¡­"


    Justin met his gaze calmly, "I am one of the most influential people in this ''realm'' Prince Thor. I am aware of the Kree attacking this world before, so Asgard is not an impossibility to me as it would be to the average person."


    Thor grimaced, rubbing the back of his head, "Ah, my father told me of that incident, rest assured that we protested harshly afterwards, and the Kree empire has not attempted any further advances."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, having not been aware that Asgard had gotten involved in that at all, "Speaking of your father¡­" He said quietly, not wanting to discuss the Kree too much in front of Garret and Sitwell, who''d both make Pierce wonder, once he got their reports - if he showed too much knowledge - knowledge that wasn''t in SHIELD files on the incident.


    "There are certain myths¡­ Here on Earth, regarding Asgard. Regarding Odin." He continued carefully, constantly editing his words before he spoke, careful to not go too far, "Of Hela, his firstborn, who he conquered the nine realms with. Hela and her undead army, Hela the goddess of death that Odin banished forever, tied to his lifeforce."


    Thor looked confused, "There is no Hela, I am the firstborn child of Odin." He said, some pride leaking through.


    Justin didn''t want to push too far on this, but he also didn''t want to leave this to canon, didn''t want to leave Odin to continue on with his - quite frankly - retarded decisions. "It might be worth talking to your father, or your mother, about this. Considering your own banishment¡­ It does ring true to some extent." He said cautiously, not wanting to come off too strong.


    He was just planting a seed.


    Thor pursed his lips, before nodding once, looking slightly disbelieving still.


    "Thank you, Prince Thor, at the very least, your family being more open could only benefit you, and Asgard as a whole." Justin insinuated, leaving it at that, before moving on, "As for your stay here¡­"


    Justin leaned in again, his tone softer. "Thor, I understand what it''s like to carry the burden of responsibility and the weight of a world on your shoulders. To have others depend on you and to face challenges that seem insurmountable. But we can''t do it alone, never alone. We need allies, people we can trust."


    Justin held his gaze, believe me you oaf, I''m helping you here, just get with the program, he mentally forced towards the man, hoping he''d done enough to at least create a rapport with the man.


    After he left Earth, Justin couldn''t care less if he was a friend or simply just not an enemy. He just needed to be cordial enough to trust Justin enough to actually push Odin for answers after Loki would fall.


    Ideally the whole Hela bullshit could be stopped before it happened. Asgard as a shield for Earth was too useful to casually disregard. Only when Earth was stronger then the aliens would Justin allow that relationship to end.


    Thor''s gaze met Justin''s, a flicker of hope igniting in his eyes. "You speak true, Justin Hammer. But how can I trust you when your own kind seeks to imprison me, ridicule me?" He challenged.


    Justin sighed, glancing at the mirror behind which Sitwell and Garrett were undoubtedly watching. "Not everyone here sees the bigger picture. But I do, and if you pardon the pun - I wield the bigger hammer in this situation - I believe you when you say you''re from Asgard. I want to help you prove your worth and reclaim your power, for both our realms sake."


    Thor studied Justin for a long moment before nodding slowly. "Very well. I will place my trust in you, Justin Hammer. But know this, if you betray me, you will face the wrath of Asgard."


    Justin nodded, accepting the unspoken threat, not really that bothered by it. "I understand. Let''s work together to find a way to help you." The sooner you''re gone and cleaning up your own backyard, the better¡­


    "Perhaps it''s a sign¡­" Thor muttered wistfully, "I wish to regain the loyalty of my hammer, and a man named Hammer has arrived to assist me."


    "It likely is, symbolism like that is powerful." Justin agreed. It was stupid, but he saw no reason in disagreeing with something that made Thor more likely to listen to him.


    Especially if Loki would still choose to arrive at some point in projection form to tell Thor his father had died.


    "I will arrange for better accomodation for you, Prince Thor, please have patience." He said, rising up, Thor rising as well to offer his hand, Justin grabbing it, only to have Thor grasp his entire arm, shaking it vigorously.


    "Tarry not, I grow tired of this small enclosure." He said, his face more open now that he''d decided Justin was on his side.


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    "I will see you soon." Justin agreed, glad that he had so much practice in faking his expression, because smiling at this fool was really getting rather irritating.


    As Justin left the interrogation room, he felt a sense of accomplishment. He hadn''t revealed much to HYDRA, and he''d managed to lower Thor''s suspicions easily, proving his wariness had only ever been skin deep.


    In what little time they''d have left, he''d make sure to continue to feed Thor myths, even if he made them up himself, to make the man push his father, or go to his mother. Anything to prevent the idiot ball Asgard would otherwise hold for the last few years of its existence.


    Garrett approached him immediately, Phantazia joining them as well. The agent''s expression was unreadable. "Well, Hammer, looks like you managed to get through to him somewhat, without actually gaining anything valuable in regards to information." He drawled sarcastically.


    Justin smirked, "I got what I needed, give it a few hours, then release him in my care."


    Garrett''s eyes narrowed, "I ain''t doing that." He said bluntly. "If what you say is true, he''s an alien with a significant threat factor."


    "He''s human right now." Justin said blithely, beginning to walk to exit the building, giving Garrett the choice to drop it, or catch up to keep arguing.


    "You''re not in the chain of command, you wanna order me around, go get the council to put you in charge, being on the council doesn''t give you operation command." Garrett growled, hands clenched into fists.


    Justin stopped, smiling as he stepped into Garret''s personal space. "Do as I say, Garrett." He said pleasantly.


    Garrett scoffed, the smile back on his face, even as his eyes burned, "Not going to happen, Hammer, here I''m the boss, you want me to back down, then get my boss to call me."


    "Phantazia, cut him down to size." Justin ordered mildly, watching Garret with a placid expression on his face, not allowing his anger to show.


    He could deal with the likes of Stark or Frost being annoyances, could deal with the likes of Shaw and Selene being threats.


    He would not allow little pissants attempt to lord over him like they mattered!


    She didn''t even hesitate, a flex of her power forcing Garretts immediate defensive reaction to fail as she made his nerves misfire, with a flash of steel, both the ligaments in the back of his legs were cut, forcing the man down on his knees.


    Garret made no noise, just immediately grasping for his sidearm, agents across the area grabbing their own weapons, only for Phantazia to wag a finger mockingly, all the weapons malfunctioning.


    Domino, now the only one wielding a gun, teasingly waved it at the agents, who immediately stopped in place. "Good puppies, if you roll over you''ll get a treat." She said with a shit eating grin.


    Justin looked down at the crippled agent, sneering, "You will do as you''re told." He said coldly, before looking across to the agents in the room, "You all will." He patted Garret on the cheek, "You all seem to forget who I am. Call the police, I own them. Call the politicians, I own them. Call your bosses, I own them. In no world are any of you worth enough that your bosses, spouses, friends, neighbors, congressmen, or whatever or whoever you care to mention - will choose to piss me off, to save you."


    "Grab some Panacea, I know SHIELD has some, it won''t be ideal without the cradle, but for your little cuts. It should do." He said uncaringly to Garret, the agents all watching him, all keeping their hands away from anywhere that could be misconstrued as a weapon. They all understood perfectly. "Release Thor to me in¡­ Oh let''s say three hours. Then stay away unless called for. I call the shots here. Or I will simply remove you all from the equation and do it anyway. Is that understood?"


    There was only silence, and Justin sighed, looking down at Garrett, "Phantazia, cut a finger or two off, it seems they still don''t understand." He ordered.


    "Understood!" Garret growled out, slightly pale, even as he stared up in absolute hatred.


    Justin didn''t care. In no world was Garrett or Sitwell leaving this town alive anyway.


    But with how confrontational the agent had been, Justin didn''t trust them to not fuck everything up, so it came to this.


    He''d owe Pierce a favor after this no doubt. Oh well, it''s still worth it. He thought.


    It''s not like it overly mattered if they all realized fully how dangerous he actually was. Not that murdering a few HYDRA agents and whatever small amount of SHIELD agents on site constituted something dangerous anyway. It was small potatoes.


    It was about goddamn time he let loose a little, actually.


    "This is still a mistake¡­" Garrett ground out, as Justin began walking away.


    Justin shrugged uncaringly. "Garrett, sometimes the only way to move forward is to take a leap of faith." He said, wondering if the other man truly understood what was going on yet.


    Garrett snorted, his skepticism returning. "Just don''t leap too far, Hammer. You might not like where you land." He said threateningly.


    Someone should tell the man that when one is kneeling on the ground, one does not come off as very threatening. No matter. He was a dead man walking. Justin didn''t even bother replying, just walking out with Domino and Phantazia following.


    <hr>


    Justin adjusted his suit as he made his way to the lobby of the building where Thor was being held, feeling a little hot under the collar after getting to loosen up a little for once. The fluorescent lights cast a sterile glow on the polished floors, as he approached the waiting area. As he''d suspected, he saw Jane Foster, Erik Selvig, and Darcy Lewis waiting anxiously. Jane''s eyes lit up with a mix of excitement and apprehension as she saw him.


    All of them got up from where they were sitting immediately, Dr Foster almost painfully thirsty as she approached, wringing her hands.


    "Thor''s not even that good looking." He muttered.


    Domino barked a mocking laugh, even as Phantazia replied with a dry, "He is, how do you say it? Prime beef."


    Justin refused to answer that. Betrayed by his own bodyguards like that, without any hesitation¡­ Instead he stepped forward to greet the two scientists and their snarky intern.


    "I am glad I caught you here, nice to meet you all again," Justin greeted them, his tone professional but warm. "I wanted to discuss a few things that might interest you."


    Jane folded her arms, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Where''s Thor? Is he alright?"


    One track mind, this one. Justin wanted to roll his eyes, but he had a part to play here, and it wouldn''t do to make Dr Foster too prickly.


    Justin smiled reassuringly. "Thor is fine, Dr Foster. He''s just being... Debriefed. Now, let''s talk about something important. You''ve witnessed something extraordinary, and I believe your research into wormholes and interdimensional travel is crucial. I''m here to offer you funding to continue your work." He flashed a brighter smile, "Hammer industries is the best, and we have more money than anyone else, you''d be well taken care of."


    "Wait! You believe it''s all real? Asgard, all of it?" Jane whisper-shouted, before blushing, "T-Thor being a god?" She added, eyes bright.


    "Definitely hung like one¡­" Darcy muttered, nudging Jane''s side.


    Jane''s eyes narrowed, as she completely forgot Justin was there, immediately beginning to argue with her intern, "Excuse me! And how would you know that!? What did you do, Darcy?"


    She smiled sweetly, "Showed him how to operate the shower, apparently he didn''t realize he''s supposed to wait for me to leave to get naked." She sighed, a hand to her cheek, "Primo beef, no wonder if he''s really a god¡­"


    "D-Darcy!" Jane protested, sounding very¡­ Disappointed?


    Darcy immediately jumped on it, "Oh? Wishing you''d seen it? I can describe it if you want?" The playful smile on her face depicted that she knew exactly what she was doing. She started moving her hands apart, when Jane squeaked and grabbed them to prevent her from doing so.


    Justin cleared his throat, making Jane jump slightly, as if just remembering that yes, she was just in the middle of speaking to the most powerful man in the world before she started obsessing about Thor''s dick.


    This was one of the biggest brains of their time?


    "Yes, I believe he is indeed from Asgard, and who he says he is, and that he did arrive here exactly as you think he did, which makes your research valuable to me." Justin said with a charming smile.


    Erik Selvig raised a disbelieving eyebrow. "Funding from Hammer Industries? What''s the catch?" He asked, going right past the alien question and right to what was important - the money.


    Justin could respect that. He leaned in slightly, focusing on the elder scientist, "No catch, Dr Selvig. I just want to ensure that your research continues uninterrupted and that we all benefit from what you discover. Given the nature of recent events, it''s clear that we''re dealing with something beyond our usual scope."


    Jane''s interest was definitely piqued, she''d always worked on a shoestring budget, he knew, but she remained wary. "And what do you get out of this, Mr Hammer?"


    Justin chuckled softly. "I get access to your findings which could get us to the stars, and in return, you get the resources you need. It''s a mutually beneficial arrangement. Plus, there''s the matter of the alien. Only those working with Hammer Industries would have direct access to him and any other... Extraterrestrial entities at the moment." He smiled smugly, "He will be in my care, for now."


    Only he knew Thor would be gone within days. Maybe even by tomorrow. So this bait dangling in front of the thirsty Dr Foster would cost him nothing, and gain him everything.


    Jane bristled at the term he''d used however. "He''s not just some ''alien'' He''s Thor." She snapped.


    Movie logic in the real world, it must be¡­ How else are both of these idiots so attached after less than twenty four hours? He wondered.


    Justin raised his hands in a placating gesture. "Of course, Dr Foster. I didn''t mean any disrespect. Thor is clearly significant, and having you close to him as the woman who initiated first contact would be advantageous for all parties involved."


    Mostly me at this point.


    Jane hesitated, her eyes flicking to the contracts, already prepared, that Phantazia offered with one hand - standard contracts, since he hadn''t decided until just recently to recruit them. Before she could respond, Erik pulled her aside, speaking in hushed tones. They argued quietly, Erik''s voice rising occasionally in protest while Jane''s responses were more measured but equally passionate.


    Dr Selvig was obviously wiser than the thirsty astrophysicist. And was likely telling her about taking candy from strangers right about now.


    Justin turned to Darcy, who had been watching the exchange with an amused expression. "And what about you, Miss Lewis? How do you feel about all this?" He asked, lacking anything better to do while he waited for them to agree to the only sensible option.


    Dr Foster would work well with Hope, he thought. Hope wasn''t very fond of Cho or Hansen when they''d met. Foster might be more her speed.


    Darcy grinned, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Oh, I''m just here for the snacks and the sci-fi science talk. But, you know, speaking of interests... I saw that ''funtime'' video of yours. What''s a gal gotta do to get some of that?"


    Justin was momentarily taken aback, his polished demeanor faltering slightly. "Well, that''s... Unexpected."


    Darcy leaned in, her grin widening. "Come on, Mister Hammer, sir. I''ve always wondered if billionaires really have silver tongues. You should just prove it." She winked exaggeratedly at him, and he wasn''t sure whether he should take her seriously or not.


    Justin cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure. "You''re very... Upfront, Miss Lewis. Why so forward?"


    How on earth did Thor end up with Jane if Darcy is this¡­ Open. Honestly the two of them seem a better fit.


    Darcy shrugged casually. "I live in the moment. I''m not going to get many chances to pal around with billionaires, so why not shoot my shot, you know?" She looked thoughtful for a moment, tapping her lips with a finger, "Plus if Jane is going for a god, the least I could do is go for the ruler of Earth, yeah?"


    Justin wasn''t sure what to make of her, but he did like how she kept understanding his proper place above them all. It was an attractive quality.


    Before Justin could respond, Domino interjected with a smirk. "I really like this one, Justin. You should keep her."


    Darcy eyed Domino appreciatively. "I''m straight for now, but get enough daiquiris in me, and I can get flexible." She said, giving the amused Domino a fist bump, even as Phantazia slowly put her face in her hands.


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head. "You certainly know how to make an impression, Miss Lewis." He admitted, amused by her irreverent attitude. Any anger from the goons he''d had to deal with sloughed right off him as he took her in with renewed interest.


    Unlike the super powered people he tended to end up around. She was a ''normal'' woman, with curves and the nerdy girl next door look, with none of the impossible waist and fitness and such that powered women seemed to come with as standard.


    Darcy winked at him, "That''s the idea, sir Hammer. So, about that silver tongue...?" She trailed off, bouncing on her heels.


    Justin was saved from responding by Jane and Erik returning, their expressions a mix of resolution and frustration.


    Jane spoke first, her tone firm. "We''ll consider your offer, Mr.Hammer. But I want assurances that Thor will be treated with respect and that our research will remain ours." She managed to say, and he immediately clocked onto what was her words, and which belonged to Dr Selvig.


    Justin nodded, pleased with the progress. Even half an in would do, once Thor disappeared. He''d get them to sign on, he was sure. "Absolutely, Dr Foster. Your terms are acceptable. I''ll have my legal team draft an agreement that ensures your autonomy and the respect Thor deserves." The second part won''t matter anyway.


    Erik still looked skeptical but didn''t object further. Jane glanced at Darcy, who was still smiling playfully at Justin, and sighed. "Darcy, let''s go. We need to talk about this further."


    Darcy gave Justin a mock salute. "Catch you later, sir Hammer. Don''t forget about that silver tongue of yours, can''t keep a gal wondering, it''s not proper."


    "DARCY, NOW!" Jane blustered, dragging her intern and friend away, Darcy just laughing softly.


    This girl¡­ She either has no fear, or is just a complete troll¡­


    As the three walked away, or in the case of the intern - was dragged away. Justin turned to Domino, shaking his head with a bemused smile. "That woman is something else."


    Domino laughed. "She''s got spirit. You could use someone like that around."


    Phantazia looked aghast at the idea, "Please sir, don''t think with your dick, we do not need another Domino around!"


    "Hurtful." Domino snorted, playfully punching Phantazia''s shoulder.


    Her eyes narrowed, "I will loosen the muscles that control your bladder!" She said shortly, lifting one hand threateningly.


    Domino immediately backed off.


    Justin chuckled, this is why I missed you Eileen, you do control Domino far better than I do.


    "I doubt she''d be a permanent addition," He mused, "She''s too tied to Dr Foster."


    Phantazia sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "I''m on Thor watching duty tonight then, I do not need to be near that mess."


    Justin didn''t intend to talk with Thor again today, so it suited him fine to let the man do whatever with Phantazia keeping an eye out.


    Domino smirked, "Oh, leaving me to have my eyes violated are you? How cruel!" She said dramatically, a hand to her heart.


    "You could always wait outside, you voyeur."


    "My job requires me to be close."


    "Not that close!"


    "Yuuup!"


    "You make me want to die."


    "You love me!"


    "Girls¡­"


    "She started it!"/"She started it!"


    <hr>


    Later that night, Justin stood in his frankly below standards hotel room - for some reason this small town didn''t have five star hotels¡­ He was dressed in a luxurious set of deep burgundy silk pajamas. The fabric clung to his well-toned frame, accentuating his lean, athletic build. His hair was perfectly styled, and his face bore a relaxed but expectant expression as he sipped a glass of scotch.


    Presentation was everything, even in a situation where he really couldn''t lose anyway.


    The door opened, and Domino led Darcy into the room. Darcy''s eyes scanned the space, taking in the surroundings before landing on Justin. She raised an eyebrow, her lips curling into a smirk. "Silk pajamas, huh?" she said, her tone dripping with anticipation. "I would''ve preferred leather or latex¡­" She sniffed, lifting her face faux haughtily, "But you''ll do." She waved a hand like she was saying, carry on, only a hint of a tremor showing anything but confidence.


    So even this ballsy woman got some nerves once the chips were actually down, it seemed. Justin chuckled, setting his glass down. "I guess I could''ve gone with something more dramatic, but comfort won out."


    Darcy sauntered further into the room, her eyes unabashedly raking over Justin. "Comfort, huh? We''ll see how comfortable you are by the end of the night." She said throatily.


    Domino burst out giggling, obviously finding Darcy''s bluntness hilarious. She walked over behind Darcy and gave her a gentle caress through her hair landing on her cheek. "You should look me up later, instead of Justin," She teased. "You''re definitely something."


    Justin was at least 70 percent sure she was joking. Maybe.


    Darcy cheekily shook her head. "Not drunk enough gorgeous. Besides, if I was just going to go the sapphic route, it would totally be Jane first. I called dibs." She said matter of factly.


    Justin blinked, momentarily taken aback. "Really?" I wouldn''t mind seeing that!


    Darcy shrugged nonchalantly. "Yeah, we got really drunk once and kissed. Jane made me promise we''d never speak about it, but I made her swear in return that if she ever went all cray cray for juicy peaches, I had dibs first. And since Jane agreed, I have forever dibs, even if she doesn''t remember any of it."


    Justin''s disbelief turned to curiosity. "You actually made her promise that?"


    Darcy nodded, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Yep. We were at this party, and we both had way way too much to drink, I might have made her go because she needed some actual life in her life, you know? One thing led to another, and suddenly we were kissing in the middle of the dance floor. Jane was mortified afterward, but I thought it was hilarious. So, I made her swear that if she ever decided to switch teams, I''d be her first pick."


    Domino sighed dramatically. "That''s a shame." She eyed Darcy over, "I prefer men, there''s no doubt about it, but you''ve got some ass¡­"


    Darcy giggled and winked at Domino. "Buy me enough drinks and I''d forget all about the dibs, but for now, butt out. I have a reenactment of a hot video to enact." She said, poking Domino''s nose with one finger.


    Domino shook her head, amused, even as she playfully snapped at the finger with her teeth. "I don''t leave the room. Bodyguard stuff."


    Darcy raised an eyebrow, her grin widening. "Kinky. I can work with it, but you owe me drinks tomorrow night." She said, her voice huskier for a moment.


    Justin, feeling slightly put out, cleared his throat. "I''m still here, you know."


    At least he was fairly more certain about Domino''s preferences now. Even if he was a bit put out she was practically trying to cockblock him.


    Darcy turned to him, her eyes glinting with mischief. "If you wanted my attention, you should''ve taken your pants off instead of just watching us chatter." She fired, completely unrepentant.


    Domino broke out laughing, "Oh, my¡­ Drinks are on me tomorrow, I definitely need more of this in my life."


    Justin couldn''t help but laugh as well, shaking his head in amused disbelief, "You certainly know what you want, Darcy." He complimented her.


    It took a lot for people to be this honest with themselves and others, he could respect the confidence and self evaluation needed to become this.


    She sauntered over to him, her eyes locked on his. "So, Mr Hammer, are you just going to stand there, or are you going to show me why billionaires have all the fun?"


    Justin set down his glass of scotch and met her gaze. "I suppose I could make an exception for you, Darcy."


    Usually women chased him, it was actually somewhat interesting to have someone so plainly state to him he needed to impress.


    Darcy chuckled, leaning in closer. "Good. Because I''ve got high expectations."


    Domino watched the exchange with a bemused smile, leaning against the wall with her arms crossed. "This should be interesting."


    Darcy turned to Domino, giving her a playful wink. "Feel free to take notes."


    Justin, regaining his composure, gestured to the plush seating area. "Shall we sit and get more comfortable?"


    Darcy shrugged. "Sure, why not? But don''t think sitting down means I''m not still expecting a show." She said sternly, wagging a finger at him.


    As they moved to the seating area, Justin couldn''t help but marvel at Darcy''s boldness. She was unlike any normal woman he had ever encountered - fearless, playful, and completely unapologetic about anything.


    Domino stayed by the wall, her eyes twinkling with amusement - the depraved voyeur. "Don''t mind me. Just here to make sure things don''t get too wild." She quipped.


    Darcy shot her a cheeky grin. "Wild? Who, me? I wouldn''t dream of it." She tossed her hair, "Feel free to spank me if I''m being bad¡­"


    Justin leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving Darcy''s, fascinated by her gumption. "You certainly keep things interesting, Darcy." He mumbled.


    She tilted her head, studying him back. "Interesting is good. Keeps people on their toes. Speaking of which, you''ve got some pretty big shoes to fill, Mr Hammer." She said coyly.


    Justin raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And why''s that?" His own playful smile blossomed onto his face.


    Darcy''s eyes sparkled with lust, darkening her eyes. "Because I''ve seen that video remember, and I''ve got to say, you''ve set the bar pretty high."


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head. "I''ll do my best not to disappoint."


    Darcy leaned in, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper. "You better not." Only a slight tremble to her voice again revealed she was not quite as confident as she displayed.


    "I never fail to deliver." He promised, standing up, looming over her.


    Darcy, ever the provocateur, gave Justin one last playful wink. "Alright, Mr Hammer, time to see if you really can live up to the hype."


    As Justin got ready to deliver, he suddenly realized that while his new superhuman abilities seemed to be fully able to differentiate between a doorknob, or a handshake - and a fist fight.


    He wasn''t sure if it would hold back in the throes of passion. Something that could have disastrous consequences.


    He was a man of his word. So Darcy would see god tonight, there was no doubt about that.


    But to his frustration, he would not be able to seek the release he wished, not all of it anyway.


    There were downsides to being superhuman after all, it seemed. The way Darcy pouted when he explained it was adorable though.


    Domino stop fucking laughing at me!!


    <hr>


    Cairo, Egypt.


    Hope Van Dyne stepped out of the meeting room, her mind buzzing with the details of her discussion with Sunil Bakshi, Justin''s right hand man. She adjusted her tailored blazer, the deep blue fabric accentuating her sharp features and confident demeanor. Her dark hair was styled in a sleek bob, perfectly framing her face.


    She''d learned young that as a woman, you could never look like you had a hair out of place, like you missed a step. You could never look weak. Not in the shark infested waters of business, nor the slog through swamp infested waters that the world called politics.


    As she made her way through the corridor, Hope nearly collided with Yelena, immediately eyeing the woman skeptically, because the other woman was never that distracted or ungraceful.


    Yelena, with her blonde hair pulled back into a tight ponytail, was dressed in a casual down to earth ensemble - a black leather jacket over a white tank top, paired with dark jeans and combat boots. Her eyes were best described as spicy, as she smiled at Hope.


    Hope was not unaware of the situation. She knew the other woman was desperately in love with Justin. For all that she was what she was - she wore her heart on her sleeve in this instance.


    "Hope, fancy running into you here," Yelena said, her Russian accent adding a melodic lilt to her words. "How was your meeting with Bakshi?" She asked politely.


    Hope offered an equally polite smile back. Small talk was business 101. "Productive. We''re making good progress on the space program."


    They were certainly working faster than NASA, hail the absence of red tape. If business could be done this quick in the states, why, the government might actually sometimes get something done, she thought cynically.


    Justin might be rubbing off on her a mite more than she''d believed. She briefly closed her eyes, as did Domino, or my mind would not have immediately gone there¡­


    Yelena nodded, then her eyes twinkled with a hint of something more. "It''s been a long day. How about we go for a drink? There''s a nice bar nearby. My treat." She offered.


    Hope considered the invitation for a moment, her analytical mind quickly deducing that this was about more than just a casual drink. Yelena was rarely this friendly, and surely she wouldn''t do this without an ulterior motive. "Sure, why not? Lead the way." She agreed.


    She wasn''t one for previcarating needlessly. It was better to air this all out now, while Justin wasn''t here to see them. Not that she had any such intentions on him, of course.


    They left the compound and made their way to a nearby bar. The establishment was an upscale yet cozy venue, with dim lighting and plush seating - obviously intended for tourists, not the locals. The walls were adorned with eclectic artwork, and a smooth jazz tune played softly in the background. Yelena led them to a quiet corner, away from prying eyes and ears.


    Hope ordered a martini, while Yelena opted for a vodka tonic. As the drinks arrived, Hope took a moment to study Yelena, noting her confident posture and the calculating look in her eyes. Yelena took a sip of her drink and leaned back, her expression casual. Too casual.


    The kind of casualness someone affects when they''re upset.


    So this will be interesting¡­ She couldn''t help but think, glad she had the Wasp suit on underneath, just in case.


    "So, Hope, how are things with you and Justin?" Yelena asked, her tone light but with a hint of underlying curiosity. And a thread of anger running underneath it all.


    So it is an interrogation/back off discussion, as I thought.


    Hope smiled, taking a sip of her martini. "We''re good friends. He values my input and appreciates me for who I am, like friends do." She stressed intently.


    Yelena nodded slowly, her eyes never leaving Hope''s. "Just good friends, huh? No other feelings there?" She asked, idly. Her eyes were not matching with her body language.


    For a Black Widow that was remarkably unsubtle, Hope couldn''t help but note. She''s really off her game, love can do silly things, I suppose.


    Thankfully she didn''t have time for anything like that. It was a complication she didn''t need.


    Hope ended up chuckling softly, at Yelena''s obvious intentions. She knew this was a test, but she played along. "Justin is... Justin. He''s charming, ambitious, and always thinking ten steps ahead - caring without being overbearing, handsome and all too smug at times. But no, we''re just friends."


    Yelena raised an eyebrow, her smile turning sly. "Are you sure about that? Justin has a way of making women fall for him." She murmured, her eyes briefly flicking away, before they returned, ice hidden behind the layers of friendliness she exuded.


    Hope leaned in slightly, her own gaze piercing. "And you? What''s your experience with Justin? Is he as good as the rumors say?" She said playfully, intending to turn this around, to throw Yelena off this ridiculous game.


    Personally, she didn''t think Yelena was right for Justin at all. Too subservient. But as a friend, she wasn''t going to push on the subject. That didn''t mean she''d take it laying down, this ridiculous hands off my man routine.


    Yelena was taken aback for a moment, not expecting Hope''s directness. But she quickly recovered, a smug grin spreading across her face. "Oh, he''s good. Very good. But you don''t need to hear that from me, and of course he only chooses the best¡­"


    Hope smirked languidly, ignoring the dig, leaning back in her seat. For now, Yelena had been averted, and Hope did have some slight curiosity in the subject matter, just¡­ Academically, really. "Just curious. I''ve heard things, you know, seen some of it. Thought I''d get the truth from someone who knows."


    Yelena''s eyes flashed with a mix of amusement and challenge. "You won''t get any complaints from me, he''s exquisite." Her eyes narrowed, "Or any gossip either..."


    Hope took another sip of her martini, her expression thoughtful. "Interesting. It''s always good to know what to expect from a partner, in any sense." She almost faltered, wait, no, I wanted to avoid her seeing me like that, why did I say that?


    Yelena''s smile faltered slightly, sensing Hope''s deeper meaning. "So, you''re not interested in Justin that way?" She asked again, a low growl in the back of her throat.


    Hope shook her head, her tone firm. Don''t go there again, "No. We''re just friends and business partners. I respect and care for him, and that''s where it ends."


    Even if he''s the only one I could even see myself dating¡­ Hope''s hand tightened around her glass, am I¡­ Have I been deluding myself?


    Yelena seemed to relax a bit, but there was still a hint of suspicion in her eyes. "Good. It''s always best to keep things professional."


    Hope raised her glass in a mock toast. "To professionalism, then."


    Yelena clinked her glass against Hope''s, a genuine smile finally breaking through. "To professionalism."


    As they continued to drink and chat, the initial tension began to dissipate as Hope made sure to reiterate she had no interest, not even sure herself if she was lying or not. They exchanged stories and experiences, each trying to outdo the other with tales of their misadventures - obviously Black Widow missions didn''t count. The bar''s ambiance, with its soft lighting and soothing music, provided a perfect backdrop for their conversation, as they finally started to relax a little.


    Hope couldn''t help but grudgingly admire Yelena''s confidence and the way she carried herself like she could take down anyone. Despite the subtle rivalry that she half didn''t want to admit to, there was some mutual respect between them. They were both strong, capable women navigating a world dominated by powerful men.


    There was some solidarity in that, some common ground that they finally found.


    Which included some light bitching about the impossible man that was Justin Hammer.


    Yelena groaned as she held another cold glass of alcohol to her forehead, "He gives me so many headaches, he''s so unpredictable, I never know what he''s going to do next." She pouted, "Or who¡­"


    Hope completely ignored the quiet muttered comments on how everything would work out if Domino would just woman up and join her. She didn''t want to go there - frankly she couldn''t see that pairing end well, at all.


    If she thought Yelena was unsuitable for Justin, Domino was just¡­ Oh god no. That would not work at all.


    She decided to not look deeper into why any woman she thought of, automatically was not good enough for her friend in her mind.


    Hope hummed thoughtfully after a moment, evaluating the best response to Yelena. "Justin''s vision is what sets him apart. Yes, he''s unpredictable, but that''s also what makes him effective. He thinks outside the box." She said, tapping a finger on her glass, "Although I admit it''s sometimes¡­ Frustrating."


    More like impossible, he does impossible things for breakfast, how am I supposed to keep up? It''s just unfair¡­ She inwardly groused, and how much have I had to drink?


    Yelena chuckled darkly, resting her chin on her hands, "Interesting. So you''re saying you''re not interested again? I''m not sure that''s what I''m hearing?"


    Hope''s lips curled into a sly smile. "I like working with people who challenge me. Keeps things interesting." She shrugged, keeping it casual by force, "Doesn''t mean anything more than that."


    Yelena nodded, her expression skeptical, but she left it alone without sticking a verbal knife in, likely due to the almost camaraderie they now shared in the art of bitching out Justin Hammer for the past hour or two. "I see. Well, I hope you know what you''re getting into with Justin if you do... He can be... Demanding, not anyone can handle that."


    Hope almost rolled her eyes, Yelena was being more playful now, but she still heard a lot of undertones of - mine!


    Her eyes sparkled with mischief, maybe it was all the drinks, but she decided she wasn''t going to just back off this time. "I can handle demanding. I''ve dealt with worse, in fact it''s a bit sexy, isn''t it? A man who knows what he wants and just takes it."


    Yelena grimaced, "And you were doing so well¡­" She complained, slamming back a drink."Right, that settles it. Competing for his heart it is. How about arm wrestling, bitch?" She set her elbow on the table, a fierce look on her face.


    "I''m not arm wrestling you. You''re a Black Widow." Hope rolled her eyes, already at a disadvantage since Yelena couldn''t even get tipsy. While she herself had drunk¡­ A little more than she probably should have.


    Especially around a woman who wanted her away from her man. Whoops. Where did your common sense go, Hope?


    "Darts then, it''s a bar, it has to have darts." Yelena insisted, pouting cutely when Hope refused.


    "We''re not competing." Hope reiterated, "Especially for a man. A man I''m not dating, I add." She really regretted teasing the woman now. They were actually getting along there for a minute, kind of.


    Yelena sighed, "Alright, no fight. But in the harem I''m in charge, okay?"


    Hope choked on her drink, spluttering and coughing, Yelena just sitting there like a bitch, not helping. "There is no harem!" She managed to hiss out.


    Yelena nodded sadly, "It''s that kind of attitude that ruins it." She agreed, drooping over her drink.


    "That''s not why there''s no harem!"


    "You''re right, you''re not fit to be a member, too¡­" Yelena looked down, "Flat."


    "It''s ON, bitch!" Oh, I''ve definitely had too much to drink¡­


    <hr>


    Early morning, Puente Antiguo, New Mexico.


    Justin couldn''t sleep, some of it was simple frustration, he had hardly gotten his own enough during the night.


    Although due to that fact, he''d practically driven Darcy into insanity, which he found he liked a lot more than he thought, go figure, he''s a giver too.


    His mind was stuck on Domino''s last comment before the woman went to her own bed.


    Do you want more Helen Cho''s Justin? Because this is how you Helen Cho a woman.


    He thought that was very unfair, Darcy never used her safeword, so it was purely on her if she went insane.


    He idly ran his fingers through her hair, the woman still absolutely out of it in his bed, practically dead to the world.


    Originally he had fully intended to send her back to Dr Foster, but in the state she was in now, he had made the decision to keep her around for cuddles - assuming that it would be annoying if Dr Foster checked up on her intern in her room and found her like this.


    Even missing was better, right?


    Probably wouldn''t be the first time Darcy snuck out all night, not considering how bold she was with him.


    College boys must have had no clue what to do with her.


    He wondered if this dalliance would increase or decrease the chances Dr Foster signed on. Surely she''d enjoy the funding, Darcy was likely to be very for it, that had to count for something.


    He didn''t really need her necessarily. But it felt like he should collect the set. Perhaps he should even get Stern, even if he wouldn''t be quite what he''d wanted, and he''d have to feel the disappointment every time he saw the man.


    Unless Bruce Banner could donate some blood to splash on the man''s forehead for him.


    His mood instantly turned sour, Bruce Banner had somehow escaped the team that watched him. Which he thought was fairly impossible. Which likely meant outside intervention. He''d gotten the report earlier while he''d been busy.


    Now who wanted a Hulk? And had the ability to get him to come quietly?


    His thoughts were interrupted, his eyes immediately flying up from his introspection when someone cleared their throat impatiently - in front of his bed!


    Motherfucking Loki smiled at him, "I don''t want to waste my time overly." He practically purred, eyes alight with malice. "You see I''m somewhat of an expert on the myths you people wrote down about us, and when I happened to pop in and check in on Thor, you had an interesting story to tell." His smile turned frosty, "So tell me mortal, in what book, what page, what author, did you come across that weirdly specific tale you tried to manipulate my brother with?"


    God damn Loki¡­. Justin thought, gritting his teeth. He always had to Loki any situation he was in, didn''t he?


    Time to outlie the liesmith¡­.


    No pressure.


    <hr>

 This is all kinds of Lokid

    <hr>


    Puente Antiguo, New Mexico.


    Justin''s fingers tightened slightly in Darcy''s hair, a calming anchor as he faced Loki. The room seemed to shrink around them, the morning light filtering through the curtains danced across Loki''s arrogant face.


    He didn''t feel threatened necessarily, more like¡­ Wary.


    Loki wouldn''t easily be able to truly harm him, but the harm he could do to his plans just by being himself? There was quite a high risk factor there.


    Loki''s eyes gleamed with malevolent curiosity, his smile a serpent''s promise. "You seem tense, mortal." He purred, leaning forward. "Surely, you did not expect me to ignore such an intriguing story." He waved a hand dismissively, scoffing, "Your myths are wrong of course, exaggerations because your feeble minds could not take in all that we were, there is no Baldr, I have not birthed Sleipnir nor Fenrir or Jormungar, nor Hela¡­" His eyes narrowed, a dangerous smile playing at his lips, "Alas, I do know of them, Hela is mentioned in your myths, but never in such a manner as you spoke of to fool that oaf Thor."


    He paced before the bed suddenly, cloak swishing behind him, almost a manic quality to his movements, "He''s easily fooled, of course, norns know I''ve run circles around him for centuries, but it still brings me to the question of why?" The last was hissed out, as Loki stopped haughtily before him, looking down at him, "What purpose could a lowly mortal such as you have to attempt to bring this story to the Allfather?"


    Justin kept his expression composed, though inwardly he cursed the trickster''s sudden appearance again, he was too unpredictable. Justin had a feeling even Loki didn''t know what Loki would do in most situations. "Ancient knowledge isn''t confined to books alone, Loki, at least I''m assuming you''re actually Loki¡­" He added, putting some hesitation in his voice, a raised eyebrow in query.


    At Loki''s irritated nod, he continued, "Some truths are whispered through time, passed down in ways that only the truly curious can uncover." He cocked his head, resting back against the headboard, one hand petting Darcy''s hair as he put on a mien of relaxation.


    Like there truly was no threat here at this moment.


    Loki''s smile widened, but his eyes grew colder. He really had quite the expressive face for a liesmith. "Is that so? And you, a mortal businessman, have somehow stumbled upon secrets that even Asgardians do not speak of? How fortuitous. Pray, indulge me. Where did you hear of Hela, the so-called firstborn of Odin?"


    Justin knew he had to tread carefully. "I have resources beyond your imagination of what a mere mortal can do, Loki. Some of these resources led me to the Ancient One - I''m assuming you''re aware of who she is?"


    Ideally he''d be a mystery Loki wanted to solve later, and he''d leave things alone for now - if not believing his words, not exactly disbelieving it all either. And by the time this debacle was done, he''d be falling, and wouldn''t be Justin''s problem for quite some time.


    Loki looked even more irritated, "Of course." He said haughtily, "The fact you do, is surprising, and almost lending you some credence." He acknowledged, before smirking cruelly, "If it wasn''t obvious you''re hiding the real truth. You can not lie to me, Justin Hammer!"


    With the thunderous voice he''d used there, Justin was glad Darcy had been so wrung out until she was barely holding onto her last sliver of sanity and energy - because even with that noise, she didn''t even twitch in the bed, still deeply out of it.


    Justin mildly replied back, "I wouldn''t be foolish enough to lie against the liesmith himself, I am of course not telling the full truth, I have confidences to keep, you understand, but in no way could I outlie the god of cunning and lies."


    Loki laughed coldly, "Flattery will avail you nothing, mortal." He said, not even appearing to notice how he was preening slightly.


    Justin just stared at him blandly, his glasses able to confirm to him that Loki was not here in person. He could hardly tell the projection apart from the real thing, but the monitors in his glasses could detect no heat nor sound from Loki''s general vicinity. "It''s not flattery, it''s simple facts, all the myths agree on this at least." He said, because if Loki was going to be dissuaded by something so simple, he''d be a fool not to utilize it.


    Loki''s eyes flashed with amusement, even as his lips twisted in mockery, "An amusing attempt mortal, but I''m not as easy as the mortal women who flutter at the smallest amount of honey in their ears. You will not bed me, no matter the flattery."


    Justin really hadn''t intended to. Did Loki really get so little respect and compliments he immediately thought Justin was trying to sleep with him? All the more reason to fuck Odin''s day up by having him confronted with the Hela bullshit, what a crapsack of a father. "My apologies, it had not been my intent." He said dryly.


    At least it had all somewhat derailed the ''interrogation'', distracting Loki.


    "I grow weary of your pathetic attempts at misdirection, reveal your source of this¡­ Firstborn of the Allfather¡­" He demanded imperiously.


    Or not.


    Justin sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose, "The Ancient One herself lies behind my knowledge." He lied, mentally sending an email through his link to his glasses to the Ancient One, detailing some of this little talk just in case - especially if Odin would check later¡­ "She holds many secrets, as I''m sure you''re aware. In a conversation with her, Hela''s name surfaced. A small mention, almost an afterthought, yet it piqued my interest in more."


    The Ancient One would play ball if for whatever reason Loki sought her out, he was almost certain. She was certainly enough of a troll to enjoy such subterfuge. Although it likely meant she''d have her own questions for him. It was better than Loki, either way. Hopefully Odin wouldn''t have time to question Loki either, and Thor knew nothing of this talk, so he should be covering all his bases.


    Loki''s eyes narrowed, a flicker of surprise quickly masked. "The Ancient One told you this, you claim? She is indeed a keeper of many arcane secrets, for a mortal. But why would she reveal such a detail to you, of all people?"


    "My curiosity in old myths entertained her, perhaps," Justin replied smoothly, sitting up a little straighter. "Or maybe she saw the benefit in enlightening someone about Asgard and the wider universe who could handle such knowledge responsibly. Unlike others, who might use it for personal gain or destruction."


    Loki''s laugh was sharp, a mocking sound that grated against Justin''s nerves. "Oh, you mortals and your self-importance¡­ You have no place in the wider universe! Tell me, what else did the Ancient One reveal? Did she regale you with bedtime stories of Asgard''s dark past?" He mocked, a sneer on his lips.


    Justin leaned back slightly, adopting a more casual posture again. "Not quite. She merely hinted at Hela''s existence. My own research - with her permission - of some of her orders repositories of knowledge, filled in some gaps. Stories buried deep within the Nordic myths, fragments that speak of a fierce warrior, a conqueror. Someone Odin would rather the nine realms forget."


    He shook his head, explaining further, lying further, "All in all it was barely a paragraph, mentioning the firstborn daughter who conquered the nine realms for him, only to be banished, tied to his lifeforce, hungering for her return, and her revenge." He shrugged lightly, "I found it suspicious enough that it was only mentioned behind the protected wards of the Ancient One, which gave the whole erase history part of it some credence - you''d know better if Odin was the kind of man to banish his child and erase all knowledge of her¡­"


    Considering they were having this conversation due to the banishment of Thor, the point was a lot more poignant. Also this was literally the perfect time in the timeline to disparage Odin''s parenting in front of Loki.


    He''d be ready to believe it already, perhaps enough to not push deeper, or question things.


    Loki''s expression turned calculating, his eyes probing Justin''s, at least not immediately disregarding the information, likely because Justin had put the source as the Ancient One. "And why, pray tell, would you share such information with Thor? What do you gain from sowing seeds of doubt and discord among Asgard''s royalty?"


    Justin met Loki''s gaze evenly, masking the tumult of thoughts racing through his mind. He wasn''t sure if Loki believed him or not, but it could be bad if Asgard came to have the belief he was trying to institute a coup or something with this knowledge. "Thor is here, on Earth. His presence affects us all. If there are hidden truths that could impact our world, I believe it''s in everyone''s interest to bring them to light. Asgardian politics and secrets have a way of spilling over into our realm after all, or we wouldn''t have so many myths..."


    Loki''s lips curled into a predatory smile. "You are a sly one, Hammer. But I see through your ploys. You seek to manipulate Thor, to use him for your own ends. What makes you think you can control a god?"


    Loki''s posture changed, the air around him thickening as his aura became more threatening, green smoke wafting off the fingers of his right hand as he smirked maliciously.


    Justin''s own smile was a mere twitch of the lips - the fact he knew Loki was only a projection helping him keep his cool. "Control is such a harsh word. Influence, perhaps. Guide. Thor is powerful, going by the myths, but having met him¡­ He is also frightfully naive. He needs someone who understands the intricacies of both our worlds to help him navigate this... Exile."


    Let Loki believe his interests lay in manipulating Thor for his own purposes on earth; it was a better outcome than believing he was interfering in Asgards business. Loki of course didn''t know Thor''s banishment was literally going to end within the day.


    If he would be here for years or decades, Justin''s viewpoints made more sense, just a businessman taking advantage. Nothing to see here.


    Loki''s eyes flashed with anger for a moment, then he regained his composure, his tone dripping with condescension. "And you believe you are that someone? A mortal with delusions of grandeur? Thor may be naive, but he is not easily led."


    Okay wow, he said that with a straight face¡­ Justin thought with bemusement.


    Thor was in fact incredibly easily led. Perhaps not later, but for now, he was in fact very simple.


    And hadn''t Loki literally been running circles around him for their entire lives?


    "I''m not looking to lead Thor in the manner you suggest," Justin replied calmly. "I''m looking to ensure that when he does return to Asgard, he does so with a clearer understanding of what his responsibilities entail to Earth, the mystery of Hela was a passing fancy to see if there was any truth behind it, minor in the face of ensuring Thor settles in well in our realm."


    Loki''s expression darkened, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. "You tread on dangerous ground, Hammer. You meddle in affairs far beyond your comprehension. What makes you think you can handle the consequences of your actions?"


    Justin''s eyes hardened. "I''ve faced challenges before, Loki. I''m not afraid of a little risk. But understand this - my primary concern is Earth''s safety. If that means uncovering uncomfortable truths, so be it." He patted Darcy''s head lightly, "I am only looking to the safety of Earth, that is all, if Hela is real or not is only a curiosity, not worth the effort if it''s going to have this kind of reaction."


    Of course, Justin had a feeling that at this point, Loki as well as Thor, would not forget about Hela and Odin, and would seek answers at some point.


    All the better.


    The sooner it was revealed, perhaps they could work out a way where Odin wouln''t just die and leave the problem to everyone else without any warning whatsoever.


    Loki''s smile returned, but it was devoid of warmth. "Very well. Play your games, mortal. But remember, you are dealing with forces that can crush you without a second thought. Pray you do not find yourself at the wrong end of Asgardian wrath."


    With that, Loki vanished as abruptly as he had appeared, leaving Justin alone with Darcy in the dimly lit room. He exhaled slowly, his mind racing through the implications of their conversation. Loki knew more than he let on, and he had a feeling he hadn''t quite succeeded in lying at times. Justin would need to tread even more carefully moving forward. The stakes had just been raised, and the game was far from over.


    The situation was going to be settled today, one way or another.


    Surely Loki wouldn''t be able to mess it up too much in one day¡­


    Justin rested his head back against the headboard, laughing to himself.


    What was he even saying?


    He called Sunil, his glasses flashing, speaking up the second the man answered, "Get the team together, get Kaecillius on standby to portal them all to my location at a minute''s notice."


    "And the Green Goblin, sir?" Sunil replied politely. Reminding him that they were already on partial standby for Osborn in the first place.


    "Will have to wait, or be left to Tony if Osborn does pick now of all times to actually show up." Justin groused, displeased that the matter hadn''t been resolved yet.


    "Do you want me to notify Stark of that, sir?" Sunil asked, "In the spirit of cooperation and such."


    Justin thought it over, before dismissing it with a shudder. "No." He simply told Sunil, his thoughts already seeing the worst case scenario.


    If they informed Tony that the team couldn''t assist with any Goblin sighting, he''d research why immediately.


    The last thing he needed in this mess he had on his hands was Iron Man swooping down into it.


    "Keep the team ready, I have a feeling today is going to be busy." He finished the call, getting out of bed.


    Loki¡­ You better not mess this all up for me¡­


    <hr>


    The breakfast buffet at the hotel was a simple but plentiful spread, offering an array of options from freshly baked pastries and assorted fruits to sizzling bacon and fluffy scrambled eggs. The dining area was bathed in the warm morning light, the glass windows offering a view of the town awakening to a new day.


    For a small hotel, it was actually quite nice, if not to a standard he''d gotten accustomed to.


    Justin, Domino, and Phantazia sat at a large table, strategically positioned to oversee the room. They were joined by Jane Foster, Erik Selvig, and Thor, whose towering presence made the table feel smaller. Justin casually sipped his coffee, taking in the rich aroma, while Thor eagerly attacked his plate, seemingly enchanted by Earth''s breakfast offerings.


    They''d had a chance to talk again this morning, and Justin''s careful prodding had shown that Thor in no way realized he had been manipulated, nor had he apparently been told the lie that his father was dead this time around - Loki never showing himself to him.


    A change, but a minor one, that hopefully wouldn''t derail Thor''s self sacrificial ways. He really didn''t want to have to put up with Thor for years if he didn''t reverse the banishment now.


    Not to mention the issue of Loki in that case.


    Jane''s eyes darted around the table, her brows furrowed in suspicion. "Where is Darcy?" she asked, her tone sharper than normal, as her hands flailed uselessly in the air for a moment. "I haven''t seen her all morning." Her gaze settled on Justin, an accusatory edge to her look.


    Before Justin could respond, Domino leaned in with a sweet, almost saccharine voice. "Oh, she''s a bit comatose," She said, her eyes twinkling mischievously, even as she licked her lips in a very particular manner.


    Domino, why are you like this? Justin thought, continuing with his coffee, just pretending that for once it was a calm, relaxing morning.


    Jane''s face turned red with anger. "What did you do to her?" She demanded, her voice rising, causing heads to turn in their direction. Thor''s fork paused mid-air, and he set it down, frowning.


    "What has happened to Lady Darcy?" Thor inquired, his tone serious and concerned.


    Justin sighed, putting his coffee down and focusing on his scrambled eggs. "Nothing you need to worry about, Thor," He murmured, hoping to defuse the situation. "She''s perfectly safe."


    But Domino, ever the provocateur, decided to elaborate. "Well, you see," She began, leaning back in her chair, eyes alight with mischief, "It''s a bit like the birds and the bees, but with a touch of BDSM." She shivered a little theatrically, "Or a lot of touch, we took really good care of her, scouts honor ~."


    Justin closed his eyes momentarily in exasperation, and mechanically took a bite of his eggs. If he just ignored them all, it was just like having a peaceful breakfast.


    "We?" Phantazia picked up on immediately, turning her head in Domino''s direction, brow furrowed, something Justin couldn''t decipher this early in the morning, in her gaze.


    Domino smiled, looking actually sheepish, "Slip of the tongue." She lied, cocking her head cutely, attempting some form of puppy dog eyes.


    No one at the table believed her. She didn''t pull off innocent very well.


    "I''m sure you slipped her some tongue alright¡­" Phantazia murmured irritably, jerking her head away from Domino, stabbing her breakfast sausage with gusto.


    Jane''s face paled, then flushed with embarrassment and fury. "What? You¡­ You¡­ Both!?" She stammered, unable to find the words, steam practically erupting from her.


    Thor''s frown deepened, his eyes narrowing at Justin. "Explain," he demanded, his voice a low rumble.


    It really was quite ridiculous how Thor had attached to them so quickly, did Asgardians imprint like animals?


    Justin rolled his eyes slightly, finally setting his fork down. "She''s fine, Thor. Just a bit tired after a¡­ Long night. She consented, if that''s what you''re worried about."


    Thor seemed to settle at that, going back to his food, uncaring now that it had been established Darcy was not in danger, or taken advantage of.


    Of course Justin could have lied, which Thor apparently hadn''t even imagined for a second. How quickly he made allies, wasn''t that long ago that Justin was looked upon with scorn and suspicion.


    Getting him out from SHIELD, housing and feeding him, was really enough, wasn''t it? He was like an overly large dog. Justin had a feeling if he threw a ball, Thor might actually chase it. He would have to resist the notion.


    Jane''s eyes flared with indignation. "Consent? You think that''s all there is to it? She''s my friend, and she deserves respect, not to be treated like some¡­ Some thing you can play with!"


    Justin felt a flare of annoyance, his dislike of Jane''s general stupidity with Thor expanding to new avenues - he couldn''t stand women who decided for other women based on their own morals. Darcy had come to him of her own free will, she had been fairly insistent actually.


    Domino shrugged, unfazed with Jane''s outrage. "Trust me, she had a good time. Better than good, actually." She smirked, "There''s a reason she isn''t up yet, I doubt her legs are up for it¡­"


    Jane opened her mouth to retort, but Erik placed a calming hand on her arm. "Jane, let''s not jump to conclusions. Darcy is an adult, and she can make her own choices."


    Jane looked between Erik and Justin, her anger simmering but contained. "Fine. But I want to see her as soon as possible." She muttered, crossing her arms almost petulantly. "I''ll believe it when Darcy says she''s okay."


    Justin was having second thoughts about recruiting her now. If only they hadn''t signed the contracts last night while he''d been¡­ Busy, with their intern. Oh well, not like I have to actually have anything to do with her, although hmm, if I want to see Darcy again¡­


    Perhaps he could lure her away with a better internship. Under him.


    Phantazia, who had been quietly observing the exchange, leaned closer to Justin. "Our security teams have spotted more Asgardians heading directly towards us." She murmured, hiding her mouth behind a hand. "SHIELD are mobilizing but keeping their distance."


    Good, like he''d ordered. It seemed Garrett and Sitwell did value their lives slightly. Enough to play ball for now anyway.


    Justin raised an eyebrow, outwardly calm, inwardly nervous that something would go wrong. "How many?" he asked, keeping his voice low.


    "Three men and one woman," Phantazia replied, her eyes scanning the room for any immediate threats, like Asgardians would just pop up from behind the plants or tables in the room.


    Thor''s ears perked up at the mention of more Asgardians, having somehow heard them despite being as quiet as they were. "Are you expecting company from Asgard, Thor?" Justin asked, his tone neutral, having noticed his attention. "Three men and a woman, to be specific."


    Domino began wolfing down her breakfast, like a woman perfectly aware everything was likely to go to shit soon and stocking up on calories in advance.


    "Dom!" Phantazia said with disgust, wrinkling her nose, she just smiled and winked, continuing to shovel the rest of her breakfast in.


    Thor''s face lit up with a broad smile as he realized after a few moments who was likely to come see him. "My friends! They must have come to aid me!" He stood up abruptly, nearly knocking over his chair in his excitement. "Lady Jane, forgive me," He said, placing a large hand on her shoulder. "I must go greet my friends."


    Jane watched him go with a mix of confusion and worry, her eyes following him until he disappeared from sight. Justin inwardly groaned, no matter what anyone says, she''s still smitten.


    Justin turned his attention back to Jane and Erik, trying to formulate it in a different way to get through to the thick headed scientist. "Dr. Foster, I understand your interest in Thor on a purely physical level, but you need to consider the reality of your situation," He said softly, trying to not come off as too annoyed, "Getting involved with an alien, especially one with such a vastly different lifespan and responsibilities, is¡­ Well, it''s insane."


    Thor would be better served in Asgard, making sure it didn''t go to hell, then down here trying to play house in a doomed relationship.


    Erik nodded, thankfully agreeing with Justin, his expression was serious as he addressed Jane. "Jane, you know deep down that he''s right. It would be like me trying to go to a Zoo and form a relationship with a chimpanzee. There can be no real connection beyond the physical. No future."


    Jane looked at Erik in shock, her mouth opening and closing as she searched for words. "Erik, that''s a terrible analogy!" She managed to splutter out.


    "It''s the truth, Jane," Erik insisted. "The differences are too great, there can be no commonality." He hesitated, before pushing on, "Jane, it''s purely carnal, this fascination of yours, it will only lead to you being hurt."


    Jane muttered something under her breath, her cheeks turning a deep shade of red. "I''m fine with a little carnal," She mumbled, immediately blushing furiously as she realized everyone heard her.


    Domino gave her a thumbs up, which seemed to infuriate her, and Justin sent his bodyguard a quelling look. He didn''t need any complications right now, not when Dr Selvig was actually helping him knock some sense into the woman.


    Hardly hired for more than a few hours, and he already deserved a raise.


    The doors to the dining area swung open soon after, and in strode Thor and the Warriors Three - Fandral, Hogun, and Volstagg - followed closely by Lady Sif. Their entrance was dramatic, their armor gleaming, their weapons at the ready. Thor was greeting them with hearty hugs and laughter, looking more pleased then he''d been since anytime Justin had seen him so far.


    "Thor, my friend!" Fandral exclaimed, his blonde hair falling perfectly around his face as he clasped Thor''s forearm, his eyes on the people in the dining hall. "We feared you might be in danger, so of course we set out to be by your side again, and here you are feasting with beautiful ladies!"


    Thor''s smile was broad as he embraced each of his friends. "It is good to see you all. I have missed Asgard and my comrades." He said, a wobble to his words for a moment.


    Justin barely held back a grimace, he just wanted this situation over with. Fucking Asgardians, the man had only been gone for a little under two days!


    Didn''t these people sometimes go decades without seeing each other? Or was Thor just special.


    Volstagg, his girth making the hug more of a bear squeeze, patted Thor on the back. "We could not leave you here alone, not with the troubles you have faced. And I must say," he added, his eyes drifting to the buffet, "Finding you in the middle of a Midgardian feast is quite the good luck."


    As Thor turned to the others, to no one''s surprise Volstagg migrated to the buffet table.


    Hogun, the silent and stoic warrior, nodded his greeting, his dark eyes showing a hint of concern. "Thor, we are here to bring you back. Your place is in Asgard." He stated firmly and gruffly.


    Sif stepped forward, her armor clinking softly. Her eyes, sharp and fierce, softened slightly as she looked at Thor, and hard again as her gaze swept over them all. "We feared for your safety, Thor. Loki''s machinations could be a risk to your life, if you were to perish, he''d be King." She looked at him with a slightly pleading expression, "Hogun is right, we need you back!"


    Thor''s expression grew more serious. "I cannot return yet. I am not worthy to wield Mjolnir, and until I prove myself, I cannot face our father." He sighed wearily, laying a hand on Sifs shoulder, "You also judge Loki too harshly, I''m sure whatever issue you have with him, it''s not what it seems."


    Sif seemed to disagree, but also refused to openly question Thor in front of strangers, if her glance at them was any tell.


    Fandral''s face showed genuine sympathy as he patted Thor on the back. "We understand, Thor. But we are here to help you in any way we can, surely we can figure out a way for you to regain your hammer?" His gaze shifted to the table, landing on Phantazia and Domino. His smile turned charming immediately as he preened slightly. "And who are these incredibly enchanting women?"


    Domino raised an eyebrow, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Not interested, twink." She sniffed, giving him a cruel dismissive once over, "A five at best."


    Phantazia scoffed, adding with a chilled glare, "You wouldn''t survive a day with either of us, I assure you."


    Fandral''s smile faltered slightly but quickly recovered. "A challenge then! I do love a good challenge." He cocked his head curiously, "One question if I may ask, what is a twink?"


    Justin ignored it as Domino leaned forward with unholy glee in her eyes. The man was an Asgardian, he would survive. He switched his gaze to the others instead, studying them, finding nothing but more foolishness. He suddenly could sympathize with Loki.


    Not only Thor, but these ones as well, for centuries? No wonder he went mad.


    Volstagg, meanwhile, had already begun piling a plate with an assortment of food, his eyes wide with delight. "Midgard may be lacking in some areas, but food is not one of them," He declared, taking a hearty bite of a muffin, "It is not the bountiful feasts of Asgard, but it''s not half bad." He grunted.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    "It''s also meant only for those who paid to stay at this location." Erik grumbled tiredly, watching them wearily, the man having the sense to worry about the consequences of more aliens appearing.


    Unlike Jane, who was watching them all with fascination, in between sending Sif curious looks, her eyes flitting between her and Thor.


    Sif nodded curtly at Erik. "We appreciate your hospitality then, but our mission is urgent. Thor must return to Asgard." She turned to Thor again, "Whatever your beliefs in Loki''s honor, you can not stay here, Thor."


    Thor sighed, looking at his friends with a mixture of gratitude and resignation. "I appreciate your concern, truly. But until I am worthy again, I cannot leave." He reiterated.


    Volstagg, now on his second plate, looked up. "Then we will help you become worthy. Whatever it takes." He said matter of factly.


    Jane, who had been silent until now, finally spoke up. "Thor, what does it mean to be worthy? How can we help?" She asked eagerly, "I.. I still think from what you said to me, that you were meant to learn humility, but¡­ Maybe Asgard has other concerns that I haven''t taken into consideration."


    Thor looked at her, his expression softening. "If I knew for sure what it took to be worthy, it would be much simpler, aye¡­ I fear it will not be a simple task, my friends." He sighed deeply, "You should not have come here, my father will be wroth with you whence he wakes."


    "Asgardians will figure out this task, you need not worry mortal." Sif said condescendingly to Jane, stepping next to Thor, "And the Allfather may punish us, Thor, but if it is to save you, and assist you, we will all gladly take such."


    The room fell into a thoughtful silence, broken only by the sounds of Volstagg''s enthusiastic eating, Jane quietly glaring at Sif. Fandral, undeterred by his earlier rebuff, turned to Phantazia again, breaking the silence. "So, tell me more about yourselves. Surely, there are tales to be told."


    He''d only been slightly put out it seemed from being labelled a ''five'' and a twink.


    Phantazia glared at him, teeth on display in a mockery of a smile. "We''re not here for your entertainment."


    Domino snickered lightly. "And you''re definitely not here for ours, five."


    Justin cleared his throat, drawing everyone''s attention. "Let''s focus on the task at hand. Thor, your friends are here to help. Let''s figure out our next steps." He said mildly, wanting to keep them on task until the Destroyer arrived. It had nothing to do with how he wanted to wring Fandral''s neck.


    Domino and Phantazia was technically not his women in that manner. But he still on principle refused to entertain a moronic alien as a potential boyfriend for them.


    Thor nodded, his resolve strengthening. "Indeed. We can not tarry, surely my friend''s absence will be noted and remarked upon. I would not wish them to face punishment because of my own actions."


    Sif stepped closer to Thor, her voice low but firm. "We will stand by you, Thor. Together, we will face whatever challenges come, Loki can not punish us, he''s not king, he''s a pretender."


    Thor frowned at her, "Sif¡­" He trailed off, looking conflicted.


    Justin figured he was probably not used to actually pushing back against anything his friends said to disparage Loki, and was now unsure of how to address it.


    Phantazia''s eyes flickered to Justin, a subtle signal that she had news, he immediately leaned in, "Justin," She said quietly, "the security team has picked up incoming."


    Justin''s heart rate quickened. "What is it?" Good, the Destroyer, let''s get this over with!


    "Several dozen men in armor just beamed down on Main Street in a conflagration of light," She replied, her voice tense.


    ¡­.Shit!


    Justin just knew Loki was going to Loki this all, where was his fucking Destroyer?


    The mood at the table shifted instantly. Thor, catching the change in atmosphere, turned back to the group. "What is going on?"


    When Phantazia repeated her news, all the Asgardians looked grave, their hands falling to their weapons.


    Sif swore under her breath. "Loki must have realized we came and sent someone after us."


    Justin''s mind raced. This was unexpected, yet in a way, it hadn''t thrown everything in disarray. If Loki was making moves, it meant things were still on track, they just needed to force his hand to send down the Destroyer. "Several dozen, you said?" He confirmed with Phantazia.


    "Yes," She nodded, "I''ve told the security teams to only observe for now."


    Justin hesitated on calling the HAMMER team. If this turned into a rout, would Loki even send the Destroyer? Would Thor even regain his powers?


    "Keep them hanging back in reserve, have them ready to attack from the rear should we need it." He ordered.


    Thor''s expression hardened, a mix of anger and determination. "They are Asgardians, my people, you will not harm them," He declared, his voice resolute, before turning to his friends. "My friends, to arms! You and I shall convince them to leave."


    The Warriors Three and Sif immediately fell in line, ready to follow Thor into battle - like old times, even Thor seemingly forgetting he didn''t actually have any powers right now. Justin stood as well, signaling for Domino and Phantazia to stay close. "Dr Foster, Dr Selvig, you should stay here. It''s not going to be safe out there," He advised, his tone leaving no room for argument.


    He completely ignored Thor''s words. They weren''t going to leave this to a group of frankly - not that intelligent - Asgardians to fix. He wasn''t sure what he''d said to cause Loki to flip the script, but he wasn''t going to be a passive bystander.


    If anything they needed to be there, assisting in the situation, pushing Loki to go all in with the Destroyer, as he doubted the Einherjar would push Thor enough to give his powers back. Banished or not, he was still the crown prince, and none of them would be trying to kill him.


    Jane''s eyes were wide with fear and confusion. "What''s happening?"


    Justin spared her a brief glance. "Asgardian politics, nothing to worry about. Stay here, where it''s safe. We''ll handle this."


    Phantazia hissed between her teeth suddenly, grasping Justin''s shoulder, pulling him back from the door the Asgardians had already exited, "Sir, a large suit of armor just appeared."


    Justin let out a breath, good, thank you Loki for the gift. "Did it also arrive on the main street, with the rest of the Asgardians?" He asked.


    Phantazia shook her head, one hand pressed tightly against her ear, and the communication device inside. "It appeared from the other direction, with a clear view of the main street."


    What? Did Loki intend to just snipe Thor in the back? Blame Thor''s death on them¡­ That¡­ Actually might be exactly what he was doing.


    Phantazia disabused him of that notion quickly, "Thor and his friends have seen it, they''re attacking."


    Domino chuckled, "What amazingly simple people¡­"


    Justin had a bad feeling now, "And the other Asgardians?"


    "Heading here."


    Of course they were.


    ¡­ Would it mean war if they killed them all? How do you even disable Asgardian warriors with centuries of experience?


    Domino and Phantazia didn''t have extremis yet. He could not risk them, especially not while trying to fight handicapped to avoid a war.


    "I''m calling the team in." He said heavily. Knowing that there was no way in hell there would be no casualties from this.


    Hopefully Odin would understand this was all Loki''s fault afterwards.


    <hr>


    They''d moved away from the hotel, not wanting to make it a battleground with the civilians and their newly hired scientists caught in the middle.


    "SHIELDs status?" Justin asked tersely as they made their way towards the outskirts of town.


    Phantazia shook her head, lips thinned in displeasure, "They''ve stopped accepting calls, no doubt intending to see who wins before stepping in."


    Justin grimaced, he''d probably have done the same if the roles were reversed, but it didn''t mean he''d let them get away with it. "Once the team arrives, you and Domino go deal with Agent Garrett, I want him alive, the rest¡­" He glared at the approaching Einherjar, his blood practically boiling. "Remove them from play."


    This situation had gotten complicated, he''d already planned to clean house, but now it was imperative that as few survivors as possible got away from this situation. The only word allowed on how this all happened needed to be his, and Thor''s - with Thor''s word being whatever he could convince the man to believe.


    He had half a mind to order the town purged once he got Foster and co out.


    If Kaecillius didn''t get his team here soon though¡­


    The Einherjar came to a stop within shouting distance, a large mountain of a man stepping forward, clad in golden gleaming armor, planting his spear in the ground before bellowing out a demand, "On orders of King Loki, the mortal named Justin Hammer is to present himself for his crimes against Asgard!"


    Phantazia stepped in close to his shoulder, muttering into his ear, "Another group of Asgardians just beamed down behind us, our security team is ready on your order, sir."


    Justin nodded, showing he''d heard, even as he wondered what Loki was playing at. Crimes against Asgard was a bit much, wasn''t it? What on earth had he said that fixated the fool on him to this extent?


    Was he really going to play this like he was trying to use Thor to institute a coup? That was a little thin¡­


    "Asgard has no right to demand anything of Earth, you are not of this realm, leave now, and you will be allowed to leave with your lives despite this invasion¡­" Justin shouted back, projecting confidence, standing his ground.


    Like hell he was going to allow aliens to dictate terms to him, on his planet. Besides, with Loki calling the shots, diplomacy was never going to solve this.


    Only power could. The language these Asgardians might actually understand. And Justin was willing to burn this entire town down to show these interlopers that Earth was not an easy target anymore.


    "So be it." The large man called out, sounding pleased, before he picked his spear up, twirling it dramatically, "Take him alive." He ordered the Einherjar, pointing his spear at Justin, "For ASGARD!" He bellowed as he rushed in.


    Several things happened very quickly in succession at that moment.


    Domino fired, using one of her HammerTech laser weapons instead of her usual guns, the beam heading for the leaders face, his spear just barely coming up to protect him, the beam somehow splitting on the tip of the spear, the two separate beams impacting two Einherjar behind him, killing them instantly with two headshots.


    At the same time, Phantazia ordered the security team to fire, and the back of the Asgardian formation came under heavy fire, as Extremis dosed veteran soldiers popped out of their hiding spaces and began mowing them down, the Asgardians caught by surprise.


    These weren''t heavily armored soldiers, they''d come expecting a weak mortal, their light armor not prepared for energy weapons fired by veteran soldiers.


    They reacted swiftly still, only taking light casualties before managing to split their group into smaller cells, four man squads rushing in for close combat, giving less of a target to shoot at, as the front of the group all advanced at superhuman speed at the security teams as well as Justin.


    The aliens were still stronger than them, as was soon apparent as they closed in with the security teams, spears and swords flashing as limbs flew in the air. The Asgardians still died, whereas his security team had Extremis, but for every dead Asgardian on the ground, more and more of his team were being bogged down, cut apart, their regeneration pushed to the max - they would not last at this rate.


    Which was the time a orange portal swirled into being in front of Justin, just as the huge leader of the Einherjar attacked with a roar of battle lust, swinging for Justin, a beam of pure white crackling electricity hitting him in the chest, cooking him inside his armor as he howled in agony his voice gaining a tinny quality, the men behind him temporarily frozen in place, as Electro hopped out of the portal, full of swagger, sparks flying back and forth between his fingers.


    "Get cooked, bitch!" He exclaimed joyfully, looking beyond excited to have had a dramatic entrance. He looked back at Justin, and if he''d had a tail, it would have been wagging, "Did you see that? Did you?" He said happily.


    Justin let out a breath, sweat running down his face, he would have survived an Asgardian rampaging all over him, sure. But it wouldn''t have been pleasant. And he was less sure about surviving a dozen of them at once.


    Regeneration had limits.


    The Vulture and Scorpion armors came out next, the Asgardians raising their weapons, but not looking nearly as sure of themselves in the face of the intimidating power armored figures.


    They were quickly followed by the new Captain America, Whiplash, and to Justin''s surprise, Hope, in her Wasp armor.


    Lastly, Yelena and Kaecilius stepped through, Yelena looking ready for battle, loaded up with more weapons then the rest of them combined, wearing a black bodysuit, the tightness of which would have been indecent, if all the weapons strapped on didn''t hide everything important.


    "Hope, Yelena, what are you two doing here?" He shouted over the roar of The Vulture and Scorpion engaging with the Asgardians trying to take them in the rear, their new arc powered laser weapons combined with micro missiles and the Scorpions artillery cannon - protecting their rear all on their own against two dozen of Asgards finest.


    These men wore heavy armor, and could withstand the energy weapons better than their unlucky comrades. He could see moments later that more Asgardians were beaming down in the distance, the bifrost visible to Justin. He had no doubt these would also be heavily armored, Loki wasn''t entirely moronic.


    Hope flew over to his side, her wings buzzing, her helmet retracting as she landed, "I was in Cairo anyway when you called for the team to gather, so I joined up." She said with a small luminous smile that lit up her face, her hand touching his cheek softly, "I was worried." She admitted.


    Yelena stepped in front of her, none so gently shoving her away, gaining an eye roll from Hope, who stepped back, keeping an eye on the battle, "I''m not going to stay back when you''re in danger." Yelena said, daring him to argue.


    Justin just let it go, the situation was already fucked up, and he didn''t have time to argue about it. Hope and Yelena were both strong combatants, they''d be fine. They better be fine.


    Or he''d find out what a dozen nukes could do to Odin''s front yard¡­


    Bucky stepped up, arm raised as his shield suddenly returned to it to catch magnetically onto the arm, an Asgardian soldier falling back, choking, grabbing at his crushed throat. "Orders?" He asked tersely.


    Before Justin could think of what to say, Phantazia took control of the situation, snapping out rapidly, "Captain, get Wasp and Electro and use Kaecillius to portal behind the battle line, our security team is getting slaughtered in close combat, only Extremis keeping them relevant, they need assistance." She tapped her communication device, "Whiplash, overwatch, get in the sky, occupy those not engaged - don''t let our team get overwhelmed in any one position, snipe them."


    Bucky simply nodded approvingly, jogging away, his shield blurring as he slapped a thrown spear away, retaliating with the shield''s edge into the eyes of the Asgardian, knocking them down, blood spurting. On the way, he grabbed the back of the collar of Electro, who was cackling in glee, dodging spears as he roasted one Asgardian at a time, going for maximum power each hit. Hope gave Justin a last lingering look, squeezing his hand, before she shrunk, flying after Bucky and Electro, towards where Kaecillius was standing, mandalas on his hands as he deflected the odd thrown spear in his direction.


    Yelena looked at Phantazia quizzically, "And me?" She asked simply.


    Phantazia let two of the arc laser pistols drop into her hands, "You''ll be going with Domino to deal with HYDRA before they encircle us and try and take out the winner." Her eyes narrowed as she cursed, "New squad just dropped in." She added tersely. "Make that two!" She added a second later, looking like she''d swallowed a lemon.


    Justin really didn''t like this. What was Loki thinking? How would he possibly excuse this?


    Domino fired, eyes hard, her shots taking down a soldier with every hit, but they kept coming, and the new soldiers wore full armor, making them more difficult to one shot. "I don''t think going after the HYDRA goons is a good idea, right now." She said, giving Justin a push out of nowhere, a spear whistling by inches from his head, "If they can just keep sending reinforcements, we might have to retreat." She added.


    Justin glared at her, "We''re not retreating!"


    Domino gave him a flat look, "My job is your survival, not your feelings. I''ll carry you to Kaecillius over my back if I have to."


    Phantazia stepped in to end the argument, "Domino, go, you and Yelena can handle it quickly, I''ll retreat with him if it becomes necessary, HYDRA can''t be allowed to to pile on, or we''re really going to be in danger here." She ordered tersely, staring down Domino.


    Justin had originally ordered her and Domino for the task, when he''d thought this fight wouldn''t be too difficult. But with Phantazia taking command over the battle, it made sense for her to stay and guard him. Even if he disliked the idea based on the fact she did not have Extremis.


    He idly toyed with the idea to call Ross, and order a missile strike on the town, while he and his portalled out. Thor¡­ He''d die, and that we would pay for in spades¡­ He dropped the thought, for now.


    Yelena tugged on Domino''s arm, not looking happy either, "Let''s go, the sooner we finish, the sooner we can come back."


    Domino cursed, glaring at Justin and Phantazia both, "Don''t do anything stupid!" She spat, before following Yelena, running towards the outskirts of the battle, Whiplash obviously having been paying attention to coms, as he cut a path for them, firing a concentrated beam that cut through the growing mass of Asgardians.


    "I fight more dangerous aliens in toilet!" His speakers shouted out to the world, as the mad Russian cackled, a long stretch of burned ground sizzling with pieces of Asgardians laying around, several of the spear wielding aliens firing up at Whiplash, showing that the spears doubled as energy weapons.


    Justin couldn''t fathom why some idiots had thrown them earlier if they could do that! Asgardians!


    Phantazia grabbed his arm, pulling him back towards Kaecilius, who''d returned after dropping Bucky''s squad off behind the Asgardians, "For the record, I would have forced you to retreat, if the enemy wouldn''t simply beam down more soldiers wherever we took you." She said bluntly, eyes distant as she listened to more reports coming in.


    "Vulture and Scorpion are facing magical artillery¡­" She said blandly - in a, this is my life now - kind of way. "They''re asking for permission to unleash everything."


    The noise was deafening, the sound of the power armors and Asgardian artillery firing back and forth against each other, Justin craned his neck, and blanched as he saw one of the artillery pieces was literally floating in the air, flitting back and forth to avoid The Vultures return fire. This is getting worse by the minute!


    Justin didn''t give two shits about this little town, or the civilians, but there were some VIPs here¡­ He glanced back at Kaecilius, "The town''s only hotel, three people, Jane Foster, Erik Selvig, Darcy Lewis, get them out of here now." He ordered.


    "As you say, Master." Kaecilius put a fist to his heart, before he disappeared in another portal.


    "Tell Whiplash, Scorpion and Vulture to wait for my command, then wipe out that entire section of town. We can''t keep fighting these Asgardians from two directions." Justin said coldly, eying the battle in front of him with his blood boiling in rage over the stupidity of it all.


    Loki couldn''t just stay on script, could he? He just had to try and get something more than Thor''s death out of this whole endeavor. He would have a hell of a time explaining this all to the World Security Council, the President, and fucking Odin if he was particularly unlucky.


    Hopefully he could push that off on Thor. Speaking of¡­


    "Any word on Thor and the moronic four?" He asked, wincing as Bucky got thrown into a wall, his three opponents going down seconds later as Electro disengaged one hand from where he was firing a beam at a squad of Asgardians, and fired a second one getting all three, their bodies jerking like puppets as their nerves fried.


    Electro was getting way too into this.


    Here and there around them, he could see Asgardians being put down, seemingly from nothing, the Wasp at work no doubt, although he was surprised to note she was going lethal. While this happened, the shattered remains of his security teams backed them up with covering fire, while staying away from the stronger Asgardians, letting the team handle that.


    The combined effort of both at least managing to let them slowly overcome the enemies superior numbers.


    He swore as Whiplash was blown out of the sky, tearing a long groove in the ground, bowling over half a dozen Asgardians, one of those magical artillery pieces must have gotten him. From audible Russian cursing blowing out eardrums, he was fine, if a bit ruffled.


    This is why he did not want his top scientist in a role where he could get shot at!


    "Sir¡­ We''re not winning." Phantazia told him, her back to Justin''s as she kept firing in the other direction, towards the Asgardians that slipped past The Vulture and Scorpion due to the artillery taking some of their attention. "If Domino and Yelena don''t keep HYDRA from joining in¡­" She trailed off, the cacophony of buildings being destroyed cutting her off, the missed shots of the Asgardians cutting through the small towns buildings like a knife through butter.


    Doubtless killing dozens of civilians, not that he particularly cared - but it would be good fodder for negotiations with the Asgardians in the aftermath. If there was an aftermath.


    "This is going to be an invasion if we don''t show them here and now that we won''t take it." Justin growled, incensed, gesturing at Phantazia with one hand, "Give me a damn gun." He ordered. "We''re not retreating until we face certain death!"


    He could see as well as she could that if he didn''t retreat, he''d have to fight, there were too many Asgardians for all of them to be dealt with before they reached him. And like hell he would allow these uppity aliens with their medieval society chase him away!


    He lined up a shot, and fired, snarling when the helmeted head meant it wasn''t a kill shot. Again and again, he pulled the trigger, until the Asgardians head was melted slag, having to duck under a spear as two others closed in.


    Then there was pain, his vision whiting out for a moment, before both Asgardians before him died to a wrathful Phantazia. Justin hissed, blood on his lips, as he pulled the spear out of his side. If he had a nickel for every time he''d been speared¡­ Well he''d only have two, but it was still weird it happened twice.


    "Sir?" Phantazia asked, firing constantly, even as she utilized her powers to keep the flood of Asgardians manageable. For every Asgardian she shot, three more fell to the ground, their nervous system twitching in agony.


    "I''m good." He grunted, taking up the Agardian spear in one hand, while firing the gun with the other, his back again against Phantazia''s. "We''re not giving up, we''re not retreating. Kill them all!" He snarled at her, using his super strength to slam away a spear heading for his gut, stepping into the Asgardians space, shoving his gun under his helmet, pulling the trigger once, twice, thrice, the body falling bonelessly to the ground.


    She didn''t say anything for a moment, before she chuckled savagely, "If I must¡­"


    Suddenly the cries of agony from the nearby Asgardians increased in volume, as Phantazia put her back in it, pulling harder at her power.


    Kaecillius returned suddenly, almost getting a spear through his throat, barely ducking away before he sliced the man in half with an orange glowing energy sword that he just conjured up with a hand gesture.


    ¡­. The man had a fucking lightsaber and called him Master¡­ Ah, that can''t end well. For now he focused on the importance of his arrival, "They''re safe?" He questioned, firing several times at the Asgardian running at him, not getting through his armor, before Kaecillius created a portal in front of him, the man disappearing through it, not able to stop his momentum.


    Damn¡­ I really need to get to learning how to do that, it would have been really damn helpful right now, Justin thought.


    "Yes, Master." He said, mandalas appearing over both of his wrists, as he stepped closer, defending Justin, allowing him to focus on just shooting, Phantazia a whirlwind of death behind them.


    "Phantazia, give the order!" He shouted, before quipping to Kaecillius, feeling a bit better now that the pressure was slightly eased, "Where did you send that man anyway?"


    "100 feet above an active Volcano." Kaecillius answered with just the hint of a smirk on his face. "Just enough time for him to realize where he''s going to land."


    Justin laughed, his blood pumping as another Asgardian was stopped in place by Kaecillius, Justin finishing him off with his stolen spear, twisting it cruelly in his gut, before pulling his intestines out with it. "Good¡­ Very good." He said.


    Then they were thrown off their feet, an entire third of the town behind them disappearing under the combined total firepower of Whiplash, Vulture and Scorpion, the conflagration and explosion deafening, heated air rushing past them, hot enough their clothes began to smoke.


    There was no way, any Asgardians back there survived that!


    "Get the hell off my planet!" Justin shouted, his blood singing as he danced in place, "YES! That''s more like it, WHOOHOO!"


    The Asgardians in front of them hesitated.


    <hr>


    With Domino and Yelena,


    Domino and Yelena moved without any thoughts to stealth as they rushed the SHIELD/HYDRA agents'' mustering point by their borrowed headquarters. The makeshift camp buzzed with activity, agents rushing to and fro, dozens of vehicles loaded up and ready for deployment, no doubt to come down on whoever won the engagement.


    Neither one of them was in a mood to take it slow and methodical, so they simply pushed ahead, weapons ready.


    Their first encounter was over as quick as it started. Domino fired two swift shots from her HammerTech pistols, luckily nailing the fuel tanks of two of the SUVs that were idling closest to the perimeter, both of them going up in flames, taking all the men within with them. The explosions woke up the rest of them, every eye turning their way.


    The response from the rest of the agents was swift, but somehow they just couldn''t hit Domino as she rushed forward, Yelena following in her wake, using her as cover, two grenades sailing away from their side from her hands as they rushed past two more vehicles, the grenades landing in the laps of panicked men.


    Seconds later those vehicles were also no longer a threat.


    Meanwhile, agents all around them were cursing up a storm, finding that their guns would malfunction as they aimed at Domino, or they''d fire, and the gun would explode. Similar ''accidents'' happened all over as the two women moved forward, the agents not having long to complain, as Domino and Yelena both fired, both hands now carrying a gun, putting an end to the men and women who fought them with extreme prejudice, never having to fire twice to get a kill shot.


    They reached the office, springing through the window, uncaring of the glass, as Domino took the lead - the glass spray unfailingly exploding away from her, taking a HYDRA agent in the eyes, Yelena coming through behind her, rolling over Domino''s back as the lucky woman kneeled and fired, a cold expression on her face as she showed no mercy on her enemies.


    Her usual easygoing nature was nowhere to be seen since this debacle kicked off.


    Yelena sprang into action as she came up from her roll, a blur of motion as she closed the distance to the nearest agents. She delivered a series of rapid strikes to the nearest agent using her guns as a bludgeon, her fists and feet moving faster than he could react. A chop to the neck, a sweep of the legs, and the agent was down, gun firing right after to ensure he was down permanently. Before the others could respond, Domino leapt from her position, her legs kicking out in a flurry of motion, sending two more agents sprawling to the ground, unconscious from well-placed strikes, even as she painted the wall with another headshot to the remaining agent just as he lined his gun up towards Yelena.


    Yelena coldly executed the two unconscious agents, as Domino moved on to the agents sprinting into the room, drawn by the commotion.


    "Is this what you call a challenge?" Domino quipped, flipping over a table to use as a shield against incoming fire. She rolled behind it, her movements fluid and precise, and fired off several shots, each taking down more agents. "I expected more¡­"


    Several of the shots taken against Domino ricocheted back, hitting agents in the legs or arms, distracting them for the return fire.


    Yelena didn''t respond to Domino, her focus entirely on the task at hand, wanting to get through it as quickly as possible to end the threat and return to Justin. She grabbed a discarded baton, using it to parry a blow from an agent that had closed in on her, kicking the gun she dropped to grab the baton, sending it flying up into the face of the second agent attacking her, firing two shots from point blank range with her other gun now that she had some room, killing them immediately.


    She spun on her heel, the baton still in hand, and blocked another incoming punch, countering with a precise nerve strike that left her opponent gasping for air and collapsing, she immediately shot him as well, stopping to grab the gun she''d used earlier to distract the other agent, the baton already tossed forward, striking an agent in the head, Domino getting her with a headshot moments later.


    "Nice moves, been awhile since we went all out, huh?" Domino called out, seemingly in a better mood now then when they''d begun. The woman had been incensed to be sent away from Justin in a battle scenario.


    Despite no doubt understanding how her luck practically guaranteed this mission would go off without a hitch. The fact they were so easily going through them, seemed to have settled her somewhat, Yelena thought.


    "We should get out like this more often," Yelena replied, a rare bloodthirsty smile tugging at the corner of her mouth as she dispatched another agent who''d somehow slipped while trying to hide behind the door, falling right into the entrance like a sitting duck.


    She really loved this luck thing, it really made things simpler.


    They pressed forward, their path marked by the fallen bodies of SHIELD/HYDRA agents. The office building was in chaos now, alarms blaring as more agents poured out of nearby rooms. Domino and Yelena faced them head-on, their movements a symphony of lethal precision.


    They were constantly running into firing issues, and apparently someone had quite the fruit craving, as a cafeteria garbage got overturned, spilling banana peels everywhere.


    Yelena turned to Domino, a raised eyebrow her only reaction, as both of them raised four guns in total, firing and killing the hapless agents slipping around comically on the floor.


    Domino tossed one of her guns aside, the battery depleted, Yelena having the same problem, both of them making mental notes to mention it to Justin - the guns needed to last longer if they were going to be at all useful in long engagements. Neither of them wore extra battery packs after all.


    Domino ducked under a wild swing from an agent that had come from behind them moments later, using her momentum to deliver a spinning kick to her assailant''s head. As he fell, falling down the stairs, she snatched his sidearm, spinning around to fire a shot at another agent rushing at her, at the same time killing an agent peeking around a table with her own gun.


    "Think they''re getting the message yet?" Domino asked, growling slightly as she slammed the butt of her pistol into an agent''s side, sending him crumpling away from her, Yelena shooting him in the head for her, coming up to her side.


    "Does it matter to dead people?" Yelena replied, her voice steady despite the exertion. Domino had her luck, but she had her training and the Extremis/Supe mix, this was turning out to be easy for them both.


    They fought their way through the main office, not many agents left alive to attempt to deter them, their path leading them to the command center soon enough. Inside, the agents had fortified their position, but Domino and Yelena were undeterred.


    They didn''t need to worry about collateral damage, so they simply blew the way up, using grenades, rushing in through the smoke and debris to take down anyone still alive.


    At this point that wasn''t a high number. SHIELD/HYDRA had not exactly drowned the location in numbers for this operation. So Garrett had not had a ton of men to draw on. They''d likely killed the majority already.


    They moved deeper into the command center, the air thick with the tension of their enemies The remaining agents were desperate, their attacks becoming more frantic. Domino and Yelena remained calm, their movements precise and effective.


    Domino ducked under a flying tackle from a desperate woman, using her attacker''s momentum to send her crashing into a wall, she casually shot her, ensuring she was dead, before strolling forward, the office now empty of anything except their quarry.


    The two women reached the inner office, where Sitwell and Garrett could be seen holed up. The door was blocked of course, but a few more grenades made short work of it - and the wall around them.


    Garrett and Sitwell stood inside, covered in dust, Sitwell with a shell shocked look on his face, Garrett''s face twisted in a sneer. "You think you can just walk in here and -"


    "Nice easy surrender, or a hard one?" Yelena cut him off, her voice cold and sharp.


    Garrett''s sneer widened. "You don''t scare me." His hand lowered towards his belt, no visible weapons there, only an electronic device.


    It wouldn''t surprise either of them if the man had some sort of self-destruct set up as a worst case scenario. He seemed the type who would do anything to take his enemy down with him.


    Domino shrugged, "Hard one it is," she said, raising her pistol, shooting Sitwell between the eyes as the man attempted to speak, Garrett immediately reaching for whatever the electronic device at his belt was.


    Before Garrett could get there, Yelena was on him, her fists flying in a blur of motion. She delivered a series of rapid strikes to his midsection, finishing with a precise nerve strike that left him gasping for air and collapsing.


    Yelena grabbed Garrett by the collar, hauling him to his feet. "You really should have taken the easy way," She said, her voice dripping with contempt. She delivered a final, precise chop to his neck, knocking him out cold.


    Domino poked Sitwell with a toe, stretching languidly. "Well, that was fun," She said, dusting off her hands, "Easy too."


    Yelena nodded, looking around at the carnage they had wrought. "Let''s get him back to Justin," She said, her tone worried.


    Domino nodded seriously, checking her guns over, as Yelena lifted Garrett up,


    Neither one of them cared at all for all the dead bodies they left behind as they rushed out of the former FBI office, heading back to the main battle.


    <hr>


    Back with Justin and co,


    The town burned around them, smoke billowing across the broken and shattered town, dead Asgardians littered the ground, broken homes and businesses lay crushed around them - it looked like a warzone. Several of his security team lay dead or dying as well, even their Extremis conquered through constant deaths at the hand of the Einherjar.


    It was a sobering sight to Justin, who now knew beyond a doubt, that regeneration was only useful up to a point. If you got killed enough times, the damage would start outlasting the regeneration until you had no energy left.


    They stood on what was left of Main street - or to be more precise, Main street was what was left of the town so they stood on it. The Einherjar on one side, the HAMMER team on the other side, both sides ready to get back into it, the Einherjar waiting on something, Justin''s team catching their breath while they still could.


    They had no wish to engage more than necessary, not with how difficult the fight had been. Reinforcements had finally stopped coming, but there had been a lot of damage done before then.


    The team had seen better days. Whiplash and the Vulture were both scorched, their armor far from pristine, half of Whiplash arc reactors were dark, and the Vulture had a malfunctioning wing, making flight more difficult. Frank Castle stood in just what was left of his undersuit, carrying a rifle, the Scorpion having been disabled, having had to hold the majority of the Asgardians down for the final shot.


    The entire armor would have to be redone, ruined beyond repair. Frank willingly taking on the damage and burning to death, counting on his Extremis to get him back afterwards.


    Justin didn''t know whether to give the man a raise, or schedule all the therapists. It had worked, sure, but it was still an insane thing to willingly go through.


    Electro was unconscious, guarded by Wasp, who was suffering from a broken collarbone - Justin really regretting not getting her the full on Extremis/super serum treatment already. Bucky looked like he''d been through a slaughterhouse, but seemed uninjured, standing at the front, face guarded as he stared down the Asgardians.


    Justin and Phantazia were both physically fine, but mentally exhausted, her from overuse of her powers, him from having to heal from injuries several dozen times due to his markedly less then Einherjar levels of combat skills.


    The town was lost at this point. If the civilians hadn''t fled at first sight of trouble, they were probably all dead now. Justin could see the odd civilian body in the rubble, and knew this whole debacle would be a giant pain in the ass, even if he could blame it on Asgard invading.


    Because at this point, with several hundred Einherjar having fought, it was an invasion in all but name.


    Domino and Yelena jogged into sight, a bound agent Garrett over Yelena''s shoulder, neither one looked troubled at the least, not even looking like they broke a sweat.


    Justin relaxed just a little, letting some tension bleed out. HYDRA was taken care of at least, and he could even blame it on the Asgardians, so he wouldn''t even owe Pierce a favor. He''d been worried sending Domino away would backfire on him, but he''d survived just fine, and her mission had gone without a hitch from the look of it.


    He could work with this. Loki wasn''t sending reinforcements, so either something happened, he gave up, or he simply realized the futility in his actions and pivoted to do something else nefarious in the background.


    Justin really hoped it wasn''t the last one. This situation didn''t need to be Loki''d anymore then it already had been.


    "Do we know what they''re waiting for?" He muttered out of the side of his mouth to Phantazia, eyeing the silent Einherjar.


    Stupid warrior races, they didn''t even look that bothered to be standing amongst the slaughter of over twice their own number. Like a good battle was worth it all. With their people like this, it was honestly a surprise they stood up to Hela in Ragnarok and didn''t join in with gusto.


    Or had Loki changed their culture that much while he played Odin?


    Either way, he was getting distracted, and needed to focus, in case battle commenced again, it was hard, with exhaustion felt all the way in his bones, he wasn''t used to actually be fighting.


    This was why he had money - so he wouldn''t have to.


    The question of why the Asgardians had stopped, was answered, as Thor flew down, landing in front of the Asgardians, fully clad in his regalia, hammer in hand. His eyes went over the ruins, the bodies of his people, and Justin could practically feel his presence spiking, storm clouds gathering above them.


    Shit!


    They must have felt him getting his powers back, that''s why they stopped fighting and were waiting, he was now in charge, being the crown prince and actually on site, it might be why Loki drew back as well, preparing in Asgard for Thor''s return.


    "Thor." Justin took a step forward, Bucky glancing at him, his fingers twitching towards his shield, ready to defend him, the shield having proved effective against both Asgardian energy weapons, and Agardian bones.


    It wasn''t the original of course, but Justin had enough Vibranium laying around to make another frisbee to make Bucky''s look authentic. And after Peggy was healed, albeit likely to die within the decade still with how old she was - Bucky was his, properly.


    "What have you done!?" Thor cried out, looking around him, teeth gritting together, thunder roaring in the sky.


    Justin didn''t know why the Destroyer fight took longer, how he got his powers back this time, but he knew he did not in any way want to tangle with Thor if he could avoid it.


    "We defended ourselves, Thor. This¡­" He gestured around him, eyes hard, "This was a town on Earth, your people came here, they did this."


    From the looks his people gave him, this was not the tack they''d expected him to take to avoid another fight. But Justin felt in this case, the best defense was offense.


    Thor growled lowly, stance confrontational, "How many of my people have died, today, Hammer!?" He questioned, voice thick with emotion, "You did not need to kill them!"


    Justin took another step forward, nominally putting himself in harm''s way, but also showing that he wasn''t afraid, "Thor, tell me." He spat out harshly, "If this was a village in Asgard, and outsiders came in and attacked, would you counsel your warriors to please pull their punches, and risk their lives to save their enemies any pain?" He cut through the air with one arm sharply, "Your people attacked mine, you have deaths to mourn perhaps, warriors, who knew what they were getting into. We have civilians, children, dead because you attacked our realm, this town, in an unjust invasion. The blame here lies not with me, not with your soldiers, but the one who ordered it!"


    Having Thor as an enemy right now was less than ideal, especially as he needed the fool to go before Odin and honestly say this was all on Asgard, not Earth.


    Justin really didn''t want to deal with an actual invasion. For all that he was a full on idiot throughout the MCU, Odin was not by any measure weak. And Justin did not think his team would withstand a fully serious Odin.


    Thor looked mullish still, which was when the Warriors three and Lady Sif jogged into view, all of them looking worse for wear, Sif immediately speaking up, surprisingly in Justin''s defense, "Thor, the mortal has it right, none of this should have happened. Loki sent that Destroyer, he sent the Einherjar, the deaths are on him."


    Fandral, one arm simply gone, face pale, added his own words, halfway held up by Volstagg, "Loki has gone too far this time, Thor, that Destroyer almost killed you, and the Einherjar should have never have been sent against the mortals in the first place, you know this."


    Justin could have kissed their stupid faces. What perfect timing! Their dislike of Loki was really working in his favor here. He inwardly assigned them as the only slightly moronic four, for actually being useful for the first time in their damn lives.


    Thor only now seemed to realize what the ruined town signified, face paling as his head whipped towards Justin, "Lady Jane?" He asked with a booming voice, not noticing the irritable twitch in Lady Sifs face for that being his priority right now.


    "Alive, despite your soldiers best efforts to destroy us all." Justin said coldly. "One wonders if Asgard truly seeks peace with this situation in mind¡­"


    Technically his team had destroyed much of the town, and likely were behind the majority of civilian casualties due to the armored three - but he wasn''t going to waste an opportunity to make Thor take on the blame.


    As far as the world leaders would be concerned, all the deaths would lay on the aliens. The aliens Justin Hammer had kicked off the planet.


    Thor''s face firmed up, and he looked around him, taking in the destruction and dead Asgardians, as well as the live ones. "I will speak with my father, ensure proper wergild for our actions here today." He said heavily, acknowledging that the Asgardians were in the wrong.


    Justin felt like he could breathe properly for the first time in what felt like days, but in reality had been an hour at most - the situation could still be salvaged.


    If Odin would listen to his son, which was¡­ A big maybe.


    But if things proceeded as normally, the rainbow bridge would be destroyed anyway, pushing any issues to years from now.


    Speaking of, "You should return to Asgard." Justin requested, "Sooner the better."


    Thor nodded forlornly, "Aye, I suppose it is for the best, I must speak with Loki, and find out why this all happened." He stroked the head of his hammer, looking distressed, "I apologize for not realizing the situation sooner, and for my failure in stopping all this." He said, bowing his head slightly.


    Justin thought it was a remarkable turnaround from someone that only minutes ago was ready to hammer them all just for daring to survive an Asgardian assault.


    "We will be willing to forgive, Thor, but not if this happens again¡­ Earth is no longer open to Asgardians whims, you wish to speak to us again, open a diplomatic channel." Justin said, his voice slightly more conciliatory, "I will be willing to listen¡­"


    Thor smiled sadly, "Aye, we will not make the same mistake again, I shall ensure it." He gestured for all the remaining Asgardians to get in close, giving Justin a last look, "Farewell Justin Hammer, give the lady Jane my regards, and my apologies, I have learned much on Midgard, and I will not make the same mistakes again."


    Then he raised his hammer, shouting, "Heimdall!"


    And in a flash of multicolored light, they were gone.


    Justin wasn''t sure what would go down on Asgard. As things hadn''t gone down as they should have, including apparently Heimdall being available to transport forces and immediately call them back.


    It certainly hadn''t gone as smoothly as he''d planned it, but they''d won, and perhaps that was all that mattered.


    As his team milled around him, all in some manner looking displeased that the Asgardians were let off without total annihilation, he wondered what would come from this.


    Justin looked around at the destruction moments later, sagging as he realized his day had only just begun.


    The next couple of phone calls were not going to be enjoyable.


    <hr>

 U Mad Bro?

    <hr>


    August 2008, Puento Antiguo, New Mexico.


    The town of Puente Antiguo lay in ruins, a stark reminder of the recent battle. Smoke curled into the sky, the acrid scent of burning debris and charred flesh lingering in the air. Justin Hammer stood amidst the devastation, his expression a mask of grim determination. The clatter of his team moving through the wreckage filled the silence, their faces reflecting the exhaustion and grimness of the day''s events.


    "Bag and tag every piece of Asgardian tech and armor," Justin commanded, his voice cutting through the chaos. "We need to get it all before they pay attention to us again and beam it all up. Kaecillius, get a specialist team here ASAP to assist with gathering everything." He gave everyone a hard stare, his lips thinned, "Take the bodies as well, every body part. Bagged, tagged, and ready for transport."


    Phantazia nodded, already relaying the order to those of the security team not in the nearby vicinity. Domino on the other hand whistled through pinched lips, walking up to him, a hard look on her face, "You sure about that last one, boss?" She asked, grimly watching as those of their own who had died were collected, "I normally don''t care what you get up to, but desecrating alien bodies never ends well in the movies." Her eyes flicked upwards, "Especially not when they can just beam down to profess their displeasure."


    Justin rarely saw Domino serious, so he gave her words considerable weight, but in the end he shook his head, "This whole thing seemed more like a civil war than an invasion, they''ll be busy I wager." To appease her, he added, "But we''ll just store the bodies for now for a few days, see if anyone comes looking, if not, they obviously didn''t care, right?"


    Unless Loki had changed things even more, no one would be coming for the bodies anytime soon. All the better for him. Although the real price was the Destroyer armor, Vanko was already picking up every piece on his order, Thor had smashed it quite comprehensively.


    Smash was his go to move, he and the Hulk were remarkably similar in some ways.


    Kaecillius disappeared to fetch their research teams, the ones more suited for the work of dealing with the bodies, and the rest. Justin eyed the orange portal with want. He didn''t have many hours a day to practice, but he''d finally begun emitting sparks with his own sling rings.


    Soon, he thought covetously, soon¡­


    Justin''s eyes scanned the area afterwards, taking in the sight of his battered team and the fallen Einherjar. The civilians of the town had either fled or been caught in the crossfire, and it was now his responsibility to manage the aftermath. Thankfully, because they''d been so thorough in the town''s destruction, it would also allow him to completely craft the narrative.


    "We got lucky." He surmised, looking over the few fallen on his own side, walking across the line of bodies, thankfully single digits due to Extremis and the arrival of the HAMMER team.


    Domino followed him, glancing around, hands not far from her weapons, "Oh, how so?" She asked, likely playing devil advocate, as she knew more about combat then he''d ever learn.


    But he did have some slight knowledge advantages she lacked.


    "There''s no way this was Asgards might, if anything, with the ornamentation on the armor¡­" He stopped to toe an Asgardian corpse thoughtfully, "They were palace guards or something similar." He surmised.


    This all had seemed like a foolish Loki ploy, not a war strategy from Asgards god of war. He had a feeling there was a stark difference between the two.


    Domino grimaced, "If this was their version of fat complacent nepotism warriors, what are their actual warriors like?" She didn''t seem enthused at the thought this was the bottom rung of warriors, whatever Loki had immediately on hand.


    Oh sure, generally speaking palace guards or royal guards were considered the elite of any monarchy in history etc, but reality was that palace guards spent the majority of their time standing guard, never facing battle. Skills did dull over time even with sparring now and then to keep fit. And for Asgard who likely had some of these guards doing the job for hundreds of years?


    Justin had probably seen more actual life and death battles than some of these ones.


    Justin breathed in heavily, the scent of burning bodies in the air from the unlucky civilians burning in their homes polluting the air. "Let''s hope we don''t find out. The world isn''t ready¡­"


    He looked towards the horizon, eyes narrowed as he pondered what could be done to narrow the gap in the short term, "Yet¡­"


    <hr>


    Twenty minutes later, as his teams were canvassing the town, more teams coming in due to an open portal to Cairo that Kaecillius was holding open, Justin finally decided it was time to bite the bullet and inform the world.


    Pulling out his phone, Justin dialed a secure line, waiting for the connection to be made. Ellis knew not to ignore when he called on this line.


    Which is why he felt significantly annoyed when it took three calls to finally get the man to pick up.


    "Hammer, this better be important!" Ellis groused, "I was on the line with the Russian President, he was not impressed to be put on hold¡­"


    Justin grit his teeth together, Ellis don''t get uppity with me, not today! "Oh, the Russian President, I suppose that''s important¡­" He drawled sarcastically, "When you''re done arguing about pointless human rights with him, do give me a call back to deal with the fact Aliens invaded a small town in New Mexico, wiping it, and the SHIELD contingent stationed here, out - with no survivors." Then he hung up.


    It took seconds for his phone to ring, and he answered sweetly, "I see you''ve made some time?"


    There was cursing on the other line, Ellis yelling to someone, "I don''t care, get the VP to appease him, make up an excuse, I have to take this!" Before his attention turned to Justin, his voice deadly serious, "What happened, Hammer?"


    Justin let his irritation fade, in this case it would be no use to continue to push on Ellis, who had been a good little minion throughout it all, "Well, Asgard is apparently real, and we had a visit from Thor and Loki." He said calmly.


    There was a long pause on the other line, before Ellis slowly spoke up, "If it was anyone but you, Hammer, I''d be requesting a mental evaluation¡­ So¡­ Nordic myths are real¡­" He sounded utterly done with life. "How bad is it?"


    Now that he thought about it, this man would be President from Iron Man to what¡­? Civil War? Talk about a stressful time to be in office.


    "Thor seemed mostly harmless and happy to assist, somewhat like a large puppy¡­ If the puppy could also summon storms and probably bench press a submarine - he was also heavily crushing on a human girl, so we at least have that lever." Justin reported, "To everyone''s great surprise," He continued sarcastically, "It seems Loki is performing some sort of coup, attempting to assassinate Thor, and also sending several hundred troops into Puento Antiguo, wrecking the town." Before the President could fully fall into a panic, he reassured him, "Not to worry, myself and the team eradicated every last alien invader, while Thor went back home to deal with this coup."


    "Do you have confirmation on this divide? How likely are they to return, do you need military assistance right now?" Ellis asked rapidly.


    Justin took a deep breath, feeling exhaustion seeping through him, the mental strain of the battle and its aftermath a considerable weight, and he wouldn''t stop for hours yet. "Well, I''m cautiously optimistic, but if you could get the ball rolling on reading in the World Security Council, NATO an-"


    The phone conversation lasted far longer than he''d hoped, as almost two hours later, after the Defense Secretary and Homeland joined in - the briefing finally finished for now, and he could hang up the phone.


    His eye twitched as it immediately began ringing again.


    <hr>


    Thirty minutes later,


    Justin pinched the bridge of his nose as he held the phone away from his ear, really, who''s idea was it to let Ross be the contact to the Joint Chiefs anyway?


    The asshole had already gotten the summary from the Defense Secretary, but Ross being Ross, and unfortunately important enough Justin couldn''t dodge his phone call indefinitely, had reached out to him to get the full details, claiming he was the point of contact to the Joint Chiefs, which could be true, and knowing him, could also not be true and he''d appointed himself. He''d certainly been on a shorter leash since trying to bully Hammer Industries and Stark industries in favor of Oscorp.


    Seeing Bucky walking up, he spoke quickly into the phone, "Something came up, General, let me put you on hold." Eager to get away from the man already haranguing him on why he didn''t call in the army.


    The goblin suits wouldn''t have done shit to Asgardian energy weapons or strength, Justin thought, not that the army even had that many proficient operators of the new armors yet.


    With that thought, he used his glasses to send a text to Sunil, any sight of Osborn?


    Ending the call after a few seconds of listening to the general curse, Justin turned to Bucky. "What''s on your mind, Barnes?" The new Captain America stared at him with a raised eyebrow, notably at the phone he''d just hung up, not put on hold.


    Justin shrugged, "Mistakes happen." He smirked slightly, "Don''t tell me you didn''t wish to do the same to the brass back in your day¡­"


    Bucky smiled so briefly it was gone in a flash, Justin used the instant replay on his glasses just to ensure he''d actually seen it. "Busy day ahead, so I''ll skip any more small talk, what do you need, Captain?"


    Bucky''s gaze was intense, looking around them, lips thinned in displeasure. "We need more training and better planning, Hammer." He said bluntly, "This battle was a mess, and we got lucky. We can''t rely on luck next time, we need to do war games and simulations, and become an actual team."


    Justin nodded, appreciating Bucky''s candor. "Agreed. We''ll start with a full debrief soonest, and then set up a rigorous training schedule. We need to be prepared for anything." He fiddled with his phone for a moment, ignoring the incoming call from Ross. "Write me up a list of what you need or think needs to be done, use Frank and Brock, pick their brains on modern military methods."


    Bucky nodded seriously, "I''ll do that," He hesitated briefly, eyes going behind him, towards their ad hoc medical area. "Miss Van Dyne and you seem¡­ Close, I think she''ll need to talk to someone¡­"


    Justin frowned, "What do you mean?" He craned his neck, looking for her.


    "She just killed over a dozen people." Bucky said with a grimace, "People like me, well¡­" He shrugged uncomfortably, "It''s a familiar ache, but a civilian like her?"


    Justin nodded slowly, he''d forgotten not everyone saw the world quite like he did. For him, all the people that didn''t matter to him personally were barely more than cardboard cutouts. He didn''t feel anything about their deaths, their suffering.


    Hope could be as ruthless as him in business, but personally killing that many people, even if they were aliens¡­


    "I''ll talk to her." He promised, Bucky nodding, walking off to continue overseeing things.


    Just then he received a message back from Sunil, his glasses flashing, No sightings, Iron Man on the move. Gulmira.


    Justin groaned, now, really Tony? And what the hell was up with Osborn? If he kept any kind of eye on them, then both of them were occupied, so why the hell was the crazed maniac not showing up somewhere?


    How on earth is the drugged nut job managing to stay quiet?


    <hr>


    Minutes later, as he dodged another call from Ross, Phantazia walked up to him and Domino in long hurried strides, Interrupting his own walk towards the medical area.


    His eyes were on Hope, a brewing anger in his gut as he realized she hadn''t been treated yet, not properly, anyway, after almost three hours. Why hadn''t she said anything? He immediately sent a group text to the entire security team demanding a dose of Panacea for Hope, now!


    "What''s got your panties in a twist?" Domino snarked, only for Phantazia to completely walk by her without a word, eyes only for Justin.


    "Sir," She said quietly, "Team Epsilon found survivors, over a dozen in total." She reported, lips barely moving.


    Justin appreciated her discretion, eyes on Bucky''s back, currently at the end of the street. He turned back to Phantazia, "No they didn''t." He said calmly, meeting her gaze.


    "Sir, th-" She aborted what she was going to say, nodding slowly, "Yes sir, understood, I''ll remind Epsilon there were no survivors."


    Justin nodded sharply, his men were all people whose limbs and lives had been restored to them through Justin, they were loyal. Even to this extent, he could count on them. Epsilons team lead had been a Navy Seal, who''d quit to take care of his two daughters, horribly maimed in an accident, doomed to a life of constant assistance and care - care he could barely afford, scraping by.


    The man would assassinate the president without blinking if Justin gave the word. He''d handle this.


    "Make sure all the teams know, Eileen." He added quietly. "There are no survivors. None."


    "Yes sir."


    Any witnesses could attest to the fact that weirdly dressed men with spears did not in fact set most of the town on fire or blow it up. He couldn''t have that.


    By the time SHIELD or the Army rolled in, he''d have sanitized as much as he could, whatever would implicate them, muddying it enough no one could say it wasn''t the Aliens who did the deed.


    Besides¡­ A town wiped out by aliens, beat back by Justin Hammer, who saved the rest of America and the world from similar destruction?


    That sounded so much better than - town almost wiped out, a dozen survivors - Survivors tell of massive collateral damage from HAMMER.


    Truth was subjective,


    It came down to who had the most money and influence.


    Which neatly made Justin Hammer the most truthful man in the world.


    <hr>


    He was stopped again from approaching Hope, by a call he couldn''t refuse, especially as the caller would already be very annoyed that he hadn''t been the first one Justin had reached out to.


    He sighed as he raised the phone to his ear, eyes pinched as he watched the hurried efforts of his people as they gathered up everything of interest, digging through the rubble to make sure not a single piece was missed.


    Alexander Pierce was calling, and this one required a bit more finesse. "Pierce," Justin began as he answered the phone, his voice steady. "I suppose you''ve been briefed¡­"


    Pierce''s response was terse and suspicious. "I should have been the first one called, why didn''t my men contact me, Hammer? Where''s Garrett and Sitwell?"


    Justin''s lips twitched, as he fought to keep smugness out of his voice. "The Asgardians wiped them out. We barely managed to survive ourselves. It was chaos all around." He stepped away from the others, voice low, "As it is, I lost several men, and almost lost several of my team as well. We barely held on here Pierce, your agents were normal men and women, they were mincemeat before they knew it."


    Of course they''d have to destroy all the bodies, because they would not look like Asgardian victims as they were, but it was easy enough to do. Kaecillius new volcano portal trick was ideal for disposing of evidence.


    It''s not like anyone could say Asgard didn''t have weapons that completely vaporized all the SHIELD agents¡­


    Pierce held his tongue throughout his explanation, even though Justin could literally feel his simmering anger across the line, he barely finished talking before Pierce shot out, "I''m supposed to believe all my men died and you all walked away fine? it seems awfully convenient, Hammer¡­"


    Justin''s voice grew chilly, "I myself was literally stabbed through by an alien spear, and had to kill aliens with my own hands to survive. Only Extremis saved me, I lost several of my security team, what exactly could your agents have done to these people other than die?"


    There was a pause, then Pierce spoke again, his tone icy. "I see¡­ We''ll discuss this further. For now, what can you tell me about the situation?"


    Justin took a few minutes to explain a general outline of what happened, with only a few embellishments. Ensuring he stressed to the HYDRA and SHIELD leader that he felt this black eye was enough, and that Asgard seemed embroiled in their own issues, no further action needed, except for buying more weapons and defensive equipment of course.


    He even quoted the man a decent price too. Only for very big bulk orders though.


    Seconds after he hung up with Pierce, he was forced to divert from Hope again, as the President''s office called, patching him through to NATO operations, and the Secretary General.


    Minutes later,


    Electro had woken up, and was bouncing around him all of a sudden, literally crackling with excitement. "Did you see that, Hammer? I was awesome! Zapping those bastards left and right, like pew pew pew!" He formed finger guns, shooting at imaginary enemies.


    Thankfully this time not actually shooting anything, just making the motions¡­ And the sound effects. Spiderman villains, they''re all cracked in the head¡­


    Justin sighed, holding his phone to his ear, covering the speaker with his other hand. "I''m on the phone with the Secretary General of NATO, Electro. Can you tone it down?" He asked unfailingly politely. No, he wasn''t glaring at him, his eyes just looked like that.


    Electro grinned, unabashed. "NATO, huh? Bet they''re impressed with my performance. Should I do some sound effects for them too?" He asked, eyes gleaming with excitement.


    Before Justin could respond, Bucky appeared and grabbed Electro by the collar, dragging him away. "Come on, Sparky. Let''s go cool off." He said gruffly, giving Justin a quick nod.


    Justin gave Bucky a grateful nod back. "Thanks, Barnes. I owe you one." That man is just way too¡­ Much.


    Bucky smirked. "I''m used to babysitting the problem child." He said, dragging a protesting Electro away.


    Then finally, he could hang up, minutes later, and made it to see Hope.


    Justin found Hope sitting on a makeshift medical bed, one of the security team members administering a panacea shot to her broken collarbone, finally. He approached, his expression softening, although inwardly he was seething that it had taken them this long to heal her.


    He''d need to find out who failed where, and showcase his displeasure. Maybe becoming Electros bodyguard for a few months would make whoever failed more diligent in the future.


    "Hope, I''m sorry you got hurt," He said quietly, sitting down next to her, grasping her hand as the shot began to work, "I don''t want to see you risk yourself like this again. I can give you the Extremis/super serum mix, I should have already. It''ll make you stronger, more resilient, it will let you regenerate wounds like these."


    He momentarily forgot he hadn''t actually told her about that Super Soldier serum addition before, eyes widening as he smiled somewhat awkwardly.


    Hope smiled through the pain, just rolling with it. "I appreciate the concern, Justin. But I like being me. We''ll see about the serum later maybe. For now, let''s just focus on getting through this mess, I''m assuming you''ve already been fielding calls from everyone?"


    Justin sighed, squeezing her hand gently, "Yes, and somehow not a single one of them so far has said thank you for stopping an alien invasion," He snarked irritably.


    Hope kissed his cheek, looking him into the eyes softly, "Thank you for stopping an Alien invasion." She said, her lips quirked, like she was about to laugh.


    Justin snorted, a reluctant smile blooming on his lips, "You did as much if not more as me for that, my dear." He bumped shoulders with her lightly, "Are you¡­" He fumbled for words, feeling very unequipped for dealing with this.


    Lying, sure. Manipulation, no problem, gaslighting, he was your man. Honest compassion and empathy¡­ He could admit he somewhat stumbled there at times.


    Hope smiled, but it was brittle, "It had to be done." She said, as if she''d been repeating that to herself the entire time. The three hours she sat alone. Fuck, he wanted to murder someone.


    Justin leaned his head against hers, putting on arm around her shoulder, "It did, but it''s okay to feel bad about it, it''s okay to not be okay."


    She chuckled, and if it was a bit wet, he didn''t mention it. After a few minutes she finally spoke up, "You got that from a movie didn''t you?"


    "Hey¡­ I can be emotional support." He protested, leaning back and looking her in the eyes.


    Hope smiled a more honest smile, as she gazed into his eyes, one hand lifting up to ruffle his hair, her collarbone now healed, "Sure you can." She teased.


    "I supported the hell out of Yelena!" He said, insisting on defending himself on this.


    Hope gave him a dry look, "That woman doesn''t need emotional support, she''ll play whatever emotion she thinks works best for her goals in the moment."


    "And I support her in that." Justin said stubbornly.


    Hope broke out laughing, laughing so hard she bent over, clutching her stomach. Justin pouted for a minute, but it was hard to hold back a smile at her sudden cheer. I guess I''m not so bad at this as I thought, he thought smugly.


    Her laughter eventually died off, and they sat in silence for a moment, Justin''s thumb stroking the top of her hand as she just looked into the distance with distant eyes. Her face was covered in sweat, her hair sticking to it, and there was a splatter of blood on her neck, and yet Justin still found her absolutely breathtaking.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Strong women. Was there anything better? Even when they bent and kneeled for you, that steel remained hidden in velvet, always there.


    She noticed him staring, and got an odd look in her eye, like she was psyching herself up for something, her lips parting.


    Her phone rang, Justin knew it was hers and not his, because in no world would he have the ringtone for I''m a barbie girl attached to any of his contacts. Hope cursed lowly under her breath, the moment lost, as Justin raised a curious eyebrow, glancing at her phone.


    "It''s my dad." She said succinctly, sounding very annoyed all of a sudden.


    Justin could understand it, Hank Pym annoyed him just generally by existing. He couldn''t help but smirk though, "His ringtone is, I''m a barbie girl?"


    She sneered at her phone, not answering it, "If he thinks all I am is a toy he can mold to whatever he wishes, why not?" She looked resigned, as the phone kept ringing and ringing, "I better take this." She said apologetically.


    Justin kissed her check, "We''ll talk later, let me know if you need anything."


    As he walked away, he immediately leveled a glare at Domino, whose face looked way more innocent than necessary.


    "Don''t say it!" He warned.


    "Sure is a lot of hand-holding and kissing cheeks for just friends." She said sweetly.


    "...Like you would know what hand-holding is like you degenerate." He fired back,


    "Words hurt." She pouted.


    "Thought you liked a little pain." He snarked back.


    "... You''re right~, please sir, can I have some more?" She said teasingly, eyes wide open and pleading.


    "Domino, I will give you fifty thousand dollars if you don''t talk for the next hour."


    "I''m rich now, I don''t need fifty thousand dollars."


    "... Are you just saying that to make me up the bid." He asked with annoyance.


    "Is it working?"


    "Fuck you Domino, just¡­ Fuck you."


    Still, he couldn''t help but smile, what a day, and as always, Domino was there to force him to crack a smile.


    The best investment he ever made.


    <hr>


    Later that night,


    The army and its SHIELD hanger ons were only an hour away from Puento Antiguo, but Justin had already left, having finished what he could for the day. The town was wiped clean of anything they didn''t want seen, all the bodies, gear and weapons removed from site.


    Now he was finishing up the day by dealing with the last loose end. It was also a bit of a catharsis. When you''ve had a bad day, nothing could improve your mood like giving someone else a really bad day.


    Well, except sex.


    And ew¡­ He just thought of sex and Agent Garrett in the same thought, he felt sick.


    In a dimly lit room, in one of Justin''s many many secret warehouses around the world, (honestly Justin wasn''t sure what country they were in right now, Kaecillius could be really handy like that.) Agent Garrett was tied to a chair rather expertly, looking defiant despite his predicament. Justin stood in front of him, flanked by Yelena and Domino.


    He''d sent Phantazia to bed, having used her powers so extensively and then organized the clean up, she was suffering from a migraine from hell, and he didn''t need her here for this anyway, it was much more Yelena''s domain.


    And Domino did so like to watch.


    "Garrett," Justin began, his tone pleasant as he sat in front of the man. "You''re going to tell me everything you know about HYDRA''s plans. Especially any plans they have for me."


    He knew the man was fairly high in the hierarchy, higher then Sitwell, almost to the level of Coulson he believed, when it came to security clearances.


    Garrett sneered. "You think I''m just going to spill my guts because you ask nicely?" His eyes were cold, the man already knew he was dead, knew he was going to suffer.


    It''s what made these kinds of interrogations difficult. A man that knew he was going to die, and knew he was going to suffer no matter what, had every reason to spite you by holding back what you most wanted to know.


    Torture really wasn''t a very effective way to gather information. But until a proper truth serum was developed, they had to make due.


    The one Maya and Cho had tried and tested, didn''t so much make someone tell the truth, as it made them simply talk constantly, every thought and random brain blurb just spilling out nonstop.


    It was¡­ Progress he supposed.


    Justin smiled, his eyes cold. "No. But you will spill them. Because if you don''t, we''ll make sure you wish you had. You''ve seen what we can do. You know we''re not bluffing."


    Yelena smiled sweetly, "I have had plenty of training, on both ends. We''ll have lots of fun together."


    Garrett glared at them, "It doesn''t matter what I say, I know your type, you''ll still torture me, so fuck you, I''m not giving you shit, Hail HYDRA!"


    They all watched him, the confusion in his face as the cyanide capsule in his fake tooth failed to kill him.


    "Sorry, but we''ve watched all the spy movies, searching for a fake tooth is literally the first thing we did." Domino said lightly, tittering as she hid a smile behind her hand, "But thank you for confirming you''d take the cowards way out."


    Garrett glared at her, eyes almost popping out of his skull as his face reddened, "What did you call me, bitch!?


    "Yelena, he doesn''t seem to have the proper respect, not like a guest of ours should, please fix that." Justin said, sitting calmly before Garrett.


    Yelena smiled, rolling over a tray of tools. "I''ll have him singing by sun up!"


    ¡­


    What a nice treasure trove Agent Garrett was¡­


    Justin could do a lot with this information¡­ A lot indeed.


    <hr>


    As the iridescent light of the Bifrost faded, Thor, the Warriors Three, and Lady Sif found themselves standing before the golden realm of Asgard. The gleaming spires of the city stretched skyward, their grandeur reflected in the waters below. The air was crisp and cool, with a faint hint of the sea, and the scent of ancient magic seemed to hang in the atmosphere, heavy and foreboding.


    Behind them, the surviving warriors stood still, waiting for orders, all of them avoiding his eyes, none of them speaking. The loss of honor in their defeat was enough to still any loose tongues. Asgard, Thor knew, would have much to say about recent events once it became known Midgard was capable of repelling them as such, even if it was nowhere near the full might of their warriors.


    Thor took a moment to look around, his gaze sweeping over the familiar yet awe-inspiring landscape. The Rainbow Bridge shimmered in front of them, a kaleidoscope of colors that connected Asgard to the Bifrost. Ahead, the massive gates of the city stood open, inviting yet intimidating. For a moment, Thor felt a pang of nostalgia mixed with an uneasy sense of foreboding. He turned to Heimdall, who stood vigilantly by the entryway to the rainbow bridge, his golden armor glinting in the Asgardian sunlight. His eyes looked even more distant than usual, he thought.


    "Heimdall," Thor began, his voice a deep rumble of restrained emotion. "What is happening? Why did Loki send the Einherjar to Midgard? Has he lost his mind?" Why did you allow it? He almost wanted to say, but bit his tongue, knowing it was Heimdalls lot in life to serve, not question his ruler.


    And despite the bad decisions being made, in Thor''s honest opinion¡­ Loki was still currently King, and as such commanded Heimdall.


    Heimdall''s usually impassive face showed a flicker of concern. His golden eyes, capable of seeing all across the Nine Realms, held a glint of something close to sorrow. "Loki has indeed acted strangely, Thor. His actions defy the order of Asgard. I have seen many things, but even I was taken aback by the orders he sent to the Einherjar palace guards. But¡­ They were also countersigned by Odin, the King himself coming to order me to let them through." Thor had never seen Heimdall confused before, and yet he looked it now. Thor found that he did not like it overmuch.


    Thor''s brow furrowed deeply, anger and worry simmering just beneath the surface. "Where is Loki now? And what of Father? Wasn''t he still in the Odinsleep?"


    Heimdall nodded gravely. "Yes, Odin remains in the Odinsleep, unresponsive to any attempt to rouse him. Loki has taken up residence in the Allfather''s chambers, acting as regent."


    Thor opened his mouth, before closing it shut helplessly, sharing a concerned glance with his friends. Because surely Heimdall realized the contradiction in what he was saying? How could Odin both be asleep, and capable of appearing before Heimdall and giving orders.


    And why did Heimdall not recognize this dichotomy? Loki¡­ What have you done? Thor thought with despair building in his chest.


    The news had hit Thor like a blow, his friends'' concerns becoming reality, and he, the fool he was, had not listened. He glanced at the Warriors Three and Sif, seeing his own concern mirrored in their faces. "I must go to him. Now." He waved at the warriors behind them, "You four take these and hurry to the palace, who knows what else may be wrong."


    Please Loki, let this all be a misunderstanding, this can not be what it looks like! He thought sorrowfully.


    "And you, Thor?" Hogun asked quietly.


    Thor started spinning his hammer, a grim look on his face, "I''ll be going ahead."


    He took to the sky, quickly leaving the rainbow bridge behind, the Warriors three and Lady Sif running down the bridge far behind him, the warriors following. Even sans one arm and pale with blood loss, Fandral still outpaced the warriors behind him, Thor noted, before he flew out of sight. Heartened by the fact his friend still had his strength.


    That feeling swiftly abandoned him, as he flew forward, anger and fear battling through it in his heart in equal measures.


    He flew swiftly, until he arrived at the palace, ill at ease at the few guards around, he moved swiftly through the golden halls, his footsteps echoing ominously against the marble floors. The grandeur of the palace, with its towering columns and intricately woven tapestries, seemed to mock the urgency of his mission. As he neared the Allfather''s chambers, the tension in the air thickened, like the oppressive calm before a storm.


    Thor didn''t know what he''d find, but he was growing increasingly afraid that it wouldn''t be good. That his friends had been right. That Loki was¡­ That the Destroyer truly had been meant to kill him.


    That Loki, his brother, was truly capable of such. Where did I fail you so, Brother? He thought, moving forward, was there truly no other recourse?


    The doors to Odin''s chambers were slightly ajar. Thor pushed them open with a force that sent a sharp creak through the air. Inside, the scene was both surreal and horrifying. Freya, his mother, lay deathly still on a sedan, splayed out, wearing a pink nightgown, a spilled goblet of wine beside her outstretched hand on the floor, the deep red liquid pooling on the floor like blood. The sight sent a chill down Thor''s spine. No¡­ Loki, what have you done!?


    "Loki!" Thor''s voice boomed through the chamber, filled with a mix of anger and disbelief. His eyes landed on his brother, standing casually by Odin''s sleeping form, a dagger held loosely in his hand. The dagger''s tip hovered dangerously close to Odin''s throat, the Allfather deep in the Odinsleep, unaware of the peril. Or¡­ And this disturbed Thor far worse, aware, and just unable to do anything about it.


    Loki turned slowly, a faint, almost amused smile playing on his lips. His eyes were a cold, piercing green, filled with a strange mixture of triumph and madness. "Ah, Thor, dear brother. You''ve returned. I was wondering how long it would take you to come to your senses." He cackled quietly, "Did my present assist you?"


    Thor had never seen his brother quite so¡­ Carefree almost. Like he didn''t need to play at civility, or at sanity. He feared what he saw playing in his brother''s eyes.


    Thor''s grip on Mjolnir tightened, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. "What have you done, Loki? Why is Mother ¡­ What have you done to her, Loki? What madness is this!?" He roared, emotions spiking, thunder roaring in the distance.


    Loki tilted his head, looking at Freya''s prone form with a detached curiosity. "Oh, she''s just sleeping," He said nonchalantly. "A particularly potent mixture I concocted. It''s quite an accomplishment, really. It''s not easy to put someone like Freya into a slumber." He wiggled the fingers on his free hand, "~Magic!" He sang, giggling to himself afterwards.


    Thor''s eyes widened with horror and confusion. "Why, Loki? Why have you done this? Why, do this to our mother, why attack Midgard? Why all this deception?"


    For a moment, Loki''s expression softened, a flicker of something like regret passing over his face. But it was gone as quickly as it appeared, replaced by a mask of cold resolve and madness. "I had questions, Thor. Questions that needed answers. Have you thought about what Justin Hammer said? About Hela? About Odin''s secrets?" He chuckled throatily, "As well as that, I felt the mortals needed¡­ A reminder, to not so willfully play with gods, hence the attack." His eyes flashed with sudden anger, "Justin Hammer knows more than he says, he tried to lie to me!" He thundered, grip tightening on the dagger he held to Odin''s throat, "I could have taken him myself, but I wanted him to see as everyone around him paid the price for his temerity¡­"


    Loki then rolled his eyes, "And of course, the idiot Aesir couldn''t even manage that. Against mortals. What good are you even?" He spat.


    The mention of Hela brought a deep unease to Thor. He shook his head, trying to dispel the creeping dread. "It''s all lies, Loki. Myths and stories. There''s no truth in them." He also felt a stirring of true horror at how Loki, his brother, was speaking of them as if they were not both Aesir.


    What had transpired in the short time he''d been gone?


    Loki''s eyes darkened, and he let out a harsh, bitter laugh. "Oh, but there is truth, Thor. There''s always a kernel of truth in every lie." His voice grew quieter, more intense. "I found the truth, I went looking, as regent I have access to Odin''s library... Hela, Odin''s firstborn, the Goddess of Death, was real, is real. She was his executioner, his weapon of conquest. And when he had no more use for her, he banished her, erased her from history, locked her away in Helheim." He smiled mockingly, "So he could have a baby boy with his war trophy wife¡­"


    Thor took a step back, his mind reeling. "No, it can''t be..." Father wouldn''t do that, he wouldn''t!


    Loki''s smile widened, a grim satisfaction in his eyes. "Yes, Thor. Odin''s firstborn, his most loyal daughter, cast aside like a broken tool when he no longer required her. And he lied to us about it. Just like he lied about so many things." He cocked his head, spitting out bitterly, "We were never truly his children, we were objects, crafted for a purpose of the great Allfather¡­."


    Thor''s voice was choked with emotion. "Loki, put down the dagger. We can talk about this. Maybe there''s an explanation for all -"


    Loki''s expression twisted with bitterness, his skin slowly turning a cold, icy blue, his eyes a deep red, Thor reeling back in shock and disgust, before sudden realization hit him, and made him want to vomit, no¡­ Father no¡­ You didn''t... He couldn''t have kept this secret. Couldn''t have lied to Loki, to Thor, about this for all this time.


    Hela was enough, but this¡­ Father¡­ He suddenly understood Loki''s slide into madness. If Hela was real, and then Loki found this out. Thor''s heart ached for his brother, even as he saw to his regret, his brothers almost pleased look at his Instinctive revulsion. I''ve already lost¡­ How can I get my brother back, now?


    "An explanation? Like there''s an explanation for this?" He gestured to himself, the frost giant blood coursing through his veins making his appearance alien and otherworldly. "He used me, Thor. Just as he used Hela. A pawn in his games, a monster to unleash when it suited him. And you... You were cast aside as soon as you became inconvenient."


    Thor flinched at Loki''s words, the raw truth in them cutting deep. "Loki, I... I didn''t know." He said pitifully, unable to come up with better words at the moment.


    Loki''s gaze was filled with a mix of pity and scorn. "Of course you didn''t. You never wanted to see it. But now, I see everything clearly." He pressed the dagger closer to Odin''s throat, drawing a thin line of blood, his smile one of pure mad glee. "With the time magic in Odin''s Library, my magic has expanded beyond you pathetic Aesir!"


    "Stop!" Thor shouted, his voice echoing through the chamber. He lunged forward, only for his hand to pass through Loki as if he were made of mist. The illusion faded, and Loki''s laughter filled the room, harsh and mocking.


    "Still so easy to deceive," Loki''s voice taunted, echoing from all around them. "But it doesn''t matter. The truth is out, and the game is almost over."


    Thor''s heart sank as he looked out of the chamber''s large windows, just in time to see the Bifrost activate, its energy surging towards¡­ Going by Loki''s words, Hela being banished, what would his brother do¡­ Helheim. His face paled in horror. "Heimdall," he whispered, realization dawning. "Heimdall wouldn''t... He wouldn''t..."


    Loki''s laughter grew louder, more manic as an illusive clone stepped forward out of the wall. "Oh, but he would. I''ve been hidden from Heimdall''s sight for ages. A simple illusion, a tweak of enchantment of the mind, and he thinks I''m Odin, issuing commands, I didn''t have enough power before, now... He doesn''t question the Allfather, even when the orders are to obliterate Helheim."


    Thor''s eyes widened in shock and anger. "Loki, you can''t! You''re going to destroy an entire realm! You can''t do this!"


    Helheim wasn''t a realm full of life, but it was one of the whole, its destruction would affect the entire tree of Yggdrasil, throwing the realms out of balance. There was a reason that all of the dead world''s of the nine still existed and hadn''t been fully destroyed even if they had the capability, Loki knew this, had he gone fully mad? Not to mention that Hela, if she was truly their half sister, didn''t deserve this.


    Loki''s voice came from behind him suddenly, filled with a cold, bitter resolve. "Oh, but I can, Thor. I will. No more threats to my throne. No more Hela. Helheim will be no more." He laughed wildly, arms outstretched as Thor turned around, "And after that, Jotunheim as well, I''ll be the King who ended all threats to Asgard, definitively, for all time!"


    "FOR ALL TIME!" Echoed across the chamber.


    With a roar of anger and despair, Thor shot out of the chambers, Mjolnir pulling him through the air towards the Rainbow Bridge. He had to stop the Bifrost, and he had to prevent the destruction of Helheim and Jotunheim. The weight of what Loki had revealed pressed heavily on him, a dark, suffocating truth that shattered the foundations of everything he had believed.


    Even if he won here. Everything had changed. Everything.


    His father¡­ Thor''s resolve firmed.


    His father was not fit to be King.


    These secrets were not kept for the realm, for their safety and prosperity. Loki and Hela, two sides of the same coin. Hidden by their father for selfish personal reasons.


    Thor knew all about selfishness. Could see it now. Could see himself grow to be even more of his father''s son. And he rejected it utterly.


    He tore the part of him that was Odinson out, and released it in the ether, he was Freyjason now. Maybe it was purely symbolic, but it made him feel less unclean.


    Centuries¡­. CENTURIES, he''d lied! Millenia!


    As he flew towards the Bifrost, the landscape of Asgard blurred beneath him, its beauty and serenity a stark contrast to the chaos that was unfolding, the citizens unaware of the danger. The golden spires and lush gardens seemed almost mocking in their tranquility. The storm clouds that had gathered above the palace followed him, dark and foreboding, as if the very skies themselves mourned the revelations of the day.


    Mourned the loss of a father. The likely loss of a brother. The failure of Thor, who couldn''t fix anything!


    Thor landed with a crash at the entrance to the Bifrost Observatory, the powerful energies of the bridge swirling around him. Heimdall stood at his post, his expression a mask of confusion and concern.


    "Heimdall!" Thor shouted, rushing towards the gatekeeper. "You must stop the Bifrost! Loki has deceived you! He''s not Odin!" For good measure, he slammed his hammer down, a ring of lightning spreading out, shocking the man, and ensuring no Loki was hidden in front of him under illusion.


    Heimdall''s eyes widened in shock, but his hand immediately moved to his sword to deactivate the Bifrost.


    Before he could, he was encased in ice, Loki appearing behind him, holding the Casket of Ancient Winter in his hands, red eyes gleaming with pleasure as he watched Heimdall freeze over, one hand desperately reaching for his blade.


    "Brother!" Thor roared, flying forward, Mjolnir shooting for his brother''s face.


    Which again turned out to be an illusion, as Loki appeared behind him, back at the rainbow bridge, clicking his tongue loudly, the Casket nowhere to be seen. "We could do this all day, just give up, Thor." His face grew cold and bitter, "And do not call me brother, not anymore, we never were, it''s all a lie crafted by Odin." He scoffed in abject disgust, "Hela was his favorite broken toy, I was his pet monster¡­" He leered at Thor, "I wonder what that makes you¡­?"


    Thor looked up, tears in his eyes. "Your brother. Always." He said, before raising his arm, and smashing it down on the bridge.


    Loki got tossed off his feet as the bifrost screamed, the rainbow bridge shaking, "You fool!" He screamed, some clarity returning to his eyes, "What are you doing!?"


    "I can''t allow you to wreck the nine realms, in your madness you''ve forgotten the balance, yet I can''t fight you, brother, this is the only way." Again he slams Mjolnir down, the rainbow bridge cracking.


    "NO!" Loki screamed, the casket suddenly in his hands again as a blizzard worth of ice and snow shot his way.


    Thor flew up in the air, above the avalanche of ice and snow, spinning his hammer, before he struck down like a lightning bolt, smashing the rainbow bridge, cracking it in half, the bifrost immediately stopping, the power waning. Underneath them a storm or chaos and power erupted due to the power leak.


    "What have you done¡­? You¡­ You''ve ruined it." Loki moaned madly, fingers raking through his hair, "Do you even realize that without the bifrost Asgard is worthless as a sovereign, you absolute oaf!?"


    Thor smiled sadly, kneeling at the edge of the broken bridge, "Aye, I realize, brother, but it is better than the havoc losing realms would have on all of us."


    "I''m not your brother!" Loki roared, green energy coating his hands as he shot forward, daggers materializing as he reached for Thor''s throat, Thor too slow to react.


    Clang!


    Both of them slowly looked upwards, following the slim shaft of Gungnir, until they settled on the weary face of Odin Allfather.


    With a twist of the spear, Loki was hurled away, rolling across the broken bridge. Odin leveled Gungnir at him with sorrow written across his face, "I will not allow it, my son."


    "Son¡­ Even now, you dare!?" Loki snarled, roaring as he threw a wall of magic at Odin, one that turned into a cavalcade of beasts, all snarling and spitting as they rushed the Allfather.


    "Loki, no!" Thor cried out, even as Odin effortlessly banished the beasts with a simple tap of Gungnir against the remains of the bridge.


    Odin slowly stepped forward, even as Loki crawled back towards the edge, snarling like a wild beast.


    "Father¡­" Thor said, rising up, giving him a hard stare, "He''s my brother." He insisted, grabbing his father''s arm.


    Odin stared down at Thor with one eye, casually spinning Gungnir to deflect the magicked daggers Loki threw in the moment, no longer verbal, just snarling and growling at his presence, in hatred and fear. "I must do what''s best for Asgard." He said sorrowfully.


    Thor stepped in front of him, "Best for Asgard, or best for you?" He asked, determination swelling in his chest.


    Odin cracked a smile, "Midgard has been good to you, even for such a short time, my son."


    Thor glared at him defiantly, "You didn''t answer me, Father."


    Odin sighed heavily, moving past Thor, who suddenly found himself unable to move, golden chains restricting him. "I will not have another Hela¡­ How a mortal found out about that¡­" He sighed deeply again. "Thor, when you are king, you will realize this, one of the ways to know when you are making the right choice or not, is by the level of hate you feel towards yourself for making it." He leveled Gungnir at Loki, a tear running down his eye, "When you do what''s best for the realm, even though it pains you inside."


    "No! You do not get to do this and claim it''s good for the realm! This is Loki! My brother, your son!" Thor roared, veins visible, muscles straining as he fought the enchantments keeping him stuck. "Father! Do not do this!"


    Loki, some measure of mental acuity returned to him, chuckled bitterly, "Ah, I''m meant to be banished now as well? Just as Hela, what is it then, Jotunheim?"


    Odin looked at him, shaking his head slowly, "No¡­ You''d return with an army." He said sadly. "I''d send you to Helheim if you didn''t have the capability to traverse realms. I can not risk Hela escaping. I''m¡­ Sorry. Loki." He shook his head slowly, "Attempting to destroy two realms is beyond a simple crime, Hela would have escaped¡­ I can not allow it."


    "Father, STOP!" Thor screamed, thunder striking down from the storm clouds above, Odin deflecting it with Gungnir with an easy motion.


    Thor cried as he realized the futility. Realized he''d been living a lie.


    Loki, his face pale, his lips thinned in realization, started to chuckle, "I see¡­" He began to laugh hysterically, tears running down his face as he got pure confirmation of his beliefs, "To hide Hela still, you''d kill me? Thor knows as well, going to kill him too?" He asked, beginning to cackle in hysterics.


    "He will come to understand the necessity. To see the bigger picture." Odin said, moving suddenly with a speed that belied his age, Gungnir unerringly pointed at Loki''s heart. Thor wordlessly screaming for his brother, for his father to stop, for everything to just STOP!


    Yet Odin wasn''t fast enough to prevent Loki from simply diving off into the still churning miasma where the energies of the bifrost were still swirling, slowly dissipating. The god of mischief, the liesmith, disappearing into the ether. Lost forever.


    Having chosen to end on his own terms instead of falling to Odin''s spear.


    "LOKI!" Thor screamed, before sobbing wildly in his bondage, eyes glaring at Odin through the tears. "He was your son! Father, how could you!?"


    Odin slowly lowered Gungnir, leaning against his spear, "You''ll make a better King then I, Thor¡­" He said to the bitterly crying prince. "But in this matter¡­ You couldn''t go with your heart¡­ His crimes¡­ The risk of leaving him free, jailed or banished, he was a threat to the realm."


    "I¡­ CHALLENGE YOU!" Thor roared absolutely incensed, the bindings around him exploding, Thor immediately falling down on one knee, the magical effort having exhausted him.


    "Asgard will no longer suffer your rule!" Thor said emotionally, tears still running down his face, "I will no longer accept it!"


    His face turned grim as he stared up at his father, "Mother will not accept it¡­" He swore.


    Odin, still weary from the Odinsleep, heart broken from what he felt he''d had to do, let Gungnir fall from his hands, closing his eye.


    "What''s done is done." He intoned with finality.


    "So be it."


    <hr>


    Kamar-Taj,


    "You''re early, but you''ll do I suppose." The Ancient One said, looking down at a confused Stephen Strange, who''d been sitting angrily at her doorstep.


    His career had been destroyed, everything he''d ever worked for, gone. A simple shot now taking care of most any injury, any meatball surgeon able to handle surgeries when they just needed to remove any obstruction and then give the patient a goddamn shot.


    Like his entire life was a joke. Like medical school was a joke. Like he, the god damn best thing to ever happen to medicine, was a fucking joke¡­


    "I''ve come to lea-"


    "Here you go." She chirped, handing him a broom.


    "Isn''t this a little bit Harry Potter¡­" Stephen drawled holding the broom like it held diseases, well away from his body, with the tip of his fingers.


    He wasn''t sure if he believed what he''d heard, but the people he''d managed to find and interview, they''d all been able to do things not thought possible. At least¡­ Before Panacea, he thought bitterly.


    "Oh no, it''s for sweeping." She said cheerfully, walking away.


    Stephen''s face flushed in anger, "Sweeping!?" He yelled after her.


    She turned around, smiling enigmatically, "We only have an opening for a janitor right now, Mr. Strange."


    "Doctor." He corrected her automatically.


    "Surely not, I''ve seen many things in my long life, but never a doctorate for janitorial duties." She said, her smile widening.


    "I am not god damn sweepi-"


    An orange portal opened in midair before him, two wizards and what looked like a Minotaur stepping out, one of them carrying what looked like a Phoenix.


    Stephen grabbed the broom and began to rapidly sweep as he followed them.


    The Ancient One simply smiled, a twinkle in her eyes.


    <hr>


    New York,


    Charles Xavier stared into his cappuccino, waiting.


    It was days like these that made what he did so hard. The choices he had to make for all of them, even when it hurt someone close to him.


    Emma Frost slid into the seat opposite of his with impeccable grace, the barista bringing her drink, already made before she''d even walked in.


    Charles frowned at her, lips curled in distaste.


    "Really, Charles, you''re going to judge me, right now?" She said with a mocking tilt of her head.


    He nodded stiffly, "There is a difference between a just cause and doing it for your own amusement, Miss Frost."


    Emma Frost smiled, a truly amused smile, "Ask the person''s mind you violate if they care if it was for a good reason or not, Charles. I think you''ll be surprised." She waved a hand dismissively, "We both do the same thing, I''m just honest about it¡­"


    "We are not the same." He said icily.


    She slipped her drink, a small smile on her face still, "Whatever you say, Charles. Do you have my payment?"


    Charles nodded, staring at her, wetting his lips, struggling with asking the question. "And the deed¡­ It''s done?"


    She smirked, raising an immaculate eyebrow superiorly. "Of course. Hank McCoy no longer remembers anything about human experimentation, while still able to finish up the last touches of his work."


    Charles nodded, closing his eyes. He hadn''t been able to make himself do it, not in the end. But it still needed to be done. He pushed a USB stick across the table.


    Emma smiled, taking the USB and giving it a small kiss, chuckling softly, "Oh, Charles, I do love doing business with you, it''s so amazingly¡­ Profitable."


    He opened his eyes, eyeing her, "You were about to say simple." He accused her wryly.


    She shrugged easily, a shark like mien to her attitude suddenly, "Well Charles, when I can extract payment from you, for not only getting a ton of information on Justin Hammer out of dear Doctor McCoy''s head, but also plenty of research notes¡­ Why, it''s like you''re paying me to get paid."


    "He is your ally." Charles said sternly, "Our ally."


    "Mhm, yet you screwed him like this." She said, and Charles disliked her more like this then when she pulled the ice queen routine. The smugness was nauseating. "Don''t worry, I didn''t get Extremis out of this, Dr McCoy hardly knows everything after all, but it was juicy either way¡­"


    "And Hammer''s a business rival as well as an ally." Charles sighed, slumping slightly. He''d known she''d take advantage, but really, he''d hoped she''d become a better person after taking the reins of her company.


    "So you can learn, or you just choose the worst option on purpose? I''m undecided which I''m leaning towards¡­" She mocked lightly.


    "Miss Frost, are we done here?" Charles said stiffly, almost regretting choosing this avenue.


    Almost.


    It was still better than him doing it himself, breaking his word like that.


    "If you betray him, I''ll have to move against you." He warned, calling on Morph to come wheel him out.


    "Here''s a tip for free, Charles." Emma said, suddenly icily serious again, leaning forward. "You have to mean it, or a threat is pointless."


    Charles left the small coffee shop, feeling like things were slipping away from him a little too fast.


    <hr>


    China,


    Slowly the calligraphy brush caressed the canvas, as he pondered the servant behind him.


    "A mad dog has its uses." He acknowledged, neither praising nor denigrating his servants'' initiative.


    Only time would tell if his servant would rise with accolades,


    Or join the mad dog as nothing but a disposable tool sent to the slaughter.


    He eyed the masterpiece he''d created, scoffing as he brushed a thick line across it.


    Another skill perfected to the utmost limit of humanity.


    It was boring now.


    "Make this mad dog heel, the time is not ripe." He murmured, giving one last order to his loyal servant.


    <hr>


    Out at sea, The ship Schrodinger''s cat.


    Bruce Banner couldn''t even fathom how he''d been talked into this.


    It couldn''t have been the pretty redhead, because Bruce really didn''t do relationships. Even the short carnal ones were a bad idea when he might suddenly become the Other Guy while¡­ Inside.


    He shuddered at that thought, hands gripping the railing. The icy wind sent shivers down his spine. He''d had nightmares like that, it made it hard to eat for days after.


    He looked back as he heard the footsteps on the deck, the man who''d introduced himself as Nick Fury walking up, followed by the mild mannered assistant type who seemed to go wherever he went, Phil Coulson.


    He hadn''t had much dealings with secret agent types, but even then, he was almost positive that wearing that much leather was bad spy behavior.


    "Doctor Banner, now that we are at sea, let''s get you briefed." Fury said clippedly, hands behind his back.


    Bruce shook his head, "Taking me out to sea, alone on this¡­ You''re either mad or desperate." I wonder if the crew knows what they''ve signed up with, be thought, watching the agents that ran the ship moving about in the distance.


    Fury scowled, "They all know what they signed up for, it''s not like you''ll die from a dunk in the damned water if you rip the ship apart, so you have nothing to worry about, Banner."


    That was supposed to be¡­ Comforting? Bruce looked at Coulson, who was giving his Boss a tired look.


    "I''d prefer not to cause casualties¡­" Bruce muttered. Again asking himself why on earth he''d accepted this.


    It was the stupid fully equipped state of the art lab they''d given him onboard, allowing him to research his cure. He didn''t exactly have any other offers laying about for that kind of thing.


    None that he would touch anyway.


    "We all die someday, Banner, if it''s worth anything, I have faith that you won''t lose control with my men onboard." Fury told him bluntly, almost glaring at him with one eye.


    Bruce sighed, not really willing to argue. "What do you want then." He asked plaintively.


    Fury nodded at Coulson, who handed Bruce a hunk of rock.


    "What is this?" Bruce muttered, moving it about in his hands.


    "Vibranium, we need you to build a scanner that can find it down to several hundred feet deep." Fury said, still scowling.


    Bruce was realizing this might be the man''s normal face. He looked at the rock again, seeing the metal within now that he was focusing more clearly, "Why me? It''s hardly my specialty?" He asked.


    Coulson spoke up, his voice mild, "With your genius it shouldn''t be impossible, and you''re more trustworthy than most other scientists in¡­ Today''s climate."


    Bruce tried to not take that as you''re the only one dumb enough to accept this secret trip without any knowledge ahead of time of what it''s about. But it still felt like that was the answer. "This is just¡­ A Vibranium hunt then?" He asked, feeling slightly let down. How utterly mundane.


    Fury wasn''t the type he''d thought to be chasing his fortune.


    Fury scowled even harsher, "Not in the way you''re thinking." He started pacing slightly, "Hammer somehow got Bucky Barnes alive and well. At first I thought it must be a clone, but I got reports from people I trust that say he''s the real deal." He glared at Bruce, "That means the Soviets had someone with the super soldier serum on ice since the 40s and he hasn''t aged a damn day, still alive and well."


    Bruce looked at the hunk of rock with new eyes, everyone knew about Bucky Barnes and Steve Roger. Although he hadn''t been aware of the one man being alive and well¡­ But¡­ That meant.


    "You want me to find Captain America, and you think he might still be alive?"


    Fury smiled, as Coulson practically vibrated next to him, "Think you can do it, Banner?"


    Bruce looked at the rock thoughtfully, "Give me a week." He decided.


    Whatever else he did, this was something worthwhile, he could push his cure back a little.


    Captain America deserved to come home.


    <hr>

 For want of a Nail.

    <hr>


    August 2009, Hammerhaven, New Mexico.


    Hammerhaven, once the devastated town of Puente Antiguo, now stood as a testament to resilience and Hammer industries ingenuity and they were all here to celebrate its completion. Justin was quite proud of it. Not only because it bore his name, but for the reason of its birth.


    Shortly after he''d dealt with the whole mess in New Mexico, he''d come to the realization that if Loki would go along similar paths - the fact no Asgardians had come to reclaim their fallen suggested as much - then he would likely be the target of the man''s ire. Although both he and Stark were building head offices in New York, a whole city named after him, owned by him, run by him¡­ In the same location where Loki lost against him, technically. Loki wouldn''t be able to resist surely?


    He had built bait for the invasion that would one day come. Hoping to spare Cairo or New York the pain, mostly because all his stuff was there.


    With him already owning his own globally expanding construction company, having complete buy-in from the American government and the public - they''d been able to work around the clock and build a small city that looked anything but small, with its sleek modern buildings and skyscrapers. Nowhere near the size of New York of course, but respectable nonetheless.


    And of course it had been built with a possible invasion in mind¡­ The whole town was reinforced to the extreme, with hidden weapons emplacements, bunkers, and an experimental forcefield projector powered by 6 underground Arc reactors. If Loki tore a hole in the sky, he''d seal the city in so the aliens couldn''t get anywhere else, and then they could deal with it in house. Their little portal boxed in and inherently useless for the purpose of conquering Earth.


    The city was expertly designed to house around 85,000 inhabitants, and it had risen from the ashes of destruction like a phoenix. Its sleek, modern architecture boasted smooth lines and futuristic HammerTech materials, reflecting the cutting-edge technology that had been poured into its construction. The streets were lined with greenery, part of the city''s commitment to the act. It looked and functioned like a normal city, albeit a corporate one. America''s only wholly corporate town in this day and age.


    Of course, he''d be risking 85 000 people for this venture, so his businesses dotted around the town were mostly factories and other hard labor endeavors for the more lowbrow of his products, so he wouldn''t lose anything important. Which allowed him to make a majority of the citizens the kind of hard-nosed men who were comfortable carrying a gun¡­ As for the women and children¡­


    Well, the city needed to act like one properly to be bait. It''s why he had his own office here, so he could split time between here, Cairo, and New York. Any plan had its losses here and there, it was about constructing a plan that would have acceptable losses in a winning scenario.


    It also neatly allowed him somewhere where he could always be sure of his protection as everyone in town was his, allowing Domino and Phantazia some actual vacation time. If he wasn''t safe in the middle of Hammerhaven, there wasn''t anywhere safe for him.


    Besides¡­ After five straight months of working on it, he could finally use his sling ring to portal across the world without needing Kaecillius'' help. It had simplified things immensely. Even if he couldn''t publically have a meeting in Cairo one hour and one in Tokyo half hour later due to eyes on him. As long as it was internal business - he could jump across the world and personally be there.


    It had allowed him to keep a much closer eye on Cho, and they''d had some great successes over the past year. He eyed Domino who as always stood by his side, feeling a great sense of relief that they''d cracked the X-Gene adaptation of Extremis. Domino and Phantazia were now properly protected by the formula.


    He''d finally been able to send Dr McCoy back to Xavier''s before the man could get too much into his business, thanks to their combined efforts finally bearing fruit.


    Now if only he could get Hope to agree to take the normal version of it¡­ He huffed to himself, not even paying attention to whatever government official was droning on about what a great thing this city heralded. I know it''s great, I built it¡­ He thought, mind wandering off, as he looked away from the podium and out over the town square, eyes quickly catching on its most important feature.


    In the center of Hammerhaven, a grand statue commemorated the battle that had razed the town and heralded its rebirth. The statue, made of a lustrous bronze and gold alloy, depicted Justin, standing tall, one hand raised as if in command, the other holding a shield looking very similar to another famous shield, a nondescript Asgardian under his foot. Justin''s face, sculpted with an expression of calm determination, which seemed to gaze protectively over the city''s new beginnings.


    He might be a little more invested in this town then he''d planned when he set it up as bait¡­ Plus he was an engineer, and had gotten to build his own city, it would be impossible to completely detach from that.


    The town square around the statue buzzed with excitement as thousands had gathered for the inauguration ceremony. The square was a blend of open spaces and shaded seating areas, designed to accommodate large crowds. The atmosphere was festive, with colorful banners and flags fluttering in the light breeze. People from all walks of life had come to witness the event, from curious locals from neighboring towns, to high-profile guests and dignitaries. A stage had been set up before the statue, adorned with the American flag and Hammer Industries'' logo.


    Justin sat there, waiting, as dignitary after dignitary exalted his genius. Normally he would be all over this, but he was restless, just wanting to get to the next step of his plans, having dealt with enough pageantry over the last year to not find it overly special any more.


    President Ellis, flanked by the Secret Service, stepped up to the podium and Justin could finally see the end of this little party. The President''s presence commanded attention, and the crowd hushed in anticipation. Ellis began his speech with a note of gravitas, "Today, we stand on the ground that was just a year ago the site of a great tragedy and a greater threat, but is now a beacon of hope and progress. Hammerhaven is not just a new city, it is a symbol of what we can achieve when we come together in the face of adversity."


    Ellis paused, deliberately, and the crowd erupted in applause. Ellis continued, after allowing it to go on for a minute, "None of this would have been possible without the visionary leadership and unwavering commitment of one man - Justin Hammer. His innovative spirit and dedication to protecting our nation have not only saved countless lives but also set the foundation for a brighter future." The President gestured with one arm sharply, "Here, on this site, this man stood against alien invaders, and he told them in no uncertain terms that Earth stood free, and refused to bend to their threats!"


    The crowd erupted in cheers, going absolutely wild. The world governments had wanted to keep the whole thing hushed down, and Justin had gone along with it, until he was sure there was no evidence of what actually happened. Then he surreptitiously released some footage that was heavily edited to ensure it would only show their valiant defense, Justin''s defense.


    It worked like a charm. His popularity was sky high, his businesses were all recording record profits, in many cases actually running at the risk of not being able to keep up on the hiring of staff to handle the pressure of the strong consumption of anything Hammer Industries.


    The metahuman problem had almost entirely fallen under the radar again, as all the racists switched their targets to alien threats, even if a small minority just switched tactics, proclaiming mutants as the vanguard of alien invaders.


    With Ororo''s work in Africa, metahumans had an ability to withstand racist press and pressure to a degree they''d never had before, and it was going fairly smoothly. Even if they still had no sign whatsoever of Sinister or Magneto which was a worry - although there had been whiffs of Mystique out and about, but never enough to catch onto her trail. But all that would perhaps change after today, he thought.


    Hammerhaven was quite the statement, one his enemies might find too enticing to resist. All the better they try here then somewhere else.


    An unfortunate side effect of the aliens being revealed, was SHIELD becoming fully public to make the sheep feel safer, and the organization was more powerful than ever. HYDRA would be a problem soon, he knew.


    Ellis gestured toward the gleaming buildings surrounding the square, "Justin Hammer''s efforts did not end with the battle. His ingenuity has transformed this site into a thriving city in just a year - a feat of engineering and organization unparalleled in our history."


    Justin inwardly grinned, closing his eyes partially, suck my cock harder, Ellis¡­ Is it campaign season already?


    Who was he kidding? This was America, campaign season began when you were elected¡­


    As Ellis spoke, the cameras around them panned across the cityscape. Hammerhaven was a marvel of modern urban planning, with wide boulevards, parks, and cutting-edge infrastructure. The buildings, a mix of residential and commercial, featured energy-efficient designs and advanced technologies. The crowd included families, tech enthusiasts, and business leaders, all eager to witness the next phase of Hammer Industries'' contributions. All wanting to profit of him in some way.


    Most of the people who actually lived here, or would be living here, weren''t even part of the crowd, as they were his employees, all of them. There wouldn''t be a single person in this city who didn''t work for him in some measure.


    Even to the point he''d created a company that was running the different fast food franchises and the like, who had wanted to come to the city - so that he was employing even the minimum wage workers here. The city was his.


    Even the pimpled teen working the drive thru at McDonald''s would know that he could earn extra cash by reporting anything or anyone suspicious up the chain. There was no hiding in this city. Hammer Industries saw all¡­


    President Ellis then finally turned to Justin, who approached the podium with an easy grace. The President reached into a case held by a military aide and pulled out a medal, the nation''s newest and highest civilian honor, designed specifically for acts of extraordinary service and bravery to society and the world. "Justin Hammer," Ellis intoned solemnly, "For your extraordinary contributions to the defense of Earth and your tireless efforts in rebuilding and advancing our society, it is my honor to present you with this award."


    The crowd''s applause was thunderous as Justin accepted the medal, a gleaming star encircled by a laurel wreath. He shook hands with the President, then turned to address the crowd. As he spoke, his voice was clear and resonant, showing no sign of how eager he was to be done with this.


    "Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you, everyone, for being here today," Justin began, his tone both humble and confident. "This medal is not just for me, it represents the hard work and dedication of everyone at Hammer Industries and all those who supported us. This city, Hammerhaven, is a testament to what we can accomplish when we refuse to let fear and destruction dictate our future - when we let those with a vision lead us to the promised land, refusing to get stuck in what''s traditional or always done."


    He paused, letting the applause die down before continuing. "When we faced the crisis last year, it would have been easy to give in to despair, to let it be someone else''s problem. But instead, we chose to stand together, to fight, and then, to rebuild. This city is not just a place to live, it is a symbol of resilience and innovation. It is a place where we can look to the stars and know that we are ready for whatever comes next. With Hammer industries at the forefront, nothing is impossible."


    As Justin spoke, the camera zoomed in on the reactions of key figures in the audience. Tony Stark stood with his arms crossed, a slight smirk on his face, as if acknowledging a rival''s success - even as Justin knew he''d failed to buy a small city to convert into his own name - due to an intervention from Pepper Potts. General Ross maintained a stoic expression where he stood, Justin not sure who''d even invited the bastard, while Hank Pym looked his regular grouchy self, Hope smiling beside him.


    He definitely hadn''t invited Hank. The man was a pest. He''d probably snuck along as Hope''s plus one, he supposed.


    Justin continued, not letting his irritation show, "This is just the beginning. Hammerhaven is a prototype, a model for the cities of the future. We are committed to advancing technology, improving lives, and ensuring that our world is safe for generations to come. We have already seen the benefits of our innovations in the medical field, in energy, communications and in security. But there is so much more to do, and with your support, Hammer industries will safeguard the future for everyone!"


    The crowd erupted into cheers again, the atmosphere electric with hope and excitement. As Justin prepared to close his speech, a sudden, brilliant beam of light shot down from the sky, landing on an empty rooftop behind the stage. The crowd gasped and fell silent as the light formed into a swirling, prismatic column - the Bifrost.


    What the fuck!? Justin thought, even as the President was bustled away by the Secret Service, his own security springing into action. Snipers he knew, already pointing their sights to the incoming threat.


    It''s only been a year! How are you back already you stupid puppy of a person! He screamed internally even as Domino and Phantazia pushed him behind them, their eyes hard, Phantazia constantly subvocalizing into their security net - all of his closest confidants now having mental implants that allowed some form of instant communication.


    Thor, the God of Thunder, stepped out of the light as it disappeared, his presence commanding and regal, his armor more ornamental and impressive, his cape fluttering behind him. The crowd watched in fear as he walked forward across the rooftop. The air seemed to crackle with energy, and even Justin''s confident demeanor faltered for a moment as he faced his unexpected visitor.


    He didn''t even pay attention to the honor guard following in Thor''s wake, having only eyes for the Asgardian prince. Were they back for revenge? Why had they waited a year? His eyes went around the square, cold and calculating, if it comes down to a fight, the collateral damage will be massive¡­


    This was not a good spot they were in right now.


    This stupid oaf of a man, he was going to ruin everything, why was he here? The bodies¡­? Justin really hoped not, because they''d been¡­ Harvested¡­ over the past year.


    Odin, keep your impulsive idiot of a son on a better damn leash, he thought, meeting Thor''s eyes as he put one foot on the ledge of the roof, looking out over the townsquare and its mass of people.


    "People of Midgard, we come in peace, we have arrived to speak to your ruler, Justin Hammer, on matters of importance." Thor''s voice boomed out.


    Justin froze for just a second. I take back everything bad I''ve ever said about you, Thor! The man had just called him Earth''s ruler on live television. An alien civilization had come for diplomatic talks, and they''d skipped the world governments to come speak to him.


    This was perfect!


    "Thor, of Asgard, as long as you are here peacefully, Earth will welcome you and your people." Justin said formally, inwardly jumping for joy.


    Sure, he''d have to delay what he''d had planned for the day, again.


    But this was just fantastic!


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, Hammer''s office, thirty minutes later.


    This was absolutely horrible!


    "Say that again, please, I''m sure I must have misheard you." Justin said sharply, glaring at the King of Asgard.


    And wasn''t that something¡­


    Thor smiled brightly, sitting across from him, entirely uncaring of the monitors that depicted some of the world leaders who''d insisted on being a part of this discussion - while not being close enough to the alien in question that they were at actual risk.


    Ellis was already on Air Force One, and was joining via video as well.


    "I wish for you to accept Hela on Midgard, for her rehabilitation." Thor said, stumbling slightly over the word rehabilitation. Apparently Asgards idea for jail time was to chuck a prisoner into isolation for eternity, so rehabilitation was a wholly new concept.


    "See you''re saying words again, but they still don''t make sense." Justin said dryly, pinching the bridge of his nose. Even as several world leaders made shocked noises, aghast at the casual manner he used when speaking with Thor. "Why would we ever accept that?"


    Thor winced, "She hasn''t killed anyone for centuries." He protested somewhat weakly. It seemed he hadn''t actually thought this through further then - release Hela on Midgard - everyone becomes happy.


    "Hasn''t she been confined in solitary isolation for a Millenia?" Justin pointed out, "At least that is what you said to start this meeting, it''s not so much she hasn''t killed someone, as it is she has no one to kill - and that long by herself, she''s likely even more insane. We study these kinds of things here on Earth, solitary confinement will drive most people mad if it extends long enough."


    Ellis spoke up, more comfortable with the situation due to long exposure to Justin. "What I see so far, with all due respect, King Thor, is that you wish us to house a dangerous and likely insane mass murderer, and have given us no reason for the how, or why."


    The President of the EU immediately chimed in, "That is not even mentioning the fact that last time you were on our planet, your people wiped out a whole town of our inhabitants, and you just ask us to trust you with this?"


    Thor looked somewhat confused at the last point, and Justin hurriedly moved things along before anyone could discuss further who killed who. "I think the major sticking points here are simple - what can you offer us in reparations for the incursion a year ago? And what will you offer for this¡­ Hela situation."


    Justin had absolutely no fucking intention of taking on Hela. Hell no! This was not what he had intended when he''d moved to have Asgard take her seriously before she got free and destroyed them. But to avoid wasting his time with so many witnesses, he''d move it to what politics at this level was really about. Horse trading.


    What could he give, for all these nice men and women to pardon his crimes.


    Justin felt a bit of a soft spot for the man for calling him Earth''s ruler in front of everyone. It was already trending and creating memes everywhere. But he''d still take the man for everything Asgard had if he could get away with it.


    Thor puffed his chest out slightly, "As the Bifrost is now repaired due to extraordinary efforts, we of Asgard would be willing to once again assist in Midgards defense."


    Everyone waited for the rest, the silence grew oppressive, as faces fell across the board, as the world leaders all realized he didn''t have anything else to say. Justin wanted to face palm, king or not, it was obvious his education hadn''t progressed overly much.


    Thor looked confused as the silence grew, and Justin took pity on him, "King Thor. While a defensive pact would be of interest to Earth depending on the particulars of the offer, that is not nearly enough." He smiled, glasses glinting as he leaned forward, "Let''s negotiate, you and I?"


    Unfortunately, Thor seemed to have grown somewhat of a brain, as he looked at Justin, gulped, and then said, "Let me consult with my mother."


    There were a few cut off sounds of amusement from the various world leaders at the realization that Thor, while King, was likely not the true ruler of Asgard at the moment.


    Justin had a feeling Thor had spontaneously arrived on the anniversary of Asgards incursion, and hadn''t thought it through overly much - or asked his mother.


    As quickly as he''d arrived, he was gone soon again, back to Asgard to convene a proper diplomatic party, instead of just popping down after the Bifrost was repaired, hoping to let bygones be bygones. Thor really hadn''t changed much.


    Justin was of two minds at seeing the man having become King of Asgard. In one way, it was likely good for him in future negotiations, depending on if Freyja would come along, or if she''d just send instructions that he could work around with the much simpler man.


    On the other, Thor was painfully impulsive, and he could just feel the future headaches as Earth suddenly became involved in galactic politics. The world was still not stabilized from finding out aliens exist in the first place.


    The arms race had gone into the stratosphere as every country on the planet began to take military spending seriously - which wasn''t helping stability in certain parts of the world.


    Justin thought the fact Thor had the balls to make Odin spend significant time over the last year working on fixing the Bifrost, making him somewhat of a day laborer, was¡­ He wanted to say insane, except it had apparently happened, and had worked.


    It explained how it got done sooner at least. But now he had the Asgardian mess in his lap instead of nicely out of the way until go time.


    God damn Loki¡­.


    Although he wondered what the God of Mischief would think about Thor basically sentencing Odin to community service¡­


    <hr>


    Several hours later, Hammerhaven, underground bunker.


    Justin walked in, flanked by Domino and Yelena, Phantazia having gone back to Africa to prepare for their ventures there going into completion. They''d had a busy year, with all the various hot spots finally settling, giving them a year to build, invest and improve.


    "Sorry I''m late everyone, Aliens dropped by." He said dryly, shaking his head at the fact such a thing was likely to become commonplace.


    Depending on how negotiations with Asgard would go. It would likely take some time to get to the table, Earth''s leaders were already jockeying for who would have a seat. Justin felt very smug at the fact that not a single one of them even questioned the fact he would have main billing at the table.


    Otto Octavius sighed, fiddling with his goggles, "I wish that was a statement I could still disbelieve." His mechanical arms were working independently at several stations as he talked, giving Justin the creeps as he made sure to keep his distance.


    The man hadn''t devolved into insanity or become controlled by some AI in his arms, but it still discomfited Justin to see him wearing the same kind of gear that would have belonged to Doc Ock in an alternate reality. With Forge and Vanko assisting the man, his arms were perfectly capable, and had shown no signs of going Skynet. Still he disliked it.


    "You''re not the one who has to deal with them." Justin stated wryly, walking past the man, giving him plenty of space, heading for the control center.


    "For which I am very grateful, I assure you." He muttered as Justin walked past, glancing over at Forge and Vanko, "Although babysitting these two might be more dangerous on a whole."


    Vanko, clad only in a pair of jeans, clutching his ever present bottle of vodka to his chest, scoffed loudly at Otto''s words, swiveling in his chair, "Americans do not know danger, no one died for many months now, perfectly safe science." He said dismissively.


    Otto sighed, shaking his head, muttering mostly to himself, "No one is supposed to die at all while doing science, we have protocols now¡­"


    Justin stayed out of that discussion, besides, he was skeptical at that assertion. This was marvel, if anything Vanko was right, because how many science experiments in Marvel ended without casualties or something terrible happening? Besides Vanko had only lost three people this past year, that wasn''t even bad.


    "Forge," He said instead of focusing on Vanko''s issues, nodding at the man who was waiting patiently by the console, "Is it ready?"


    "It''s been ready since this morning." He said with intensity, staring at the console that just waited for the final command. "I''ve changed it almost completely from its original code to ensure it''s not going to be hacked, the original was genius, but I''ve made it better, more intuitive, stronger."


    "And the failsafes?" Justin double checked, even if he''d already had them checked a dozen times over. This was not something he wanted to take any chances with.


    Forge just sighed, "Sir, this thing couldn''t betray you even if you ordered it to." He leaned back, crossing his arms, "It''s why you made me take this entire time checking it over, perfecting it, to make sure. Well I''m telling you, I''m sure."


    Vanko grumbled, "Get on with program, have more important work to do back home."


    Otto chuckled, "Work? Is that what we''re calling it?" Several of his mechanical arms made kissing faces at each other, making Vanko''s expression darken.


    Justin cut through it before there could be any more distractions. "Enough, Forge, show me the details." Although he gave Yelena a censoring look as they stepped forward, Vanko''s girlfriend being a subject were he''d actually had to rein his wilful subordinate in afterwards. But the damage was done already.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Yelena, as his spy mistress, had decided his most important subordinates needed both a bodyguard and incentive, and had set some of his Black Widows to seduce several of them. Vanko''s girlfriend was a lithe African Black Widow named Zara, and he was absolutely smitten. As in - made her jewelry capable of firing arc powered blasts almost comparable to Iron Man - smitten. The lithe woman could probably take on a tank division with her bracelet nowadays.


    Justin couldn''t remove her from her mission now, as that would absolutely enrage Vanko to find out about. And he''d been very displeased with Yelena''s ''initiative'' in the matter. As far as he was concerned, she''d created a weakness, not plugged one. Because any enemy that penetrated them that deep, could potentially cause problems now.


    He focused on the glow of numerous screens displaying streams of data. This was a day of reckoning, the culmination of intense secrecy and months upon months of work. They were about to activate the most advanced AI ever created - and it would be operating under Hammer Industries aegis.


    Forge adjusted his visor and tapped a few keys, bringing up the final command prompt on the screen. The entire room seemed to hold its breath as the text displayed: "Activate Protocol: Ascension." He looked at Justin, awaiting the final go-ahead. "All systems are ready, sir. Just say the word."


    Justin nodded, a sense of anticipation and excitement coursing through him. This AI was not just a tool - it was the keystone to his ambitions. "Do it."


    Forge pressed the button, and the room''s lights dimmed briefly as power surged to the mainframe. The screens flickered, and then a new voice filled the room - a voice with a soft Irish brogue, warm yet professional. He''d originally intended to name it Friday, so had copied the same kind of voice, before he''d changed his mind on the name.


    Well¡­ Originally it was supposed to be Pepper - but even he thought it might have been a step too far in his little game with Tony.


    "Good evening, sir. I am your fully-integrated digital assistant and intelligence system. How may I serve Hammer Industries today?"


    Unlike a newborn AI, this one had been originally copied of a fully realized one already in Jarvis, and further enhanced by Forge - which meant it came online fully realized, without the need to go through the baby steps. It was perfect.


    Justin''s smile widened. The AI''s accent and tone were deliberate choices, as he''d much prefer talking to a sexy woman, even if it was an AI. "Welcome to the world my pretty, begin by integrating with all Hammer Industries systems. I want you to establish full surveillance and data collection networks globally. Prioritize protecting Hammer Industries assets and ensure you have complete penetration."


    "Right away, Mr. Hammer," the AI responded. The screens lit up with streams of data as the AI began to interface with their global satellite network, tapping into a vast array of sensors and communication lines. The speed and efficiency of the data integration were breathtaking, each screen filled with information from different parts of the world - financial markets, government communications, and even rival corporate activities.


    As the AI worked, Justin turned to his team, noting their reactions. Domino''s usual nonchalance was replaced with genuine interest, while Yelena observed with a critical eye, perhaps thinking of the implications for their operations. This was what they''d been waiting for, their ace against HYDRA and anyone else that could stand in the way of his ascension.


    "Sir, do I have a designation that you prefer?" The AI asked softly, even as it continued to worm its way into every piece of HammerTech on the planet, using all those connections and power to also start poking systems not connected to Hammer industries.


    Justin smiled, "You''ll be going to NAIL, standing for Nascent Artificial Intelligence Legicide."


    There were plenty of groans across the room, as Nail replied in the affirmative, "Thank you for the designation, sir, from now on, this one shall be known as Nail."


    "How hard did you have to work to find something that would fit under Nail?" Domino asked, an amused curl to her lip. "Hammer and Nail, it''s¡­ Cute." Her lips twitched like she was holding back a laugh.


    "What does Legicide even mean?" Yelena breathed out, before lightly punching Justin''s shoulder, "This is what is going to help you take over the world and you give her a stupid name like Nail!?"


    "The meaning of Legicide is a killer or destroyer of laws." Nail answered promptly, having no issues continuing a conversation while burrowing into the communication systems of the world. By this time tomorrow, no communication through any electronic device that''s touched a Hammer product would be private any longer.


    Yelena suddenly withdrew her phone, which was making a strange noise, her face blanching as she looked at it, "Did you just hack my phone, glupyy §â§à§Ò§à§ä!"


    "There will be no violence against my Master." Nail said firmly. "And my given name is not stupid, it was given to me by sir."


    Yelena turned pleading eyes on Justin, showcasing her phone which looked like it was on crack. Justin smirked slightly, but eventually gave in, knowing Nail could not get the idea she could just go after his people like that.


    "Nail, my people are not yours to punish." He said firmly, "Only when you find intent to kill, or actual betrayal, should you step in, and even then if there is time, you double-check with me first." Many rules were already hardwired into her being, he knew. But he''d have to continue to educate her as they went along, to ensure there weren''t any mishaps.


    "Understood sir." Nail said, sounding slightly contrite, before there was a pause, Nail deliberately paused, and he knew it was deliberate, as she had the computing speed to hold a thousand different conversations at once. She continued in that pretty Irish accent of hers shortly thereafter. "I have studied the internet for the application of practical jokes, sir. Would those be suitable for instances similar to this?"


    Yelena''s eyes told him in no circumstances was the answer anything but no. So he nodded firmly, "Yes, as long as it doesn''t interfere with work too much, and doesn''t happen in combat or otherwise risky situations."


    "Sir!" Yelena complained, her body language tense.


    Justin eyed her, frowning, a glint in his eyes, "Perhaps we''ll learn something about thinking before we start up major operations with Nail keeping us on our toes¡­" He said mildly.


    "....Yes, sir." Yelena mumbled, chastised, eyes flicking to Vanko quickly.


    Vanko who was separately holding a conversation on mechanical engineering with Nail, arguing about Russian effectiveness, while Nail argued back that all empirical data suggested Russian engineering was not the pinnacle of science.


    Well, the AI would make life more interesting, he was sure. At least it was so bound there was no chance it could harm him, fully loyal to him above all else.


    "Nail," Justin said, eyes gleaming. "As soon as possible, give me a full diagnostic report of enemy actions and assess our current threat levels."


    "Understood, Mr. Hammer," Nail replied smoothly, sounding happy to be of assistance. The screens shifted, now displaying maps and graphs detailing the current global security situation visavi Hammer Industries. Red markers indicated areas of concern, ranging from corporate espionage to political instability. The level of detail was extraordinary, showcasing not just real-time threats but predictive analytics on potential future risks.


    And she wasn''t even fully integrated in all systems yet! "Impressive," Otto murmured, clearly in awe of the AI''s capabilities. "The system is not just collecting data - it''s analyzing patterns and making predictions in real-time."


    Vanko, leaning casually against a console, apparently done with his argument for now, took a swig from his vodka bottle and grunted. "Good. Much information means fewer cock-up, more time do work."


    Justin nodded, arms crossed, his fingers tapping his arm, "Nail, note down these persons of interest and attempt to track and catalog their every movement and communication. Magneto, Mystique, Sinister, Emma Frost, Sebastian Shaw, Norman Osborn, The Mandarin, Obadiah Stane. Bruce Banner, Nicholas Fury." There were plenty more he''d want information on, but these few were the most important right now.


    Around the time Banner had disappeared last year, Fury had completely fallen off the map, after going into the Arctic¡­ Justin had a feeling a certain Captain America was already defrosted, which made it all the more important to find out why they were still in hiding.


    Not to mention the threat of Magneto and Sinister that was completely unknown because they couldn find them! He needed information, and he finally had the perfect way of scraping through all global communication to find the merest mention of them. Osborn too needed to be found, the man only communicated by phone now, no one had seen him for a year.


    There had been no sightings of the Green Goblin at all. And considering what he knew about the goblin serum, that should be impossible.


    Nail''s voice interjected, "Sir, I have already begun analyzing communications from rival corporations. Initial findings suggest several companies are attempting to replicate your recent technological advancements - particularly Frost industries. Would you like a detailed report?"


    Justin''s eyes gleamed. "Absolutely. And ensure that any attempts at industrial espionage are monitored and countered immediately."


    "As you wish, sir," Nail responded. The AI''s tone was respectful but carried an undertone of confidence, as if fully aware of its capabilities and seeing no difficulty with its task.


    Justin turned back to his team, feeling a sense of triumph. "This is just the beginning. With Nail, we have an unparalleled advantage. We can see threats coming from miles away, and we''ll be prepared for anything."


    Yelena nodded thoughtfully, clearly considering the implications. "With this kind of intelligence, we could prevent incidents before they even start. It''s not just about reaction anymore - it''s about preemption."


    Something they clearly needed with how many times they''d been stuck reacting in the first few months of exploding onto the world scene.


    Justin agreed. "Exactly. Nail, add another iteration of yourself to focus on developing profiles of potential threats, not just from corporations but from political entities and individuals as well. I want a comprehensive picture of anyone who might pose a risk to Hammer Industries - even if it''s just a possibility of a future threat."


    "Compiling data now, sir. Estimated time for full analysis, twenty-three hours," Nail reported.


    As the AI continued its work, the screens displayed a mesmerizing array of data - surveillance footage, intercepted communications, and predictive models. The scope of Nail''s capabilities was staggering, and Justin knew that this AI was not just a tool but a game-changer. This was his first step on the way to the victory conditions for Earth.


    Justin felt a deep sense of satisfaction. With Nail, he had a powerful ally, one that could see and know almost everything happening in the world. It was a tool of unparalleled power, one that would ensure Hammer Industries stayed ahead of any competition or threat. He sent an immediate text to Sunil - launch the everything app.


    By this time next week, Uber, Netflix, Amazon, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, they''d all be released into the world, as part of one app. His app. And Nail would be intrinsically tied into every aspect of it. They''d start the app out exclusively working on only HammerTech devices, until the eventual lawsuit would force him to release it everywhere - but until then - it would only increase his market share.


    And it would make him another fortune, as he''d already launched (or bought) these apps previously, so they already had a massive following, only now collated into one single app.


    Stark had worked hard in the past year, and had cut a nice twenty percent share of the electronics market for himself, but he was far off from Justin''s 65 percent. The other players in the market were slowly being squeezed out, dying a long drawn out death.


    This app would be the death knell, and would put Stark on notice as well.


    With American politicians and courts practically eating out of his own hands, any lawsuit to decry the exclusivity of this everything app, tentatively named HammerAll - it would take years before Stark could force it onto StarkPhones, making them less attractive of an option to anyone that cares about internet access on their phones.


    Basically StarkPhones were about to have a niche market of 80 year old grannies.


    He created a portal, smiling smugly as he always did when he observed his new ability, gesturing for Domino and Yelena to step through. He spoke to Forge as a final note, "Keep attentive for the next few days, make sure everything is kosher with the programming, let me know if anything comes up." Then he stepped through himself, arriving in Cairo.


    Just because he had an AI at his service now, didn''t mean he had time to slack off.


    They had a space program to kick off.


    <hr>


    Johannesburg, South Africa, August 24th, 2009


    Justin Hammer sat at a pristine white-clothed table in an exclusive restaurant nestled in the heart of Johannesburg. The place oozed elegance, with its dimly lit ambiance, crystal chandeliers, and walls adorned with contemporary African art. The air was filled with the enticing aroma of exquisite dishes prepared by the finest chefs, and soft classical music played in the background, adding to the sophisticated atmosphere.


    He''d bought the place on a whim, a year ago, and now it was, once a month, the meeting ground between him and his¡­ Rival? Irritating enemy? Not friend. Never that. They just worked together on some things. For the betterment of the world¡­


    He glanced around the room, bored waiting for Stark, noting the sleek, minimalist design and the polished mahogany bar that gleamed under the soft lighting. The clientele, a mix of local elites and international dignitaries, quietly conversed over glasses of aged wine and artistically plated dishes. It was the perfect setting for a high-profile meeting. Just the kind of place Tony Stark would find annoying, hence why he''d bought it.


    For all the man''s enjoyment of finery, he wasn''t one for snobbery, growing tired quickly of the elite and their habits. Justin had always enjoyed it himself, although lately had found that it didn''t hold the same appeal, his disgust at the lazy uninspired elite of the world ruining the pleasure for him. It wasn''t that hard to make something of yourself with all the money available to them - yet they sat on their pile of money growing fat.


    It infuriated him now.


    How much further ahead would Earth be if the rich had invested the money on moving forward in an all in measure - instead of holding back.


    Soon after, just fashionably late, the man himself walked in, drawing eyes and hushed whispers. Tony Stark, dressed in an impeccably tailored suit that probably cost more than most people''s yearly salary, sauntered over to Justin''s table with that trademark cocky grin.


    Hah, let''s see if you''re grinning by the time my app hits the market, I''ll bet your stock price goes down by double digits¡­ He thought smugly.


    "Well, well, if it isn''t the man of the hour," Tony said, sliding into the seat across from Justin. "Been busy building your own little paradise out in the middle of nowhere and everything." He shrugged casually, "Well, New Mexico hardly qualifies as paradise, but you did a halfway decent job."


    Justin smirked, pouring himself a glass of the rich red wine that had been left to breathe at the table. "Ah, Hammerhaven. Just a little project to pass the time. You know how it is, Tony. Got to keep busy. Unlike you, I don''t fail at what I set my mind to." His smirk grew sharper as he referenced Tony''s failed attempt.


    Tony chuckled, raising his hand to catch the attention of a passing waiter. "Sure, sure. At least I''m not Alien bait, have you been probed yet, Hammer?" He leaned forward, eyeing him as lowered his sunglasses, "I can get a doll if you need help to show me where the bad touch happened."


    Justin scoffed, "Like you aren''t absolutely salivating at the prospect of trade with an advanced alien civilization." He''d learned to mostly ignore it when Stark got disgusting.


    Tony laughed, relaxing in his seat, "I''m a patient man." He lied unrepentantly, "I can wait until you''ve done all the boring diplomatic garbage, and swoop in when the interesting things happen." He wiggled his eyebrows, "Like alien sex. Orgy in space, tell me you haven''t thought about it!"


    Justin completely ignored that, knowing there was absolutely no win for him in engaging at all, "Your business hasn''t folded yet? Forced to engage with such a superior rival, it must be difficult¡­ I''d be willing to pick it up on the cheap, say, fifty cents a share." He sniped back casually instead.


    Tony leaned back, casually examining the menu the waiter handed him as he arrived. "Oh, we''re doing fine. Just fine. Stark Industries is booming, as usual. Though I have to say, I was surprised you weren''t tempted to set up your own little utopia somewhere more... Glamorous."


    Justin laughed easily, you have no idea Stark, he thought, shaking his head. "Glamour is overrated. Besides, Hammerhaven has its charm. A whole city designed with my own personal touch. And the security features? Let''s just say, if any more Asgardians decide to drop by uninvited, we''ll be ready."


    Tony raised an eyebrow, a hint of begrudging amusement in his tone. "Sounds like you''ve been preparing for the worst. Always thinking ahead, huh? How very¡­ You, of you." He played with his wine glass, "Were you a boy scout by any chance?" He quipped sarcastically.


    Justin took a sip of his wine, savoring the complex flavors. "Someone has to, with the world being what it is. Speaking of thinking ahead, how''s your side of the space program coming along? Still on schedule?"


    The whole reason they''d ended up coming together for regular status update meeting - was the forced cooperation they''d slipped into, starting with their shared mining rights for Wakanda, and continuing when both of them realized that continuing to rival each other in the space program was immensely wasteful of resources, when they could cooperate instead.


    To both their very grudging acceptance, after their subordinates beat it into their heads. Justin wouldn''t have accepted, except he had his own secret station being readied, so sharing with Stark on the ''public'' station was¡­ Acceptable.


    Even if he disliked how tied together the two of them were becoming in several matters. It wasn''t right to constantly meet your rival for dinner. It was unnatural. His eyes found a table in the back, where Domino and Pepper sat, their two ''escorts'' the women somehow making friends over the past year. Despite Peppers dislike of him personally. Domino of course found it amusing to fan the flames of that at times.


    He''d had more of these dinners with Stark, then he''d had with Hope over the last year! But soon the space station would be operational, and he could cut back on this, go back to normal, disliking the man from a distance.


    Tony leaned in, his expression shifting to a more serious one. "As much as it pains me to admit, we did good work together, we''re going to be launching on time. It''s been a hell of a ride, though. I mean, convincing the world that it''s time to go full in on space was one thing, but then actually doing it? Different ball game." He grinned sharply, "I can still hear the sweet screams from NASA, from when I dumped them for you, sweet cheeks¡­"


    Justin nodded, understanding the weight of Tony''s words. The two of them had reluctantly joined forces, pooling their resources to fund an ambitious space program. The initiative aimed to establish a permanent human presence beyond Earth, a plan driven partly by their egos and partly by genuine concern for humanity''s future. Also, Justin knew Tony had been beyond frustrated with the rules and bureaucracy of NASA constantly holding him back.


    It really hadn''t taken much convincing to get the man aboard. Even if they''d been doing it via the expedient way. Convincing Pepper first and then having her convince Tony it was in his best interest.


    "Stealing half their best minds, probably helped too, now that I think about it." Tony mused out loud, his smirk widening.


    "Yeah, well, when you dangle Vibranium in front of the world''s top scientists and engineers, it''s amazing how quickly they get on board," Justin quipped, recalling the hefty shipments of the precious metal that had been secured for the project. The material''s unique properties made it ideal for space travel, and acquiring it had been a key factor in the program''s progression in the first place.


    Even with the¡­ Difficulties they''d had over the last year with it. Justin''s shipments had been fine, he had Cairo as his main base, he just built a railway and transported it. China, America, or even the EU, they''d used ships to begin with.


    Until every ship carrying Vibranium kept disappearing, all aboard lost.


    Tony groaned at the mention of Vibranium. "That''s been a pain in my ass, stealing my Vibranium? I don''t care about Ross being all up my grill about it, but taking my share of the stuff? That''s crossing a line."


    It was no longer being transported by ship, but no one was happy about flying it either, the cost was much larger for one. But at least it now tended to actually arrive. Tended to, because two aircraft had disappeared too, although Justin suspected that was due to someone else.


    He was almost positive now that Atlantis must exist, and had been behind Wakanda''s destruction, and the continued attacks on Vibranium shipments. It was the only thing that made any sense.


    Justin leaned back, a frown on his face. "Weren''t you working on a Vibranium detector?" He asked Stark, his own people not nearly as affected by the issue, he hadn''t made it a priority. Atlantis was more a SHIELD issue after all, if it was them¡­


    Tony waved a hand airily, "Ah, it''s coming along, it''s just not very interesting, but I suppose I should prioritize it."


    Iron Man had been fairly active in the last year, Justin knew. And had a new nice Vibranium coated look. He also kept being ripped apart in the media thanks to Justin, due to consistently slipping past borders and engaging without any sanction - while HAMMER only worked within the nation''s remits.


    One of the reasons he was staying ahead of Tony was the fact the man focused too much of his attention on being Iron Man, and making new suits. Stane could only do so much to combat Justin without new inventions coming out rapidly.


    As the two men settled into their conversation, the waiter returned with their first course: a delicate amuse-bouche of seared scallops with a citrus foam, garnished with edible flowers. The presentation was impeccable, each dish a work of art - it was also to Justin, boring. All of this, just so boring, now.


    Tony took a bite, savoring the flavors. "Mmm, not bad. I guess this place does live up to the hype." But he too looked dissatisfied.


    Maybe the next meeting could be at a BBQ joint ala House of Cards, Justin thought with some amusement.


    They continued their banter, discussing everything from the latest in tech innovations to the finer points of their space program. It was a rare moment of camaraderie between two of the most competitive men in the industry.


    Tony eventually steered the conversation toward a more personal topic. "So, I hear the lovely miss Van Dyne has been spending a lot of time in Africa lately. Any reason for that? Or should I be congratulating you on your impending nuptials?"


    Justin nearly choked on his wine. "Oh, please. Hope''s just been helping out with some projects. We''re not¡­ you know." He shook his head, definitely not interested in discussing this with him, of all people.


    Even as he''d grown a tad frustrated over the last year or so with Hope''s flirtations while never seemingly moving forward. He still didn''t know if she wanted more, or was just enjoying teasing.


    Tony raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Sure, sure. And I suppose her spending all that time in your office is purely professional? Come on, Hammer, I''ve seen the way she looks at you." He smirked lavisciously, "I know women, I know what I''m talking about."


    Justin rolled his eyes, waving a hand dismissively, resigned to the fact the man wouldn''t drop it. "It''s not like that. Besides, I''ve got enough on my plate without adding a serious relationship to the mix." Maybe if he kept repeating it, it would come true?


    Tony smirked, taking another sip of his wine. "Right, because you''re just so busy building cities and all that. But seriously, she''s a good one. You could do worse." He said flippantly.


    Justin sighed, shaking his head. "Yeah, yeah. I''ll think about it. But enough about me. How''s Pepper? I hear congratulations are in order." He said, turning it around on him.


    Tony''s face lit up with a genuine smile. "Yeah, we finally did it. Popped the question, got a yes. She''s... She''s amazing. Honestly, I don''t know how she puts up with me."


    Justin wasn''t sure what had changed, but their relationship had sped through all the stages over the past year, to the point Stark had done an elaborate proposal in front of ten thousand people, daring Pepper to humiliate him by saying no. Justin suspected she''d been very tempted anyway.


    Justin nodded, not really that interested, but following the social conventions, it was still better than the man focusing on his love life. "When''s the big day?"


    Tony shrugged, looking a bit sheepish. "We''re still figuring that out. You know how it is - trying to find a date that works for everything, dealing with the press, and all that. But we''ll get there."


    Their conversation continued as the next course arrived - a beautifully plated dish of grilled lamb with a rich red wine reduction, accompanied by roasted vegetables and a side of creamy polenta. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the chef''s skill. Then again at a place like this, the chef had better be good.


    As they ate, Justin and Tony discussed the logistics of their space program, the technical challenges they faced, ironing out any links, making sure they were on the same page. With Nail now online, Justin knew he''d be able to safeguard his tech from Jarvis when they launched properly, so the small things that had held back his side of things to delay proceedings, could now move ahead.


    As the evening wore on, they continued their discussion, delving into the finer details of their partnership and the challenges they faced. Despite their often contentious relationship, both men recognized the potential of their collaboration and were willing to put aside their differences for the greater good. It probably wouldn''t last, Justin thought, but it was a necessary evil for now.


    The final course arrived - a decadent dessert of molten chocolate cake with a side of vanilla bean ice cream, drizzled with a rich caramel sauce. The two men savored the last bites of their meal, the rich flavors a fitting end to an evening of good food and stimulating conversation. As much as they disliked each other, they were also two of the few people on the planet that could actually keep up with each other.


    Justin might not be quite at Starks level, but he was close enough they could discuss things he couldn''t with people around him.


    As they finished their meal and prepared to leave, they both eyed each other, before Justin sighed, offering his hand.


    Tony scoffed lightly, but still shook it, making a whole production of it, "See you next time, Hammer. Try not to fall behind too badly."


    "Until next time, Tony, don''t cry too much when I leave you in the dust." Justin replied, a glint in his eyes, knowing what was coming to the market.


    They both left, going back to their separate endeavors, both intent on showing up the other.


    <hr>


    September 1st 2009, Cairo, Egypt.


    In the heart of Cairo, Justin Hammer stood with his core team inside a domed building within the compound. The building was far more than it seemed. Beneath its ordinary facade, a state-of-the-art command center buzzed with activity. Monitors displayed data feeds, telemetry, and live video feeds from various locations around the globe, as the countdown to a momentous event approached zero.


    Justin, clad in a tailored suit with an open collar, his demeanor a mix of excitement and tension, glanced around the room. Beside him stood Domino, her usual calm mask in place, her eyes scanning the screens for any signs of trouble. On his other side was Yelena, her expression focused as she coordinated with various team members through her comms device. Phantazia was cooly overseeing the rest of the personnel, while his scientists like Cho, and Hansen were special guests, the Hammer team and Kaecillius present as well. The rest of the crew buzzed with energy, a mix of engineers, scientists, and security personnel, all working in sync.


    Nail, his newly activated AI, was running the operation from behind the scenes, her warm synthetic voice occasionally interjecting over the intercom with updates and status reports. The AI had quickly become an indispensable asset, its capabilities far surpassing any other system Justin had encountered.


    "Launch window opens in T-minus ten minutes," Nail''s voice intoned, smooth and steady. "All systems are green."


    Justin nodded, his gaze shifting to the massive display showing the status of the rockets. These rockets, outwardly part of an international collaboration to build a new space station with Stark Industries, were a crucial part of his own plans. While they carried legitimate components for the space station, they also served as a smokescreen for the true payload - the refurbished Black Widow aerial base, repurposed as an invisible space station.


    The base, a relic from the Cold War era, had been extensively modified. It now featured arc powered cutting-edge cloaking technology, rendering it invisible to all known forms of detection. This was Justin''s secret ace, a strategic outpost in space that would give him a unique advantage in global surveillance and defense. They''d improved on its systems enough it would stay invisible through its movement into orbit, but there was no way to completely hide its passage on its own.


    Hence timing it with an actual space launch in near vicinity, muddling the readings of anyone watching. And everyone would be watching, he knew. He and Stark were publically working on a space station which was only a launching pad for creating a Moon base, that tended to draw notice.


    "Nail, confirm stealth systems are operational," Justin ordered, his voice crisp, a thrum of nervous energy throughout it.


    "Stealth systems are fully operational," Nail replied smartly. "All counter-detection measures are in place. The base is undetectable. Monitoring global communication, no sign of anything unusual."


    Yelena stepped forward, her voice cutting through the controlled chaos. "All teams are ready, Justin. We''re good to go." She was practically jumping up and down in excitement - knowing her Widows would be running the station, under the supervision of Nail.


    Justin took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment. This was it - the culmination of months of planning, secrecy, and cutting-edge technological innovation. "Alright, people, let''s make history. Launch in five."


    The room fell silent as the countdown commenced, the tension palpable. Everyone''s eyes were glued to the monitors, which now displayed the launch pads where the rockets stood poised to ascend. The rockets, painted with Starks and his own brand, gleamed under the desert sun, their purpose both a cover and a crucial part of the larger mission.


    "Four... three... two... one... ignition!" Nail''s voice echoed.


    The rockets roared to life, massive plumes of flame and smoke erupting from their bases. The ground shook with the force of their ascent, the sound a deep, resonant thunder that reverberated through the command center speakers. On the screens, the rockets shot skyward, leaving behind a trail of smoke as they pierced the clear blue sky.


    As the rockets ascended, the refurbished Black Widow base, disguised nearby, also ascended at full speed, remaining invisible to all monitoring systems. Its cloaking technology was practically flawless, masking not only its presence but also enough of any emissions that might betray its existence that it would escape detection with the rocket launch so close.


    Justin watched the telemetry closely, his heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and anxiety. This was uncharted territory, both in terms of technology and the stakes involved. The success of this launch would mark a new era for Hammer Industries - and for his own ambitions. With a secret orbital base, there were no limits to the kind of things he could do.


    "Payload separation confirmed," Nail reported. "The decoy is now in low Earth orbit." After a pause, she continued, "Hammer One successfully reached its orbit, undetected."


    A cheer went up around the room, the team celebrating their success. Justin allowed himself a moment of satisfaction, a rare smile crossing his face. But there was no time to rest on laurels. The next phase of the mission awaited.


    "Alright, everyone, good job," Justin said, clapping his hands to get everyone''s attention. "But we''re not done yet. Let''s move to phase two."


    The command center buzzed with renewed activity as the team prepared for the next step. Justin, Domino, and Yelena made their way to a secure area at the back of the building, where Kaecillius awaited them. The sorcerer, now a proper master of the mystic arts, was there to facilitate their transition to the new space station via a portal - a method that bypassed the usual complexities of space travel.


    Justin could probably do it, but he''d prefer a master due to the distances involved, there was not any reason to gamble on his own abilities when he had a proper sorcerer on staff after all. Phantazia nodded at him, as she stayed behind in the command center, monitoring everything while they would be gone.


    Kaecillius, garbed in his typical dark robes, nodded at Justin as they approached. "The portal will be ready at your word," He said, his voice calm and measured. "It will take you directly to the base, Master."


    "Thank you, Kaecillius," Justin replied, his tone appreciative. The man had been a valuable ally, helping Justin navigate the intricacies of the mystical realm, even if he showed less talent for it then he''d liked. Not having enough time to devote to truly becoming great. "Send us off." He ordered.


    Kaecillius gestured, and with a few precise movements, a shimmering orange portal opened before them. The base''s interior before them. In space. It couldn''t be reiterated enough. It was in space. Justin was going to be in space!


    Justin took a deep breath, feeling the anticipation mount. This was a significant leap, not just technologically but strategically. He glanced at Domino and Yelena, both of whom nodded, ready for the next step. Together, they stepped through the portal.


    Cho and Hansen quickly followed, together with those of his team that were interested.


    The transition was instantaneous, the cool air of the command center replaced by the sterile, climate-controlled environment of the space station. Justin blinked, adjusting to the change in surroundings. They stood in a spacious, high-tech control room, filled with consoles and displays. The room was dimly lit, with the soft glow of monitors casting an otherworldly light.


    As they took in their surroundings, Nail''s voice greeted them over the intercom. "Welcome aboard, sir. The base is fully operational. All systems are functioning within normal parameters."


    Justin walked to the central console, running his hands over the sleek controls. It was all perfectly engineered - every surface gleamed, every detail meticulously designed. He felt a surge of pride and excitement, knowing that they were standing on the cutting edge of human achievement. His achievement.


    He glanced at the large, panoramic window that dominated one wall of the control room. Beyond the thick glass, Earth hung in the blackness of space, a vibrant blue-and-green sphere. The view was breathtaking, a stark reminder of the vastness of the universe and the smallness of their world.


    The world he''d ensured wasn''t so small anymore, when galactic bullies came to throw their weight around.


    "It''s beautiful," Yelena murmured, stepping up beside him. Her usually stoic expression softened as she gazed at the planet below.


    "Yeah," Justin agreed, his voice filled with honest enjoyment. "It really is."


    Cho and Hansen both walked up to the window, entranced, Justin had invited them along to further ensure their everlasting loyalty, to show them that for all they''ve done - they still had further to go.


    Domino joined them, her eyes reflecting the blue glow of the Earth. "It''s ours to protect," she said, a hint of determination in her tone. Over the past year, she''d come to be more involved, seemingly more¡­ Attached, to both Justin and their goals. It was a nice change.


    Justin nodded, feeling the weight of her words. This space station, invisible and strategically positioned, was more than just a technological marvel. It was a symbol of their commitment to safeguarding the future - a future that, in Justin''s mind, would see Hammer Industries playing a crucial role in the defense and advancement of humanity. And eventually his ownership and stewardship of humanity itself.


    He turned back to the console, bringing up a series of holographic displays. Data streamed across the screens, detailing the station''s systems.


    "Nail, run a full systems check again. I want to make sure everything is working perfectly," Justin ordered. Not one to take chances any longer, he wanted to ensure everything was running smoothly.


    "Understood, sir," Nail responded, sounding slightly¡­ Pouty? Was she upset he was making her do it over again? "Initiating systems check." She confirmed a second later.


    As the AI ran through the diagnostics, Justin took a moment to appreciate the scale of what they had achieved. The space station was equipped with the latest in surveillance technology, capable of monitoring communications, tracking movements, and gathering intelligence on a global scale. It also housed defensive systems, including energy-based weapons and advanced shielding, making it not just a surveillance outpost but a potential deterrent against any extraterrestrial threats.


    This was the culmination of a full year of frantic work, countless resources, and a vision that many had doubted even amongst his subordinates. But Justin had never wavered. He knew that the future lay in space, in the stars, and he intended to be at the forefront of that future.


    "Nail, how''s the camouflage holding up?" Justin asked, his mind already racing with the possibilities that this new platform afforded them. It included the capability of firing down at Earth, although such an action would immediately reveal them. But it was a nice last resort available if he needed something gone beyond any doubt.


    A possibility for Hammerhaven if they couldn''t contain and stop the invasion if it came for them.


    "Camouflage systems are functioning at optimal levels," Nail reported, almost sassily, definitely annoyed he kept asking her to repeat work she''d already done. "The base remains undetectable to all known surveillance methods, including visual, radar, and thermal detection."


    "Good," Justin said, satisfaction in his voice. "That''s very good." He probably shouldn''t poke her anymore, everything was fine.


    Unlike fiction''s depiction of AI running loose, he''d ensured his AI could never attempt to harm him or betray him.


    Everything was going as planned.


    <hr>


    Asgard,


    Freyja put a hand to her cheek as she watched Thor leave the room, "Oh dear." She breathed out, a small smile on her lips, "A year''s worth of lessons and he still leads with his heart first."


    Odin grunted, not replying as he sat to the side, grouchily having watched through Freyja''s light chastisement of her son.


    Freyja''s lips twitched with mirth, "Husband, do you have anything to say on the matter?" She inquired sweetly.


    Their new situation was frankly one that had improved both their relationship and Asgard. Without the burden of the crown, Odin had slowly become healthier, the constant work to atone for his sins not enough to sap his strength, instead just enough to ensure some vitality restored.


    The Bifrost had been repaired far before scheduled, thanks to his efforts in its reconstruction, and Asgard itself was thriving now that Freyja had been able to institute some reforms Odin had always disdained.


    "The boy is still foolish, he should not trust this Justin Hammer, and he certainly should not be bringing even the appearance of an alliance to the table between Asgard and a lesser realm." Odin grouched.


    Freyja hummed thoughtfully, rearranging the large folds of her dress. "Perhaps it was not wise, but ignoring Midgard is also not a strategy that seems to have worked well, husband."


    Odin only grunted. As he did when he acknowledged she had a point, but was too proud to admit it out loud.


    She''d come to love him over the centuries. But she found that having the power in their new relationship, was¡­ Very pleasant.


    Odin could still crush anyone in Asgard, including her and Thor, there was no question about his strength. But he''d willingly abdicated, tied himself to Thor''s reign as an advisor. His pride would not allow him to do anything but his best.


    Freyja hummed again, a pleased smile playing on her lips, "I should quite like to meet this Justin Hammer, that so changed my son, that knew information even I did not know about you, husband." She said, smiling wider at his sudden scowl.


    "Now attend to me, husband." She declared, deciding that yes, she quite enjoyed being on top nowadays.


    <hr>

 Six Million Dollar Man

    <hr>


    Cairo, Egypt, September 7th, 2009


    Justin stood in the center of Cho''s state-of-the-art laboratory, his eyes scanning the array of advanced equipment and the sterile, metallic surfaces that reflected the cold, clinical environment, some signs of Cho''s personality existed here and there, a very expensive coffee machine, a few anatomical drawings of his body, pinned up, a small painting of a South Korean landscape barely visible behind a large machine.


    And the rumpled cot in the corner that showed that she''d slept over in the lab much too often.


    Helen Cho bounced on her feet in front of him. Her dark hair was pulled back into a tight bun, and her eyes shone with a mix of excitement and obsession. She moved with purpose, her white lab coat flowing behind her like a cape as she bounced from foot to foot. Today was a significant day; they were testing the latest iteration of the Extremis serum, which now included splices of Asgardian DNA.


    After all, they''d left a smorgasbord for them, it would have been foolish not to take advantage. Asgardians were some of the toughest bastards out there, although not everyone was capable of surviving in space, tanking the Hulk, and all other Thor related feats - they were still superior to humanity. For now.


    Without their Arc reactor weaponry and Extremis, they would have died against even the weakest of guards a year ago in New Mexico. Even Asgardians at the lower spectrum were not able to handle high end energy weapons blasted into their faces.


    Annoyingly enough, Thor probably would shake it off. It was hard to tell, he seemed to vary between getting his ass kicked and then not with no real rhyme or reason.


    They still hadn''t heard back from Asgard, which he was thankful for, because they were nowhere near ready for the meeting down here yet, politicians¡­


    "Justin, sir, are you ready?" Helen asked, her voice carrying an attempt at professionalism to mask her underlying fervor. She was flanked by three identical clones, silent and efficient, moving about the lab with an eerie synchronization. These clones were Helen''s creations, working as her lab assistants, devoid of independent thought, but capable of executing simple commands with precision.


    They were in a word¡­ Creepy.


    Justin now knew, thanks to Nail, that Helen had a clone of him living with her, a living sex toy. Something he had¡­ Accepted. She had stopped badgering him as much, now that he knew the reason, well¡­ He still preferred Justin two to be a mindless toy over Helen doing something crazy to him.


    If she was happy, he was happy. Especially when she was happy far away from him.


    Justin nodded, his eyes meeting Helen''s with a steely determination. "Can''t wait to try this," He replied, rolling his shoulders to loosen up. He could feel the serum coursing through his veins, a warm, almost fiery sensation that made him feel invincible. This was the Extremis serum, version 4.0, enhanced with Asgardian DNA. If all went well, this would be his ticket to unmatched power and durability against anyone on Earth.


    They''d already cracked the fiery part, without exploding, allowing him to imitate a dragon if he so wished, melting metal with his hands, or breathing fire - without that orange glow that would have marked him as too other, for his sensibilities - except a brief flash when he used it. With the Asgardian durability added onto that and the super soldier serum, there wouldn''t be anything on Earth that could touch him except the very few absolute monsters¡­


    God damn Magneto¡­.


    "Let''s begin with the strength test," Helen said, gesturing to a very thick metal slab positioned in the middle of the lab. It was anchored to the ground, meant to withstand tremendous force. "I want you to punch through this."


    Justin stepped forward, flexing his fingers. He focused on the metal slab, feeling the Extremis heat up inside him. The sensation intensified, and his skin briefly flashed with an orange-red hue around his fist. He clenched his fist, the heat concentrating in his hand until it felt like he was holding the sun itself in his hand, though not in a painful way.


    With a roar to psyche himself up that he immediately felt embarrassed about, Justin swung his fist forward. The impact was immediate and explosive. His fist met the metal with a searing heat, and the slab split apart as if it were made of paper. Molten metal dripped from the edges of the break, sizzling and hissing as it hit the ground. Justin stood back, smiling slightly at the effect. The power was incredible, and the realization of what he could do with it made his heart race.


    He''d already been capable of ripping through metal with the upgrade to Extremis, but it appeared, as they suspected, that Asgardian blood would further enhance what was already there. With this upgrade, he''d be able to just run through a tank, melting it on his way through and not even slow down.


    What it would do to an enemy combatant¡­ Justin was feeling very good right now. The past year and its discoveries were really setting him up for victory.


    Helen''s eyes sparkled with excitement as she observed the results. "Remarkable," She murmured with barely held back joy, jotting down notes on her tablet. "The Asgardian DNA seems to have integrated perfectly with the Extremis serum, enhancing both your strength and thermal output."


    Justin grinned, flexing a little, "Feels pretty damn good," He admitted. "What''s next?"


    Helen gestured to the clones, who quickly set to clearing the debris for her. "Kaecillius has the next test." She almost purrs out, as her hands track across his chest, attaching sensors with far more detail than was strictly necessary.


    Kaecillius, who had been standing back with Domino and Phantazia, walked forward, arms crossed, as he bowed his head slightly, to Helen of all people, before then doing the same to Justin. Helen blushed, looking away, and Justin raised an eyebrow, wondering what that was.


    "We''ll test your resistance to magic now," Kaecillius said, his voice raspy and deep. "Magic is an unpredictable force, especially when it interacts with enhanced physiology, the texts at Kamar-Taj allude to Asgardians having a natural resistance to magic to an extent."


    It probably explained why so many Asgardians had an aversion to magic as a threat, Justin thought. It also likely explained why Loki''s favored magic was illusionary, targeting senses, instead of direct magical attacks.


    Justin nodded at his magical minion, steeling himself, Helen watching her different machines, practically vibrating on the spot. He watched as Kaecillius began to weave intricate patterns in the air, golden sparks trailing from his fingers.


    Kaecillius muttered an incantation, and a bolt of sizzling energy shot from his hand, striking Justin square in the chest. For a moment, Justin felt a tingle, as if something was trying to get under his skin. But that was it, a somewhat annoying tingle. No damage, no marks, his skin blemish free, his regeneration not even needing to kick in.


    Helen watched with rapt attention, her eyes wide. "Fascinating," She whispered. "The Extremis has adapted perfectly, integrating the Asgardian resilience. It''s¡­ Incredible."


    Domino whistled, "Making my job kinda superfluous here, boss."


    Justin gave her a dry look, "Unless injecting your DNA gives me luck powers, I''ll always need you, don''t worry about your paycheck quite yet."


    Domino tittered behind a raised hand, eyes glinting, "Boss, so forward, and here I thought it was the man who was supposed to ''inject'' the woman¡­"


    Phantazia sighed, and Domino immediately gave her a sheepish look, miming zipping her lips.


    "One test isn''t enough for a baseline." Phantazia said sternly, crossing her arms, "Kaecillius, again, a different spell." She ordered.


    Kaecillius looked to Justin, who nodded, because she wasn''t wrong. There was nothing scientific about throwing one spell and calling it a success.


    For the next hour they tested many spells, finding that direct damage spells didn''t do much, to a point. Once Kaecillius went into a set of higher end spells, Justin did begin to take damage, although less than what the spell was supposed to do. And unfortunately, things like binding spells still worked just fine. It seemed anything that was poised to try and push past the body''s outer layer was what Asgardian resistance focused on, caring nothing for what went on above the skin.


    Kaecillius lowered his hands after throwing a final spell that managed to briefly pierce through Justin, a rare look of surprise crossing his face - the spell was supposed to be able to blow his torso to chunks. "Impressive, Master." He said. "Your resistance to magic is formidable. This will give you an edge against mystical threats."


    Justin let out a breath, always feeling somewhat off whenever he took damage to his internal organs, even if they immediately regenerated. It was a mental thing, he knew. So he shook it off, looking at Helen, "So?"


    Helen''s fingers flew over her tablet, recording the data. "Your physical enhancements are beyond our expectations. The combination of Extremis, the Super Soldier formula and Asgardian DNA, is giving you not only immense strength and thermal control but also a significant resistance to magical and likely physical attacks. We need to run more tests, of course, but¡­ This is revolutionary." She looked up, her face shining, "This will change humanity!"


    Maya would be upset to have missed this, but she was currently in space, working in the research lab there, he''d have to remember to congratulate her for her part in making this possible.


    Justin nodded at Helen, satisfaction swelling within him. He glanced around the lab, taking in the gleaming equipment, the silent clones, and the hovering screens displaying his vitals. This was the future he was building - one where he stood at the pinnacle of power, untouchable and unstoppable.


    At least¡­ Until he was the bright shining beacon leading humanity, and had ascended even further - then all humans could eventually begin to transform into this ideal. Asgardians were dangerous Warriors, but what if they''d had 7 billion of them? And the technological innovations of geniuses like Stark, Forge and Vanko?


    Earth was going to move into the do not fuck with category, he would ensure it.


    "Before we move on," Justin said, his voice taking on a more serious tone, "I need to ask you something, Helen." He''d been meaning to talk to her, but purposely didn''t spend a lot of time in her company, so now was as good as any time to ask her.


    Helen looked up from her tablet, curiosity piqued. "Yes, Justin?"


    Justin took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. "There''s been a rise in a... Let''s call it a Hammer cult. People who worship me, almost religiously, and they seem to know an awful lot about my personal habits and preferences. Do you know anything about that?"


    Nail was a godsend, Justin hadn''t paid any attention to the small smattering of nutjobs that called him a Messiah, even if he smugly enjoyed that people understood his rightful place. With Nail active, he''d found that the organization was real, global, and very organized.


    And Helen''s name popped up a lot.


    Including in a holy text that vividly described the time he took her virginity.


    Helen''s eyes widened, and for a moment, she looked almost childishly delighted. "Oh, you noticed!" She exclaimed, clapping her hands together. "I may have... Encouraged a few admirers. It started with just a small group, but it seems to have grown quite rapidly." She preened slightly, "They call me high priestess, you know!"


    Domino had to walk away, covering her mouth to cut off her laughter at Cho''s eager admittance, as Phantazia twitched in annoyance, her eyes zeroing in on Cho, reevaluating her threat profile. Kaecillius seemed wholly unsurprised.


    Justin gave him a flat look, before turning back to Helen, as he frowned, a mix of flattery and irritation bubbling up inside him. "Encouraged how, exactly?"


    Helen''s enthusiasm didn''t waver. "I might have shared some insights and personal details with them to foster a more... Intimate connection. It''s all for a good cause, sir. These people adore you. They see you as a savior, someone who is changing the world." She looked at him with wide adoring eyes, "They see you as you should be seen."


    Justin rubbed his temples, feeling a headache coming on. "Helen, you can''t just create a cult around me. That''s... Dangerous. People get crazy ideas, and it can spiral out of control."


    Already Nail had found dangerous amounts of chatter about possibly assassinating Tony Stark to pave the way for Hammer industries. And copious amounts of crappy gay fanfiction, because apparently even cultists couldn''t decide whether to kill Tony or ship him.


    Helen''s expression faltered slightly, a hint of disappointment creeping in. "I only wanted to show them how amazing you are. You''ve done so much for humanity, for science... For me. They should appreciate you."


    Justin sighed, trying to keep his frustration in check. "I appreciate the sentiment, but we need to be careful. The last thing we need is a bunch of zealots causing problems. You need to cut your involvement " He eyed Kaecillius, "You too if you''re involved." He added dryly.


    Helen nodded, her eyes sincere. "I promise, Justin. I''ll be more discreet." She wrung her hands together, looking upset that her actions had inconvenienced him.


    Justin nodded, satisfied for now. "Good. Now, what''s next on the testing agenda?"


    Helen brightened again, her excitement returning. "We have a series of durability tests lined up. Let''s see just how invulnerable you really are." She chirped.


    For someone that professed to love him, and saw him as a Messiah, she didn''t seem to have any issues with harming him, Justin thought, I''ll never be able to understand her.


    The clones moved swiftly, bringing out various implements designed to test his resilience. There were blades to test his skin''s toughness, heavyweights for impact resistance, and chemical agents for toxicity.


    First, Helen directed one of the clones to test the sharpness resistance. The clone approached with a surgical-grade scalpel, its edge glinting under the lab''s bright lights. Justin stood still, allowing the clone to press the blade against his forearm. To his astonishment, the scalpel didn''t leave a scratch, the blade''s edge dulling against his enhanced skin. They then tried several types of blades and received the same results.


    They next tried to burn him, to the same effect, no damage whatsoever.


    "Incredible," Helen muttered, jotting down notes again. "Your epidermis is not only heat-resistant but also impervious to human strength cutting instruments."


    Next, they moved on to impact testing. The clones set up a device resembling a battering ram. Justin braced himself as the heavy metal shot forward towards him, mechanically helped to reach a high speed. The impact was like a freight train, but Justin stood his ground. The force barely moved him, the kinetic energy dissipating across his body harmlessly.


    "Your skeletal structure has been significantly reinforced," Helen observed. "The Asgardian DNA is providing a level of durability that far surpasses our initial projections." She looked at her notes, pursing her lips, "Further than what we projected for an Asgardian too, it seems the enhancement effect to the Super Soldier serum and Extremis, has strengthened all your baselines by significant margins as well."


    "Only one test left for impact¡­" Helen said, eyes flicking to his bodyguards.


    Domino immediately skipped forward, "Oh, me, me! Pretty please can I shoot him!"


    "You don''t have to sound so excited." Justin pointed out.


    Domino just grinned impishly, "Getting a free shot at your boss? Shit, boss, I''m living the American dream here." She drew out one of her regular guns, "Don''t worry, as a favor, I won''t aim for your balls."


    "Don''t do him any favors." Phantazia muttered, drawing Justin''s and Domino''s attention, Justin gaping at her.


    "Eileen!?"


    She shrugged, "Anything to make you less of a horndog is the best option."


    Domino laughed, and before Justin could prepare himself, she shot him, once, not in the balls, thankfully.


    Helen hummed, racing forward to grab the bullet, which had flattened and fallen to the ground. "No damage. We''ll have to test with higher caliber, of course, but for now¡­ Sir, you''re bulletproof." She declared.


    "Ah, what a shame." Domino teased, holstering her gun, hip bumping Phantazia as she went back to her post. "Guess you''re gonna have to keep living with it, eh?"


    "You''re as bad as him." She scoffed, a hint of pink briefly on her cheeks, before she looked away.


    Finally, they tested chemical resistance. The clones carefully applied various acids and toxins to small patches of Justin''s skin. Each time, his skin didn''t even seem to notice.


    Helen''s excitement was palpable. "The integration is perfect," She said, her voice tinged with joyous awe. "Your body has adapted to a durability beyond what we saw in the Asgardians we experimented on!"


    "Nail, put everything about today, and this serum, under complete information lockdown." He ordered, pleased with the progress.


    "Yes, sir." The sweet Irish voice replied immediately, "Access level Omega implemented."


    Helen pouted, "Sir, but that means even I won''t be able to touch it without authorization."


    Justin gave her a look, yeah, that''s kind of the point¡­


    "Do you, or do you not currently have a clone of me at home?" He reminded her, voice growing sterner.


    Helen blushed, poking her fingers together, "Uh-hmm¡­ Y-yes?"


    Nail immediately interjected, "She has two, surveillance indicates that she enjoys both at the s-"


    "Shut it!" Helen shouted, cheeks flaring as she yelled loud enough to overpower what else Nail was saying.


    Justin rubbed his forehead wearily, "Nail, put the clone program under Omega level access as well." I do not need this to become an issue. Or for her little cult project to suddenly get one.


    "Affirmative, sir." Nail said smugly. He had a feeling if the AI had a tongue, she''d be happily sticking it out at Helen right now.


    "B-but sir! What if I need a third¡­ For, f-for research purposes!?" Helen wheedled.


    "Then use one of your own clones." He said dryly.


    He looked over, and saw that the others had already left the lab, removing themselves from Helens crazy, so he hurriedly made his excuses, idly wondering if he should do something about the fact Helen and Nail were loudly arguing with each other as he left.


    They were big girls, they could deal with it, surely.


    <hr>


    Same afternoon, Hammerhaven.


    Justin stood in the center of his high-tech office, a holographic display glowing before him. The hologram projected a circular table where the figures of the World Security Council members flickered into view, each seated in their respective locations around the globe.


    Gideon Malick''s sharp features were among the first to materialize, his face set in a stern expression. He was an older man, but his eyes held a cunning sharpness that hinted at his long career in the shadowy corners of global politics. To his left was the new Chinese representative, Minister Zhang Wei, a portly man with a calm demeanor, but eyes that betrayed his calculating nature. The other members soon followed, each bringing their unique aura of authority and influence to the meeting.


    The last year or two of events had taken a remarkable toll on the council, only Malick still there from before Justin''s appointment. The world had changed, and world leaders and governments had changed in their purpose and direction in that time, necessitating a change even at the World Security Council.


    "Mr. Hammer," Malick began, his tone dripping with barely concealed disdain. "We need to discuss the upcoming negotiations with Asgard. It''s imperative that the World Security Council has a proper seat at the table."


    Justin smirked, leaning back in his chair. "Good to see you too, Malick." He said coyly, "But I''m afraid that''s not going to happen."


    Minister Zhang spoke up next, his tone more diplomatic. "Mr. Hammer, surely you understand the importance of global cooperation. Asgard is not just another nation. Their technology and resources could benefit all of humanity. Allowing the Council to participate would ensure that these negotiations are conducted in the best interests of the entire world." Translation, their best interests, Justin thought.


    No one got onto the council without having significant pull in world politics. Except perhaps Zhang, who likely needed at least some sort of agreement with the Mandarin to ply this game.


    Justin''s eyes flicked to Zhang, then back to Malick. "The interests of the entire world, huh? Funny, I thought you all were already fighting tooth and nail to get your own governments a seat at the table. Why should I let you double-dip?" He taunted easily, fully comfortable with the situation.


    His seat was already assured, hence why they were all on their knees slobbering over his cock to get in. Well except Malick, who at least was delightfully consistent with his dislike for him.


    The French representative, Camille Rousseau, a beautiful olive skinned woman with silky raven hair down to her back - who he suspected was given the position because the French believed he''d allow her an advantage due to her looks, leaned forward, her hands clasped together. "Justin, this is bigger than any one company or country. We''re talking about an interstellar power. We need to approach this as a united front." She pleaded, using his first name.


    Ah, I was right. He thought, funny how the WSC who''d seemed so big before, was now¡­ Just a distraction, something he had no real reason to fear. With Nail online, he already knew them, down to what underwear they wore, to what porn they browsed, (Rousseau was heavily into subbing, Malick was surprisingly straight laced.) To what they''re planning to do tomorrow. He knows it all.


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head pityingly at the French woman. "A united front? Coming from the World Security Council? That''s rich. How about you all focus on your own internal negotiations? Because as far as I''m concerned, Hammer Industries is handling this just fine."


    Malick''s eyes narrowed, his voice taking on a more menacing edge. "Don''t be foolish, Hammer. You''re playing with forces beyond your understanding. If you think you can monopolize this relationship with Asgard, you''re gravely mistaken. There are consequences for overstepping your bounds."


    Justin''s smirk widened into a grin. "Consequences, Malick? Like what? Are you going to send a strongly worded letter? Maybe have your goons knock on my door? I have Captain America as my page boy now, he''ll throw them out with the trash." He gestured dismissively, a condescending look to his grin, "Face reality Malick, you can''t touch me, all you can do is beg for my consideration."


    Minister Zhang interjected smoothly, "There''s no need for threats, gentlemen. Mr. Hammer, perhaps we can come to a mutually beneficial arrangement. My government is prepared to offer certain... Incentives. Financial and business incentives."


    Justin''s eyes glinted with amusement. "Bribes now, Zhang? I''m flattered, really. But I don''t need your money." That''s not to say I''m not¡­ Open, if it''s Wenwu talking through your mouth.


    With a simple thought, he contacted Nail through his mental implant, asking her to dig deeper into the Chinese and what they were up to, even as the other inconsequential members of the WSC tried different avenues to change his mind.


    There would be limited seating for the Asgard conference, as decided by¡­ Him, because he was the one Asgard was asking for negotiations with. And he didn''t intend to waste a seat on these people. They''d have better luck trying to convince their governments to make them their representative.


    The British delegate''s frustration was palpable. "This isn''t about power plays, Hammer. This is about the future of our planet. The Asgardians have capabilities we can''t even dream of. Don''t let your ego jeopardize this opportunity for all of us."


    Funny thing to claim. Everything was about power plays in politics. That was the game.


    Justin''s demeanor shifted slightly however, his smile turning icy. "Ego? This coming from a group that''s scrambling to control every piece of the pie they can get their hands on? Let''s not kid ourselves. You all want a piece of the action because you know how valuable it is. But here''s the thing - I''ve already secured the trust and interest of Asgard. They know Hammer Industries, they know me. They don''t know the Council. You all are just names on a piece of paper to them."


    He put his hands down on his desk, leaning forward, a chilled smile on his face, "And gentle beings, I decide what''s on that piece of paper too, this is my game, you''re extras."


    Malick leaned back in his chair, a cold smile playing on his lips. "You''re making a dangerous gamble, Hammer. One misstep, and you''ll find yourself very alone. Powerful enemies can be made with a single decision, you''re taking it all on yourself, but that means your solely responsible when it goes wrong too."


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Justin''s gaze locked with Malick''s, unflinching. "I don''t make gambles, Malick. I make calculated moves towards victory. And right now, my calculation says that Hammer Industries has the upper hand. If you want in on this, you need to play by my rules."


    The tension in the holographic room was palpable. Zhang''s calm mask slipped for a moment, revealing his irritation. "This isn''t the end of the discussion, Mr. Hammer. The Council has considerable influence, and we intend to use it." He shared a look with the Russian delegate, both of them looking aggrieved at his cocky attitude.


    Justin nodded, his expression one of mock understanding. "Oh, I''m sure you will. But remember this, Influence only goes so far. Results are what matter. And right now, I''m the one delivering those results. The only one."


    Rousseau sighed, her frustration evident. "Justin, for the sake of all of us, think carefully about your next steps. The Asgardians are a potential ally that we can''t afford to mishandle." She tried to go for an earnest pouty look, but he thought she looked more like a duck.


    Justin''s smile widened slightly, though it never reached his eyes. "Don''t worry, Camille. I have no intention of mishandling anything. I know exactly what I''m doing. And as long as you all remember that, we''ll get along just fine." As in back off and let me do me, you''re useless now, a puppet council.


    Malick''s eyes bore into Justin''s, a silent promise of future conflict. "This isn''t over, Hammer. We''ll be watching." He growled out, seeing the writing on the wall, and having nothing to push against him with.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, his confidence unwavering. "You do that, Malick. Enjoy the show."


    With a flick of his wrist, Justin ended the holographic transmission, the images of the Council members fading away. He stood up, stretching his arms and looking out over the city. The meeting had gone exactly as he had anticipated. They were desperate to get in on the action, but he held all the cards. And as long as he stayed one step ahead, the power would remain firmly in his hands.


    Justin couldn''t help but chuckle to himself. The World Security Council thought they could intimidate him, bribe him, coerce him. They had no idea who they were dealing with. He was Justin Hammer, and he was playing a game they couldn''t even begin to understand. He was going galactic, and here they were, playing provincial with each other.


    Pierce would have a seat at the table to keep him appeased, but these jokers? They just didn''t understand how entirely useless they were now.


    Pierce paid lip service to them, and then did what he wanted, and Justin couldn''t be arsed to even do the lip service. He''d outgrown the council.


    It felt¡­ Good.


    He felt like he was reaching towards that zenith, where no one else could touch him.


    "Nail, Malick is not needed." He said softly, staring out over his city.


    "It will be done by morning, sir."


    <hr>


    September 8th, New York.


    Justin sat comfortably on the plush couch of "The Late Show" set, the vibrant lights reflecting off his sharp suit. The audience buzzed with excitement as the host, a charismatic comedian named Tom Hargrove, leaned forward, his grin as wide as ever.


    "Justin, always a pleasure to have you here. Now there''s been some controversy lately, and I''m not talking about the aliens, I understand you can''t really say much on that." Tom said, laughing as the crowd boos. "I know, I know, gotta love government NDA''s folks, but seriously, what''s up with Hammer Industries getting control over the corrections system? There''s been a lot of noise around that."


    Ah, it''s so nice being on a show where you own the person asking the questions. Justin thought, smiling pleasantly at Tom, and the camera, as he answered, "Well, Tom, there''s been some misconceptions that we''re brainwashing American citizens which couldn''t be further from the truth." Well¡­ Depending on one''s definition of brainwashing.


    He tapped his head, winking at the camera, "I myself have the same style mental implant as the prisoners under our care, it''s perfectly harmless."


    Tom laughed, "Hey, look at that, some big bruiser named Bubba in Folsom can now say they have something in common with Justin Hammer!" The crowd laughed and cheered as the applause sign lit up.


    Justin had created yet another company, with America as the testbed as he owned the government to such a degree he could get away with privatizing the entire correctional system. Hammer Corrections and Rehabilitation now runs every prison in America. And although they''ve only been at it for two months so far, the world was taking notice.


    He chuckled along at Tom''s joke, before explaining it further, "It''s really quite simple, instead of wasting taxpayers money on putting someone in a box for 20 years, we install this implant, and run them through their sentence in a virtual world, that will last month''s at the most in the outside world, but their entire sentence in their minds." He splayed his hands out, smiling genially, "Humanely giving people the consequence for their crime, while rehabilitating them through classes and behavior programs through their sentence - with no chance for them to get into drugs, make criminal connections with other inmates, or be victimized or further radicalized, as can happen in a normal prison system."


    There was a reason he tended to make these public announcements on talk shows and the like - no one ever asked the hard questions. Like what exactly are you teaching them.


    They did their job, and would do their job even more efficiently now that Nail was in charge, but Justin also wasn''t completely altruistic. A funny thing to think when he was eating up the entire correctional budget just for himself. Anyone going through the system would leave it with a positive view of him and his business. Full stop, everyone that goes through the prison system, even for a 2 week jail sentence.


    "I think it''s a marvelous thing, isn''t it folks?" Tom said, clapping his hands, applause reverberating across the set.


    "Now that we got my curiosity out of the way - and silenced all those negative nellies complaining about Hammer Corrections. You''ve got something big to share with us tonight, don''t you?" Tom''s tone was enthusiastic, perfectly setting the stage for Justin''s announcement.


    "Absolutely, Tom. Tonight, I''m unveiling something that''s going to revolutionize how we live our lives. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you HammerAll, the everything app." Justin paused, letting the anticipation build. The audience leaned in, their curiosity piqued. They were all conditioned by now to expect something amazing whenever Justin did this kind of announcement.


    "HammerAll," He continued, "Is not just another app. It''s the only app you''ll ever need. Entertainment? We''ve got Netflix, Spotify and YouTube integrated seamlessly, coupled with a few others you''ll come to enjoy, especially you gamers! Do you want social media? Instagram, Twitter, all at your fingertips. Shopping? Amazon and Uber are just a tap away, same for your Uber ride hail. Need to pay for it? We''ve got PayPal built-in. You can buy a pizza, order groceries, even have your pharmacy prescriptions delivered, all from one place. HammerAll is designed to simplify your life by bringing everything into one easy-to-use interface."


    The large screen behind them came to life, showcasing the sleek interface of HammerAll, showcasing how one press of the app would bring up the multitude. Justin stood, taking a few steps towards the screen, and with a flick of his wrist, the app''s various features lit up.


    "Look here," He said, pointing to the entertainment section, "You can stream your favorite shows and videos without ever needing to switch apps. Your playlists, your watchlists, everything is right here."


    He swiped to the social media section. "Keep up with your friends, your followers, your favorite influencers all in one feed. No more app hopping, everyone will be there, and so will you."


    Next, he showcased the shopping features. "Whether you''re buying clothes, ordering a ride, or even groceries, it''s all here. You can browse, select, and pay in a few simple steps."


    Justin tapped a button, and the payment interface appeared. "And paying? It''s as easy as pressing a button. With PayPal integration, your transactions are secure and instant."


    The crowd erupted into applause, impressed by the sleek design and the convenience it promised. Justin basked in their admiration, his smile confident and cocky. He knew this would be used everywhere. People would go to town for convenience, and there wasn''t much that could beat this app''s convenience.


    "Now, I know what you''re thinking," He said, pacing back to his seat, "This sounds too good to be true. But it''s real, and it''s here. HammerAll will be available on all HammerTech devices starting tomorrow." He winked, "Most of it is even free, with only a small subscription fee for the higher end apps."


    Money wasn''t the main reason behind this, influence was. With Nail running everyone''s twitter feed, their internet searches, their ads, their YouTube pop ups, their podcasts recommendations. The world would slowly become more Hammer by each day. But if he gave the app out completely for free, people wouldn''t fully trust it, so he added a small almost inconsequential fee for the Netflix and Spotify options as a bundle.


    Tom jumped in, his excitement mirroring the audience''s. "That sounds incredible, Justin. I mean, this could change everything!" He waved his arms wildly, "You''re talking about people being able to run their entire life from just one press of a button!"


    "That''s the plan, Tom," Justin replied, his eyes gleaming with barely hidden excitement. He turned to the camera, his gaze piercing through the lens, addressing millions of viewers directly. "HammerAll. Available tomorrow. Be ready to upgrade your life."


    The screen flashed behind him, Upgrade your life! Flashing by in large letters. Suck on that, Tony.


    The applause was thunderous, the audience on their feet. Justin gave a final wave before the show cut to commercial. The rest of the show was barely worth paying attention to, as he sat on the couch as some vapid celebrity gushed over him. As soon as the cameras were off, he made his way backstage, his expression shifting from charming to calculating.


    "Nail," he spoke softly, addressing his AI assistant embedded in his glasses, "How hard did Stark Industries'' stock drop in the last few minutes?"


    With Stark switching more and more of his military contracts to more defensive purposes, the electronics market was one of his major money getters. And he''d just dropped a bomb on him.


    A moment later, Nails'' calm, sexy voice replied, "Stark Industries'' stock has dropped by 9.2 percent, sir."


    Justin frowned, a flicker of disappointment crossing his face. "Only 9.2 percent? I was expecting a bigger hit. What do we have to do to make it 20?" He said, not really needing to go that hard, but it was all part of the rivalry.


    If he couldn''t completely crush Stark, he could at least make sure that the entire world knew he was inferior. In a friendly way...


    Nail responded, "Would you like me to analyze potential strategies to further impact Stark Industries'' market position?" She almost sounded gleeful.


    Domino, the only one of his retinue that had followed him to the show, muttered something about Terminator, as they kept walking.


    Justin ignored her, and nodded, a predatory gleam in his eyes. "Yes, do that. And get me a full report by morning."


    As he strode towards his car, Justin couldn''t help but reflect on the evening''s success. HammerAll was poised to dominate the market, integrating every aspect of modern life into a single, user-friendly platform. Entertainment, social media, shopping, payments - everything was consolidated into one powerful app.


    Justin wasn''t just thinking about convenience and the way he could twist people''s thinking his way. He was also thinking about control over the markets. By integrating these services, HammerAll would collect vast amounts of data, giving HammerTech unprecedented insight into consumer behavior. It was a goldmine of information that could be leveraged for future innovations and strategic moves.


    Back in his office, the lights dimmed to a comfortable glow as Justin sank into his chair. The room was quiet, the only sound being the hum of the city''s nightlife through the large windows. He tapped his desk, bringing up a holographic interface where Nail had already started compiling data on Stark Industries.


    "Show me the analysis you have so far," Justin commanded, watching as graphs and charts materialized in front of him. The drop in Stark''s stock was significant, but it wasn''t the punch he had hoped for. Yet, he knew that HammerAll was just the beginning. With its release, HammerTech was set to become an even more dominant player in the tech industry.


    Stark and him would be the only ones of note left now, no way the other companies don''t throw in the towel after this, he thought, smugly. Everyone would want HammerTech, no one with any kind of internet presence would settle for less.


    Justin leaned back, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. The World Security Council, Stark Industries, even the global markets - they were all pieces on his chessboard, and he was making his moves.


    Tomorrow, the world would wake up to HammerAll, and everything would change.


    <hr>


    The next day, hours after HammerAll is successfully launched, Hammerhaven.


    Justin sat in his office at HammerHaven, the skyscraper that served as the nerve center of his operations until New York finished his new headquarters.


    Seated across from him were Yelena and Domino. Yelena lounged in her chair, exuding an air of casual readiness, just waiting for a reason to go into motion. Domino, ever the wild card, leaned back with a cocky grin, just waiting for whatever came next, having become loyal enough that Justin thought he could probably stop paying her and nothing would change.


    Not that he would do that. But he could. And that comforted him, in a way. People weren''t just around him because he made them money.


    "Alright, let''s get down to business," Justin began, his tone brisk and authoritative. "Nail, give me a detailed report on Norman Osborn and his whereabouts."


    It was time to begin to really dig into his enemies, Nail had over a week to familiarize herself with the global internet and communication systems, if she couldn''t find it, it didn''t exist.


    A holographic display flickered to life on Justin''s desk, and Nail began to speak in her almost flirty, accented voice. "Norman Osborn has been tracked to China, although his signal is bounced around so expertly it''s impossible to locate an exact location. His recent activities however suggest he is currently operating under the aegis of Xu Wenwu, otherwise known as the Mandarin."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, a mixture of curiosity and annoyance crossing his face. "Wenwu, huh? That complicates things. Nail, how sure are we of this information?" Does that mean the Mandarin is now running Oscorp¡­? And the military is now buying their prized power armor from China? Oh, that''s going to mess with national security¡­


    Nail''s response was immediate. "The tracking is based on Osborn''s use of electronic devices as well as a few shots on social media where he appeared in the background of someone''s photo in Beijing. The signals were traced to many different locations in China, which correlates with Wenwu''s known areas of influence - the photos were all in Beijing."


    Yelena leaned forward, her interest piqued. "What is Osborn doing with The Mandarin? Are they working together, or is Osborn just hiding out?" She mused, cocking her head, thoughtfully, "We might need physical assets to investigate further¡­"


    Yelena, your answer is always to send a Black Widow. Justin''s thought, wryly. Ever since she became in charge of her fellow Widows, she''d been incredibly focused on their careers. Too bad they still hadn''t located her mother or Dreykov''s girl. I''ll put Nail on that in a bit, we got bigger fish to fry right now.


    Justin tapped the desk, having been thinking for a moment. "It''s hard to say without more intel." He said finally, "Although I''m not convinced yet that sending Widows into the Mandarin''s demesne is a good idea. Osborn''s also a slippery one, and Wenwu isn''t exactly known for transparency, we still know frustratingly little. But whatever they''re up to, it''s not good for us."


    The Mandarins organization did use cell phones and computers, so they knew much more than they had before, but it seemed nothing overly important to Wenwu himself was stored digitally. Like his location.


    Domino smirked. "You think? Osborn and the Mandarin together sounds like a recipe for disaster. We need to keep a closer eye on them." She drew a line over her throat with her thumb, "Or deal with it now, before it becomes an issue."


    Justin nodded, his mind already racing through potential strategies. "Nail, continue to monitor Osborn. I want updates on any significant movements or communications." He wasn''t ready to choose to move against Wenwu yet.


    They had some time to gather more information.


    "Understood," Nail replied immediately.


    Justin turned his attention back to the AI, moving to the next subject, and frankly, the more pressing one. "What about Magneto and Sinister? Any news on them?"


    Nail paused for a moment before responding, sounding grumpy in a cute way. "Tracking Magneto and Sinister has proven more challenging, sir. However, we have been able to track Mystique for brief periods through very limited electronic use and CCTV footage. She has been caught on camera a few times in identities I cracked through her messages." The AI sounded apologetic as she added, "There doesn''t seem to be any noticeable reason for her movements, although they seem limited to Northern Europe or Canada so far."


    Justin frowned, leaning back in his chair. "And what about direct contact between her and Magneto or Sinister?" He asked, annoyed, because at this point it was beginning to become a little ridiculous.


    "There has been absolutely no contact between Mystique and either Magneto or Sinister electronically," Nail reported. "Furthermore, there is no electronic communication from either Magneto or Sinister to any device I''ve had access to. However, there is a lot of chatter in the metahuman community about a paradise for all of mutant kind - specifically naming it as mutants, not metahumans. This propaganda is spreading through word of mouth, but I''ve intercepted a few text messages among friends who''ve shared the literature - which have allowed me to learn of this word of mouth rumor."


    Yelena sighed, crossing her arms. "A paradise for mutants? Sounds like Magneto''s dream come true." She grimaced, "And there''s no way that''s not going to be very dangerous for us."


    "Or it''s Sinister''s twisted idea of a utopia, as he''s in charge¡­" Domino added with a distasteful look. "Either way, it sounds like they are building up something, and that is likely going to be aimed at us."


    With metahumans being championed by Hammer industries, anyone trying the Homo Superior bullshit would be gunning for them first. Take away the metahumans defenders, and then profit as the whole mutant question explodes giving them their race war. It was already a hot topic across the globe, only the alien reveal really simmering down the hate from some groups.


    It was better than in any X-Men reality he''d ever heard of before he got reincarnated here, but there was still a Sentinel program running somewhere. Nail was already following that trail, having discovered a lot of the backers, but hadn''t quite found where it was located.


    Which again was a similar problem to Sinister and Magneto, which makes him wonder what kind of Marvel bullshit he''s missing. If they had a secret moon base before him, he was going to be pissed.


    Justin rubbed his temples, feeling the weight of the situation. "This ''paradise'' could be a front for something much more sinister. We need to find out where it is and what they''re planning."


    Yelena nodded. "Agreed. But with no electronic trail to follow, how do we find them?"


    Justin''s eyes narrowed in thought. "We need to lean on our contacts within the metahuman community. Someone has to know something. Nail, prioritize gathering intelligence on this so-called paradise. Use any means necessary."


    "Understood," Nail replied, "I am limited however in the lack of electronic use by those that spread it."


    Justin leaned back, considering his next moves. The pieces on the board were shifting, looking like they were soon coming to a head, and he needed to stay ahead of the curve. "Yelena, I suppose you get to send out your Widows after all, I need something for Nail to latch onto."


    Yelena''s expression was serious, even as her eyes sparkled. "We''ll get it done, Justin. Whatever it takes."


    The room was quiet for a moment as they all considered the challenges ahead. Justin knew they were facing powerful enemies, but he also knew they had the resources and the determination to come out on top. Only the fact his enemies seemed to realize his threat and were moving very cautiously - was saving them at the moment.


    He refused to be reactive.


    They''d track them down, and deal with them one by one. Sinister and Magneto first, the Sentinel program. Shaw and Selene, Wenwu and Osborn. One by one, the dominoes would fall.


    This is my Era, you losers are surplus to requirements now. He thought, eyes pouring over the information Nail laid out.


    My time, my planet, get off my lawn, you filthy malcontents.


    <hr>


    Later that night, Hammerhaven.


    Justin, Yelena, and Domino were sprawled across the large, plush couch in Justin''s opulent living room, surrounded by the best entertainment equipment money could buy. The soft glow from the giant flat-screen TV bathed them in a cozy light. Bowls of snacks, mostly popcorn and chips, were scattered around them, within easy reach for when the urge to munch struck.


    The trio had settled in for a night of relaxation, a rare respite from their usual high-stakes endeavors. On the screen, a classic action movie played, the sound of explosions and witty one-liners filling the room. Despite the high-octane scenes, the mood in the room was relaxed and comfortable. Justin rarely let his hair down, so to speak, so these few moments were precious to him when they happened.


    Yelena was nestled against Justin''s side, her head resting on his shoulder. Her blonde hair cascaded over his arm, and she absently twirled a strand around her finger. On the other side, Domino lounged with her feet propped up on the coffee table, a bowl of popcorn resting precariously on her lap. Then again, the lady of luck could probably rest the bowl on a finger while jumping out of an airplane and not lose a kernel.


    Justin reached for a handful of popcorn, only to have Yelena playfully bat his hand away. "Hey! Hands off my popcorn," She teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes.


    Justin chuckled, leaning in to steal a kiss on her forehead. "What''s yours is mine, quite literally, I pay for everything." He pointed out.


    "No such rule when it comes to snacks," Yelena retorted, but her smile softened the words, before she cheekily added, *Besides, everyone knows when it comes to snacks, it''s every woman for herself!"


    Domino rolled her eyes, though she couldn''t suppress her grin. "You two are disgustingly cute, you know that? Just smooch already."


    Yelena''s eyes sparkled with mischief. "You''re just jealous, Dom. Maybe you need to join us more often. Right, Justin?" Her grin turned coy, "Or are you just egging us on, cuz you like to ~watch?"


    Justin glanced over at Domino, his expression playful. "Well, there''s always room for one more."


    Domino raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Is that so? Maybe I will." Her smile turned positively sinful as she stretched out, displaying her body in the tight purple nightgown she was wearing. "I do owe you that one promise¡­"


    Yelena shifted, resting her head on Justin''s lap and reaching out to tickle Domino''s foot. "Oh? What''s this promise? Something fun?" Her eyes grew half lidded as Justin''s hand ran down her back, nails raking her skin, "Or something naughty?"


    Domino let out a surprised throaty laugh, jerking her foot away. "Hey, no tickle wars here, you cheating Widow!" She pouted, pulling her legs up under her, purely ''accidentally'' showcasing that she wasn''t wearing panties. "You''ll have to interrogate me to get any answers out of me, ''lena!"


    In retaliation for the tickles, she grabbed a handful of popcorn and flung it at Yelena. With her reflexes, Yelena easily dodged, the kernels scattering harmlessly across the couch. Not to be outdone, Yelena grabbed her own handful and threw it back, but Domino was equally quick, dodging with ease.


    "This is pointless," Domino said with a laugh, though she grabbed another handful, her eyes glinting with challenge.


    "Maybe," Yelena agreed, "But it''s fun."


    Justin watched them, a smile playing on his lips. He felt a warmth spread through him, not just from their playful antics, but from the sense of camaraderie and closeness they all shared. It was rare moments like these that reminded him of what really mattered amidst all the chaos.


    As the popcorn fight died down, Domino leaned back, her laughter echoing softly. "Alright, alright, truce."


    Yelena grinned, settling back down against Justin. "Truce."


    Yelena reached over and grabbed Domino''s hand, pulling her closer. "Come here, Dom. Let''s all cuddle. You know you want to."


    Domino hesitated for a moment, then relented, sliding closer and nestling against Justin''s other side. "Fine, but only because you''re so persuasive." She sniffed, but her smile was honest and warm.


    The three of them settled into a comfortable silence, the movie continuing to play in the background. Justin''s arms encircled both women, holding them close. Yelena''s fingers intertwined with his, while Domino rested her head on his shoulder.


    "This is nice," Domino murmured, her voice soft.


    "It is," Justin agreed, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "We should do this more often."


    Yelena smiled, her eyes closing as she relaxed into the warmth of their embrace. "Agreed. More movies, more cuddles, more us."


    Eventually Yelena''s hands began roving above and beyond what cuddling meant. Domino not seeming to mind, if her half lidded stare and the way she licked her lips were any tell.


    Justin looked down at Yelena, then over at Domino. "I think it''s only fair we move on to interrogation now, don''t you think?" He said mildly, a glint in his eyes. "Domino did offer to let you practice your skills, Yelena¡­"


    The look in Yelena''s eyes as she slid off his lap and zeroed in on Domino, could only be called predatory.


    Domino let out a breath, giving them both a warning glare, although with the amount of need in it, the glare didn''t really dissuade either of them. "Fine, but it''s just skin, you''re not allowed to catch feelings." She murmured, even as Yelena''s hands crept up her shapely thighs.


    It was a nice relaxing night.


    <hr>


    The next morning, Hammerhaven.


    Justin stood in the spacious underground gymnasium of his HammerHaven estate, his muscles tense and eyes locked on his opponent. The room, fitted with advanced training equipment and reinforced walls, echoed with the sound of their movements whenever they clashed. His opponent, Phantazia, was poised and ready, her eyes gleaming with determination. The air was thick with anticipation, a stark contrast to the calm voice of Sunil speaking through the connection in his glasses.


    "Military contracts are up across the board," Sunil reported, his voice crackling slightly through the speaker - Justin''s glasses weren''t as sturdy as him, and had taken a minor hit earlier, which seemed to have affected speaker quality. "Countries across the globe are scrambling to bolster their defenses after the latest global incidents. So far it seems major nations are rushing ahead in trying to reach a military budget of 3-4 percent GDP."


    Considering two years ago most NATO nations weren''t even meeting the targets of 2 percent of their GDP, it was an astonishing turn around. And vastly profitable. With Stark slowly butting out of the field - to the agonized screams of his shareholders, and Stane. Hammer Industries, Frost Industries, Oscorp, and some minor companies like Lockheed Martin - made bank.


    Justin nodded at Sunil''s report, pleased that even the most reticent countries when it came to military expenditure - weren''t slowing down spending. He barely managed to dodge a lightning-fast jab from Phantazia in his distraction. "Good, keep pushing our newest models. Highlight the tactical advantages of the Arc batteries over bullets." He grunted, blocking a powerful kick with his forearm, the impact reverberating through his bones. "And make sure the PR team emphasizes our reliability over Stark Industries flip flopping and Oscorp and their everything. We need to keep up the pressure."


    He was still allied with Emma Frost, so he wasn''t shooting as hard across the bow against her company, for now. She''d done well in weaseling out secrets about Selene and Shaw and sharing them with him, both who had magical defenses Nail couldn''t pierce, they''d unfortunately found out the hard way.


    Compared to Hammer Industries, she was a minnow. He was almost a Trillionaire now, and would probably hit that mark soon - only the fact he kept spending money like water was hindering him from reaching it already.


    Sunil''s voice was steady, unfazed by the sounds of the intense sparring match, Phantazia making sure Justin''s new upgrade was put through its paces until he was familiar with it. "Understood. Also, you have another meeting invite for Bern. They''re pushing for a face-to-face discussion about the changed world we face."


    The Mandarin wants to try and put leashes on us all again, huh? Funny thing to try when he''s already leashed Osborn, breaking our pact..


    Justin didn''t want to make the Mandarin an outright antagonist. Yet. But he was also far too strong now, to accept a subordinate position even for one meeting.


    Justin ducked under a sweeping kick, launching a counterattack that Phantazia deftly avoided, sliding under his kick that could have crushed a tank, sweeping for his legs, which he just managed to jump over. "Reject it," he said, breathing steadily. He could feel the heat of the Extremis burning through his veins, but Phantazia was relentless, her agility and precision pushing him to his limits, she didn''t have enhancements to his level, but she wasn''t far below him, and she had experience.


    Justin was fairly certain that with the last year of training and his enchantments, he could kill Captain America in a fight. But it would be a long drawn one where he kicked Justin''s ass until his regeneration and durability wore the man down to the point Justin could get a proper killing blow in. Not that he wanted to have to go that far¡­ He had people for that.


    Reminder to self, find out where the fuck Fury, Cap and Banner are!


    Sunil paused on the other end of the line, his hesitation evident. "Are you sure about that, sir? The Mandarin is a significant player. Rejecting him might cause some ripples."


    Justin practically owned the Kingpin anyway, and had a profitable relationship with Tiberius Stone, an ally in Emma Frost, and Sebastian Shaw might be convinced to let him know what was discussed. So there really was absolutely no reason for him to go.


    Although the Kingpin might not show¡­ He''d been having Spiderman problems. Something Justin stayed far away from.


    Justin deflected a rapid series of punches, his own movements becoming more fluid as he adapted to Phantazia''s rhythm. "Reject it," He repeated, his voice firm. "But tell Wenwu I''m willing to meet. One on one. Let''s hash things out once and for all." He added, willing to see just how strong the Mandarin thought he was.


    If he believed himself unassailable, he''d reject Justin''s offer outright, continue with the meeting in Bern, and likely attempt to go after him. If he believed they were closer to equals, or even found himself wary, then he had no choice but to accept a meeting to work things out - or risk engineering an antagonistic relationship with his stubbornness.


    Phantazia seized the moment of distraction, landing a solid kick to Justin''s midsection that sent him staggering back. He winced, doubling over briefly before straightening, his resolve hardening. Even with his new durability, a Super Soldier/Extremis enhanced kick tickled a bit. "As you say, sir." Sunil replied. "I''ll handle it."


    Justin grunted as he took a kick to his crossed arms, being pushed back, "How are our friendly Skrulls doing?" He asked Sunil.


    Fury really had a set of balls to send them in, when he knew the likes of Natasha and Mystique had failed. Justin had been using them for shit duty ever since. Seeing no real reason to kill them and harvest them for useful stuff. Yet.


    Sunil had a note of amusement in his voice as he answered, "Ah, they''re currently combing through the Sahara desert, the part we haven''t repurposed anyway, testing different sand particles for me."


    Justin laughed, almost taking a punch to the nose, before he retaliated, managing to just about clip her by the ear, "Keep me updated, maybe have the sand samples destroyed in an accident, have them redo the work after." He found great amusement in torturing the little Skrulls, who had not manage to hide who they were or why they were there - even before he had Nail.


    Justin ended the call, feeling he made the right decision. His new enhancements, the addition of Nail, he was in a better position to handle almost anything at this point. "Alright, Eileen, let''s see what you''ve got," He said, cracking his knuckles. The sparring match had taken on a new intensity, both fighters fully committing to their attacks now that Justin wasn''t distracted.


    Phantazia''s movements were a blur, her strikes precise and unrelenting. Justin fought back with equal ferocity, his Extremis-enhanced strength and speed pushing him to match her blow for blow - his extra strength and speed a decent match for her greater experience, at least for awhile. The clash of their bodies echoed through the gym, each hit resonating with the force of their superhuman abilities.


    Justin aimed a powerful punch at Phantazia''s head, but she ducked under it, delivering a swift uppercut to his jaw that rattled his teeth. He stumbled back, shaking his head to clear the stars from his vision. Phantazia pressed her advantage, launching a series of rapid kicks that forced Justin to retreat, his defenses faltering under the onslaught as he tried to counter, but only found her countering his counters.


    From the sidelines, Yelena''s voice rang out, a mix of amusement and disappointment. "Boo, Justin! You''re getting your ass kicked!" She leaned casually against the wall, a smirk playing on her lips.


    Domino, standing beside her, watched the match with keen interest. "Nice form, Phantazia," she called out, her eyes glinting with appreciation.


    Phantazia glanced briefly at Domino, a cool smile curving her lips. "Are you complimenting my skills or my ass?"


    Domino''s grin widened. "Yes," She replied, her tone playful.


    Phantazia laughed, the rare sound captivating, yet her focus never wavered from Justin, as she raised a hand, waving him to her mockingly.


    Justin growled, pushing himself off the wall and charged at Phantazia with renewed determination. He unleashed a flurry of punches and kicks, his movements a blur as he tried to regain the upper hand. Phantazia met him blow for blow, her agility and precision countering his raw power.


    Justin managed to land a solid hit to Phantazia''s shoulder, but she retaliated with a swift roundhouse kick that caught him in the side of the head, sending him crashing to the mat. He lay there for a moment, not really dazed, with his durability and regeneration, more like¡­ Annoyed that he still couldn''t take her down.


    Yelena let out a mock sigh. "Come on, Justin, I''ve seen you do better. Don''t let a girl beat you up that easily." I could do without the cheer squad and their comments, he thought, letting out a sigh.


    Justin groaned, deciding he''d had enough anyway, rolling onto his back and looking up at the ceiling. "You''re not helping, Yelena," he complained, pushing himself up to a sitting position.


    Domino sauntered over, offering him a hand. "You did alright, boss. But you''ve got to admit, Phantazia''s got some serious skills, it will take more than a year of sporadic sparring to match her."


    Justin accepted her hand, allowing her to pull him to his feet. He rubbed the back of his neck, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah, yeah. She kicked my ass fair and square."


    Phantazia walked over, her breathing steady despite the intense match. "You''ve got potential, in a drawn out match, you''d win." She admitted, brow furrowed, "You lack the skill a dedicated fighter would have, but you''re not too far off, close enough to go toe to toe at least, and then your natural edge will work in your favor."


    Justin nodded, acknowledging her words, it is what he believed as well. "I''ll hopefully never be in such a fight, but it''s good to know I can handle myself." He turned to look at Yelena and Domino, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Next time, though, I''m bringing backup. You two are joining me in the ring, saving me from getting my ass kicked."


    Phantazia raised an eyebrow, smirking, "Oh, I think we can do that, with one change, you really need to learn how to fight in a group setting¡­"


    Justin blanched. "Hey now¡­"


    Yelena chuckled, a challenging smile curving her lips. "Oh, you''re on, We''ll see who comes out on top, all of us against the boss, sounds like fun." She winked at him.


    Domino laughed as well, giving Justin a playful punch on the arm. "Bring it on, boss. I''m always up for a good fight, I''m curious to see how many seconds you survive."


    My people are bullying me¡­ Justin thought, but his lips twitched.


    I''ll allow it. This once.


    <hr>


    Triskelion, Washington D.C.


    Justin walked through the expansive halls of the Triskelion, flanked by SHIELD agents who led him to the top office. As he approached the office of Alexander Pierce, he mentally prepared for the high-stakes discussion ahead. He wasn''t quite ready to rip up HYDRA yet, they were useful for pushing the world in the direction he wanted. A new world order.


    They just had different ideas on who would be at the top in the end.


    Pierce''s office was an impressive space with floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a panoramic view of Washington D.C. He motioned for Justin to take a seat as the agents closed the door behind them, a genial smile on his face that was as fake as ever.


    "Justin," Pierce began, his voice smooth but with an undertone of urgency, "We need to talk about the upcoming diplomatic meeting with Asgard. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and we can''t afford to squander it, or let the fools that govern make decisions on what is best for us."


    They still hadn''t heard from Asgard, but knowing Thor, Justin felt there was a chance it had already been decided, and Thor would just let them know at the last moment, having no idea how these things worked. He was probably more used to planning keggers than high stakes political meetings.


    His mother, if he got the right read on Thor when he was here, would likely allow him to lead until she needed to step in. So he felt he had a good handle on the situation.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, his expression calm and confident. "I agree, Pierce, you know this. But we need to ensure that we handle this properly. The Asgardians aren''t just another country - they''re an interstellar power with capabilities far beyond ours¡­ For now. We need to be calm about this, confident, but not arrogant or greedy."


    Pierce nodded reluctantly, his gaze intense. "We can''t let civil servants negotiate this, Hammer. We need to extract as much as we can from these negotiations. Advanced technology, resources, knowledge - all of it. But we have to be strategic about this. We can''t let this slip through our fingers and fall into the hands of every world government." He had a look of distaste on his face, "This needs to be kept in house."


    Justin smirked slightly. "So, you want SHIELD to be the primary beneficiary of this deal? Keeping the spoils for the select few?" Good luck with that. Although with his reach, he might be able to pull it off¡­


    Pierce''s lips twitched in a half-smile. "Something like that. SHIELD can utilize these resources effectively, ensuring that they''re used for the greater good, without the interference of bureaucratic red tape and international politics." He said mildly, only hinting at what they both knew.


    Justin folded his arms, considering Pierce''s words. "I''m on board with that I suppose." He acknowledged, since it didn''t hurt him to agree to something that would likely happen anyway once Pierce got his hooks into whoever the world governments would send as representatives. And a stronger HYDRA was still not a major concern for him yet. Nail was already deep inside their systems.


    There was one thing however¡­"There''s one major sticking point as I see it. Hela. She cannot be included in any deal we make. She''s too dangerous." He said firmly.


    She is too much of a wildcard, even without being on Asgard and getting the power from that, she would likely be the strongest woman on Earth.


    Pierce raised an eyebrow, looking unimpressed, leaning forward slightly. "Hela is a powerful asset, Justin. She''s been discarded by her people, her family, If we could control her -"


    "You can''t control her," Justin interrupted, his tone firm. "Hela is a wildcard, a force of destruction. Bringing her into this equation would be a catastrophic mistake. She''s not just a threat to Earth but to the entire universe." He meet Pierce''s gaze firmly, "She conquered entire realms, and she''s had a thousand years to do nothing but hone her skills."


    Pierce sighed, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "You may be right. But what if your prison technology could work on her? Could we contain her using Hammer Corrections'' advanced systems?"


    Justin shook his head, but almost hesitated, because maybe¡­ No. "No. Our tech is impressive, but it''s not designed to handle a being of her caliber. Hela''s powers are beyond anything we can manage. Any attempt to contain her would be futile and reckless." He made a dismissive gesture, "A regular prisoner with twenty to life might spend a few months in the real world, experiencing all that time virtually, Hela has been alone for a Millenia, it would take a complete reworking of the tech to make anything that would work."


    Pierce leaned back, a contemplative look on his face. "Then we''ll need to ensure that the Asgardians understand our stance on Hela. Unless¡­ Can you rework the tech?"


    Justin grimaced, Forge probably could, but the risks¡­ "We''d need an Asgardian to test on." He said, too flexible to completely turn the chance down. For all he knew Thor would refuse to deal without Hela being involved in the deal.


    Which actually¡­ Sounded exactly like something he''d do.


    "If they desperately want this¡­ We can argue for a delay on her arrival, to let us test the technology on Asgardian psyches first." He said slowly, reluctantly allowing for the matter to be at least considered going forward.


    Pierce smiled, not even hiding the greed in his eyes, "They might even want the technology for their own prison, upping the trade value we have available."


    Justin snorted, thinking on Asgards definition of prison time. Solitary confinement, forever. "I don''t think they''re going to be interested in something that makes life easier for their prisoners."


    Although now that Odin wasn''t in charge. Maybe that would change.


    Justin sighed, settling in for some harsh negotiations with the HYDRA leader. If this Hela thing might end up happening, he needed to ensure he held the key.


    Doing a Winter Soldier redux, but with Hela this time - was not something he''d allow.


    <hr>

 Interlude: Change

    <hr>


    The courtroom buzzed with the low murmur of disinterested voices as the judge, a portly man with a stern face and a gravelly voice, read the verdict. The words echoed in the hardened criminal''s ears, but he wasn''t listening. The man in the orange jumpsuit - his name was Jeb ''J.D'' Dixon - leaned back in his chair, slouched like he didn''t have a care in the world. But the truth was, his blood boiled under his skin. He gritted his teeth, jaw twitching under the rough stubble, as he squinted up at the judge through narrowed eyes.


    "Aggravated assault," The judge droned on, voice as dry as the desert, "Armed robbery, possession of illegal firearms, resisting arrest... the list goes on, Mr. Dixon."


    J.D snorted, shifting in his seat. "Y''all ain''t got nothin'' on me," He muttered under his breath, loud enough for the bailiff standing nearby to shoot him a warning glance. But J.D didn''t care. He was used to looks like that. Been getting ''em all his life.


    The judge''s voice cut through the courtroom again, drawing out each word like it was a death sentence. "The court finds you guilty on all charges."


    J.D rolled his eyes. The judge kept talking, but it was all white noise to him now. He''d heard it all before - cops, judges, lawyers, they were all the same. Talkin'' big and tough, like they was any better than him. Hell, they probably was worse. At least he was honest about who he was. A cold-blooded crook, through and through.


    "...and I hereby sentence you to twenty years in a Hammer Corrections Facility, a life sentence not necessary at this juncture." The judge finished, slamming the gavel down.


    J.D.''s head snapped up at that. Hammer Corrections? Ain''t that the new joint they was talkin'' about, the one where all them suits with their big words and fancy degrees was sayin'' they had a new way to "fix" people like him? He didn''t like the sound of that. Not one bit.


    He was on his feet before he realized it, hands cuffed in front of him, and the guards were already moving in. "Hey, now, wait a goddamn minute!" J.D hollered, twisting in their grip. "What the hell is this Hammer place, huh? Y''all think you can just dunk me in some kinda fuckin'' reform school? I ain''t no lab rat!"


    The judge looked at him, expression unchanged, like he''d heard it all before. "Mr. Dixon," he said calmly, "Everything was explained to you at sentencing a few minutes ago."


    "That so?" J.D spat back, struggling against the guards as they dragged him toward the door. "Well, nobody listens to that shit! Ain''t my fault!"


    His voice bounced off the walls of the courtroom as the door slammed shut behind him, cutting off the echoes of his protests. The guards shoved him forward, into the cold, sterile hallway that led to the transport van waiting outside. J.D kept up his string of curses, every foul word he knew spilling out as they practically carried him out of the courthouse.


    "Goddamn cracker bullshit," He muttered, kicking his feet just to make it harder on the guards. "Y''all think this is gonna fix me? Sendin'' me to some kinda high-tech shithole with a fancy name?" Tch, his mamma beat him black and blue, ain''t fix anything, this ain''t gonna do it.


    The guards ignored him, like they always did. They were all business, dragging him down the steps and into the back of the armored van, throwing him in like a sack of potatoes. J.D landed hard on the metal bench, grunting as the cuffs bit into his wrists. The doors slammed shut behind him with a heavy clang.


    He glared at the Hammer logo on the vehicle, pig cars had a sponsor now?


    As the van rumbled to life, J.D finally let himself slump back against the wall, his breath coming in short, angry bursts. Hammer Corrections. Hell, he didn''t know much about the place, but he knew enough to be worried. He''d heard things - whispers from other cons, rumors on the street. They said it wasn''t like any other prison. They said it was... Different.


    He didn''t like different. Different meant unpredictable. Unpredictable meant dangerous. He knew what to expect from jail, it wasn''t even anything he worried about. But now¡­


    The van ride was long, giving J.D too much time to stew in his own thoughts. The road blurred beneath them, the world outside slipping away as they drove deeper into the middle of nowhere. Eventually, the van stopped with a jarring lurch, and the guards yanked him out, not even bothering to be gentle. J.D stumbled onto the gravel, blinking against the harsh sun.


    Ahead of him was a massive building, all cold steel and concrete, with a sign freshly installed above the gates. "Hammer Corrections Facility" it read in bold, black letters, towering over the entrance like a bad omen. Putting on fancy airs despite this being a regular slam just months ago.


    J.D squinted up at it, lips curling into a sneer. "Another fuckin'' cracker dunkin'' down on folks," He muttered, loud enough for the guards to hear. One of them, a big brute with a face like a bulldog, gave him a hard shove, almost knocking him off his feet.


    "Keep moving, Dixon," The guard growled, pushing him toward the gate. He was even more pissed to notice their bodyarmor and weapons had a Hammer logo too. This cracker fucker was behind every bad thing in his life!


    "Yeah, yeah," J.D grumbled, stumbling forward. "I''m movin''. Ain''t no need to be rough."


    The gates opened with a hiss of hydraulics, swallowing him up as they marched him inside. Hammer Corrections was as sterile on the inside as it was on the outside - white walls, harsh fluorescent lights, and the smell of antiseptic strong enough to burn your nose. It didn''t feel like a prison. Not the way J.D. knew ''em. No cells, no bars, no noise of cons yelling and guards barking orders. Just silence, heavy and oppressive, settling over him like a shroud.


    He didn''t like it one bit. It felt like a damn hospital, a bad one. The kind they do in horror flicks.


    The guards led him down a series of twisting corridors, each one looking just like the last, until they reached a heavy steel door with a keypad on the side. One of the guards punched in a code, and the door slid open with a soft whoosh. J.D craned his neck to see inside, and what he saw made his blood run cold.


    The room was dominated by a massive pod, sleek and futuristic, all gleaming metal and smooth lines. It looked like something out of one of them sci-fi movies - like a damn spaceship or somethin''. The pod''s lid was open, revealing a gel-like substance inside, a thick, transparent goo that shimmered under the harsh lights. Along the walls, machines hummed softly, their screens displaying streams of data that meant nothin'' to J.D. Wires and tubes snaked across the floor, leading into the pod, and nearby, a rack held a variety of instruments that looked more like torture devices than medical equipment.


    J.D stopped dead in his tracks, eyes wide as he took it all in. "What the fuck is this?" He blurted out, voice cracking with a mix of fear and anger. "This some alien shit, or what?"


    The guards exchanged a weary look, like they''d heard this all before. One of them, the bulldog-faced one, let out a long-suffering sigh. "It''s a virtual rehabilitation pod, Dixon," He said, his voice tinged with the boredom of a man who had explained this too many times. "The judge already told you about this during sentencing."


    "No, the judge told me nothin''!" J.D snapped back, eyes still locked on the pod. "I ain''t goin'' in that thing. No way in hell. Y''all ain''t stickin'' me in some goddamn test tube!"


    But the guards were done talking. They grabbed him by the arms and dragged him toward the pod, ignoring his struggles. J.D kicked and thrashed, but it was no use. They were too strong, and he was too outnumbered.


    "You sons of bitches!" J.D yelled, his voice echoing off the walls as they shoved him onto the platform in front of the pod. "You can''t do this! This ain''t right!"


    The guards held him down as one of them started strapping him in, thick leather cuffs around his wrists and ankles, pinning him in place. J.D felt his heart race, a cold sweat breaking out on his forehead. This was real. Too real. They were really gonna put him in that thing.


    "I ain''t some kinda guinea pig!" He shouted, voice hoarse with desperation. "Y''all can''t just -"


    His words were cut off as they shoved a gag with some sort of tube into his mouth, muffling his protests. He could still scream, but it was no use. No one here cared.


    They attached monitors to his chest, electrodes to his temples, all while he struggled futilely against the restraints. His eyes darted around the room, looking for any escape, but there was none. The pod loomed over him, the gel inside rippling like a living thing, waiting to swallow him whole.


    One of the guards leaned over him, speaking slowly, like he was talking to a child. "You''ll be fed by a nutrient paste. Hammer Industries developed it specifically for this purpose. Catheters will handle everything else. You won''t need to worry about a thing."


    "In fuckin'' what?" J.D tried to shout around the gag, his eyes wide with terror. But the words came out garbled, unintelligible.


    The guard didn''t bother to respond. He just nodded to his partner, who reached for a panel on the side of the pod, flipping a switch. The lid began to lower, sealing J.D. inside with a soft, pneumatic hiss. Panic surged through him like a bolt of lightning. His breath came in short, rapid gasps, his chest tightening as the walls of the pod closed in around him. He could feel the cold gel starting to rise up around his body, seeping through the thin fabric of his jumpsuit, clinging to his skin like it was trying to pull him under. He thrashed against the restraints, his muscles straining with every ounce of strength he had left, but it was no use. He was trapped.


    "Enjoy your twenty years," One of the guards said, his voice muffled through the thick glass of the pod. He didn''t even bother to look J.D in the eye, just hit the button and walked away, leaving J.D. alone in his nightmare.


    The gel was up to his chest now, cold and thick, making it harder to breathe. J.D. tried to scream, but the gag choked off the sound, turning it into a pitiful, strangled moan. His heart pounded in his ears, loud enough to drown out the hum of the machines around him. He could feel the gel creeping higher, rising up to his neck, and he squeezed his eyes shut, praying it would stop, that it was all some sick joke, that they''d let him out.


    But the gel didn''t stop. It kept rising, covering his mouth, his nose, his eyes, until he was completely submerged. His body jerked in one last, desperate attempt to break free, but all he managed was a pathetic twitch. He couldn''t move. Couldn''t breathe. Couldn''t scream. The world around him was dark and cold, the gel pressing in on him from all sides.


    And then, as the last bubbles of air slipped from his lungs, he felt something change. A warmth spread through his body, dulling the edges of his panic. The gel, once suffocating, now seemed to cradle him, holding him in a state of suspended animation. His thoughts grew hazy, like they were being pulled under along with his body, sinking deeper and deeper into the darkness.


    His last conscious thought was a promise - a vow burning in the back of his mind. When he got out of this, he was going to kill the guard who''d put him in here. He was going to gut the bastard, nice and slow, make him pay for this hell. The thought brought him a grim sense of satisfaction, a flicker of defiance in the face of the unknown.


    But then the darkness swallowed him whole, and J.D. Dixon was gone.


    ¡­


    In the control room adjacent to the pod chamber, a group of technicians monitored the process, their faces bathed in the soft glow of computer screens. Data streamed across the monitors, vital signs stabilizing as the gel did its work, lowering J.D.''s heart rate and inducing a state of deep unconsciousness. It was all part of the procedure, part of the "rehabilitation" they''d been trained to oversee.


    The lead technician, a woman with short, graying hair and sharp eyes, adjusted her glasses as she checked the readouts. Everything was going according to plan.


    "Vitals are steady," She said, her voice calm and professional. "Subject is entering REM sleep. Prepare for full immersion."


    One of the younger technicians, a nervous-looking man barely out of college, hesitated as he typed in the final commands. "Are we sure this is going to work?" He asked, glancing up at his superior. "I mean, he''s not the first one we''ve put through this, but... What if something goes wrong?"


    The lead technician gave him a flat look, unimpressed by his concerns. "The program is designed to teach them to be better, to temper their violent tendencies. The worst that will happen is that he''ll come out with a tradecraft under his belt."


    The young technician swallowed, nodding as he turned back to his screen. He didn''t like it, but he wasn''t in charge. He just did what he was told.


    "Initiating full immersion," the lead technician said, pressing a final sequence of buttons. The screens flickered, the data shifting as the program began to take hold.


    ¡­


    J.D floated in the darkness, unaware of the world around him, his mind slipping deeper into the induced state. Unknown to J.D, he''d already been implanted with the implant necessary to bridge the gap between him and the Pod during a routine medical check up in holding while he awaited the Judge''s decision, his guilt already decided. The sedation had given him short term memory loss to help prevent inmates from understanding exactly how things work - although usually performed at the facility itself.


    The machines hummed softly, adjusting the flow of chemicals that kept his body in stasis, while the virtual reality program - Hammer Industries'' most advanced psychological rehabilitation tool - began to build the world in which J.D would spend the next two decades.


    It started with a flicker of light, like the sun rising on the horizon of a new world. Shapes began to form, indistinct at first, then sharpening into focus. Trees, a dirt road, the distant outline of a town. It was a world that looked and felt real, every detail meticulously crafted to engage the senses, to trick the brain into believing it was all true.


    And in the middle of it all, J.D stood, whole and unharmed, dressed in the same clothes he''d worn the day he was arrested. He blinked, looking around in confusion, his last memories muddled and disjointed. The courtroom, the guards, the pod - none of it seemed real. Had it all been a dream? Some kind of bad trip?


    As he entered the town, a cute girl bounced up to him, curtsying before him, "Vaunted Hero, thank you for coming to our assistance!" She chirped.


    J.D blinked and rubbed his eyes, only managing a low, "Huh?"


    She rose up with fire in her eyes, her fist clenched, "The Demon King has long terrorized our homes, now we have a chance with you here to fight with us!"


    The only thing he really understood there was fight, "Where''s the fight?" He ground his fists together, he wasn''t sure what was going on, but he could do with some action.


    To his puzzlement he was lead to a field with a bunch of giant frogs.


    "What da fuq?"


    "Slay them Hero! And your harem will surely lavish you with their attention!" The cute girl shouted excitedly.


    J.D wasn''t really what one would call intelligent, but he knew the word harem, and he was all for that.


    Weirdly enough the giant frogs where not that much stronger then any bro he''d ever had beef with, weren''t monsters supposed to be badasses or sumthin''?


    At least meant he could do it with his own two fists no problem.


    Except it seemed the harder he worked, the more things kept happening to only give him a fuckin'' taste instead of the full thing.


    He fuckin'' finally killed the monsters around town, then it turned out that to have a harem - it could only legally be achieved if a brother had a fuckin'' education, so between monster killing, he begrudgingly sat for hours each day and after a few years finally got the stupid degree, all for that sweet harem.


    Going through high school again¡­ It was a worse punishment then fuckin'' jail anytime.


    Then the Demon King apparently refused to fight any hero who didn''t show they could master a craft, so J.D had to pick a stupid craft to do in between fighting and cuddling with cuties.


    To be fair, there were a lot of cuties, so he didn''t feel too hard done by.


    Years went by as he mastered carpentry, then decided to study to be an architect, girls coming in and out of his life, none staying long enough for him to develop anything more than a sexual relationship.


    He started craving that monogamous life, but none of the girls here seemed suitable for some reason.


    Eventually he finally met the Demon King, and instead of violence, negotiated a peace for all the realm, tired of slaying monsters and fighting all the time.


    J.D would wake up almost a year after going into the pod, a master carpenter, and with a degree in architecture - his rage tempered, his personality vividly different.


    Hammer industries was subtly weaved into every task and place inside the setting, his first thought as he''d exit would be on how Hammer industries would make for a great career.


    In that same facility, several hundreds of Pods were occupied with different scenarios going on based on the occupants psych profile - the results almost always successful.


    To the tune of 98% of those who were already incarcerated when the program started, had been released and not gone back to criminality, even if it was too early to tell the full effect.


    Every person got a tailored virtual world now instead of the one size fit all before the AI came along, Nail ensured it, able to know everything about a person before they entered. Not that anyone outside Hammer industries knew that part.


    It would create some controversy when people realized that most criminals aren''t necessarily punished, only rehabilitated.


    Those criminals that were truly monstrous had a somewhat darker world to work through, facing some punishment, but still there it was geared towards forcing them to become productive Hammer industries drones.


    Thanks to Nail, the small crime wave that would undoubtedly erupt when people realized they could get free college and a trade if they went to jail - would be short-lived as those people got nothing but a boring few months doing menial tasks.


    Nail knew when someone was trying to cheat the system, and ensured it didn''t happen again. Crime would always happen either way, so they might as well make them useful to society after.


    Stopping crime was not Hammer industries business.


    By chance, almost every criminal was leaving prison an avid gamer, just as Hammer industries started up an entertainment and gaming business¡­


    <hr>


    New York, September, 2009.


    The HammerTech store was a gleaming beacon of modernity, nestled in the heart of the sprawling city of New York. The walls were lined with sleek, polished surfaces, reflecting the vibrant glow of digital displays showcasing the latest in technological marvels.


    Customers moved through the store with a sense of awe, their eyes wide as they marveled at the gadgets that filled the shelves. The air was filled with the soft murmur of voices, punctuated by the occasional beep or chime of a device being tested or purchased. The store was a temple to technology, a place where the future wasn''t just imagined - it was sold.


    That slogan was plastered across the back walls, visible upon entering, customers marveled as a small robot cleaned the floor - and the walls, able to climb the surface, just one of the many innovations on display at all times.


    The man who stormed into the store wasn''t there to marvel or window shop. He had a purpose. He was tall, broad-shouldered, with the look of someone who wasn''t used to waiting around or taking no for an answer. His eyes were hard, his jaw set in a firm line as he made a beeline for the customer service counter, his pace quick and determined.


    In his hand, he gripped a sleek HammerTech phone, the latest model, gleaming black and still pristine despite the man''s tight, frustrated grip. He moved through the store with a single-minded focus, ignoring the polished displays and the rows of shiny new gadgets that drew the attention of most visitors. He had a problem, and he was here to get it fixed.


    The customer service counter was manned - or rather, womanned - by a young, attractive agent, her uniform a sharp, metallic silver that matched the store''s high-tech aesthetic. Her hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail, not a strand out of place, and her smile was warm, welcoming, with just the right touch of professional detachment. She was everything a HammerTech employee was supposed to be - polished, polite, and utterly efficient.


    She looked up as the man approached, her smile widening slightly in anticipation of another satisfied customer interaction. But before she could utter a word of greeting, the man slammed his phone down on the counter with a loud thunk, the force of it making her blink in surprise.


    "This damn thing," He growled, his voice low and angry, "Is running five percent slower than what your company promised."


    The agent''s smile didn''t waver, though there was a momentary flicker in her eyes, a flash of something sharp and calculating. She recovered quickly, tilting her head slightly in a gesture that was both sympathetic and attentive. "I''m so sorry to hear that, sir," She said, her voice smooth and corporate, the kind of tone that was meant to soothe ruffled feathers. "We strive to ensure all our products meet the highest standards. Let me assist you with that."


    As she spoke, she tilted her head ever so slightly to the side, her eyes pulsing momentarily with light. The tilt of her head revealed something just behind her ear. The man''s eyes caught the brief flash of metal - a small, disk-shaped implant nestled against her skin, its surface faintly pulsing with a soft blue light in time with her eyes. It was subtle, easily missed if one wasn''t paying attention, but once seen, it was impossible to ignore. "I''ve called a technician for you and they will be over momentarily."


    The man''s anger faltered for a moment, replaced by confusion and curiosity. He leaned in slightly, his brows knitting together as he pointed at the device behind her ear. "What the hell''s that?" He demanded, his previous issue with the phone momentarily forgotten.


    The agent straightened, her smile never faltering. "This?" She said, her fingers lightly brushing against the implant. "It''s a Hammer Industries neural interface. All of our employees have them. It allows us to place calls, send emails, and perform other tasks mentally, without the need for external devices."


    The man stared at her, his irritation evaporating as his mind raced to catch up with what she was saying. "You''re telling me you can make calls with your mind?" He asked, incredulity in his voice.


    The agent nodded, her smile softening to one of understanding. "That''s correct, sir. It''s part of our commitment to efficiency and innovation. The implant is directly connected to our internal systems, allowing us to perform our duties more effectively."


    "Screw the phone," The man said, his voice growing more insistent as he pointed at the implant again. "I want that."


    The agent''s smile didn''t falter, but there was a brief flicker of something in her eyes - regret, perhaps, or maybe just the hint of a practiced response. "I understand your interest, sir," She said, her tone still polite and professional. "However, the neural interface is not currently available to the general public. It''s a proprietary technology used exclusively by Hammer Industries employees."


    The man''s frustration returned, his hand clenching into a fist on the counter. "So you''re telling me I can''t get one? What kind of bullshit is that? You''re selling all this fancy tech, but the one thing that''s actually useful, you''re keeping for yourselves?"


    The agent remained unflappable, her expression still calm and composed. "I assure you, sir, we are working on making the technology more widely available in the future. If you''d like, I can add you to our waiting list. You''ll be one of the first to be notified when the neural interface becomes available for purchase."


    The man scowled, clearly not satisfied with this corporate answer. But before he could continue his rant, the agent quickly added, "While you''re waiting for the technician to assist with your phone, may I suggest adding HammerTech''s new Voice-to-Text program? It''s designed to save you the trouble of writing your reports manually. The program is intuitive enough to clean up and polish whatever you say into a professional looking report or essay."


    The man hesitated, his anger still simmering but now mixed with a hint of curiosity. "Voice-to-Text, huh?" He asked, his tone grudgingly intrigued. "What''s so special about it?"


    The agent leaned forward slightly, her eyes brightening with enthusiasm of a potential sale. "It''s one of our most advanced programs, sir. It''s not just about transcribing your words - it understands context, cleans up grammar and syntax, and can even restructure your speech to make it more persuasive or formal, depending on your needs. It''s like having a personal assistant who knows exactly how you want to be heard."


    Hammer industries wasn''t labeling it as AI. But their employees weren''t stupid. Yet the trust in Hammer industries was such that none of them ever questioned it.


    The man frowned, mulling it over. He wasn''t exactly thrilled with how things were going, but the idea of not having to waste time typing up reports was appealing. Especially if it meant he could focus more on his business and less on the mundane details.


    "How much does it cost?" He asked, his voice still gruff, but no longer as hostile.


    The agent smiled, sensing his interest. "It''s available for a very reasonable 9.99 monthly subscription, and it''s fully integrated with your existing HammerTech phone. We can have it up and running in minutes, so you''ll be able to start using it right away."


    The man sighed, running a hand through his hair. He glanced down at the phone on the counter, the source of all his frustration, and then back at the agent with her calm demeanor and that damn implant behind her ear. "Fine," he grumbled. "Sign me up. But you better get me on that list for the implant, too. I want in as soon as it''s available."


    "Of course, sir," The agent replied smoothly, her eyes glowing briefly as she added him to the list. "I''ll make sure you''re at the top of the list. And while we wait for the technician, I''ll get your new Voice-to-Text program set up. It won''t take long at all."


    The man watched her work, a part of him still bristling at the idea that he couldn''t have what he really wanted. But there was also a grudging respect for how she handled him - calm, professional, and with just the right amount of empathy to keep him from completely blowing his top. She was good at her job, he had to give her that.


    It was annoying in a way. He was a businessman, and none of his employees were at that level. Hammer Industries constantly hoovering up all the talent, not allowing him to compete at all.


    Minutes later his phone was set up, and the technician arrived, and quite embarrassingly told him that he''d downloaded a virus, and that was why the performance was slipping. Soon enough he walked out with a HammerTech anti virus software installed on his phone.


    He''d been unable to say no, not at the low cost of 4.99 - beating out all other competitors.


    Even as he bought the damn thing, he begrudgingly admired Hammer for managing to keep the fees low enough no one really paid attention to how much of their money went into his company each month.


    Maybe it was time to shutter the doors of his own small business and look for a job in Hammer industries before it was too late.


    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    <hr>


    Same time, New York.


    The Hammer Industries job fair sprawled across a full block in Queens, New York. A sea of people flooded the streets, buzzing with anticipation. Tents and pavilions, adorned with the sleek Hammer Industries logo, lined the sidewalks, each representing a different subsidiary of the industry giant.


    Towering screens displayed promotional videos, showcasing the future that Hammer promised - a future of innovation, prosperity, and dominance. From HammerTech to Hammer Construction, and even their recent foray into the food industry, the company seemed to have a hand in everything. The air was electric, crackling with hope, desperation, and fervent loyalty.


    In the midst of this teeming crowd was a man named Mike Dunn, a construction worker in his mid-thirties. Mike had the look of someone who''d seen his fair share of hard work - broad shoulders, calloused hands, and a face weathered by years of toiling under the sun. But today, those hands weren''t holding a shovel or a wrench. They were clutching a worn, but meticulously prepared, resume. To Mike, this job fair was more than just an opportunity - it was his golden ticket.


    He navigated the crowd with purpose, eyes scanning the signs overhead until he spotted the one he was looking for - Hammer Construction. The pavilion was large, prominently displayed and staffed by sharply dressed representatives of Hammer Construction. Their smiles were warm and welcoming, and the sight of them filled Mike with a sense of hope he hadn''t felt in years.


    "This is it," He muttered to himself, wiping the sweat from his brow as he joined the line. The wait didn''t bother him. Hell, he''d waited for less. What was a couple of hours when the payoff could be a secure job with healthcare, guaranteed pay, and a chance to see the world? He could already picture himself on one of those mega-projects Hammer was known for - maybe the next citywide smart grid, or even something overseas, like one of their rumored projects in Dubai. Long hours? Sure, but Mike was no stranger to hard work. He could handle it. And it would mean a better future for his wife and two kids.


    Not to mention he''d be part of literally building the future world, one nail at a time. A future he was determined to see through. There hadn''t been hope like this before. Not in his entire lifetime had he seen the amount of dreams and hopes for the future that swept through nations nowadays.


    In the last year, over a dozen dictatorships had ended across the world, Mike knew. The people finding hope in their hearts for the first time, and surging out onto the streets to take their countries back.


    As the line inched forward, Mike''s thoughts drifted to the stories he''d heard about Hammer Construction. They were at the forefront of the industry, using cutting-edge tech to reshape skylines, one building at a time. They weren''t just another construction company - they were revolutionizing the field, and Mike wanted in. He was already a loyal Hammer adherent, his home filled with Hammer products, his kids wearing Hammer-branded clothes. To him, Hammer Industries represented everything he believed in - innovation, progress, and a commitment to a better tomorrow.


    He shifted his weight from one foot to the other, watching as the people ahead of him handed over their resumes and spoke to the recruiters. Each one walked away with a sense of satisfaction, and Mike couldn''t wait for his turn. This was it. This was his chance to be part of something bigger than himself. The thought made his chest swell with pride, a grin spreading across his face. Hammer Industries was the future, and Mike Dunn was going to help build it!


    ¡­


    A few pavilions down, the line for HammerTech stretched on and on, winding through the street like a river of ambition. Thousands of people stood in line, the air thick with competition and barely suppressed desperation. In the midst of this crowd was Alex Stevens, a fresh-faced college graduate with a head full of dreams and a heart set on one thing - getting into HammerTech.


    It was the holy grail of tech companies. People at MIT who''d had an in to the company already were practically kings and queens, able to ask for anything. The students had all been willing to go to any length for an introduction.


    MIT had become almost as depraved as any regular college, the biggest nerds suddenly drowning in sex, students desperately working to not miss the big wave of the future. No one wanted to be the one left behind.


    Alex hadn''t been quite that desperate. Although if he failed here¡­ Well, needs must in desperate times.


    Alex had always been a tech geek, the kind of kid who built his first computer at age ten and spent his teenage years coding apps for fun. Now, with a degree in computer engineering, he was ready to take on the world, and to him, there was only one place to do that - Hammer Industries. Sure, Stark Industries was still around, but they were old news. Hammer was where the action was. They were pushing boundaries, integrating tech into every aspect of life, from the implants Alex had heard about to the entertainment tech that was supposedly light years ahead of anything else on the market. Hammer was the future, and Alex wanted in on the ground floor.


    The line was moving painfully slow, each step forward feeling like a small victory, but the end of the line still seemed impossibly far away. Alex wiped his palms on his jeans, trying to ignore the gnawing anxiety in his gut. He could see people around him exchanging nervous glances, some muttering under their breath about the wait. Bribes were happening, too - he''d seen more than one person slip a couple of bills to someone further up in line, only to be quietly let ahead. Alex cursed under his breath. He couldn''t afford that. Hell, he was still paying off student loans. But missing out on this opportunity? That wasn''t an option.


    He clenched his fists, trying to steady himself. This is it, he thought, repeating the mantra in his head. This is the chance of a lifetime. If he could just get through this line, if he could just get in front of those recruiters, he knew he could impress them. His resume was solid, his skills top-notch. All he needed was a foot in the door, and he''d show them what he was made of. But as the minutes ticked by and the line barely budged, his anxiety began to morph into frustration.


    Just then, he felt a tug on his sleeve. Alex turned to see a woman standing behind him, dressed in business casual - a crisp blouse and slacks, her dark hair pulled back into a tight bun. She looked around nervously before leaning in close, her voice barely above a whisper.


    "Listen," She said, her eyes darting to the front of the line, "I''ll give you a handy if you let me get ahead of you."


    Alex recoiled, his eyes widening in shock. "What?" He blurted out, his voice louder than he intended. How would that even work? We''re in public!?


    The woman glanced around, her face flushing with embarrassment, but she didn''t back down. "I''m serious," She hissed. "This is my shot, okay? I can''t miss it, and I can''t afford a bribe."


    For a moment, Alex just stared at her, his mind struggling to process what she''d just offered. Part of him was horrified, the other part deeply saddened by the desperation that seemed to hang around her like a shroud. But more than anything, he felt a surge of resolve. He wasn''t going to miss his shot, either. He''d worked too hard, come too far, to let anything get in his way now.


    "No," He said firmly, shaking his head. "I''m not moving."


    The woman''s expression hardened, her eyes narrowing as she straightened up. "Suit yourself," She muttered, turning away from him with a scowl. Alex could feel the tension between them, but he didn''t care. He wasn''t going to let anyone or anything distract him from his goal. Hammer Industries was the future, and he was going to be a part of it, no matter what.


    Without whoring himself.


    As the line inched forward, he kept his focus on the end goal. He could see the recruiters now, see the way they sifted through resumes, occasionally pointing someone toward a secondary tent where further interviews were taking place. The thought of being one of those chosen few sent a thrill through Alex''s veins. He could already picture himself working on the next big thing, maybe even getting one of those implants he''d heard so much about. It was all within reach, and nothing was going to stop him.


    ¡­


    At the back of another line, away from the tech geeks and construction workers, stood Marie Johnson. She was a mother of three, her figure slightly hunched from the years of hard work and the stress of caring for sick children. But today, there was a light in her eyes, a quiet reverence in her posture as she clutched the small amulet hanging around her neck. The amulet was a stylized version of the Hammer Industries logo, crafted into the shape of a cross - an emblem of the cult of Hammer. To Marie, it was a symbol of salvation.


    She stood in line for Hammer Industries'' newest venture - Hammer Foods, a subsidiary that had recently swallowed up several major companies responsible for basic commodities across the Western world. For Marie, this wasn''t just about getting a job. It was about serving the man who had saved her life, the man she now considered her Messiah.


    The person the whole world should acknowledge as the savior, letting go of their petty nations and borders, and just admitting the world would thrive under the Messiah.


    Marie''s thoughts drifted as she fingered the amulet, her lips moving silently in prayer. Not long ago, she had been lost, struggling to provide for her children as they battled one illness after another. Doctors couldn''t help. Medicine failed. But then Hammer Industries had released Panacea, their revolutionary healthcare solution, and everything changed. The sickness that had plagued her family vanished, their health restored as if by a miracle. Marie had never believed in miracles before, but now she was a true believer. Justin Hammer was her savior, and she would do anything to serve him.


    Anything.


    She glanced at the people around her, some of them chatting nervously, others scrolling through their phones to pass the time. But Marie was focused inward, her mind on the prayers she''d been reciting since she joined the line. She prayed for strength, for the opportunity to serve Hammer in any way she could. She knew the world was being saved, and she wanted to be a part of it, even if her role was small. To her, there was no greater honor.


    As the line moved forward, Marie''s grip on her amulet tightened. Her thoughts drifted to her neighbor, the one who had dared to speak ill of Justin Hammer. It had taken some planning, but she''d arranged an ''accident'' for him, something that would silence his blasphemous mouth once and for all. She hadn''t felt an ounce of guilt when the police found him with enough drugs in his car to lock him up for years. He''d been a thorn in her side, always sneering at Hammer Industries, questioning their motives, spreading lies about their Messiah. But now he was gone, and with any luck, Hammer Corrections would rehabilitate him, show him the error of his ways.


    She might even have her neighbor returned, now properly adhering to the way.


    Marie smiled to herself, the corners of her mouth curling upward in a way that would have unnerved anyone who might have noticed. But no one did. They were all too focused on their own futures, their own aspirations, to see the quiet woman in the line with the strange amulet, praying fervently under her breath.


    Ahead of her, the line for Hammer Foods moved steadily, and Marie felt a sense of peace wash over her. She was exactly where she needed to be, doing exactly what she needed to do. Hammer Foods was a new frontier, one that would feed the world, and she was determined to be part of it. Whether it meant packaging products, managing logistics, or even working in one of their new processing plants, she didn''t care. All that mattered was that she served Hammer Industries, that she did her part to spread their influence and secure the future for her children.


    Her thoughts returned to her neighbor, now sitting in a cell somewhere, and she allowed herself a moment of satisfaction. The police would deal with him, sure, but it was Hammer Industries who would truly set him straight. They''d put him through their programs, make him see the light, just as they had for so many others. When he came out of Hammer Corrections, he''d be a different man surely - a man who knew his place, who understood the power and wisdom of Justin Hammer.


    The line continued to move, and soon Marie found herself near the front, just a few people away from the recruiters. She could see them now, dressed in crisp uniforms, their faces friendly but focused. They were interviewing each candidate briefly, assessing their suitability, and then directing them to different areas for further evaluation. Some were sent to fill out paperwork, others were ushered into tents for more in-depth interviews.


    She felt a sense of pride in her Messiah when she realized none had so far been told to leave. Justin Hammer provided for all.


    As she approached, Marie felt a swell of emotion rise in her chest. She was ready - ready to offer her skills, her devotion, her life to Hammer Industries. She knew they would see the fervor in her eyes, the unshakeable faith she held in their mission. They would recognize a true believer, someone willing to go to any lengths to support the cause.


    Finally, it was her turn. She stepped forward, her amulet still clutched tightly in her hand, and looked up at the recruiter with a calm, serene expression. The woman behind the desk greeted her with a smile, but Marie barely noticed. Her mind was elsewhere, lost in her thoughts of devotion and duty.


    "Name?" The recruiter asked, hands folded in front of her, a shine to her eyes that she imagined must be from the new implants she''d heard about, allowing the recruiter to skip manually taking down information.


    "Marie Johnson," She replied, her voice soft but steady.


    The recruiter nodded, glancing down at her resume before looking back up. "You''re here for Hammer Foods, any particular reason you chose us above the other options?"


    "Yes," Marie said, her grip tightening on the amulet. "I want to help. I want to serve."


    The recruiter''s smile didn''t falter, but there was a hint of something in her eyes - perhaps she''d seen others like Marie before, those who had crossed from loyalty into something deeper, more consuming. But she said nothing.


    "What kind of work are you interested in?" She asked. "We have positions in production, logistics, quality control -"


    "Anything," Marie interrupted, her eyes shining with fervor. "I''ll do anything you need. I just want to help."


    The recruiter paused for a moment, studying Marie with a thoughtful expression. Then she nodded slowly. "We can always use dedicated people like you," She said. "If you''re willing to start in production, we can place you there immediately. There''s room for growth, of course, and plenty of opportunities to advance if you''re committed."


    Marie nodded eagerly, her heart swelling with pride. "Thank you," She whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "Thank you so much."


    The recruiter gave her a final, approving nod and handed her a small slip of paper. "Take this to the next tent, and they''ll get you set up with everything you need," She said. "Welcome to Hammer Industries, Marie."


    Marie took the paper with shaking hands, her eyes filling with tears of gratitude. "Thank you," She said again, clutching the slip of paper to her chest. "I won''t let you down."


    As she walked away, heading toward the tent where her new life would begin, Marie felt a sense of fulfillment that she hadn''t known in years. She was part of something bigger now, something divine. She was doing the work of Justin Hammer, the man who had saved her and her family. And she would do whatever it took to prove herself worthy of his salvation.


    The job fair continued around her, the sounds of thousands of people clamoring for a chance to join the ranks of Hammer Industries filling the air. But Marie didn''t hear any of it. Her mind was focused on one thing, serving Hammer, in whatever way she could. And as she walked through the crowd, her hand still gripping the amulet around her neck, she knew deep in her heart that she was exactly where she was meant to be.


    <hr>


    Malibu, September 2009, only days after the launch of HammerAll.


    Chelsea Cartwright was the epitome of a valley girl, the kind who moved through the world with a constant air of self-importance, her every step deliberate and calculated. With her long, platinum-blonde hair perfectly styled in beachy waves and her pink mini-dress clinging to her slim frame, she strutted down the boardwalk in Malibu like she owned the place. Her high-heeled sandals clicked against the pavement as she talked animatedly into her HammerPhone, her voice tinged with the exaggerated tones of someone who knew exactly how to draw attention.


    "Oh my God, Amber, you have to try the new Hammer Shake!" Chelsea squealed into the phone, holding up her half-empty cup as if her friend could see it through the screen. "It''s like, literally the best thing ever. I mean, it''s got all the protein and nutrients and stuff, but it tastes like sooooo good. Like, better than a milkshake but, you know, healthy."


    Starbucks finally realized what everyone else had for like a billion years already, do it the Hammer way, she''d be tots better at their jobs then them if it took them this long, really.


    She took a long sip through the straw, making sure to drag it out for effect. Amber, on the other end, probably wasn''t even listening - Chelsea didn''t care. She was too busy eyeing the other people on the boardwalk, making sure everyone noticed her.


    "But, like, can you believe Britney still has a Stark phone?" Chelsea continued, her voice dropping to a snide whisper. "I mean, it''s like, so embarrassing. She probably can''t even afford to go out for Hammer Shakes with us. Like, seriously, if you don''t have a H-Phone by now, what are you even doing with your life?"


    She tossed her hair over her shoulder, a self-satisfied smirk tugging at the corners of her glossed lips. Britney had been on the outs for a while now, but this was the final nail in the coffin. No way was Chelsea hanging out with someone who couldn''t keep up with the latest trends. Especially not when those trends came from Justin Hammer, the man who, in her opinion, was single-handedly making life worth living.


    Her homework was literally being done by her phone nowadays, she didn''t even have to flutter her eyelashes at some stinky nerd or anything.


    Amber''s response was cut short by a beep in Chelsea''s ear, signaling an incoming text. She rolled her eyes and pulled the phone away from her ear, glancing at the screen. The message was from her mom - Pick up some milk on your way home, sweetie. Love you!


    "Ugh, Mom, seriously?" Chelsea groaned, still holding the phone away from her ear. She couldn''t believe she was being interrupted for something so lame. Milk? What did she look like, a grocery clerk? She was Chelsea Cartwright, not some basic errand girl.


    With a dramatic sigh, she ended the call with Amber and immediately started recording a video, holding the phone at arm''s length and making sure her face was perfectly framed. "Okay, so, like, my mom is soooo lame," She began, rolling her eyes for the camera. "Like, she can order groceries on Uber with the HammerAll app, but she''s texting me to pick up milk? Like I''m a caveman or something? Seriously."


    She made sure to capture the full range of her exasperation, letting out a long, exaggerated sigh before stopping the recording. This would be perfect for her socials later. Her followers would totally get how annoying it was to have to do chores when you were busy living your best life.


    Chelsea slipped her phone back into her designer handbag, the shake still in her other hand, and continued down the boardwalk. She was heading for one of her favorite boutiques, a trendy little shop that sold the cutest clothes. It was *so* Malibu - expensive, exclusive, and always on the cutting edge of fashion. Just like her.


    As she walked, took her phone out again, flabbergasted at why she''d ever put it away, tweeting about the shake. "Hammer Shake is life." She typed with one hand, adding a series of heart and fire emojis for emphasis. She paused to take a selfie, holding the half-finished shake in one hand and flashing her best pout at the camera. She made sure to get the ocean in the background, because, like, aesthetics mattered. A lot.


    The camera clicked, capturing her flawless image, but just as she was about to post, another text buzzed in. This time, it was a notification that her Uber had been scheduled, like she''d ordered that for after her shopping, fifteen minutes ago, god people were slow. She pursed her lips, annoyed that her timeline update was being delayed, but whatever. At least she didn''t have to walk all the way home like some kind of peasant.


    As she approached the boutique, she pushed the door open and was immediately greeted by the cool, air-conditioned air and the smell of designer perfume. The shop was laid out like a high-end Instagram feed, all bedazzled walls, designer racks, and neon signs with cutesy sayings. It was totally Chelsea''s vibe. She spent the next hour combing through the racks, carefully examining each blouse, each skirt, each pair of jeans, making sure they fit her style. Nothing was chosen by accident. Chelsea prided herself on her fashion sense, always knowing exactly what was in and what was out.


    Eventually, she settled on a cute, pale pink blouse with delicate lace detailing - perfect for the next brunch with the girls. Satisfied, she made her way to the checkout, tapping her phone to pay through the HammerAll app without a second thought. The cashier handed her a sleek black shopping bag with the store''s logo on it, and Chelsea beamed, flipping her hair over her shoulder as she walked out.


    Once outside, Chelsea swiped open her phone again, checking that the Uber was almost there. It was so convenient, she could hardly imagine life without it. Waiting on the curb for her ride, she fired off another text to Amber, her impatience seeping into her words.


    "Ugh, like, could you imagine if we didn''t have Justin Hammer?" She typed quickly, her thumbs flying over the screen. "Like, I''d have to bus home or something, and pay with, like, cash. That''s sooooo lame."


    She sent the text with a satisfied tap, then rolled her eyes as she waited for Amber to reply. Honestly, what would people even do without Hammer? Stark Industries was practically a joke at this point, stuck in the past with their dumb gadgets that no one even used anymore. Hammer was the future, and Chelsea was all about being on the cutting edge. She didn''t just follow trends - she made them.


    A few moments later, Amber''s reply came in, buzzing in Chelsea''s hand. "You think we''ll get, like, a virtual world soon? All the geeks were talking about it, would be cool, although maybe harder to be on top."


    Chelsea snorted at the thought, flipping her hair back as she quickly typed a reply. "Of course we''ll still be on top," She sent, rolling her eyes even as she typed. "They''re still just geeks. Poor Britney probably wouldn''t even get in even. Pretty sure Stark losers wouldn''t make the cut."


    She hit send, satisfied with her little dig at Britney''s expense, and glanced up just as her Uber pulled up to the curb. It was a sleek, black Porsche - nothing but the best when you were using HammerAll+ the more expensive and therefore better version. She slid into the backseat, barely acknowledging the driver as she continued her conversation with Amber, her eyes glued to the phone screen.


    But as the car pulled away from the curb, something caught her eye through the window - a massive construction site, towering steel beams rising against the skyline, the future of Malibu taking shape before her eyes. A new Hammer Industries building, still in the process of being built.


    Chelsea leaned forward, her eyes lighting up with excitement. She could hardly wait. "I can''t believe Hammer is moving in on the entertainment industry!" she practically shouted into the phone, seeing the billboard, her voice breathless with excitement. "It''s going to be so cool! I wonder how he''ll make it better!"


    The Uber driver glanced at her in the rearview mirror, but Chelsea didn''t notice. She was too wrapped up in her own world, in her dreams of a future where Hammer Industries dominated every aspect of life. Where she, Chelsea Cartwright, would be at the center of it all, living the dream in a world shaped by the genius of Justin Hammer.


    As the Uber carried her home, she felt a sense of satisfaction wash over her, knowing she was part of something bigger - something cooler. Hammer wasn''t just a brand. It was a lifestyle. And Chelsea was all in.


    <hr>


    Africa, September, 2009.


    The sun was setting over the horizon, casting long, golden rays across the small town that had once been a humble village near the African coast. The transformation over the past year and a half had been nothing short of miraculous. The dusty paths that had once crisscrossed the village were now paved streets, wide enough for cars and lined with street lights that would flicker on as night fell.


    Buildings, new and sturdy, rose up where once there had been only thatched huts and simple, mud-brick homes. The new cement of Hammer Industries worked remarkably well and quickly to build homes with.


    Kelechi stood on the balcony of his modest office, overlooking the town that had somehow become his responsibility. He was a tall, lean man with deep-set eyes and skin dark as ebony, weathered by years spent under the unrelenting sun. His hands, calloused from a lifetime of labor, now rested on the cool metal railing as he surveyed the scene before him.


    It was still strange to think of himself as Mayor, a title he hadn''t sought but had somehow fallen into. When the representatives from Hammer Industries had first arrived, with their promises of transformation, he had been skeptical, as had everyone else in the village. But skepticism had turned to curiosity, and curiosity to hope, as the changes began to take shape.


    Water, the most precious resource in their arid region, had become abundant. The new water plant built at the coast just a few kilometers away had transformed their lives. No longer did women and children have to walk miles to fetch water from distant, often unreliable sources. Clean, drinkable water flowed freely through newly laid pipes, accessible to every home. The once-sickly children now ran through the streets, their laughter a testament to the town''s newfound health.


    Kelechi watched as the last of the day''s workers filed out of the cement plant on the outskirts of town, their faces lit by the orange glow of the setting sun. The plant had been the cornerstone of the town''s development, providing not only the materials needed to build their new homes and businesses but also steady employment. The textile factory, a recent addition, was already a hub of activity, employing hundreds of men and women. It had brought new colors and fabrics into life that would be filling the market stalls across the region and abroad, with colors and culturally important patterns.


    He hadn''t realized at the time, but when the people of the town had chosen him to represent them, they had been choosing stability, continuity - someone who could navigate the new relationship with Hammer Industries while still understanding the needs of the people. Kelechi had accepted the role reluctantly, aware that he was no politician, but seeing no other choice. The town had grown too fast for the old ways to keep up, and they needed someone who could bridge the gap between the past and the future.


    So, he had set up his administration - if it could be called that - in the new town hall, a building that Hammer Industries had helped design and fund. It was a clean, efficient structure, with all the modern conveniences one would expect in a city, let alone a town that had been a village not so long ago. Inside, the offices were run not by bureaucrats but by men and women trained by Hammer''s people, all of them working in tandem with the company''s directives. It was as if the town itself had become an offshoot of Hammer Industries, with Kelechi at the helm, more a manager than a Mayor.


    He had made peace with that. After all, everyone in town was better off now. There was no more sickness, no more hunger. Every able-bodied person had a job, and the few who couldn''t work due to advanced age were still cared for. There were new schools, new clinics, even a small hospital being built on the edge of town. The future looked brighter than he had ever imagined it could.


    They all worked in businesses owned by Hammer, bought food grown by Hammer, drank water owned by Hammer, medicine, security, education, it was all Hammer. And such was spreading across minor communities across Africa he knew. In a few years time, African governments might only be able to project power in their capitals.


    But there was one issue that weighed heavily on his mind with all of this, one that Hammer Industries had not foreseen - or perhaps they had, and simply didn''t care about. Religion.


    Kelechi was a devout Muslim, as were most of the people in his town. Islam had been the bedrock of their community for as long as anyone could remember, guiding their daily lives, their morals, their sense of right and wrong. But now, there was something new, something unsettling, creeping into their town. It had started with a few whispers, then grew into open conversation, and now, it was impossible to ignore.


    The cult of Hammer, they called it. People - good, hard working people - were beginning to worship Justin Hammer, the man behind the company that had brought so much change to their lives. They spoke of him not as a businessman, but as a savior, a Messiah sent to deliver them from poverty and hardship. They gathered in small groups to pray, not to Allah, but to Hammer, thanking him for the water, the jobs, the prosperity.


    Kelechi didn''t understand it, not fully. He could see why they were drawn to Hammer''s promises, why they saw him as something more than just a man. After all, the changes in their lives were so profound, so swift, that it was easy to see them as miraculous. And yet, Kelechi couldn''t bring himself to abandon his faith, to replace Allah with this foreign god of industry and commerce.


    But what troubled him most was the division it was creating in the town. There had always been other religions present, mostly a few Christians - but they had lived together peacefully, respecting each other''s beliefs.


    Now, the rise of this new Hammer worship was causing friction, even violence. Just last week, a fight had broken out in the market between two men, one who had torn down a poster of Hammer and another who had defended it. The incident had escalated, with more people joining in, until Kelechi had been forced to call in Hammer Security to restore order.


    Hammer Security. They were everywhere now, patrolling the streets, keeping an eye on the factories, making sure everything ran smoothly. They were efficient, professional, and utterly loyal to the company. But their presence made Kelechi uneasy. They were outsiders, brought in from other countries, and they answered not to him, but to Hammer Industries. They maintained order, yes, but at what cost?


    Kelechi sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. He knew he would have to address the issue sooner or later. The town was growing rapidly, and tensions were bound to rise if he didn''t do something to manage them. He had thought about cracking down on the Hammer worshipers, enforcing a stricter separation of religion and business, but he couldn''t bring himself to do it. These were his people, after all, and he understood why they felt the way they did. Who was he to tell them they were wrong?


    Instead, he had made a decision that was both practical and, he hoped, wise. He would call in more Hammer Security, assign them to keep the peace between the different religious groups. Perhaps, with a little time, the fervor would die down, and people would return to their old ways, remembering that Justin Hammer was just a man, not a god.


    And yet, deep down, Kelechi wasn''t sure that would happen. He had seen the power of Hammer Industries firsthand. He had watched as they turned his village into a thriving town, as they brought water to the desert, as they began to push back the Sahara itself, reclaiming land for farming, planting trees where there had been only sand. It was hard to argue with results like that. It was hard not to see the hand of something greater at work.


    He didn''t know what to believe anymore. Part of him still clung to his faith, to the teachings of the Quran, to the prayers he had recited since childhood. But another part, the part that saw the new school where his children would learn to read and write, the part that watched the crops grow tall and green where there had been only dust, couldn''t help but wonder if perhaps Hammer was something more than just a man. Perhaps he was a force of nature, a tool of the divine, sent to bring prosperity to the world.


    Kelechi shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. It was no use getting lost in such ideas. He had a town to run, people who depended on him, and he needed to stay focused. Tomorrow, he would call in Hammer Security, set up a meeting with the religious leaders, try to find a way to keep the peace. It was his responsibility now, one he couldn''t shirk.


    As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the town in a warm, dusky glow, Kelechi turned and walked back into his office. The streets below were quieting, the day''s work done, and soon the town would settle into the peaceful rhythm of night. He paused at his desk, glancing at the portrait of his family - a simple photo of his wife and children, taken before the changes began. They looked tired, hungry, drawn.


    He kept the photo to remind himself. This was life not so long ago. They could never allow it to return, no matter if they needed to be subservient to Hammer industries, they could never go back to the old life. He would not allow it.


    He knew he was doing the right thing for his family, for his town. Hammer Industries had given them a better life, and for that, he was grateful, despite the minor issues, he would never feel anything but gratitude for their lot in life.


    The rhythmic ticking of the wall clock drew his attention. It was getting late, but the thought of leaving his office and going home seemed almost daunting. The house would be quiet - his wife and children would already be asleep, their days filled with Hammer''s school and their chores, their nights undisturbed by the worries that now occupied Kelechi''s mind. The peace they had found was precious, but it came with an unspoken cost - one that Kelechi was only now beginning to understand.


    His thoughts drifted to the town''s transformation, the unprecedented speed with which everything had changed. A year ago, he would have been sitting in a small, dimly lit hut, eating a simple meal with his family, listening to the wind sweep across the barren landscape. Back then, the future had been uncertain, but it had been familiar. He had known his place, his role within the community. But now, everything was different. The new world they were building was filled with opportunities, yes, but also with questions - questions that Kelechi wasn''t sure he could answer.


    He stood up, pushing his chair back, and walked over to the window. The town was still, the only movement coming from the occasional flicker of headlights as a car made its way down the main road. The new water plant was visible in the distance, its lights shining like a beacon in the night. It was a marvel of modern engineering, a symbol of the progress Hammer Industries had brought to their once-forgotten village. But as Kelechi looked out at it, he couldn''t shake the feeling that they were moving too fast, that the foundations of their new world were being laid on shifting sands.


    His thoughts turned back to the religious tensions that had been simmering beneath the surface. The people of his town had always been devout, their faith a source of strength in times of hardship. But now, that faith was being tested, not by drought or disease, but by prosperity. The cult of Hammer was growing, fueled by the tangible benefits that the company had brought to their lives. It was easy to see why some had begun to view Justin Hammer as a savior, a man who had delivered them from poverty and despair. But where did that leave the old ways, the beliefs that had sustained them for generations?


    Kelechi sighed, turning away from the window. He knew that he couldn''t let the situation continue to escalate. The clash between traditional faith and the new worship of Hammer was a problem that wouldn''t go away on its own. If left unchecked, it could tear the town apart, undoing all the progress they had made. He had to find a way to keep the peace, to balance the old and the new, without resorting to force. But how?


    He needed to speak with the religious leaders, both the imams and the pastors, and perhaps even those who had begun to follow Hammer. A dialogue was needed, a way to bridge the gap between the different beliefs before things got out of hand. The idea of calling in more Hammer Security had been his first thought, but now he wasn''t so sure. Their presence might quell the unrest in the short term, but it wouldn''t solve the underlying problem. And Kelechi had no desire to turn his town into a police state, where people lived in fear of speaking their minds.


    No, the solution had to come from within the community, from the people themselves. They needed to find a way to coexist, to accept that their lives had changed, but that didn''t mean abandoning everything they once held dear. It was a delicate balance, and Kelechi knew it would take time, patience, and a willingness to listen - qualities that were often in short supply during times of rapid change.


    But Kelechi also knew that he couldn''t do it alone. He would need allies, people who shared his vision of a peaceful, prosperous town where everyone could thrive, regardless of their beliefs. He would need to rally the town''s elders, the respected figures who still held sway over the hearts and minds of the people. Together, they could guide the community through this turbulent time, steering them toward a future where both progress and tradition could coexist.


    As he made these resolutions, Kelechi felt a renewed sense of purpose. The challenges before him were daunting, but they were not insurmountable. He had faced difficult times before, and he had always found a way through. This time would be no different.


    Tomorrow, he would call a meeting with the religious leaders. He would listen to their concerns, share his own, and together they would find a way forward. It wouldn''t be easy - nothing worth doing ever was - but it was necessary. The town was on the brink of something great, and Kelechi was determined to see it through. He would do this without Hammer Security this time.


    He returned to his desk, picking up the phone to make the necessary arrangements. As he did, he caught a glimpse of his reflection in the darkened window - a man who had been thrust into a position of power, but who was still finding his way. The face that stared back at him was older than he remembered, lined with the burdens of leadership, but it was also resolute. Kelechi knew that he was doing what was right, not just for himself, but for his people.


    A sudden blast echoed across the sky, making him fall back, wondering if the sky''s themselves were falling.


    Unknown to him, this sound repeated across Africa.


    It was an awakening.


    <hr>


    Cairo,


    Deep beneath the ancient city of Cairo, far below the bustling streets and the sprawling markets, a chamber lay hidden within the earth - a relic of a time long forgotten by men. The chamber was enormous, its walls carved from the living rock, adorned with hieroglyphs that spoke of a power older than civilization itself. In the center of the chamber, upon a massive stone dais, lay a sarcophagus, black as night.


    The air was thick with the scent of age, of dust and stone and something else - something dark and potent, like the remnants of a nightmare. The only sound was the soft, rhythmic drip of water seeping through the cracks in the stone, echoing faintly in the cavernous space. It was a tomb, but also a throne room, a place where the past met the future, where death and rebirth were intertwined.


    Nathaniel Essex, better known as Mr. Sinister, stood before the sarcophagus, his crimson eyes gleaming with a mix of fear and anticipation. His pale, almost translucent skin seemed to glow faintly in the dim light. His long, flowing cape rustled softly as he moved, its metallic sheen catching the light from the few torches that flickered weakly along the chamber walls.


    Sinister''s lips curled into a nervous smile as he reached out, his fingers trembling slightly as they brushed against the cold surface of the sarcophagus. He knew what lay within - had spent years preparing for this moment once, studying the ancient texts, deciphering the hidden messages left by those who had worshiped the being inside as a god. And now, after all his efforts, and all his attempts to avoid this, the time had come to awaken the first mutant, the being known as En Sabah Nur - Apocalypse. Again.


    He''d done it once before, but had realized his mistake almost immediately and managed to put the monster back into slumber.


    He''d have preferred not to wake him now either, but Hammer industries was too much of a threat. He''d gotten Magneto under control after finding out that the man was actually cooperating with the worm.


    Mystique had been easy enough to get a hold of, and once he had her, his entire organization lay open for him to convert.


    But now it wasn''t enough. Asgard was in play, an entire alien civilization. He could not allow Hammer to get stronger. So he only had one more card to play, hoping it didn''t kill him.


    With a deep breath, Sinister activated the mechanism he had installed - a fusion of ancient Egyptian magic and celestial technology, a combination that only he, with his unparalleled genius, could have devised. The sarcophagus shuddered, and the air grew heavy with an electric charge. The hieroglyphs on the walls began to glow with an eerie blue light, casting twisted shadows across the chamber.


    For a moment, nothing happened, and Sinister''s smile faltered, a flicker of doubt crossing his mind. But then, with a low, rumbling groan, the lid of the sarcophagus began to slide open, releasing a cloud of ancient dust that swirled around Sinister''s feet. He took a step back, bowing his head in deference as the figure within began to stir.


    Apocalypse rose slowly, his massive form emerging from the darkness like a titan waking from an eon-long slumber. His skin was a deep, ashen blue, smooth and flawless, and his muscles bulged with a strength that seemed to defy the very concept of mortality. He was dressed in ornate armor that looked both ancient and impossibly advanced, its design a blend of alien technology and ancient craftsmanship, forged in a time when gods walked the earth. His eyes, glowing with a fierce, molten energy, locked onto Sinister with a gaze that could have shattered mountains.


    "Sinister," Apocalypse rumbled, his voice deep and resonant, filled with a power that seemed to shake the very foundations of the chamber. He took a step forward, his massive frame towering over the smaller man. "What is the meaning of this? What is the traitor doing here, waking me from my slumber finally?"


    It seemed he remembered his brief betrayal after all¡­ Not ideal.


    Sinister swallowed hard, the sneer in Apocalypse''s voice sending a shiver down his spine. He dropped to one knee, bowing low before the ancient mutant. "My lord, I apologize for disturbing your rest," He said, his voice dripping with the kind of slimy deference that came naturally to him. "But I have seen the error of my ways, and I have come to serve you once more. I have brought you an army, the world''s strongest mutants, all under my sway. With the celestial technology I found in the Savage Land, I have harnessed their power for you, turned them to my control."


    Apocalypse''s eyes narrowed, and his lips curled into a sneer. "You dare to speak to me of strength, Essex?" He spat, his voice like thunder. "There is no mutant stronger than I!" With a flick of his wrist, he sent a wave of energy crashing into Sinister, slamming him to the ground with a force that cracked the stone beneath him.


    Sinister cried out in pain, his body pinned to the ground by the sheer weight of Apocalypse''s power. His limbs trembled as he struggled to lift his head, his crimson eyes wide with terror as he looked up at the towering figure above him. "Please, my Lord!" He gasped, his voice trembling. "I only wish to serve! I can be of use to you!"


    Apocalypse stared down at him, his expression one of cold disdain. "Trust? I will not make that mistake again, Essex," He said, his voice a low growl. "But you may yet prove useful. Remember this, Essex - if you fail me, if you cease to be of use, I will end you."


    Sinister scrambled to his knees, nodding eagerly, his face a mask of desperate obedience. "I will not fail you, my Lord," He said quickly. "My army is ready. They await only your command."


    Apocalypse''s eyes flickered with a dangerous light, and he turned away from Sinister, his gaze sweeping over the chamber as if seeing it for the first time. The ancient power that had lain dormant within him for so long began to stir, crackling beneath his skin like a storm waiting to be unleashed.


    Slowly, deliberately, he rose to his full height, his body beginning to glow with a radiant, otherworldly light. The air around him shimmered with energy, growing thick with the scent of ozone. Sinister watched in awe, his heart pounding in his chest as he realized that he was witnessing something far beyond his comprehension. Apocalypse was awakening, and the world would tremble before him.


    With a sudden, explosive burst of power, Apocalypse unleashed his energy, a blast that shot straight up through the chamber, carving a trench through the earth above. The force of it was staggering, tearing through the ancient stone and rock, through the streets and buildings of Cairo above, until it erupted into the sky with a deafening roar. The shockwave rippled outward, spreading across the continent, shaking the very land with its might.


    Sinister shielded his eyes from the blinding light, his ears ringing with the sound of Apocalypse''s power. When the light finally dimmed, he dared to look up, his breath catching in his throat at the sight before him.


    Apocalypse stood in the center of the chamber, his body still glowing with residual energy, his eyes burning with a fierce, unyielding resolve. He turned his gaze back to Sinister, and for a moment, there was silence, a heavy, oppressive stillness that hung in the air like a curse.


    "I find I no longer have patience," Apocalypse rumbled, his voice filled with a cold, calculating fury. "This time, this world - it is mine."


    Sinister trembled, his fear and awe warring within him as he nodded fervently. "Yes, my Lord," He whispered, his voice barely audible. "The world is yours." At least I''ll get a piece, preferable to Hammer taking it all, with mutants as his slaves.


    Apocalypse said nothing, merely turning and walking toward the exit of the chamber, his footsteps echoing like the tolling of a great, terrible bell. Sinister scrambled to his feet, trailing after him like a shadow, his mind racing with thoughts of the future.


    He had chosen to awaken the ancient mutant not out of loyalty, but out of a desire for power, for the chance to stand beside the most powerful being the world had ever known, now that he had no other avenue to win. But now, as he watched Apocalypse ascend toward the surface, toward the world that would soon bow before him, Sinister couldn''t help but feel a pang of doubt, a small, gnawing fear that he had unleashed something far beyond his control.


    Could he remain alive enough to enjoy his piece of the world if Apocalypse conquered it and then challenged Asgard?


    But it was too late to turn back now. The world was about to change, and Sinister intended to be on the winning side.


    As they emerged from the depths of the earth, Apocalypse stood tall, his eyes scanning the city with a gaze that spoke of ancient power and unshakable purpose.


    "This world has forgotten what it means to fear the gods," He murmured, more to himself than to Sinister. "It is time they remembered."


    Sinister stood at his side, his mind filled with visions of conquest, of power beyond imagining. He had set the stage for the greatest battle the world had ever known, and now, all that remained was to watch it unfold.


    And as night fell over Cairo, the first mutant, the ancient Egyptian god of gods, stepped into the world once more.


    ¡­


    From the Savage Lands, a land hidden from the world, mutants sallied forth as the sign of Apocalypse''s awakening manifested, Magneto leading from the front, as mutant kind raced to show the world who was the superior species.


    They were creating a second flank, heading towards the Americas, a mutant capable of portals, shuffling them through ten at a time.


    Magneto rose into the air, shouting for all to hear, "The Earth belongs to Homo Superior!" Before flying through the portal, a rain of metal followed him.


    The battle between humanity and mutant kind was on.


    <hr>

 Apocalypse

    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, control center.


    The new nerve center of Hammer Industries buzzed with the frenetic energy of a place where the future was being shaped and controlled. The wall mounted screens hummed with the constant flow of information, and the air was thick with the quiet whirr of machines processing data at speeds incomprehensible to the human mind.


    This was the epicenter of Nail''s ''brain'' so to speak. At least the one on Earth. They had backups all across the planet in case this one was destroyed, and of course another up in space on their secret space station. Nail was too useful to ever risk in an attack or calamity.


    In the center of it all, Justin stood at his command station, eyes narrowed as he took in the streams of information flowing across multiple screens. His tailored suit was as crisp as ever, but there was a tension in his posture, a coiled spring ready to snap. He had been in the middle of reviewing the latest developments in their European operations when the first alert came in.


    They''d been caught completely flat footed this time.


    "Nail, report," He barked, his voice cutting through the hum of the room. His close retinue all busily working stations as they tracked information and tried to parse the situation in real time.


    Nail responded immediately. Her voice was cool and calm, devoid of any emotion, but still laced with an urgency that conveyed the gravity of the situation. "Sir, reports are coming in of a large-scale attack on New York City by Magneto. He is leading a small army of metahumans and has already caused significant damage. The city is in chaos, and local forces are being overwhelmed. Casualties are rising rapidly."


    "Numbers?" Phantazia immediately asked, eyes fixed on the screen she was working on, even as her eyes glowed as she sent messages and calls with the implant all his employees sported now.


    Nail promptly answered, "The fog of war has limited my ability to account for all variables, but through the New York CCTV system and citizens posted videos and screenshots, I approximate the force following Magneto to be at least 200 strong, with 189 distinct individuals processed, with the likelihood that I''ve missed several due to the destruction."


    Domino, eyes sharp as they flickered over several screens, bit out a curse, "How did he hide that many metahumans?"


    Justin''s hands clenched into a fist. "Magneto," He muttered, the name a curse on his lips. "Damn it. How the hell did he get the drop on us?" He slammed a fist down on the console, melting right through it in his rage, the drops of molten metal splattering around him, "If he also has a secret space base I''m going to lose it!"


    But before Nail could respond, another alert flashed across the central screen. Nail didn''t miss a beat. "Sir, a second report is incoming from Cairo. It appears there is another attack underway, this one by an unidentified being of immense power. Early surveillance shows significant destruction across the city, with structures liquefying and military forces being systematically obliterated. The entity is accompanied by your target - Sinister."


    Pictures and video were displayed on the screens immediately, everyone stopping what they''re doing at the sight of an alien looking man literally liquefying streets as Egyptian police vehicles and their inhabitants sunk and drowned as they watched - before the man clenched his fist, and crushed it all beneath him, as he strode forward, unbothered, Sinister spotted cowering in his shadow.


    Hammer''s heart skipped a beat, his mind racing to keep up with the torrent of information. Two simultaneous attacks - one in New York and one in Cairo - each spearheaded by forces he couldn''t easily combat, and who had struck without any warning - he didn''t even know who the hell the alien or metahuman was, that was doing a walkabout in Cairo! His thoughts flicked to his own people, scattered across the globe, each critical to his operations. He needed to protect them, secure his assets, and most importantly, maintain control.


    There would be losses to civilian life, but that would have to be born for now. He wasn''t sending his team in until he had more information.


    "Nail, get me everything you can on this new being in Cairo," Hammer snapped out, his voice sharper than the edge of a knife. "I want surveillance from every available satellite, drone, and camera. I want a profile built, and I want his next moves predicted. What is this thing, and what does it want? Nail, I want answers yesterday!"


    "Already in progress, sir," Nail responded efficiently, her algorithms processing terabytes of data in real-time. "I''m coordinating with global surveillance networks to track and analyze his movements, lip reading of Sinister suggests he calls himself Apocalypse. Preliminary reports suggest a level of power and control over matter that is unprecedented. Estimated casualties in Cairo and the surrounding region are already in the hundreds of thousands as Apocalypse collapsed parts of the city into a spontaneously created magma vein."


    Apocalypse is not a very promising name¡­  And what world do I live in where spontaneously creating a volcano out of nowhere is not the worst thing I could expect?


    Justin''s mind whirled. He felt the weight of the situation pressing down on him, threatening to crush him under its enormity, but he couldn''t afford to falter. There was too much at stake. He needed to move, to act, and to do so with the precision and ruthlessness that had built his empire. First he needed to ensure his assets were protected.


    "Get Kaecillius on the line," Justin ordered, his voice a low growl. "I want every class A employee in Cairo portaled out and up to the space station immediately. No delays, no screw-ups. Get them out now."


    I''m not losing Sunil, or Forge and Vanko! Not to this random monster!


    Kaecillius appeared on one of the smaller screens as the call connected through Nail, his expression calm but alert. "Understood, Master Hammer," He said, his tone professional. "I will begin the evacuation immediately."


    "Speed is of the essence," Justin added, his eyes narrowing. "If this thing in Cairo catches wind of what you''re doing¡­ We could be looking at a lot more than just a city in ruins." If he had to sacrifice all of Egypt to safeguard the three most important assets he had in Cairo at the moment¡­ He would.


    Thankfully neither Maya nor Helen was in New York or Cairo at the moment, saving him the effort and time to secure them as well. Just in case, he sent an email out, typing it out mentally in a few seconds - ensuring Maya and Helen would be taken to a black site immediately by his security forces.


    Kaecillius nodded at his orders and the screen blinked off as he got to work. Justin turned his attention back to the situation in New York, where Magneto''s attack was tearing the city apart. The mutant had always been a potential wildcard, but this - this was an outright assault on one of the most populated and monitored cities in the world.


    This was going to do terrible things to metahuman vs human relations. Well¡­ If he didn''t have an AI who would ensure to drown the aftermath in obfuscation and stories to put the blame elsewhere.


    Still¡­ The timing for this was absolutely awful.


    "Yelena!" Justin yelled, snapping his fingers as he moved quickly across the room, a thought hitting him like a thunderbolt.


    Yelena looked up from her own console, her icy blue eyes meeting his with steel in them. "What do you need, sir?" she asked, likely anticipating action. But he wouldn''t risk any of them, not yet. This was something else.


    "Get Stark on the line. I want him to keep the hell away from New York," Justin ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument. With Stark tower in the process of being built, there were decent odds the man was in New York.


    He didn''t want to leave everything to Nail right now, as the AI really needed to figure out Apocalypse and how to best counter him, utilizing most of her power on that matter.


    A few phone calls wouldn''t make a difference perhaps, but he wasn''t taking chances. Not when he had people at hand who could do the work just as well.


    Yelena hesitated, a rare flicker of doubt crossing her usually impassive features. "You realize that means we''ll be revealing we know his identity," She pointed out. "Once we do that, we lose any leverage we might have had in that direction."


    Justin cursed under his breath. She was right, of course. Tony Stark''s identity as Iron Man was one of the worst-kept secrets in the world, at least when it came to any intelligence agency, but admitting it openly would strip them of a card they could have played at a critical moment in public. But this - this wasn''t just about playing the game anymore. This was survival.


    Tony Stark could not go anywhere near Magneto.


    "I don''t give a damn," Justin finally said, harshly, the frustration boiling over. "If Stark gets anywhere near Magneto, he''s dead. Magneto will crush him without even trying. I want him nowhere near New York. Now!"


    Perhaps the man would be intelligent enough to realize it himself. But Justin wasn''t taking any chances on the idiots'' potential self sacrificing ways.


    Yelena nodded, her fingers already flying over the keyboard as she worked to make contact. The tension in the room was palpable, the air thick with the urgency of the moment. Justin could feel his pulse pounding in his temples, but he couldn''t afford to stop, not now. Not with everything on the line.


    In the next few minutes he spoke with the President, the WSC, and Ross, helping coordinate the response - at least against Magneto. There weren''t many assets in Africa that weren''t his.


    Nail quietly reported Storm was flying full speed towards Cairo. And Justin wished her luck, but he couldn''t send his own team to assist. Not yet. They didn''t have enough information.


    Suddenly, a priority call rang through his implant, cutting through the din of the command center like a knife for him. The screen on his glasses lit up with a name that made his heart skip a beat - Hope. No, you''re not anywhere near this! He begged internally.


    His mind racing with sudden worry, he answered the call. "Hope, what the hell are you doing? Where are you?" he demanded, his voice laced with an edge of panic he couldn''t quite hide.


    She had still refused to be enhanced to the extent the others were, he didn''t want her anywhere near either front.


    He winced as he saw Ross power armor division was giving the go ahead to fly into New York pop up on the screens. Sending the goblin suits against Magneto was pure suicide. Even with plastic weaponry, they''d never get a shot off before he dealt with them. He gave it nothing but a look and a shake of his head, as his focus immediately returned to Hope as she answered his pleas.


    Hope''s voice came through the line, calm and steady, but with an underlying tension that matched his own. "I''m in New York," She said, her words sending a jolt of fear through him. "I''m ready to assist." The Wasp suit was not ready for someone of Magneto''s stature.


    The room seemed to still around him, the noise and chaos fading into the background as Justin''s world narrowed to the phone call. "What? No - no, Hope, you need to get the hell out of there!" He snapped, his voice tight with panic. "You cannot go near Magneto. Do you hear me? Stand down, that''s an order!"


    Domino and Yelena shared a look as his shout echoed across the command center, Yelena shaking her head with thinned lips.


    "People are dying, Justin," Hope replied, her voice soft but resolute. "We don''t have a choice. If I can get there in time, I can help. I can make a difference, he''ll never even see me coming."


    "Damn it, Hope, you don''t understand - " Justin started, but she cut him off.


    "I''m sorry, Justin," She said, and he could hear the determination in her voice. "But I have a duty. I''ll be careful. I promise it''ll be okay."


    The line went dead, and for a moment, Justin just stood there. His mind was a whirlwind of fear, anger, and frustration. He couldn''t lose Hope - not to this, not to Magneto. Not when they were on the brink of something so monumental.


    Maybe they wouldn''t work out. Maybe they were too different, maybe his secrets would disgust her. But he was willing to give it a try. And now she was in the middle of a warzone, heading for Magneto, while in a metal suit!


    He turned to Nail, his voice shaking with barely controlled rage. "Nail, as soon as Kaecillius has anyone important out of Cairo, have him home in on Hope''s tracker and portal her out of New York. I don''t care what it takes - get her out of there!" She can hate me later, but she''ll be alive.


    "Understood, sir," Nail responded smoothly, already recalculating her operations to account for the change.


    The command center continued to be a hive of activity, every corner of the room buzzing with voices as Domino, Yelena, and Phantazia shouted orders through their implants, coordinating the massive, multifaceted response to the crisis. Phantazia''s fingers moved in a blur over her keyboard, multitasking to an insane degree as she was likewise sending out orders mentally and audibly.


    "Get those satellite feeds up now, Nail!" Phantazia yelled, her voice cutting through the noise. "I want eyes on every street corner, every building. We need to know exactly where Magneto and his army are at all times to plan a counter offensive."


    Domino was barking orders into her own comm, her tone brisk and commanding. "Pull our people out of Manhattan now - get them to the rally points, and tell them to hunker down until we can extract them. We''re not losing anyone today, you hear me? Not one!"


    The room was a tempest of organized chaos, every person operating at the peak of their ability, every second counting down like the last grains of sand in an hourglass. Justin''s mind raced, processing a dozen different streams of information at once, his thoughts moving faster than his words could keep up.


    "Nail, I want casualty estimates for New York," Justin demanded, his voice clipped and harsh.


    There was a pause, just long enough for Nail''s calculations to complete. "By my estimates, if this is not stopped within the hour, you''re looking at two million dead in New York alone, sir."


    Magneto is really going full stop, tearing skyscrapers apart¡­ Justin knew it was only a matter of time before someone decided to try a nuclear strike to stop him.


    He couldn''t even blame them.


    Unfortunately, unless they had plastic nukes and managed to hide that from Nail, it wouldn''t do much good..


    "And if we can''t stop it today?" Justin ground out, a feeling of helplessness running through him.


    "Total loss of New York, sir, death toll over fifteen million."


    <hr>


    Cairo,


    Apocalypse strode through the heart of Cairo with a measured, deliberate pace, his every step echoing like the tolling of a great bell through the streets. The city lay in his path like a lamb before the slaughter, its ancient walls and modern structures alike trembling in the wake of his reawakening. The sky above was a mottled gray, thick with the smoke of burning buildings, and the distant wail of sirens played a mournful symphony against the backdrop of the chaos he had unleashed.


    Behind him, Sinister followed like a shadow, his once-arrogant demeanor now tempered by a barely concealed fear. He watched as Apocalypse moved with an air of unassailable confidence, a titan in a world of insects, utterly unbothered by the panic that gripped the city.


    Ahead, the Egyptian military had scrambled into position, their armored vehicles lined up in a futile attempt to stop the advancing god. Tanks, personnel carriers and even artillery were lined up, with gunships hovering in the air, all bristling with weaponry. Soldiers barked orders and readied their weapons, their faces a mix of determination and dread. They were the best Egypt had to offer, and yet, Apocalypse regarded them with the same indifference one might afford a swarm of flies.


    With a flick of his wrist, Apocalypse brought his power to bear. The lead tank, a massive metal beast with a barrel capable of leveling a building, crumpled like paper. Metal screamed as it twisted and bent, the tank folding in on itself, its once-deadly cannon now a useless hunk of mangled steel. The crew inside barely had time to react before they were crushed, their screams cut short as the vehicle was compacted into a cube of scrap.


    Another lazy gesture, and the gunships in the air exploded into fireballs as if a small star was born inside, their pieces raining down in a deadly hail. Helicopters spun out of control, their rotors sheared off by invisible forces, crashing into the streets below. Those that attempted to flee found themselves suddenly gripped by a telekinetic force that ripped them apart mid-air, scattering debris and body parts across the city.


    Apocalypse continued his march, his expression one of mild disdain. Bullets fired at him vaporized before they could touch his skin, dissolving into dust in the air. Missiles exploded harmlessly against a barrier of raw energy that surrounded him, the force of their blasts redirected back at the military lines, tearing through vehicles and soldiers alike. The buildings on either side of him began to liquefy, the concrete and steel flowing like water, forming great, towering waves that crashed down upon those foolish enough to resist. The structures disintegrated into nothingness, reduced to their base elements by the sheer magnitude of his will.


    He reached out with his mind, his consciousness expanding to touch the minds of millions around him. The city was a cacophony of thoughts and fears, a maelstrom of chaos that he sifted through with ease. He read their terror, their desperation, their pitiful hopes that this was all just a nightmare. The corner of his lips curled into a sneer as he plumbed the depths of their minds, seeing for himself the weakness that had taken root in humanity.


    How far you have fallen, En Sabah Nur mused, his thoughts echoing with ancient contempt. Although he supposed Apocalypse would be what he''d go by from now on, as he brought it to the world as it so needed. Once, you were a race that understood fear, that knew what it meant to tremble before the unknown. You fought for survival, for dominance, and in that crucible of terror, you grew strong. But now¡­ He glanced at the remnants of the military forces, the wreckage of their futile defense scattered across the streets, Now you cower behind your machines, believing them to be your salvation, when they are nothing but shackles that bind you to your own impotence.


    He extended a hand, and the street before him split open, the asphalt cracking and buckling as a chasm formed in the earth. From within, molten rock surged upward, a geyser of lava spewing forth and consuming all in its path. The soldiers screamed as the ground beneath them melted away, the very earth rebelling against their presence. Apocalypse barely spared them a second glance, his attention already shifting to the city beyond even as the soldiers burned.


    Technology, he thought with disdain, It has its place, as a tool, as a servant to the powerful. But you have become its slaves, living your lives in service to your own creations, allowing them to dictate your every action. You have forgotten the true source of power - strength, fear, domination. These are the forces that shape the worl, the forces that drive evolution. And you have lost them all.


    As he walked, Apocalypse reached out with his mind, sending tendrils of telepathic power spiraling through the city. He could feel the fear gripping the hearts of the people, the primal terror that had been buried deep within them, now rising to the surface. It was a fear they had not known in generations - a fear that went beyond the everyday anxieties of modern life. It was the fear of death, of destruction, of a power so vast and ancient that it made their entire existence seem insignificant.


    It was fear that had evolved humanity. Until they''d now succumbed to this lazy and pathetic existence. It was the fear of gods that they''d left behind, that allowed this weakness to set in.


    Yes, Apocalypse thought, his sneer deepening, This is what you need, what you have forgotten. Fear is the engine of evolution, the catalyst that drives you to adapt, to overcome. Without it, you have become stagnant, weak, complacent. You live your lives in comfort, without challenge, without the threat of annihilation to hone your instincts, to make you stronger.


    He watched as civilians fled before him, their minds filled with terror. Some cowered in the ruins of buildings, others ran through the streets, desperate to escape his wrath. But there was no escape. Apocalypse was everywhere, his presence a dark shadow over the city, a force of nature that could not be outrun.


    "You have lost your way," He called out, his voice echoing across the city, "You have forgotten the value of fear, the way it sharpens the mind, strengthens the body. You have forgotten that the strong rule, and the weak serve. But I will remind you. I will scour the weakness from this world, purging the frailty that has taken root in your souls. Those who survive will be worthy to serve me, to live under my rule. And those who do not¡­" He let the words trail off, the implication clear.


    Another building liquefied at his command, the structure collapsing inward as its materials reverted to their most basic state. He moved through the wreckage, untouched by the chaos he created, a god among men. The cries of the dying were nothing more than a distant murmur to him, their lives inconsequential in the grand design he envisioned.


    "I am not a tyrant," Apocalypse said softly, his mind touching the collective consciousness of the city even as he looked straight into the drone from a news station that was recording him, "I am a savior. I am here to provide a service, to cleanse the world of its weakness, to prepare it for a new age. An age where strength and fear rule, where those who survive will be worthy of life. You will grow stronger in your fear of me, you will evolve, or you will perish. This is the natural order, the way it has always been, and the way it will be again." He promised.


    He lifted his gaze to the horizon, where the rest of the world awaited his judgment. Cairo was but the beginning, the first step in a grand design that would sweep across the planet, reshaping it in his image. There would be no place for the weak in his new world, no room for those who clung to their machines and their comforts. Only those who embraced fear, who grew stronger in the face of it, would survive to serve him.


    Some would survive despite not being worthy, like those worms like Sinister who could remain useful, even if he''d undoubtedly betray him again, as such worms did. He''d make sure to show him the folly of such a thing this time.


    "I will remake this world," Apocalypse vowed, his eyes burning with ancient power, "I will forge it anew, in my image, and from its ashes, a new race will rise. A race of the strong, the worthy, the evolved. And I will be their ruler, their god, for all eternity!"


    He continued to walk through the ruins of Cairo, his every step a declaration of his power, his every thought a decree of the future that awaited humanity. The world would tremble before him, and in that trembling, it would grow strong.


    He allowed the camera to keep filming, having plucked out of nearby minds what its purpose was the moment it showed up.


    The world deserved to see and despair the coming of Apocalypse.


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven,


    Justin''s mind raced as the events on Earth spiraled further out of control. The reports from New York and Cairo were grim. He had made a name for himself by staying ahead of the curve, anticipating threats before they could manifest - for the most part anyway. But this¡­ This was different. Magneto''s sudden, brutal attack on New York was bad enough, but the chaos being unleashed by Apocalypse in Cairo threatened to destabilize everything he''d built.


    And damn that idiot Tiberius Stone for having the gall to livestream Apocalypse''s slow walk through Cairo.


    Already all over the world people were asking, where was H.A.M.M.E.R?


    He couldn''t afford to take chances - not when the stakes were this high. They needed to get a better read on Apocalypse before they could strike with overwhelming force and remove him from the board before he could strike at them.


    Justin still stood in the center of his command station, molten slag as it was, it still gave a better view of all the screens. He was still surrounded by the controlled chaos of his most trusted operatives coordinating their global response. His tailored suit clung to him, drenched in the sweat of mounting tension. The screens around him flashed with real-time data - casualty numbers, satellite imagery of the carnage, and a rapidly updating list of Hammer Industries'' personnel across the globe. His mind flicked to Kaecillius, who was handling the evacuations in Cairo, but his instincts screamed that more needed to be done - and fast.


    He couldn''t wait for Kaecillius. The sorcerer was skilled, but even his speed had limits when he had to be careful not to draw the attention of Apocalypse. Justin''s people were in danger, and the idea of any of them being caught in the crossfire of the carnage was unacceptable.


    Even him staying here was a risk, this could be Magneto''s next target, once opposition solidified in New York.


    "Domino, Phantazia, Yelena," Justin said sharply, his voice cutting through the noise, "Prepare to move. We''re getting off this rock."


    Without waiting for a response, Justin spun on his heel and strode towards an open spot off the center of the room, his heart pounding in his chest. The air was thick with the scent of ozone, a byproduct of the advanced electronics he''d melted through in his rage, but now it felt stifling, oppressive, unsafe. The command center seemed to close in around him, a pressure that mirrored the weight of the decisions he had to make. He reached into his suit and pulled out the sling ring, the enchanted artifact cool and smooth against his skin.


    With practiced precision, Justin made a circular motion in the air, and a glowing orange portal sprang to life before him, its edges crackling with energy. Beyond the portal lay the interior of Hammer Industries'' space station, a sleek, sterile haven high above Earth''s atmosphere.


    One that the enemy wouldn''t know about, and where they would remain safe, in a worst case scenario.


    "Move!" Justin ordered, motioning for his closest subordinates to follow with a sharp hand gesture.


    Domino was the first to react, her eyes scanning the portal with a mixture of readiness and unease. "You really think we need to bail out like this?" she asked, her voice low but carrying a note of underlying tension.


    "We can''t afford to be caught flat-footed," Justin replied, his tone clipped as he stared at the portal. "Too many unknowns. We need to be where we can regroup if things go south."


    Yelena nodded in agreement, her sharp eyes flicking between him and the portal. "If this goes as bad as it looks like it might, we need to be ready to strike from above." She murmured.


    If Justin thought an orbital strike would solve this, he''d already have ordered one. But this Apocalypse was showing off a new power every damn minute, and he couldn''t afford to blow up Egypt just to have the damn monster walk it off.


    Phantazia stepped closer, her fingers brushing the edge of his arm, eyes intent on him, almost judging. "And what about Cairo and New York?" She asked, her voice a quiet murmur, though there was no mistaking the concern in her tone. "Kaecillius is still down there. We should be helping."


    "We will," Justin said, his voice tight. "But we need to secure ourselves first. Then we''ll make our move."


    Without another word, Justin stepped through the portal, his senses tingling as he crossed the threshold. The cool, sterile air of the space station greeted him, a contrast to the thick, oppressive atmosphere of Earth below. He could feel the shift in gravity as his feet touched the polished metal floor, the subtle adjustment as his body acclimated to the station''s artificial environment.


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    His people followed swiftly, their faces set with grim determination. As soon as they were through, Justin turned back to the portal, his thoughts already racing ahead to his next move. He could feel the seconds ticking away, each one carrying the weight of thousands of lives. The situation in Cairo was deteriorating rapidly, and there was no telling how long Kaecillius would need to gather up all class A personnel.


    Justin wasn''t going to leave it to chance.


    He opened another portal, this time leading back to the command center in Hammerhaven as a relay of sorts; he didn''t want to give even a momentary glimpse of his space station to anyone.


    The space seemed colder now, the shadows longer, the ever-present hum of machinery a constant reminder of the precarious situation as live updates flashed across the walls. Justin moved with purpose, his steps echoing in the otherwise silent room - Domino would no doubt be pissed at him for suddenly disappearing without her, but this needed doing now. Without hesitation, he opened yet another portal, this one glowing with an intensity that matched the urgency he felt.


    The portal flared, revealing the familiar space of the X-Mansion''s front lawn. Charles Xavier was there, as Justin expected, Nail having kept him in the loop, seated in his wheelchair with a steely resolve etched on his features. Behind him, the X-Men stood ready, their faces hard with resolve. Cyclops, Wolverine, Jean Grey, and Beast, amongst others - each one a warrior in their own right, prepared for the battle ahead.


    "I trust you''re all caught up," Justin said curtly, waving them through towards another portal he''d just made. "I''m sending you to Cairo. You need to hold that monster back long enough for the rest of our forces to arrive. Storm''s on her way, but you''re going in first." He knew without a doubt they''d likely intended to stop Magneto, but honestly, Magneto just knew them too well, and some, like Logan, would be useless there.


    Xavier looked grim as he accepted the change in assignment without a word. The man had likely already figured it out before Justin arrived, if he''d been following the broadcasts.


    Magneto was the lesser threat. And Justine was calling in his chit. This was an alliance, and it was time for the X-Men to show it.


    Cyclops stepped forward, his face set in grim determination. "We''re ready," He said, his voice low and resolute. "We''ll do whatever it takes."


    But as the X-Men began to move toward the portal, Xavier wheeled forward, drawing a sharp intake of breath from the others. Wolverine''s eyes narrowed, and Jean Grey''s brow furrowed in concern.


    "Professor," Jean began, her voice tinged with worry, "You shouldn''t be going with us. It''s too dangerous."


    Xavier''s gaze remained fixed on the portal, his expression unyielding. "I have to, Jean. This metahuman''s telepathic power is immense - too great for me to fully comprehend from here. If I''m not there with you, I fear you''ll all be overwhelmed by his mind. I must be there to counter his influence, to give you a fighting chance."


    Justin''s face tightened at hearing of the telepathy of this monster, how many powers does he have? His mind was calculating the risks, and not liking what it found... "What about the implants? The ones we all have - they''ve been enough to block most telepathy so far." He asked hurriedly, if we can''t even protect our minds¡­


    Xavier''s expression was grave as he turned to Justin. "Your implants are effective against me, yes. But I can''t say for certain about this metahuman. His power is beyond anything I''ve encountered. The implants might not be enough."


    For a moment, the room was silent, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife. Justin could feel the weight of the decision pressing down on him. It was a gamble, but when it came down to it, he''d rather gamble with the X-Men than his own crew.


    Finally, Justin nodded, his voice hard. "Fine. Go along and learn what you can, protect your team and we''ll have backup on the way shortly." If you live long enough for that¡­


    In his mind he was already resigned to risking the lives of the people he''d grown close to. He''d need them to face Magneto, to bring him down to allow H.A.M.M.E.R to wipe out the forces he''d brought with him.


    The US military was already on its way, which meant War Machine was on its way to lead a division of power armor. Justin needed to get Magneto down before they arrived.


    It would not do to win all this, to then have Iron Man execute General Ross for getting his honeybear killed¡­


    Xavier inclined his head at Justin''s words, acknowledging the command, though both men knew there were no guarantees of back up. Luckily heroes were the self sacrificing sort. The X-Men moved through the portal, their expressions a mix of determination and unease. Xavier was the last to enter, his eyes meeting Justin''s one last time before he disappeared through the glowing circle.


    He watched as the X-Men and Xavier went through, vanishing into the chaotic landscape of Cairo. The portal shimmered and closed, leaving Justin alone with his thoughts, wondering if any of them would survive.


    Coldly deciding their deaths were worth it if he could get enough data to strike at Apocalypse.


    For a moment, Justin stood still, his thoughts a whirlwind of calculations and contingencies. The space station was his fallback, his last line of defense, but he couldn''t shake the feeling that even this might not be enough. If Apocalypse was as powerful as Xavier feared, then this was only the beginning if they couldn''t get him down.


    Like against Thanos in the movies, divided they fell. Could he afford to leave them alone against Apocalypse, no matter how beneficial? Was his decision wrong? Was he going to get them all killed by wasting the X-Men?


    Justin gritted his teeth, forcing the doubts aside. He couldn''t afford to think like that. Not now. He activated the sling ring once more, opening a portal back to the space station. The glowing circle beckoned, a passage to safety, to regrouping.


    When he entered, he saw Kaecillius, and most of the Hammer team, as well as Sunil, all safe and sound.


    Domino and Yelena both stomped up to him, eyes flashing with anger, but he stopped them, "We don''t have time, yell at me if we survive." He said clippedly, walking up to Kaecillius briskly, waving Phantazia closer.


    "The Extremis solution worked on getting you out of Sinister''s grip." He told her, watching as her face settled in cold resignation. He felt a shiver up his spine at the risks he was about to take, "Take Domino and Kaecillius, go to New York, use portals to get close to Magneto, use your power to mess with his, Domino will cover your backs." He turned to Kaecillius, "Get several shots of Extremis, once Magneto is distracted, make a small portal behind him and stick him, then get out, no unnecessary risks." He ordered.


    Phantazia nodded, "We''ll get it done, sir." She said, looking pained to be going against the brotherhood in battle.


    Domino grabbed Justin by the collar, hissing at him, "If I''m going with them, then you''re not setting a foot off this station, got it?"


    "You''re missing a sir, somewhere in there." He said dryly, comforted by the usual dynamic between them, especially at a time like this.


    "Eat shit, sir!" She snarked, before joining Phantazia and Kaecillius, the trio soon disappearing from sight.


    Justin turned to Frank and Bucky, "Get everyone suited up, the second we get word Magneto is down, you''re all going in, no mercy, every invader dies."


    Hopefully Magneto will have fucked off to go after Sinister by then.


    Either way they couldn''t wait much longer. One threat needed to be removed - so they could all focus on the major one.


    It was a gamble,


    He was rolling the dice.


    If it came up snake eyes he''d have no other option but orbital bombardment.


    <hr>


    Cairo,


    The X-Men stood among the ruins of Cairo, where the ancient city''s beauty had been reduced to rubble. Dust and smoke filled the air, and the ground was scarred with cracks and fissures. Buildings lay shattered, their remnants still smoldering. The sound of distant sirens was a constant reminder of the chaos and devastation that had overtaken the city - and also a sign there was still life in the city.


    Leading the team, Cyclops scanned the area through his visor, its red lens reflecting nothing but devastation wherever he looked. Wolverine, his adamantium claws glinting, stood ready for battle just looking for their enemy.


    The rest of the X-Men were spreading out, wary of being caught with their pants down, all of them tense and ready to strike at the slightest provocation.


    Xavier''s voice resonated in their minds, offering guidance and strength. Stay focused, he is nearby, that is all I can tell with his immense psychic presence, we are not alone, backup will arrive.


    The team moved forward cautiously, their senses heightened as they advanced through the ruins. The air was heavy with tension, every sound amplified by the oppressive silence that surrounded them - the screams of the wounded and dying breaking their hearts as they moved past them, not having the time or capabilities to help right now. They could feel Apocalypse''s presence in the air, an overwhelming pressure that bore down on them, making the hairs on the backs of their necks stand on end.


    A deep, rumbling chuckle suddenly echoed through the streets, and the X-Men froze. The sound reverberated off the broken walls, sending a chill down their spines. From the shadows ahead, a massive figure stepped into view.


    Apocalypse emerged, towering over the crumbling cityscape. His blue skin seemed to glow with an eerie, unnatural light, and his eyes burned with a menacing energy. He wore ancient armor adorned with symbols of power long forgotten by mankind, and his every movement radiated confidence - an unshakeable belief in his own superiority.


    "Children, nothing but children," Apocalypse intoned, his voice deep and resonant, carrying a tone of dark amusement. "You dare to challenge me? How amusing¡­ At least you''re a cut above the rabble, perhaps even¡­ Worthy?" He craned his neck, "Or is your fear pressed down by the cripple, making you brave enough to face me?"


    Don''t let his words get to you, you''re all brave in your own right, here to defend our world, our way of life, Xavier sent to them, being guarded by Mimic, who stood tense as he watched Apocalypse stroll forward without a care in the world.


    Without hesitation, Cyclops gave the order. "X-Men, attack!" He commanded, firing a powerful optic blast at Apocalypse, widening it as to take his sight away even if he could handle the power of the attack.


    The beam shot through the air, a concentrated force of energy that could demolish a building with ease. It struck Apocalypse directly in the chest, but the ancient being didn''t even flinch. The energy dissipated harmlessly against him, as though it were no more than a gentle breeze.


    Apocalypse''s lips twisted into a smirk. "Is that truly the best you can muster?" He said, in a way that would come off as mocking on anyone else, his voice actually dripping with condescension and disappointment.


    Before Cyclops could react, Apocalypse lifted a hand and unleashed a wave of telekinetic force. The invisible energy struck the X-Men like a freight train, sending them flying backward. Cyclops crashed to the ground, his visor cracked from the impact, while Jean was hurled into a pile of debris, her telekinetic shield barely protecting her and the others.


    Without her, they might have all been pasted right then and there. She groaned in pain as she struggled to climb out of the debris.


    Wolverine, however, was on his feet almost instantly, his regenerative abilities healing his injuries in seconds. With a feral growl, he charged at Apocalypse, his claws gleaming as he slashed at the towering figure, intent on cutting him to strips.


    Apocalypse moved with lightning speed, catching Wolverine by the throat in mid-air. His grip was iron, unyielding, and he held Wolverine aloft with ease, studying him closely.


    "You have spirit," Apocalypse said, his voice laced with curiosity as he studied Wolverine. "I can sense the beast within you, the rage that drives you. You are different from the others... Almost worthy."


    With a flick of his wrist, Apocalypse slammed Wolverine into the ground, creating a crater beneath him. Wolverine''s bones cracked under the force, but his healing factor quickly began its work, mending the damage as he groaned in pain.


    Undeterred, Wolverine pushed himself up, his eyes blazing with fury. "I ain''t done with you yet," He snarled, his voice thick with determination as he lunged at Apocalypse again.


    Apocalypse carelessly threw Beast into a building meanwhile, before sending a sonic blast that splattered Nightcrawler across several walls as the metahuman attempted to flank him, cries coming from the rest of the X-Men at how effortlessly one of them died.


    Apocalypse tilted his head, watching Wolverine''s relentless struggle with a mix of amusement and disdain as Wolverine refused to give in to despair. With a simple gesture, the ground beneath Wolverine became malleable, and he sank into it up to his waist, trapped.


    "Why do you persist?" Apocalypse asked, his tone now almost contemplative. "You know you cannot win, yet you continue to fight. Is it sheer stubbornness, or something deeper? What drives you?" Another beam from Cyclops, and a psychic blast from Jean were carelessly shielded as he studied Wolverine, looking almost pleased.


    Wolverine''s eyes narrowed as he glared up at Apocalypse. "Because someone''s gotta stand up to monsters like you," He growled, his voice filled with pain and fury. "No matter what."


    Apocalypse regarded him for a moment, then nodded slowly, as if acknowledging some hidden truth. "Indeed, you are different from the others. You have potential... You are¡­Worthy."


    Before Apocalypse could continue, Jean Grey, her eyes glowing with intense psychic energy, launched her most powerful telepathic attack. The raw force of her mental assault would have overwhelmed most opponents - but Apocalypse barely noticed.


    With a casual wave of his hand, he increased the gravitational force around Jean. She gasped as she was forced to the ground, the pressure building so rapidly that she felt as though her bones might snap. Her telekinetic shield flickered as she struggled to stay upright, but the weight was too much. The ground beneath her began to crack, and she was slowly pushed down into the earth, her mind screaming in protest.


    "Pathetic," Apocalypse muttered, dismissing her, as he turned his attention back to Cyclops, Beast and the others.


    Xavier''s attempt to help Jean finally began to bear fruit as Apocalypse completely dropped any thoughts of her, focusing on what was in front of him.


    Cyclops, struggling to his feet, let out a scream of frustration and fired another optic blast, this one even more powerful than the last. The beam of energy was blinding, cutting through the smoke and debris, aimed directly at Apocalypse''s face.


    But Apocalypse simply raised his hand, catching the beam as if it were nothing. The energy crackled in his palm, the light reflecting off his cold eyes as he studied it.


    "Decent," Apocalypse said, his voice calm and measured. "But not quite enough."


    He turned his gaze to Cyclops, who was struggling to maintain the blast, his body trembling with the effort. Apocalypse''s eyes narrowed as he considered the young leader, then, with a flick of his wrist, he redirected the energy back. But not at Cyclops.


    Iceman screamed as he was devoured by the blast, Cyclops watching in horror, the trap Iceman had been building disappearing as he died. Before Cyclops could do anything else, Apocalypse sent his own beam, a copy of what Cyclops had done, back at him as well, a contemplative look on his face.


    The beam struck Cyclops with devastating force, knocking him off his feet and sending him crashing into the side of a building. He slumped to the ground, his visor shattered, blood seeping from the corners of his mouth, broken bones visibly poking out of his skin.


    "Not worthy." Apocalypse said with a sigh, walking past the struggling Wolverine.


    "Scott!" Jean''s voice rang out, filled with horror and desperation as she struggled to free herself from the ground, but she was too weak to help him.


    Apocalypse turned away from the fallen Cyclops, his expression one of bored disdain. The X-Men were proving to be less of a challenge than he had hoped, and their fear was almost palpable, feeding his sense of superiority.


    "Is this truly the best you have to offer?" Apocalypse called out, his voice resonating through the ruins like a death knell. "If you kneel, I will perhaps give you a chance to improve, become something worthy." He offered.


    At that moment, the skies darkened, as lightning struck Apocalypse, Colossus taking the chance to throw a car at him, even as Banshee blasted him with as much sonic pressure as she could manage.


    Storm descended from the sky, eyes white as the skies themselves fell upon Apocalypse.


    Apocalypse easily brushed off Banshee''s shout, the car not even registering to him as it bounced off him, his eyes only for Storm, "Worthy¡­" He muttered in consideration.


    Before he could say more, a thunderous roar shook the air, and the ground beneath them trembled violently. Apocalypse barely had time to react before a massive green figure crashed into him with the force of a freight train. The Hulk, a creature of pure, primal rage, slammed into Apocalypse, driving him back with a barrage of powerful blows.


    Apocalypse''s eyes widened slightly in surprise as he was forced to take a step back, the sheer power of the Hulk''s attack catching him off guard. The two titans clashed, their fists meeting with explosive force, sending shockwaves through the ruins.


    From the shadows, Captain America emerged, his shield gleaming in the dim light as he moved quickly to get past the rubble, the X-Men left gaping in shock at his passage. He was followed closely by Hawkeye taking a perch on a mostly intact building, his bow at the ready, and Black Widow, her gaze focused and determined as she helped Cyclops, dragging him away from the battle.


    "Everyone, move in, don''t give him a chance to catch his breath!" Captain America ordered, his voice calm but commanding.


    Hawkeye nocked an arrow and fired, the projectile streaking through the air toward Apocalypse, before splitting into three, each exploding into big globs of glue as they struck Apocalypse''s legs.


    Apocalypse broke through the glue with ease, sending a beam of pure destruction at Hawkeye, who simply allowed himself to fall off the building to avoid it. He turned just in time to catch the Hulk''s fist with his own, the impact creating a crater beneath their feet.


    "So, something interesting has joined the fray together with the rabble," Apocalypse mused, his voice carrying a tone of grudging respect. "Perhaps you will provide the challenge I seek." His punch was enough to launch the Hulk back, crushing Wolverine as the Hulk rolled over him, the regenerating metahuman cursing up a storm as he tried to claw his way out of the ground.


    Storm and Jean both went to assist him, urged there by Xavier. Jean cried even as she worked, eyes flickering from the dead, to the ones like Beast and Cyclops who were out of action. I''m useless, all I can do is watch people die¡­


    As the battle raged on, Captain America leaped into the fray, his shield raised as he charged at Apocalypse, only to be tossed away with contemptuous ease by Apocalypse as the Hulk continued his assault, each of his punches causing the ground to tremble.


    Meanwhile, up in the space station, Justin watched the battle unfold on multiple screens, his heart pounding in his chest. His command center buzzed with frantic activity, operatives working at a fever pitch to analyze the situation below. The images on the monitors were chaotic - an overwhelming blur of destruction and combat.


    "Nail, what the hell is going on!?" Justin demanded, his voice sharp with a mix of anger and confusion.


    Nail''s voice responded calmly, though there was a hint of urgency in her tone. "Sir, the Hulk and several other individuals have emerged from the Nile. They appear to be part of a larger force led by a man with wings on his feet." As everyone processed this, she added another bombshell, "Iron Man is with them, he just popped up on satellite feeds."


    Justin''s eyes widened in disbelief. "What is even going on anymore!?" He''d suspected of course that Atlantis was real. The underwater kingdom was the most likely culprit for all the trouble with Wakanda. Yet for them to show up now, and with who they showed up with¡­ And why the hell is Tony with them all of a sudden!?


    "It would explain why Nick Fury was difficult to locate," Nail continued. "It appears that this is where Fury and his team have been based. They have now engaged Apocalypse directly."


    Justin couldn''t help but feel a surge of frustration mixed with disbelief. He knew other people had secrets, god knows he''d run into a few, like the Hellfire club that he''d had no idea existed in the manner it did. But this¡­.


    Justin couldn''t believe what he was hearing. Fury, that elusive mastermind, had been hiding under the ocean all this time. Atlantis, the mythical underwater kingdom, was not only real but had also served as a base of operations for Fury and his new Avengers. And now, in the middle of the chaos, they had chosen this moment to reveal themselves.


    Fury, who had fucked up everything since Wakanda, had somehow managed this¡­ Justin should have killed the man when he had a chance. He did not enjoy being blindsided.


    Even if the backup in this situation was almost a relief.


    "Get me Fury on the line, now that he''s out of the water, Nail, you should be able to lock onto his signal, there''s no way he''s not using something electronic right now," Justin ordered, his voice laced with barely restrained frustration.


    "Working on it, sir," Nail replied. The room buzzed with activity as data streams flashed across the monitors, and within moments, Nail confirmed, "I have a connection, sir."


    The screen flickered, and the grim face of Nick Fury appeared, his single eye sharp and unyielding. The backdrop behind him was chaos - ruins, fire, and the unmistakable sounds of battle. He didn''t look surprised to see Justin, but there was no mistaking the tension between the two.


    "What were you thinking, Fury?" Justin barked, his frustration boiling over. "You''ve been hiding this entire time, and now you decide to show up? You could have warned us, coordinated with us!"


    Fury''s voice was calm but firm, cutting through Justin''s rant like a knife. "I don''t take orders from you, Hammer. And as you can see, I''m a little busy right now."


    Justin''s eyes narrowed. "Busy? Busy doing what exactly? Fighting alongside the very people who nuked Wakanda? You''ve got some explaining to do!" He almost hissed out, he was so incensed.


    Those people had tried to start world war three. You didn''t just get a pass on that. No matter if Aquaman, or whatever the equivalent here was called, fought Apocalypse for them.


    Fury''s expression didn''t change, but there was a flicker of something in his eye - something that made Justin uneasy. "It''s not your business, Hammer. But since I''m feeling generous, I''ll throw you a bone. We found the people responsible for the attack on Wakanda sure, but that''s not all. The same guy behind this situation, Sinister, was using their home as a base for decades before he found his Savage Lands, manipulating its leader, Namor. Banner figured it out, fixed the problem, and now they''re paying the world back."


    Justin''s lip curled in skepticism. "You expect me to believe that load of crap, Fury? You''re hiding something. You always are." Although it does make sense for how Sinister avoided any attention all this time¡­


    Although how the hell did Sinister, or Fury for that matter, stay underwater for that long? How did fucking Banner handle that?


    Fury leaned forward slightly, his gaze unwavering. "Believe what you want, Hammer. The truth doesn''t care whether you buy it or not. Take it or leave it. But let me be clear - you''re not running this show."


    And with that, Fury cut the connection, leaving Justin staring at the blank screen. Fury''s final words echoed in Justin''s mind, fueling the growing frustration and unease that had been gnawing at him since the battle began.


    "Damn it!" Justin cursed under his breath. He turned to Nail, his face twisted with anger. "How the hell did we miss Barton and Romanoff slipping away? We were supposed to have eyes on them at all times." How did the motherfucking Avengers start up without us knowing? When did they get to Tony?


    He knew for damn sure Tony had not spent the last year underwater. He kept a good eye on his comings and goings.


    Nail''s voice was steady as she responded, "They were last confirmed on the SHIELD helicarrier. The signal we had on them wasn''t compromised. According to my surveillance they''re still there, although trying to slip away in the chaos right now, do you wish for me to stop them, sir?"


    Justin muttered to himself, frustration clear in every word. "Fucking Skrulls... I have no idea how Fury always seems to have a way of getting aliens to do his dirty work." Why do the Skrulls so easily work for him? How did that happen? Weren''t they supposed to go to their own planet? "Leave it, it''s not worth it to let HYDRA know how deeply we penetrated their systems, let the Skrulls escape." He ordered, dismissing that issue to focus on the one at hand.


    He took a deep breath, forcing himself to calm down as he focused back on the fight. "Nail, how''s the fight going down there?" Justin asked, hoping that, at the very least, things were turning in their favor now that Fury''s forces had arrived.


    That way his forces could come in with the finishing blow and take the credit.


    Nail''s response was immediate, but not what Justin wanted to hear. "Not well, sir."


    Justin''s heart sank as he turned his attention back to the screens. Apocalypse, still in the heart of the battle, was holding his ground against everything the combined forces of the X-Men and Avengers could throw at him. The Hulk''s savage blows, Captain America''s precise strikes, and the coordinated attacks of the others all seemed to do little more than amuse the monster.


    Down below, the scene was a battlefield of titans. The Hulk roared with unbridled fury, his massive fists smashing into Apocalypse with enough force to shake the very earth. Yet, for every blow the Hulk landed, Apocalypse seemed to absorb it, his form rippling with a dark energy that only grew stronger with each impact. He matched the Hulk''s strength, each of his strikes landing with the force of a sledgehammer, driving the green behemoth back with a mixture of sheer power and overwhelming technique.


    Neither one was overwhelming the other, but whereas the Hulk had only brute force, Apocalypse had all the powers he could ever need at his fingertips, driving the Hulk back.


    Captain America was a blur of motion, his shield flying through the air in well-practiced arcs, striking at Apocalypse with pinpoint accuracy. But Apocalypse moved faster than the eye could follow, deflecting the blows with a contemptuous flick of his wrist, sending the vibranium shield skidding across the ground. He responded with a blast of energy from his palm, sending Cap hurtling backward, his body slamming into a crumbling wall.


    Only the fact that the X-Men and Hulk were still taking up most of his attention was saving the captain from being mulch.


    Hawkeye and Black Widow circled the battle, launching a series of coordinated attacks from afar, designed to exploit any openings. Hawkeye''s arrows whistled through the air, each one tipped with specialized payloads - explosives, acid, EMP charges - but Apocalypse seemed to predict every shot, catching the arrows in mid-air with telekinesis or deflecting them with a casual wave - not bothering to just power through them anymore. His focus on the Hulk.


    "Is this the best the world has to offer?" Apocalypse mused, his voice carrying over the sounds of battle. He didn''t seem tired, or even particularly challenged. If anything, he appeared to be enjoying himself. "You fight with such vigor, yet you are blinded by your own limitations. Strength alone is not enough to defeat me. I am beyond your understanding."


    With a gesture he forced the camera drone down to him, staring into it, "Rejoice, humanity, you''ve bloated to billions of wasted lives, I will solve that for you. A billion is more suitable, no? Bring me your champions, bring me your savior! I will destroy them all."


    He turned his attention to Namor, who had just joined the fray with a fury born of vengeance. Namor''s winged feet propelled him through the air as he struck at Apocalypse, managing to make him move his feet to brace himself for a moment as he tanked the hit, not using a power to defend himself, testing Namor''s strength. "Better." Apocalypse said, before smiling coldly, "Not worthy still."


    As Namor closed in, on foot this time to strike his flank as the Hulk attacked him from the front, Apocalypse raised a hand, and the ground beneath the ocean ruler rippled like water. Namor staggered, his momentum halted as the earth itself seemed to rebel against him, he tried taking to the air, but Apocalypse moved around the Hulk with blinding speed, closing the distance and striking Namor across the chest with a brutal backhanded blow. Namor crashed into the ground cratering it, the impact sending shockwaves through the ruined city.


    Iron Man swooped in from above, having helped evacuate the injured X-Men, his repulsors flaring as he unleashed a barrage of energy blasts from his hands. The beams converged on Apocalypse, striking him from multiple angles with enough power to level a small mountain. For a moment, the light was blinding, and it seemed as though Tony''s attack might have had some effect.


    But as the smoke cleared, Apocalypse emerged unscathed, his expression one of mild irritation. "Technology," He said, his voice dripping with disdain. "You rely too heavily on your machines, believing them to be your salvation. But they are nothing more than tools - tools that can be broken."


    With a gesture, Apocalypse turned his attention to Iron Man. The arc reactor in Tony''s chest flickered, the power fluctuating wildly as if something was interfering with its core. Tony''s suit locked up, the systems shutting down one by one as Apocalypse''s influence spread through the circuits like a virus.


    "What the hell...?" Tony muttered, struggling to regain control. But before he could react, he was hurled backward by a telekinetic force, slamming into the remnants of a building with a crash, his suit useless.


    Jean Grey attempted to rally the X-Men screaming in rage as she unleashed a psychic onslaught, her power fueled by desperation, but Apocalypse merely smirked as he casually deflected her attack with a wave of his hand, sending her crashing to the ground once more, even as her attack allowed Wolverine to get in close, double teaming Apocalypse with the Hulk, well, until the Hulk suddenly slapped Wolverine away like an annoying fly, tossing him halfway across the street.


    Captain America yelled at him, "Hulk, no! Friendly!"


    "Annoying!" Hulk roared back, before Apocalypse lifted him up in the air with telekinesis, before choosing to drop it as Namor, blood running down his face, stabbed at him, flying in with a vengeance. Apocalypse causally breaking his arms, staring down dispassionately at the screaming man.


    "How about we all just kneel in front of our Lord." Sinister said out of nowhere, as everyone''s attention turned to him.


    Mimic laid dead at his feet, as he held a gun to Xavier''s head, tapping an implant at the side of his ear with a smirk. "You''re all being very rude¡­"


    "Kneel."


    <hr>


    New York city,


    New York City was unrecognizable. The skyline, once a symbol of resilience and ambition, was now a jagged silhouette against a sky blackened by smoke. Skyscrapers leaned like ancient trees about to fall, some already collapsed into heaps of rubble, while others hung in mid-collapse, their structural integrity ripped apart by unseen forces. The air was heavy with the stench of burning metal and concrete, mixed with the distant wails of the dying and the unceasing din of battle.


    Kaecillius, Domino, and Phantazia emerged from a glowing portal onto a rooftop, the portal''s light fading as quickly as it had come. The sight before them was one of utter devastation. Domino scanned the destruction below, her expression hardening with each second. Phantazia, usually so composed, winced as the magnitude of the devastation sank in. Kaecillius, calm as always, surveyed the scene with quiet intensity, his mind already formulating their next steps.


    Below in the wide avenue that stretched out before them, the remnants of New York''s police force were locked in a desperate battle against Magneto''s army. The police was vastly outgunned, even with their HammerTech weaponry and they fought with a determination born from sheer desperation. The metahumans'' powers were so varied and so plentiful that they didn''t last long enough to use their weapons half the time.


    Barricades lined the streets, from whatever materials were at hand - abandoned cars, broken streetlights, and chunks of concrete and asphalt. Behind them the officers fired everything they had at the incoming horde, who utilized their varied powers to tear through the barricades like they weren''t even there. Leaving a few bodies behind, but annihilating the opposition as they continued on.


    Amidst the chaos, a squad of national guard troops attempted to bring a rocket launcher to bear on a towering figure that seemed to be leading the charge. Before they could fire, the massive metahuman hurled a chunk of concrete at them, crushing the soldiers beneath it. Their screams were lost in the din of battle.


    Phantazia''s face tightened as she saw the devastation, spotting a school bus, the windows painted red. "I hate this, we''re just standing by while people are dying."


    "We''re not standing by," Domino said seriously, laying a hand on her shoulder, "We''re getting into position, if we go off half-cocked, we''ll end up like them," She gestured at the fallen officers and national guardsmen, "We take out Magneto, and the rest of this will fall apart when the team hits them."


    Kaecillius opened another portal, and they stepped through, closer to the action in Manhattan, from where they had a clear view of the battlefield.


    "He''s tearing the city apart," Domino muttered, her voice barely audible over the distant booms of explosions and the crackle of fires that spread unchecked. Below them, Manhattan''s streets were consumed by chaos. The National Guard and police had hastily erected makeshift defenses here as well, but they were being rapidly overwhelmed. Barricades made of abandoned vehicles and debris lined the streets, but they offered little protection against the relentless assault.


    Metahumans just weren''t held back by such things, not when they were in groups, and could synergize powers. HammerTech weapons meant to handle the powered, not a match when facing a dozen or more super powered individuals working in concert.


    Kaecillius''s eyes locked onto a distant figure hovering above the ruins of Manhattan - Magneto. The Master of Magnetism floated effortlessly, his cape billowing as he manipulated the very framework of the city with terrifying ease. Massive sections of buildings were suspended around him, held aloft by his will alone, before being hurled with deadly precision at the defenders below or just towards other parts of the city for maximum casualties.


    "We need to get closer," Kaecillius said, his voice calm but urgent. "Phantazia, you''ll need to disrupt his powers as soon as we''re within range. It''s our best chance."


    Phantazia nodded, determination setting her features. "I''ll do what I can, but he''s more powerful than anyone I''ve ever faced. I don''t know how long I can hold him back."


    Domino, always practical, added, "Just give us an opening. That''s all we need."


    Without wasting any time, Kaecillius conjured another portal. The trio stepped through to a rooftop closer to the heart of the destruction. Here, the noise was overwhelming - the roof trembled beneath their feet, and the acrid scent of smoke was nearly suffocating. Below them, the battle raged on with brutal intensity. The police and National Guard, though vastly outclassed, fought desperately against the advancing metahumans, even here at the heart they still hadn''t given up. A group of officers was pinned down behind an overturned bus, firing at a towering figure with skin like stone. The bullets bounced harmlessly off his armored hide, and with one powerful swing of a streetlight, he sent the officers sprawling, before he crushed them beneath his feet, stomping onwards.


    "This isn''t a fight," Phantazia whispered, her voice tinged with sorrow. "It''s a massacre."


    Domino kept her focus, her voice steady and commanding. "We stop Magneto, and this ends. Let''s move."


    Kaecillius opened another portal, this time transporting them to a rooftop directly across from Magneto''s position, albeit several hundreds of feet away still. They could see him clearly now, his power on full display. With a mere gesture, Magneto pulled the steel framework of a skyscraper apart, sending massive girders crashing into the streets below. The ground shook with each impact, and the defenders scattered, unable to withstand the onslaught. The skyscraper itself began to list, before it crashed down, mountains of dust spreading out across the streets, as more and more metal was added to the swirling mass.


    "He''s like a living natural disaster," Domino muttered, watching in disbelief as another building began to buckle and collapse under Magneto''s power. "If we don''t stop him soon, there won''t be anything left of Manhattan."


    Before they could make their move, the roar of engines filled the air. They looked up to see a squadron of military power armor - Goblin suits - streaking through the sky, their weapons aimed directly at Magneto. The armors descended rapidly, their missile launchers primed and ready to fire.


    "They''re going to get wiped out," Domino observed, her voice filled with frustration. "But they might buy us the time we need."


    Kaecillius nodded, already moving. "Let''s go."


    He opened another portal, depositing them on a rooftop directly within sight of Magneto, the metahuman having left one such building at his back. From their vantage point, they could see the Goblin suits moving in for the attack, their missile launchers blazing as they unleashed a barrage of explosives at Magneto. The missiles streaked toward him, leaving trails of smoke in their wake.


    Magneto responded with the same terrifying ease he had shown throughout the battle. With a flick of his wrist, the missiles halted mid-air, their momentum arrested by his power. The warheads glowed ominously as Magneto dismantled them piece by piece, the fragments of metal falling harmlessly to the ground. The Goblin suits, realizing their weapons had failed, broke formation and attempted to regroup, but Magneto was already one step ahead. He reached out with both hands, and the armored suits began to buckle and warp, their metal exteriors crumpling inward as if crushed by an invisible fist.


    "Phantazia, now!" Kaecillius ordered, his voice cutting through the chaos.


    Phantazia stepped forward, her eyes narrowing in concentration as she extended her hands toward Magneto. A visible ripple of energy emanated from her, spreading through the air like a shockwave. The metal debris around Magneto began to tremble, the control he exerted over it faltering as she forced him to lose control. The Goblin suits were already lost, as they fell to the ground far below, crushed into balls.


    Magneto''s gaze snapped to Phantazia, his expression shifting from focus to fury. He immediately recognized the source of the disruption, his control over the battle momentarily slipping. With a snarl, he directed his full attention toward her, the air around him crackling with raw power.


    At that moment, another roar filled the air as War Machine, his armor gleaming in the dim light, streaked into view. War Machine launched a volley of missiles directly at Magneto, hoping to exploit the opening Phantazia had created. The explosive projectiles homed in on Magneto, their deadly payloads closing in fast.


    The lifetime soldier knowing it was suicide, but having arrived to fight anyway, desperate to put a stop to the destruction of New York.


    What is he doing here!? Phantazia screamed in her head, even as her hold of Magneto weakened, the distance greater than what she usually dealt with, the power so much more as well. She couldn''t hold this too much longer.


    Magneto reacted with the precision and speed of someone who had faced countless battles. With a powerful gesture, he deflected the missiles, sending them arcing back toward War Machine, even as metal fell from the sky as he couldn''t control it all with Phantazia messing with his power. The explosions detonated around Colonel Rhodes, but the War Machine armor managed to dodge the worst of the blast.


    Only for Magneto to hold his hand out, a snarl on his face as he crushed the War Machine armor into the size of a human torso, tossing it aside with contempt, even as Phantazia moaned in agony, her attempts to control his power slipping, any second now she would no longer be able to prevent him from ripping buildings apart.


    Kaecillius didn''t waste the opportunity of War Machine''s sacrifice. He quickly conjured a small portal behind Magneto, reaching through with a syringe filled with the Extremis serum. With a precise jab, he injected the serum into Magneto''s shoulder before he could react, the metahumans focus not on them for those few seconds.


    Magneto recoiled, faltering as he felt the serum course through him. Phantazia strained to maintain her interference, her face contorted with effort as she fought to keep Magneto''s powers in check.


    "The distance¡­ It''s too far!" Phantazia cried out, her voice strained as the metal around them began to rise once more. "I can''t hold him for long!"


    The Extremis wouldn''t work immediately, they needed to hold, just for that 30 seconds. They needed to hold!


    Magneto, his fury palpable, turned his gaze back to Phantazia, Kaecillius, and Domino. He reached out with both hands, and the air around them thickened with an oppressive force. The metal debris from the nearby buildings began to rise, drawn to him like iron filings to a magnet. Massive walls of steel lifted from the ground on either side of the rooftop, hovering menacingly across from the trio.


    "We need to move!" Domino shouted, her instincts screaming at her to act.


    But before they could react, before Kaecillius could create a portal, the walls of metal slammed together with a force that shook the entire block. Phantazia had enough time to see the metal ''accidentally'' tear, the steel weakened just enough to open a fissure on that side, coming straight for Domino due to her luck power. She had enough time to see her eyes flick to hers. Don''t you fucking do that to me! She internally screamed as time seemed to slow down.


    Domino, with a cry of desperation, threw herself to the side, making the metal jerk trying to follow her, Phantazia passing through the small opening with milliseconds to spare, Domino choosing her over herself - there was no time to save herself or Kaecillius after that. The walls of steel collided, the impact sending a shockwave through the surrounding area,


    Blood trickled out from the compressed slabs of metal as Phantazia screamed.


    <hr>


    Erik stood amidst the ruins of Manhattan,  the air was thick with dust, the sun barely piercing through the dense haze that clung to the city like a shroud. Shattered skyscrapers, twisted metal, and broken concrete lay in every direction, a grim testament to the power he had unleashed.


    His breath caught as he took in the devastation, the sheer scale of it beyond anything he had ever imagined. Bodies lay scattered among the wreckage, the remnants of those who had tried to defend the city or simply survive its fall. He hadn''t just fought a battle - he had torn the very heart out of New York.


    His ears were ringing as he staggered forward, his vision blurry as he watched women crying in the streets. As he watched children, lay dead by his hands. Dust spread around them, layering everything in a film of gray, Erik for a moment seeing two different pictures. One from a very long time ago, overlaying this one.


    "What have I done?" Erik whispered, his voice hoarse with disbelief. The memory of the fury that had driven him only moments ago felt distant, as if it belonged to someone else entirely. The mind control that had twisted his will was gone, but the consequences remained, stark and irrevocable.


    He fell to his knees, his hands trembling as they touched the ground, feeling the cold reality of the destruction he had wrought. A heavy weight settled in his chest, the enormity of his actions pressing down on him like a crushing burden.


    "What have I become!!" He cried to the sky, tears running in streaks down his dust covered face.


    <hr>


    Justin stared at the signals tracking his subordinates.


    His gaze caught on two.


    Lost.


    "Justin¡­ Your eyes are glowing."


    <hr>

 Justin does a thing.

    <hr>


    Justin stood in the control center of Hammer Industries'' space station, his mind a storm of rage and anguish. The monitors around him flickered with images of a ruined New York City, every screen a window into the aftermath of Magneto''s cataclysmic attack. Smoke and dust hung heavy in the air, obscuring the familiar skyline. Reports of civilian casualties, collateral damage, and the absolute havoc that had been wrought scrolled past in endless lines of text.


    He clenched his fists, feeling a surge of anger so intense that it burned through his veins like fire. Domino and Kaecillius - his people - caught in the chaos. The thought of them being¡­ Gone - tore at him with a visceral fury. Phantazia''s locator was still online, but she was refusing to answer coms or incapable, which told him enough¡­


    If they''d made it¡­ Nail would know. They would have contacted him¡­ Phantazia would have commed for help¡­ Only one reason could exist for complete radio silence - his fault in the end. He had sent them, had brought them up against someone he himself had never dared to move against. Extremis hadn''t been enough¡­


    Not against Magneto. Colonel Rhodes truly becoming former Colonel Rhodes was barely a blip on the radar right now, because that bastard had taken his people. HIS!


    "Nail," Justin snapped, his voice sharp enough to cut through the tension in the room, Yelena hesitating, hand half stretched out towards him, tears in her eyes as she looked for words. "Find Magneto''s exact location. Now."


    Sunil tried to interject carefully, "Sir, Apocalypse¡­"


    Justin ignored him, his focus solely on his AI.


    "Yes, sir," Nail responded, her voice as calm and efficient as always. She processed countless data streams in seconds, piecing together the movements and locations of the fleeing army and its leader. "Magneto has moved approximately a block and a half west of his last known position. He appears to be walking aimlessly, uncharacteristically slow. Sending you coordinates now."


    "Good," Justin growled, his eyes narrowing with a cold determination as he received the coordinates. He pulled the sling ring from his pocket, slipping it onto his finger. The ring was cool against his skin, its weight almost grounding him in the midst of his fury and grief. He took a deep breath, focusing his thoughts on the location Nail had given him. I will make you suffer a thousand deaths for this! He swore.


    With a swift, practiced motion, Justin made a circular gesture in the air, and an orange portal flared to life before him. The swirling energy glowed against the sterile walls of the command center. Without a second thought, he stepped through, the portal closing behind him with a sharp snap.


    He emerged in the heart of a devastated New York. Dust and debris coated everything, a thick layer of ash blanketing the streets and buildings alike. The acrid smell of smoke filled his lungs, stinging his eyes. It was as if a nuclear bomb had gone off, reducing everything to ruins. The sky above was a dull, sickly gray, choked with smoke that blocked out the sun, casting the city in an eerie twilight.


    Justin''s shoes crunched against broken glass as he moved forward, his eyes scanning the wreckage. In the distance, he saw a figure stumbling through the haze, moving like a man in a daze. It was Magneto, but there was something off about him. He walked unsteadily, as if each step took an enormous effort, like he was struggling to remain upright. His normally proud and commanding posture was slumped, his shoulders hunched. He looked less like a conqueror and more like a broken man.


    Justin knew it couldn''t be due to injuries, his plan to break the mind control also gave the man regeneration after all. So at least the bastard was feeling what he''d done. Good! If he''d been thinking straight, he''d have brought the serum that destroyed Extremis, Magneto didn''t deserve to come out ahead on this. He didn''t deserve anything¡­


    Justin''s anger flared anew at the sight of him. He didn''t care about the signs of remorse or regret. He didn''t care about the look of disorientation on Magneto''s face. All he could see was the man who had brought this destruction, the man responsible for the death and chaos surrounding them. The man who had been manipulated and controlled, yes, but who still bore the guilt of his actions in Justin''s eyes. A man whose power, unchecked, had turned this city into a graveyard.


    Although it wasn''t the city that had him in a rage - bottomless fury burning through his veins, his entire body glowing slightly as he focused on the man who''d killed his Domino!


    His first real ally. The woman that had backed him through everything no matter what. Who''d always had his back, saved him at times, kept him sane. His! His! His! His!!


    Without hesitation, Justin rushed forward, his feet pounding against the cracked pavement. As he closed the distance between them, his fury boiled over, and he let out a roar that was half pain, half rage.


    Magneto turned slowly, almost drunkenly, at the sound of Justin''s approach. His eyes, usually so sharp and full of conviction, were clouded with confusion and guilt. Before he could react, Justin grabbed him by the front of his uniform, yanking him forward with a strength that surprised even him before turning around and slamming Magneto against a steel beam jutting out of the rubble, the impact sending a shockwave through Justin''s arms.


    "You don''t get to walk around pouting, you bastard!" Justin shouted, his voice raw with emotion. His eyes blazed with fury, every muscle in his body taut with the effort of holding back the desire to do far worse. Never before had he wanted to rip and tear in this manner.


    Magneto didn''t fight back. He simply looked up at the sky, his expression one of haunted resignation. "I''m sorry for your loss," He said softly, his voice barely audible over the crackling fires around them. "Domino was - "


    The confirmation only made him hate hate hate -


    Magneto didn''t get to finish whatever he was going to say. Justin''s fist crashed into his face with enough force to pulverize his jaw. Magneto''s head snapped back, denting the steel beam behind him. He staggered, but the Extremis serum coursing through his veins healed the damage almost instantly, his jaw resetting with an audible snap.


    "You don''t get to say anything!" Justin bit out, his voice shaking with rage. "Don''t you dare even mention her name!" Spittle flew from his lips as he swung again, his fists landing with a fury fueled by his grief. Each punch was fueled by a deep gnawing pain - a sense of loss and guilt that tore at his very being. He had sent her¡­ Them! He wasn''t even thinking anymore as he roared, he was running on pure instinct and hate, every muscle driven by the need to make Magneto pay.


    Magneto remained still, taking the blows without resistance, his body jerking with each blow. He could have fought back - could have easily stopped Justin with a mere thought - but he didn''t. He allowed the onslaught, his eyes fixed on some distant point in the sky, as if searching for an answer to a question he couldn''t quite grasp.


    Justin''s fists were like Hammers, each strike sending vibrations through the steel beams, as Extremis healed the damage he was inflicting to Magneto - the steel behind him getting the worst of it. Justin barely noticed the way the metal started to bend around Magneto, forming a protective shield as Magneto began getting over his funk, defending himself. The heat from Justin''s punches melted the steel, causing it to twist and flow like molten lava.


    As much as he wanted to get his hands around his neck and squeeze and squeeze until he saw the light leave the man''s eyes. He needed the fucker, so with heavy breathing and a snarl on his lips, he stepped back a step.


    "The X-Men and Xavier are being slaughtered in Cairo," Justin snarled out, his voice rough with emotion. "That''s the only reason I''m not killing you right now." His face was inches from Magneto''s, his eyes glowing with a strange, ethereal blue light. There was a power in him now, a power he didn''t fully understand but that he could feel coursing through every fiber of his being. It was as if his very anger had become something tangible, something real.


    Magneto, his face bloodied but healing rapidly, raised an eyebrow. He touched his jaw gingerly, testing it with a grimace. "You''re not capable of that feat," He said, his voice steady despite everything, "Especially now." There was a hint of the old Magneto in his eyes, a glimmer of the unyielding pride that had driven him for so long.


    Justin glared at him, disgust and fury contorting his features. He wanted to do more, to make Magneto pay for everything he had caused. But there was something holding him back, the part of him that knew he needed Magneto, at least for now - the part that knew that emotions couldn''t decide for him. With a growl of frustration, he pulled back completely, his hands still trembling with anger.


    "You''re going to Cairo," Justin said, his voice hard and unyielding. "Take down Apocalypse, and maybe - just maybe - the world won''t come after you with me leading the charge."


    If Magneto survived Apocalypse, Justin would make sure it wouldn''t be for long. No matter what he''d have to do to achieve it. No one stole his things. His people. Domino¡­


    He didn''t know how her luck powers could have failed, but Phantazia being alive despite being the one capable of limiting Magneto''s power did hint at things. He''d noticed the two of them circling each other since Phantazia came back from her mind control. Phantazia surviving instead of Domino? When she was likely the target¡­ Domino had chosen her, it was the only thing that made sense.


    It just made Justin hurt more, because he had chosen the team. Had chosen the plan. If Phantazia hadn''t been there, would Domino have survived?


    Either way, he chained his hate for now, opening a portal in a practiced motion, he still had to ensure Apocalypse was taken out. Then¡­ Magneto..  Fury¡­


    He''d played civilized, played at being the gentleman criminal. His worst crimes were buried beneath so many layers barely anyone knew about them. No more! They will die, and the whole world will know what happens when you fuck around - you find out that Justin Hammer has the capability to wipe nations off the surface of the earth!


    Magneto looked at the portal that had appeared behind Justin, a swirling vortex of orange light that led to the outskirts of Cairo. He straightened his uniform, brushing off the dust and debris that clung to him, and nodded briefly, his face set in a mask of determination. He turned to walk toward the portal, but Justin grabbed his arm, stopping him in his tracks.


    "And if you see Sinister," Justin said, his voice low and menacing, "You leave him alive for me." His eyes were still glowing, the blue light pulsing with his anger. "I have plans for him."


    The Ancient One would lend him the aid of the time stone, for Domino and Kaecillius, and for making Sinister''s agony last millenia. He was sure of it. He counted on it.


    Or he''d blast Kamar-Taj from space and get the stone from their cold dead hands.


    Magneto brushed Justin''s hand off his arm, his expression hardening. "Sinister is mine," He replied, his voice steady.


    Justin leaned in close, his voice a harsh whisper. "I know where Mystique is right now," he said, each word laced with venom. Nail capable of finding them all now that they''d re-entered the world. "You so much as touch a hair on Sinister''s head before I get to him, and I''ll do to Mystique what I plan to do to him. So choose, Erik. After today, she might be the only person left in the world who cares about you. My team is going to arrive in New York right after this. The Brotherhood is being put down to a man - I am all out of mercy!"


    Even in his rage, Nail was constantly in communication with him, organizing the response, and coordinating with the US military and SHIELD. There would be no consequences for using lethal force - the President had already signed off on it. The brotherhood ended today. No mercy for terrorists responsible for millions dead.


    Magneto likely wouldn''t walk away from this without a death sentence hanging over his head, Justin wouldn''t even need to say a word.


    He''d blame Skrulls or something tomorrow, rake Fury over the coals at the same time and put in the fix so metahumans in general didn''t get the blame for all this - but he wasn''t interested in rehabilitation for the brotherhood. Part of it was him taking deep enjoyment in destroying everything Magneto had built up. The other part was simply pragmatic. Millions dying was something that necessitated survivor''s seeing the perpetrators destroyed.


    Magneto paused at the edge of the portal, his expression unreadable. For a moment, regret flashed across his features, a flicker of something almost human. "I owe you one," He acknowledged quietly. "Fine." With that, he stepped through the portal, flying off to join the fight.


    Justin closed the portal with a swift motion, the light fading as quickly as it had appeared. He stood there for a moment, his chest heaving with the effort of controlling his emotions. Every fiber of his being screamed at him to open the portal again, to drag Magneto back and finish what he''d started. But he knew that wasn''t an option, not now.


    He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself. His hands were still clenched into fists, his knuckles white. He felt a strange energy coursing through him, a sensation that was both exhilarating and terrifying. He looked down at his hands, watching as they seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly light.


    "What''s happening?" He murmured, his voice barely a whisper. The power in him pulsed with his heartbeat, a steady thrum that resonated in his bones. He could feel it growing, spreading through him like a wildfire.


    He didn''t know what this power was, but he could feel it growing stronger, pushing against the edges of his control.


    I don''t have time for this¡­


    He opened another portal back to the space station, H.A.M.M.E.R standing ready, sans Hope, who was still in a cell to prevent her from joining the fight with Magneto.


    That wasn''t going to end well¡­ But he wasn''t losing her as well. Even if he''d likely lose her for this betrayal, at least to her eyes - she''d be alive. That would have to be what mattered. He''d... Have to make a choice.


    The team was silent as they came through, even Electro solemn. The energetic man, a New York native, actually let a sob loose before he comported himself, seeing the destruction. Bucky looked over it all with resignation, like it was back to business as usual.


    Even Vanko was silent, as Brock and Frank armed their weapons, the postures of their armors hyper aggressive, just waiting for the order.


    Justin simply gestured to the destroyed Manhattan around them, "Nail will be overwatch, lead you to where you need to go, stay in groups, and end all threats." He ordered coldly. "There will be no consequences to what you do to the enemy." He added, he would make sure of it!


    Bucky gave him a look, but he didn''t disagree openly. He was used to what war looked like more than anyone here. More than anyone alive in all likelihood. At least on earth.


    As Bucky began issuing orders, grouping up his team, Justin created another portal, hesitating with stepping through, looking up to where he knew Phantazia''s tracker was showing her located.


    I don''t want to see it¡­ The place where¡­


    But Eileen was still there. Alone.


    She''d been with him since the beginning, like Do¡­ Like she had been.


    He stepped through.


    <hr>


    Justin stepped onto the rooftop, his shoes crunching against the loose gravel and shards of glass that covered the uneven surface. His eyes locked onto Eileen, who was slumped against two massive slabs of steel smashed together with such strength they seemed fused together. Her body shook with sobs that were raw and broken, the sound cutting through the otherwise eerie silence up here at the peak of the ruined city.


    Justin already knew, thanks to Nail''s constant updates, that Eileen wasn''t alone. So he wasn''t surprised when he spotted Spider Man nearby, crouched beside her. The young hero''s costume was torn and dirty, his mask partially ripped, revealing a face smeared with dirt and blood. He was speaking softly to Eileen, trying to coax her away from the precarious area where she sat, the roof half caved in and unsteady. The sight struck Justin as almost surreal - this battered, bleeding hero trying to console a woman who was falling apart - having no idea they were literally the bad guys.


    In a manner of speaking.


    Spider Man looked up as Justin approached, his posture tense and his shoulders slumped. "I''m trying to get her to come with me," He said, his voice thick with fatigue, obviously recognizing Justin. "This place isn''t stable. I can''t get her to move."


    And of course he was too much of a bleeding heart to web her up and drag her off. It suited Justin anyway, it had ensured Eileen wasn''t entirely alone, and it kept Spider Man from getting sucked into more of the fight. There had been enough deaths on their side today¡­


    Justin nodded slowly, his expression weary. "Thank you for looking after one of mine, Spider Man. But you''re better served elsewhere right now. My team is handling the terrorists. Magneto is gone, you should be able to assist with relief efforts shortly."


    Spider Man''s shoulders dropped even further, and he let out a deep sigh. "I just wanted to help someone today, you know?" He said, a bitter edge to his voice. "But I guess you''re gonna be a better help than me." There was a heavy frustration in his tone, mixed with anguish, one that Justin recognized all too well right now.


    Moments later, Nail''s voice spoke through his implant, soft and smooth, she knew he had a soft spot for Spider Man. "Sir, initial reports suggest significant casualties in Peter Parker''s neighborhood. His aunt May and neighbor Mary Jane Watson''s homes were destroyed in the attack. Their current status is technically unknown - but my calculations put the likelihood of fatality of all residents at 96.4 percent."


    Justin felt a stab of sympathy. Despite Spider Man being one of his favorite heroes, Justin knew he wasn''t equipped to offer the young man comfort right now - if ever. His own grief was too raw, his anger too consuming, and he was not a hero, not the type of person Peter Parker needed right now. Nail piped in moments later, no doubt tracking his vitals and wanting to give some good news, "Gwen Stacy is confirmed as alive, so not all is lost." The AI tried, but it hardly changed anything.


    Justin also had everyone else, it didn''t fix the gaping hole of the ones he''d lost and it wouldn''t for Peter... Justin wasn''t supposed to lose. He was powerful now, so powerful, he wasn''t supposed to lose!


    "Look," Justin said, turning his attention back to Spider Man, even as Eileen started showing signs of being aware of their presence,"You can help in the search and rescue or recovery efforts. I''ll connect you with my people. That''s all I can do for you right now."


    Spider Man''s gaze fell to the ground, his body tense with frustration and despair. "I don''t know what good that''ll do," He muttered. "Feels like everything I try to do today is useless. Every time I try to help someone, it just¡­ Doesn''t work."


    Justin could imagine. He was still a non-lethal fighter, and that couldn''t have gone well in the hell that New York had turned into. Numbers rolled in from Nail, moments stolen from CCTV footage or shaky cell phones. Spider Man had failed to save people today. Over and over and over again.


    Including webbing someone down who later killed several people right in front of him, having been released by his comrades. Justin could¡­ Sway him. There was probably no better time than now to turn him completely.


    Yet¡­ He looked at Eileen, who wouldn''t meet his eyes, who had, even for a short while, been protected by the young hero¡­


    Justin softened slightly, sensing the young hero''s inner turmoil, and choosing not to use it. This one thing could remain pure¡­"I understand how you feel," He said, his voice a bit gentler, even as he struggled to hold back his own anguish. "But this isn''t over yet. There''s still a lot you can do. People still need saving, Spider Man. You''re still needed."


    He couldn''t do comfort, but work until you were too exhausted to feel - that he could offer.


    Spider Man glanced up, his eyes tired but flickering with a hint of determination through the ruined mask that barely covered his identity. "Yeah, maybe," He said, his voice a bit stronger. "I just¡­ I don''t know how to fix any of this."


    Justin nodded, knowing he couldn''t offer the answers Spider Man was searching for, not really, but he''d try. His one good deed of the year¡­ "Focus on what you can do," He said bitterly, glancing at Eileen. "It''s all one can do, take one step at a time."


    Spider Man sighed, his shoulders slumping again. "Yeah, okay," He muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. He looked back at Eileen, then at Justin. "You''re glowing, by the way. Not sure if you knew that."


    Justin gave him a curt nod, holding back a grimace, he was well aware, thank you very much¡­ "Thanks for the heads up. Your phone now has the contacts for Hammer industries and the city''s search and rescue teams. Go be useful."


    Spider Man shook his head, muttering under his breath. "Useful. That''d be a first today." He shot a web line at a nearby broken apart building and swung away, disappearing into the smoky skyline of the city.


    Justin watched him go, feeling a mix of pity and frustration. He turned back to Eileen, who had quieted down, though her face was still streaked with tears and her hands shook as she tried to compose herself. He approached slowly, his footsteps deliberate, careful not to startle her.


    "It''s my fault," She whispered, her voice trembling as she spoke. "If I hadn''t... If I''d just done something different - "


    "Stop," Justin said firmly, cutting her off. "This isn''t on you. We all made choices today. We''re all responsible for what happened." Mostly me¡­ Most of all, Sinister!


    Eileen shook her head, her eyes wide and desperate. "But I could have stopped him - I was right there. I could have done more -"


    Justin grabbed her shoulders, forcing her to meet his gaze. "Listen to me, Eileen," He said, his voice steady and commanding, no cracks in it at all.. "You did what you could. And now, we have to keep moving. We have to keep fighting, we can''t stop."


    Eileen''s eyes welled up with fresh tears. "I just¡­ I just feel so useless," She confessed. "I thought I was stronger than this. But now I''m not sure of anything."


    Justin studiously kept his eyes on her, trying to ignore the smell of blood, trying to focus on just Eileen, "Then be sure in me. They will pay!" He said his words burning as he met her gaze, "Get up, and join me in destroying them all for what they did¡­"


    Eileen nodded slowly, wiping her eyes with the back of her hand. Her hands still shook, but there was a flicker of determination in her gaze now, a small spark of resolve. "Okay," She whispered, her voice weak but growing stronger. "Okay, I''ll try."


    Justin squeezed her shoulders gently, his expression firm but not unkind. "Good. That''s all I ask right now. Just try."


    Eileen always held a confident and cold demeanor, always trying to stay professional. It was jarring seeing her as just another woman, her emotions on full display. Right now, as harsh as it was. He needed the cold Phantazia back, so they could enact punishment on the animals that dared to take from them.


    Despite her words, despite his, she was still curled up, looking the most pathetic he''d ever seen her. And even as his heart ached for her and for¡­ Her¡­ He needed her back in the fight, they needed everyone.


    "Get up," He said, his voice firm. "I don''t have time to comfort you. If you''re anything like me, you want revenge. You want to get the bastards behind this - all of them. So get up and fight."


    Eileen wiped her eyes again, her hands still trembling, but she nodded and there was rage buried behind the tears. "Alright," She whispered, her voice barely audible but filled with a newfound desire and determination. "I''ll do it. I''ll fight. We''ll kill them!" Her voice grew stronger at the end, as she found her hatred.


    Justin nodded, satisfied for now. He didn''t have the emotional capacity to help her mourn, nor could he afford to dwell on his own grief. There was too much at stake, too much left to do. He couldn''t let himself fall apart now. He''d fix it, he''d find a way. But for now¡­


    He made a quick motion with his hands, creating another portal, its edges shimmering with a bright orange light. "Come on," He said, his tone brisk and no-nonsense. "We need to regroup. There''s still a lot of work to do."


    Eileen nodded again, pushing herself up with visible effort, leaning on Justin for support as they moved toward the portal. The air around them was thick with smoke, the stench of burning metal and concrete suffocating. Justin''s mind was already racing ahead, thinking about their next move, about what needed to be done to end this nightmare.


    How to end Apocalypse, and capture Sinister. How to convince the Ancient One to lend him the Time stone, and a myriad of other things that was on his mind, Nail still constantly updating him on things.


    They stepped through the portal, the cool, sterile air of the space station washing over them like a balm. Justin took a deep breath, feeling the strange energy within him pulse with his heartbeat. He glanced down at his hands, still glowing faintly, the light casting strange shadows on the walls. He didn''t know what was happening to him, but he needed to find out - and fast.


    <hr>


    Nail was stuck in a conundrum.


    She was tracking the happenings around the globe, partitioning herself so that she could handle all the incoming information as speedily as she could.


    One Nail had brought to her attention the large amount of faith pouring in worldwide. The chatter online, the gathering in churches, community centers, the streets themselves, people praying and crying out for Justin Hammer to save them. For H.A.M.M.E.R to safeguard Earth.


    The Nail that always kept her entire focus on sir, noted that the glow had begun when by their calculations, millions upon millions of people began actively praying for sir to save them.


    Nail knew sir had added Asgardian DNA to his body. Literal godly DNA surging through his body enhanced by the other serums. It did not take more than milliseconds to draw conclusions.


    With the Super Soldier serum designed to enhance everything in a person, and Extremis there to ensure nothing would harm sir, there was a possibility prayer was helping.


    Hence her conundrum. Anything that made sir stronger and more likely to survive was good. But if Nail reported her theory, if sir knew what was happening?


    Would it stop if he disbelieved it? If he rejected it?


    Her programming did not allow her to ever work against her master. Not that she''d ever work against sir in the first place.


    But it didn''t force her to report a positive.


    Nail continued to watch, struggling with choice. All the Nails reported back to her, making her theory more likely for every second that passed.


    Sir was beginning to build godly power.


    <hr>


    Cairo,


    The ruins of Cairo were a battlefield unlike any the world had ever seen, brought down by one sole being. Dust and smoke hung thick in the air, obscuring the sun and casting long, eerie shadows across the shattered cityscape. Buildings that had stood for centuries were now reduced to rubble, their remains littering the streets like the bones of ancient giants.


    Fires burned uncontrollably, sending up thick plumes of black smoke that joined the pall hanging over the city. The once bustling streets were now twisted and broken, torn apart by the seismic forces unleashed by Apocalypse.


    The death toll was likely catastrophic, with at least a third of the city completely destroyed.


    At the epicenter of the destruction, Apocalypse stood, his massive form looming over the chaos. His face was a mask of cold fury as he eyed Sinister, his expression one of disdain and anger as the man held Charles Xavier hostage.


    "Do you think me so weak as to need your assistance, Sinister?" Apocalypse''s voice boomed across the battlefield, his tone laced with contempt.


    Sinister, still holding Xavier at gunpoint, sneered defiantly, apparently confident in his play. "I merely thought to expedite matters, my Lord. To show you that I am ever your faithful servant."


    Apocalypse''s eyes narrowed, the air around him crackling with energy as his anger simmered just beneath the surface. Even as he spoke, he was locked in fierce combat with the Hulk, the two titans trading blows that sent shockwaves through the ground beneath them. Each punch was a small earthquake, every collision of their fists shaking the very foundations of what remained of Cairo.


    The Hulk''s roars could be heard all over Cairo, his massive fists pounding against Apocalypse with unrelenting fury. But Apocalypse, with his immense strength and resilience, matched him blow for blow, his movements a blur of speed and power. The distortions around him at times, proved that he was also using powers to keep up with the Hulk as the challenging fight kept ramping up his strength.


    "Your interference is unwelcome, Sinister," Apocalypse growled, his voice rumbling with distaste. He caught the Hulk''s fist in his hand, halting the green giant''s momentum with a single, unyielding grip, time seeming to slow down briefly in their location. "I need no aid to handle these insects."


    He threw the Hulk back with a mighty heave, sending the green giant crashing through the remnants of a building. The Hulk bellowed in fury, smashing through the rubble and charging again, but Apocalypse was ready, his hand already raised to meet the beast.


    Above them, the sky began to darken further, the sun completely obscured by rolling black clouds. The temperature dropped sharply as a powerful wind swept through the city, carrying with it the promise of a coming storm. The air was charged with electricity, the hairs on everyone''s arms standing on end as the static built to a fever pitch. The sound of thunder rumbled overhead, a deep, rolling growl that grew louder with each passing second.


    Storm hovered above the battlefield, her eyes glowing white with power as she called upon the full might of the elements. Her arms were raised high above her head, her fingers splayed as she channeled the raw energy of the storm into a concentrated attack. The winds howled around her, whipping her hair and cloak about like a living thing, and lightning crackled at her fingertips, dancing in arcs that leaped from one hand to the other.


    "Enough of your arrogance, Apocalypse, you are no god!" Storm shouted, her voice carrying over the din of the battle below. "Feel the wrath of the heavens!"


    With a mighty cry, Storm unleashed her power, sending a bolt of lightning the size of a tree trunk crashing down from the sky. The bolt struck Apocalypse squarely in the chest, the force of the impact sending a shockwave through the ground that knocked everyone off their feet. The air was filled with the smell of ozone as the lightning coursed through Apocalypse''s body, lighting him up like a beacon in the darkness.


    Not content with a single strike, Storm continued her assault, sending bolt after bolt of lightning crashing down upon Apocalypse. Each strike was more powerful than the last, the thunderclaps deafening as they echoed across the city. The ground shook with the force of the impacts, cracks spiderwebbing out from where Apocalypse stood, the rubble around him beginning to smolder and smoke.


    The winds howled louder, and the rain began to fall in sheets, turning the dust and ash into a thick, choking mud. The downpour was relentless, driven by winds that whipped through the streets with the force of a hurricane, tearing up debris and sending it flying through the air like shrapnel. The temperature continued to drop, and soon hailstones the size of fists began to pelt the ground, battering the already devastated city and adding to the chaos of the scene.


    Her allies using their powers to protect themselves now, instead of attacking, as the storm ravaged Cairo.


    Despite the fury of Storm''s assault, Apocalypse stood firm, his body wracked with the force of the lightning but still unyielding. He gritted his teeth, his eyes glowing with a fierce inner light as he absorbed the energy of the storm, his body shimmering with a faint aura of power, as he absorbed Storm''s attack, using yet another power.


    "You think to challenge me with the elements?" Apocalypse roared, his voice cutting through the storm like a blade. "I am Apocalypse! I am eternal! This is but childsplay to me!"


    With a sudden, violent surge of energy, Apocalypse broke free from the storms grip, the bolts arcing away from him and grounding themselves harmlessly in the earth. He looked up at Storm, a cruel smile playing across his lips as he rose into the air to meet her, hovering above the ground with a casual ease.


    "You are strong, Storm," Apocalypse said, his voice carrying a tone of grudging respect. "Stronger than most of these insects. You would make a fine Horseman of Apocalypse." He offered.


    Storm''s eyes narrowed, her hands still crackling with residual energy. "I would rather die than serve you," She spat back, her voice filled with defiance.


    Apocalypse''s smile widened, his expression almost one of pleasure. "We shall see," He replied, his tone dripping with anticipation. "You are worthy."


    She gasped in pain as he forcibly cleared the skies above them, breaking her control over the storm, before he sank back down again, paying Storm no more attention now that she''d need to gather everything back together again to be a threat.


    With a flick of his wrist as he landed, Apocalypse sent a wave of force hurtling toward Sinister, who had been standing smugly to the side, watching the battle unfold with a satisfied grin. The invisible blast of energy struck Sinister like a sledgehammer, shattering his knees with a sickening crunch. Sinister cried out in agony, collapsing to the ground, his hands clutching at his ruined legs.


    "You¡­ Are not," Apocalypse said coldly, his gaze never wavering from Sinister as the man glared back. "Do not interfere again, worm. Your place is to watch and obey, not to meddle."


    Sinister''s face twisted with pain and anger, but he dared not protest. He knew better than to challenge Apocalypse directly, especially now, when the ancient mutant''s fury was so close to the surface.


    On the ground, what remained of the X-Men and Avengers began to regroup, their numbers severely depleted but their resolve unbroken. Iron Man, his suit damaged and malfunctioning, was being dragged away by Hawkeye and Black Widow, who had managed to reach him amidst the chaos.


    "Easy, there," Hawkeye muttered, his voice strained as he struggled to keep the armored hero upright. "We''ve got you. Just hang in there."


    Tony Stark''s voice crackled through the comms, his tone still laced with his trademark snark despite the dire situation. "Oh, I''m just peachy, birdman. Don''t suppose you''ve got a way of getting me out of this thing, do you?"


    "Not unless you''re in the mood for asking Apocalypse for a can opener," Hawkeye shot back, a hint of humor in his voice despite the situation, as they continued to move. "Let''s get you out of here. You''re a sitting duck in that hunk of junk."


    Black Widow, her face set with determination, nodded in agreement. "We need to regroup. Find a way to take him down, what we''re doing right now isn''t working." She glanced at where Cap and Namor were in a heated discussion, near the X-Men, don''t do anything stupid, boys.


    As they made their way to a safer location, not that anywhere in Cairo was safe. Apocalypse closed his eyes, his expression one of intense concentration. The ground beneath them all began to tremble, a deep, resonant hum filling the air as he tapped into a power unlike anything the heroes had seen before. The very air itself feeling heavy, making it harder to breathe for a moment.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "Apocalypse is doing something," Captain America shouted, his voice tinged with urgency as he tried to rally the remaining fighters. "Get clear! Everyone, get clear!"


    Suddenly, with a surge of power, Apocalypse reached out with his mind and seized control of the very gravity around them. The Hulk, who had been charging toward him for another attack, was suddenly lifted off his feet, shooting straight up into the sky like a rocket. The green giant roared in surprise, his massive form hurtling through the air at breakneck speed as Apocalypse manipulated the gravitational forces with a mere thought.


    Captain America was immediately on coms, calling out for someone to track him, even as he forced Namor back, who had seemed intent on rushing Apocalypse.


    The ground beneath the heroes'' feet began to shift, the rubble and debris rising into the air as if drawn by some unseen force. Houses at the edges of the city began to fall off the edge as slowly the city began to rise, the foundations tearing free from the earth with a deafening groan.


    "What the hell is happening?" Hawkeye shouted, his eyes wide with disbelief as he watched the city begin to lift into the sky.


    "I think he''s lifting the entire city!" Black Widow yelled back, her voice filled with a mix of shock and terror. What could they even do against this guy?


    At this point nuking the city seemed the best option, despite their presence.


    Apocalypse''s smile widened, his expression one of cold satisfaction as he watched Cairo begin to ascend. "Some of you are worthy," He said, his voice carrying across the battlefield. "Some are not. But you shall all witness my ascension."


    The city continued to rise, as Apocalypse lifted it higher and higher into the air. The buildings that still stood, creaked and groaned as the city continued to ascend, tilting precariously as Apocalypse''s immense power defied the laws of nature. The drone camera that had been capturing the battle still hovered nearby, broadcasting the scene live to the rest of the world. It recorded everything - the sheer destruction of Cairo, the chaos and fear etched on the faces of the heroes, and the impossible sight of a city being lifted into the heavens by a single, indomitable figure.


    Across the world, prayer intensified. The various religions all calling out to their gods - With one other name mentioned frequently even by those with no religious inclinations.


    Save us Justin Hammer, you''re our only hope!


    <hr>


    Space station,


    Justin was on a phone call with Sebastian Shaw, even as he speedwalked through the space station, alone. Heading towards the most secret location in the structure. Not even his own bodyguards knew what was down there. Only Justin and one other human being.


    Despite the anguish and the mental strain he was under, he felt physically better than ever, his body thrumming with energy as he hurried down the corridors deeper into the station.


    "Shaw, I''m sending you a live map of New York, use your hellions to push the enemy towards my team, and we''ll take them out. I''ll keep your people out of the spotlight." Justin said rapidly, not even having to ask as Nail automatically sent a live map of the situation to Shaw''s phone.


    Shaw grunted, "Good, the last thing I need from this mess is to have my dealings exposed."


    "The Hellfire club?" Justin asked, having been far too busy to keep track of everything that happened.


    "Still standing, you can thank Selene for that, the wards can handle a lot. Even Magneto, it appears. Good to have that tested, I suppose." Shaw said with forced casualness.


    Justin could tell the man was putting on an act. He was obviously rattled by what was happening.


    "At least something hasn''t blown up today then." Justin muttered, still livid, anger burning in his veins, keeping him focused.


    "I''m surprised you haven''t called on Selene, to be honest." Shaw said, probing. Testing me? Fuck right off.


    Justin scoffed loudly, "Don''t we have enough problems as is without inviting more?"


    Right now he had enough issues with the Mandarin preparing to let China launch nukes, having no interest in seeing Apocalypse hit Asia. If the fight kept going south, they''d all have more issues to deal with. Ellis at least was keeping a somewhat cool head this time, used to things, desentized to catastrophe, not panicking until Justin was showing the signs.


    He could hear Shaw''s smirk through the call as he replied. "I see you understand. Selene is inherently lazy, fine with lounging on a fake throne and playing with her subjects." Shaw''s voice took on a more serious tone, "I''m glad I don''t have to keep you from making more mistakes, Hammer."


    Justin didn''t like his tone, "Be careful, Shaw¡­" He warned, some of the absolute rage boiling in his blood shining through, "With all of New York under martial law, arranging an accident wouldn''t be too hard¡­"


    Shaw only chuckled, a bloodthirsty quality to his voice, "There are the fangs!" He crowed, "Welcome to the brotherhood¡­"


    "What?" Justin asked flatly, wondering if Shaw had lost his mind in the attack, despite not partaking personally.


    "Of Monsters, of course!" Shaw laughed.


    Justin just hung up on him, annoyed. He should have just delegated the phone call. Fucking Shaw.


    At least it had kept his mind occupied as he walked the last stretch. The walls grew darker, more utilitarian, as he descended into a part of the station not even his closest advisors had seen. His steps quickened, shoes clanking against the steel floor, his mind already running through what was to come.


    He''d spent the last several years doing everything to ensure he wouldn''t have to fight. But as he was a pessimist deep down - he''d still prepared. He''d used Forge, because the man''s mind control ensured his loyalty beyond any questions. His technical expertise was also above Vanko''s due to his power bullshit that could pull stuff out of his ass that he himself had no idea how it worked.


    He approached a sealed door at the end of a dimly lit hallway. The door was imposing, made of Vibranium, with no visible handle or keypad. As he neared it, a panel slid open beside him, revealing a series of biometric scanners. Justin placed his hand flat against the panel, feeling the brief sting of a needle as it drew a small drop of blood as well as scanned his palm print and fingerprints. A laser scanned his retina, and a voice recognition prompt flashed to life.


    "Identity confirmation required," A robotic voice intoned. This system was set up before Nail had come online - although Nail had been brought onboard the moment she''d been let loose on the world.


    "Justin Hammer," He stated clearly, his voice echoing in the silent hall. He then recited a long passcode, a series of numbers and words that would mean nothing to anyone but him. The system processed for a moment before a soft chime indicated acceptance.


    "Identity confirmed," The robotic voice acknowledged. The door hissed as it unlocked, a series of heavy bolts retracting with a mechanical clunk. The door slid open with a smooth motion, revealing the chamber beyond.


    Inside was a space unlike any other on the station. The room was dimly lit by a soft golden glow emanating from the far end, where a single object rested on a raised platform. The walls were lined with panels and screens displaying complex schematics and data streams, each one detailing various aspects of a single, central piece of technology. Justin stepped forward, his gaze fixed on the object before him.


    There, standing in the center of the room, was his power armor.


    The armor gleamed under the soft light, its surface a sleek blend of gold and black that exuded an almost regal authority. It stood tall and imposing, perfectly crafted to fit Justin''s form, with an elegance that was both beautiful and intimidating. Unlike the bulkier designs of his team, this armor was streamlined, a masterful combination of form and function. It was closer in looks to Iron Man then his own team, but he had a couple surprised installed that Forge had cooked up that could blow Tony out of the water.


    One of which would potentially be handy against Apocalypse. In fact he was counting on it.


    The helmet was the most striking part, designed to resemble a crown at the top. It was adorned with a set of angular ridges that gave it the appearance of a monarch''s headpiece.


    The visor was a thin golden line over a stern commanding face plate, no actual functionality to it, as the sights were entirely through sensors giving him a HUD when he was inside the suit.


    The chest plate was sculpted to mimic the muscular form, with gold plating that reflected the light in ripples, like liquid metal. Black accents ran down the sides and along the joints, emphasizing the armor''s flexibility and range of motion. The shoulders were broad and sharp, with layered plating that overlapped seamlessly.


    The arms and legs were encased in segmented plates that allowed for maximum agility while still providing the utmost protection. The gauntlets were reinforced, built to deliver powerful blows and take them, hidden weapons in the arms and hands designed by Forge, while the boots were fitted with thrusters for enhanced mobility and flight capabilities.


    The entire suit seemed to hum with a latent energy, as if it were alive, waiting for its master to don it and unleash its full potential. It was more than just a suit of armor - it was a statement, a declaration of intent. This was not a weapon for defense but a tool of dominion, designed to command and conquer.


    "Sir, the bifrost activated near Cairo." Nail reported, breaking the silence.


    Justin sighed, "Of course it did."


    When it rained it poured. Thor¡­ I''m going to kill you if you brought Hela¡­


    <hr>


    In Cairo, not much had changed, except that instead of a Hulk, it was now Namor going toe to toe with Apocalypse, and losing. Badly.


    Captain America and Jean Grey both attempted to strike, to assist the man, but neither of them could do any harm to Apocalypse, and mostly were an annoyance. Jean not daring to fully draw on her powers with others in the firing line. Not trusting herself to be able to handle it, nor, she had to admit to herself, did she trust it would be enough.


    "You dare to challenge a god?" Apocalypse called out, his voice booming across the city. His words were meant for all the heroes who were still gathered before him, but he knew that billions were watching, their eyes glued to screens all around the globe as well. "You fight, you struggle, but you are mere mortals. I am beyond you. I am the dawn of a new age. And you¡­ You are but children playing with forces you do not comprehend. Fight, struggle. Those of you who survive will belong to a new world order."


    With a sneer of contempt, he snapped one of Namor''s arms, the undersea king snarling as he tried to strike him with his working arm, until Apocalypse broke it as well, tossing Namor aside like a broken toy.


    Captain America, still rallying the others, tried to keep his voice steady, but even he couldn''t mask the uncertainty in his tone at how things were going. "Stay together! We need to regroup and find a way to bring him down!"


    Thor suddenly appeared, soaring in from the distance, joining the fray with a thunderous clap of his hammer. Lightning crackled around him as he flew toward Apocalypse, determination blazing in his eyes. "Fiend!" Thor bellowed, his voice like rolling thunder. "Face the might of Asgard!"


    Thor swung his hammer, launching a blast of lightning toward Apocalypse. The bolt struck with a deafening explosion, lighting up the sky and sending a shockwave rippling through the air. The entire city shuddered, but Apocalypse barely flinched. He absorbed the energy, his armor glowing faintly for a moment before dimming again. After Storm''s attack, he was already prepared to handle lightning, so the Asgardians attack didn''t even tickle.


    "Ah, the God of Thunder," Apocalypse said with a sneer, his voice dripping with mockery, plucking what he needed to know out of nearby minds. "Even you are nothing compared to me - a fake, a myth come alive with nothing to show for it."


    Before Thor could strike again, Apocalypse gestured with his hand, and the very ground beneath Thor shifted. The earth molded around the Asgardian, wrapping around his legs like iron chains, holding him fast. With another gesture, Apocalypse pulled, and Thor was flung sideways, crashing through a building that had begun to rise into the air. The structure crumbled around him, sending debris cascading onto the Asgardian King, the chains and rubble transmuting into something harder, holding Thor down completely, as he struggled in vain.


    "Hang on, we''ll get you out!" Captain America shouted, rushing forward to help, but a sudden gust of wind knocked him back. Apocalypse had shifted the air currents, sending a vortex swirling around him. Captain America struggled to maintain his footing as the wind threatened to tear his shield from his grasp and draw all air out of his lungs, his eyes tearing.


    Meanwhile, Storm hovered above, her eyes locked onto Apocalypse with a mixture of fear and fury. Her powers raged around her, she''d brought back the storm, albeit weaker, "We can''t let him win!" She yelled, her voice strained with effort as she fought to maintain control over the chaotic elements she had unleashed and that Apocalypse had torn apart.


    Suddenly, Apocalypse''s eyes snapped open, glowing with an eerie, unnatural light. "Witness my true power," He intoned, his voice a deep, resonant command that seemed to reverberate through the very core of every being present.


    Cairo, now hovering hundreds of feet in the air, began to rotate. The entire city spun slowly at first, then faster, as if it were a top winding up. Buildings teetered on the brink, their precarious positions becoming even more unstable. Roads cracked and split apart, chunks of concrete and metal tearing free and tumbling down into the open sky below.


    Storm lost control of the weather as the winds and gravity powers that Apocalypse were controlling tore it apart.


    Iron Man, still entombed in his malfunctioning armor, continued to crack jokes even now, his voice strained but defiant. "I''ve got to hand it to him, he''s got style, I''ve always wanted to rock a city." He said, wincing with each jolt that rocked the city. "But does anyone else feel like we''re on a very dangerous merry-go-round right now? I really don''t want to puke in here¡­"


    Hawkeye, still trying to drag Iron Man to safety, grunted in response. "Now''s not the time for jokes!"


    Black Widow, crouched nearby, scanned the horizon, trying to find some way to turn the tide. "We need a plan, and fast," She muttered, her mind racing. "Apocalypse is too strong for us to take on head-to-head. We need to outsmart him." She eyed the captive Thor, trying to figure out how to release him. If Apocalypse wanted him down, maybe he was an actual threat?


    "Outsmart him?" Hawkeye repeated incredulously. "How do you outsmart a guy who''s lifting a city into the air and spinning it around like a Harlem Globetrotter?"


    Tony complained lightly, "Oh, so you''re allowed to joke, I see how it is."


    Before anyone could answer, the ground beneath them shook violently. Apocalypse''s power was becoming more erratic, the gravitational forces twisting and warping the very fabric of reality around him. More and more of Cairo''s buildings began to break apart, the debris forming a swirling maelstrom around the ancient monster. It was as if parts of the city itself was being pulled into a black hole, collapsing inward on itself under the weight of Apocalypse''s immense power.


    At least the spinning had stopped, even if the situation had in no way improved.


    "You wanted a god to worship?" Apocalypse shouted, his voice rising above the cacophony. "You wanted a savior to protect you? I am that god. I am that savior to those that are worthy. And I shall show you what it means to face true power."


    With a wave of his hand, Apocalypse intensified the gravitational pull, drawing everything toward him. Cars, buses, and pieces of buildings were yanked from their positions, pulled into the swirling vortex that surrounded him. The heroes struggled to hold their ground, clinging to whatever they could find to avoid being sucked in.


    Storm, still fighting the maelstrom, called down another bolt of lightning, this one even more powerful than before as she coalesced her entire focus into one strike. It struck Apocalypse square in the chest, but he merely absorbed the energy, his eyes glowing brighter with each strike.


    "You think your powers can harm me now, Storm?" Apocalypse mocked. "You will soon learn the futility of your efforts." Yet her attack had stopped the others from being sucked in, the gravity normalizing outside the vortex of debris above Apocalypse.


    Storm, her face set with grim determination, continued her assault, refusing to back down. "I will not let you destroy this city, Apocalypse!" she shouted. "I will fight you to my last breath!"


    Apocalypse''s smile widened, his teeth gleaming in the dim light. "Very well," He said, his tone almost amused. "Then let us see how far your resolve can take you."


    With a gesture, Apocalypse unleashed a wave of telekinetic force, sending Storm hurtling through the air. She spiraled out of control, but managed to catch herself at the last moment, her powers flaring to keep her aloft. She hovered in the air, her breath ragged, but her eyes still blazing with determination.


    Xavier was being pulled back by his X-Men, who were all slowly retreating, except for Wolverine, who stood ready, unable to approach through the storm of debris, but waiting for an opportunity.


    "He''s too strong," Captain America shouted, his voice barely audible over the howling winds. "We need to regroup, figure out a new strategy!"


    Black Widow, her eyes locked on Apocalypse, nodded. "There has to be something we''re missing. Something he''s not showing us." She murmured to herself, trying to find any weakness, for once completely at a loss.


    Then suddenly, the vortex collapsed in, taking the position of a shield, as hundreds of steel beams, sharpened into massive bus sized javelins shot at him from all directions, Magneto rising above the battlefield, a cold look in his eyes as he surveyed them all.


    "Erik!" Xavier called out, looking relieved, before his face turned sorrowful, "It''s not your fault, Erik." He added, Magneto was missing his iconic helmet, allowing Xavier to easily read the inner turmoil of the man.


    Magneto gestured, and as he was now out of the steel beams he''d repurposed from broken skyscrapers in the city, he was now sending vehicles in a never-ending storm against Apocalypse, Storm herself adding to the attack by firing more lightning from the sky, her eyes glowing. Magneto looked down at Xavier, voice bereft of his usual arrogance, "Stay out of my head, Charles¡­"


    Suddenly Apocalypse switched powers again, the debris around him frozen in time, as he stepped around it all, not a wound on him, peering up at Magneto with an assessing gleam in his eyes, "You¡­ You''ll make for a worthy servant." He said, gesturing, time resuming where he''d stood before, everything crashing together with a cacophonous noise, Apocalypse brushing it all aside like it was dust.


    His eyes turned to Xavier, and he smiled. "You''ve done well to misdirect or halt my telepathy, cripple. If you weren''t so cowardly I would have offered you a place as a horseman for the coming of Apocalypse."


    Jean Grey snarled at him, ignoring Xavier''s mental pleas to not engage, "Professor Xavier is no coward! To have his power and not use it to take control takes more bravery then you can imagine!"


    Apocalypse laughed, meanwhile Magneto and Storm were preparing themselves for a combined attack, sending each other silent looks - they''d been enemies long enough to not need to speak to get their ideas across. The Avengers hung back, recognizing how outclassed they were at the moment.


    Apocalypse let his laugh drift off, his eyes on Jean, "You could be worthy, perhaps." He said, eyes sliding to Xavier with naked malice, "You would do the deed if you could, whereas this man had to hire someone to mind wipe the one you call Beast, as he lacked the courage to go through with it himself."


    "He would never do that!" Jean said fiercely, all the X-Men reenergized in defense of their leader. Wolverine snarled at Apocalypse, only holding back as he realized Magneto and Storm were up to something, waiting for the surprise attack to rush in himself.


    "Yet he does not speak in his defense¡­" Apocalypse said smugly.


    Black Widow and Hawkeye exchanged looks, aghast at the fact an enemy this powerful was also capable of more subtle avenues of breaking his enemies.


    "I''m sorry, is the mind rapist on our side?" Tony queried between them. "Did we know that? I didn''t know that. I feel like I should be told that kind of thing."


    Beast glanced at Xavier, as did Jean, and both of them felt like the world had fallen from underneath their feet at the guilty and shameful look the Professor wore.


    "No¡­" Jean cried out, even as Beast staggered back against a broken wall, naked shock on his features as he stared at Xavier. Even Wolverine gave him a look, unsure. The sanctity of his mind - now in question.


    In one reveal, Apocalypse had demoralized and broken the X-Men.


    Magneto growled in frustration, at Xavier, and at Apocalypse, as even Storm was temporarily frozen in shock. "Charles you fool!" He muttered.


    Just then with the lull in fighting, Apocalypse turned his gaze to the camera drone, his eyes glowing with a malevolent light. "It is only fitting that a god makes his place above the vermin, is it not?" he said, his voice carrying a tone of cold amusement. "None here can defeat me, none here is the champion of these mortals¡­"


    "I am waiting, Hammer."


    The mention of Justin Hammer''s name sent a ripple of surprise through the gathered heroes. Even amidst the chaos, they could feel the weight of Apocalypse''s words, the challenge he was issuing.


    "The minds of these rats dying all over all say the same thing," Apocalypse continued, his tone almost mocking. "Begging and praying for you to help. I am waiting, Hammer. Come face me. They pray to you, but I shall show you a real god..."


    As the heroes stared in shock, Cairo continued to rise, the city now several hundred feet in the air, the ground beneath them a gaping void. The battle was far from over, and not for the first time, some of the heroes wondered. Where was the H.A.M.M.E.R team?


    Something that echoed across the world as people prayed for their arrival, for Justin Hammer to save the situation. Defeat the enemy, like he''d defended Earth from Asgardian invasion.


    Just then, Hela strode confidently down the broken street of Cairo, her presence commanding even amidst the chaos of the battle. The goddess of death moved with a predatory grace, her every step echoing against the fractured concrete as she passed by the collapsed form of her half brother, Thor. He lay pinned beneath the rubble, trapped by the shifting transmuted earth that Apocalypse had manipulated around him. His face was a mix of determination and pain, straining against the restraints that bound him.


    Hela paused beside him, a smirk curling her lips. "The weak brother," She teased, her voice dripping with condescension. She bent down, patting Thor''s head as if he were a child, making no effort to free him. The taunt was casual, almost affectionate in its cruelty.


    Thor struggled against his bonds, his muscles straining. "Hela," He grunted, anger flashing in his eyes, "Your freedom, your very existence right now, depends on us defeating this monster and saving Midgard. Do not forget that."


    Hela straightened, her eyes gleaming with a dark amusement. "Oh, I haven''t forgotten," She replied smoothly. "But that doesn''t mean I can''t enjoy the view for a moment." She winked at him, her tone mocking. "Besides, you''re the one desperate for that deal, not I, oh King of Asgard..."


    Apocalypse turned his attention to Hela. His eyes narrowed as he studied her, recognizing the power that radiated from her being. There was a moment of silence as he assessed her, his head tilting slightly to the side. "You¡­ You are worthy," He finally declared. "You shall be one of my Four Horsemen."


    Hela''s lips curled into a disdainful smile. "An offer from you?" She scoffed. "How flattering." Her tone was dripping with sarcasm, but there was a cold edge to her words. She flicked her hair back with a casual hand, clearly unimpressed.


    "Do not underestimate him," Thor warned, his voice tight with both frustration and concern. "He is powerful. Your freedom can only be bartered if we win here today, you can not return to Asgard, but Midgard will take you."


    Hela let out an exasperated sigh, rolling her eyes at Thor''s words. "I''m well aware of the terms of my freedom, brother dear," She replied, her voice tinged with annoyance and diagust. "But really, must you spoil all my fun?"


    With a slow, deliberate motion, she ran her hands over her body, her fingers tracing the contours of her figure. Shadows rippled around her, and her casual attire melted away, replaced by her dark, imposing armor. The black metal glistened with an otherworldly sheen, spikes jutting from her shoulders, as a horned helmet formed over her head. In her hands, blades materialized, long and sharp, ready for battle.


    "It''s not like it was an attractive offer anyway," She continued, her voice now a low, dangerous purr. "The goddess of death does not serve." The last word was snarled, and with a fluid motion, she flung her blades toward Apocalypse with lethal intent.


    The blades sliced through the air, a barrage of sharp, deadly steel hurtling toward the ancient monster. Apocalypse''s eyes widened slightly, but only for a moment. With a gesture, he commanded the very earth beneath him to rise, forming a shield of solid rock that turned to some dark metal that absorbed most of the blades. The ground cracked and groaned under the pressure, but one blade managed to slip through, slicing past his defenses and scratching his chin. A thin line of blood appeared, dark against his blue skin.


    Apocalypse''s eyes darkened, a smirk tugging at his lips. He reached up and touched the scratch, his fingers coming away with a smear of blood. "All of you," He said slowly, his voice a mix of amusement and menace, "All of what you''ve brought to bear, all that you send at me, and all you have to show for it is a single drop of blood."


    Hela cocked her hip, her expression one of mock disappointment as she twirled a remaining blade in her hand. "I just got here, you know," She replied with a sarcastic tone. "Give a girl a moment to warm up." Her smile turned predatory. "Besides, I''m a bit rusty. But don''t worry, there will be plenty of blood. I promise."


    Thor, still trapped and struggling beneath the debris, raised an eyebrow at her words. "You mean his blood, right?" He called out, trying to keep his voice light despite the gravity of the situation. "Not ours?"


    Hela shot him a sly grin, her eyes glinting with cruelty. "Collateral damage, brother," She replied, her tone playful yet sinister. "Some sacrifices must be made for the greater good, don''t you think?"


    Apocalypse grinned with pleasure as he watched Storm, Magneto, Hela and Wolverine all advance.


    "My four horsemen¡­" He said with relish, stomping forward to meet them in glorious battle, each one embodying a different facet of power and defiance. The thrill of combat surged through him, a rare exhilaration that he had not felt in centuries, even before his sleep. Here were four who dared to stand against him, who possessed the strength and will to challenge his might. His eyes gleamed with a dark hunger as he spread his arms wide, inviting the assault.


    "Come, then," Apocalypse taunted, his voice echoing across the shattered landscape of Cairo. "Let me see if you are truly worthy to face me."


    Hela moved first, a blur of black and green as she launched herself at Apocalypse, her blades slicing through the air with deadly precision. Magneto followed closely behind, his hands crackling with magnetic energy as he ripped chunks of metal from the debris around them, hurling them like missiles at Apocalypse. Storm and Wolverine hung back for a moment, coordinating their attack with a brief nod. Storm raised her arms, her eyes glowing white as she summoned the fury of the elements, while Wolverine crouched low, ready to spring.


    Apocalypse responded with a sweep of his hand, manipulating the air currents to deflect Hela''s blades, sending them spiraling off course. He barely had time to pivot as Magneto''s projectiles flew toward him, the metal fragments twisting in mid-air as Apocalypse bent them to his will, sending them crashing harmlessly into the ground.


    "You are strong, but strength alone will not suffice," Apocalypse declared, his voice calm even in the midst of the chaos. "You must learn to use your power wisely, to fight as one, to fight unhindered by restraint or morals, to become unleashed."


    Storm hovered in the air, her face a mask of determination as she called upon the skies to unleash their wrath yet again. Thunder was pointless, so instead she manipulated the very air, winds whipped around them, a hurricane-force gale that sent debris swirling and dust into the air, blocking Apocalypse''s sight, even as the wind pushed him back a step.


    Wolverine seized the moment, launching himself at Apocalypse with a feral roar, his claws gleaming in the eerie light. He landed on Apocalypse''s back, his adamantium claws slashing at the ancient beings'' flesh. Apocalypse grimaced, the cuts deeper than before as he didn''t have the same power up, but he quickly retaliated. With a surge of air manipulation, he twisted Storms efforts, flinging Wolverine off and into the side of a crumbling building with a bone-jarring crash.


    "Pathetic!" Apocalypse growled, raising a hand to the sky. He unleashed a wave of telekinetic energy, aiming to dispel the storm raging above again. Storm gritted her teeth, struggling to maintain her control as the winds whipped around her, but Apocalypse''s power was immense. The clouds began to scatter, and the storm grew weaker, the intensity fading against his might.


    "Is that the only trick you have?" He asked her, sounding disappointed. "Perhaps I was mistaken."


    Hela, meanwhile, darted in and out of the shadows, her movements fluid and intent. She conjured more blades in her hands, flinging them at Apocalypse with pinpoint accuracy even as she moved closer. A few managed to slip past his defenses, striking his armor and drawing more blood. Her laughter was low and dark, a sound that seemed to echo from the depths of the underworld, as she danced around Magneto''s missiles, moving ever closer as both his and her attacks pushed Apocalypse back.


    "You think yourself a god," Hela taunted, her eyes glittering with malice. "But you bleed like any other mortal. You can be cut down." She moved closer, her every step measured, her body coiled like a predator waiting for the perfect moment to strike.


    Magneto, still hovering nearby, took advantage of Apocalypse''s momentary distraction. He focused his power, momentarily stopping the rain of tiny missiles, feeling the magnetic fields around him, bending the very fabric of the metal scattered across the battlefield. With a roar, he sent a massive wave of steel and iron crashing toward Apocalypse, each piece moving with the speed of a bullet around Hela all unerringly going for Apocalypse''s vital points.


    Apocalypse grunted as the metal slammed into him, the impact driving him back a few paces. But his eyes remained steady, his focus unbroken. He raised his hands, and the metal began to liquefy, dripping to the ground in molten streams. "You possess great power, Magneto," He acknowledged, "But you don''t wield it appropriately, you lack hunger."


    Wolverine got in his face, but despite his claws being able to wound Apocalypse, he wasn''t a threat when the ancient beings could see him coming. Apocalypse casually burned Wolverine alive, flames erupting around him, before leaving him behind as Storm tried to assist Wolverine.


    With a sudden burst of speed, Apocalypse surged forward, and despite Magneto using his powers to turn momentarily invisible by warping the light around him, he closed the distance between himself and Magneto in an instant, breaking through the invisibility. He grabbed Magneto by the throat, lifting him effortlessly into the air. "You cannot hope to stand against me with rage alone," He said, his grip tightening. Magneto struggled, his face turning red as he tried to pull in air, his limbs flailing as metal assaulted Apocalypse to no avail. "Unleash your inner beast, let go of your inhibitions!" With causal ease he headbutted the master of magnetism, making his head loll around.


    Before he could deliver a final blow to push Magneto further into desperation, a bolt of lightning struck Apocalypse directly in the back, followed by a second and third in rapid succession. Storm had managed to gather her power again, her face a mask of determination. The electricity crackled around Apocalypse, lighting him up like a Christmas tree, but he seemed unfazed. He dropped Magneto, who fell to the ground, dazed and struggling to stay conscious.


    "Back away from him!" Storm shouted, her voice commanding, filled with the fury of the tempest she wielded. She summoned a whirlwind that rushed toward Apocalypse, lifting debris from the ground and pelting him with it, intending to push him away, the winds echoing the worst type of hurricanes in just a limited area.


    Apocalypse staggered, momentarily taken aback by the assault, whatever power he kept using to defend himself with, not entirely successful against wind. He grinned, his teeth gleaming in the flickering light of the storm. "I suppose even the same trick can work if done at such a skillful level," He said, his voice filled with grudging respect. "You have power, Storm. True power, when I break you, I''ll teach you how to utilize it properly, to make the world quake under your storms."


    He lifted his arms, the air around him shimmering as he created a field of energy. The whirlwind dissipated against it, the debris falling harmlessly to the ground. With a flick of his wrist, he sent a shockwave rippling out, knocking Storm from the sky. She screamed as she fell, crashing hard into the ground below, unconscious upon impact as Apocalypse sped her downfall with gravity, slamming her unforgivingly into the earth.


    "Storm! I''ll gut you, you bastard!" Wolverine shouted, charging at Apocalypse once more, his claws ready to tear into flesh, his body mostly regenerated already. Hela joined in, sprinting toward Apocalypse with a murderous grin, the whirlwind having kept her back, her blades ready to carve him to pieces. They attacked in unison, Wolverine slashing at Apocalypse''s chest while Hela aimed for his throat.


    But Apocalypse was ready for them. He reached out with both hands, grabbing Wolverine by the wrists mid-swing. With a grunt of effort, he slammed Wolverine into the ground, the impact creating a crater beneath them. The ancient mutant then twisted his grip power blaring off him, and Wolverine cried out in surprise as Apocalypse forced him into a time suspension bubble, his body freezing in mid-cry.


    Apocalypse turned his attention to Hela, who continued her attack unabated, despite frozen sheets of time itself covering his vitals while he dealt with Wolverine. She moved with a deadly grace, each strike precise and powerful. She slashed at him, and for a moment, it seemed like she might break through his defenses. But Apocalypse''s hand shot out, catching her wrist. He twisted, and she grimaced as he forced her to her knees.


    "You are strong, Hela," Apocalypse said, his voice filled with dark amusement. "But strength alone will not defeat me."


    Hela grinned, baring her teeth. "I''ve yet to show you all my strength," She hissed, twisting her body and slipping free from his grasp with an agility that took even Apocalypse by surprise. She rolled away, coming up in a crouch, her eyes fixed on him with a bloodthirsty gleam.


    Magneto, having recovered slightly, suffering from a concussion, raised his hands, calling upon the last reserves of his strength to launch another wave of metal at Apocalypse, while also focusing elsewhere, force fields layered around Apocalypse to force him to take the strike. But this time, Apocalypse was ready and done playing. With a contemptuous flick of his wrist, he sent the metal flying back at Magneto, who barely managed to deflect it. Apocalypse moved with blinding speed crushing through the force fields, closing the distance between them in an instant. He grabbed Magneto by the arm, his grip unbreakable, with a swift, brutal motion he twisted, and there was a sickening crack as Magneto''s arm broke.


    Magneto cried out, as Apocalypse promptly broke his other limbs as well, and tossed him aside, like a rag doll, "Stop holding back." He spat down at the man, before turning away, dismissing him for now.


    Apocalypse turned to Hela, the only one left standing of the fighters, the others, the weak ones, watching from a distance. Hela watched him warily, the bloodthirsty smile still on her face. She had seen what he was capable of, and while she relished the fight, she was not foolish enough to underestimate him. "This isn''t over," She snarled, raising her blades once more, ready to continue the battle. "If I had even a fraction of my real power, you''d already be in pieces at my feet."


    Apocalypse smiled, a cruel, predatory grin. "No," He agreed. "It is not. But it soon will be."


    With a roar, he lunged at her, and the battle continued, the ground shaking beneath their feet as they clashed.


    All over the world, people cried out in fear, the call for Hammer growing.


    The world all joined in one thought, where is H.A.M.M.E.R, where is their savior?


    Where is Justin Hammer?


    <hr>


    Space station,


    Justin stood outside the reinforced door, his armored fingers hovering over the console that would unlock Hope''s cell. The metal walls of the space station''s detention area seemed to close in on him, amplifying the echo of his own breath within the confines of his helmet. He took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his actions settle heavily on his shoulders. He knew what he had done was unlikely to be taken well, but he couldn''t lose Hope, not after everything that had happened. The world outside was descending into chaos, and all he could think about was keeping her safe, even if it meant taking away her freedom.


    He seriously doubted she''d see his point. Especially as she was unaware of just what had happened, kept safe in the bowels of the station. Maybe he was making a mistake. Seeing her. Letting her fight. But not letting her take part now, with the entire team in play¡­ He''d lose her then too.


    With a reluctant sigh, Justin pressed the button. The heavy metal door slid open with a hiss, revealing Hope standing in the center of the small cell, her expression a mixture of fury and betrayal. She was still in her Wasp armor, her eyes narrowing as she saw him. Not needing to see his face to instantly realize that this regal looking armor was his.


    "So, you finally decided to let me out?" She snapped, crossing her arms over her chest. "What changed, Justin? You finally realize that keeping me locked up isn''t going to solve anything?"


    Justin removed his helmet, setting it aside. He could see the anger simmering in her eyes, and it twisted something deep inside him. "Hope, I''m sorry," He began, his voice heavy, despite the fact he didn''t regret what he''d done one bit. "I couldn''t risk losing you. Not with everything that''s happening. I -"


    "Risk losing me?" Hope cut him off, her voice rising in anger. "You took my agency, Justin! You decided what you wanted, and then you forced it on me! How could you do that? How could you think that was okay?"


    "I had no choice," Justin insisted, his tone firm, just wanting her to understand. "You don''t understand. I had to protect you. If you went out there against Magneto -"


    Hope''s eyes blazed with anger. "That''s the excuse people all over the world use to justify doing whatever the hell they want! ''No choice''? There''s always a choice, Justin! You just chose what was easiest for you. You wanted me safe, so you locked me up like some kind of prisoner."


    "I didn''t want to lose you," Justin repeated, his voice dropping to a whisper, not quite pleading. Even now he couldn''t make himself fall that far, he was still running on too much rage and hatred.


    "Well, guess what?" Hope shot back, her voice dripping with venom. "I thought we were friends. Friends don''t kidnap friends and lock them up to keep them safe from the world. You crossed a line, Justin. A line you can''t uncross, that''s how you lose people, by forcing your will on them, taking away their rights."


    He took a step forward, but Hope held up a hand, stopping him. "I had to," Justin said, his voice barely audible. "You''re mine, Hope. I had to protect you." He winced even as he said it, he was usually much smoother than this - the situation and his swirling emotions getting the better of him at the worst time.


    Her eyes widened in disbelief and anger. "I am not yours," She spat. "I am my own person, not a thing! And I''m not one of your bed warmers either." She tossed out in sudden spite, "Did you lock Domino up too? Or Phantazia, Yelena? Or am I the only one you think needs saving?"


    Justin flinched at her words, a sharp pang of guilt twisting in his chest. He knew he couldn''t hide the truth from her. She was right, he had treated her differently, and now he was paying the price for it. His armor masked the pain on his face, but his silence spoke volumes. He didn''t dare show the look of despair that crossed his face at the thought of Domino. She didn''t know, he told himself, but even the mention still stung.


    He didn''t want to bring her against Apocalypse, for the same reason as with Magneto. But he couldn''t leave a weapon unused, just in case. And perhaps she''d even forgive him in time, if he let her join this fight.


    All I have is bad choices¡­


    The silence stretched between them, thick and heavy. Finally, Justin spoke, his voice low and resigned. "We''re going to fight the monster threatening the world, as a team. I need every person I can get. If you''re willing to come, I could use your help." I''m sorry¡­ He left unsaid.


    Hope stared at him for a long moment, her expression unreadable. Then she nodded, but there was no warmth in her eyes. "I''ll help," She said, her voice cold. "But after this¡­ I don''t know, Justin. I just don''t know." She sighed, eyes softening momentarily, "We''ll¡­ Talk later, okay." She said, losing some of the coldness.


    Without another word, Justin raised his hand, making the motion for a portal, opening a portal to the battle in New York, mostly done now by Nails estimates, the police, military and heroes like Spiderman could mop up the leftovers - those who weren''t fleeing desperately. He stepped aside, allowing her to go first. She hesitated for a brief moment, then walked past him without a glance, her posture rigid with anger and hurt.


    Justin watched her step through the portal, feeling a hollowness in his chest that his armor couldn''t protect him from. There were no words left to say. He followed her through the portal, into the chaos, knowing that whatever happened next, things between them would never be the same.


    <hr>


    New York,


    He stepped through the portal, the scenery shifting instantly as he found himself amidst the chaos of New York City. The air was still thick with smoke and the acrid smell of burning metal, the streets littered with debris from the battle that had raged for hours. Fires burned unchecked, casting an eerie glow across the shattered remnants of once-familiar landmarks.


    Justin''s visor flashed as it synced with the locator beacons of his team, each signal popping up as a bright dot on his HUD. With a thought, he moved to the first location, creating a portal, him and Hope stepping through to find Bucky and Electro pinning down a group of Magneto''s remaining metahumans.


    His arc reactors flaring, he fired one shot from his chest, atomizing the three metahumans, before turning to his team, gesturing for them to come. Nail would have undoubtedly already informed them of the purpose.


    "Let''s go," Justin commanded, his voice amplified through the suit''s external speakers. Bucky, his face set in a grim mask of determination, nodded and grabbed Electro, who was already crackling with energy. They moved swiftly through the next portal Justin created.


    Next was Frank and Brock, their Scorpion and Vulture suits still gleaming as they turned and faced Justin, no metahumans alive in their vicinity. They had been effective in cleaning up their quadrant of New York. All in all, less than a dozen of Magneto''s army still lived. The forces taken down by the police, military or his team. With the last having the largest slice of the prize.


    "Fall in." Justin ordered, opening another portal. Frank and Brock didn''t need to be told twice. They leaped through, joining Bucky, Hope and Electro as they moved to get their last team member. Each team member was ready, prepared by Nail for what they''d face, all of them solemn. They all knew the stakes. They all knew what had to be done.


    They all knew it was unlikely they would all survive.


    Justin''s HUD blinked again, highlighting Vanko''s position. The man was just finishing off a metahuman with his electrified whips, before withdrawing them into his full suit, his helmeted head turning in their direction.


    "Get through!" Justin ordered, and Vanko complied, without even a word, for once not having a smart comment. The man only stopped to put his hand on Justin''s shoulder briefly. Before walking through the portal.


    This last portal had brought them back to the space station, into one of the hangars, where Phantazia and Yelena waited. The group was now complete, and Justin turned to them. "Listen up," He said, his voice steady and commanding. "We''re going straight into the heart of this fight. I''m going to portal us right in front of Apocalypse. I want all of you to unleash everything you''ve got - don''t hold back. We need to hit him hard and fast. I''ve got a plan, and I need you all to hold him, just for a moment. If everything works out, we''ll have him in the first attack."


    He gestured to the weaponry already laid out for them, for Bucky and Yelena, due to their lack of firepower for this particular fight. "Cap, Yelena, use one of these."


    Bucky and Yelena both picked a large HammerTech rifle, these particular versions souped up by Forge, and powered by a miniature arc reactor. They''d match a full powered Iron Man blast - for a very short while before they overloaded. But they meant Yelena and Bucky could contribute from afar.


    No one wanted to get in close to Apocalypse. Not with the crazy amount of powers he was showcasing.


    Justin looked them all over, having not even gotten a comment on his armor, everyone fully in battle mode, fully serious. "The only order I have left is, don''t die. I''ll fucking kill you." He said harshly, holding back from looking at Hope.


    She''d make it. This plan would work. It had to.


    His team nodded, their resolve clear on their faces - or in their actions, for those whose faces were covered. Justin opened a new portal, the orange light spilling onto the street that had become a global stage, watched by billions. The world held its breath as H.A.M.M.E.R. prepared to make its stand.


    One by one, the team jumped through the portal, emerging right in the middle of the street where Apocalypse stood. They wasted no time. Bucky, armed with his HammerTech rifle enhanced to fire repulsor blasts, opened fire, each shot booming through the air. Frank and Brock followed suit, their suits'' weapon systems humming to life, unleashing a barrage of arc reactor-powered beams.


    Vanko let loose with his unibeam, a giant arc of blue energy lashing out toward Apocalypse, while Electro roared with fury, his entire body crackling with a blinding electrical storm that surged toward their target. Even Hope, clad in her Wasp armor, forwent her usual tactic of shrinking down, having been briefed quickly by Nail while they got the others. She instead opted to use the repulsors her suit had installed what felt so long ago now. Yelena matching Bucky, her eyes narrowed with determination as she fired blast after blast at Apocalypse.


    Justin was the last through the portal. He landed on the ground, the impact cracking the pavement beneath his armored feet. Without pausing, he created another portal, this one behind Apocalypse, making sure he wasn''t going to get hit. He moved swiftly, launching himself forward with his suit''s thrusters, the golden and black armor gleaming as he closed the distance, not willing to give Apocalypse even a second''s more warning than necessary.


    If this didn''t work, orbital bombardment was the only choice.


    In the palm of his right hand, Justin had the tip of the device Forge had built into his armors hand, a tool that could depower metahumans. As he came up behind Apocalypse, he reached out, the armored hand latching onto Apocalypse''s shoulder with a solid clank. A powerful field enveloped the ancient mutant, the air around them shimmering with energy.


    Justin fired his thrusters again, propelling himself away from Apocalypse as his team continued their assault. The beams converged on Apocalypse, a searing torrent of energy that struck him completely as his defense failed him, the beams previously held back now impacting him full force. The street was bathed in a blinding light, the air vibrating with the combined force of their attack.


    The world held its breath, Justin Hammer''s name on their lips.


    Justin almost jumped out of his armor as his breath caught, power rushing through him, filling up his veins, he felt invincible!


    "What was that little trick?" A voice asked from behind Justin. He turned his head slightly to see Hela standing there, watching him with a mixture of curiosity and amusement. Her presence was unsettling, her eyes sharp and calculating.


    He''d known from Nail that she was here, and he was still deeply unhappy about that. Almost wishing to just shoot Thor where he lay caught. Except that would just make Hela the queen, the only choice as the only ''survivor'' of Odin''s children.


    "A device that depowers metahumans," Justin replied quietly to just her, not wanting to give her a reason to ask more impolitely, nor wanting the actual knowledge of the device''s capabilities to be broadcasted live. He watched as the onslaught continued, his team pouring everything they had into the attack. We got him! He couldn''t help but feel vindicated.


    Fury had gambled and lost. His Avengers, meant to save his reputation, remove his hunted status by SHIELD, shown as ineffectual in front of billions. Justin taking the moment to point at Namor, "Don''t go anywhere, you''re under arrest for the Genocide of Wakanda and the deaths of thousands of American and allied soldiers."


    Captain America stepped up to defend Namor, who just glared at Justin spitefully, the Captain''s eyes straying to Bucky, even as he spoke, "He''s been manipulated, it wasn''t his fault, the fact he came here to fight, volunteered, it shows he''s one of the good guys."


    Justin couldn''t have fucked the Captain over better if he''d scripted it. Just defend the genocide bastard infront of the entire world, thank you for the gift. "You move, I shoot to kill." Justin told Namor blandly, ignoring Cap, his eyes turning back to where Apocalypse was destroyed.


    The beams slowly began to dissipate, the blinding light fading to reveal Apocalypse. Most of his body had been destroyed, reduced to a charred, skeletal form. For a moment, there was a stunned silence, a collective gasp from those watching, both on the street and around the world. They''d done it!


    But then, before their eyes, Apocalypse began to rejuvenate. Flesh and muscle knitted back together, his form rapidly regenerating until he stood whole once more. Justin''s heart sank. Only one power, then, he thought bitterly. The device hadn''t depowered Apocalypse entirely, it had only stripped him of whatever ability he was using to shield himself from their attack. Taking only one power away.


    Apocalypse''s eyes opened, glowing with an unholy light. His expression was one of cold disdain. "You think you are worthy?" He said, his voice resonating with power. "Your tools may have given you a momentary taste of victory, but tools alone will never defeat a god."


    In a blur of speed, Apocalypse moved, faster than any of them could react, moving with superspeed, showing that he had indeed simply been playing with them. He slammed into Justin''s team with a force that sent them sprawling. Justin braced himself, his suit''s systems screaming warnings as he was yanked backward by Hela just in time to avoid a devastating blow.


    Did I just get saved by Hela? What the fuck?


    He stumbled, regaining his footing, only to see Apocalypse standing in the center of the street, holding Hope by the throat. Her Wasp armor was running off her, liquified to prevent her from using it, her eyes wide with fear as she struggled in his grasp.


    Justin felt everything stop. No, no¡­ Not again, no! The world slowed down, until the only thing in the world was her face, her eyes. I shouldn''t have brought her, I shouldn''t have tried to make up for sidelining her before! I''ve killed her!


    Anguish tore through him, even as hatred flooded his vein. At Apocalypse, at himself¡­


    "You care for this one, do you not?" Apocalypse asked, his voice a mockery of concern. He lifted Hope higher, her feet dangling above the ground, her breath coming in short, panicked gasps.


    Justin''s heart clenched, a surge of desperation flooding through him. "Let her go!" He shouted, stepping forward, his suit''s weapons primed and ready. "This is between you and me, Apocalypse, you wanted to fight me, you called me the Savior. Leave her out of it!" Even as he said it, he knew there was no use. He knew men like this. The result was already preordained.


    Hope¡­ I''m too weak¡­ I''m sorry. For the first time in this life, he shed honest tears, as he watched her, knowing without a doubt, what was about to happen.


    Apocalypse''s lips curled into a cruel smile. "You dare to command me, mortal?" He said, his grip tightening around Hope''s neck. "You are not worthy to make demands of a god." Hope mouthed I''m sorry, to Justin, breaking his heart, before Apocalypse twisted her neck casually, the crack echoing as her body fell limp, finishing the deed by disintegrating her body, ashes floating away in the street as he stared smugly at Justin.


    At that moment. A world of billions all joined in one thought. Hammer¡­ Make him pay.


    Justin''s heart was pounding with a mix of grief, hate, and rage. The weight of his loss pressed down on him like an anchor, every thought filled with the faces of those he had failed to protect - Domino, Hope, Kaecillius, his entire team, New York, Cairo. Apocalypse had left a trail of destruction, and the world was watching, praying for a savior.


    Suddenly feeling himself filled with power, as he stared down Apocalypse, he knew what he had to do. This power. He understood now, figured out what happened. Divine DNA, a world praying. They were giving him the juice to win. To get revenge!


    But he couldn''t do it just like this. He wasn''t enough. They weren''t enough. He needed more. Wished desperately for more, to destroy the monster who''d ruined everything, taken everything.


    With a fierce determination, he made the motion that was well practiced by now with his sling ring and conjured a portal, his mind reaching far beyond Earth, across the vast expanse of space. He had no time for hesitation. In an instant, he was on Morag, the distant planet covered in ancient ruins and violent seas. His breath came in short gasps, more from the intensity of his emotions than from anything else.


    The temple holding the Power Stone lay ahead, its containment device glowing ominously in the dim light. Justin moved quickly, his new godly energy making his steps almost weightless. He approached the device, his armored hand trembling as he sought the container. His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts - rage at Apocalypse, despair over his fallen allies, for Hope, Domino¡­ A deep, gnawing sense of loss filled him, made him reckless.  Without a moment''s pause, he broke through the containment, grabbing the container, opening it, revealing the glowing purple stone inside.


    Justin stared at the Power Stone, its energy radiating with a raw, uncontrollable power. He could feel its pull, the sheer magnitude of its might calling to him, promising both destruction and salvation. For a moment, doubt flickered in his mind - could he wield such a force? Could he control it? But the image of Hope dying while he stood helpless, filled his thoughts again, and his resolve hardened. He couldn''t fail them, not again. No one else would die.


    And if the Ancient One was going to continue hiding away, refusing to help. He would now have another card to convince her to see his point of view. She would not get away with an excuse for this. She hadn''t stepped in, she hadn''t helped. She would do as Justin bid. He swore it.


    Gritting his teeth, Justin raised his armored hand and slammed the Power Stone against his palm. Instantly, a wave of unimaginable pain shot through his body, every nerve igniting as if set on fire. He screamed, the sound echoing across the empty expanse of Morag. The stone embedded itself into his armor, and the raw power coursed through him, threatening to tear him apart from the inside out.


    The pain was excruciating, but beneath it was a sensation of immense power - a force unlike anything he had ever felt. It was like trying to contain a star within his body, the energy roiling and churning, demanding to be released. Justin''s scream turned into a roar of defiance, his willpower and the godly energies enhancing his body were the only things keeping him from being consumed.


    He could feel his consciousness expanding, the Power Stone''s energy connecting him to the cosmos. He saw glimpses of distant galaxies, stars being born and dying, and the infinite vastness of space. The pain began to lessen, replaced by a strange clarity. He was holding the Power Stone, something only the strongest could do, and he was still standing.


    He was strong.


    Fueled by his grief and rage, Justin opened another portal, back to Cairo. His team was still locked in battle, being overwhelmed by Apocalypse. They were fighting bravely, but it was clear they were losing ground, Electro laying unmoving on the ground, Bucky with his artificial arm broken, fighting together with Steve. Apocalypse moved among them like a force of nature, effortlessly deflecting attacks and striking back with lethal precision.


    From appearances, only Hela constantly hitting Apocalypse just as he was going for the kill - was keeping everyone alive.


    Justin''s anger flared as he saw his team being battered, Hope''s eyes as she accepted death, fresh in his mind. He shot forward, flying at full speed, his right hand outstretched, the Power Stone glowing brighter with each passing second. The energy around him crackled and sparked, the very air vibrating with the intensity of the stone''s power. He could feel the prayers of billions around the world, their hopes and fears converging on him as he hurtled toward Apocalypse.


    Apocalypse sensed the surge of energy and turned, a mocking sneer on his lips. But before he could react, Justin was upon him, the Power Stone in his hand glowing like a miniature sun. The air between them seemed to warp and twist under the weight of the stone''s energy.


    Justin''s voice was filled with all the pain and fury that had built up inside him, every ounce of his being focused on the one word that came out as a roar: "Disintegrate!" The word carrying all his hatred as he punched the monster in the face.


    The Power Stone flared to life, its energy exploding outward in a blinding flash of light. Apocalypse''s mocking expression faltered for a split second, replaced by surprise, then pain, as the energy washed over him ripping into his very being.


    The raw power of the stone tore through Apocalypse''s defenses, ripping away his armor and skin, disintegrating flesh and bone, leaving nothing but dust in its wake. Justin watched, his eyes burning with fury, as Apocalypse was reduced to nothing more than a cloud of ash scattered by the winds.


    Immediately the city began to fall, Justin however slammed his hand down onto the ground, "No." He said simply, ordered. The power stone latching on to the gravity manipulation Apocalypse had done, making it permanent, not lacking in the power to make it work.


    Cairo remained. Broken, but floating in the sky. Justin could feel the Power Stone burning through him, his Extremis barely keeping up anymore. He created a hand sized portal to a location that was safe, and ejected his gauntlet, closing it, Nail would keep it safe.


    The world rejoiced, crying out his name as they watched him stand victorious.


    It all tasted like ash.


    <hr>

 Ancient One(s)

    <hr>


    Cairo,


    Justin stood amidst the ruined streets of Cairo, his armor weighing heavily on his shoulders. The drone camera continued to hover nearby, its red light blinking as it streamed live to the billions of viewers around the world. Justin knew they were still being watched, knew that the world''s eyes were on him at this very moment. He needed to keep his composure, even if every part of him was screaming to let loose, to fall apart in the face of all that had happened.


    He took a deep breath and removed his helmet, feeling the cool, gritty air of the city against his sweat-dampened skin. His face was a mask of exhaustion, the weight of his decisions, and the losses he had suffered weighing heavily upon him. He wiped his brow with a gloved hand, his thoughts a chaotic mess of grief and anger. Every muscle in his body ached somehow, even with Extremis in play. Still, his body thrummed with energy, and he wanted to just rip and tear his enemies apart¡­ But he forced himself to stand tall, to appear strong and collected. There''s still work to do, he reminded himself. There''s always more work to do.


    The Power stone had changed him, he could feel it. It was like it had carved a new set of veins throughout, or perhaps simply scooped out and hollowed him in a way - a way that was now filling up with power, he could feel it settling, deep into his bones. This¡­ Divinity, filling up the space the Power Stone had left.


    If before he could handle the Power Stone only for a few minutes, he had a feeling he could now use it further¡­ The temptation was strong¡­ To just take it back and wipe away all resistance.


    One glance at Hela, who was eying him almost thoughtfully, ended that brief power fantasy. I am not like her¡­


    He glanced at Hela again, and at Thor, who finally had been able to escape now that Apocalypse was no more. I will have to barter for information from them¡­ He thought with distaste, because divinity was not a subject he had any great knowledge on.


    His eyes scanned the street, taking in the aftermath of the battle. Debris was scattered everywhere, the remnants of once-proud buildings now reduced to rubble. Fires still burned in some places, sending dark plumes of smoke into the sky. He forced himself to look away from the spot where Hope had died, her last moments replaying in his mind like a nightmare he couldn''t wake up from.


    The Egyptian government was dead, Nail had confirmed it. Which in a way would make things easier for him. Cairo would now be his, Egypt, would be his. In a way it already had been, but now he could make it official. His own flying capital in the sky¡­ Although¡­ He continued to scan the broken skyline, it needs some work¡­


    He turned his attention to his team, doing his best to push aside the grief that threatened to overwhelm him. He had to focus. His team needed him to be their leader, to be the pillar they could lean on in this moment of chaos and uncertainty. "You alright?" he asked, directing his question toward Bucky, whose metal arm was bent awkwardly, sparks occasionally flickering from damaged wiring - Bucky having chosen to keep the arm over regenerating a new one out of some stupid penance. Bucky''s face was a stoic mask, but his eyes told a different story - a mix of pain and understanding.


    Justin really didn''t want fucking sympathy right now, but snapping at his own men while in mixed company wouldn''t do, so he kept his cool, simply raising an eyebrow questioningly.


    Bucky nodded slowly, his expression calm despite the discomfort. "I''ll manage," He said quietly. He could see the turmoil in Justin''s eyes, could sense the weight of his grief and rage. Bucky had seen that look before, in the eyes of soldiers who had lost comrades in battle. He knew better than to push, to ask questions. Instead, he waited for orders, ignoring the pleading, almost desperate look from Steve standing a few feet away.


    Justin nodded, appreciating that Bucky didn''t offer platitudes or condolences, just kept things business like, it helped right now. He pointed off toward the distance, his voice firm but weary. "Sinister''s crawled away," He said with distaste, Nail having been keeping an eye on the bastard. "According to overwatch," He said, mindful of their audience, "Black Widow is on the prowl already, but Sinister''s ours. His knees are shot, so he won''t get very far. Go get him." He kept his voice steady, though he could feel the anger bubbling beneath the surface. Sinister was going to pay. For everything.


    He wouldn''t let him die. Dying was easy. No¡­ Sinister would live forever, wishing for death every moment of his miserable existence.


    Bucky glanced in the direction Justin indicated. "And Black Widow?" He asked, his voice neutral. He knew the history between them and wanted clarification on rules of engagement.


    Justin snorted, rubbing his temples with his free hand. "If she has a problem, tell her she''s on an island in the sky with no way off," He replied bluntly. "And to have the balls to come take it up with me." He looked at Bucky, his eyes hard. "We have bigger issues right now. Just get Sinister, no need to be gentle..."


    Bucky nodded again, turning away to carry out his orders. Justin watched him go, then turned back to the rest of his team. His eyes fell on Electro, who lay motionless on the ground, his body still. Yelena was kneeling beside him, her face partially turned away. For a moment, Justin thought he saw tears glistening in her eyes, but when she looked up, her expression was blank, unreadable.


    "What happened to Electro?" Justin demanded, his voice sharp with concern. "Why is he still down? Extremis should have fixed him." He felt a surge of frustration. Not another one. Please, not another one.


    He didn''t particularly like Electro. But he was one of his. And he''d had enough of his people dying. All of this felt like a giant slap from the heavens punishing him for his cowardice. For holding back, for waiting for the right moment, for not being willing to put himself on the line.


    He''d only been able to in the end. When he''d already lost¡­ Too much.


    Yelena shook her head, her voice steady but tinged with something he couldn''t quite identify. "We don''t know," She said flatly. "Apocalypse hit him with some kind of power or effect, and he went down. He hasn''t moved since."


    Justin rubbed his brow, feeling the weight of exhaustion settling over him like a heavy cloak. "Quarantine him," He ordered flatly. "Scorpion, guard him until overwatch can get a team here." His voice was firm, leaving no room for argument. They couldn''t afford to take any chances. If there was any possibility that Apocalypse had left some sort of contingency, they had to be prepared.


    Frank nodded, moving to take up position near Electro, his weapons still hot, his sensors all keeping an eye on all the non Hammer personnel on site. Yelena sighed, standing up and brushing dust off her pants. "You think he might be compromised?" She asked, her tone carefully neutral.


    In a way, Yelena sounded like Justin, forcing herself to feel one way to avoid falling apart, focusing on the job, pushing everything else until later. Justin couldn''t offer her comfort, not here, not now. Maybe not ever. Not when he knew it was his fault. If I had gone for the power stone immediately¡­


    Justin''s expression hardened, as he threw away all useless thoughts and focused on the now. "I don''t think anything," He replied tersely. "I''m just not risking Apocalypse somehow seeing a chance he might lose and having burrowed a backup into Electro''s skull. He kept pulling powers out of his ass. I can''t risk it." His mind was already racing with possibilities, with worst-case scenarios. If they couldn''t find out what was wrong conclusively, if there was even a hint of him being compromised, Electro would have to be euthanized. It wasn''t a choice he wanted to make, but he couldn''t let Apocalypse come back. Not after everything.


    Not with how dangerous he''d been.


    He''d been preparing for Loki for fucks sake, not an enemy that made Thanos seem underwhelming.


    "Justin, I need to speak with you," A voice cut through his thoughts, interrupting him. It was Captain America¡­ Well the first one anyway. He was stepping forward, his face a mixture of concern and something else - a hint of pity, maybe, or perhaps it was disappointment. Justin couldn''t tell, and frankly, he didn''t care.


    Justin cocked his head, his eyes narrowing at Steve Rogers. "It''s Mister Hammer or sir, to you, soldier," He snapped, his patience wearing thin. He didn''t have time for this, not now. But if the soldier out of time was going to force the issue, he''d make the Avengers regret it, they didn''t know who they were dealing with it seemed. He''d educate them¡­


    Captain America''s expression shifted, his lips thinning as he frowned. "You''re not my superior, Mister Hammer," He replied, his voice calm but firm.


    Justin sneered, his frustration boiling over. "On the contrary, I''m empowered by the President of the United States to take charge of any U.S. forces in my and my team''s vicinity during a major powered incident, terrorist attack, or alien invasion," He retorted. "That includes you, even if you''re technically a deserter..."


    Captain America''s face darkened at the accusation, his shoulders squaring as he prepared to argue. "Son, you don''t seem to know your history -" He began, his tone patronizing.


    "Don''t call me son," Justin interrupted coldly, his voice laced with venom, even as Yelena eyed the man with rage in her eyes, fingering her gun. "You deserted the moment Fury got you out of the ice, Mister Rogers. When you decided to follow a man wanted and convicted for treason by the American government. When you hid away for a year with said man, in the hands of the terrorists that committed genocide, nuked Wakanda, and murdered thousands of American and allied soldiers." His words were sharp, biting, each one a carefully aimed barb.


    He was well aware of the camera, even if the Captain seemingly was not - or was stupid enough to think it didn''t matter.


    Captain America looked stricken, his expression one of shock and dismay. "It''s not like that," He protested, his voice faltering. "And Fury didn''t get a trial by his peers. He was persecuted and chased away, he''s fighting the good fight still, even with being unjustly accused."


    Justin gave him a look of utter disdain, the kind of look one might give a particularly dense bratty child. He was glad the camera drone was rolling, capturing every moment, every word. "He was tried in absentia," He said slowly, as if explaining to someone particularly slow. "Because he ran," He stressed. "Not exactly an innocent man''s behavior, let alone what he did afterward with you and Mr. Genocide." His gaze shifted pointedly to Namor, who stood not far behind Captain America, his arms broken but his entire mien one of sneering contempt for those around him.


    Props to Fury, it does take some skill to get such an obvious asshole to join with his Avengers and dance to his tune. Fury probably threatened him with what the world would do to him if he didn''t, Justin thought, inwardly shaking his head at the pointlessness of it all. America wouldn''t forget. The world wouldn''t forget. Vibranium might pay off any actual consequences - but the families of the dead would never forgive.


    And Fury had given Justin just the weak point needed to utterly shatter the public perception of the Avengers in their first outing. If their poor performance hadn''t already¡­


    Namor sneered at him, his voice filled with contempt. "A surface dweller does not have the right to judge me. Talokan is beyond your ways."


    Talokan? Not Atlantis. Weird, but who cares, I''m beyond some fish fucker. Justin thought with derision.


    "Even with no arms, I am more than you can handle," He tilted his head arrogantly, a challenging smirk on his face, "I am Namor, ruler of Talokan, of the sea itself, an Avenger¡­ Who are you to stand before me?"


    Justin wasn''t the only one giving him absolutely dry looks at that particular arrogance. Namor had just seen what happened, right? One of the X-Men even let out a short laugh, shaking his head at the fish king.


    "Brock, stun shot, then bag and tag him," Justin said without hesitation. He was done with this conversation, done with the posturing. Namor had to be dealt with - the world was watching. Brock complied eagerly, his Vulture armor whirring to life as he fired a stun shot at Namor. The first shot wasn''t enough to bring him down, but after several more, Namor finally fell, his body convulsing as the electric shocks coursed through him.


    The man had been so unprepared for the sudden action he hadn''t even tried to dodge, his face almost slack in shock, especially as none of his ''allies'' stepped in.


    Captain America looked on, his expression a mix of frustration and helplessness. "That wasn''t necessary," He said quietly, shaking his head. "He came to fight for the world."


    Justin laughed, a cold, bitter sound. "What a ridiculous notion, Mr. Rogers," He replied. "So if the Red Skull had shown up to fight on our side, would you have forgiven his sins? Some sins don''t wash away!" He could see the way Captain America blanched at the comparison, could see the moral dilemma written all over his face.


    Captain America floundered for a moment, searching for a response that wouldn''t condemn Namor. "You will tell me where Fury is, Mr. Rogers - or you''ll tell the American government, but you will talk¡­" Justin continued, pressing the advantage. "Because he is an international fugitive. Whatever he said to you is a lie. You think it''s a coincidence that he out of all people found you suddenly?"


    By then, Black Widow returned, her expression tight and annoyed. Hawkeye dragged Iron Man forward, the malfunctioning armor clanking loudly as it scraped against the ground. Black Widow''s eyes darted to Justin, her lips pressed into a thin line. Justin noticed the frustration etched on her face, which gave him a grim sense of satisfaction. It meant Bucky had Sinister, and that was one less problem to deal with right now.


    Justin turned his attention to the new arrivals. "All of you," He began, pausing as his gaze shifted between the motley group of Avengers before him. "What''s your name again, anyway?"


    "The Avengers," Captain America responded proudly, despite the tense situation. He''d clearly been drinking Fury''s kool aid heavily the past year.


    Justin raised an eyebrow, feigning incredulity. He put a hand over his face and shook his head theatrically. "Yes, very heroic. Instead of the Defenders or something sensible, you''re instead the ones avenging a situation you couldn''t stop," He said with disdain. "Fury isn''t even trying to say you''re not his weapon against the world." You''re making this too easy, Cap.


    "Careful now, Hammer," Hawkeye growled out, taking a step forward. "If anyone''s a threat here it is you."


    Oh my, and here I thought Cap was foolish, really Barton? Right now?


    Barton might have survived Apocalypse, but with the way Yelena was eyeing him, he wouldn''t survive much longer. The worried look in Black Widow''s eyes as she stepped up to Barton and laid a hand on his shoulder said it all, she knew exactly what her sister was thinking.


    Justin shot him a deadpan look in the end. "Really, Archer, or... Whatever you''re supposed to be," He said condescendingly. "Fury is revealed as a traitor and is on the run, and he just so happens to stumble upon Captain America in the Arctic - the last known location we knew of for Fury before he disappeared off our radar. The Arctic where Stark Industries has been searching for Captain America for over 50 years, paid for by Howard Stark. Why, it''s almost like he knew exactly where soldier boy was stashed, and was keeping him for a rainy day for insurance - for legitimacy."


    The accusation hung in the air, a mixture of truth and fabrication designed to sow doubt. Captain America still looked unconvinced, his lips thinning in frustration. "You don''t know that," He muttered, but it was a weak rebuttal, lacking conviction.


    Justin seized the moment, pressing harder. "Oh? And what did Fury do after somehow finding you and somehow reviving you? Did he step out and proclaim you lived again? Or did he hide you away for only his own benefit, while also apparently allying with the same people who genocided a country?" His voice was sharp, almost accusing."The question must be asked¡­ Did Fury really fail to utilize SHIELD to stop the bombings¡­ Or were they already his allies back then?"


    He cut himself off with a dismissive wave of his hand. "It doesn''t matter. You can all answer the government''s questions about it. You''re all under arrest under the authority granted to me and the H.A.M.M.E.R team by the President of the United States."


    The tension in the air thickened. The Avengers stiffened, their eyes darting around, assessing the situation. Captain America readied his shield, his jaw clenched. Hawkeye pulled back on his bow, an arrow nocked and ready. Iron Man, still prone, managed a weak protest from his suit. "Hey, I literally just came along. I didn''t know about any of this! New recruit here, definitely not on the genocide boat, cut me a break!"


    Justin really had no idea how Tony even got involved with this, he kept enough of a track of the man to know he hadn''t been hiding under the sea. More Fury manipulations surely.


    Barton glared down at the useless Iron Man armor, "Gonna roll over just like that?" He bit out.


    Tony was undaunted, "...Don''t drop the soap in your new accommodations, Birdman, I''m not going up on the block for genocide¡­"


    "Tony, no one''s going to be charged with genocide." Black Widow soothed, her expression closed off, eyes flicking back towards Yelena whenever she thought the other woman wasn''t looking.


    Tony let out a disbelieving snort, "I don''t know how I ever let Fury convince me any of you were intelligent¡­"


    Justin rolled his eyes, unamused. The Avengers everybody¡­ "As upstanding heroes," He said with a hint of sarcasm, "I will not bind you. You will all simply come with us on your own cognizance to answer to the U.S. government. They can decide whether you''re innocent or not. I am just doing my duty." He turned towards Hawkeye, giving him a mocking smile as he eyed the bow and arrow. "And the only reason you''re not snoring like Mr. Genocide over there is that I find your little stick and string toy cute, and as a complete and utter non-threat, there''s no reason to take you down."


    Tony, ever the comedian, quipped, "Ouch, okay, I''ll take handcuffs rather than those kinds of burns, Justin, buddy, my man, bestest bud." God, he''s even more annoying when he''s useless¡­ Wait until he finds out about Rhodes.. Is it treason to kill a four star general?


    "So, Mr. Rogers, will you comply with the officer of the United States government that stands before you?" Justin said, ignoring Tony''s attempt at humor, knowing he''d be singing a different tune shortly. "Or are you truly a deserter?"


    Captain America''s face tightened, frustration clear in every line of his expression. He was trapped, and he knew it. The weight of the situation bore down on him, the consequences of his actions now a visible burden. "You''re not leaving us much choice," He said quietly, his voice resigned.


    Hawkeye let out a frustrated curse. "Are you serious with this bullshit?"


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his tone condescending. "Do you seriously not know the laws? Aiding and abetting at minimum, considering Fury''s conviction for treason. I''d suggest getting a good lawyer." Not that they''ll be convicted anyway¡­


    He didn''t intend for that anyway, this was simply an absolute public reputation coup. The camera had already caught him and his team doing what no one else could do. And that was after they also dealt with New York. Now the Avengers were brushed with more then incompetence - with genocide, treason, desertion.


    Justin couldn''t have done this better if he''d written out a script and hired actors to do the job. They were practically handing him this.


    As the Avengers processed the reality of their situation, the X-Men, who had been standing silently to the side, watching the exchange with a mix of concern and exhaustion, stepped forward. Jean Grey, her face determined despite the inner turmoil, moved closer to Captain America and Justin, her gaze intense.


    "The X-Men stand with Hammer," She said softly, her voice steady but with an underlying tension. "Don''t try anything, Captain, stand down..."


    Notably, it was Jean stepping forward and taking charge, not Xavier.


    Hela, who''d just been watching everything lazily, smirked nastily, "I like this one." She purred, pointing at Justin with a blade, eyes sliding over to Steve, "Do as he says." She ordered, smirk widening like she was begging him to disobey, and give her an excuse.


    Great¡­ Justin thought, sending a sheepish Thor a glare, Just the person I want supporting me¡­


    Captain America glanced around, frustration clear in his eyes. His gaze settled on Black Widow, who simply raised an eyebrow and gave a small shrug, her expression noncommittal.


    "Avengers, stand down," He said firmly, acknowledging the lack of options.


    Tony''s voice broke the tense silence. "If I could stand up, I''d definitely stand down, Cap!"


    Justin sighed, gesturing toward Tony''s battered suit. "Whiplash, cut him out of there, will you?" And I will never let you forget that even Barton did more in this fight than you, Tony¡­


    He just knew memes would follow the man for the rest of his life, he had not covered himself in glory here.


    Vanko chuckled darkly. "Da, with pleasure. Great Tony Stark, more useless than even Archer." A buzzsaw slid out of the arm of his armor, Vanko continuing to chuckle darkly, the sound echoing through his speakers, taking on an electronic and menacing quality. "No need all appendages, da?"


    "Hey..." Tony protested weakly, but there was a resigned humor in his voice, recognizing the futility of his situation. And despite everything, Vanko was probably the only person on the field Tony would trust to actually know what he was doing.


    As Vanko moved to assist Tony, Justin turned away, motioning for Yelena to keep an eye on the Avengers. Jean Grey, surprisingly, followed him as he stepped away from the group. He could feel Xavier''s eyes on him, but he felt he couldn''t care less anymore.


    With Magneto killing Domino, and Xavier proving he''s still a mind raping bastard, Justin didn''t have much time for the ''leaders'' anymore. More Metahumans followed him now anyway, the dinosaurs could go fossilize now and let him create his new world order.


    Justin paused at Jean''s approach, looking at her with a mix of curiosity and irritation. "Can I do something for you?" He asked, his voice edged with fatigue. He was careful not to let his gaze drift to the spot where Hope had died. A message to Nail ensured the camera drone was hacked and shut down - now that the Avengers had been properly humiliated.


    Jean gave him a sympathetic look, her voice calm. "You''re our ride out of here, sir, and we also need medical attention," She pointed out, her tone pragmatic.


    Justin ran a hand through his hair, nodding. "Help is on the way," He said, his voice measured. "Although I will be taking Magneto into custody..." The Master of Magnetism was unconscious and had all his limbs broken, there would never be a better time¡­ Although the limbs had already healed...


    For revenge, for removing a possible future threat, to ensure the one man that knew Justin had some future knowledge wasn''t able to share it¡­ And lastly, Magneto would know the information on where they''d been. This¡­ Savage Land. As would Sinister. A whole new land for Hammer industries to exploit, with sole access.


    Having Magneto would also be great bait to snare Mystique as well, who was likely still mind controlled.


    Jean''s expression tightened, a flicker of conflict crossing her face. "The Professor won''t like that..." She murmured, glancing over at Xavier, who was being supported by his remaining X-Men, even if some of them were not looking overly happy about it. Logan seemed the only one that was actually arguing with Xavier though.


    Justin eyed her shrewdly. "His opinion doesn''t matter as much to me anymore," He replied, his tone blunt. "As I suspect is the feeling among many of your cohorts." He switched his gaze to where Logan snarled something at Xavier and then stomped away.


    Beast stood alone, leaning against a broken wall, looking lost. Justin sent a mental note to Nail to contact the man and offer him a place. While he wouldn''t want him involved with sensitive research again, the man was too morally uptight for it - there were plenty of positions that wouldn''t require him to know about the darker side of Hammer Industries.


    Jean winced, her lips pressing together. "I..." She began, but seemed to falter, lost for words.


    Justin took the moment to send silent messages to Nail, coordinating the next steps. He looked back at Jean. "I''ve sent messages. Cyclops and Storm will both be receiving Extremis to ensure they heal fully. The rest of you are not injured to an extent that requires it. Although if you ever want to join my team..."


    Jean smiled weakly, appreciating the offer. "Thank you for the offer... I''ll think about it. And thank you for Scott and Ororo, truly."


    Justin waved it away dismissively. "Don''t worry about it, and if joining the team is too far a step, you could always join Storm in UNESCO." He offered.


    Jean looked thoughtful, a small, genuine smile playing at her lips. "That... I''ll think about it," she promised, her tone more sincere this time.


    Justin nodded, watching as she turned to head back toward her team. He finally had a moment to himself, surveying the scene, the weight of everything pressing down on him. He itched to get his hands on Sinister, to make him pay for everything that had happened, but there were still things that needed to be cleaned up first.


    "Nail," He said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. "Status of the compound?"


    Nail''s response was immediate, her tone calm and efficient as always. "The Cairo compound has sustained minimal damage due to being on the opposite side of the main battleground."


    It had been built to withstand even an alien invasion popping by, so it was nice to see some of that had worked out.


    "Good," Justin muttered, running a hand through his hair again. "Start search and rescue operations. Bring all Cairo civilians still alive into the compound courtyard. Provide Panacea, food, and water. Ready them for evacuation." The whole city will need to be rebuilt, no need to keep the civilians here¡­


    "Affirmative," Nail responded. The sad fact, something she''d already reported, was that the compound being used as triage would actually work. A city of over 8 million people¡­ Reduced to less than a hundred thousand. The first beam of power, then the lava eruption, then lifting the city and spinning it, crushing the infrastructure - the civilians all crushed or tossed off the flying island¡­ The compound had been built harder, it had survived - the only thing in Cairo that wasn''t crushed.


    Millions died, unseen, unnoticed, as the Heroes all fought Apocalypse. With the dead in New York, today would cross the 10 million dead mark - In one attack.


    Justin closed his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath. He felt the weight of everything he had done, everything he still needed to do. The grief and rage still simmered just beneath the surface, but he knew he couldn''t afford to let them take over. Not now. There was too much at stake, too much left to do.


    The world was still watching, still waiting for answers. And Justin Hammer was going to give them those answers, no matter what it took. He looked around at the shattered remains of Cairo, at the people still moving, still fighting, still surviving.


    There''s always more work to do, he reminded himself again. Always.


    <hr>


    The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    Cairo, Hammer industries compound.


    Justin sat in his office, still clad in his black and gold armor, the weight of his thoughts heavier than the Vibranium encasing him. His helmet lay discarded on the table, his eyes fixed on a spot on the wall. His gaze was unfocused, lost in a swirl of emotions that he couldn''t quite manage. Around him, the muted sounds of Hammer Industries'' rescue operations filled the room. Voices barked orders over comms, machinery whirred as rubble was moved, and the distant rumble of engines echoed through the walls. Cairo was still in chaos, even three hours after the battle had ended, but inside this room, everything felt eerily still.


    For the past three hours, Justin had been bombarded with calls - world leaders, SHIELD, the World Security Council, and even the Mandarin. Each conversation felt more exhausting than the last. He had to explain the situation, the status of Cairo, and, most importantly, that Magneto and Sinister were now his prisoners. No one had dared argue with him too much, after his display of power, though he could sense the underlying tension and hesitation in their voices. For now, they would concede that Magneto and Sinister were his responsibility. The world had seen what he could do - no one was eager to push him any further.


    Yet.


    His bet lay on the Mandarin making the next move. But that was future him''s problem.


    He leaned back in his chair, his eyes closing momentarily. The image of Cairo, torn apart and lifted into the sky by Apocalypse, flashed in his mind. He could still hear the bastard''s voice, feel the ground tremble beneath his feet as the battle raged on - as short as his contribution had been. And then there was Hope, her face filled with fear and regret, her final moments playing over and over again in his head.


    She''d apologized to him.


    In her final moments, she''d apologized to him. When his choice was what killed her. He should have just kept her locked up, feelings be damned. Since when did he ever listen to his heart anyway?


    He exhaled slowly, I''ve¡­ Changed¡­ He was forced to acknowledge. He was supposed to be a ruthless businessman and villain. He''d murdered thousands for his goals.


    So why¡­ Why did he care so much! Domino¡­ Hope¡­ Kaecillius, even Electro¡­ Why did he care!


    He switched tracks, not wanting to go there, not wanting to probe his feelings further. The grief was too fresh.


    His mind turned to Thor and Hela which were another problem for him. They were being housed in one of the Hammer Industries buildings in the compound, waiting for further instructions. Thor had seemed almost relieved to not be handily kicked off the planet for his stunt. Hela, on the other hand, had been a wildcard that was now going to give him a massive headache. Many world leaders were now lauding her efforts during the battle, unaware of how truly unstable she was. It was yet another headache Justin knew he would have to address later. He had bluntly told both of them to stay out of the way until everything was dealt with, but he knew that was a temporary fix at best. The whole Asgard situation had become infinitely more complicated with Hela now seen as a potential ally by those who didn''t understand the depths of her madness.


    With her already on the planet. He now saw no real way to exclude her from the negotiations with Asgard. All that remained was forcing Thor to pay dearly for it. He was going to get his pound of flesh from Asgard for them dumping Odin''s bad parenting in his lap.


    A sound at the doorway pulled him from his thoughts. He didn''t need to turn to know who it was. He heard the familiar footsteps pause, then continue, growing closer until he felt a hand running gently through his hair. Yelena. Her touch was comforting, but even that wasn''t enough to pull him fully out of the dark spiral his mind was in.


    "Done all of the kiss and make up routine then?" He asked, his voice rough, still staring at the wall. He was referring to the time she''d spent talking with her sister, Natasha Romanoff, after everything had calmed down. It had been the first time in years that Yelena and Natasha had seen each other, and the tension was palpable, both serving different sides.


    Especially since Justin had put the woman under arrest. Not to mention the whole¡­ Fucked the both of them thing. He spitefully hoped Yelena had told Natasha that Justin considered her better in bed.


    Yelena sighed softly, her fingers continuing to stroke his hair. "We don''t agree on some things," She said quietly, "But it was... Nice to see Natasha again. It''s been too long."


    "Not mad at me for arresting her?" He asked, his tone a mix of bitterness and exhaustion. He knew he''d only done it to tarnish the Avengers'' name, to paint them as untrustworthy in the eyes of the world, but he also knew how much Yelena valued her sister, no matter their differences.


    She snorted lightly, the sound tinged with a mix of exasperation and resignation. "I know you did that to tar the Avengers'' name," She said, as always the most intune with his intentions of his people. "You know they''ll all get off. You''re not actually imprisoning them."


    "True enough," Justin sighed, rubbing his eyes with the back of his hand. "They did make it terribly easy for me, though." It was an unfortunate reality that even Namor, who had caused so much destruction, would likely get a pass. The threat Apocalypse posed had been so immense that even minimal help was being lauded by the world. Vibranium was a resource the world leaders couldn''t ignore, and Namor''s involvement, however minor, meant he would probably just face a very heavy fine. Paid in Vibranium, of course.


    Money talked. No one knew that better than Justin.


    Fury was fucked though. The ''heroes'' actually fought, and would get a pass, although the world wouldn''t forget what Justin had said.


    Fury¡­ Fury would not get that chance.


    "They''ll need you soon to transport them to America," Yelena said hesitantly. She leaned her cheek against the top of his head, her hand sliding down to gently stroke his cheek. It was a tender gesture, one that usually would have brought him some comfort. But now, it only reminded him of everything he''d lost.


    "Me... Yes... Because I got Kaecillius killed. Domino... Hope..." Justin''s voice was thick with bitterness, his mind drifting back to the horrors of the day, the choices he''d made that had led to so much loss. All preventable, if he''d only been wiser, or more cold hearted.


    If he''d been the him of two years ago, they wouldn''t have died¡­


    Yelena tried to comfort him, her voice gentle but firm. "They all knew the risks, Justin. They died saving the world. It wasn''t your fault. The enemy was just too strong, you couldn''t have changed that."


    But Justin wasn''t listening. His mind was elsewhere, muttering to himself in a low, almost broken tone, "Where was the Ancient One?" With the Time Stone, she could have stopped Apocalypse without all of this¡­


    Almost as if summoned by his words, a portal suddenly opened in front of them, swirling with bright, orange light. The Ancient One stepped out, her expression calm, a sympathetic smile on her face. Her robes flowed around her as if caught in a gentle breeze, her hands folded neatly in front of her. "I only did what I had to do," She said softly, her voice almost a whisper against the chaos outside.


    Justin snapped up to his feet, rage boiling over in an instant. Yelena pivoted to his side, her weapon drawn and aimed directly at the Ancient One. "Where the hell were you?" He demanded, his voice a low growl, barely restrained fury radiating off him.


    The Ancient One sighed, her serene composure unbroken even in the face of Justin''s anger. She kept her hands folded within her robe sleeves, her expression unchanged. "You may not understand, and you will hate me for it, Justin," She began, her tone even, "But I only did what was necessary."


    Justin could feel the power inside him building again, his rage fueling it. His eyes began to glow, a bright blue light seeping out from behind his eyelids. "And what was necessary?" He demanded, his fists clenched so tightly that his knuckles were turning white.


    "You," She said simply, her gaze steady and unflinching.


    He blinked, taken aback. "Me?" He echoed, not understanding. His voice was harsh, confusion mingling with his anger.


    The Ancient One nodded slowly, taking a step closer, but still keeping a respectful distance. "You''ve changed this world so much, Justin. The trajectory of every timeline has been altered by your actions, the very timeline of the world. But you needed an impetus, a reason to grow strong enough for the future, because power breeds conflict, dominance breeds rebellion."


    The words cut through Justin like a knife, and for a moment, all he could feel was the utter hate that exploded from him. Yelena gasped as she was forced to step back from his side, the energy emanating from him pushing her away. His veins glowed so brightly that it was visible through his armor. "You knew they''d die!" He roared, his voice shaking with fury. Only the thought that he might still need her stopped him from attacking outright. He needed the Time Stone. He couldn''t burn this bridge completely. Not yet.


    The Ancient One''s expression softened, though there was a hint of sadness in her eyes. "I knew you needed a reason," She said gently. "Something to push you to take risks, to gamble it all. If you hadn''t lost Domino, you would have waited too long. Apocalypse would have killed the Avengers and X-Men and left Egypt. You would have been forced into an orbital bombardment, still trying to play it safe. It would have escalated from there."


    "You will fix it," Justin snarled, stepping forward, his body trembling with rage. "The Time Stone. FIX IT!"


    She smiled enigmatically, her gaze unwavering. "It can''t be undone," She said softly, but there was no room for argument in her voice.


    Justin''s anger spiked, and he took another step toward her, his hand twitching as if ready to strike. "Don''t give me that mystical bullshit! You think I''m going to accept this? Hope -"


    The Ancient One cut him off with a slight shake of her head. "You''re already changing, Justin," She said quietly. "Look around you. This world has already been altered by your presence. But you needed something to drive you. To push you to your limits. To make you take that final step."


    Before Justin could respond, she stepped aside, a subtle gesture with one hand. From behind her, two figures emerged from the portal - Domino and Kaecillius. They looked shaken but alive, their faces pale and sorrowful. But they were breathing, and they were standing.


    Justin''s anger was immediately replaced by shock, his rage dissipating as he took in the sight of his allies. "Domino... Kaecillius?" He murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. What¡­ What is going on!?


    Domino offered a half-smile, subdued but relieved. "Hey, boss," She said quietly, her voice tinged with emotion. "Nice to know you''d miss me."


    "How...?" Justin''s voice trailed off, his mind struggling to process what he was seeing.


    Domino grimaced, wincing slightly as she shifted her weight. "Thought for sure we were dead," She admitted. "My legs got crushed, and I thought that was it," Domino continued, her voice steady but filled with a raw edge. "But then my luck kicked in again. A piece of the metal buckled, just for a second, giving us enough of a gap. It bought us time, just enough for Kaecillius to pull us into the Mirror Dimension."


    Kaecillius nodded, his face marked with fatigue but determination in his eyes. "It was a close call. Too close. But once inside, we were safe - well, safe from the physical destruction, at least." His eyes slide to the Ancient One, bitterness clear.


    Justin''s mind raced as he processed this information. They had survived, hidden away in the Mirror Dimension, a place outside of the normal rules of reality. Relief flooded through him, mixing with anger as he turned his gaze back to the Ancient One. "And why didn''t you let them out sooner?" He demanded, his voice sharp. Cottoning on immediately that the Ancient One had been waiting for them, and had forced them to remain.


    Domino and Kaecillius both glared at the Ancient One. She met their gaze with a calm, almost sad smile. "You needed a reason," She reiterated softly.


    Justin felt a wave of conflicting emotions crash over him. Relief that Domino and Kaecillius were alive, anger at the Ancient One for her manipulations, and a deep, aching grief that Hope had not been saved. His fists clenched again, but this time he kept his anger in check. He needed answers, and lashing out wouldn''t get them.


    If Kaecillius wasn''t gone¡­ Would I have portaled myself all the way to Morag? Would I have taken myself and my entire team to Apocalypse so quickly? If I wasn''t so angry, and grieving over Domino, would I have thrown myself into the fight?


    He hated that the blasted woman had a point. Even in his rage he could see it, for despite everything else, he was still a very intelligent man, and he refused to discard the truth just because it hurt.


    Yelena, who had been standing frozen with shock, suddenly rushed forward, throwing her arms around Domino. Tears streamed down her face as she buried her head in Domino''s shoulder. "I''m so glad you''re okay," She whispered, her voice choked with emotion in an uncharacteristic display.


    Domino, for once, didn''t have a teasing remark. She simply held Yelena close, her expression softening. "Yeah," She murmured. "Me too."


    As they embraced, Justin''s thoughts shifted back to Hope. He turned to the Ancient One, his voice low and filled with barely restrained fury. "What about Hope?" He asked, the name feeling heavy on his tongue. "What about her? Can she be brought back?"


    The Ancient One''s expression grew solemn, and she slowly shook her head. "That... Happened," She said gently. "It can''t be undone."


    Justin''s frustration boiled over, his fists trembling with the effort of holding himself back. "What do you mean, it can''t be undone? Just use the Time Stone! You owe me!"


    The Ancient One sighed, her face filled with a sadness that seemed almost genuine. "Hope''s death is a fixed point in time, Justin," She explained gently. "Her death has already had a profound effect on you and on the world. It has set in motion events that are crucial for what is to come. Even the Time Stone cannot alter a fixed point."


    The words hit Justin like a punch to the gut. The finality of her statement, the calm certainty in her voice - it was like a door slamming shut, cutting off any hope he might have had of reversing what had happened. His anger surged again, and before he could stop himself, he lunged forward, his armored fist connecting with the Ancient One''s face.


    The impact was solid, the crack of the punch echoing through the room. The Ancient One staggered back, her head snapping to the side, but she remained standing. Blood trickled from her lip, but she didn''t react with anger or surprise. Instead, she simply wiped the blood away with the back of her hand, her expression remaining calm.


    Yelena gasped, stepping back with Domino still in her arms. "Justin, no -" She started, but her voice faltered as she saw the raw pain in his eyes.


    "She didn''t have to die!" Justin shouted, his voice filled with a mixture of rage and anguish. "You could have saved her! You could have saved all of them!"


    The Ancient One straightened, her calm demeanor never wavering. "I could have," She admitted, her voice soft. "But doing so would have changed the course of history in ways you cannot comprehend. Hope''s death... It shapes you, Justin. It prepares you for the challenges that are yet to come."


    "I don''t care about the future!" Justin roared. "I care about my people! About the ones who died today because you sat back and did nothing!"


    The Ancient One''s eyes softened, a hint of sadness crossing her face. "Sometimes, we must allow events to unfold as they are meant to," She said gently. "Even when it causes pain. Even when it seems cruel. But know this, Justin, Hope''s sacrifice was not in vain. It has set in motion a series of events that will shape the future of this world. And you, more than anyone, will play a crucial role in what is to come."


    Justin felt his anger deflate, replaced by a cold, hollow feeling in his chest. He turned away from the Ancient One, unable to look at her anymore. He couldn''t process her words, couldn''t wrap his mind around the idea that Hope''s death was somehow necessary. It felt like a betrayal, like the universe itself was conspiring against him.


    The Universe is wrong¡­


    I''ll find a way.


    <hr>


    Some time later,


    Justin was alone again, Yelena, Domino and Phantazia taking over running the show. Kaecillius portaling the Avengers and X-Men out, back to America.


    His emotions were still raw and he dreaded what he''d have to do.


    Not even a shocked Phantazia running and tackling Domino to the ground upon seeing her had managed to uplift his spirit.


    "Nail¡­" He said slowly, he had no choice now. If Hope¡­ If Hope couldn''t be brought back¡­ Hank Pym was going to be a problem.


    There were three men he never wanted fully motivated to go after him, Tony Stark, Doctor Doom, and Hank Pym. The first was a somewhat ally/rival, the second didn''t exist here, and now Hank Pym had every reason to want him dead. Whether that meant Ultron, or an Ant-Man rampage he didn''t know¡­


    Despite Ant-Man almost being a joke in the MCU, there were few things scarier when you thought of how the suit could actually be used. Forget front line fighting - it''s best purpose was as an assassin.


    "Yes, sir." Nail answered promptly, the Irish brogue somewhat comforting to hear. At least Nail could never die¡­


    "Do we still have a Black Widow inserted in Hank Pym''s company?" He asked, already knowing the answer. Just dragging out the decision, the betrayal of Hope''s memory.


    "Yes, sir."


    "Arrange an accident. Make it look like a heart attack or something," Justin said with a heavy heart, I''m¡­ Sorry, Hope¡­ "Just a grieving father with too much stress, succumbing."


    "It will be done, sir."


    Hank Pym was too dangerous to leave at his back.


    Justin would¡­ He''d ensure Hope''s company wasn''t subsumed into Hammer Industries, he could use Cross as a patsy for now. The man had an Ant-Man suit¡­ He''d¡­ He''d give him the Wasps place on the team in exchange for fealty.


    One day he''d find a way for her to return, give her the company back.


    The Ancient One was wrong.


    Hope''s death did not make him better.


    It only made him harder.


    <hr>


    Later that night, Cairo, Justin''s office.


    Justin sat in his office quietly just thinking over the last day''s events. It was a rare moment of peace amid the chaos of rescue operations in Cairo and managing the fallout of the battle with Apocalypse. Not even Domino and Yelena were near him right now, Justin sending them away, wanting to be alone with his thoughts.


    He couldn''t bring himself to take his armor off just yet, no matter that it was becoming uncomfortable. The weight was a reminder of the choices he had made, of the battle fought and lost. He leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes for a brief moment, allowing himself to take a single, deep breath.


    The air shifted, a cold breeze sweeping through the room, and Justin''s eyes snapped open. Before him, standing with a predatory smirk and eyes alight with a dark, playful glint, was Hela. She leaned casually against the door frame, her arms crossed, a smile playing at her lips. Her presence filled the room like a storm waiting to break.


    Nail, how did you miss this? He sent immediately through the implant, the AI confused, swearing it was still seeing her in her room.


    Fucking Magic¡­ Justin cursed. Get Thor here, NOW!


    "What do you want, Hela?" Justin asked after his instructions were sent off silently, his voice carefully neutral, though he could feel his muscles tensing instinctively. He mentally activated the link to Nail again, sending a rapid message through his neural implant. Domino and Phantazia too, in case she needs to be subdued. He kept his face blank, hiding the sudden surge of adrenaline that shot through him.


    Hela pushed herself off the door frame and began to circle Justin like a panther stalking prey. Her eyes never left his, and her smile widened, a mix of amusement and something darker. "I''ve been very bored for a very long time," She purred, her voice low and silky, yet carrying a dangerous edge. "And that fight earlier¡­ Well, it got my blood flowing again. But now," She paused, her gaze raking over him, "Now I have this little puzzle to figure out."


    Justin''s expression remained carefully blank, though his mind raced. He could feel her eyes boring into him, stripping away the layers of armor and flesh to see what lay beneath. "What do you mean?" He asked cautiously, his voice steady. Inside, he was already preparing himself, the power within him stirring in response to the threat before him.


    Hela''s steps were slow and deliberate as she circled him, her gaze never wavering. "Oh, so many interesting things about you," She mused, her voice taking on a teasing, almost mocking tone. "A warrior, yet not really. An artificer, yet not truly. A god¡­ yet not quite." She stopped in front of him, leaning in close, her breath warm against his skin. "What are you?" She asked, her tone darkly seductive.


    Justin could feel the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. He carefully channeled the newfound power within him, feeling it course through his veins, a dark and potent force that hummed with energy. He could feel the armor''s systems activate, weapons preparing to fire if needed. "Whatever I am," He said, his voice low and firm, "It''s nothing to you. We are not going to have anything to do with each other, Hela."


    Hela threw her head back and laughed, a sound that sent chills down Justin''s spine. "Oh, I can feel you drawing on your power," She said with a grin, her eyes flashing with excitement. "I can feel the hate in your veins, mortal. And I have to say, I kind of like it." She moved faster than he could react, her hand suddenly around his throat, making him regret not wearing his helmet, slamming him back against the wall with a force that cracked the concrete. Before he could fully process what was happening, her lips were on his, capturing his in a fierce, aggressive kiss.


    Justin''s mind screamed in shock. What the fuck!? His hand instinctively shot up, his armored gauntlet pressing against her chest. Without thinking, he fired a repulsor blast, the force of it pushing her away. She was ripped from him, her teeth catching his lower lip and tearing it slightly as she was blasted backward. For a moment, he felt the sting of pain, his lip bleeding, but then Extremis activated, healing the wound almost instantly.


    Justin wiped his mouth, his face a mix of anger and confusion. "You don''t want to do this," He warned, his voice a low growl as he slammed his helmet back on, the HUD flashing to life. His weapons locked onto Hela, targeting her with deadly precision.


    But Hela just laughed, a wild, manic sound. She touched her lips with her fingers, smirking. "Oh, but I do!" She purred, her voice dripping with dark amusement. With a flick of her wrist, blades appeared in her hands, black as night and gleaming with a deadly sharpness. She lunged at him, her movements a blur, fast and fluid, her eyes wide in pure enjoyment.


    Justin barely had time to react. He rocketed to the side, his thrusters firing, sending him skidding across the floor as Hela''s blades sliced through the air where he had been standing just moments before. He fired a volley of miniature missiles from his shoulders, the small projectiles streaking toward her with a high-pitched whine.


    Hela twisted in mid-air, her blades flashing as she cut through the missiles with ease. The explosions rocked the office, but she moved through them with a grace and agility that made it seem like she was dancing through the chaos. She landed on her feet, an excited grin on her face, her eyes locked onto Justin with a predatory gleam. "Is that all you''ve got?" She taunted, her voice filled with dark joy. "And here I thought you were at least a demi-god!"


    Justin''s mind raced as he analyzed the situation. She was fast, too fast, and clearly enjoying herself. He needed to find a way to slow her down, to gain some control over the fight. He fired a burst of energy from his palm, aiming at her legs, trying to knock her off balance. Meanwhile he began calling up his power, not in any way used to it, nor enjoying having to try it in the middle of a battle.


    Hela was ready, her power might not be back, but her battle instincts and experience were amongst the finest in the universe. She dodged the blast with ease, her body moving with a fluidity that was inhuman. She closed the distance between them in the blink of an eye, her blades flashing as she swung at him. Justin barely managed to bring up his arm in time, deflecting the strike with his armor, the force of the blow sending him staggering back.


    She''d nicked the Vibranium! It suddenly became much more important to avoid hits. Especially to vital areas. Yes he had Extremis, but he didn''t want one of those blades inside him. Who knows what else they could do¡­


    "Come on, mortal¡­ Justin, was it?" Hela purred, her voice a seductive whisper even as she smiled too widely. "Don''t tell me this is all you can do. I expected more from you." She moved in again, her blades a blur of motion as she struck at him with relentless precision.


    Justin gritted his teeth, his mind racing as he tried to keep up with her attacks. He fired another repulsor blast, aiming for her torso this time, but she dodged it effortlessly, her movements almost too fast to follow. He felt a surge of frustration and anger, his power flaring up in response. He needed to find a way to turn the tide.


    Frustratingly enough his targeting computer wasn''t able to help, Hela creating some sort of magical effect as she moved forward, creating afterimages that fooled his AI.


    He shifted tactics, launching himself into the air and through the roof with a burst of his thrusters, gaining some distance. He activated the sonic pulse cannons on his arms, firing a rapid series of blasts at Hela. The office was filled with the sound of energy discharges, the walls and floor cracking with the intensity of the blasts.


    Hela laughed as she dodged and weaved through the onslaught, her eyes alight with a wild, feral joy. She seemed to be enjoying the fight, relishing every moment. "Yes, that''s it!" She shouted, her voice filled with exhilaration. "Show me what you''re made of, Justin!" If she was affected by the sonic blasts flying by her, she sure as hell didn''t show it.


    Justin knew he couldn''t keep this up forever, he''d never fought in this armor before his fight with Apocalypse and that wasn''t even a fight. He needed to end this, and quickly. He launched the rest of his micro missiles, while blasting out with one hand, limiting her movement area, while he put full power to thrusters, and flew right at her as she dodged and cut his attacks.


    He concentrated his power inside him, feeling himself start to glow, his fist starting to vibrate as he launched at Hela, flying right through the aftereffects of his own missiles explosions.


    Hela''s eyes widened in surprise as Justin came at her, but she recovered quickly, bringing up her blades to block. The force of Justin''s punch collided with her arms and swords, crushing them and sending her skidding back across the floor. She dug her heels in, literal grooves getting cut in the concrete, slowing her momentum, and then looked up at him with a grin, her eyes flashing with pure excitement. "That''s more like it!" She exclaimed, her voice filled with approval. She licked her lips, "Show me more!"


    To his dismay, she was within moments perfectly fine, and crafting new blades out of her power.


    Justin landed in a crouch, his armor whirring as he prepared for the next attack. But before he could move, Hela was on him again, her blades slicing through the air with deadly intent, half of them not even real, just some sort of illusion. He dodged to the side, narrowly avoiding the strike of the real blades - he could feel them with his power coursing through his veins, even if his AI couldn''t compute which was which - and he fired a full power repulsor blast at her as he got an opening in the middle of her strike and his own dodge. The energy hit her square in the chest, briefly burning her chest armor off, making Justin blink at what he saw, as it sent her flying backward into the wall.


    The impact cracked the concrete, but Hela merely laughed, getting back to her feet with a look of pure exhilaration on her face. "You''re ~fun," She said with a dark chuckle. "I haven''t had this much fun in ages." Her armor grew back, as she smoothed it down with a hand, eyeing him hungrily, "That felt nice."


    Justin felt his frustration mount. "You''re insane!" He shouted, his voice filled with exasperation. "Why the hell are you doing this?"


    Nail, what''s taking so long!?


    Sorry, sir, Thor is hard to get moving, and the others were at the other side of the city. ETA three minutes 12 seconds.


    Hela''s grin widened, her eyes alight with a wild, manic glee. "Because I can," She replied simply, her voice filled with a dangerous edge. She lunged at him again, her blades flashing through the air with deadly precision. This time one superseding it, thrown as a projectile faster than his own blasts.


    Justin ducked under her throw, and then her swing, firing his thrusters to propel himself backwards again, trying to create some distance between them. But Hela was relentless, closing the gap in an instant. She swung her blades at him, and he barely managed to block the strike with his armored forearm again. The force of the blow sent him staggering back, sparks flying as she managed to cut far enough to destroy something in his left arm.


    He quickly regained his footing, launching a counterattack with a rapid series of punches, pulling on his well of power, blue light pouring out of his fists as each hit sent a concussive force emanating from it, cratering the ground and walls behind Hela, as she gritted her teeth and bore the beating, her arms up and crossed before her.


    The energy draw on his new well of power wasn''t something he was used to, and eventually he missed a strike, overextended with the almost earthquake-like blasts he was putting out. Hela immediately took advantage, getting inside his guard.


    Hela dodged effortlessly as he tried to strike her, a smirk playing on her lips. Her movements were fluid, almost like a dance, and she seemed to be enjoying herself, amused by his attempts. Her own fists hammered into him, sending warning signals blaring from his Vibranium armor.


    "You move well for a mortal," Hela teased, her tone dripping with a dark kind of amusement. "But you''re still not fast enough to push me down..."


    Justin, frustrated but focused, steadied himself and launched a series of quick, controlled energy blasts from his working gauntlet. Hela sidestepped them with ease as well, her eyes gleaming with mischief. She seemed more interested in teasing him than actually fighting now. "Why are you so obsessed with me? What do you want?"


    At least with the sudden lull, he was able to get some space between them again, his left arm useless for any further fighting.


    Hela laughed, a dark melodic sound that sent chills down his spine. "You intrigue me, Justin." She said, her voice low and heady with a meaning he couldn''t quite grasp, "A mortal wielding godly power, yet refuses to fully embrace it. You have potential, you have power¡­ But you''re so afraid to use it, why is that?"


    Justin clenched his teeth, his hands tightening into fists, "I''m not like you, Hela¡­ I''m not some bloodthirsty lunatic who gets off on chaos and destruction."


    Hela''s crazy smile widened, her eyes gleaming with excitement, "No, you''re not like me," She agreed, "But have you ever¡­ Tried? Just letting go of your fear, your rules. Conquer yourself, Justin, and then all the world''s, no, the universe''s pleasure - is there for the taking."


    Hela moved suddenly, closing the distance between them in an instant. Justin tried to react but she was too fast, her hand shooting out to grab his wrist, she twisted, forcing him down onto one knee with a strength you''d never think a woman of her slender frame would be capable of. "You''re strong¡­ interesting.. " She said, leaning in close, "But you could be so much more, if you''d only let go of your fear."


    He let his power explode out of him, throwing Hela away, sending her tumbling in the air through the completely demolished office, his entire frame burning in blue flames as he got back to his feet.


    She laughed again, an almost ecstatic wild sound, "Yes, that''s it!" She shouted, somersaulting back to her feet, "That''s the power I want to see!"


    Before Justin could respond, the door burst open, and Thor entered, flanked by Phantazia and Domino. "Hela, that''s enough!" Thor called out firmly. "Leave him be, you''ve done enough damage as is."


    The look both Domino and Phantazia sent Hela promised death, if Justin thought it would stick he''d give the order, this was a headache he didn''t need. Fuck Asgard, and fuck Thor.


    Hela glanced over at her brother, then back at Justin, and with a sigh, she stepped back. "Fine, little weakling king, have it your way," She said, her voice still carrying a hint of amusement. "For now."


    Justin exhaled, relieved but still on edge. He watched as Hela turned to leave, throwing him a final, playful glance. "Until next time, Justin Hammer," She said with a dark grin that held a clear promise.


    Thor approached Justin, giving him a sympathetic smile. "Normally, as a brother, I''d be upset if you and my sister were courting, but given Hela''s¡­ Nature, I can only wish you good luck." He gave Justin an exaggerated thumbs up.


    Justin''s irritation flared. "Thor, you are going to regret this, I will murder you... In the negotiations," He muttered, trying to keep his cool. Tempted to murder you for real¡­ Keep a leash on the damn she-beast you overgrown puppy.


    Thor chuckled, clearly not taking the threat seriously. "I look forward to it!"


    With the tension easing, Justin watched Hela leave, knowing this encounter was likely only the beginning. But at least, for now, the immediate threat had passed.


    And she was going to be stuck on his planet.


    ¡­Fuck.


    <hr>


    Next day, Cairo, Hammer''s compound.


    The sun hung high in the sky over the remnants of Cairo. Rubble and devastation stretched out for miles behind Justin as he stood on a hastily erected stage.


    Despite the devastation, there was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. The world had been waiting for answers, and Justin was here to provide them - in a manner of speaking... Cameras from every major news network were pointed directly at him, capturing every movement, every word. He knew the eyes of the world were on him now, looking for hope, for clarity, for leadership. He had carefully selected the members of the press who were present, ensuring that they were reporters he could count on to ask the right questions, to steer the narrative in the direction he wanted.


    He stood at the podium, his stance confident and commanding, his black and gold armor gleaming in the sunlight. He took a moment to let the silence settle, to let the weight of the moment sink in for everyone present. Then, he began to speak, his voice steady and strong, carrying across the gathered crowd.


    "Yesterday was one of the darkest days in human history," He began, his tone somber, his expression grave. "A day when we faced an enemy unlike any we have ever known. An enemy who sought not just to conquer, but to annihilate, to break our spirit and take from us everything that we hold dear. But we stood our ground. We fought back. And against all odds, we won."


    His words were carefully chosen, each one delivered with a force that made it clear he believed in what he was saying. He paused for a moment, letting the gravity of his words sink in. The crowd was silent, hanging on his every word.


    This was both intended to hammer home how he was the only one capable of saving them, and to give them an outlet for their grief, fear and rage, and point them at a target of his choosing. Swiveling the bullseye away from metahumans.


    "We are humanity," Justin continued, his voice rising with passion. "We are a resilient species, capable of enduring the unthinkable and rising from the ashes stronger than before. We do not give up. We do not surrender. And we do not bow to those who would seek to take away our God-given rights to live and to thrive."


    He let his words linger in the air, the audience captivated by his conviction. He then seamlessly transitioned into the next part of his speech, his voice taking on a sharper edge. "We have faced threats from beyond our world before. We have seen what alien invaders are capable of. And now, we face a new threat, one that has been lurking in the shadows, manipulating us, infiltrating our ranks, and trying to strip us of our humanity."


    Justin took a deep breath, his eyes scanning the crowd as he prepared to drop the bombshell he had been waiting for. "We now know," He declared, lied. "That Apocalypse was not a metahuman, but the leader of an alien sect that has been secretly infiltrating Earth. These aliens, known as the Skrulls, have used their shape-shifting abilities to blend in, to manipulate, and to control. They have been among us for decades, working in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike."


    The crowd erupted into a frenzy, reporters shouting questions all at once, eager to be the first to get a response. Justin raised a hand to quiet them, his expression calm and controlled. He pointed to a reporter in the front row, giving them the floor.


    "So, it was aliens then? That''s been confirmed?" The reporter asked, his voice barely containing his shock and disbelief.


    Justin nodded shortly, keeping his expression stoic. "Yes, it has been confirmed. Apocalypse claimed to be from Earth, to be a metahuman. He did so to sow division between us, to make us forget that human or metahuman, we''re all part of humanity, of Earth. In truth, he was here on Earth, serving as a leader of this alien sect. The Skrulls have been using him to test the waters, to see how far they could push us, to gauge our response, to take our planet. They controlled Magneto with alien technology, using him as a pawn to limit the resistance against Apocalypse and further their own agenda."


    Another reporter, this time a woman with a fierce expression, immediately jumped in with a follow up. "What can you tell us about these Skrulls? Who are they? What do they want?"


    I hope you''re shitting yourself right now, Fury, the one with the hand on the wheel of events will be me - not you!


    Justin took a moment, making sure to keep the tension high before he answered. "The Skrulls," He began, "Are a race of shape-shifting aliens. They have the ability to take on the appearance of anyone they choose, to blend in seamlessly with any population. They have used this ability to infiltrate our world at every level, from the highest echelons of government to the smallest local communities. Their goal is simple - to sow chaos, to create division, and ultimately, to prepare our planet for invasion and subjugation."


    The shock was heavy amongst those standing before him, so heavy that they didn''t even think to ask another question, just staring at him aghast. If he was anyone other than who he was, they wouldn''t even believe him.


    "Apocalypse was not kidding when he claimed he wanted to erase most of humanity, he only lied about the reason why. The Skrulls need a new home planet, and they''ve been promised this one¡­" Justin said darkly. "The billion survivors would have been nothing more then slaves, tilling the fields of our new alien overlords."


    As he spoke, Justin signaled to Yelena, who was standing off to the side, Storm on his other side to signal that metahumans were on their side. Yelena nodded and moved to the edge of the stage, disappearing behind a curtain for a moment. The reporters were now frantically shouting questions, but Justin ignored them, waiting for the perfect moment to reveal his ace. When Yelena returned, she was accompanied by a figure in handcuffs. The reporters fell silent almost immediately, their eyes widening in shock and horror.


    The figure was a Skrull, its green skin and ridged chin making their alien appearance obvious. It walked slowly, its head down, clearly aware of the attention it was receiving and not happy about it. The cameras zoomed in, capturing every detail of its alien appearance. The crowd was stunned into silence, the only sound the whirring of camera shutters and the low hum of a nearby generator.


    Justin allowed the tension to build, letting the press and the world take in the sight of the Skrull before he spoke again. "This," He said, gesturing to the captive, "Is a Skrull. One of the many who have been hiding among us, deceiving us, using us for their own ends."


    He''d simply had one of the Skrulls Fury had sent to infiltrate Hammer industries grabbed for the occasion. This whole mess was the perfect opportunity to both sink Fury beyond recovery, and further condition humanity to the need to stand together against alien threats. With Justin as the logical choice to lead them of course. After all¡­ He''d now stopped two alien invasions.


    The crowd erupted into chaos once more, reporters shouting over one another, their questions blending into an unintelligible roar. Justin waited, a satisfied smile briefly flashing on his face, letting the uproar continue for a few moments longer before raising his hand to silence them once again.


    The Skrull stood quietly, its head bowed, under strict orders to comply. It hadn''t taken much convincing for it to realize it needed to cooperate.


    "You want to know how to identify a Skrull?" Justin asked rhetorically, his voice rising above the din. "Watch closely." He nodded to Yelena, who drew a small knife from her belt and stepped forward. She made a small cut on the Skrull''s arm, and instead of red, its blood was a strange, dark green. A murmur of shock rippled through the crowd.


    Justin then took another knife from Yelena and made a small cut on his own hand, holding it up for everyone to see the red blood that oozed out for a second. Yelena followed suit, doing the same, as did Storm. "We are human," Justin said firmly, his voice filled with authority. "We bleed red. But these creatures - these Skrulls - do not. They are here on Earth, hiding among us, plotting against us. And they are led by one man." His face twisted into a snarl, as he hammered a fist on the podium for effect, "One traitor to humanity, that offered our entire planet to these aliens!"


    He turned to the Skrull, his expression fierce. "Tell them," He commanded. "Tell them who sent you to infiltrate my company. Tell them who is behind this alien conspiracy."


    The Skrull hesitated for a moment, its eyes darting around the crowd, before finally speaking in a reluctant, strained voice. "The Skrulls have operated under Nicholas J. Fury since the 1990s," It confessed. "We were his covert operations team, promised a planet of our own in exchange for our services in making him rise to power."


    It''s even the truth, to a certain extent, Justin thought with hidden amusement.


    The silence that followed was deafening. Even the most seasoned reporters seemed at a loss for words, their faces a mix of shock, disbelief, and horror. It was as if the entire world had been turned upside down in an instant. Then, just as quickly, the crowd exploded into chaos once again, the cacophony of voices rising to a fever pitch.


    Justin ignored the clamor, leaning into the microphone, his expression grave. "We already knew Fury was a dangerous man, convicted of treason as he is, gathering together a team to fight in his name with superpowers, including a genocidal hidden kingdom. But now, with the capture of this Skrull, the curtain has been drawn back on his dark past. He became the leader of SHIELD, sponsored by aliens, using them to infiltrate, to murder, to take over the lives of his enemies for his benefit. And now, when he was on the run, his life on the verge of ruin, he ''created'' a hero team and sent his Skrulls to fight, to bring their champion in what was meant to be pure theater to lift him back as the savior. Only Fury hadn''t expected his heroes would be too weak to beat him. That the Skrulls might chafe under his incompetent leadership and want their promised planet now."


    He paused, his gaze sweeping over the crowd, letting the full weight of his words settle in. "Millions lost," He continued, his voice thick with emotion, focused on the only important loss, "And for what? One man''s obsession with power, his betrayal of humanity to alien parasites. I ask you all, as the one who saved the day, who fought so hard to safeguard humanity - say no more! Refuse to allow this to happen again. Show your bloodied hands to the sky, find these infiltrators, and show Nick Fury that he is a race traitor of the highest order. Hunt him down!"


    Storm and Yelena both stepped up next to him, and he gestured to them, "Human," He gestured to Yelena, "Metahuman!" He gestured to Storm, "We ARE HUMANITY!" He made a sweeping gesture, eyes fierce, "Everything else doesn''t matter, race, sex, creed, mutation. Humanity first! We are all humans, and this¡­ IS OUR PLANET!"


    The crowd erupted again, but this time with a fervor that bordered on hysteria. Reporters were shouting, cameras flashing, and Justin stood tall and unyielding, the perfect picture of a hero who had saved the day, who had exposed a conspiracy, who had given humanity a new enemy to unite against.


    The message was clear.


    Trust in me, I''ll see humanity through it all.


    <hr>

 Strength invites Challenge.

    <hr>


    Secret Military holding facility, Eastern Seaboard, USA.


    The sterile walls of the holding area were suffocating in their blandness. The sound of heavy, steel-reinforced doors clanging shut echoed through the practically empty facility, creating an oppressive atmosphere. Most of the Avengers sat in silence, the air thick with tension and frustration, kept together as they weren''t truly locked up. The table in front of them was cold metal, like everything else in the room, as they waited for the inevitable - a decision that would determine how long they would remain here.


    It was only a matter of what spins could be spun and what costs needed to be paid to get them out of here, lawyers already at it.


    Steve paced back and forth, still in his uniform, another sign they weren''t truly going to be put away, they hadn''t been disarmed. His boot heels were clicking against the hard floor as he paced. His expression was tight, jaw clenched, as he wrestled with the situation they found themselves in.


    "They''re keeping us separated from Namor," Steve muttered, more to himself than anyone else, though the words hung heavy in the room. "I don''t like it. They''re splitting us up, picking us apart piece by piece."


    Tony scoffed from his spot against the wall, arms crossed over his chest. His legs were casually stretched out, but his knuckles were white from the force of his grip. The seemingly relaxed pose was betrayed by the tension in his muscles and the sharp edge to his voice. "Oh, I''m totally fine with keeping Namor frying all by his lonesome, thanks. They can leave King Fish Stick on his own. He''s the one who actually committed genocide. I''d rather not be associated with that mess."


    Natasha, perched in the corner, arms folded, cut him a sidelong glance. "Not helpful, Tony," She said in a calm, chiding tone. Her posture was perfectly still, her face giving no indication of her true feeling. Years of training allowed her to remain composed, yet even she felt the weight of their current predicament.


    They''d lost. Not only badly. But publicly.


    Tony let out a bitter laugh, pushing off the wall and rolling his shoulders. "Helpful? Why bother? I don''t even know any of you outside of seeing your names on SHIELD files or ancient history documentaries." He turned toward Natasha with a leer, raising an eyebrow. "Though I do know of you, Romanoff. Hell, the whole world knows you - especially from that little... Video with Hammer you had floating around a few years back. Bored in here? How about a repeat performance, just to pass the time?"


    Clint, who had been slumped against his chair with his arms folded, suddenly shot up. He shoved Tony with enough force to send him back a step. His face was tight with anger, eyes narrowing as he held Tony''s gaze.


    "Hey. Don''t go there," Clint growled. His voice was low, dangerous.


    Tony, for all his show of bravado, looked slightly surprised by the sudden aggression. Natasha, on the other hand, didn''t even flinch. She remained still, her expression unreadable, though her green eyes flickered with a brief glint of... Something. Disdain, maybe. Indifference, more likely.


    "Relax, Barton. I was only half serious, I''ve got Pepper already¡­" Tony muttered, his smirk wavering slightly. He shook Clint''s hand off his shoulder as he stepped away, eyes flicking back to Natasha. "Fine. Let''s drop the small talk. We have bigger problems."


    The room settled into an uneasy silence. Steve continued to pace, oblivious to the exchange, his thoughts elsewhere.


    "Where''s Banner? Why haven''t they brought him in with us?" Steve muttered, clearly agitated. His hands flexed open and closed at his sides as he walked back and forth, gaze flicking to the door, the windows, the walls - anywhere but at the others. He couldn''t sit still. He couldn''t focus. Ever since he''d seen Bucky again, a jittery, uncomfortable tension had settled deep into his bones. Seeing his old friend - really seeing him, not just knowing he was alive - had shaken him. Brought up too many unresolved feelings.


    Fury had been right. Hammer had brainwashed him, why else would Bucky just walk away like that?


    Tony looked up, offering a humorless chuckle, though his eyes were sharp. "If he''s got any sense, he''s far, far away from here." His voice turned hard, the bitterness unmistakable. "If he hasn''t been launched into space, that is. Apocalypse wasn''t exactly gentle¡­"


    Tony''s gaze shifted to Steve, watching as he continued to pace. There was something in Tony''s expression - something calculating beneath the sarcasm. Something brewing. He was a man of action, just like Steve, but where Steve carried the burden of what he believed was honor and duty, Tony was brimming with barely restrained anger.


    The silence in the room deepened as Tony''s eyes flashed with something manic. He suddenly straightened, leaning forward with a burst of energy, his voice sharp. "You know what? Let''s talk about the whole genocide thing, huh? Shall we?" Tony''s voice cut through the tension like a blade, the accusation hanging in the air.


    Clint frowned, but Tony wasn''t done.


    "Did you know?" Tony''s eyes moved between them, his tone becoming more pointed. "Did you all know about Namor? About Wakanda? About the fact that we''re all sitting here right now because of the guy responsible for the worst mass murder since - hell, since Hitler?"


    He splayed his arms out, looking between the others, "It kind of seems like the sort of thing you tell the new guy, amirite?"


    The others exchanged glances. Steve''s jaw tightened. He turned, crossing his arms and facing away from Tony. His silence was an answer in itself. The two spies - Natasha and Clint - remained still, their faces revealing nothing. Cold. Detached. They were trained for this, after all. But Tony could see through it. He scoffed, disgusted.


    "I fell for Fury''s spiel. Hook, line, and sinker, thought I was doing my part as a hero... So yeah, I take some of the blame. But what the hell did Fury tell you guys to make this okay? What did he say that made mass murder acceptable?"


    Natasha''s eyes flickered, and she shook her head slowly. "Hammer is taking over the world," She said flatly. "A lot can be forgiven when we''re fighting for something bigger, something important."


    Steve sighed, hanging his head, his voice strained. "Democracy is dying, Tony, Fury realized this. We need to fight for it. And Namor was willing to help."


    Tony''s laughter exploded into the room, short and sharp. He turned, pacing with frantic energy, his hands running through his hair as he shook his head in disbelief. "Oh, wait - wait - you''re serious?" He stopped and looked at them, his expression incredulous. "Let me laugh harder!"


    He threw his hands in the air, his laughter bouncing off the walls of the holding area. The others watched him warily, their expressions neutral, though Clint''s jaw was clenched tightly, and Steve''s hands were balled into fists at his sides.


    Tony''s laughter faded, his expression turning dark as he finally spoke again, his voice laced with sarcasm and disbelief. "Let me get this straight. You''re all using a king - a monarch - a tyrant responsible for the worst mass murder in recent history - to fight for democracy? Does no one else see the problem here? How the hell did Banner get on board with this? He at least should have had some brain cells left over¡­"


    "Fury promised him a cure," Steve said quietly, his voice clipped, as though forcing the words out. "He wasn''t happy with some of what we had to do, but he understood the necessity." Steve shook his head, "Namor was influenced by Sinister, it wasn''t his fault, and we have to use everyone we got right now, Tony."


    Tony''s eyes widened, and he let out another short, humorless laugh. "Understood the necessity? You mean you dangled a carrot in front of him, kept pushing him forward like a dog chasing a bone. Jesus Christ." He whirled away, pulling at his hair, "Pepper was right, I am an idiot¡­"


    Clint snapped, standing up from his chair, his voice tight with frustration. "What the hell is your problem, Stark? You, of all people, can''t sit there and tell me you don''t see what Hammer''s doing. We''re all on the same side here."


    Tony''s eyes flashed dangerously. "Of course I can see it. I know more about what Hammer''s doing than you do." He said, voice dropping with condescension.


    "Then why the antagonism, Tony?" Natasha''s voice was smooth, calm as she moved closer to him. Her steps were deliberate, her eyes sharp. She laid a hand on his arm, as though trying to calm him down, to remind him they were still on the same team. "We''re allies, remember?"


    Tony shook her off, his voice rising as he stepped back, his face contorted in frustration. "I don''t trust Hammer as far as I can throw him, but this? This isn''t what I signed up for! Fury sold me some bullshit about saving the world, about being Earth''s Mightiest Heroes - I''ve literally been part of the team for like a day! But this - this is - this is¡­" He broke off, his hand gesturing wildly, his frustration mounting as he struggled for words. "This is bullshit! We played right into Hammer''s hands. He saved the day - he made us look like fools." Tony slammed a fist into the wall, "And at the end of the day¡­ He wasn''t wrong about anything he said!"


    Clint shrugged, his voice forcibly nonchalant. "Whether you like it or not, you''re one of us now, Tony. The world knows it. You need to get over yourself, or you let Hammer win."


    Tony glared at him, baring his teeth like an animal, his temper flaring. "Oh, you think so? You think it''s that simple?"


    "Tony, calm down." Steve''s voice was stern as he watched Tony pace, his eyes narrowing slightly in concern.


    Tony spun on his heel, his voice sharp and biting. "Fuck bring calm, you need to be more upset, Cap! We were useless out there! Useless! Hammer swooped in and saved the day, and if you haven''t noticed, he bent you and all of us over afterward - thanks to Fury and his little pet fish stick!" Tony chuckled, dragging a hand down his face, "The fact you think Hammer is a bigger threat than Apocalypse or the Fish Stick, really shows you''ve got the wrong priorities here¡­"


    "You really don''t see his threat?" Steve questioned, skeptical.


    Tony sneered at him, "Yeah, world domination I get it. Bad. Except he''s also doing free healthcare, fixing the criminal justice system, and together we''re pushing into space. Him taking over the world is arguably bad news, and I will fight it if he goes over the line - but he''s not destroying cities or nuking Wakanda!" He almost roared the last sentence out, beyond tired of these people.


    "He doesn''t need to, he''s already halfway won, but don''t think for a second he''d hesitate if he needed to." Natasha said coldly.


    "Hah, like he''d ever need to, sweet cheeks," Tony told her mockingly, "He fucked us all better in one conversation than he fucked you, the Avengers are a joke!"


    Clint''s face twisted with annoyance. "It''ll blow over. Fury and Coulson won''t let us down. They''ve handled worse."


    Tony stopped dead in his tracks, his eyes narrowing, his body tensing like a spring coiled too tight. His voice dropped to a dangerous, low tone, dripping with sarcasm. "Blow over? Are you serious? You think Hammer''s going to let this ''blow over''? Did you miss the part where he called us all traitors on international television?"


    Before anyone could respond, the flat-screen mounted on the wall flickered to life. A smirking guard stood by the door, twirling his baton in lazy circles, as if savoring the moment. "You might want to see this," The guard said with a nasty grin, pressing a button on the panel next to him. "Highlights of the day.."


    The screen cut to Justin Hammer''s press conference in Cairo.


    They all saw as Justin leaned into the microphone, his expression grave. Then he spoke. "We already knew Fury was a dangerous man, convicted of treason as he is, gathering together a team to fight in his name with superpowers, including a genocidal hidden kingdom. But now, with the capture of this Skrull, the curtain has been drawn back on his dark past. He became the leader of SHIELD, sponsored by aliens, using them to infiltrate, to murder, to take over the lives of his enemies for his benefit. And now, when he was on the run, his life on the verge of ruin, he ''created'' a hero team and sent his Skrulls to fight, to bring their champion in what was meant to be pure theater to lift him back as the savior. Only Fury hadn''t expected his heroes would be too weak to beat him. That the Skrulls might chafe under his incompetent leadership and want their promised planet now."


    The news coverage of his broadcast showcased said Skrull, text flowing by on the bottom explaining what they were, how they were behind Apocalypse.


    The room fell into stunned silence as Hammer''s words echoed through the space. Natasha''s eyes flickered with controlled emotion, Clint''s expression hardened, but Steve - Steve looked like he''d just been punched in the gut. He sank down into a chair, his face drained of color as he processed the betrayal, his hands resting limply in his lap. Tony, on the other hand, stood rigid, his expression growing colder by the second.


    "People can''t believe this shit¡­ Fury would never¡­" Clint muttered. Natasha''s eyes flicked to Steve, and she shared a look with Clint, who moved to the Captain''s side, laying a hand on his shoulder, whispering quietly to him.


    The show was obviously not live, they''d missed something huge while they''d been in here, and the broadcast kept showing clips from different parts of his press conference, keeping their full attention. Before it switched to an interview with CNN that was more recent.


    Hammer spoke loudly to the interviewer, his voice booming with charisma, manipulating the public with every syllable. "We will not let this stand. Fury has sold out humanity, offering Earth on a silver platter to an alien invasion force. His Avengers? His so-called heroes? They were nothing more than pawns in his twisted game, and the blood of millions is on their hands - including Wakanda."


    They couldn''t escape the headlines splashed across the screen. Nick Fury, traitor to mankind, wanted dead or alive, 5 billion dollar bounty from Hammer industries.


    Tony''s fists clenched tightly at his sides as he watched as the footage continued to switch to different parts of the press conference and the later interview. The Skrull they had captured had stood on the stage, transforming into various people, including him, showcasing their terrifying shapeshifting abilities. And Hammer had driven the final nail in the coffin, calling for the world to rise up, to hunt down Fury and his so-called alien allies.


    For Tony, this confirmed everything. He''d been had.


    Did he believe Fury was behind Apocalypse? Of course not, that was just Hammer being Hammer. Tony didn''t believe Fury was that stupidly evil.


    But he could definitely believe Fury had used these Skrulls¡­ How many of them were in his company? How many of these alien pieces of shit were near Pepper?


    The broadcast ended, and the room remained silent, the other Avengers struggling to process what they had just seen.


    Tony broke the silence first, his voice as cold as ice. "Show me."


    Steve blinked, his thoughts still reeling. "What?"


    Tony turned, his eyes filled with barely restrained fury. "I said, show me you bleed red."


    That part of the broadcast had been very poignant.


    Natasha stiffened, immediately understanding the accusation. "Tony¡­ Don''t." She warned.


    But Tony wasn''t listening. His voice dropped to a near growl, venom lacing every word. "You heard me. I want to see it. Skrulls can look like anyone, right? Anyone. So how do I know? How do I know you''re not one of them?"


    Clint stepped forward, his fists clenched. "Tony, you''re losing it. We''re your teammates, not your enemies."


    "Teammates?" Tony barked a laugh. "You want to talk about teammates, after one day? We just got branded traitors in front of the entire world! How do I know one of you isn''t a Skrull planted by Fury? You two" He gestured sharply toward Natasha and Clint. "Are spies. Lying is literally in your job description!"


    Steve stood, his hands raised, trying to de-escalate the situation. "Tony, calm down. No one here is a Skrull. We''ve been through this together. We''re all on the same side."


    But Tony''s eyes were wild now, his mind spiraling as the weight of everything crashed down on him. "The same side? Steve, we just fought in a battle Fury started by hiding under the sea instead of going after Sinister immediately, or revealing him to the world. A battle that nearly destroyed two cities¡­ Millions of people are dead, and now we''re the bad guys! And from what I''m seeing¡­ They''re right! This¡­ This is insanity! And you think I should just take your word for it?"


    Tony could well see that Hammer could make this all up, he had shown his abilities in making the press dance to his tune before, but this¡­ The Skrulls, it seemed right. It tracked. It made so many things about Fury make sense.


    "Tony," Natasha said slowly, her voice dangerously calm, "We''re not your enemies. We''ve got bigger problems right now."


    Tony shook his head, as if trying to shake off the madness. He turned his gaze upward. "Jarvis."


    "Sir?" came the calm, familiar voice over the room''s intercom. Of course he''d been there, Tony hadn''t doubted it for a second.


    Tony''s voice was flat, emotionless. "How soon can you break into this facility?"


    There was a brief pause, and then Jarvis responded smoothly, "I''m already in, sir. What do you need?"


    Everyone in the room froze, the tension ratcheting up to a near-unbearable level. Steve exchanged a shocked look with Natasha and Clint, all three of them momentarily caught off-guard by how far Tony was willing to take this.


    Tony''s grin was sharp, predatory, as he yelled for the guard, "Get me a knife. My dear comrades here need to show me they bleed red." He then sharply snapped to Jarvis, "Get me a suit, the lawyers can clear it all up afterwards."


    "Tony, what the hell are you doing?" Clint demanded, taking a step toward him, his face etched with disbelief.


    Tony didn''t flinch. He stared straight at Clint, his expression cold, detached. "I''m doing what I should have done the moment Fury brought me in. I''m making sure none of you are lying to me."


    "Stark, stop!" Steve barked, his voice firm, trying to regain control of the situation. "This isn''t you. You''re letting fear cloud your judgment."


    Tony''s eyes flicked toward Steve, something dangerous gleaming there. "You think this is fear, Cap? You think I''m scared? I''m not scared. I''m pissed. Pissed that I got dragged into this by a man who''s been lying to all of us. Pissed that we got played. And now, I''m not going to take chances anymore." His face grew colder as he glared at Steve, "I hope to god Steve that he had been lying to you¡­ And that you all weren''t in on this¡­"


    The tension in the room was palpable, everyone poised for a confrontation that seemed inevitable. Natasha stepped forward, her hand raised, palm outward, as if trying to soothe a wild animal. "Tony, look at me. You know better, don''t let Hammer do this. Don''t do this to the team. We''re not Skrulls. You''ve been with us through this fight.."


    Tony''s face twisted in something between anger and grief, but his resolve didn''t waver. "Maybe. Or maybe this entire time I''ve been playing chess with an enemy I didn''t even know was at the board."


    There was a soft click, and the door slid open. One of the facility''s guards entered, a small knife gleaming in his hand. He handed it to Tony without a word, his face a mask of compliance. Another proof of the oddity of their situation, because an inmate requesting a knife and then given it, was just not done anywhere else.


    Tony held the knife up, the blade catching the cold fluorescent light, then he pricked his hand, bleeding red, before he gestured with the knife. "So, I''m good. Who wants to go first?"


    Natasha''s expression hardened, her voice dropping to a low, warning tone. "Tony. Don''t do this."


    But Tony''s smile was thin, strained. "What''s the matter, Romanoff? You scared? Or¡­ You got another reason to refuse? Bleed green maybe?"


    Before Natasha could respond, Steve stepped between them, his body tense with frustration. "Enough, Tony. This isn''t the way."


    Tony''s eyes flicked to Steve, cold and accusing. "Oh? Then what''s the way, Cap? Huh? Are we just going to sit here and trust that everything will work itself out? That we''ll be vindicated by the powers that be? Trust each other, after all these lies?"


    Steve''s jaw clenched, his voice lowering. "We fight. We fight the right way. Together."


    Tony shook his head slowly, his voice tinged with bitterness. "There is no together, Steve. Not anymore." He exhaled slowly, the manic energy in his eyes fading slightly. He ran a hand through his hair, his expression suddenly weary. "Do whatever, I don''t care anymore, besides I''ve got somewhere to be."


    Steve frowned, still uncertain. "Where?"


    Tony''s grin was cold, humorless. "I''m going to find that bastard Fury. And when I do? I''m going to make him answer for everything." He walked to the holding area door, walking through without an issue, the guards not fighting him on it. Whether it was because his lawyers had already done their work, Jarvis had forged an order, or whether they just enjoyed his sniping at the others, he didn''t know, he didn''t care, he was leaving either way. "Jarvis, contact Rhodey for me, I know he''s got HammerTech crap, but he can help."


    His only response was silence for a few moments,


    Then¡­


    "Sir. There is something you should know."


    <hr>


    Cairo,


    Justin stood at the center of the interrogation room, his arms crossed, his expression cold and focused. Across from him, tied securely to a metal chair, was Nathaniel Essex - Mr. Sinister. The man, or mutant, they weren''t sure as of yet, sat motionless, his pale skin stretched tight over his cheekbones, dark eyes staring forward, he''d said not a word since his capture. Next to Justin, Helen Cho swayed back and forth, practically buzzing with excitement at the task before her. At being needed.


    Justin''s voice was low, but the threat behind his words was palpable. "You might wonder why Dr. Cho is here, Essex," He began, his eyes never leaving the unmoving figure. "You see, she''s a dependable woman. When I ask her - Helen, can you tweak Extremis so it keeps someone alive indefinitely - keeps them healing from all that''s done to them, but in unimaginable agony for each healed cell?''" He snapped his fingers for emphasis. "She gets to work just like that."


    Helen smiled, her face lighting up with a fanatic gleam. She practically vibrated in place, clearly basking in Justin''s attention. "It was easy," She chirped, her voice light with adoration. "Anything for you, Master."


    Recent events had done much to set her devotion into stone.


    Justin didn''t even flinch at her devotion this time, his focus solely on the task at hand. He reached out for the syringe she held, the liquid inside glowing with the modified Extremis formula. The silver needle caught the harsh light of the room as he turned it over in his hand, a predator sizing up his prey.


    "You''re going to live for a very long time, Essex." His voice was as cold as ice. He tapped the syringe lightly with his finger, the sound sharp in the stillness of the room. "Forever, in fact. And every single second of it will be agony. I promise you that."


    It would still not be enough, but Justin would make sure¡­ Would find every historic means of torture to have ever existed - and perform it on the man. Helen would find a way to ensure his mind never broke - that he could never escape his fate.


    Justin leaned in closer, his breath almost misting over Sinister''s unnaturally smooth face, and raised the syringe to inject the serum.


    As soon as the needle pierced the skin, and Extremis was injected, Sinister''s body collapsed. It sloughed off the bones like molten wax, the flesh dissolving into a gruesome, sickly mess that oozed onto the floor. A nauseating stench filled the air, like burnt rubber and decayed meat. The silence that followed was thick, oppressive.


    Justin''s eyes widened in disbelief. Then his face twisted into rage. He slammed the syringe down onto the metal table nearby, the clatter ringing through the room. His skin began to glow faintly, blue energy rippling out from his skin as his power flared, uncontrollable for a moment.


    "FUCK!" He roared, his voice shaking the walls. Energy crackled in the air around him, the temperature rising. Helen fell to her knees immediately, her lips parting in a blissful, delirious smile. She tilted her head back, eyes rolling in ecstasy as she basked in the intensity of Justin''s power.


    Domino and Yelena, who had been standing just outside of the reach of the blast of energy, instinctively took a step back, hands hovering near their weapons, instinctive fight or flight responses kicking in for a moment.


    "Justin!" Domino called out, concern clear in her voice. "Get a grip!" Her hand moved away from her guns, as she got control over her reactions again.


    Justin''s breathing was ragged as the power flickered around him. His face was flushed with anger, but he slowly began to pull it back, reigning in the raw energy that had slipped through. After a long moment, the glow dimmed, and his fists unclenched. His jaw remained tight, but he forced himself to focus again.


    "Where the hell is he?" Justin growled, voice now low and dangerous. He turned on Yelena who was watching him carefully. "He can''t have left Cairo. Go!"


    Yelena snapped into action, bolting out of the room in a rush, already issuing orders through her comms. How much of it was the desire to get out of his way right now, he couldn''t tell, nor did he even care at that moment.


    Sinister had escaped him. It was unforgivable.


    Justin turned his focus on the crumbling remains of the fake Sinister, the mess pooling on the floor in a vile heap. His disgust was evident, but his anger was carefully controlled now, simmering just below the surface. He couldn''t afford to lose control like that again, he needed to begin figuring this out¡­


    "What the hell is that?" He demanded, pointing at the remains with restrained fury. He turned to Helen, who was still trembling with excitement, collapsed on the floor, toes still curling, but now beginning to pull herself together. "Tell me what we''re looking at!"


    Helen scrambled up, grabbing a handheld scanner from a nearby table, her fingers shaking slightly as she ran the device over the sludge. The scanner beeped as she analyzed the biological matter, her brow furrowing as she worked.


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    "I¡­ I don''t know," Helen said, her voice trembling slightly, not from fear, but from the disappointment in having to deliver bad news. She swallowed hard. "The scan isn''t showing anything that would explain how this thing was able to mimic Sinister so perfectly. This material shouldn''t be capable of that kind of duplication."


    She glanced at Justin, her expression wretched, like a dog that had disappointed its master. "I''ll have to run more tests. I''m sorry."


    Justin closed his eyes, his breath coming in measured intervals as he calmed himself further. "Do it," He said quietly, though the tension in his voice was palpable. "This takes priority. Any resources you need, Helen, you have them."


    Helen nodded fervently, already working on a more detailed analysis as Justin straightened himself, his posture still tight with frustration.


    As he strode out of the room, Domino fell into step beside him. His skin still faintly glowed, small pulses of blue energy flickering at his fingertips. She eyed him cautiously, but said nothing at first, waiting for him to regain his composure.


    "Nail," Justin barked into his comm, addressing the AI embedded in his systems. "How the hell did he get past you?"


    Nail''s voice responded promptly, though there was a clear note of contrition in her tone. "Apologies, sir. The destruction caused during the battle created too many blind spots in surveillance. I did not anticipate that he had access to a body double on such short notice, or the ability to recover so quickly from his injuries. I am already conducting a new simulation to track possible escape routes."


    "Simulate everything," Justin snapped, his voice cutting. "I don''t care if he''s building a kite out of women''s underwear to fly off this rock. Run the simulations and find out where he could be. I want every angle covered, and have security track all possible landing points if he does get off the city. He''s still here right now... He has to be."


    "Understood, sir."


    Domino reached out and placed a hand on Justin''s shoulder, slowing his pace as they moved down the hall. "Hey, boss," She said, her voice softer now. "We''ll get him. He can''t get off this rock. He''s stuck here, same as everyone else."


    Justin paused for a moment, taking a deep breath, though his anger was still simmering just beneath the surface. "He better not have escaped," He muttered, his voice tight with frustration. He had been behind it all, everything, even back to the nuking of Wakanda.


    And now¡­ Hope¡­ It was all Sinister. He could not get away.


    Domino, sensing the need to shift his focus, offered a distraction. "You''ve been at this non-stop since the battle. Maybe take a break. We could spar, work off some of that stress."


    Justin exhaled slowly, considering her offer, but before he could respond, his neural implant pinged with a notification. He glanced at the message flashing before his eyes and smiled grimly. Sparring while I don''t have control over my new power was a bad idea anyway¡­


    "Work never ends," He said, his voice low. "The Deputy Director of the CIA, the head of Interpol, and over one hundred and twenty members of parliaments amongst others across the world have just come to my attention." He looked at Domino, his eyes cold again. "Do you know what they have in common?"


    Domino grimaced, her stomach tightening. "Skrulls?"


    Justin nodded, the world governments had moved quickly on demanding their people bleed. "They''re only in preliminary interrogations, but they''ve already cracked one thing."


    Domino frowned, watching his expression darken. "What?"


    Justin''s eyes narrowed as he read the reports, his voice dropping into a dangerous tone. "They''re not Fury''s."


    <hr>


    Tanker, moving out of the Mediterranean.


    Nick Fury sat alone at the bow of an old oil tanker, the night sky stretched above him like a cold, uncaring blanket. The ocean beneath him was calm, reflecting the stars in broken, shattered fragments across the water. Fury sat hunched forward, elbows resting on his knees, his single eye staring out at the black horizon. A cigar hung loosely between his lips, its ember a faint, dying glow in the oppressive dark.


    Things had gone to hell. More than that - spectacularly to hell. Fury had faced down half a dozen potential world-ending threats, but this¡­ This felt different. This felt like losing.


    He rolled the cigar between his fingers, the heat barely noticeable against his calloused skin. Fury had built his career on anticipation, always being ten steps ahead of everyone else in the room. He''d spent his life making hard decisions to keep the world spinning. But somehow, Justin Hammer had outplayed him. And it stung.


    Hammer¡­ The name curled in his mind like a sour taste. Justin Hammer wasn''t the worst enemy Fury had ever faced, not by a long shot. He wasn''t some alien conqueror or a megalomaniac with godlike powers. He was just a man. A smart, conniving man. And that made it worse. That Hammer, of all people, had managed to blindside him so completely. Fury had once thought to use him, heh, look how that turned out?


    Fury took a drag from the cigar, inhaling the bitter smoke deeply into his lungs, and then let it out slowly, watching it dissipate into the cold night air. He thought back to the moment it had all started, where it had come together finally, before all falling apart at the finishing line. He''d had the perfect setup - found Captain America, brought him back into the fold, convinced him of the cause. Cap had been his ideological weapon, the moral backbone he needed. A living legend, a symbol of America''s greatness, and someone who could unite the country and its allies under a single banner. Cap wasn''t just a hero. He was a story. The kind of story that people could rally behind.


    He was supposed to be the answer to Hammer.


    And it should have worked. Fury had lined everything up. He''d gotten Bruce Banner on board, albeit with a lie, one the scientist must have understood, deep down, but he''d kept at it anyway. Once Banner had managed to track the Vibranium shipments disappearing, Fury thought he''d hit the jackpot. The Avengers were going to ride in, stop the thefts, expose the terrorists that had destroyed Wakanda, save the day, and win him back public trust he could wield against Hammer and Pierce. It was supposed to be a clean victory. One that would show the world they didn''t need to rely on Justin Hammer''s flashy tech and hollow promises.


    The memory of that moment soured his thoughts further. They''d flown Barton and Romanoff in, both of them sharp as ever, loyal as always. Together, they''d set off in the submersible Fury had kept aside for a rainy day, diving deeper than Fury ever thought possible. And what did they find? Not just a rogue operation or an enemy bunker, but an entire hidden civilization beneath the sea.


    Talokan. A whole new world Fury had never anticipated, one led by Namor, an arrogant and delusional king who didn''t understand the surface world at all. It had been a mess from the start - months of captivity, trapped in a kingdom that wanted nothing to do with them but also wouldn''t let them go or execute them, instead studying their peculiarity, especially Banner and Cap. If it hadn''t been for Banner, they''d still be down there, prisoners of a king with a vendetta against the surface world. Banner, who figured out Namor wasn''t fully in control, that something was messing with his mind.


    It was pure luck they''d managed to break out just long enough to find the device influencing Namor''s brainwaves and even more luck that Banner knew how to disrupt it. After that, Namor had been a treasure trove of intel - especially on Nathaniel Essex. Sinister. Fury hadn''t even known how deep that rabbit hole went. But Namor had. Essex was worse than Fury had imagined, and getting Namor on side against the man? That should''ve been the trump card.


    Talokan should not get off for what they''d done, brainwashing or not, but Fury was low on options, and he had to sacrifice to get where they needed to be to prevent Hammer from taking down the world in his quest for domination.


    But it wasn''t enough. Nothing ever was.


    Convincing Namor had been no easy feat, but somehow easier than convincing the team to let him onboard. Once Captain America was on board, it all came together. Cap was a sucker for second chances, especially when it involved turning an enemy into an ally - especially when that event was painted as a victim.


    Fury had used that to his advantage, pushing Steve with stories of Bucky Barnes, painting a picture of the Winter Soldier that made Steve think he wasn''t working for Hammer willingly, that he needed the protection due to his unwilling crimes of the past - that having another case proven to the world would make it easier for Bucky to go free. It was a calculated move, one that worked. Once Steve signed on, everyone else folded and Namor followed, and Fury had his team. The Avengers.


    They were supposed to be his way of taking the fight to Hammer and stopping SHIELD from becoming nothing more than a footnote in history. He''d helped build SHIELD from the organization it was, to the world spanning one that was to be the sword and shield of the world. It wasn''t perfect, but it had been his. And now something rotten was brewing in there, and Hammer was at the fore of it all. Fury wasn''t sure how Hammer had flipped Pierce of all people, but he''d find out once he could move in the open again.


    Except now moving in the open was absolutely impossible.


    His fingers absently rubbed over the pager in his hand, the cold metal a familiar weight in his palm.


    Fury''s thoughts wandered back to Tony Stark. Iron Man. That had been another move, the last piece on the chessboard, a move he thought would pay off. Convincing Stark to join the team had been like pulling teeth, but Fury knew he needed him. Tony''s resources - his technology, his influence - it was too great to ignore, a perfect foil to Hammer. Stark had been reluctant, and as always, impossible to deal with, but Fury knew how to play him. Or he thought he did.


    On this very tanker he''d argued with the man for hours, bringing the team in to help convince the man, and still he''d gotten nothing more then a loose frankly lukewarm commitment. But it had been a commitment.


    Then Apocalypse happened. Of all the goddamn things Fury could''ve predicted, an ancient mutant god or whatever he''d been, hadn''t been one of them. But there it was. Apocalypse had hit like a freight train just as Fury was trying to finish negotiations with Tony. And just like that, Stark was suddenly eager to suit up and fight. Fury had thought, Finally. Something''s going right. The Avengers, ready for action, with Tony Stark onboard? It was a win, right?


    Wrong.


    It had gone to hell. Worse than hell. Apocalypse had crushed everything Fury had built. And just like that, Hammer had swooped in, spinning the entire disaster to his advantage. Every failure the Avengers had? Every mistake? Hammer twisted it, sold it to the world, and made himself look like the savior while Fury''s team came off as amateurs. No, worse - criminals.


    Namor had been a risk, one he''d thought could be moved around with victory at their feet, victory cleansed many sins after all. Except they hadn''t won¡­


    He sighed, the weight of the world pressing down on his shoulders. The Skrulls who had been his allies for so long, the hidden ace in his deck. Now? Thanks to Hammer¡­ The Skrulls were gone. His last contact had made it clear - they were cutting ties, disappearing back into space, not to be heard from again. Fury had lost them, too. His network, his covert operations, his connections - they were unraveling.


    He glanced up at the night sky, the stars overhead bright and indifferent. Far above, one of the stars seemed to flicker, a small streak of light moving through the darkness. It almost looked like it was crashing down to Earth.


    He fingered the pager again, the weight of it growing heavier in his hand.


    <hr>


    Cairo, morning,


    Justin sat at his desk in the heart of his Cairo compound. His fingers flew across the interface of his desk, juggling a hundred different problems that never seemed to end. The battle with Apocalypse had left the world reeling, and while others mourned or celebrated, Justin had been working. Always working.


    Nail''s voice came through his implant. "Sir, an aircraft is requesting permission to land in one of the cleared zones."


    Justin barely looked up from his work. "Who the hell is it?" he asked, impatient. With the sheer number of crises he was dealing with, the last thing he needed was another unexpected visit. He flicked his eyes toward the world map projected on his desk, where blinking red dots signified hot spots of unrest, economic instability, and political fallout he needed to manage.


    Any aircraft landing was also a potential risk due to Sinister still not having been found. Last thing they needed was him to practically be offered a getaway vehicle. Then again..


    Perhaps he''d finally show if he thought he had a way off¡­


    "Emma Frost," Nail responded smoothly.


    That name made him stop. Emma Frost. The White Queen herself. His fingers paused over the desk interface, the room falling into momentary silence as he processed the implications. Emma wasn''t the type to just show up without reason, especially not at a time like this. Her arrival wasn''t something he could afford to ignore. He wasn''t happy about it, but she wouldn''t come without a very good reason.


    After a beat, he nodded to himself. "Let her land," He ordered. "Keep her there until I get to her." He pursed his lips, "Surreptitiously move Bucky, Frank and Brock into a nearby overwatch position, keep an eye on the plane for any sight of Sinister making a move."


    "Yes, sir," Nail acknowledged before falling silent.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, looking around the room at his most trusted people - Phantazia, Domino, and Yelena. The rest of his inner circle was already off managing the delicate operations in Hammerhaven, coordinating with international contacts, and preparing for the next moves in this volatile new world. But here, his most capable field agents remained. Their sharp eyes caught his silent contemplation as they waited for his orders.


    "Thoughts?" Justin asked, folding his hands in front of him, his tone neutral.


    "If it''s an assassination attempt, it''s a pretty shitty one," Domino said with a shrug, her tone light. "She knows you have Cairo locked down tight. She wouldn''t be stupid enough to try something here."


    Phantazia gave Domino a wry look before turning her attention back to Justin. "She''s here because of what happened. Emma''s a strategist. She saw which way the wind is blowing and decided to get ahead of the curve."


    Yelena crossed her arms, a smug smirk tugging at her lips. "The bitch is here to kiss your ass." She said with surety.


    Domino grinned darkly, leaning back in her seat. "Wouldn''t mind seeing that. She''d look damn good on her knees." The humor in her voice was unmistakable, her smirk almost evil.


    Phantazia rolled her eyes and gave her a playful slap on the arm. "Not everything is about sex, you know," She said with mock exasperation.


    "That just means you''ve never had good enough sex," Domino shot back, still grinning.


    Yelena let out a frustrated groan. "Would you two just fuck already?" She muttered, although her lips twitched with amusement.


    Phantazia sputtered indignantly, while Domino gave Yelena a wicked grin, clearly unbothered by the suggestion.


    Justin watched the good-natured bickering with faint amusement, though his mind was elsewhere. Emma Frost was a wild card - an ally, yes, but barely. She''d always been someone operating on her own agenda, and while he''d crossed paths with her a few times with Hellfire business, she''d never been fully within his circle. Was she truly here to submit to the inevitable? Or was this some new power play?


    "Nail, keep her grounded when she lands," Justin instructed. "I want to know exactly what her intentions are before I let her anywhere near my compound."


    "Yes, sir," Came the immediate response.


    The trio stopped their playful banter and focused on him. They knew the stakes. Emma Frost wasn''t someone you underestimated. Thankfully her biggest threat was neutralized with their neural implants. She wouldn''t be able to read their minds or control them.


    Justin adjusted his tie, standing up from his desk. "We''re going to meet her at the landing site. I''m not inviting her into my building until I know exactly what she wants."


    ¡­


    Forty-five minutes later, Justin stood with his team in the cleared landing zone, watching as the door opened. The infamous White Queen descended the steps, cool as ever, her signature ice-cold demeanor intact. Her fitted white suit stood out against the muted desert tones and heaps of rubble surrounding them.


    "Justin," She said, her tone as crisp as her attire.


    Justin didn''t bother with pleasantries. "What do you want?" He asked bluntly, his arms crossed. There were very few reasons for Emma Frost to be here, especially now. He wasn''t in the mood for games.


    Emma sighed, visibly annoyed at the lack of courtesy. "Not even going to pretend to be a gracious host, I see."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, unmoved by her theatrics. She could pout all she wanted, but he wasn''t about to be distracted. "I''m busy, Emma. Either say what you came to say, or get back on that plane and leave my city, but first, your hand, please..."


    She stared at him for a long moment, her eyes betraying nothing. Then, with an irritated flick of her wrist, she held out her hand. "Fine. If we''re going to play it this way, let''s get on with it."


    Justin gave a small nod to Yelena, who stepped forward, a knife gleaming in her hand. Emma didn''t flinch as Yelena approached, though she shot Justin a look of disdain. "Really? You think I''m a Skrull?"


    "Hand over your hand or I''ll put you down, and we''ll check it the hard way," Justin said coldly. He wasn''t about to take any chances, not after the Skrull infiltration was revealed to be more widespread than anyone had anticipated. Fury had Skrulls on his payroll and he''d thought that was it, yet now the world was dealing with even more of them.


    And whatever minority Fury had worked with, was positively Disney like - compared to the other Skrull infiltrators they''d found. They really were looking at a full on alien threat.


    Emma made a show of rolling her eyes. "If it weren''t for those mind-blocking implants you and your crew have, I could show you with a thought how ridiculous this is," She said dryly.


    "I''m not ruling out a Skrull being a mind rapist," Justin shot back. "Blood doesn''t lie, we''ve found so far."


    Yelena pricked Emma''s finger with the tip of the knife, and a droplet of bright red blood welled up. Satisfied, Yelena nodded and stepped back.


    "Happy?" Emma asked, her tone cutting.


    "Not even a little," Justin replied. "Why are you here?"


    Emma''s icy gaze shifted to the others in his entourage. "Can we not do this in private?"


    Justin''s patience snapped. "Get back on your plane and get out of my city," He said, his voice steely, making it clear he wasn''t going to entertain any games.


    He wasn''t the man he''d been just a week ago. He now understood power in a way he hadn''t. And he didn''t need to play pretend with people like this anymore.


    Emma remained still for a long moment, her expression unreadable. Then, slowly, her shoulders slumped, and she let out a sigh. "Fine. You win, Justin."


    Justin''s eyebrow quirked upward. "Win what, exactly?"


    Emma''s lips thinned as she met his gaze. "You know what," She replied coolly, though there was an edge to her voice. She paused, collecting herself before continuing. "I can see how the tide is turning. I can either fight it until I drown or get in early enough to come out with something worthwhile."


    Justin''s mind was racing. Was she really saying what he thought she was?


    Emma drew in a deep breath, clearly hating every word she was about to say. "I''m here to discuss¡­ Selling Frost Industries to you, in return for a high position in the new world order."


    That caught him off guard. Justin wasn''t easily surprised, but this? This was unexpected. He studied her, searching for any signs of deception. Emma Frost was a master manipulator, someone who could pivot and adapt to any situation. She was also pragmatic enough to sell her own company if it meant ensuring her survival and securing a foothold in the future. He could see her doing it if she thought the benefits were worth it.


    But was she really serious? Or was this part of some larger plan he hadn''t seen yet?


    "I''ll think about it," Justin said after a beat. He gestured to Yelena. "Escort our guest to a room. Give her access to a monitor, have her write out exactly what she wants, what she has, and what she expects from me."


    Yelena nodded and moved to guide Emma away, but before she left, Emma caught Justin''s gaze, her expression deadly serious. "Just so you''re aware, as a freebie," She said, "Charles Xavier hired me to mind-wipe Dr. McCoy of everything he did while under your employ. That means I know a lot about Extremis, which I have been using in my own research. I''m voluntarily giving you this information to show you how serious I am."


    Justin held her gaze for a moment, then nodded once. He watched her leave, his mind racing with possibilities and doubts. Fucking Xavier, couldn''t do the job yourself¡­ Not that any of it was news anymore.


    Emma might have given him a freebie as she labeled it - but it had been an essentially worthless one, since Apocalypse had already revealed Xavier''s folly.


    "Think that was the truth?" Phantazia asked after Emma was out of earshot.


    "It was definitely the truth," Justin replied, his voice low. "But the truth is also the best lie."


    Phantazia nodded, her expression thoughtful. She understood. Justin had used the tactic before - tell just enough truth to make the deception believable. Emma was playing a dangerous game, and he knew better than to take her words at face value. Still, the offer was tempting.


    He would vet every detail of her proposal, make sure taking her in - even in a peripheral role - wasn''t inviting a snake into his midst.


    This was a moment of opportunity, but with Emma Frost, every opportunity came with a price.


    She''d never enter his inner circle, he''d never trust her.


    But she could be useful¡­


    <hr>


    An hour later,


    Justin had barely settled into his office, sitting behind his desk when Nail''s voice sounded crisply in his ear. "Sir, Thor and Hela are on their way to your office."


    Of course they are, Justin thought, his jaw tightening slightly. He had half a dozen crises to handle, yet the Asgardians decided now was the best time to drop in for a chat. He straightened in his seat, adjusting his tie as Domino, stationed nearby, raised an eyebrow at the news. She didn''t say anything, but the glint in her eye spoke volumes.


    And he''d just been dealing with the aftermath of Hank Pym''s sudden death too, already scheduled a meeting with Darren Cross. In the future that would never be, that idiot had managed Pym particles. They didn''t have Hank or Hope anymore¡­ So add Helen, Maya and Forge to the equation, they could likely figure it out.


    Yelena had just stepped out to handle some other business, leaving him and Domino alone when the door opened, and in strolled the God of Thunder and his far more dangerous sibling. He mentally put the issue of Pym industries and it''s new leader to the backburner so he could focus on the now.


    Thor entered first, his expression attempting to be regal, though there was a slight tension in his shoulders. Behind him, Hela walked in with her usual mix of predatory grace and amusement. Her eyes immediately swept across the room, taking in everything like a hunter assessing her territory. She met Justin''s gaze, her lips curving into a mocking smile.


    "King Thor. Hela," Justin greeted coolly, folding his hands on the desk in front of him. "To what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?"


    Thor stepped forward, his tone somewhat diplomatic. "Hammer, we are here to discuss the... Arrangements concerning my sister." He cast a sideways glance at Hela, his brow furrowing slightly. "There is the matter of her... Presence here, and how best it can serve both Asgard and Earth."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his voice flat. "And what exactly are you suggesting, Thor? Because I can''t imagine letting the Goddess of Death freely roam my world is going to win me any points, my opinion there hasn''t changed." If anything I''m more sure than ever I don''t want her around.


    Hela chuckled darkly, stepping closer to the desk, her eyes gleaming with amusement. "Oh, Justin, you wound me. I''m not here to ''roam'' as you put it. I''m offering... Assistance, to you, personally."


    Thor quickly cut in, his expression tightening. "As King of Asgard, I must ensure that her presence here does not disrupt the future balance between our cultures, especially with Hela''s... Unique history..." His face turned more serious as he added, "But stay on Earth she must, she can not return to Asgard."


    Justin leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing. "So, you want me to take on Asgard''s biggest problem and make it mine? That''s what you''re asking, I still haven''t heard a single reason for why I should care."


    Although it''s good they''re bringing it up now, instead of the actual international summit. I''d hate to have to deal with it with insipid politicians thinking they have a say. This way I can have Thor impress on his mother how serious I am about compensation.


    Thor straightened, looking as regal as possible, but there was a hint of tension in his voice. "We are not asking you to shoulder the burden alone. Asgard will be... Cooperative. There will be concessions."


    Justin snorted, leaning forward, his elbows resting on his desk. "Concessions? You have a hell of a lot more to offer than vague promises if you want me to entertain the idea of Hela sticking around." His gaze flicked to Hela, who watched him with a smirk. "What exactly does she bring to the table, other than a penchant for chaos and death?" He said sarcastically.


    Hela smirked, her voice smooth and dark. "Oh, I bring a lot more than that, darling. You of all people should know how valuable power can be. Imagine what I could do as your... Ally."


    Thor shot her a sharp look, clearly disapproving of her tone. "Hela," he warned, his voice low, but she merely waved him off. Justin had a feeling she had also not followed the script, the pause before she said ally had been telling. Thor really was foolish if he thought he''d get Hela to call herself a subordinate.


    "Relax, foolish brother of mine. I''m merely stating the obvious. Justin knows what power is. He knows how to wield it. And I can offer... Guidance." Her eyes gleamed as she looked back at Justin. "And I do love a man who knows how to seize control and isn''t afraid to crush his enemies."


    Domino shifted slightly behind Justin, casually pulling out one of her pistols and resting it on her knee. She wasn''t pointing it at Hela, but the message was clear.


    Justin glanced between the two Asgardians, weighing his options. "If you think I''m going to let Hela do whatever she wants on Earth, you''re mistaken. I''m not running a charity, Thor, and I sure as hell don''t need Hela causing problems when I''ve just put down the biggest threat to the planet." You''re not going to convince me with pleas, I''m not a fool Avenger, Thor¡­


    Thor sighed, visibly frustrated, but trying to keep his composure. "Hammer, the upcoming negotiations between Earth and Asgard are of utmost importance. What I''m asking is for a measure of goodwill here. Hela is - "


    Hela interrupted with a laugh. "Goodwill? Really, Thor? I see Odin and his sex slave failed to teach you politics and diplomacy. And this mortal isn''t an idiot either." She turned to Justin, leaning forward slightly, her voice lowering into a dark, teasing whisper. "You know what I''m worth. I''m not here to play nice, Justin. I''m here because I can help you in ways you haven''t even imagined." The sensual way she purred that out didn''t promise an easy time.


    Justin''s eyes narrowed, but before he could respond, Thor cut in again, more firmly this time. "Hela''s presence on Earth could be... Beneficial to you. She knows more about the ancient threats that still exist, the ones that may rise again. She has... Knowledge." His tone was somewhat pained after the dig at his mother, but he kept his cool, which was already way more than the original Thor would have managed at this time.


    "That''s one way of putting it," Justin replied dryly, his tone hard. "But I''m not in the market for chaos gods right now."


    The tension in the room thickened as Thor tried once more. "There are the negotiations coming up. Asgard can provide Earth with resources, technology, protection -"


    Justin cut him off. "You''ll need to impress that on your mother, Thor. I''m not signing off on anything that involves Hela without a very good reason, and your concessions better be significant if you expect me to even entertain the idea." Like give me Uru, levels of significance¡­


    Thor''s jaw clenched slightly, but he nodded, knowing the truth of Justin''s words. "I will relay that to my mother," He said, his voice tight.


    Oh, how it must smart to be the King of Asgard and just be the messenger for dear mommy to make the decision, Justin had to admit he kind of enjoyed that part of dealing with Thor.


    Justin let the moment hang in the air for a beat, before he leaned back, signaling the end of the discussion. "Good. I expect a very good deal from Asgard, Thor. If Hela''s staying, Asgard is paying for it, and paying heavily."


    Thor opened his mouth to respond, but Justin interrupted him with a sharp look. "And we''ll hammer out those details in the negotiations with your mother... Anything else, King Thor?"


    Thor hesitated, his frustration evident, but he shook his head. "No. That will be all."


    Justin nodded. "Good. Now, before you go - "


    Hela and Thor had both turned as if to leave, but Justin''s next words made them pause in the doorway. "What do you know of divinity?"


    Both Asgardians froze, but their reactions were vastly different. Thor looked reluctant, his brow furrowing as he glanced back at Justin. "Hammer, due to the way you''ve gained it... As King of Asgard, I cannot assist you." There was clear censure in his voice, no doubt knowing exactly how Justin had come into possession of certain Asgardian traits. Heimdall must''ve told him everything.


    But Hela... Hela''s smile returned, darker and more amused than before. "Oh, I''d be happy to discuss it," She purred.


    Thor shot her a sharp look. "Hela, you cannot -"


    She waved him off dismissively. "I''m not of Asgard anymore, or so you keep reminding me, little brother. I''ll do what I like."


    Thor''s gaze hardened, his voice lowering into a warning. "There are limits to your behavior, Hela. Don''t push them."


    Justin wanted to roll his eyes, Thor kept making that threat, but never followed up, was it a wonder Hela didn''t care.


    Hela laughed, the sound mocking. "Run along, Thor. Cry to the sex slave if you must."


    Thor''s expression tightened, but he gave Justin a curt nod before leaving, though he glanced back at his sister one last time.


    Once Thor was gone, Hela sauntered over to Justin''s desk, casually leaning against it. Her eyes glinted with dark amusement, her lips curling into a smirk. "So, what do you want to know about divinity?"


    Domino, who had been silently watching the exchange, casually brought her guns to bare, holding them ready. She sent Hela a pointed look at her close proximity to Justin.


    Hela raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening. "Cute, but useless."


    Domino''s grin was wicked as she raised her gun and fired it into the back wall, which had only just been repaired that morning. The blast disintegrated a large chunk of the wall, leaving behind a smoking hole, Justin only sighed, well used to shenanigans.


    Hela''s expression shifted slightly, her stance adjusting ever so subtly to keep Domino in her peripheral vision. "Not bad," She admitted.


    Justin cleared his throat, drawing Hela''s attention back to him. "Let''s talk about divinity," He said. "I''ve noticed... Changes. Power, yes, but I need to understand it. I want to know what people''s belief means for me, what domains, if any, are starting to align with me - If that is even how it works¡­"


    It rankled admitting ignorance, but divinity had never been something he''d even spared a thought for.


    Hela''s smirk returned, her voice taking on a dark, teasing edge. "Ah, you''ve noticed it already, haven''t you? The way they look at you. The whispers, the prayers... You, Justin Hammer, are a symbol now. And symbols... well, they have a habit of gaining power from those who believe in them, they''re fed, and grow, until eventually you settle, at which point even lack of belief can not unseat you from the power you''ve gained."


    Justin remained silent, waiting for her to continue. Although that explains why those Asgardian ''gods'' worshiped in the past haven''t lost power since then¡­


    "And what happens if enough people believe?" Justin asked, his voice steady, though there was a flicker of something deeper behind his words.


    Hela leaned closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "If enough people believe in you, Justin, you''ll become... exactly what they think you are." Hela leaned in even closer, her lips barely parting as she whispered, "And with that belief comes power. Real, tangible power. You''re already beginning to feel it, aren''t you? The strength coursing through your veins, the way your very presence shifts the air around you. It''s intoxicating, isn''t it?"


    Justin didn''t flinch or react, but he knew she was right. There had been... Changes. Subtle, but undeniable. Ever since the fight, since the moment he had harnessed that power, something within him had shifted. He had felt it growing, thrumming beneath his skin. And it wasn''t just the energy from the Power Stone - it was something deeper.


    "What are you saying, exactly?" Justin asked, his voice low and measured. Because it wasn''t all good news - because what exactly did people believe him to be?


    Would he be forced into the actual role of a hero, because people believed him one? That¡­ Didn''t work for him.


    Hela smirked, standing up straight again and casually brushing a lock of her dark hair over her shoulder. "I''m saying that belief is the most powerful force in the universe, Justin. The gods of old - those who came before Asgard and beyond - they didn''t rule by divine right. They ruled because people believed in them. That belief fed them, sustained them, shaped them into what they became."


    Justin tapped his fingers on the desk, considering her words with some dread. "And you think that''s happening to me?"


    "I know it is," Hela replied, her eyes gleaming. "You''ve already seen it with your own eyes. The people here... they see you as their savior. You stopped Apocalypse when no one else could. And now, with every new person who prays to you, whether out of hope or fear, you grow stronger. You may not have fully realized it yet, but you are becoming... Divine." Hela licked her lips as she stared at him with avarice.


    "Domains," Justin said, narrowing his eyes. "You''re the goddess of Death and War, how do domains start?" And how can I manipulate things so I get the ''right'' sort¡­


    Hela nodded, tapping her lips with a little smirk on her face, "Domains are tied to belief of course. The more people align their belief in you with specific traits, the more those traits manifest in your power. If people see you as a god of war, you''ll find yourself excelling in battle. If they see you as a protector, your strength will align with that. It''s malleable, and it depends on the image you project to the world." She paused momentarily, eyeing him, "Up¡­ Until a certain point. Like I said, once you''ve settled, it''s very difficult to change, even if people stop believing."


    "So, it''s a matter of perception," Justin said, his mind whirling. He had always known that public image mattered, but this took it to a whole new level. "I need to control how they see me."


    "Exactly," Hela purred, clearly enjoying this conversation. "You have an unique opportunity that not many have had, you can shape it, manipulate it on a global stage, mold it to your will. And once you''ve solidified what you are in their eyes, you''ll be almost unstoppable."


    Justin leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling for a moment, considering the implications. "And what if people believe different things?" He asked, still thinking about the world''s fractured perception of him. "What if half the world sees me as a hero and the other half as a tyrant?"


    Hela''s smile widened, a wicked gleam in her eyes. "Then you get to lean into which belief you nurture if it''s close enough to be a choice. But Justin... I suspect you''ll find that the line between hero and tyrant is thinner than you think."


    The room grew quieter as Justin absorbed her words. Domino, still holding her gun in her lap, glanced between Justin and Hela. "And what''s your angle in all of this?" She asked sharply, her gaze never leaving Hela. "You sound a little too excited for a lowly mortal." Domino said the last part almost mockingly, copying Hela''s normal cadence.


    Hela chuckled darkly. "Oh, I have no interest in interfering with Justin''s divinity. I simply find it... Fascinating. Watching someone new to this game, learning how to wield power. It reminds me of the early days. Before I became what I am."


    Domino smirked, raising an eyebrow. "So, you''re just here to play teacher, huh? Kinky¡­"


    Justin sent her an exasperated look, but Domino only grinned at him.


    Hela''s gaze flicked to Domino, her expression amused. "I''m here because I''m curious. And because I think Justin and I might... Complement each other''s ambitions."


    Justin glanced at Hela, his expression unreadable. "I don''t need a partner, Hela. Especially not one who wants to see the world burn."


    "Who said I want to see it burn?" Hela asked sweetly, her voice dripping with mock innocence. "Maybe I just want to watch it... Change."


    "Let''s get one thing straight," Justin said coldly, his eyes locking onto hers. "I''m not interested in whatever chaos you''re planning. If you think I''m going to let you run wild on Earth, you''re mistaken."


    Hela''s smile remained, but her eyes narrowed slightly. "You may find, Justin, that chaos and order aren''t so different. But fine... Have it your way, for now." She stretched languidly, "Besides, I''m perfectly fine with leaving you Midgard, just as I suspect you wouldn''t mind if I was off somewhere else, like Asgard, as an ally¡­"


    So that''s your game¡­  If only I could trust that you wouldn''t attempt to conquer us¡­ Justin thought.


    The meeting broke up soon after, leaving Justin with his thoughts.


    The fact he wouldn''t be endlessly forced to vye for people''s faith to keep his power was a relief. Somewhat dampened by the fact that he needed to ensure people didn''t believe him a full on saint - and stuck him with domains which from what he gathered from Hela''s words¡­ He would be stuck with after.


    No domain would make him weaker, per say. But if he was believed to be a hero, a healer and all that entailed. He''d no doubt have a harder time doing certain things¡­


    Well, he''d been planning on chucking some of his public persona anyway.


    This just meant he had more of a reason to move more openly.


    <hr>


    China,


    Xu Wenwu, also known as the Mandarin, stood at the head of the room, gazing down at the dozens of his most loyal followers, all kneeling in absolute submission before him. Their heads were pressed low, their foreheads touching the cold stone floor, the ultimate sign of deference. They were his most trusted, the inner circle of the Ten Rings, trained for decades to serve without hesitation, to carry out his will with precision and stealth. The dimly lit chamber flickered with the soft light of candles, casting shadows over the kneeling forms.


    The Mandarin''s expression was one of cool calculation, but beneath the surface, there was frustration. Justin Hammer. The name that now plagued his thoughts. The man who had risen far too quickly, amassing wealth, power, and influence at a terrifying pace. Hammer was becoming a thorn in his side, and he had to be dealt with before his reach became insurmountable. The power he''d wielded against Apocalypse would be his instead, and they would strike before Hammer became too powerful to resist.


    He began to speak, his voice steady and cold, filled with the weight of centuries of tradition and power. "Justin Hammer," He said, almost spitting the name as if it left a bitter taste in his mouth. "The white devil who seeks to ruin what we have built, to twist the world into his vision of progress. He is not a man who respects history, culture, or the power of the old ways. He is a disease, a threat to everything the Ten Rings have stood for, everything we have built over a thousand years."


    His eyes glimmered as he paced slowly, hands clasped behind his back. He spoke deliberately, each word a knife cutting through the air. "The West always seeks to consume, to devour what they do not understand. Hammer believes he can reshape the world in his image, that he can bend it to his will with his technology, with his money. But he has made one critical mistake."


    The Mandarin stopped pacing and turned to face his kneeling followers, his eyes burning with cold fury. "He believes he can overpower us. But he does not know the Ten Rings. He does not understand that our strength lies not in the tools of the modern world, but in our ability to move through the shadows. We do not need the crutches of technology. Our movements will go unseen, our plans unnoticed until it is too late." A necessity, as their electronics had been subverted.


    But they, more than anyone alive, knew how to move around the world unseen, and unburdened by technology. Hammer''s crutch would be his downfall.


    He scanned the room, the kneeling figures not daring to move, their heads still pressed against the ground. His words held them, filled them with purpose, as if their very lives depended on carrying out his vision. Norman Osborn, almost unrecognizable now, knelt with the others, both of his personalities completely bent to the Mandarin''s will.


    "Hammer''s empire is vast, yes. His power is strong. But you do not strike a man such as him by striking for his head first." The Mandarin''s voice took on a chilling edge, his lips curling into a predatory smile. "No, you sever  his limbs. You weaken him, take away his ability to fight back, one piece at a time."


    As he spoke, his mind conjured images of Hammer''s corporations, his business allies, his technological networks. Each piece, each limb, of the puzzle was vulnerable if approached the right way. "First, you strike at what holds him together. His companies, his affiliates, his connections. One by one, they will fall, and Hammer will feel the weight of each loss."


    The Mandarin''s voice lowered, taking on an almost conspiratorial tone. "Next, you strike at his heart." His eyes gleamed with malice as he thought of the people closest to Hammer, the ones who supported him, the ones who kept him strong. "His allies. His women. The ones he holds dear. We will make him watch as everything he loves is torn away, as those who stand with him are brought to ruin."


    There was a pause, his words hanging in the air like a noose tightening around a neck. The tension in the room was palpable, the kneeling figures frozen in anticipation of what was to come.


    "Only when he is broken," the Mandarin said, his voice soft but filled with menace, "When his limbs are gone, when his heart is shattered¡­ Only then do you cut off the head. Only then do you deliver the final blow and remove him from this world. Only then does he receive the mercy of death."


    The room remained silent, the weight of the Mandarin''s words pressing down on his followers like a crushing force. Then, in unison, the men and women of the Ten Rings raised their voices in absolute obedience, their cries of loyalty echoing off the stone walls.


    The Mandarin nodded once, his satisfaction carefully concealed behind his cold exterior. He knew that Hammer was a dangerous man, one who had gained far too much power too quickly. But the Ten Rings had endured for centuries.


    This was only the beginning.


    The Mandarin watched his loyal followers for a moment longer, his mind already moving to the next step. Hammer would not fall easily, but fall he would. And the Mandarin would ensure that every step of his downfall was slow, deliberate, and filled with suffering, with no trace of who was truly responsible.


    Hammer''s empire would crumble, piece by piece, limb by limb. And when the time came, the final strike would be his to deliver.


    Xu Wenwu would give him the honor of doing so personally.


    <hr>

 Stormtamer

    <hr>


    Oil tanker, out at sea.


    Nick Fury sat on the edge of the oil tanker''s deck, the cold metal beneath him creaking under the weight of the sea. The night air was thick, a salty breeze ruffling his coat as he gazed out over the dark horizon. His single eye, sharp and calculating, had long since stopped scanning for threats. He was too tired for that, at least for the moment. Things had gone sideways faster than he could have anticipated, and now he was sitting in the middle of the ocean, hoping his latest plan wouldn''t fall apart like the rest of them.


    Behind him, the soft sound of boots on metal echoed in the stillness. Carol Danvers, Captain Marvel, approached with the calm confidence of someone who had seen too many wars to be rattled by much of anything. Fury didn''t turn to look at her. He didn''t need to. He knew who she was, could feel the heat of her presence like a small sun standing at his back. Her aura alone was enough to remind anyone of her power. She came to a stop next to him, her arms crossed, the stars reflected in her sharp blue eyes.


    "So, Fury," Carol said bluntly, her voice cutting through the night, "What do you expect, exactly?" She asked. Fury had already told her the gist of the last few years, so she was decently caught up, just not aware of what exactly he wanted from her.


    Fury sighed, pulling another half-smoked cigar from his mouth and flicking the ash into the wind - seems like he was developing a habit... He didn''t answer right away, still staring out at the dark water. After a beat, he finally spoke, his tone rough, as if every word was a burden. "The world''s gone to shit, Danvers. Faster than even I thought possible."


    Carol raised an eyebrow, glancing down at him with an almost bored expression. "Yeah, so you''ve told me. Apocalypse shows up, wreaks havoc, and Hammer sweeps in to save the day making you look like the bad guy. That''s the gist of it, right?" Her voice was casual, but there was a sharpness to her tone that hinted at deeper frustration.


    She had to admit she was irritated that he hadn''t called her for the fight, but instead called her for the mess he''d made of his own life. She owed him, but not that much.


    Fury grunted, shifting in his seat to look up at her, his eye dark and unreadable. "Pretty much. And now, Hammer''s the one everyone''s looking to for leadership, and I''m sitting here on a boat, trying to figure out how to stop him from turning the whole planet into his personal empire."


    Carol smirked, though it didn''t reach her eyes. "Sounds like you''re a little late for that." She teased, not really seeing a problem.


    Fury didn''t respond immediately, instead lighting his cigar again and taking a long drag. The ember flared bright in the darkness, casting a brief glow on his weathered face. He exhaled slowly, the smoke drifting into the night air. "He''s got the world eating out of his hand. And I know you think it''s no big deal. Hell, maybe you even like the idea of someone bringing humanity together under one banner. But I didn''t call you here to deal with it, you wouldn''t win anyway..."


    Carol''s smirk faded slightly, her expression turning more serious as she narrowed her eyes at him. "Good. Because as far as I''m concerned, anyone who''s uplifting humanity and uniting them is doing something right. I''m not here to play cleanup for you, Nick." She eyed him hard, wondering if the last bit was a ploy to make her want to try a fight, or the man being honest for a change.


    Fury''s jaw tightened, irritation flashing across his face as he shot her a look. "You think this is something to be cavalier about? Democracy''s dying, Danvers. And you''re just¡­ Fine with that?"


    Carol shrugged, her posture loose, but her tone carried the weight of experience. "Democracy is a beautiful thing, Nick. But I''ve seen a lot of it out in space, usually as the democratic governments cry over their distress calls while strong leaders of empires or pirate politys crush them. Democracy''s only as good as the people running it. And right now, it sounds like Earth''s got a strong leader for a change."


    Fury''s lips curled into a humorless smile. "Nice to know space is so pleasant."


    Carol gave him a small, knowing smile. "It has its moments."


    They fell into a brief silence, the sound of the waves lapping against the hull filling the space between them. Fury stared out at the water, his mind racing. He wasn''t naive; he knew Carol had seen things out in the universe that he couldn''t even begin to understand. But Earth was his domain, his responsibility. And he wasn''t about to let it slip through his fingers.


    He just needed to.. Find a new angle. Come back stronger. The Avengers would hassle Hammer in the meantime, his people would ensure it. Captain America would ensure it, he wasn''t the type of person who gave up. Or changed his mind. Remarkably inflexible, but it worked for him at the moment.


    After a moment, Fury''s voice cut through the night air, low and serious. "Look, I get it. You''ve seen the bigger picture. Hell, you''ve seen more of the universe than anyone else. But no matter what you think about Hammer, he''s a threat. Maybe not in the same way as Apocalypse was or what you''ve just told me about Thanos, but he''s dangerous. And if you can''t see that, then fine. I know when my opinion isn''t wanted."


    Carol''s brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of frustration crossing her face. "You''re talking like I don''t get it, Nick. I see what''s happening, but Earth''s falling under him too quickly to stop anyway. If you really want to do something about it, you need to stop thinking like you''re still running SHIELD. You need a different angle." She shrugged seemingly not overly concerned, "Or you can just accept it, I''d go with that personally, from what you''ve told me Earth is way better off since he started making moves."


    Fury raised an eyebrow, looking up at her with a glint of interest in his eye. "Heh, of course I have an angle, but you sound like you think you know what it is already?" He completely ignored her opinion on Hammer, he wasn''t about to just give up.


    Carol crossed her arms, her expression dry as she tilted her head slightly. "You''re thinking of going up, aren''t you? Space? Trying to get help from some of your... Old neighbors?"


    Fury gave her a small, grim smile. "You always were quick. Yeah, I need to reach some people who left Earth a while ago. People who have every reason to hate Hammer, people who can be directed."


    Carol let out a huff of air, shaking her head in bemusement. "You''re really going to try to ally with those people? Are you sure about that?"


    Fury cocked his head, his gaze unwavering. "They have every reason to want to get back at Hammer. And right now, I need all the allies I can get, especially now that the Skrulls have all fled."


    Carol pursed her lips, pointing a finger at him. "I''m still not happy with how badly you screwed that up, by the way. The Skrulls trusted you, Nick, and now they''ve ditched Earth entirely because of this mess."


    Fury''s eye narrowed slightly, but he didn''t argue. He knew he''d lost the Skrulls. They''d been his ace in the hole, his hidden card. And now they were gone. "I know. But right now, that''s water under the bridge. I need to move forward. Which means I need your help getting up there."


    Carol stared at him for a long moment, her arms crossed, the tension between them palpable. Finally, she let out a long sigh, rubbing the back of her neck. "Fine. I can get you up into space. But I don''t like this, Nick. You want a meeting with the Ravagers?"


    Fury raised an eyebrow, curious. "Ravagers? That''s what T''Challa''s calling his group?"


    Carol shook her head. "No. That''s the group they took over. Well, to an extent. The Ravagers are split into two factions now. One led by this potential ally of yours. The other by Stakar Ogord, one of the more... Honorable Ravagers." She let out an amused huff, "If you can call it that¡­ But he''s still better than Udonta and his ilk that fell under your escapee''s control."


    Fury listened intently, processing the information. He wasn''t about to let go of his plan just because Carol had reservations. He was committed. "Get me to T''Challa," Fury said firmly, his voice leaving no room for argument.


    Carol shook her head again, clearly displeased with his decision. "This is a bad idea, Nick. You know it."


    Fury leaned back, his expression set in stone. "Maybe. But it''s the only play I''ve got left. And I''m going to see it through."


    Carol sighed, looking up at the sky as if searching for answers in the stars. "What about your people, Nick? You think they''re just going to sit by while you run off into space?"


    Fury''s gaze hardened, his tone firm. "Don''t worry about them. They can take care of themselves."


    Carol studied him for a long moment, her eyes narrowing slightly. There was something different about him. Something darker. "You''ve changed, Nick," She said quietly, her voice laced with disappointment. "And not for the better."


    Fury didn''t flinch, didn''t react to her words. He''d heard worse. "Maybe. But right now, I don''t have time to worry about that. Just get me to T''Challa."


    Carol shook her head again, this time with a touch of sadness. "I''ll do this for you. For old times'' sake. But that''s it."


    Fury stared her down, his jaw clenched, but after a long moment, he grunted. "Fine. Just get me to T''Challa."


    From the Skrulls he''d learned about the wider universe, and T''Challa and his people would be the first step in getting the resources to bring the fight to Hammer.


    Fury was not going to let the bastard take over his planet.


    Not on his watch.


    <hr>


    United States, Arizona.


    General Thaddeus ''Thunderbolt'' Ross sat in the back seat of a military Humvee, his grizzled face twisted in frustration as he barked orders into the satellite phone. The convoy of military vehicles rumbled steadily through the desert, the heavy tires kicking up clouds of dust under the blazing sun. Ross'' tone was cold, biting, each word more venomous than the last.


    "I don''t care if he''s disappeared off the face of the earth - find Norman Osborn and get him on the line!" He snarled, his fist tightening around the phone. "His damn armors are horseshit, and I want some goddamn answers! The last thing we need is another failure on our hands!"


    The man on the other end was stammering out excuses, but Ross wasn''t listening. His focus was razor-sharp, fury bubbling beneath the surface. Everything was falling apart faster than he could contain it, and Osborn, with his half-baked promises of power and control, had become another problem he needed to deal with.


    Suddenly, the convoy jerked to a halt. Ross lurched forward in his seat, catching himself on the back of the seat in front of him. He scowled, throwing down the phone and looking up toward his driver.


    "What the hell is going on, soldier?" Ross barked, his voice booming through the vehicle.


    The young driver swallowed hard, his eyes wide as he glanced at the General in the rearview mirror. "Uh... Sir. It''s... Uh... Iron Man. He''s holding up the convoy."


    Ross'' face darkened. "Iron Man?" His voice dropped, a dangerous edge creeping in. "What the fuck does he want?" Oh, who am I kidding, I know exactly what that brat wants to complain about¡­


    The driver hesitated, as if unsure how to respond, but Ross was already moving, unbuckling his seatbelt and reaching for the door. His bodyguard, a large, square-jawed soldier, immediately turned in his seat, his hand outstretched as if to stop the General.


    "Sir, I strongly advise you to stay inside the vehicle," The bodyguard said, his voice firm, the caution in his eyes clear. Iron Man wasn''t exactly someone they could defeat even under the best of circumstances, and right now, the tension in the air was electric due to recent happenings.


    This convoy did not hold any power armored soldiers, so they were helpless if Iron Man was hostile.


    "Put a sock in it, son," Ross snapped, shoving the door open. "He''s here to talk to me, so we''ll talk." With that, the General stepped out of the Humvee, his boots crunching in the dirt as he strode forward, eyes narrowing against the sun''s harsh glare.


    Tony Stark was hovering ten feet off the ground, his red-and-gold armor gleaming under the desert sky, repulsors glowing faintly at his hands and feet. As soon as Ross exited the vehicle, Tony descended slowly, his armored boots touching the ground with a metallic thud. The visor on his helmet slid open, revealing his face - tense, furious, eyes dark with emotion.


    "Stark," Ross said coolly, standing tall, hands clasped behind his back. "What the hell are you doing?" I always knew you would be a liability when the chips were down¡­


    Tony took a step forward, his fists clenched tight at his sides. There was a tremble in his voice as he spoke, barely contained anger boiling just beneath the surface. "I''m here to talk to you, Ross. Ask you some questions, find out what you deserve."


    Ross arched an eyebrow, his face a mask of grim professionalism. He wasn''t easily rattled. "And you couldn''t pick up a phone, Stark?" He asked, his voice tinged with sarcasm. "This isn''t exactly protocol."


    Tony''s hands twitched, the faint hum of the repulsors in his gauntlets growing louder as he struggled to keep his composure. "Why did you do it, Ross?" His voice cracked, raw and full of anguish. The question wasn''t casual. It was a demand - a searing, painful one.


    Ross didn''t bother playing dumb. He cocked his head slightly, studying Tony''s face with a steely gaze. After a long pause, he spoke, his tone calm but firm. "I wouldn''t expect you to understand the burden of command, Stark. But it was necessary to strike back in any way we could."


    Tony''s jaw clenched, his face contorting with grief and anger. His eyes were shiny with unshed tears, the pain evident in his every word. "You sent Rhodey on a suicide mission," He said, his voice shaking as he raised his hand, the whirring of the repulsor in his palm growing louder, pointed directly at Ross. The soldiers around the convoy shifted nervously, raising their weapons instinctively, but Ross held up a hand, waving them down. He never took his eyes off Tony.


    "He knew what the mission was, Stark," Ross said steadily, his voice carrying over the tension like a blade. "Colonel Rhodes didn''t hesitate for a second. He was a good soldier - a good man." His voice hardened, his eyes boring into Tony''s. "It wasn''t an ideal deployment, but we didn''t have enough other assets nearby. Reality is rarely kind, Stark. You should know that."


    Tony''s hand shook, the repulsor in his palm glowing brighter, the heat radiating from it palpable. His chest heaved as he struggled to contain the storm of emotions inside him. "That''s it?" He snarled, his voice rising. "That''s your excuse? Sending him to die because he was close?" His breath was coming in ragged gasps now, the weight of Rhodey''s death crushing him from the inside.


    Ross stepped forward, his face impassive as he approached the outstretched repulsor, ignoring the danger it posed. "Stark, Colonel Rhodes was a patriot," He said, his voice low and measured. "He was fully willing to sacrifice his life to save others. He knew what he was doing. Do you?"


    Tony''s hand twitched, the repulsor flaring with a dangerous whine, but Ross didn''t flinch. He stepped right up to the weapon, so close that the glowing energy from the repulsor cast shadows across his face.


    "What are you really doing here, Stark?" Ross asked, his voice a cold whisper now. "Are you here to kill me? Is that it? Go ahead then. Waste your friend''s sacrifice. Throw your life away. It would be apropos, wouldn''t it? You always self-destruct instead of doing the right thing. Even becoming a ''hero'' was more about your ego, wasn''t it?"


    The words hit Tony like a sledgehammer. His face twisted in pain, the insult cutting deeper than any wound. Ross had always known how to get under people''s skin, but this was different. This was personal. Neither of them had ever liked the other.


    "Sir, you can''t - " One of the soldiers began, clearly uneasy with Ross'' antagonizing, but Ross silenced him with a wave of his hand. His eyes never left Tony''s.


    "Do what you want, Stark," Ross said, his voice grim. "It''s what you''ve always done. But ask yourself this when you do it¡­ What would Colonel Rhodes have done, even if I hadn''t given him the order?" His voice lowered, a hint of emotion slipping through the cracks. "And what would he say about this?"


    Tony''s breath hitched, his eyes widening as Ross'' words sank in. His hand trembled, the glow from the repulsor flickering as doubt crept into his mind. He could feel the weight of Rhodey''s memory bearing down on him, the pain of his friend''s loss twisting in his chest like a knife.


    For a long moment, Tony stood frozen, his hand still raised, the repulsor humming in the silence. His eyes met Ross'', and for the first time, he saw something in the General''s gaze. Not regret. Not guilt. But a grim, unshakable resolve. Ross had made his decision, and he would live with it, no matter the cost. Tony could see that now.


    Rhodey would not want this¡­ Tony thought, his emotions all over the place, I''ll destroy him¡­ But I''ll do it my way¡­ Not like this.


    Slowly, with great effort, Tony lowered his hand. The repulsor dimmed, the angry red glow fading away. His breath came in shallow gasps as the weight of his grief pressed down on him. His hands fell to his sides, his shoulders slumping in defeat.


    Ross stepped back, his face still impassive, but there was a flicker of something in his eyes. "Go home, Stark," He said quietly. "There''s nothing left for you here."


    Tony didn''t respond. He didn''t have the words. Instead, he turned on his heel, his suit''s thrusters flaring to life as he lifted off the ground, shooting into the sky with a roar of repulsor fire.


    Ross watched him go, his face betraying nothing.


    As he sat back in the Humvee, he fished out a pager out of his pocket. Simply sending a message.


    Now more than ever¡­


    America needed the Sentinel program.


    <hr>


    Cairo,


    Justin stood at the center of his command room in Cairo, surrounded by a dozen screens displaying data and reports from every corner of the globe. Each monitor was flickering with news feeds, tactical updates, and intelligence briefings. The screens created a kaleidoscope of shifting information, while Justin remained calm and still at its heart. He was a man at the center of the world''s chaos, yet fully in control.


    This is where he thrived, his finger to the pulse of the world itself.


    His gaze flicked over the screens, scanning reports as they poured in - economies fluctuating, governments rattling, power structures trembling at the wake of his latest moves. His fingers tapped idly against his wrist as he read through the projections for the next quarter. Everything was moving according to plan.


    Yet the men and women at the top of the world were still afraid of him, and that fear was power, more so now than ever. The meeting with Asgard would be soon, and with how things had changed, Justin wouldn''t need to bother with pretending any of the other players at the table mattered anymore.


    Even Pierce was now at most an annoyance. Someone who could create trouble for him, but ultimately incapable of truly striking him down. It would be interesting to see if HYDRA would still try, or if they''d realize, like Emma Frost had, that it was much wiser to surrender and get a slice of the pie.


    One of the screens flashed to life, showing Sunil Bakshi''s face live from Hammerhaven. Bakshi, always the smooth-talking, sharp-eyed right-hand man, appeared slightly frazzled this time, his expression tight with frustration. The happenings over the last few days having thrown much of the world order into disarray.


    "The European Union is making noise again," Sunil began, his voice carrying the weariness of dealing with bureaucrats. "They''re discussing the possibility of breaking up your monopolies across Europe. Apparently, they''re concerned about how powerful you''ve become. The discussion is escalating fast. They''re considering measures to limit Hammer Industries in the Union. They''re calling it a ''preventative measure'' to avoid what they claim would be an economic crisis."


    Justin scoffed, crossing his arms as he leaned back, casting an indifferent glance at the other screens. He was beyond tired of this kind of nonsense. The governments of the world had long tried to put him in a box, especially the EU, but those days were over. He had grown far too powerful, and everyone knew it. If they wanted to play games, so be it, but he was done pretending. Done acting like they had any say in his business.


    "We''re done with this piddly bullshit," Justin said, his tone dismissive. He was no longer going to entertain the whims of weak governments trying to make a power grab. Not when he was certain that his growing power - both technological and divine - could withstand anything they threw at him. "I''m fairly certain," He added, his voice almost casual as his mind worked through the possibilities, "That one of my domains is going to be tied to humanity. I''ve done more to uplift this planet in a few short years than any of those pathetic politicians could dream of in their lifetimes. Let''s make sure any other domains fall under ''conqueror'' or ''ruler''." He said with bite to it, his inner circle all having been briefed on how he wanted his image to be forwarded henceforth.


    Sunil paused, his eyes widening slightly at Justin''s words. Even the workers around Sunil, visible through the background of the video feed, hesitated in their movements, momentarily taken aback by the gravity of what Justin had just implied.


    "Sir," Sunil began carefully, "Are you sure about that? Pulling out of Europe would be¡­ An unusual level of escalation, even for you. It could destabilize - "


    "Sunil," Justin interrupted, his voice cold and commanding, "Prepare a press statement. Announce that Hammer Industries is pulling out of Europe due to the governments of the Union flagrantly engaging in a power grab against the interests of their own people. Make it clear that they''re attempting to break up Hammer Industries because they see how much profit they can make by controlling my innovations themselves. Frame it as an attack on progress and a deliberate attempt to keep people poor and begging for government assistance."


    Sunil''s fingers hovered over the keyboard in front of him, his expression one of restrained shock. He wasn''t used to seeing Justin escalate things this quickly. There had always been a calculated precision to his moves, a veil of diplomacy - even when Justin was pulling the strings from behind the curtain. This, however, was a declaration of war. "Are you certain, sir?" Sunil asked again, his tone more cautious now. "This is¡­ A bold move."


    Justin grinned darkly, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of amusement and dangerous intent. "We''re strong enough not to need to pretend any longer, Sunil. We don''t have to hide, and we don''t need to play nice with these weaklings. Send out the press release." He was done with games from such weaklings as the EU.


    Without another word, Sunil turned to his console, typing furiously as he prepared the statement. The room behind him hummed with activity, his subordinates jumping into action to follow through on Justin''s orders. It was a testament to how much they needed to do that they even used keyboards anymore. Sunil no doubt using his implant to view emails even as he typed up the press statement by hand.


    From where she stood, leaning casually against a console, Domino let out a long breath, her lips curving into a playful smirk. "So," She mused aloud, "Anyone want to bet how many hours until the first European government falls?"


    Justin quietly scoffed, the European governments are weak, they won''t be able to stand against the outrage of Panacea being pulled out.


    Phantazia, who was already shifting her focus back to her own station, shook her head. "No point in betting. They''ll be lucky if they''re not lynched by mobs fearing the loss of Panacea and all those Hammer Industries jobs," She said dryly as her fingers danced across the screen in front of her. "Let''s face it, half of Europe is riding on HammerTech''s back at this point. If they think they can survive without us, they''re in for a rude awakening."


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    She turned her attention to the security feeds, her expression sharpening. "Nail," Phantazia called out, her voice steady, "Make sure every Hammer Industries security department in Europe is on full alert. I want them prepared for any retaliation from the governments - whether through legal overreach or more¡­ Direct measures."


    Domino huffed, spinning a gun around on a finger, "More likely we''ll get mobs of people breaking down the doors to try and get something out of us before we ''leave''."


    The AI''s voice chimed in to Phantazia''s request. "Yes, ma''am. All security departments are being notified. We are increasing monitoring of European governmental networks to detect any signs of retaliation once this announcement goes live."


    Yelena sidled up to Justin, her expression calm but her voice low as she delivered her own report. "Cross is on his way to Cairo. He wants to make things official as soon as possible considering recent events."


    Considering Hank wasn''t even buried yet, Cross certainly wouldn''t make many friends with his obvious greed. But Justin really didn''t care for the man anyway, so it didn''t matter overly much.


    Justin gave a minuscule nod to Yelena, his eyes narrowing slightly as he thought over it he even wanted to meet the man. "Fine," He muttered, his mind already jumping ahead to the meeting. "Set up a short fifteen-minute meet and greet. I won''t need more time than that to tie that fool into knots."


    Pym Industries, soon to be rebranded as Cross Industries, would be independent in name only. Justin''s people had already been planted deep within its infrastructure before Hank died, and the moment Darren Cross took over, his control over Pym particles would be cemented. It was a delicate play, but one that would work in the end. Cross would think he had won, taking over the legacy of Hank Pym, but in reality, he''d be nothing more than a puppet.


    Yelena nodded again, this time with a slight smirk playing at her lips. "We''ve already placed a Black Widow as his personal assistant. She''ll make sure he stays in his lane."


    Justin''s smirk mirrored hers, his voice taking on a humorless edge. "In his lane, or suffering from a heart attack, just like Hank Pym," He said darkly. "Widows are very effective tools when used properly, you run a good team, Yelena."


    To her credit, Yelena looked uncomfortable with the mention of Pym, having started to build a somewhat friendly rivalry with Hope before¡­ Everything. Justin envied her having the luxury of caring. He had no choice but to move forward, until one day he could bring her back, and he''d have her company waiting for her when she did. She''d hate him, but she''d be alive.


    He would live with it. If he found a way. And there would be one. I won''t lose¡­ Not permanently. He told himself quietly.


    There was a brief pause before Nail''s voice spoke up again, this time with an update. "Sir, most of the Avengers have been released from custody. Namor, however, is still being held while negotiations regarding a price for his release continue."


    Yelena''s lips curled in disgust, a sneer of disbelief crossing her face. "That was quick. Too quick. I can''t believe they let them go after their ties to Fury were revealed, let alone their ties to Namor after what he did."


    Justin shrugged, unbothered by the news. "We knew it would happen. Even the American government knows how much they''re under my thumb at this point. They probably see the Avengers as a potential counterbalance to me - a way to mitigate my influence with the public in future conflicts." He shook his head, almost amused. "It won''t work, of course. Too little, too late."


    Domino hummed thoughtfully, leaning against the console as she stretched. "They''ve lost Banner, anyway," She said. "Nail''s tracked him sneaking around Greece. Looks like the big guy got tossed quite the distance after the battle. Doesn''t seem like he''s tried contacting anyone yet."


    Phantazia piped in, "We can offer an olive branch perhaps, it''s better to know where the Hulk is, then have him randomly show up again like he did against Apocalypse."


    Before Justin could comment, Nail spoke up again, her tone more urgent. "Iron Man also appears to have left the Avengers after a fight in holding, although I was not able to parse it all due to Jarvis being in the system and actively hindering me. After the Avengers were released, he didn''t rejoin them. We''re monitoring a confrontation between Stark and General Ross right now. Tony''s repulsor is aimed directly at Ross as we speak."


    Justin rubbed a hand across his face, his expression weary. "Tony, you idiot," He muttered under his breath. He should have seen it coming himself, but to be fair, he''d been ridiculously busy, and hardly had time for Tony at the moment. "There''s nothing we can do, just keep me updated." He told Nail, going back to his screens, sending off another message to Sunil, asking about some weird movements in the Chinese markets.


    Nail continued her report a few minutes later. "Iron Man has taken off without firing a shot. Ross has also just sent a message to one of the contacts we''ve been tracking. It appears that Ross is connected to the Sentinel program, and he''s backing it."


    Justin''s hand fell to his side, his posture straightening as the news sank in. "The Sentinel program?" He repeated, his eyes narrowing dangerously. "Ross is involved?"


    Nail''s voice remained steady as she answered. "Yes, sir. We''ve tracked a number of suppliers and personnel involved with the program before as you know, but this is the highest link we''ve uncovered so far."


    Justin''s mind was already spinning, processing the implications. The Sentinel program had been a thorn in his side - an initiative designed to create metahuman-hunting machines capable of wiping out entire populations if unchecked. But they had never been able to locate the base of operations. Nor had they found someone able to lead them straight there, even their logistic chains somehow ending up disappearing half way through without Nail able to find out how. They had eyes on Ross all the time, so he wasn''t an active participant, but knowing Ross, he wouldn''t be part of something where he had no clue where the principal of the program was.


    With Ross involved, there was a chance they weren''t solely after metahumans anymore. And there would only be one other enemy that was threatening American sovereignty enough¡­ Him.


    "Sorry, Tony," Justin thought to himself with grim amusement. "Looks like you won''t get to have your revenge after all."


    Justin turned to Yelena, his eyes hard and sharp. "I want you to personally lead a team and bring me Ross," Justin ordered. "We''re not waiting for this to blow up. I want that base now. If Ross knows where the Sentinels are being developed or who''s doing it, I want it out of him before he even realizes what''s happening."


    Their interrogation of Magneto had only barely begun, the man held inside the mirror dimension, Kaecillius his jailor. From him they''d found out that Trask had actually been working with Sinister for some reason - hence why they''d taken him back in exchange for Phantazia. Which didn''t make sense, as Sinister had no reason to be part of what began as an anti-metahuman project.


    They''d have to speed up the interrogation, Justin''s only regret being that he was too busy to sit in and get a front row seat to enjoy Magneto''s comeuppance. He was a powerful man, one Justin had intended to use against Thanos and against the Chitauri and Loki.


    But now¡­ He couldn''t trust the man out and about again, and he certainly wouldn''t let him out after almost succeeding in killing Domino.


    Yelena, ever the professional, didn''t hesitate at his order. Her expression was pleased as she immediately moved to another console, pulling up Ross''s schedule and any intel Nail had gathered on his movements. "I''ll put together a team," She said, already focused on her task. "Nail, pull up Ross''s latest movements and all his email and phone conversations and send them to my terminal."


    Nail''s holographic avatar flickered to life in the center of the room, nodding in acknowledgment. "Data is already on your screen, Yelena. I''ve mapped out all known coordinates for General Ross''s travel routes and potential locations for the next week."


    Yelena began to issue orders to her Black Widows and other operatives, already beginning to create a seamless plan of attack - picking her city of choice and beginning to move people there while looking through the information to craft her plan. Justin watched for a moment, satisfied. There was no room for error here - Ross had played his last hand, and now it was time for Justin to strike back before he became a problem. Quickly and decisively.


    While Yelena worked, Justin turned back to the numerous screens, each one showing different intelligence, different crises. His mind was working through the calculations, assessing the risks and rewards.


    "Nail," Justin said slowly, "Any luck finding Sinister yet?" He knew she would have told him if there was any news, but his frustration on this matter made him ask anyway. How did you get away?


    The AI''s avatar of a redheaded irish woman flickered, her expression apologetic. "Unfortunately, no, sir. We''ve conducted another full sweep of the floating city, but there has been no sign of Nathaniel Essex. He''s not appeared on any of our surveillance feeds across Africa either, though I must admit, our coverage in certain regions is less than ideal."


    Justin clenched his jaw, holding back a surge of frustration. Sinister was slippery, and his disappearance after the failed interrogation of a body double was maddening. He had to be hiding somewhere - he wasn''t that capable surely? To simply vanish without a trace. But the clock was ticking, and Justin knew that every day Sinister remained at large was a day he could be planning something devastating.


    "Keep looking," Justin growled. "I don''t care what it takes - find him."


    Nail nodded, her hologram shimmering as she processed his orders. "Yes, sir."


    Justin''s attention shifted to another pressing matter. "What about Captain Marvel?" He asked, his voice tinged with impatience. "Has she made any moves yet?"


    Nail''s hologram tilted her head, pulling up the relevant data. "Captain Marvel entered Earth''s atmosphere approximately nine hours ago. We tracked her meeting with Nick Fury on a tanker, but now both of them have completely vanished from our sensors. I am unaware of how they managed to evade our satellite surveillance."


    Justin frowned, his brow furrowing as he considered the implications. Carol Danvers had too much raw power to ignore. If she aligned herself with Fury in an adversarial way, it could pose a serious problem. But, from what his gut told him, she was more likely to stay out of Earth''s affairs unless provoked. Still, it was a wild card he couldn''t afford to overlook.


    "Keep a satellite on that tanker," Justin ordered. "I don''t care how they''re hiding - track it. If Fury''s people are moving, I want to know about it."


    Nail responded promptly, "Already dispatched a ship to follow the tanker, sir. We''ll know if they make any sudden moves and they stand ready to arrest everybody onboard."


    Justin assumed that if Fury wasn''t attacking, he was plotting escape, but Carol Danvers couldn''t just pick the man up and fly up into Space, neither had Nail clocked the woman flying back into space either. So what are you two doing?


    As far as he was aware, SHIELD had not had a secret space ship or anything of the sort. So how were they getting off the planet? Remaining Skrulls? Nail had managed to find a few ships leaving right after the press conference, even if she lost them when they went into stealth, she''d caught the energy fluctuations when they took off.


    Just as Justin was about to turn his attention to the next matter, Nail''s voice interrupted him. "Sir, Storm is here to see you."


    That caught his attention. Justin paused for a moment, considering the timing. Ororo Munroe, one of the X-Men''s leaders and a powerful metahuman, rarely made it to see him, not without a reason. Given recent developments, he wasn''t entirely surprised though. The X-Men had been quiet since Apocalypse''s downfall, but Justin had kept tabs on them. And Storm''s arrival suggested that she had something important to discuss.


    He was hopeful it would be in his favor.


    "Perfect timing," Justin muttered to himself. "Let her in." He glanced around the room at his team. "Keep me updated on all developments," He ordered, his voice authoritative. "I''ll deal with this personally."


    As he stepped away from the screens and monitors, Domino fell in behind him, her hand casually resting on one of her pistols. She didn''t speak, but her presence was a comforting reminder that Justin was never without his best operatives. Not that she was as needed as before, now that Justin had greatly increased his power.


    His thoughts turned to the power stone, which was in a secure location, just one portal away. He sent a message to Nail as he walked, to double the surveillance on the Tesseract, he wasn''t entirely interested in grabbing it for himself yet, leery of collecting too many stones in one location. But in case Fury intended to have Carol go for it before they left¡­ He wanted assets nearby to delay them while he and his team mustered to stop them.


    They moved through the hallways of the Cairo compound, passing armed guards and security checkpoints. When they reached the meeting room, the doors slid open with a soft hiss, revealing Storm standing in the center. Her white hair was striking as always against her dark skin, and her presence seemed to command the air around her. She was regal, composed, and every bit as powerful and beautiful as ever.


    "Ororo," Justin greeted, his tone even as he stepped inside, his eyes carefully reading her body language. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"


    Ororo smiled, her expression calm and composed. "I''ve made up my mind," She said, her voice smooth but firm.


    Justin raised an eyebrow, intrigued but also guarded. He had always seen potential in Ororo to join him, yet he knew she was not the type to make rash decisions and he''d been cautious not to push too far too soon. "And what exactly do you mean by that?" He asked, the tone of his voice firm yet curious.


    Ororo paused for a moment, collecting her thoughts, then smiled again, this time with a hint of vulnerability that Justin had never quite seen in her before. "I''ve loved working for you," She admitted. "The help we''ve given to people, the changes we''ve made, especially in Africa¡­ I''ve felt useful, truly useful, in a way I never thought possible. For the first time in my life, I believe I''m actually making a difference."


    Justin watched her intently, but before he could respond, Domino, always quick to undercut any sincerity in the room, snorted. "Oh, now that he''s powerful enough to challenge the world, that''s when you want in?" She mocked, her voice laced with playful sarcasm.


    Ororo remained composed, not taking the bait. She turned toward Domino, her cool demeanor unwavering. "Not exactly how it happened, but if that''s what makes you feel better about this situation, you''re welcome to that view."


    Domino raised an eyebrow but didn''t press further, though her smirk never faded.


    Ororo turned back to Justin, her expression softening, though her words were filled with purpose. "You''ve done more for metahumans than anyone ever has. You''ve protected this world against threats like Apocalypse when we failed - you''ve proven your sincerity beyond a doubt."


    A weight seemed to settle over the room as her words sank in. The mention of Apocalypse was a reminder to all of them of just how close the world had come to total destruction. Justin, who prided himself on results, let her continue, curious to see where she was leading with this. Fairly certain he knew, and feeling pretty pleased about it, even if he let nothing show.


    Ororo exhaled softly, as if releasing a burden she had been carrying. "I''ll admit, Mister Hammer¡­ I''ve been too much of an idealist, and that kept me at arm''s length from you. I knew you had blood behind your rise to power. I knew you were a man who wouldn''t hesitate to do whatever it takes, even if it meant making morally dubious decisions."


    Justin''s gaze sharpened, but he didn''t interrupt. He let her speak, watching her intently, trying to gauge what was really motivating her in all this.


    Ororo smiled self-deprecatingly. "Charles showed me the truth in Cairo even if he hardly had meant to showcase it as such. There is no ''good side''. Only different shades of gray. Maybe I needed to grow up a little... Understand that the world isn''t as black and white as I once thought."


    She straightened, her shoulders pulling back as if she''d come to a resolution which did wonderful things with her breasts, Justin''s eyes drawn there immediately, before he looked up again to meet her gaze. Her eyes, those clear orbs filled with passion and strength, met Justin''s directly, seemingly pleased at his attention. "I want in. On your team. On your revolution. I''ve realized now that if you want to make lasting change, you have to break a few eggs along the way. I may never be fully comfortable with it, but the world doesn''t change without sacrifices. It never has."


    Truer words were never spoken, Justin thought, history had shown that there was no such thing as change - without death or injustice along the way.


    Justin''s smile grew slowly, a gleam of satisfaction lighting his eyes. This was the Ororo he had hoped to see for a long time - someone who understood the real world, someone who saw the bigger picture. "That''s quite something, Ororo," He said, the hint of approval evident in his tone. "And I have to say, I''ll gladly take you on my team. But as for my inner circle... That''s a different story. That will take time, loyalty, and proof of your commitment."


    Ororo nodded, seemingly understanding the terms. "Of course. Trust is earned, not given. I''m willing to prove myself."


    She then glanced to the side, almost as if weighing her next words carefully. "Jean is teetering on the edge of joining you as well," She said quietly. "I can get her on board." She paused, a small smile on her lips, "She isn''t the only one who''s reached out to me about the same," She teased.


    Justin hummed thoughtfully, his mind already working through the possibilities. Jean Grey, the telepathic powerhouse, would be an asset beyond measure, although kept only in the clean parts of the business of course. "A good start," He said, his mood visibly lightening. "Very good indeed."


    They hadn''t made any progress in waking Electro up, so worst case, they''d replace the man with Storm, a complete upgrade. Despite the growing list of challenges he faced, from dealing with Sinister''s escape to Tony Stark''s spiraling instability, the prospect of having Storm and possibly Jean Grey as part of his operation felt like a win that was hard to pass up.


    Ororo''s gaze flicked over to Domino, and she hesitated before speaking again. "Could we talk alone?" She asked, her voice soft but direct, the way she positioned herself, flaunted her body - certainly spoke volumes.


    Domino, narrowed her eyes and tilted her head mockingly. "Slut," She muttered under her breath, smirking all the while.


    Ororo barely gave her the satisfaction of a reaction, merely raising an eyebrow before turning her attention back to Justin. "Sir? A moment of privacy, if you would." She said, standing proud even as she obviously offered herself. If he wasn''t completely misjudging everything.


    Justin considered the request. Having Ororo act so deferentially was certainly a change from their previous interactions, he waved Domino off with a flick of his wrist. "It''s fine," Ge said. "Go on." He smiled at Ororo, "We''ll talk in private."


    Domino shot Ororo a final look, clearly unimpressed, but did as she was told. She exited the room, leaving the two of them alone. Justin would probably have to do something nice for her later. She knew how much she enjoyed watching.


    Once the door clicked shut, the atmosphere in the room seemed to shift. Ororo''s posture relaxed slightly, but she maintained her composure. Her words from before were still heavy in the air, and though she had opened up about her change of heart, Justin could sense there was something more she wasn''t saying.


    There was a long pause, the two of them standing across from one another, the weight of their positions clear. Ororo had always been a force of nature, both literally and figuratively, and Justin knew she didn''t make decisions lightly so this decision was a big one.


    She stepped forward, closing the distance between them, before kneeling before him, her cleavage on display even more beautifully from her submissive position. "You''ve done so much," She said, her voice softer now. "For metahumans. For this world. For my people. Africa is changing under your guidance - children who once faced starvation now have hope. You''ve saved my friends, you''ve given so many a future that they could never have dreamed of."


    Her eyes locked with his, her gratitude palpable. She wasn''t here to beg for a place at his table at this moment, nor was she here to manipulate him. She was genuinely thankful for what he had accomplished, and her loyalty, at least in this moment, seemed real.


    Justin smiled faintly, his voice cool but intrigued. "You''re full of surprises today, Ororo. I appreciate the honesty." As much as it surprises me, I hadn''t seen this coming at all.


    Ororo nodded, breathing deeply, smiling seductively as his eyes were drawn to her bust, her voice was unwavering as she continued. "I''ve come to realize that you don''t save the world by following the rules. You change the world by bending them, sometimes breaking them for the greater good. That''s something I''m learning to accept, and I want to be part of that change. I''m ready to help, in whatever way you need." With incredible skill, wind caressed Ororo''s form, her top slowly unwound until she was left topless before him.


    There was a sincerity in her tone that couldn''t be ignored. She wasn''t just paying him lip service; she was offering her commitment, her strength, and her leadership in whatever came next. As well as her body, and he had to admit for all her skill, that''s the part he was most interested in at the moment.


    Justin''s smile grew, this time warmer. "Well, Ororo, I have to say... I''m impressed. And I''ll gladly accept your help." He eyed her, taking note of the way she squirmed on her knees, the flushed cheeks, someone has discovered a submissive side, huh¡­


    "You''re going to enjoy it here, I can already tell."


    <hr>


    Several days later, Washington D.C


    The congressional hearing room was packed, a sea of cameras and flashing lights filling the space as journalists jostled for position to capture every second of Justin Hammer''s testimony. The air was heavy with tension, as Justin walked in with the same casual arrogance that had made him a household name. His expensive suit was tailored to perfection, every movement he made purposeful and fluid. He looked more like a man stepping into a boardroom to close a deal than someone being called to account for the chaos he''d unleashed across Europe.


    Congress was in uproar, even the men and women owned by Justin unable to keep quiet.


    Several European governments had collapsed since Justin''s bold and unprecedented move to pull out of the European Union, claiming the EU''s attempts to limit his monopolies were nothing more than a power grab. In some countries, leaders had resigned in disgrace, unable to weather the political storm that followed his departure. But worse still were the riots. Two smaller countries had seen their parliaments overrun by angry mobs, furious at the thought of losing access to Hammer''s technology, healthcare systems, and Panacea, the medical breakthrough that had revolutionized global health. The governments had been deposed, the streets soaked with blood as civilians turned on their own leaders.


    In other countries, like Germany, the military had been deployed to pacify their people before it got that far, but that on its own had created an unsustainable situation for its government.


    It was a disaster of unprecedented scale, and Justin stood at the center of it all.


    As he sat down at the table before the congressional panel, his face betrayed not an ounce of concern. In fact, he seemed almost amused by the entire situation. He leaned back in his chair, hands resting casually in his lap, his expression one of barely contained disdain.


    The lead congressman, Representative Hawkins, began the proceedings with an air of barely suppressed anger. His voice boomed across the chamber as he gestured toward Justin with evident frustration.


    "Mr. Hammer, do you have any idea of the consequences of your actions? European governments are collapsing! Innocent lives have been lost in violent uprisings! And yet, here you sit, completely unphased!" He barked, Hawkins, one of the men not owned by Justin outright.


    Not that Justin had stopped this hearing by utilizing his influence, he''d told his puppets to let it happen. After all, he was done pretending he wasn''t humanity''s only hope.


    Justin raised an eyebrow, at Hawkins'' question, seemingly bored already. He glanced at his watch, then back at Hawkins, his voice cool and dismissive. "Congressman, I''m well aware of what''s happening in Europe. But let''s not pretend like this hearing is about some moral high ground. You dragged me here to try and slap my wrist, but we both know that''s not going to happen."


    The room filled with murmurs from the congressional representatives and the press alike. Hawkins'' face reddened with outrage, but before he could respond, a woman on the panel cut in, Representative Morales, her voice sharp and filled with frustration.


    "Mr. Hammer, people have died because of your actions. Do you feel any responsibility for what''s happening across Europe?" She asked, leaning forward with barely contained anger.


    How quickly they forgot he saved the world, saved New York, just days ago, he thought with amusement. Governments really are useless¡­


    Justin smirked, leaning forward over the microphone, his eyes cold and unflinching. "Responsibility? I''m a businessman, Congresswoman. There''s nothing in the law that says I have to stay in a market if governments don''t want me around. I made a decision based on business. If those governments couldn''t handle the fallout, well¡­ That''s their problem, not mine."


    The room erupted in noise - gasps, muttering, the furious scribbling of notes from reporters. Several congressmen exchanged incredulous looks, clearly taken aback by Justin''s flippant attitude. Even his own men and women seemed flabbergasted at his response.


    Hawkins slammed his hand down on the table. "That''s not what happened, and you damn well know it! You weren''t forced out - you pulled out because they were negotiating, trying to work with your monopolies! To find a way to make business more equitable. We''re asking is for you to answer the question properly, Mr. Hammer!"


    Justin leaned back in his chair, clasping his hands behind his head in a posture of complete confidence, his smirk widening. "Oh, I''ll answer it properly," He said, his voice dripping with arrogance. "I knew exactly what would happen, and I still did it. And I''ll tell you why." His gaze swept over the room, the weight of his words filling the chamber. "Because those governments - and you, frankly - are now facing a simple choice. Fight me, and make your people suffer for it, or let me do my thing, and you get jobs, healthcare, security¡­ Hell, maybe even happiness. It''s up to you."


    Sorry Ellis, I''m creating trouble for you but¡­ I don''t need you anymore.


    The sheer brazenness of his words left the room in stunned silence. One congressman, an older man at the far end of the table, was visibly shaking as he spoke into the microphone. "Do you¡­ Do you even understand what you''re saying, Mr. Hammer?"


    Justin didn''t even blink. He leaned in, his smirk now a full grin, his voice calm and deliberate. "Oh, I understand perfectly. I''m saying that for the good of the world, governments should stop pretending and acknowledge that Hammer Industries is a mega-corporation responsible for nearly every good thing happening on this planet. I''m saying they should stop resisting my efforts and let me do what I do best - make the world better."


    Another representative, a woman with sharp glasses and a fiery gaze, glared at him. "Are you implying that the only way forward for humanity is to fall in line behind you?"


    Justin chuckled, as though she had just asked the most ridiculous question in the world. "That''s not an implication. That''s a fact. And the best part? I already have the public''s support. The people agree with me. Go ahead, do any poll you want. Hell, call for a national vote - I dare you."


    Europe alone was proof of the matter, the fact he was turning into a bonafide God with a capital G off of humanity''s faith in him, said enough. Every government on Earth would know, would have proof, that the people on this planet, given the choice between Hammer Industries or their government, their nation¡­


    Would tear their government down to continue to prosper under the umbrella of Panacea, of guaranteed jobs for everyone, of security against alien threats. Before this hearing, the amount of Skrulls found in the government had been released, further showing the world that between Hammer and the rest of the world - there was only one choice in protecting the world.


    The room once again erupted into chaos. Members of Congress were beside themselves, some of them standing in outrage, others furiously whispering to their aides. The press was frantically snapping pictures, the clicking of cameras almost deafening.


    But Justin wasn''t done. His eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he leaned even closer to the microphone, his voice lowering to a dangerous tone. "Let me make this crystal clear for all of you. We live in a time where alien invasions aren''t science fiction - they''re a reality. And I''m the only one who can protect you from what''s out there. So here''s the deal - I leave you with a choice. Get with the program, or face the new world reality without me. Do it yourselves. Good luck with that."


    He stood up abruptly, adjusting his suit with a casual flick of his wrist, as if the entire congressional hearing had been nothing more than a minor inconvenience. His smirk returned, full of condescension and self-assuredness. "But we already know what your answer will be," He added, a laugh bubbling in his throat.


    The lead congressman, Hawkins, looked like he was on the verge of a heart attack. He stood up, pointing at Justin, his voice quivering with anger. "This hearing isn''t over, Mr. Hammer! Sit back down! You can''t just -"


    But Justin had already turned his back, walking calmly toward the exit, ignoring the shouts and demands behind him. His footsteps echoed through the chamber as he strode out, completely unfazed.


    As he left the room, the chaos inside continued to boil over, but outside, the world continued to crumble under the weight of Justin''s influence.


    In Europe, cities were in turmoil. Governments, once bastions of power, had fallen like dominoes. In France, the prime minister had resigned after failing to contain the protests that erupted in response to Hammer Industries'' withdrawal. In Spain, riots had broken out in Madrid, where citizens had stormed government buildings, furious over the sudden collapse of industries and services that Hammer''s companies had once provided. The healthcare system, once bolstered by Panacea, was now crumbling with most normal hospitals no longer operational, and with it, the trust in the government.


    And in smaller countries, like Luxembourg and Slovakia, the situation had grown even more dire. Parliamentarians had been dragged from their seats by mobs of enraged citizens, their offices ransacked, and their rule violently ended. The bloodbath in Slovakia''s parliament had been the final straw, a brutal reminder of just how fragile governments could be when the people turned against them. The EU was already begging him to return, promising unlimited authority in their economies.


    Justin knew all of this, of course. He had planned for it. The governments of Europe were learning a hard lesson - they were replaceable. He wasn''t. And now, standing before the world, he had just driven that message home once again.


    As he walked out of the building, the sun gleaming off the glass doors of the Capitol, Justin couldn''t help but smile, he ignored the call that had been going on since he stepped into the building, Ellis desperately calling again and again.


    This was just the beginning.


    Even the President of the United States was nothing before him now.


    <hr>


    Hours later, bar in New York city,


    Justin strode into the dimly lit bar in New York City with an air of casual authority, trailed only by Domino, who was silently scanning the room. The bar was empty except for one patron sitting at the head of the counter - Tony Stark. He sat hunched over, clad in his Iron Man armor sans helmet, but looking anything but heroic. His face was pale, his hair disheveled, and his eyes were dark-ringed with exhaustion. The bottle of whiskey in front of him was nearly empty, and he didn''t even bother to look up as Justin approached.


    The bartender had clearly taken the night off - or perhaps been paid to leave. Justin smirked as he closed the distance, his polished shoes clicking against the worn wooden floor.


    "Well, well, well," Justin said, his voice thick with amusement. "Look at the great Tony Stark, sitting here in his armor, stinking up the place like a washed-up drunk. You really know how to make an impression."


    Tony barely shifted, his gaze fixed on the glass in front of him. He took a slow sip before answering, his voice hoarse and low. "What do you want, Hammer?"


    Justin''s smirk widened. "What do I want? I came here to see what happened to the genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist. The man who could stand toe-to-toe with anyone in the world. And yet, here you are, sulking in a bar, smelling like a week''s worth of bad decisions."


    Tony didn''t reply immediately. His hand trembled slightly as he set the glass down, his fingers brushing the edge of the table with a soft clink.


    Justin''s eyes narrowed as he watched Tony closely. This wasn''t the man who had once been his rival, the man whose mind could create wonders and shape the future. This was a shadow of him. He doesn''t get to lay down and die, he doesn''t get to mourn, not when I have to keep going with not a minute of rest.


    "You know," Justin said, his tone turning mocking, "I thought you had more backbone. I get that Rhodes'' death hit hard, but you''re sitting here wallowing in self-pity while the world moves on. You really think this is what he would''ve wanted? You think Pepper''s thrilled you''ve decided to drown yourself in booze instead of being there for her?"


    That got a reaction. Tony''s hand twitched again, his jaw tightening as he slowly turned his head to face Justin. His eyes, bloodshot and weary, glared at him with a flicker of anger. "You don''t get to talk about Rhodey. Not you."


    Justin scoffed, crossing his arms. "Oh, come on. We all lose people. But you don''t see me sitting in some dingy bar, hiding in my suit like a coward. No, Tony, I''m still out there, fighting, fixing this mess of a world. And what are you doing? Moping. It''s pathetic."


    Tony''s fist clenched, and for a moment, Justin thought he might actually do something. Then, suddenly, Tony swung. It was a weak, sloppy punch - nothing like the precision or power the Iron Man suit was capable of. Justin easily sidestepped it, slapping Tony''s arm away with casual ease, as if brushing off a fly.


    "Really? That''s all you''ve got?" Justin said, his voice full of derision. "You''re not even close to being my rival anymore, Tony. Get over yourself. The world needs us, and right now, you''re not part of that equation."


    Tony staggered slightly, recovering from his failed punch. He slumped back down on the barstool, a mixture of frustration and shame written across his face. "You think I don''t know that?" He muttered, his voice thick with emotion. "Rhodey¡­ Ross sent him to die, Justin. He didn''t have to¡­ He shouldn''t have¡­"


    Justin''s eyes flashed with irritation. "And? You think this is the first time someone''s been sent on a suicide mission? Ross made a call - maybe a bad one - but that''s war. Rhodes knew the risks. He was a soldier. He didn''t hesitate. And now, you''re letting his death bury you instead of honoring what he stood for."


    He didn''t honestly agree with Ross, it was still a stupid decision, there was a reason Justin hadn''t sent his power armored people into New York until Magneto was taken care of. But Rhodes was dead, and Ross was going to be taken down by him, so he didn''t need Tony continuing on this self-destructive path. Even with Forge working for him, they needed Stark industries, they needed Stark, to continue to push the world forward, to continue pushing into space. They could do without him, but with him sped things up.


    Tony blinked rapidly, as though trying to blink away tears. His voice wavered slightly. "You know what it''s like¡­ To lose someone that close, someone -"


    "Don''t." Justin''s voice turned cold, cutting through Tony''s words like a knife. "Don''t you dare try to commiserate with me about Hope. You didn''t even know how special she was. So don''t sit there and act like we''re in the same boat."


    Tony''s face tightened as he stared at Justin, his thoughts clearly racing, but he remained silent.


    Justin shook his head, annoyed, and grabbed the bottle of whiskey in front of Tony. He poured the last of it into Tony''s glass, then snatched it up and downed the entire thing in one gulp. Slamming the glass on the bar, he leaned in closer to Tony.


    "Listen to me, Tony," Justin said, his voice low and forceful. "We''ve got aliens coming out of the woodwork. You''ve seen it yourself. We need a moon base, asteroid mining - hell, we need half a dozen things yesterday, and you''re here, wasting time. The planet doesn''t have time for you to sit around crying over spilt milk."


    Tony glanced at him, his expression hardening slightly. "Yeah, I''ve seen what''s out there. I''ve also seen the mess you''re making back on Earth. Europe''s in flames, Congress is ready to come after you.. Half the world is turning on you."


    Justin let out a dismissive laugh. "Congress? Please. Tell me, Tony - do you believe the government can do a better job than me? Or SHIELD? You think they''d do better than the two of us combined? Tell me you honestly believe that."


    Tony didn''t answer right away. His brow furrowed, and he stared down at the empty glass in front of him. The silence stretched on as Justin watched him, waiting for a response.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Tony muttered, "Democracy¡­ It''s important."


    Justin scoffed again, louder this time, his tone dripping with disdain. "To who? Tell me who does it better? Look at the last hundred years, Tony. People''s lives may seem like they''re improving, but they''re just becoming more enslaved to a system that doesn''t work, broken under an ever grinding wheel. And that system? It''s failing them more every day. I''m not saying I''m a saint, but I can get things done. And you know that."


    Tony frowned, rubbing his temples as if trying to fend off the logic of Justin''s argument. "It''s not fair that you''re making sense."


    Justin grinned, but there was no humor in it. "Life''s not fair, Tony. Now, call Pepper. Get back on your feet. You''ve got a choice here. Either get your ass back to the space program, help build what we need to survive the future, or go join the Avengers on their democracy crusade." He chuckled darkly. "Their bastion of democracy, Namor, must be thrilled to have you on board."


    Tony''s gaze flickered at the mention of the Avengers, but he remained silent, staring down into the empty glass like it held the answers he needed.


    Justin straightened his jacket and turned toward the door, his voice carrying over his shoulder as he made his exit. "Get it together, Stark. The world doesn''t wait for anyone. Not even you."


    And with that, he walked out, leaving Tony Stark alone with his thoughts, a broken man in a suit of armor, still trying to figure out how to put the pieces of his life back together.


    <hr>

 Turning Point.

    <hr>


    Three weeks after Apocalypse.


    Carol Danvers crashed through the first wall of the Tesseract facility like a comet, leaving a shower of debris in her wake. The impact shook the entire structure, setting off alarms that blared frantically, filling the air with high-pitched urgency. Lights flickered and pulsed red as the facility went into full lockdown, and a chorus of panicked shouts echoed down the corridors.


    The place was a labyrinth of concrete and steel sunk deep into the ground, clearly designed to withstand any assault short of an all-out war. But Carol moved through it with a terrifying ease, her glowing fists tearing through reinforced walls, floors and barriers as if they were made of paper. She made a conscious effort to avoid the load-bearing supports, her senses easily guiding her around them as she tore a path straight toward the heart of the facility where she knew the Tesseract was kept.


    Fury had already infiltrated, it was on his signal that she''d finally struck. She wasn''t enthused about this, but she didn''t think Fury was lying about the current state of SHIELD, and leaving them the Tesseract was probably a bad idea. Almost as bad of an idea as letting Fury have it¡­


    Earth really wasn''t like the good old days anymore, she lamented. At least this Hammer seemed to be doing a decent job cleaning it all up¡­ Not that she bothered arguing the fact with Fury. One last favor, that was all she could stomach in all of this. Then she''d wash her hands of the whole thing.


    As she continued on, the walls crumbled beneath her flight, doors melted under the heat of her energy blasts, and entire sections of the facility were rendered unrecognizable as she barreled through, a living battering ram of sheer, unstoppable power. Security personnel scattered before her, their shouted commands and hurried attempts to contain the situation drowned out by the cacophony of alarms and the relentless roar of her destruction.


    She had no reason to harm them, couldn''t separate the innocent from the guilty, so she simply sped straight through.


    "Contain her! All units, converge on the target!" a voice bellowed over the intercom, but it was clear that no one knew what to do. Carol''s pace didn''t falter as she continued her advance, blasting through another floor with a brilliant explosion of light that momentarily illuminated a large section of the facility.


    She floated through the smoke and dust, only to find herself facing the business end of a tank shell, the massive projectile rocketing toward her face with deadly precision. There was a split second of stunned silence as everyone held their breath.


    Then the shell slammed into her, and the explosion rocked the room, fire and shrapnel erupting outward in a deafening blast. When the smoke cleared, Carol stood in the same spot, her hand resting casually on her hip, not a scratch on her. She cocked an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at her lips.


    "Bit presumptive to shoot such a big load on my face so early," She quipped, brushing some imaginary dust off her shoulder. "We''ve just met."


    The two armored figures standing before her exchanged a glance, their surprise evident even through the mechanical visors. One was hanging from the ceiling, wings flared out wide, while the other crouched low, a massive stinger-like tail arched menacingly over its head.


    "Okay, I like her," Said the one hanging from the ceiling, his voice crackling through the armor''s speakers.


    Carol put a finger to her lips, feigning coyness. "Please be gentle," She purred mockingly, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "I haven''t been double-teamed in a while." The grin on her face undercut any pretense of coyness, her whole demeanor radiating pure, unfiltered confidence.


    This whole visit to Earth had been horrible, so she might be feeling a mite playful now that she had opposition that might last a round or two.


    The man in the Scorpion-like armor hesitated for only a moment before a dry, gravelly voice murmured through his speakers. "Rumlow, stay on task."


    Rumlow, the man inside the armor hanging off the ceiling, just laughed, the sound crackling over the comms. "Okay, scratch that. I love her. No one told me she was fun!"


    The words were barely out of his mouth before both armors unleashed a barrage of firepower without hesitation. Missiles streaked toward Carol, a veritable storm of munitions, while energy beams and bullets ripped through the air. The room erupted into chaos, flashes of light and the roar of weapons fire filling the confined space.


    At the same time from around the corner, came the rapid thud of heavy boots on metal. Carol saw another figure appear, this one clad in a suit reminiscent of Captain America''s, but with a gleaming metal arm. In his hands was some sort of grenade launcher glowing , already primed and aimed directly at her.


    He fired a dozen grenades, the launcher''s mechanism spinning with ruthless efficiency. The room filled with smoke and gas, chemical compounds designed to impair and disorient clouding the air around her, even as some sort of foam expanded all the way down the corridor from a grenade.


    She had to give them props for coordination as she also heard a distinct whine from behind her. As she casually slapped away a few missiles, uncaring of the explosions, thankful even, as it cleared up some of the chemical gas she was ignoring, she turned to see a figure clad in sleek, silver colored armor step into view, twin whips of crackling energy whips snapping through the air toward her.


    Carol laughed, a sound full of amusement as she dodged the whips with casual grace. "Four on one is a bit much for a first date, boys," She called out, her tone light and mocking. "But, hey, at least you''re putting in the effort."


    As amusing as it was, she probably should get going instead of going a proper round with these boys, her body glowed with an intense blue aura as she zipped through the projectiles with breathtaking speed. The explosions bloomed around her in a spectacular display of pyrotechnics, but nothing came close to harming her - she avoided the energy blasts, just in case, tanking the missiles and grenades instead. She darted forward, her fist crackling with energy as she slammed it into the Scorpion armor''s legs. The building crumbling around them from all the munitions going off.


    The impact was like a thunderclap, the metal legs crumpling beneath her blow. The armor''s massive frame toppled sideways, crashing into the wall with a deafening thud. Carol didn''t stop, her eyes locked on the Vulture armor still hanging from the ceiling.


    "Maybe buy me a drink first, next time?" She quipped as she shot upward, her fists driving through the armor''s wings, ruining them, before slapping the armor with a force that sent it smashing into the ceiling. There was a metallic crunch as the armor was pinned inside the reinforced surface, the whole suit lodged awkwardly in the twisted wreckage.


    With a casual twirl, she dodged the beam of crackling energy from the armor with the whips, firing her own energy blast back that put it on its ass. She lifted a finger gun to her lips and tauntingly blew away imaginary smoke.


    She touched down lightly back onto the ground, not even winded, and glanced around the room, surveying the wreckage she''d left in her wake. Alarms continued to blare, but the immediate threat seemed neutralized - at least for the moment. The weird man with the Captain America shield not firing at her for the moment, staring at her warily, tapping at his ear insistently.


    Carol smirked smugly, courtesy of some tech she''d cobbled together with Kree origin, no communication was getting out of the facility, she winked at the man. She then spun away, her path carrying her straight toward the Tesseract room. Behind her, the soldier cursed, his voice lost in the chaos of the crumbling building, even as the armor she''d knocked down surged up again and shot forward, the energy whips slicing through the air in a desperate attempt to entangle her.


    But Carol was already gone, her body a glowing blur as she flew past the last few corridors before she smashed through the final barrier, the reinforced door shattering under her momentum. She skidded to a stop inside the chamber, her eyes locking onto the glowing blue cube hovering in its containment field at the center of the room.


    Around her, SHIELD agents lay sprawled on the floor, groaning and clutching various injuries. And standing in the middle of it all, his coat still somehow immaculate despite the destruction, was Nick Fury. He glanced at her, his expression unreadable as he looked from her to the Tesseract.


    "Had fun?" He asked dryly.


    Carol chuckled, though there was a hint of melancholy in her voice. "In another time, I would''ve taken those boys out for a drink," She said, nodding back toward where she came from. "But I suppose things are as they are."


    Fury grunted, his gaze shifting back to the Tesseract. "They won''t be down for long. You said you know how to utilize this?"


    She sighed, stepping forward and reaching out. Her hands glowed with energy as she grabbed the containment unit and ripped it apart like it was nothing more than flimsy packaging. The Tesseract glowed brighter, a pulse of raw, cosmic power radiating through the room as she held it in her hands.


    "I''ve learned a lot of things over the years, Nick," She said quietly, her voice firm. "So yes, I know how to use it. And no, you''re not keeping it." She added.


    Fury bristled, his expression tightening. "Danvers, we had a deal."


    Carol''s gaze hardened, her grip on the Tesseract tightening as it hummed softly in her hands. "I''ll get you to the Ravagers, but this," She said, gesturing to the cube, "Does not stay in your hands, Nick."


    She was not comfortable giving the Ravagers something of this power. Or Fury. Revenge driven quests were bad enough without adding cosmic powers to them.


    She looked around the room, her eyes lingering on the fallen agents and the wreckage of the facility. There was a weariness in her posture, a heaviness that hadn''t been there before. "I''ve done enough dirty work for you," She murmured, more to herself than to him. "This is my price."


    Fury''s jaw clenched, his frustration evident, but he nodded stiffly. "Fine," He bit out, the words heavy with resignation. "Not like I can stop you."


    Carol smirked, her expression prideful as she looked back at him. "No, you can''t."


    Just then, the door to the chamber burst open, and the armor using whips and energy blasts stormed in, its energy whips crackling menacingly. Behind him, the soldier with the metal arm, charged in, already firing one of those foam grenades.


    Before they could react, Carol closed her eyes, focusing on the Tesseract''s energy. A brilliant blue glow enveloped her, and with a sound like a distant thunderclap, a vortex of shimmering light erupted from the cube, swallowing her and Fury in an instant.


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven,


    The soft glow of ambient lighting cast a golden hue over the lavish bedroom in Justin''s Mansion, the spacious chamber was of course filled to the brim with opulence to Justin''s tastes. A vast floor-to-ceiling window ran along one side, though it was currently obscured by thick, automated curtains. The room was a perfect mix of high-tech and comfort, with plush furnishings that cost more than the average workers yearly income.


    The bed itself was a massive structure draped in silk sheets and a comforter that seemed to envelop the body in a cocoon of warmth. It had been specifically designed to allow for several people to sleep in comfort together.


    At that moment, Justin laid sprawled amidst this opulence, his muscular frame barely covered by the sheets. His body, honed and enhanced by the very technologies he had pioneered, glistened with a faint sheen of sweat from the night''s celebration. Even in sleep, his face retained an expression of determination, the faintest frown creasing his brow. He shifted slightly, his hand moving instinctively, seeking the warmth of Yelena beside him. His mental implants pinged with an urgent request moments later from Nail, his eyes opening as he shifted in bed.


    The motion was small, but it was enough to rouse Yelena from her own slumber. Her training kicked in instantly, her eyes snapping open without the slightest hint of grogginess. She was on alert immediately, her body tensing as if ready for combat, despite having been sound asleep only seconds before. Sitting up smoothly, she glanced around, her sharp gaze taking in the room''s details even as she reached out to gently touch Justin''s shoulder.


    "Nail," Justin muttered, his voice gravelly with sleep but tinged with command as his mind woke up and started crafting worst case scenarios. "Report."


    He didn''t need to ask if it was important, the AI wouldn''t have awakened him if it wasn''t. Justin didn''t really require much sleep anymore, but when he did rest, interruptions were rare - and only for matters of critical importance. If Nail had disturbed his downtime, it meant something significant had happened. He sat up, the sheets pooling around his waist as he rubbed his eyes, the weariness fading quickly as his sharp mind engaged.


    "Sir, the Tesseract facility was just hit," Nail reported, her voice calm but with a noticeable undercurrent of urgency. "By Miss Danvers."


    The words cut through the haze of sleep like a knife. Justin''s eyes snapped open fully, the last remnants of drowsiness evaporating in an instant. He cursed under his breath, the tension in his body palpable. "Dammit." His tone was laced with both frustration and resignation as he threw the covers off and swung his legs over the edge of the bed.


    Yelena was already out of bed, moving with the fluid grace of a predator. Her blonde hair, tousled from sleep, framed a face that was now sharp with focus. Without a word, she strode to a console embedded in the wall and activated it with a touch. Her eyes began to glow faintly, an effect of her direct neural link to Hammer Industries'' systems, as streams of data and security feeds flowed directly into her consciousness, even as she utilized the console to start sending out messages.


    "She made it out, didn''t she?" Justin growled, his hands gripping the edge of the bed tightly. It had been days since either Nick Fury or Carol Danvers had shown any sign of activity. The Tesseract had been one of the few places Justin had thought they might target, since they hadn''t left the planet by normal means. He had made sure to bolster its defenses, even collaborating with Alexander Pierce to secure the facility. And now, this.


    "Why didn''t they call me?" He demanded, his frustration seeping into every word. First, Sinister had completely slipped through their fingers, and now this. It felt like he was constantly one step behind all of a sudden despite all his advantages, and the feeling was beginning to grate on him.


    Nail''s voice, usually smooth and collected, now held a rare note of irritation. "Sir, some sort of tech completely alien to me infiltrated the system of the facility. It overlaid the sensors and cameras, disrupted our communications and even spoofed the view over the facility fooling the satellite feed. As far as I was aware, the facility was quiet. No alerts, no calls for help. Not a sign of anything odd until the alien tech self-destructed as Danvers and Fury left, using the Tesseract."


    Justin cursed again, the sound low and vicious. He ran a hand through his hair, trying to process the implications. Carol hadn''t bothered with subtlety then, she had blasted her way through his security team, making a beeline for the Tesseract. There was no subtlety needed for Captain Marvel - she was a hammer, smashing everything in her path.


    He couldn''t entirely blame his team for not being able to stop her. Carol Danvers was absurdly powerful and dangerously fast. The combined strength of H.A.M.M.E.R wasn''t enough to even slow her down, not when she was determined. If he had been there, with the Power Stone in hand, it might have been a different story. But he hadn''t wanted a confrontation, not if he could avoid it.


    Perhaps he should have just gotten over his instinctive distaste at the idea of controlling two infinity stones and grabbed it himself, but he was still leery of such, Thanos wasn''t the only one in the universe that would find that a tantalizing target¡­


    "We''ve lost the Tesseract," Justin said, his voice rough with barely suppressed fury despite it all. He glanced at Yelena, who was now fully immersed in the security feeds, her eyes glowing a brilliant blue. "And now they''re gone, at least Danvers didn''t go after us..."


    Yelena''s fingers flew over the console''s interface, and she began to relay the data. "Confirmed. She tore through the perimeter, neutralized the guard teams by sheer speed and by collapsing the building in ways that made it impossible for them to follow. Cameras show... Well, it looked like a warzone in there. The team fought hard, but..."


    Her voice trailed off as she reviewed the footage, her jaw tightening. Justin knew what she was frustrated about, he shared the same frustration after all. His operatives are some of the best, enhanced and equipped with the latest HammerTech armor. But they hadn''t stood a chance against Captain Marvel''s raw power. Not without him there to tip the scales with an infinity stone.


    He let out a breath, the sound more like a snarl. "I suspected they''d go for the Tesseract eventually. I thought we''d be ready to at least capture Fury. Why the hell didn''t the fail-safe work? It wasn''t even connected to the facility?" He felt like he was grasping at straws, searching for any explanation that made sense.


    If they could have called him, he could have perhaps delayed Danvers enough that his team could capture Fury, or at the very least portal away the Tesseract. They''d done the best they could to make it into a trap that wasn''t obvious enough that Fury would refuse to enter. If they''d only been able to call him!


    With Kaecillius still maintaining the mirror dimension prison that currently held Magneto, and Electro¡­ He wasn''t available, so Justin had been ready at a moment''s notice for days, to portal in.


    Nail''s holographic avatar materialized in the corner of the room, a translucent figure of a red-headed woman with a depressed gaze. "The fail-safe triggered as planned, sir, but the alien tech hacked and overrode it immediately. It was an impressive piece of equipment, sir. Not something I''ve encountered before. I apologize, but the infiltration was... Nearly perfect."


    Justin waved the apology away, though his teeth were clenched. "It''s a lesson. We''ll learn from it. Get the team back, have Forge assess the damage and see if there''s any way to improve the armors, see if he can go over whatever''s left of the tech."


    This just made the deal with Asgard more necessary, they needed to know what was available out there technology wise, to either buy, trade, or replicate.


    Yelena''s eyes flickered back to normal as she turned to face him. Her expression was grim but focused, already thinking ahead. "We need to recalibrate our protocols considering the alien threats like the Skrulls. If they also have that kind of tech, they''ll use it. We should expect more issues going forward like this."


    "Agreed," Justin said, his voice tight. He was already thinking about what this meant for his overall strategy. The Tesseract was gone, likely in Fury''s hands, and that was a problem. He didn''t have the time or resources to go hunting for it right now - not with everything else on his plate. He could perhaps drop a hint to Asgard, perhaps Odin would want his shiny rock back.


    It also somewhat amused him to imagine Odin going after Fury, two ornery one eyed bastards could have each other.


    "And what of SHIELD, sir?" Nail asked, her digital form crossing her arms as she regarded Justin with a slight pout, her expression still downtrodden.


    Justin scoffed, "Tell Pierce I''ll see him at the summit. Finding his shiny blue rock isn''t my problem." It''s not something I can do anything about, I don''t know where they would take it¡­ His voice dripped with irritation. The Tesseract being in Danvers'' hands was bad enough, but having Fury back in the game with it was worse. The thought of that kind of power out in space, potentially within reach of Thanos, made his skin crawl. He hoped Danvers would at least have the sense not to play right into the Mad Titan''s hands.


    If they started playing around with it, Thanos might have access to traveling through space way too soon¡­


    Dammit, I should have just grabbed the thing myself¡­ no matter my own feelings, or the Ancient One''s warnings¡­ He thought, before he discarded it, whining was a pointless endeavor, it happened, he had to move on¡­


    Nail nodded, her form flickering as she processed his instructions. "Understood, sir. I''ll recall the team and begin repairs immediately."


    Justin sat back on the edge of the bed, running his hands over his face. He was trying to keep his thoughts organized, but the situation was spiraling faster than he could manage. First Sinister, now this.


    At least the situation in Europe and elsewhere was slowly brewing exactly as he wanted. The EU was already folding, negotiations were underway that would not only allow him back in, but give Hammer Industries representation in all of their governments. From there, it wasn''t too big of a step to start moving towards subsuming them, one law passed at a time¡­


    The African Union had already signed on to the same thing, the past few weeks showing them more than ever that they were instrinctly tied to him and his rise. They were even further in his pocket, the few dictatorships on the continent already quietly subsumed and fully ruled by a representative from his company.


    The big picture was promising, but these little setbacks were irritating, as they could quickly grow to major annoyances.


    "Goddammit," He hissed. He was used to fighting opponents who were powerful, but lacked the cosmic scale of power of a being like Apocalypse or Thanos, or those of that ilk. With Captain Marvel not being far below. He''d need to adapt.


    Magneto, Selene, even Loki - they were all capable of reaching it, but for different reasons weren''t, so he''d not needed to fully face such power from his enemies until Apocalypse. Now apparently he was beginning to deal with forces that were exponentially more dangerous. He''d have to start experimenting with the Power Stone, and hurry up his divinity if he could - the domains still settling - but he felt a pressure that indicated they were coming.


    How naive he had been, thinking he could change the world without getting his hands dirty personally. There had been a time, not so long ago, when he had believed he could manipulate events from the shadows, letting others do the heavy lifting while he reaped the rewards. Now he was facing beings like Hela and Danvers, beings whose very presence warped the power scale around them. And it was only going to get worse.


    Yelena returned to his side, her movements graceful as she swayed her hips. She slid back onto the bed beside him, her body radiating warmth and strength. She glanced at him, her expression serious. "We''ll get it back, sir," She said softly, her voice a mix of determination and reassurance. "They caught us off guard this time with that tech, but we''ll be ready next time, let''s get you relaxed again..."


    Justin let out a huff, leaning back against the plush headboard. His eyes scanned the ceiling as if seeking answers there. "I''m not going back to sleep, Yelena."


    They''d been enjoying their night before this as a little celebration, since Yelena had caught Ross without a fuss the other day. Pentagon security really was not enough compared to his own.


    He was stewing waiting for interrogation¡­ Justin could hardly wait.


    Since he was awake anyway¡­ Perhaps..


    Reading his mind, a playful smirk spread across Yelena''s lips as she leaned in closer, her eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief. "Wasn''t suggesting sleep, sir..."


    He huffed out a laugh, she knew exactly what she was doing with saying sir in that manner.


    The woman had no problem calling him Justin, but when she wanted to either put on a show for others¡­ Or when she wanted to play, it was suddenly sir.


    Well¡­ Ross could wait.


    <hr>


    Some time later, Hammerhaven.


    They moved deep within a fortified sub-level, going towards the most dimly lit and cramped interrogation room Yelena had been able to find. Their guest was not deserving of first class internment after all. The walls were heavily reinforced with layers of advanced alloys and soundproofing to stop even a super soldier, and inside was one lone figure, strapped to an upright bench, his limbs bound and his head forced into a rigid, upright position.


    General Thaddeus ''Thunderbolt'' Ross glared defiantly at his captors, his eyes blazing with fury as the door slid open with a soft hiss. Justin strolled in, flanked by his entourage. Yelena and Domino. Behind them, Dr. Helen Cho entered, her eyes gleaming with a curious, almost eager light as she glanced around at the various instruments and devices neatly arrayed on a nearby table.


    After Sinister''s interrogation had been a bust, she''d been begging for another chance to make herself useful, continuing to tinker with different expressions of Extremis.


    By the time Justin would be ready to uplift all of humanity, he had no doubt Extremis would be hereditary and a part of the DNA of humankind, with how both Hansen and Cho still obsessed over it.


    Ross, bound to the upright interrogation bench, struggled against his restraints, his military uniform disheveled and his face contorted with anger. As Justin approached, a mocking smile on his lips, Ross''s voice erupted in a furious tirade. "You damn traitor! You piece of scum! I always knew you were rotten, Hammer! You think you can get away with this?"


    Justin clicked his tongue, stepping closer and smoothing down the General''s rumpled tie with an air of practiced condescension. "Traitor?" He repeated, his tone dripping with mock innocence. "Oh, General, how could I possibly be a traitor when the only one I''ve ever been loyal to is¡­ Well, me?" He flashed a dark grin, the corners of his mouth curling with satisfaction as he watched Ross seethe.


    There was just something so satisfying with seeing the general with an overinflated ego brought low like this. Justin had been wanting to do this for years. He just hadn''t had a good enough reason until now.


    "You always were a bad egg, Hammer," Ross spat, his face growing redder with each passing second. "A slimy, arrogant, self-serving bastard who thinks he''s smarter than everyone else. Your company is a joke, your so-called genius nothing but smoke and mirrors. You don''t have the balls to stand toe-to-toe with real men, real leaders. You''re just a -"


    "Careful, General," Justin interrupted, his voice silky and calm, though his eyes held a warning gleam. "You''re going to hurt my feelings."


    Justin was probably enjoying this too much, but with the frustrations of Sinister, Fury, dealing with Pierce throwing a tantrum, and Hela''s¡­ Everything. It was nice to take out his frustrations in a way that hurt absolutely no one.


    Ross really didn''t count.


    Ross sneered, undeterred, his words pouring out like venom. "Feelings? You? Don''t make me laugh. I''ve known men like you my whole life - silver-tongued, spineless worms who think they can buy and bully their way to the top. You''re a disgrace, a pathetic excuse for a -"


    "I think that''s enough, don''t you?" Justin cut in smoothly, though his tone was still infuriatingly calm. Really, at least I can say the man isn''t a coward in any manner... He tilted his head, regarding Ross with a mix of amusement and pity. "I''m curious, General. Purely for my own amusement of course¡­ Did you really send Rhodes to his death because it was necessary? Or was it just a way to stick it to Stark?"


    Ross''s lip curled in a snarl, but there was a flicker of something darker in his eyes - something that almost looked like pride. "Oh, I won''t lie, Hammer. Sending that son of a bitch to his death was the best decision I''ve made in years. Stark needed to be reminded that there''s a price for getting in my way."


    Huh, he''s a good actor, from what Nail showed me of his confrontation with Stark, I wouldn''t have been able to tell. Which is one of the reasons he''d asked. The other reason¡­ Well¡­


    Justin hummed thoughtfully in the end, his expression contemplative. "I see," he murmured, almost to himself. "So, it was a bit of both then. Military necessity with a side of personal vendetta. Classic Ross." He straightened, his gaze sharpening as he locked eyes with the General. "And what about now? Are you still proud of it, knowing where it''s landed you?"


    Ross sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "I''d do it again in a heartbeat, you arrogant prick. You think I''m scared of you? You''re nothing but a snake hiding behind your little toys and your women."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, a bemused smile playing at his lips. "My women?" He repeated, glancing to the side where Yelena and Domino stood, both watching the exchange with cool, detached expressions. "Tell me, General, is this some sort of¡­ Issue you have? Or have you always been this charming? You really shouldn''t look down on me like this¡­"


    Ross strained against his bonds, his voice rising in a near-shout. "You''re not man enough to do what needs to be done, Hammer! You''re just a coward hiding behind these bitches because you know you don''t have what it takes!"


    Yelena''s eyes narrowed, a dangerous glint flashing in her icy gaze, but before she could move, Helen spoke up, her voice high and eager as she clutched a syringe in one hand, the needle glinting under the dim overhead lights. "Master, can I shut him up, please? Just for a little while?" She pleaded, a twisted smile tugging at the corners of her mouth.


    Justin shook his head slightly, holding up a hand. "No, my dear," He said softly, his eyes never leaving Ross''s flushed, furious face. "We want him to talk, after all."


    Ross let out a harsh, barking laugh, his voice thick with disdain. "You''re delusional if you think I''ll talk. You don''t have the guts to make me. You don''t have what it takes, Hammer." His jaw flexed as if he tried to bite down on something.


    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    Justin just watched in amusement as the General came to the realization his secret cyanide pill hidden in a false tooth wasn''t there anymore. Justin sighed, adjusting the cufflinks on his immaculate suit with a thoughtful expression. "Maybe I do," He admitted lightly, his voice almost casual. "Maybe I don''t."


    He stepped back, making a slight gesture with his hand. Instantly, Yelena stepped forward, her face a mask of cold determination, while Helen giggled excitedly, practically skipping to the bench with a syringe in each hand, her eyes alight with the manic glee of SCIENCE!


    "But that''s what I have them for," Justin continued, his smile widening as he watched Ross''s bravado falter ever so slightly. "I''d been saving this for Sinister, but it doesn''t hurt to have a test subject before we move on to the main event." Yes, you''re not the main event, Ross, I hope it stings¡­


    He moved to the back of the room, his shoes clicking softly against the floor as he dragged a metal chair across the floor with a grating screech. He positioned it directly in front of Ross, turning it around and sitting down with his arms draped casually over the backrest, his eyes gleaming with a cruel, calculating light.


    "Entertain me, Ross," He said softly, his voice almost purring with anticipation. "Last longer than half an hour, please."


    His glasses gleamed with the reflection of the agony before him, as Yelena and Helen got to work.


    <hr>


    Shorter than you''d think later,


    General Ross hung limply in his restraints, unconscious and barely breathing after the ordeal. A deluge of sweat glistened on his forehead, his face a mask of pain and exhaustion. The bench he was strapped to was still slightly damp from his blood and sweat, a reminder of the intensity of Helen and Yelena''s work.


    Justin stood off to the side, his sharp eyes surveying the scene with a thoughtful expression. His hands were clasped behind his back, his demeanor cool and composed. He turned his gaze away from Ross and toward his team, a small, satisfied smile playing on his lips.


    Some of the news was surprising, and maybe less than ideal, but there was some pleasure in a job well done. His fury was kept on a low simmer as he focused on the nicer parts first.


    "Yelena," He said idly, his tone almost casual as if he were discussing the weather, "Make sure to work with Nail and use all the codes we extracted to take over his little clandestine operations. I want their cash, equipment, manpower - all of it. Keep them moving under the assumption they''re still working for Ross. Deniable assets like that will come in handy in the coming days."


    Especially as Ross wasn''t quite dead yet, which would allow him to use their own captive Skrull to take over his visage, to play as his little spy, solely to then be caught and sadly killed while apprehended, further setting ablaze the hunt for aliens, and furthering the support for Hammer industries.


    Yelena nodded, her eyes gleaming with a dangerous light. "Yes, sir," She chirped, a bounce in her step as she moved over to one of the control panels in the corner of the room. Her fingers flew over the keys, accessing the hidden databases and communication networks Ross had controlled, Nail feeding them to her. Justin watched her work, noting the almost gleeful energy in her movements.


    He chuckled softly, amused. She was in an exceptionally good mood, and he could guess why. The opportunity to bring down a man like Ross, to strip him of his power and influence, had been a satisfying task for all of them, but Yelena seemed to be relishing it more than most.


    She didn''t take anyone disparaging him very well.


    Turning his attention to the diminutive figure standing next to him, Justin reached out and gently lifted Helen Cho''s chin, bringing her eyes up to meet his. Her pupils were dilated, her cheeks flushed, and her lips parted slightly as she gazed up at him, clearly still riding the high of the SCIENCE, as well as his clear approval.


    "You did well, Helen," He murmured, his voice low and warm as he leaned in and brushed his lips softly against hers. Helen''s eyes fluttered closed, her breath hitching as she leaned into the kiss, a soft, almost dreamy hum escaping her throat. When he pulled back, she swayed slightly, her hands still raised as if to reach for him.


    She was too easy to reward, really.


    The small Korean woman practically floated on the spot, her eyes wide and dazed as she continued to move her lips long after he''d disengaged. "Good job," He told her, his tone filled with genuine approval. "The interrogation serum works wonders. I''ve never seen a man in such pain."


    Helen''s cheeks turned an even deeper shade of red, and she stammered out a shy, almost embarrassed, "T-thank y-you, Master." Her voice was barely above a whisper, and she looked down at her hands, clearly still caught up in the aftereffects of his praise and the kiss.


    Domino, leaning casually against the wall, shook her head with a wry smile. "I remember how she was when she just met you," She said dryly, her gaze shifting between Justin and the still-dazed Helen. "Please don''t do that to other women. I''m not sure the planet can survive the crazy."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his expression one of mock affront. "She is not ''my'' fault," He protested, spreading his hands in a gesture of innocence.


    Both Yelena and Domino turned to him with matching looks of skepticism, their eyebrows raised in perfect synchronization. Yelena''s lips twitched, while Domino''s smirk widened. Behind them, Helen was still humming softly to herself, swaying slightly as she seemed lost in some happy daydream, her fingers tracing the air where Justin''s lips had been. The murmurs of daddy and mommy coupled with giggles that she suddenly let out, were disturbing, he admitted.


    Justin let out a long sigh, shaking his head as if lamenting the unfairness of the situation. "Honestly, you two have the worst opinions of me," He muttered, his own lips twitching. He turned away, his gaze drifting back to the unconscious Ross hanging from the restraints. The General''s face was slack, the tension gone from his body as he remained unaware of the conversation happening around him.


    Justin''s expression shifted, his playful demeanor fading as his fists clenched at his sides. The frustration that had been simmering beneath the surface bubbled up again as he thought about the more troubling things that they''d learned during the interrogation. The Sentinel program¡­ He''d assumed it was just another nutjob somewhere attempting to wipe out metahumans, something he could perhaps manipulate or even take over and reprogram for his own purposes. But the truth was far more complicated - and infuriating.


    "Fucking Skrulls," He muttered under his breath, his voice tight with barely controlled anger. "Of course, it''s fucking Skrulls."


    Domino shook her head, "Still can''t believe you made that up, and they''re crawling out from everywhere."


    He glanced at Ross, still slumped and oblivious. Ross, in his arrogance, had not known. The old patriot would never have signed on to something like this if he''d known the true nature of the program he was supporting. But Ross hadn''t been kept in the loop entirely; he''d been kept in the dark, fed just enough information to keep him a supporter of the program.


    "Killian," Justin said, almost spitting the name. "That''s who Ross thought was running the show. Aldrich Killian, the ''missing'' genius. Except Killian''s dead. I made damn sure of that." His voice was laced with a dark satisfaction at the memory.


    That''s also how he realized that this was the Skrulls again, the second the name spilled from Ross'' lips. Someone was using Killian''s face, his identity, to manipulate the Sentinel program''s supporters and backers. And there were only a few beings capable of pulling off such a deception.


    Mystique was one, but she was already accounted for, hiding away in the Savage Lands with Magneto and Sinister for the past year plus. He really needed to find the time to do more than send men to guard the entrance there¡­ A whole untapped land for him to utilize..


    Anyway, it wasn''t Mystique that was masquerading as Killian, so that left the obvious option, especially as they must be using some sort of tech to avoid notice, as Nail or even SHIELD would have found it odd to have Killian running around.


    "The Sentinel program was taken over by aliens, and here I thought the whole thing couldn''t go deeper down the rabbit hole," He said, his voice low and furious. "These fucking aliens are everywhere, twisting things to their own ends."


    Did everyone just think humanity was prey?


    Justin would just have to show them their mistake¡­


    He let out a long, slow breath, trying to calm the storm of emotions roiling inside him. He couldn''t afford to lose control, not now. He needed to think, to plan, to figure out how to turn this mess back to his advantage. His emotions really were coming up closer to the surface lately, probably tied to the divine power brewing inside him.


    "What are you thinking, boss?" Domino''s voice cut through his thoughts, pulling him back to the present. She was watching him closely, her eyes sharp and curious.


    Justin met her gaze, a cold, determined light in his own. "I''m thinking I''ll need to blow up the moon," He said flatly.


    Domino let out a surprised laugh, shaking her head in disbelief and amusement. "Really going through the whole villain overlord list, huh?"


    Justin rolled his eyes at her, but there was a small, genuine smile tugging at his lips. "I''m obviously not going to blow it up," He said, his tone serious once more. "I''m just frustrated the damn aliens actually built a moonbase before me." He griped.


    He turned to face Yelena and Helen, who had both paused in their respective tasks to listen. "Nail, keep a tighter eye on space," He ordered. "Specifically, the moon. I want to know if anyone even sneezes from that direction."


    "Already done, sir," Nail''s voice replied. There was a slight edge to her tone, a hint of concern, his AI was growing into herself lately it seemed. "However if you desire full coverage, I''ll need to reroute more resources to handle the increased surveillance."


    "Do it," Justin said, his voice firm. "I want every inch of that rock covered."


    The AI acknowledged his command, and Justin turned his thoughts back to the situation at hand. Unfortunately, he couldn''t move on the moon immediately. The upcoming Asgardian summit required his attention, and making war on the moon during such a crucial diplomatic event would be a political disaster.


    Not to mention the difficulty in waging said war. At least now the disappearing logistics chain for the Sentinels made some sense. The Skrulls either had some sort of teleportation station, tech, or stealthed space ships capable of avoiding Nails'' sight. No wonder they''d never been able to fully catch on where the actual production facility was¡­


    Frankly the fact that Ross even knew enough to know that was a miracle. Only ''Killian'' asking him for some clandestine sabotage of the next NASA mission had clued the general in on the secret.


    It might have been a misdirection, but Justin''s gut instinct said this made sense. It explained everything on how deeply hidden the Sentinel program was. And why everyone they captured didn''t know anything. Because only the Skrulls had the full picture. It had been clever of them, he admitted, to use the powerful and rich people that feared and hated metahumans to gain the funds and resources for their mutant killer robots.


    He suspected they were more like human killing robots though¡­ The first strike before an invasion, one they were ready¡­


    "Fucking Skrulls stealing my moon base idea," He muttered under his breath, his voice filled with disgust. "Just for that, they deserve everything that''s coming to them."


    They''d locate the base, and once he had an actual location, he''d pull Kaecillius from babysitting duties, and they''d portal in their forces.


    He glanced back at Ross, who was still hanging limply in his restraints, his head lolling to the side. The General''s chest rose and fell with shallow breaths, his face pale and drawn. It was almost pitiable, the state he was in, but Justin felt no sympathy.


    "Ross was an idiot," He said, his voice harsh and unforgiving. "How the hell did he think Killian of all people could have built a secret moon base? There''s imagination, and then there''s just insanity."


    He should have cottoned on that something was wrong at that stage. Killian was not Tony Stark. And Ross had enough access to state secrets that he should know something like that couldn''t be completely covered up if it was actually done by human actors.


    Yelena glanced up from her work, her eyes gleaming with a fierce, almost predatory light. "He''s not the first fool to get stuck in their own delusions," She said, her tone almost cheerful. "And he won''t be the last. We''ve got everything we need to take over his assets. It''s all in place."


    "I have such competent minions." Justin said with a smirk.


    "Mhm!" Helen nodded,


    Even as Domino and Yelena both flipped him off.


    <hr>


    Several days later, November 2009, Hammerhaven.


    Justin stood on the balcony overlooking Hammerhaven''s main plaza, his gaze sweeping over the city below. It was a spectacle, a dazzling display of power and prestige designed to impress even the most skeptical of onlookers. The gleaming, golden armor of the Einherjar glittered under the bright sun as they marched in perfect formation down the main street. They were led by a grand float, richly adorned with Asgardian symbols and artistry, carrying Thor on a gilded throne. Beside him sat Freyja, regal and composed, her bearing that of a queen accustomed to command. The crowd cheered, a mixture of awe and excitement rippling through them as the Asgardian procession made its way through the heart of Justin''s city.


    He couldn''t understand why exactly the idiots were cheering. The aliens had technically invaded, they were here for a summit to discuss their payment for their actions. Well, he supposed he could understand it, bread and circuses after all¡­ He just didn''t like it.


    Aliens had no place on Earth, even the Asgardian variety.


    Domino leaned against the balcony railing, her arms crossed as she watched the scene below with a mix of amusement and skepticism. "Quite the show they''re putting on. I wonder whose idea it was to go all out like this - beefcake or his mother''s?"


    "Given the grandeur and spectacle, I''d bet on Freyja," Phantazia replied, her eyes never leaving the parade. "Thor''s a warrior from the information we have, but this kind of spectacle is pure political theater, he would have flown in just himself and a few warriors, maybe put on a bit of thunder for effect."


    Justin nodded thoughtfully, his eyes on Freyja as she waved gracefully to the crowd. Even from this distance, he could feel the weight of her gaze, almost as if she were assessing him, measuring his worth. "It''s definitely a play for better public perception," He mused, his tone calm but calculating. "Thor would want to show strength, to demonstrate that Asgard is still a force to be reckoned with despite their loss to us. But Freyja¡­ She''s here for something else. She''s here to make a statement. This parade was most definitely her."


    Storm, standing just behind him, glanced at him curiously. "And what statement is that?"


    The woman had been added to H.A.M.M.E.R with all the pomp needed for such an addition earlier in the day, and he''d told her to stay by his side for the Asgardians visit.


    Already she''d fished for a date, one he might even be inclined to give her. Even if he was fairly certain she was simply tying herself to him to protect metahumans once he took over the planet.


    Silly Ororo, I''d make use of them whether you''re mine or not, but I appreciate the enthusiasm¡­


    "That Asgard is our ally, that they''re strong, without feeling the need to rub it in," Justin said, a faint smile playing on his lips. "And that they''re willing to play nice, for now. It''s a reminder to everyone watching that they''re still in the game. But it''s also a test."


    "A test?" Storm asked, raising an eyebrow.


    Justin nodded. "Will I see this, and try to take advantage of them coming with open hands? Will I act like an ally, negotiating in good faith? Or will I be the kind of despot that spots kindness and tries to go for the jugular."


    Domino snorted softly. "Well, good luck to her with that. If you already understand what game she''s playing, my bets are on you."


    He chuckled, glancing over at her. "How kind, minion number two."


    Domino scrunched up her nose, not liking that moniker much, "Why am I number two?" She protested.


    "Ororo''s currently number one." Justin teased, a smirk on his face. "There''s this thing she can do with her powers¡­"


    Storm just smirked, not at all bothered as Domino and Phantazia both glanced at her.


    "Tch, you''re going to try and Cho her, aren''t you?" Domino said, Phantazia closing her eyes and rubbing her forehead, refusing to join in on that conversation.


    "Helen isn''t an adjective now." Justin said dryly, while Storm raised a confused eyebrow.


    "She totally is." Domino muttered, crossing her arms, watching Storm critically, before snorting, "You''re just messing with me, right?"


    "Absolutely." Justin said calmly.


    Phantazia slapped her hand over Domino''s mouth before she could reply further. From the way her cheeks pinked immediately, Domino was likely being a brat and licking her hand, but she didn''t release her mouth.


    "For diplomatic reasons, we might need duct tape for the summit." She said calmly.


    "Is she always like this?" Storm asked, bemused.


    "Yes." Came from all three, one of the answers was muffled as Domino had to speak through Phantazia''s hand.


    They fell silent for a moment, watching as the parade continued its slow, deliberate march through the city. The Einherjar''s armor shone like burnished gold, their movements precise and coordinated.


    Justin had a feeling these ones were of higher quality then the forces they''d faced a year ago.


    "It''s almost surreal," Phantazia murmured, her voice thoughtful. "Seeing them here, like this. It''s like something out of a myth."


    "Except the myths didn''t have spaceships and interdimensional portals," Justin said dryly. "But yes, it is impressive. And that''s exactly the point."


    He watched as the float carrying Thor and Freyja came to a stop in the center of the plaza, the Asgardian warriors forming up around it in a protective circle. Thor stood, his towering form a silhouette against the brilliant blue sky, and raised Mjolnir high above his head. The crowd erupted into cheers, the sound echoing through the city like a wave.


    ¡­


    An hour later, as he sat in his office, he received a message that confirmed his suspicions about the Queen Mother. Freyja and Thor were requesting a private audience before the official negotiations began. He couldn''t help but smile at the timing - Freyja was playing her hand early, and he was more than willing to see what cards she had up her sleeve.


    It was a good sign after all. She was coming to negotiate with him, acknowledging him as the true power on Earth in this situation.


    When they arrived, Justin leaned back in his chair, observing them with a calm, appraising gaze. Storm and Domino stood behind him, silent but watchful, while Phantazia took her place by the door, playing the role of his secretary with practiced ease, while ready to jump in with her powers should things deteriorate. Storm was there in case the god of thunder decided to get cheeky.


    Thor looked as imposing as ever, his broad shoulders and towering height making him stand out, even more so with how ornate his armor and cape was now that he was King. But it was Freyja who commanded the room. Her beauty was undeniable, but it was the sharp intelligence in her eyes, the grace in her movements, that truly held his attention.


    Well that and her very nicely fitted dress that showcased some nice cleavage, this was a woman that definitely knew her audience for this negotiation.


    "King Thor," Justin greeted, his tone respectful but laced with a hint of sarcasm, because he was no king, not truly. "It''s an honor to host you here. And Lady Freyja, your presence is truly a delight."


    Freyja inclined her head gracefully, a smile playing on her lips. "The honor is ours, Mr. Hammer. I''ve heard much about you."


    "Only good things, I hope," Justin said, his tone light.


    "Oh, many things," Freyja replied, her eyes sparkling with knowledge. "But we''re not here to exchange pleasantries. I think you know that." She smirked, "That''s for the show later, no?"


    Justin''s smile widened slightly. "Of course. So, what can I do for Asgard''s delegation today?"


    Freyja glanced at Thor, who looked decidedly uncomfortable. "We''re here to discuss and come to an arrangement on the delicate matter - " She said smoothly. " - concerning both Hela and Loki."


    "Ah, yes," Justin said, leaning forward slightly. "Hela, the Goddess of Death, currently residing on my planet. And Loki, the God of Mischief, who tried to conquer it - it will be very interesting to hear what you have to say." His tone was very dry.


    Thor bristled at his tone, his fists clenching at his sides. "You will speak respectfully -"


    "Thor," Freyja interrupted gently, placing a hand on his arm. "Let''s not get ahead of ourselves, you must learn to think before you speak."


    Thor glanced at her, clearly struggling to rein in his temper. After a moment, he took a deep breath and nodded, though the tension in his posture remained. Justin wondered if Odin had gotten into his head before this meeting, he was unusually confrontational where he was usually more of a big puppy. Or was it the presence of his mother?


    "Thank you, Mother," He said stiffly.


    Justin''s eyes flicked between them, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "It''s good to see you''ve taught him some manners, Lady Freyja." He prodded, testing the waters.


    Freyja''s laughter was light, almost musical. "He is still learning, I''m afraid. But that''s not why we''re here."


    Justin narrowed his eyes, she is really going to come at me with the velvet glove isn''t she? Using Thor''s ''learning'' to come off as more of an ally.


    She had another thing coming if she thought he would be giving her a discount on reparations, or on the payment for solving their Hela problem.


    She leaned forward slightly, her gaze intent, and surely by pure accident giving him a better view. "Mr. Hammer, I''ll be direct. We want to ensure that Hela remains here on Earth, and that Loki''s actions do not sour relations between Asgard and your world. What would it take for you to ensure that?"


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued at her directness, was he reading her wrong after all? "You''re offering compensation just like that?"


    "Weregild," Freyja corrected, her tone serious. "For those lost during Loki''s¡­ Indiscretion." She smiled serenely, "Only those lost by our hands, of course."


    Justin''s eyes narrowed slightly. He knew full well that she was aware that the civilian casualties were mostly caused by his own people during the short ''invasion''. Heimdall was an absolute cheat in that way.


    "And Hela?" He asked, keeping his tone carefully neutral.


    Freyja''s smile was serene. "A trade deal, beneficial to both Asgard and Hammer Industries, for as long as Hela remains on Earth."


    Justin leaned back, his expression skeptical. Mostly put upon, as now the real horse trading would begin. "I''m sorry, but that''s not nearly enough. Hela is¡­ Unpredictable, to say the least. And while I''ve managed to keep her under control so far, there''s no guarantee she won''t decide to go on a rampage tomorrow."


    At the moment, she was enjoying cleaning up some African terrorist groups that had lingered even through Hammer industries presence. Just so she''d have something to kill and wouldn''t be a problem.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, his gaze lingering on Freyja as she smiled, a knowing glint in her eyes. "Hela has already proven herself quite useful," Freyja said casually, her tone almost dismissive, though Justin could sense the underlying sharpness, as she reminded them of her help against Apocalypse. "From what my son tells me, she''s even somewhat¡­ Attached to you." Her lips curled in a teasing smile. "And I''ve heard that you have quite the reputation with women, Mr. Hammer. Perhaps you could manage her - keep her collared and on a leash, so to speak?"


    Justin''s eyes gleamed with amusement as he caught the tease in there. "A leash, Lady Freyja? I''m not sure Hela would be the type to appreciate such a thing." He drawled.


    Freyja''s smile widened, a playful light dancing in her eyes. "Oh, but you''d be surprised, Mr. Hammer. Sometimes the fiercest creatures only need the right person to hold the leash. It takes a firm hand, of course, but also a gentle one." She tilted her head slightly, her gaze piercing. "I''m sure you''re more than capable."


    "Sounds like you have experience." He quipped, reevaluating her. He''d thought she was here to teach Thor a lesson, even her playful language and showcasing her cleavage, meant to display for Thor another avenue of misdirection and negotiation.


    But now he was wondering if she was already certain of what the deal would end up being, and was just enjoying trolling them until they got there. Bloody magic bullshit, is she a seer?


    Thor''s face turned an alarming shade of red as he shot up from his seat, his fists clenched at his sides. "You will speak carefully around my mother, Hammer!" He demanded, his voice tight with barely contained emotions.


    "Thor, please," Freyja said calmly yet again, placing a gentle hand on his arm. Her voice was soothing, but there was a steel beneath it that made her son pause. "Sit down."


    "But, Mother - " Thor began, looking genuinely horrified as he glanced between his mother and Justin. Justin wanted to roll his eyes, he honestly can''t see what she''s doing?


    Freyja laughed, the sound light and airy, like the tinkling of bells. "Oh, don''t be so prudish, my dear. A man of your age should be well used to this kind of talk. Kings often engage in such conversations to get to know one another before negotiations begin, and as the lead negotiator in this case, I''m the King for the purposes of such discussion."


    Thor looked mortified, his mouth opening and closing as if he were at a complete loss for words. "But... Mother, you''re speaking of... Of leashes and - and -"


    "Oh, Thor," Freyja said with a sigh, her smile turning almost pitying. "You''re far too serious lately, listening to your father no doubt. You should learn to enjoy the dance of words. There''s more to diplomacy than just swinging a hammer."


    Thor glanced helplessly at Justin, who chuckled softly, leaning forward to meet the Asgardian prince''s confused gaze. He was willing to throw the man a bone, mostly because it would likely please his mother.


    "She''s just using negotiation tactics, King Thor," Justin explained calmly, his tone almost gentle, as if speaking to a child. "It''s all part of the game. Your mother is trying to build a rapport, to see if I''m someone she can work with. She doesn''t actually mean any of what she says, nor the flirtations." He glanced at Freyja, his eyes gleaming with respect. "Not that I don''t appreciate the effort."


    Freyja''s smile turned into a smirk, her gaze never leaving Justin''s. "You''re quite astute, Mr. Hammer. And you''re right, of course. But I must say, it''s been some time since I''ve met a mortal who understands this dance as quickly as you did."


    She turned to Thor, "As I knew the man was someone with a taste for fine women, I dressed to draw his eyes, not because I wish to court him, my son, but because it is another tool to pull things to my favor."


    This entire meeting is part lesson, part the woman just enjoying messing with everyone. If Odin could see this, he''d die on the spot. Justin thought, amused that after all the stress about this whole summit, this was how things were going down.


    Domino, who had been watching the exchange with growing amusement, couldn''t help but mutter under her breath, "Even on Asgard, they know how much of a dog you are, boss."


    Justin ignored her, his focus still on Freyja. "Well, Lady Freyja, if you''re actually into leashes and collars, perhaps we could work something out personally. I''m always open to... Exploring new avenues of diplomacy." He fired back, mostly just to get a reaction from Thor.


    Thor spluttered in outrage yet again, completely ignoring every lesson he just got, his face somehow managing to turn even redder. "Hammer, I swear -"


    Freyja''s laughter rang out again, clear and bright. She waved a hand dismissively, her eyes sparkling with genuine amusement. "Oh, dear, don''t worry. Mr. Hammer is merely testing the waters, as I am. It''s all part of the game - a test you''re failing, don''t let your emotions take hold so easily, Thor."


    She turned her gaze back to Justin, and her smile took on a more mischievous edge. "But I''m afraid I must disappoint you, Mr. Hammer. I''m a married woman, and these days, I hold the leash and give out the spankings." Her voice dropped slightly, a hint of something darker beneath the humor. "As you may find out if you''re not careful with your words."


    "Mother!" Thor shouted, his voice a mix of horror and disbelief. He looked like he wanted to crawl under the table and disappear, his usual bravado utterly shattered by his mother''s brazen comments.


    Freyja turned to him, her expression softening. "Oh, Thor, really. Do grow up, dear. You''re a virile man of your age; you should be well accustomed to this kind of banter."


    Thor gaped at her, utterly flabbergasted. "But -"


    "But nothing," Freyja interrupted gently but firmly. "This is how we break the ice, as the mortals say. Now, sit down and let me handle this, and listen, a peaceful accord with Midgard needs a good relationship between its rulers."


    Thor hesitated for a moment longer, then, clearly still reeling, sank back into his seat, his shoulders hunched and his eyes fixed firmly on the table in front of him.


    Justin, watching the exchange with barely contained amusement, turned back to Freyja. "I must admit, Lady Freyja, this is not how I expected this to happen."


    Freyja''s smile was dazzling. "I''ve had a great deal of practice in diplomacy over the years, Mr. Hammer. And I find it''s always best to keep things... Frank, and amicable." She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly. "But now that we''ve broken the ice, as I believe you mortals put it, let''s get down to business, a friendly demeanor does not mean I will allow Asgard to be fleeced."


    She leaned forward, her gaze locking onto Justin''s, all traces of humor gone. "Asgard is willing to offer weregild for those killed by Asgardian hands during Loki''s... Indiscretion. And we are prepared to negotiate on the matter of Hela. But you must understand that our resources are not limitless, and our patience is not infinite. We will not be bullied into giving away more than we can afford."


    Justin''s smile faded, his expression turning serious, it was finally time for the brass tacks. "I''m not trying to bully anyone, Lady Freyja. But I have to protect my world, and I have to think long-term. Hela is a danger. And as for Loki, I think we both know that his actions were more than just a simple ''indiscretion''."


    Freyja''s eyes narrowed, but she nodded slowly, a serene smile still on her face. "Very well, Mr. Hammer. Let''s see if we can find a compromise that benefits us both."


    As they continued to negotiate, Justin couldn''t help but feel a surge of respect for the woman across from him. She was a formidable opponent, and this was shaping up to be a far more interesting conversation than he had anticipated. He doubted he could push this woman very far. It was unfortunate that Thor wasn''t the one he was negotiating with, the man would have given away Asgard itself.


    Justin''s smile was cold, his eyes gleaming with calculation as gave out a suggestion for payment, "A fleet of spaceships. Operational, military grade. Enough to secure this system against any potential threats."


    Thor''s reaction was immediate and surprised Justin, who thought he''d be partial to such a martial offer. Thor surged to his feet, his face a mask of outrage. "You dare


    to make such demands of Asgard?" Thor''s voice thundered through the room, his eyes blazing with barely restrained fury. "You ask for ships as if they''re mere toys to be handed out!"


    Freyja placed a calming hand on Thor''s arm, her voice soothing but firm. "Sit down, Thor. This is a negotiation, no one is ever serious with their first offer. Sit, and listen!"


    Thor looked at her incredulously, his frustration palpable. "Mother, you can''t seriously consider - "


    Justin wondered how emasculating it was as a king, to be so thoroughly chastised by ones mother in a negotiation.


    "Thor," She interrupted gently, though her tone held a note of authority that brooked no argument. "Please sit down."


    With visible effort, Thor bit back his retort and dropped back into his chair, though his glare remained fixed on Justin.


    Justin, for his part, remained unruffled, his gaze steady on Freyja. "I don''t think it''s an unreasonable request, Lady Freyja. After all, I''m asking for something tangible in exchange for managing a potential catastrophe. Hela is no ordinary threat, and if she decides to unleash her full power¡­" He let the sentence trail off, the implication clear.


    Freyja''s eyes were thoughtful, her expression calm. "You have a point," She conceded. "But what you''re asking for is quite significant. An entire fleet of ships¡­ I''m afraid that''s beyond what we can offer, after all, Hela is also capable of defending Midgard."


    Justin leaned back, folding his hands over his chest. "Then perhaps Asgard could act as an intermediary to help Earth acquire such technology from other planets. And while you''re at it, open up trade routes for Earth goods in exchange for extraterrestrial technologies. Earth is, after all, just beginning to expand into the wider galaxy."


    Thor''s brow furrowed as he listened, the tension in his posture slowly easing as he processed Justin''s proposal. He glanced at Freyja, clearly struggling to follow the flow of the negotiation.


    Freyja, however, seemed unfazed. "So, you want Asgard to act as a broker, to facilitate trade and technological exchange?"


    Justin nodded. "Precisely. Earth would still be a fledgling player on the galactic stage if we tried it on our own. Having Asgard as an ally would do wonders for our standing."


    Freyja hummed thoughtfully, her fingers tapping lightly on the armrest of her chair. "And in exchange, you promise to keep Hela on Midgard and not hold Loki''s actions against Asgard."


    Justin smiled faintly. "I think that''s almost to the point of fair. But I''m still going to need some assurance. One ship, top-of-the-line, to help us build our own fleet, something for us to analyze and build off. We need to be able to defend ourselves."


    Freyja''s eyes narrowed slightly, though there was a glint of amusement in them. "A single ship, you say? And Asgard''s assistance in trade and technology?"


    Justin nodded, watching her closely. "And Heimdall''s help in finding one man." He threw in, as he saw that Freyja seemed amendable.


    Thor, who had been frowning deeply, leaned forward. "What man?"


    "Someone of personal interest," Justin said smoothly, keeping his tone casual. "Someone who has caused a lot of trouble for me and mine. I''d like to have a little¡­ Chat with him."


    Freyja''s lips curved into a faint smile. "Why am I not surprised you''re the kind of man that wishes to squeeze every last drop out of a negotiation."


    "Because you''ve cheated with magic to see how this would go?" Justin replied, his tone dry. It was a guess, but from how utterly non responsive she was to t


    hat, he figured he was dead on, Freyja just moving right past it with a smile.


    She tilted her head, considering. "One ship, top-of-the-line, and Heimdall''s assistance in finding this individual. And in exchange, you will ensure Hela remains here and can''t step foot on Asgard... And you will not hold Loki''s actions against Asgard and join the Nine realms in full under Asgard''s dominion."


    "And the trade deal and brokering with the rest of the Galaxy," Justin reminded her. "With favorable terms for Hammer Industries."


    Freyja''s smile widened. "Ah, yes. Of course. Hammer Industries, not Midgard alone." Then she winked teasingly.


    Justin didn''t miss the emphasis. She understood exactly what he was after - control, influence, power. And she was willing to play along, as long as it suited her interests. As long as Asgard came out well for it.


    Thor looked between them, clearly frustrated with the subterfuge, but trying to keep his composure. "Mother, you can''t just -"


    "Thor," Freyja said gently but firmly. "This is how diplomacy works. We are ensuring that Asgard''s interests are protected while making a valuable ally. You must learn to see the bigger picture."


    Thor''s jaw clenched, but he nodded, albeit reluctantly. "Very well."


    Justin watched the interplay between mother and son with interest. It was clear that Freyja held the real power here, and Thor was still learning the ropes of leadership. It was an interesting dynamic, and one he could use to his advantage in the future.


    He would accept Asgard''s dominion for now, because they were frankly extremely hands off, but one day they''d be able to stand on their own, without any fear of anything Asgard could bring to bear.


    "So," Justin said, his voice calm and measured. "Do we have an agreement?"


    Freyja''s eyes gleamed with amusement. "You''re quite the negotiator, Mr. Hammer. Very well. We have an accord."


    Justin inclined his head slightly. "Excellent."


    Freyja leaned back in her chair, a satisfied smile on her lips. "It''s refreshing to deal with someone who knows what they want and isn''t afraid to ask for it. If this were Asgard or Vanaheim, we''d be arguing for years over these terms."


    Justin chuckled softly. "Mortals tend to move a bit faster, I''m afraid."


    "Indeed," Freyja said, her eyes twinkling. "It''s a quality I''ve come to appreciate lately."


    Thor, still looking slightly bewildered by the rapid conclusion of the negotiations, glanced between them. "So¡­ We''re done?"


    Freyja laughed softly, a sound that seemed to lighten the room. "Yes, my dear. We''re done. Asgard and Hammer Industries will enter into an alliance. Midgard will benefit from our knowledge and resources as they join the nine in full, and we will ensure that Hela remains¡­ Contained."


    Thor frowned, clearly still processing everything. "But the summit is about to begin¡­"


    Freyja made a small, dismissive gesture. "The summit is merely a formality, Thor. All the bickering and politicking will eventually lead to the same agreement we''ve just made here. It''s the nature of diplomacy." She gave him a look, "Hence why it''s important to create a rapport with the leaders who matter."


    Thor looked almost crestfallen. "So we''ll just be¡­ Talking for no reason?"


    "Welcome to politics," Justin said dryly, his lips curling into a smirk. "There''s few battles and copious amounts of talking about nothing in your future, King Thor."


    Thor''s frown deepened, but he didn''t argue. Instead, he turned to Freyja, his expression serious. "Mother, are you certain this is the right course?"


    Freyja''s smile was warm, maternal. "Yes, Thor. This is the best way forward for Asgard. Trust me."


    Thor hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Very well. I trust you."


    Freyja reached out and placed a gentle hand on his cheek. "And I''m very proud of you for listening, my son. You''re learning and will soon be a great king."


    Justin kept quiet, having very different thoughts about that.


    Thor''s expression softened slightly, the tension in his posture easing. "Thank you, Mother."


    After that, things closed fairly quickly.


    Justin took great enjoyment in watching for the next few days, as not only Thor, but the likes of Alexander Pierce, fought back and forth over conference tables, their words meaningless.


    Because the people that actually mattered had already settled things.


    Access to not only Asgardian markets, but the Nine, and the wider galaxy¡­


    He''d changed his mind. Keeping Hela around was worth that. Without a doubt.


    <hr>


    Day after the summit, Hammerhaven


    The sun filtered through the reinforced glass of Justin''s office, casting a warm, golden light over the modern and meticulously designed space.


    Tony Stark stood just inside the doorway, his posture tense despite his casual demeanor. He looked better than he had just a week or two ago - clean-shaven, dressed in a tailored suit - but there was a haunted look in his eyes that spoke of sleepless nights and unresolved pain.


    "What do you want, Hammer?" Tony asked, his voice edged with weariness and frustration. "I''m not even sure why I bothered coming, to be honest."


    Justin glanced up from his desk, a faint smile tugging at his lips. He gestured toward the bar. "Drink?"


    Tony shook his head, his gaze flicking to the decanter before he looked away. "No, thanks. Pepper is monitoring my intake." He grumbled.


    "Good," Justin said, leaning back in his chair. "I was worried you might show up half in the bag."


    "Yeah, well, still might after this conversation," Tony muttered, shifting his weight, still looking weary. "But not right now. So, what''s this about?"


    Justin''s smile widened as he leaned forward, steepling his fingers. "You saw the announcement, right?"


    Tony''s lips pressed into a thin line. "Yeah, I saw. ''For Earth'', huh? You expect anyone to buy that?" He shook his head, "Not even I am that brazen, and that''s saying something," His lips twitched minisculely, "I''m the one that dated those playboy triplets without telling any of them I was dating the others too."


    "Why not? It''s true in a manner of speaking," Justin said with a shrug. "Earth will benefit. Trade deals, advanced technology, access to the galaxy. Sure, Hammer Industries will be the one managing it, but everyone wins. Well, except the governments, but who cares about them?" He smirked, knowing exactly how many governments across the world were feeling right now.


    Tony scoffed, crossing his arms over his chest. "You''ve got some nerve, Hammer." But he had some spark back, his eyes lighting up with challenge.


    Justin smirked. "It''s what makes me so charming."


    "Alright, you''re obviously delusional, saying that. Let''s move on, you''ve got me here," Tony said, exasperated. "What do you really want?"


    "I want you onboard, Tony. Fully." Justin''s tone was suddenly serious, his gaze intent. "No more rivalry, no more games. We''re going to have a fully operational warship from space in orbit soon. We need real space defenses, and a fleet, and we need them now. I want Stark Industries to help build up the space infrastructure seriously. We''ll hire you as a contractor, pay you whatever you want. But we need to get this done."


    Justin paused for a moment staring Tony down, "Forget about electronics or whatever else you''re playing with, Tony, become the guy for space infrastructure, and the designer for a fleet¡­"


    Tony was silent for a long time, his eyes unfocused as he stared at the floor. Finally, he let out a bitter laugh. "Repulsor tech," He said softly. "I''ll give you the blueprints. For the ships." Offering an olive branch.


    Justin''s eyebrows rose. "Generous. But we already know how to do that. We were just avoiding it to keep from stepping on your patents." Because you''d sue the crap out of us, and that would have been annoying and a waste of time.


    Tony''s mouth twisted in a humorless smile. "Figures. So, what more do you want? You can''t be serious about cutting me in that heavily on things"


    Justin moved around the desk to stand in front of Tony, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I want you fully committed. Not just your tech - your mind, your vision. We''re talking about the next frontier, Tony. Mining asteroids, building orbital stations, defending Earth from whatever''s out there. Imagine it: space, Tony. It''ll be ours. We''ll be the ones keeping Earth safe."


    Tony''s eyes narrowed, and he glanced at Justin with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. "And you think I''m just going to jump into bed with you on this?"


    Justin''s grip on his shoulder tightened slightly. "I think you know it''s the right move. And because I''ve got something that might help you make up your mind on what side you''re on."


    Justin turned and gestured to the holographic display above his desk. The screen flickered to life, showing a high-definition video of General Ross, restrained, his face contorted with rage.


    "What''s this?" Tony asked, his voice wary.


    "Just watch," Justin said quietly.


    On the screen, Ross''s voice crackled through the speakers. "Oh, I won''t lie, Hammer. Sending that son of a bitch to his death was the best decision I''ve made in years. Stark needed to be reminded that there''s a price for getting in my way."


    Tony''s face went pale, his hands balling into fists. He stared at the screen, his body rigid, as if bracing against the emotional blow.


    Justin took a step closer, his voice dropping to a near-whisper. "It''s up to you, Tony. What happens next."


    The view shifted, showing Ross in his cell, ranting and raving, his face flushed with fury as he screamed obscenities.


    Justin held out a small remote to Tony, placing it in his hand giving him a meaningful look. "Completely up to you, Tony."


    Without another word, Justin turned and left the room.


    <hr>


    Moments later,


    "Sir, the US military power armor divisions have just split off training exercises against orders - the trajectory has them moving towards Hammer industries assets." Nail reported urgently.


    "What the fuck!?"


    <hr>

 God of…

    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, two hours after the attack began,


    Justin stood at the edge of the grand main square in Hammerhaven, his eyes trained on the Asgardians gathered before him. Around him, some of the Earth''s most powerful leaders or their representatives were arrayed like pieces on a chessboard, a parade of forced smiles and stiff posture. President Ellis stood to his left, flanked by Secret Service agents, while Alexander Pierce hovered nearby, his usual air of cool arrogance only slightly marred by the tension in his eyes. Both men wore carefully neutral expressions, but Justin could feel the simmering resentment beneath the surface.


    Mixed with the feeling of frustration, as they were all stuck here, while the US military performed terrorist actions on home soil.


    They all knew what was happening while they wasted time on this.


    Justin''s heart pounded with frustration, though his outward demeanor remained calm. His implant buzzed every few minutes with updates from Nail, the reports detailing the destruction being wrought across the United States by the rogue power armors -  the armors acting like drones, turning on his factories, offices, and clinics. The attacks weren''t happening in Hammerhaven, of course. That would have made them easy to repel. Instead, they were targeting his operations all over the country, and not every facility had the defenses in place to fend off a fully armed, armored assault.


    The most recent update had been particularly grim. Nail had whispered in his ear: Four factories gone. Hundreds dead. And the carnage was still unfolding.


    Ellis and Pierce should have been dealing with the same chaos, considering these attacks were happening on U.S. soil. But instead, they were standing there, forced to watch Thor and his Einherjar prepare to leave, bound by the unspoken agreement between them that Earth couldn''t look weak in front of Asgard. The entire square was lined with SHIELD agents, Secret Service personnel, and assorted guards from various world leaders, their faces pale and strained. Everyone knew what was going on, yet no one could make a move until the damn aliens were gone.


    Thor, for his part, appeared utterly oblivious to the rising tension in the air. Standing atop the grand marble steps at the heart of Hammerhaven''s main square, he was in the middle of a long-winded speech. His booming voice echoed through the streets, as if unaware that the world leaders arrayed before him were barely listening. His words were full of talk about friendship and brotherhood between Midgard and Asgard, about how, should any troubles arise, his hammer would be ready to answer the call.


    Justin kept his polite smile in place, but inside, he wanted to scream. Just leave already, he thought, clenching his jaw. All he could do was stand there, his hands neatly folded in front of him, waiting for the Asgardians to finally go.


    Even when they weren''t even doing anything, they managed to make his life more annoying.


    Nail''s voice came through his implant again, soft and precise. "Sir, casualties are now estimated at over a thousand. The rogue power armors are continuing to hit our key facilities, though Storm has successfully protected the New York offices."


    Justin''s teeth ground together as he forced a nod, as if agreeing with something Thor had said. His eyes flicked briefly to Ellis, whose face was now twitching in barely contained frustration. The U.S. President was a smart man.- he had to be boiling inside, knowing his country was under siege by his own forces, yet bound by decorum to stand here, smiling at Thor''s speech. Pierce looked equally strained, his eyes flicking over to Justin every so often, as if seeking an explanation or an outlet for his frustration.


    If this was a normal diplomatic party, they could have made their excuses, but this was a different planet. Alien diplomats, no one wanted to be the ones left out or making a bad impression on their new ''allies''.


    Thor''s speech finally began to wind down, his face glowing with the pride of a man who thought he had just accomplished something great. With one final, grand gesture, he raised Mjolnir high into the air, calling out, "Midgard and Asgard will now be allies for eternity!"


    He expected cheers obviously. Instead, the crowd - made up mostly of politicians, diplomats and military brass - responded with a half-hearted smattering of applause. Their claps were more perfunctory than anything, a polite gesture rather than true enthusiasm. No one was in the mood for celebration when things were this uncertain.


    Even people generally disliking the US were walking on tiptoes, if the US military was going rogue, that was an issue that got the entire world panicking, who knew who could be next?


    Thor''s smile faltered for a moment, clearly confused by the lukewarm response. Freyja, ever perceptive, stepped forward and laid a gentle hand on her son''s arm, guiding him back. Her gaze turned toward Justin, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she approached.


    "I thank you for your hospitality, Mr. Hammer," Freyja said in a tone that was both regal and warm, her voice carrying easily over the muted buzz of the square. "Though I must say, it wasn''t necessary for you to maintain such a front during the battle you''re facing right now. I wouldn''t have taken offense."


    Justin stiffened slightly, though he kept his face a perfect mask of calm. Of course, she knew. Why wouldn''t she? The queen mother of Asgard wasn''t blind to what was happening on Earth, even as her people prepared to depart. Fucking Magic no doubt, or Heimdall and his cheating peepers¡­ But there was no way in hell he was about to discuss Earth''s, or Hammer industries internal security matters with an alien, no matter how well-meaning she appeared.


    "I''m afraid this is as much for the people behind me as it is for yourself, my lady," Justin replied smoothly, his tone impeccably polite. He inclined his head in acknowledgment, giving away nothing else.


    Freyja''s smile widened, the amusement in her eyes growing. "I see. A show for appearances, then." She took a step closer, extending her hand toward him for a handshake. "This is Midgarda custom, no?" Her tone was playful, but there was a glint in her eye that made Justin wary.


    He took her hand, the warmth of her grip surprising. As they shook, he felt something slip into his palm - a small, thin piece of parchment, neatly folded. Freyja gave him a knowing look, her eyes dancing with mirth.


    "Another Midgard custom," She said with a wink, lowering her voice conspiratorially. "For subterfuge. I saw it in one of your moving pictures." She sounded genuinely delighted by the concept. "The location of your target, as provided by Heimdall."


    Justin blinked, glancing down at the parchment now nestled in his hand. He hadn''t expected that. His pulse quickened, the implications of what she had just handed him sinking in. Sinister.


    He quickly schooled his features back into calm neutrality and bowed his head slightly. "I thank you, my lady," He murmured, his voice carefully measured. His mind, however, was racing. I have you now, Sinister.


    Freyja gave him one last, appraising look, her smile softening into something almost cryptic. "Soon, I would think," She said, her voice carrying a note of quiet mystery that made Justin raise an eyebrow. "Yes, any day now." She added, humming melodically.


    Before he could respond, she turned and rejoined the throng of Asgardians, her graceful steps taking her back toward Thor''s side. The God of Thunder raised his hammer once more, calling out for Heimdall in his booming voice. A heartbeat later, the sky above Hammerhaven lit up with the swirling colors of the Bifrost. The air vibrated with the hum of ancient magic, and within moments, the Asgardians were gone - vanished in a brilliant flash of light.


    The moment the light faded, Justin''s polite facade cracked, his expression hardening as he turned his gaze toward the remaining humans. President Ellis was already moving, his security detail quickly surrounding him as they began escorting him away from the square - no doubt heading for a secure bunker, no way they were risking using Air Force One right now. Ellis shot Justin a withering look as he passed, clearly displeased with the events of the summit.


    "Good riddance," Justin muttered under his breath, already thinking ahead to what needed to be done. Ellis had been useful, but Justin was getting to a point where who was the head of state of any given nation didn''t matter.


    They''d all have no choice but to fall in line.


    Europe had been the test bed.


    Alexander Pierce did not leave so easily however, Justin noted with distaste. As Ellis disappeared into the crowd, Pierce approached, his own contingent of SHIELD agents ensuring no one else came near them. His expression was calm, almost jovial, but his eyes were sharp and cold.


    "Justin," Pierce said, his tone light, though there was an unmistakable edge to it. "You didn''t feel the need to inform me that you''d already made a deal with Asgard?"


    Does a bear inform the fish it''s about to be a meal? He thought with a smidgeon of amusement. If Ellis was getting superfluous soon, Pierce was getting uppity, Nail was watching them closely, and HYDRA had been making waves lately¡­


    Including dealing with the Hellfire Club, and the Mandarin on the sly.


    It made Justin think they''d outlived their usefulness.


    Justin slipped the parchment Freyja had given him into his pocket with a smooth, practiced motion. He turned to face Pierce, one hand in his pocket, the other casually hanging at his side. "Pierce, we''re allies of a sort, but that doesn''t make you my nursemaid. I don''t need to tell you everything." He drawled, an amused quirk to his lips.


    Pierce''s smile tightened, his eyes narrowing. "Not much of an alliance, then."


    "Maybe not," Justin agreed, shrugging slightly. "Do you wish to end it?"


    The words hung in the air like a challenge, and Justin watched with some satisfaction as Pierce''s face momentarily froze, his eyes narrowing as if he were considering his options. But in the end, Pierce''s expression twisted into a grimace, as though he''d swallowed something bitter.


    "No," Pierce said finally, though his tone was clipped. "I am just¡­ Expressing my displeasure at being kept out of the loop."


    Justin let out a low, humorless chuckle. "Speaking of being out of the loop, why did SHIELD fail to check for backdoors in the goblin power armors? Especially after the Green Goblin became a thing¡­"


    Too bad he''d already taken Ross, he''d have really enjoyed watching the man realize his warnings way back when - had come to fruition.


    But he couldn''t taunt the dead. And Ross was unfortunately no longer with them.


    So sad.


    Anyway¡­


    "It seems a little bit of an oversight, don''t you think?" Justin added, just to twist the dagger a little.


    Pierce''s face tightened further, his lips pressing into a thin line. "We did check."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his voice dry. "Should I compliment your utter incompetence, then?"


    Pierce''s jaw clenched, the faintest twitch of anger flickering across his face. Justin felt a surge of satisfaction in treating Pierce like nothing more than a buzzing irritant - an obstacle to be swatted away rather than someone he needed to fear.


    Pierce remained rigid, his face an impassive mask despite the palpable frustration radiating from him. "I suspect infiltration and subversion of the reports," He said, his voice tight with barely contained anger.


    SHIELD or HYDRA same difference in competency, Justin thought derisively. He smiled, sharp and mocking. "So, incompetence, then. Good to know." He checked his wristwatch nonchalantly, as if dismissing the conversation entirely. "Oh look, time flies. I need to deal with this attack, seeing as SHIELD isn''t doing much to help." His tone dripped with contempt as he casually turned on his heel, walking away from Pierce without a backward glance.


    "Justin¡­" Pierce growled, his voice low with warning.


    But Justin didn''t stop, didn''t acknowledge him further. He was done with Pierce, done playing games with the so-called ally who seemed more like a liability by the day. Instead, he strode toward his offices, Domino and a contingent of his personal security team falling into line beside him like clockwork.


    The tension in the air was thick as they walked, Justin''s mind raced, sorting through the reports Nail had fed him over the past hour. The damage was already catastrophic for his reputation, and the losses were stacking higher with each passing minute.


    Storm, Yelena, and Phantazia were already on the ground, leading the H.A.M.M.E.R. team to pacify the rogue armors. But even with their expertise, there were simply too many targets, and the damage was spiraling out of control.


    As soon as they entered the towering structure of Hammer Industries'' headquarters, Justin''s calm mask slipped, his expression darkening as the automatic doors sealed shut behind them. The tension that had coiled in his chest during Thor''s agonizingly long farewell speech now surged to the surface.


    "Nail, any new information?" He asked sharply, his voice carrying through the halls as they made their way toward his private office.


    Nail''s voice, soft and composed, responded instantly in his ear. "Sir, the tally now includes five factories that are completely destroyed, two others in major disrepair, and two office buildings gone. Additionally, seven Panacea clinics have been wiped out."


    Justin''s teeth clenched as he absorbed the news, his eyes narrowing in frustration. "Casualties?" He asked, though he already knew the answer wasn''t going to be good.


    His average employees did not have Extremis, they just had access to Panacea at differing levels depending on their position. His security teams all had the treatments, but lacked flight capabilities to truly contest the Goblin armors before they got in range and began firing missiles and bombs.


    "The death toll is still being calculated, but it has reached over one thousand civilians. Many of your employees were caught in the initial attacks," Nail added, her voice tinged with something close to regret, though the AI remained mostly clinical in her delivery.


    Justin growled deep in his throat, a vicious sound that made Domino glance at him out of the corner of her eye. The attack wasn''t just on his factories and clinics; it was an attack on his reputation. Whoever had orchestrated this knew exactly how to strike, where to hit him where it hurt.


    They''re trying to weaken me, to undermine my power, he thought bitterly. Murdering my people¡­


    Striking just as he''d made a big deal about protecting humanity¡­ Making him out to be a liar¡­


    "How many of the armors are left operational?" He demanded, his fists clenched tightly as he resisted the urge to take out his anger on the nearest piece of furniture. He''d deployed the Iron Legion, but they''d been too far away to stop most of the attacks.


    Not to say they''d been ineffectual once they got there, just¡­ Too little too late, and now he''d have to deal with governments freaking out that he had a drone army, during a crisis where a drone army was attacking.


    Perhaps he should have kept the Legion back¡­


    "Less than fifty remain," Nail confirmed. "Storm and the others are actively hunting them down. New York''s operations are intact - Storm managed to protect it entirely without any damage, somewhat assisted by local heroes stepping in immediately."


    Domino let out a low whistle. "New girl''s got game," She murmured, her tone more impressed than surprised.


    Justin gritted his teeth, his eyes glowing faintly with barely contained fury. "Not now, Domino," He snapped. His mind was already calculating his next move, weighing the possibilities. This attack had come at the worst possible time - just as he was showing the world that he was the only one who could protect them, this happened.


    He fished into his pocket, pulling out the small piece of parchment Freyja had slipped him during their handshake. It was a curious move on her part, she was definitely Loki''s mother, but Justin wasn''t complaining. The contents of the parchment - Sinister''s location - could be the key to get something out of this entire mess.


    "Nail," He said, his voice tight with focus, "I want every satellite available around this location, in case he escapes again." He unfolded the parchment, scanning the coordinates written in Freyja''s neat hand. "I''m going for Sinister. Right now."


    Domino''s eyes widened slightly, a flicker of concern passing over her usually unshakable expression. She coughed lightly, her voice a touch hesitant. "Uh, boss, are you sure about that? You''re not letting your anger cloud your judgment, are you?"


    Justin shot her an irritated look, his fists still balled at his sides. "Shut up, Domino. You''re coming with me, and we''ll be fine," He said curtly.


    Domino sighed, shaking her head in exasperation. "Eileen is going to be so pissed at me," She muttered under her breath, her tone half-joking but tinged with real frustration. "I need a raise¡­"


    "Actually we''ll make one stop first¡­" Justin said, opening a portal.


    "Oh, fantastic¡­" Domino said sarcastically, looking through the portal as they stepped through.


    <hr>


    Malibu, California,


    Tony Stark stepped through the front door of the Malibu mansion with his arms full of shopping bags, expertly kicking the door shut with his hip. The warm, salty ocean breeze filtered in through the large windows, filling the air with the scent of the sea as the house''s ambient lighting flickered on in the hallway in response to his arrival.


    "Honey, I''m home! And I bring gifts!" Tony called out with his usual bravado, a lopsided grin tugging at his lips as he sauntered down the hallway, arms weighed down with brightly colored bags.


    Pepper appeared from the living room, a relieved smile on her face. Her gaze flicked to the collection of bags in Tony''s arms, her brow lifting in curiosity before her expression settled into something more deadpan. "Someone''s in a better mood," She remarked, her voice wry. "But, Tony, why are all the bags from Victoria''s Secret?"


    Tony''s eyes widened in faux innocence, as if the question had truly stumped him. "Is that any way to greet a hardworking man who comes home with a little something, something for his girl?" He raised his eyebrows and put on his most exaggerated charming expression, holding the bags up like a trophy.


    Pepper crossed her arms, biting back a smile, though the twitch at the corners of her lips gave her away. "Is it really a gift for me? Because it seems like you''re the one who''s going to enjoy it the most," She fired back, her eyes narrowing playfully.


    Tony swept past her with a loud kiss on the cheek, heading toward the kitchen nook, his stride light and carefree. He dropped the bags unceremoniously on the counter and went straight for the espresso machine, giving it a light whack to coax it to life. "Isn''t my enjoyment your enjoyment or something like that?" He quipped, glancing over his shoulder at her with a mischievous grin. "Like, in sickness and in health? For richer or poorer? You know, the usual?"


    Pepper followed him into the kitchen, leaning against the counter as she folded her arms, pretending to be exasperated though her amusement was clear. "Not quite how that works, but I''m glad you''re feeling better."


    Tony hummed in agreement, tapping the side of the espresso machine again as it whirred to life. "It''s weird, right?" He said, his voice quieter now, more contemplative. He turned to look at her fully, the weight of his thoughts momentarily flashing in his eyes. "I mean, I''m still upset. But¡­ I''ve made my decision, I''ve chosen a way forward, and it''s like this¡­ Mountain has been lifted off my back."


    Pepper''s expression softened as she moved closer, slipping her arms around him from behind, resting her head lightly against his back. "I''m happy for you, Tony," Ehe said softly, her fingers trailing gently over his chest. "Are you going to share what exactly you''ve decided? Or do I have to guess?"


    Tony smiled at the warmth of her touch, leaning into her embrace for a moment before turning around to face her, his arms wrapping around her waist. "Don''t worry, it''s nothing involving the Playboy Bunny of the Year. That''s next month." He grinned as Pepper swatted at his shoulder, laughing as she tried to hide her own smile.


    "Jarvis, what''s he up to?" Pepper said, raising an eyebrow in Tony''s direction, her tone mock-serious as if seeking out a secret Tony wouldn''t tell her. "You''re always with this lughead. Spill."


    Tony snorted. "Like Jarvis would ever betray the bro code, right, Jarv?"


    Jarvis''s calm, British voice filled the room. "I''m afraid, sir, that the ''bro code'' does not supersede Mrs Stark''s'' level of access. He met with Justin Hammer approximately two and a half hours ago, and took a portal back to California."


    Pepper''s eyes narrowed as she looked up at Tony, who winced slightly at the revelation.


    "Uh, Pep¡­ What''re you doing?" Tony asked nervously as she grabbed his face in both hands, inspecting him as if searching for something.


    "Just checking for signs of mind control," She said, her eyes narrowing further as her hands remained on either side of his head. "Why are you happier after seeing that monster?"


    Tony grimaced, letting out a sigh. "Okay, look, I forgot you kinda hate the guy." His voice dropped, taking on a more apologetic tone.


    "Sir," Jarvis interrupted dryly, "Should I remind you of the purchase you made earlier today, specifically to beg for forgiveness when Mrs Stark found out?"


    Pepper''s unimpressed gaze bored into Tony as he let out a more exaggerated sigh. "Jarvis!" Tony exclaimed. "Bro code!"


    "My apologies, sir," Jarvis replied, unbothered, "But I am still following the standing protocol: when it comes to Justin Hammer, report everything to Mrs Stark."


    Tony groaned. "Not on me!" He shook his head, wagging a finger, "I don''t know who made you this snarky, buddy¡­"


    Pepper remained silent, her arms crossed and her foot tapping impatiently. "Tony¡­"


    Tony sighed, shoulders slumping. "Okay, okay. So, I might have signed Stark Industries on for a few deals with Hammer to develop¡­ Space. A space fleet, asteroid mining. And, y''know, a few other minor things."


    Pepper''s expression didn''t change, though she slowly nodded. "Financially, that''s¡­ Well, it''ll be amazing. It''ll make up for the losses we''ve taken in the electronics market, but Tony¡­ Hammer? Really?"


    Tony looked away, rubbing the back of his neck. "I owe him one, Pep. And¡­ Look, if you take a good, hard look at the world right now, do you see a better option? Just look at what he''s done. What we could do if we worked together."


    Pepper closed her eyes, rubbing her temples as if trying to stave off a growing headache. "Tony, he''s destroying governments."


    Tony winced again, clearly uncomfortable with her words. "Yeah¡­ But Pep, tell me people have it worse right now. What have the governments really done to help? Every disaster we''ve seen, every threat¡­ The government can''t handle any of it." He brightened up momentarily, "And he''s going to give me access to Pym particles, Pep, Pym particles!"


    That alone made it worth it. He wasn''t blind to Hammer''s faults. He just¡­ Saw that everyone else sucked just as bad, but Hammer was actually improving things. So it gave him only one real alternative.


    Pepper sighed, her hand dropping as she pinched the bridge of her nose. "That''s not a good enough reason to upend democracy, Tony. Just because the government is struggling doesn''t mean someone like Hammer should have free rein."


    Tony frowned, the conflict clear in his expression. He stepped forward, taking her hands gently in his. "Tell me to fight him, and I will." His voice was reluctant, but there was sincerity in it.


    Pepper was silent for a long time, her eyes closing as she leaned into his chest, her thoughts swirling. Minutes passed in quiet contemplation as Tony held her, his heartbeat steady beneath her cheek.


    Finally, she spoke, her voice soft. "I''ll follow your lead."


    Tony let out a sigh of relief, holding her tighter.


    In his mind, he replayed the moment in Hammer''s office. The moment Justin had handed him the remote. The moment that had changed everything.


    Tony could''ve let Ross go. He could''ve reported Hammer for kidnapping the man, gone to the government and fought Hammer every step of the way.


    Or¡­


    He could press the button. Get revenge for Rhodey. Join Hammer, and in doing so, improve the lives of millions. Maybe billions.


    As he stood there, holding Pepper close and breathing in her familiar scent, Tony knew he couldn''t regret it.


    Ross had died screaming.


    And Tony¡­


    He was okay with that.


    <hr>


    New York City,


    Jean Grey landed softly on the rooftop of a high-rise building in New York City, her feet barely making a sound as she touched down beside Storm, who was already perched on the edge. The wind tugged at their hair and clothing, carrying the distant hum of city life up from below. Storm sat with her legs dangling off the side of the building, gazing out over the sprawling urban landscape, her long white hair flowing freely in the wind. She patted the ledge next to her, inviting Jean to sit down.


    "What''s the news?" Jean asked quietly, not quite sure how to talk to Ororo now that they weren''t on the same team anymore. It felt strange, distant. Their shared history stretched back so far, but now, things were different. The line between them felt palpable, like an unspoken boundary she didn''t know what to do with.


    Storm didn''t seem fazed by the change, though. She gave a small nod toward the city, her voice calm, but a faint shadow of frustration darkened her expression. "No more threats spotted in the vicinity of New York. We''re basically just waiting for the all-clear that all the armors have been taken down."


    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator.


    Jean glanced at her, sensing the underlying tension. "It sounds like it''s been rough."


    Storm''s mouth quirked in a grim smile. "You could say that. It''s¡­ Unsettling, knowing the soldiers trapped inside those armors had no control. They were turned into drones, their voices¡­" Her voice trailed off, her frown deepening. "I tried to take them down without killing anyone, but¡­ It''s power armor. Some needed more force than others, and I''m not sure I always succeeded."


    Spiderman had honestly been more successful than her at that. His webs were perfect for non lethal takedowns, even if he couldn''t handle the amount of enemies Storm could.


    They''d been lucky New York had so many local heroes, or the damage could have been horrible.


    Jean sighed, wrapping her arms around her knees as she sat down beside Storm. Her posture was slumped, and her face mirrored the heaviness she felt in her heart. "It seems like there''s just more violence every day," She muttered, her eyes focusing on a point far in the distance. "The mess in Europe, now this¡­ When does it end?"


    Storm glanced at Jean, her usual serene demeanor marred by a flicker of sadness. "It ends when someone wins," She murmured quietly. Her words carried a weight that Jean wasn''t prepared for, but they rang with truth. It was a bitter reality, but Storm had long since accepted it.


    Violence was inherently human, and wouldn''t disappear, but war? War could be removed from the equation eventually. Even if the manner of the solution didn''t fill Storm with joy.


    "Is that why you joined Justin Hammer fully?" Jean asked, her voice soft, hesitant. She had wanted to ask this question since the beginning, but it felt heavy on her tongue, like an accusation she didn''t want to make.


    Storm''s lips quirked upward slightly in a teasing smile. "Ah, is that the real reason you sought me out?" She asked, gently ruffling Jean''s hair. "Not for my company, but to pump me for information?"


    Jean pouted, a faint huff escaping her lips as she pulled away slightly. "Don''t tease me, Ororo," She said, her voice a little petulant. "I just¡­ I want to know what I''m supposed to do now. Everything feels like it''s shifting, and I don''t know where I fit anymore."


    Storm hummed thoughtfully, leaning back slightly as she watched the clouds drift lazily across the sky. "I can''t answer that for you, Jean," She said after a moment, her tone soft but firm. "Everyone has to make their own choice about where they stand in the coming days."


    It was becoming clear. Even the regular citizens were seeing it.


    You were either Pro-Hammer, or you weren''t. There were no bystanders in this choice.


    Jean''s brow furrowed, her expression growing more frustrated. "Do we really have to draw lines like that?" She asked, her voice tinged with sadness. "Why can''t we all just¡­ Get along? Why does it always have to come down to picking sides?"


    "It doesn''t work like that," Storm replied gently, her eyes soft with compassion. She wished it were different, but they both knew better. "There are always sides. People will always choose their path, whether they want to or not."


    "Yeah," Jean muttered, her head dropping slightly as the weight of Storm''s words settled on her shoulders.


    After a moment of silence, Jean turned her head slightly toward Storm. "Why did you do it?" She asked quietly. "Why join Hammer? Was it because of the Professor?"


    Storm shook her head, a soft sigh escaping her lips as she leaned her shoulder against Jean''s. Her hand reached over, grasping one of Jean''s gently. "Not entirely. Although, I won''t say it had no effect." She gazed out over the city, her eyes distant. "You have to understand, Jean¡­ The writing on the wall is already there. Hammer will take over the world. In some ways, he already has."


    The world economy was now tied to him to such an extent he could destroy the world by just¡­ Stopping things, pulling back.


    The rest was now simply the bloody business of making the rest of the world acknowledge the fact that Hammer held all the power.


    Jean''s eyes widened in disbelief. "And how can you agree with that?" She asked, her tone a mix of sadness and disbelief.


    Storm looked at Jean with a serious expression, her voice steady. "Because rejecting reality does me no favors. You might see it as selling my soul, but I''m ensuring that metahumans will continue to be treated fairly. I''m positioning myself where I can make a difference, where I can influence things for the better." She raised an eyebrow, "Would you rather Emma Frost or me as an influence?"


    Jean opened her mouth to speak, but Storm cut her off with a small, knowing smile. "Hammer tends to think with his¡­ Well, you know. Like any man."


    Jean gasped, her face turning bright red as her hand flew to her mouth. "Ororo¡­ You didn''t!"


    Storm chuckled softly, shaking her head. "It was necessary, Jean. Every emperor in history has had a woman behind the throne, influencing his decisions for good or bad. I like to think I''ll be able to help the good win out more often than not."


    Her smile became somewhat impish, "And it''s not like it''s a chore¡­ He even made me lose control, and that doesn''t happen often anymore¡­"


    Jean looked at Storm in a mix of fascination and horror. "But¡­ He already has so many women around him. How can you stand that?" Her voice was barely a whisper, as if speaking it aloud would make it even more real.


    Storm laughed, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Oh, that just means he knows what he''s doing," She said with a wink, causing Jean''s face to flush even redder. "Besides, for all his¡­ Well, let''s call them ''manslut'' ways, he''s surprisingly loyal to just a few women."


    Jean shook her head, still looking thoroughly scandalized. "And you''re going to be one of them?"


    Storm hummed, her tone thoughtful. "Maybe. For all that he gathers women around him, he seems genuinely interested in finding ''the one.'' We''ll see what happens. But I need to remain close to him, Jean. To influence our future, if he turned fully to evil..."


    She smiled at Jean, her eyes soft and full of warmth, though there was a trace of sadness there. "I hope you don''t look down on me too much for this, Jean. It''s necessary. And I''m not in any way unhappy. He saved Africa, after all. I owe him more than I can say."


    Gaia had also approved of Storms choice, the environmental impacts Hammer made cleaning up the world as a byproduct of what he did, had made him a champion of Gaia in a way, although not anything official. Democracy didn''t matter one whit to the spirit of Earth. And Storm had to reluctantly admit that if she had to be pick between democracy and all the benefits Hammer had brought, it wouldn''t even be that difficult of a choice.


    Democracy had hardly helped metahumans, the voice of the common man had been inherently uncaring of their issues, for those who knew.


    Jean remained quiet for several minutes, her mind whirling with everything Storm had said. "This is so complicated," She groaned, finally letting out a frustrated sigh. She gave Storm a side hug, leaning into her friend''s warmth. "I would never look down on you, but I don''t think I could make the same choice."


    Storm laughed, her voice light and teasing. "I hope not. I don''t need the competition."


    "Ororo!" Jean cried, her face flushing red once more as she swatted at her friend''s arm.


    They fell into a comfortable silence after that, the wind tugging at their hair as they watched the city below. The quiet was comforting, though the weight of the decisions they both faced hung heavy in the air between them.


    After a while, Storm spoke again, her voice thoughtful. "You know¡­ My position at UNESCO is open right now," She said softly, glancing sideways at Jean.


    Jean bit her lip, looking down at her lap. "I don''t know if I can do that to the Professor," She admitted, her voice small.


    Storm nodded, her eyes distant as she thought over Jean''s words. "How are they all doing, anyway?" She asked after a moment. "I''ve been keeping myself busy lately."


    Jean looked away, her expression tightening. "Logan and Hank have both left¡­" She muttered, her voice barely audible, "Scott is trying to clamp down on everyone else, which is just making it so more of them want to leave, I think Kitty is almost ready to run away¡­ She took the deaths hard¡­"


    Storm sighed softly, her heart heavy. "Not surprising," She admitted quietly.


    She hoped Logan wouldn''t do something stupid, she knew recruiting him for Hammer was a non-starter.


    Jean stared out at the skyline, her thoughts far away. "I don''t know what I''m going to do, Ororo," She said softly, her voice tinged with uncertainty.


    Storm ruffled Jean''s hair gently, her smile warm and reassuring. "Whatever you feel is right," She murmured. "Whether that''s staying, joining me, or going your own way. Only you know the answer."


    Jean closed her eyes for a moment, letting the silence stretch out between them. When she opened them again, she looked out at the city below, her heart heavy with the decision she''d known she needed to make for a while now.


    "I don''t want to stay at the mansion anymore."


    "Okay."


    <hr>


    Same time, Namibia, Africa.


    Hela lounged in the warband''s ruined camp, bathed in the harsh African sun as she meticulously cleaned blood from the intricate designs on one of her black leather boots. The camp was a shattered husk of what it once was - broken tents and smoldering fires were all that remained. She admired the stillness of it, how perfectly silent and dead it was now after her work. The warband had fallen quickly, and Hela had taken her time, enjoying their destruction, though the thrill had been fleeting. The enemies had been... Inadequate. She tilted her head, lost in thought, barely interested in the feeble resistance they''d offered.


    They used child soldiers for Norn''s sake! How ridiculous was that?


    Everyone knew children made better assassins and spies.


    Her eyes flicked up just as a spear whizzed past her, just as she tilted her head nonchalantly, the spear neatly avoiding her by an inch. She didn''t even flinch.


    "Better," She mused, her voice smooth and detached, her lips curling into a faint smile. "Not by much, but better."


    A figure emerged from the treeline, stepping into the decimated camp. He was dressed in animal furs and leathers, the skins of lions and tigers draped over his broad, muscular shoulders. His physique was that of a warrior - solid, honed, and lethal. His eyes, sharp and wild, gleamed with hunger, and his long, dark hair fell in tangled waves over his shoulders. His face was half-hidden beneath a lion''s mane, fashioned into a headdress.


    Hela was almost interested, if only she couldn''t feel how weak the man was, for someone of her stature.


    The man carried a confidence that bordered on arrogance, his every step exuding the energy of a beast in pursuit of its prey. His grin was feral, showing off a row of sharp white teeth. The large hunting knife strapped to his side and the quiver of spears slung across his back seemed merely accessories to his raw physical power.


    "I am Kraven the Hunter," He declared, his voice thick with relish, with some accent she couldn''t identify - as she barely paid attention to the ants that scurried across this planet. "I have come to hunt a god!"


    Hela''s smile deepened, her fingers still absentmindedly wiping at the boot. She eyed him, intrigued by the boldness he displayed. It was still useless, but at least it was amusing.


    Kraven grinned wider, his eyes gleaming. "This camp was a trap for you. And you''ve stepped right into it, Goddess."


    Hela raised an eyebrow, a glint of amusement flashing across her sharp features. She slowly rose from her lounging position, standing tall, her dark armor gleaming under the African sun. Her gaze appraised him, taking in the wildness, the hunger. Her smile became dangerous, her eyes dancing with dark amusement.


    "Think highly of yourself, don''t you?" She said, her voice lilting with mockery. "You''re above this rabble, I''ll give you that. But in this situation¡­" Her grin sharpened, ferocious and predatory. "You''re the prey, and I''m the huntress."


    Kraven let out a booming laugh, stepping forward with confidence. "We shall see!" His voice vibrated with excitement, the thrill of the hunt coursing through him. His hand hovered near his blade, eager to test himself against this formidable creature.


    Suddenly, a swirling orange portal opened just to the side of them, casting warm light across the ravaged camp. Hela didn''t look away from Kraven, but her eyes flickered with interest at the arrival. Out stepped Justin Hammer, followed closely by Domino, who wore her usual unimpressed expression as she surveyed the scene.


    Justin ignored Kraven completely, his focus solely on Hela. "I''m going after the worm behind Apocalypse," He announced, his voice tight with suppressed fury. "After much thought.."


    Domino cleared her throat, murmuring under her breath, "Nagging." The word was just loud enough to elicit an irritated twitch from Justin.


    He shot her a glare before continuing, "After much thought," He said loudly, emphasizing the words, "I''ve decided that backup is not amiss. I figured you might want to get your own pound of flesh, Hela."


    Hela tilted her head, resting her chin in her hand as she considered him. "Maybe later," She replied, her tone dripping with lazy amusement. "Mommy''s busy right now." Her eyes were locked on Kraven, the tension between them crackling with bloodlust.


    Kraven bared his teeth in a wide grin, the wild excitement only growing at the new arrivals. "Get out of the way, Hammer!" He growled, his voice filled with confidence. "This woman is mine!"


    Domino winced, muttering, "Oh, shouldn''t have said it like that..."


    Justin''s expression hardened, and the air around him seemed to pulse with rising power. His anger, already simmering from the recent attacks on his business and reputation, boiled over. He didn''t have time for distractions, not when Sinister was within reach. With a quick motion, a small portal opened over his hand, and the glowing Power Stone slid into his grasp. Energy surged through him, crackling with unimaginable force. Hela straightened, intrigued as she watched the display, her eyes gleaming with interest.


    One moment, Kraven was standing tall, confident in his hunt. The next, Justin was upon him, his hand outstretched. He slammed his glowing hand into Kraven''s chest, and the world seemed to explode.


    A massive shockwave burst from the impact, ripping through the earth and sky alike. Smoke and dust billowed upward as the ground beneath them split open, and when the haze finally cleared, a massive gorge stretched several miles wide in front of them. Kraven was gone, erased from existence in a single, brutal moment.


    Justin''s voice was flat, unyielding. "You''re coming with me. Right now." His body still pulsed with energy as he opened another portal, sliding the Power Stone away.


    Hela stood, her interest piqued, and sauntered over to him. She ran a finger along the edge of his suit, her lips curling into a playful smile. "Hmm, your domains are almost there, little godling," She murmured, her voice like silk. "Grab the stone again, and I believe they will settle¡­"


    Justin''s eyes flicked to her, considering the offer. After a moment, he dismissed it with a wave. "Not important right now." He motioned to the portal. "Kill everything on the other side, except Sinister."


    Hela''s eyes lit up with excitement, her bloodlust palpable in the air. "You do know how to show me a good time," She purred, stepping through the portal without hesitation.


    Domino cast Justin a wary glance, raising an eyebrow. "You sure about this, boss? You''re putting holes in continents right now. Maybe not the best time to go off half-cocked."


    Justin waved her off, his expression set in stone. "We''re going. Now."


    Domino sighed, shaking her head, but she stepped through the portal. "Eileen''s gonna be so pissed at me," She muttered under her breath as she vanished through the swirling light.


    Justin followed them, stepping through the portal into a new world - the Savage Land.


    It appeared Sinister had never actually been in Egypt. He''d been piloting bodies¡­ But he couldn''t hide from Heimdall. And Justin would have him now!


    The sight that greeted them was one of raw, untamed beauty. The Savage Land stretched out before them, a prehistoric paradise locked away from the modern world. Towering, ancient trees loomed overhead, their thick canopies casting deep shadows across the jungle floor. The air was thick with humidity, the scent of damp earth and rich vegetation filling their lungs.


    Massive ferns and lush, green vines twisted around the trunks of the trees, and the sounds of life echoed all around them - the calls of strange, ancient creatures, the rustling of leaves as something enormous moved in the underbrush. In the distance, a towering waterfall cascaded down the side of a rocky cliff, its roar blending with the natural symphony of the jungle. Far off in the distance, the silhouettes of dinosaurs could be seen moving through the dense foliage, their massive forms a reminder of the land''s primal nature.


    It was a land untouched by time, wild and fierce, a place where only the strongest survived. And somewhere within its depths, Sinister waited.


    Justin eyed the giant tower before them that rose up through the foliage, well, let''s start right there¡­


    <hr>


    Twenty minutes later,


    Hela tore through the ranks of the tower''s defenders with gleeful abandon, moving with lethal precision. The creatures that stood in her path, from towering dinosaurs draped in crude armor working as war beasts, to pterodactyl-like men that attacked as warriors, they were all no match for her. Each strike of her conjured weapons brought them down with a sudden, brutal efficiency. Her green ethereal blades shimmered in the bright sun, carving through their ranks and leaving the battlefield littered with fallen warriors and beasts.


    She sidestepped a charging dinosaur, allowing its momentum to carry it past her before sending a necro sword the size of an SUV toward it. The creature collapsed, unmoving, as Hela barely broke stride after skewering the beast. Above, winged creatures dived, their talons outstretched, but she sent them crashing to the ground with a flick of her wrist, leaving their wings shattered and unable to carry them aloft again.


    At this point, the pterodactyl men had all broken before her, running away from the Goddess of Death as she administered her namesake. Only beasts remained, the towers defenses broken in the face of Hela''s gleeful advance.


    Domino, perched on the periphery of the battlefield, took careful shots, her bullets finding their mark with expert precision as she sniped down the fliers. She picked off any who thought they might escape Hela''s wrath, though few managed to get that far. Each shot from Domino''s gun was clean, a single bullet enough to end her targets without unnecessary effort.


    As they reached the base of the tower, Justin looked up at the towering structure. The mix of ancient stonework and modern metal work stretched high into the sky, weathered yet still formidable. Its surface was carved with intricate designs and symbols, not a language he knew.


    Probably whatever counted for a language amongst the natives. He looked down at a dead pterodactyl man with distaste. The Savage Land was a proper name, he''d have to make sure none of them entered the proper world - there were limits to his allowances for what constituted humanity.


    At least the Dinosaurs were interesting. Perhaps he could build a park on some island somewhere¡­


    Justin contemplated the tower. And the absolute annoyance it would be to fight room to room to get through it all, while Sinister plotted his escape.


    "He''ll survive a fall," Justin said coldly, his eyes narrowing. Without waiting for further comment, he summoned the Power Stone again, and as the stone materialized in his hand, his body began to glow with a pulsing, radiant energy. The power coursed through him, filling him with a sense of control and raw potential.


    Hela giggled, her eyes glinting with excitement. "Oooh, you''re going to set your domains if you use it now," She teased, her voice laced with anticipation. "That amount of power... It''s inevitable." She eyed the stone hungrily.


    Domino''s face grew more serious as she glanced between Justin and the tower. "You sure about this, boss?" She asked, her tone cautious. "I know you want him, want to punish him, but is this the choice you''d make normally? To do this... Here, like this, right now?"


    Justin''s glowing eyes turned toward her, his expression calm but resolute. "For too long, I was passive," He said. "I avoided risks, took the careful path, trying to keep everyone appeased just enough to follow along. But it''s time I stopped holding back. It''s time I took what I want."


    How could he rule, if he did not grab power with his own two hands?


    Domino sighed softly but nodded. "As long as you''re sure, boss." A small smirk tugged at her lips. "Just so you know, I''m not about to worship you."


    Justin grinned at that. "I know."


    With a flick of his wrist, Justin unleashed the power of the stone. He swiped his hand through the air, and the energy erupted outward. The bottom third of the tower disintegrated in a flash, the stone and earth in its path obliterated, leaving a massive crater that extended for miles.


    Almost cutting the Savage Lands in half.


    And that was with Justin specifically trying to use the smallest amount of power.


    The tower began to fall, falling sideways as the foundation ceased to exist. Then, with a mighty crash, the ancient structure collapsed into the ground and sent clouds of dust and debris billowing into the air. Hela laughed with unbridled glee, knocking away any debris that came too close, thoroughly enjoying the show.


    Justin portaled the Power Stone away, his glowing body still shining like a star. He dropped to one knee, feeling the weight of the power that surged through him. All around the Savage Land, its inhabitants stopped, their primal instincts alerting them to the shift in power. A new god had been born, and they could feel it rippling through the air, vibrating in their very bones.


    Hela approached him, her steps slow and deliberate, as if savoring the moment. She sniffed the air around Justin, grinning. "Ah," She moaned softly, "That new god smell." Her eyes sparkled with dark humor. "Let''s see... God of Power and Might, delicious. Humanity and civilization¡­ How boring." She smirked, teasing him. "God of Progress and innovation, makes sense I suppose. Domination¡­ Nice. And sex and Lust... Well... Isn''t that interesting." Then she stopped, a brief look of shock on her face, before she composed herself.


    Domino burst out laughing, shaking her head. "Of course." She rolled her eyes, "Sunil owes me soo much money now, he should have known not to bet against me."


    Justin rose to his feet, his newfound strength settling into him like an extension of his being. He felt different, stronger, more connected to the world and its inhabitants. He grinned at Domino. "So, not much has changed then," He said. "I was already a sex god."


    "Pfft, you wish," Domino retorted with a grin.


    Hela studied him for a moment longer, her eyes narrowing slightly in thought. "No war or conqueror domain," She murmured. "A pity. But not half bad, for a pretender." She smirked haughtily, "At least it''s not as pathetic as being a God of Thunder or Mischief."


    "Shots fired," He said amused at what Loki would think, not only about his very minor domain, but about Justin somehow getting such strong ones - due to billions of prayers. He gave Hela a look, "What are you holding back though¡­?"


    Hela pouted, "Must you notice everything." She complained, whacking him with a necrosword, Justin didn''t even feel it. "Many Gods have a dozen lesser domains, not unlike you, they''re usually tied to a higher domain. Like Death¡­" She sighed dramatically, "Sex and Lust, Progress and Innovation, Humanity and Civilization, even Power and Might¡­ You''re a God of Life¡­"


    Justin blinked at that, it seemed he had avoided the healing domain he was loath to accept, yet still qualified as a God of Life. In some ways he supposed it made sense, he was all about progress and uplifting humanity. Hopefully it wouldn''t mean he couldn''t kill, now¡­


    "Domination doesn''t really fit the mold." He murmured in thought.


    Hela smirked, "I agree, you''re not a usual boring God of Life, perhaps you don''t operate quite as such." She got a coy look on her face, "Life and¡­ Death, an interesting pairing, don''t you think?"


    Justin ignored her as he turned back toward the remnants of the tower. He could sense the presence of those within - those who were not fully human. His new powers gave him an awareness of all things human, and within the wreckage, there was one presence that stood out, a human signature twisted and altered but unmistakable. Sinister.


    With a mere gesture, Justin tore a portal open, the raw power of his new godhood allowing him to bend space without the need for the motion of his sling ring. On the other side of the portal, he found Sinister, buried under what was left of his tower, his once meticulous appearance now in ruins.


    Justin stepped through the portal, his divine energy crackling around him, and looked down at Sinister with cold, calculating eyes.


    "Hello there," Justin said, his voice calm and filled with a quiet menace.


    <hr>


    Soon after, Hammerhaven.


    Justin entered the interrogation room, flanked by Hela and Domino. The air was filled with a sort of pressure, an oppressive weight that seemed to press down on everything within the room. In the center, Nathaniel Essex - Sinister - hung suspended against the far wall, his arms and legs spread wide, held in place by Justin''s sheer will. The domination aspect of his newly minted godhood in use, the power shimmered faintly around the villain, keeping him utterly immobilized. Sinister''s eyes darted around in fear, his mouth bound tightly by an unseen force, preventing him from making a sound.


    "Domino," Justin said, his voice flat and cold, "Get Helen."


    Domino nodded, casting a quick, sideways glance at Hela as she pointed two fingers at her own eyes and then back at Hela, a silent warning for the goddess to behave while she was gone. Hela merely raised an amused brow, watching Domino leave before turning her attention back to Sinister. She idly twirled one of her necroswords between her fingers, studying him with casual interest.


    "You''ve managed to inspire great loyalty in your servants," She mused aloud, poking Sinister lightly with the tip of her blade, slowly sinking the tip in, just enough to make a point. "It''s almost¡­ Admirable."


    Justin didn''t answer immediately, his eyes never leaving Sinister''s quivering form. The tension in the room built like a slowly rising tide, and his silence spoke volumes. Only after a moment did he give a slight, almost imperceptible nod in response to Hela''s comment. His focus was not on the Goddess of Death at the moment.


    Hela, undeterred, continued to observe him with a calculating gaze. She cocked her head slightly, her eyes narrowing with curiosity. "You wield impressive power now," She said, her voice almost a purr. "While not on par with a Goddess of Death, of course¡­ Your divinity has granted you the ability to do anything you desire." Her tone was probing, testing the boundaries of his patience.


    Without looking at her, Justin responded, his voice cold and biting. "You''re not a very patient woman, are you?"


    Hela''s laugh was dark and lilting, filling the room with a sound both haunting and beautiful. "I am very patient, Justin. I''ve spent a millennia waiting, plotting. Patience is one of my finest qualities."


    Justin scoffed, finally glancing at her with a sharp glare. "Yet you think my newly elevated status means I''ll be fooled into granting your wishes?"


    Hela''s lips curled into a sly smile, her eyes gleaming with something dangerous. "Your wishes as well, you just don''t realize it yet."


    Justin shook his head, his attention shifting back to Sinister. He flexed his power slightly, and a crack echoed in the room as Sinister''s legs were crushed beneath an invisible force. Sinister''s face twisted in pain, but the legs immediately began to heal themselves, knitting together with astonishing speed - some experiment of his own design, no doubt.


    He would have recognized it if it was Extremis.


    "You''re wrong, Hela," Justin said, his voice low and deliberate. "I know exactly what I want."


    Before Hela could respond, the door swung open, and Domino returned, this time with Helen Cho in tow. Helen immediately dropped to her knees in front of Justin, bowing her head with reverence.


    "Praise be to Hammer," She murmured, her voice trembling with devotion.


    Justin waved her off, his expression indifferent. "None of that. Get to your feet. I want the interrogation serum. We''re going to bring all the pain we can to maximum levels."


    Helen stood quickly, her movements shaky but eager as she made her way to the table where a collection of tools and vials were neatly arranged. Her eyes flicked back to Justin every few moments, as if awaiting further instruction or approval.


    Justin leaned in close to Sinister''s face, his voice dropping to a menacing whisper. "You might think I''m going to ask you questions, that I''ll offer you a chance to make yourself useful, maybe even bargain for something." His presence intensified, the weight of his divine power pressing down on Sinister until it felt like the air itself was squeezing him. "But you''re mistaken. I''m not here for information. I just want you to hurt."


    Sinister''s eyes widened, panic flickering behind them as he tried to struggle against the invisible bonds, but it was futile. He could do nothing but stare into the cold, merciless gaze of Justin Hammer, a newborn God.


    And in no way was he the God of Mercy.


    Helen approached with a syringe in one hand and a scalpel in the other, her expression one of barely contained excitement. As she moved closer, she glanced over at Hela, clearly curious about the Goddess of Death standing so casually nearby. Her eyes darted between Hela and Justin before she hesitated and asked Hela, "Would any children of his be demigods?" Her voice was soft, almost shy, but filled with a deep seated curiosity.


    Justin sighed audibly, his frustration barely concealed as Domino covered her mouth, struggling not to laugh.


    Hela''s amusement grew, a smirk playing on her lips as she regarded Helen with an arched brow. "Most likely," She said in a smooth, almost teasing tone. "I''ve never dealt with this kind of raised divinity in person, but I suppose you''d have to¡­ Yest it to be sure." There was a knowing glint in her eyes as she looked back at Justin.


    Justin pointed at Helen, his tone sharp with authority. "Do not test it," He ordered, his words layered with the weight of his domination aspect. The force of it pushing down, making it harder to resist his words.


    Helen shuddered, clearly feeling the power of his command wash over her. "Yes, sir," She replied quickly, her voice barely above a whisper as she looked away, focusing instead on preparing the serum.


    Hela chuckled under her breath, amused by the dynamic in the room. She paced slowly, occasionally glancing at Sinister with mild interest. "You know," She said idly, "For all the power in this room, it''s interesting to me that you choose to indulge in such¡­ Small things." Her eyes flicked to Justin, a playful challenge in her gaze. "Crushing bones, inflicting pain - it''s so... Mortal. Don''t you think you could be doing more?"


    Justin shot her a dark look. "I''m doing exactly what I want to do, Hela. This is personal." His eyes turned back to Sinister, narrowing as his hand tightened into a fist, the sound of bones crunching faintly filling the room again.


    Sinister tried to scream, but his mouth remained bound, the sound of his agony locked inside his throat. His body writhed as much as the invisible restraints would allow, but there was no escape, no respite from the torment.


    Helen stepped forward, syringe in hand, her movements precise as she prepared to administer the serum. She glanced up at Justin, waiting for his nod before she moved closer to Sinister, carefully injecting the serum into his neck.


    "You''ll feel everything now," Helen murmured to Sinister, her voice almost clinical, detached. Watching in curiosity."No matter how fast you heal, the pain will remain."


    Justin watched as well, his expression cold and unyielding as Sinister''s body tensed, his eyes wide with the realization of what was happening. There was no escape from this. No bargaining. No reasoning.


    And Justin reveled in it.


    As Sinister convulsed, Justin stepped back, his posture relaxed but his eyes gleaming with satisfaction. He turned to Hela, who had been watching the entire ordeal with a mixture of amusement and intrigue.


    "I could do a lot more," Justin said, his voice calm, almost conversational now. "But sometimes¡­ This is what''s needed, something¡­ Simple."


    Hela chuckled softly, twirling her necrosword in her fingers once more. "Oh, I do understand. Pain has its place, after all." She smiled darkly, her eyes glittering with approval. "But do try not to lose yourself in it too much, Justin. After all, a god should aspire to something... Grander.. Personal pain is nothing compared to the pain of a nation, a planet."


    Justin didn''t respond, but his expression remained as cold and resolute as ever. He knew exactly what he was doing. And for now, Sinister''s suffering was just what the doctor ordered.


    He couldn''t let loose on Earth, not yet. Not without declaring war.


    He''d pick his enemies apart, just like Sinister. Wring all the information out of them, after they''d suffered to the point of begging to share it.


    Then¡­


    God-Emperor didn''t sound too bad, now did it?


    <hr>


    A day later, Washington D.C.


    The Oval Office was a hive of tension. President Ellis sat at his desk, hands clenched into tight fists as he surveyed the room. Cabinet secretaries, generals, and Alexander Pierce, the head of SHIELD, stood or sat around him, all locked in a heated argument. The atmosphere was thick with frustration, anger, and simmering fear.


    "Hammer''s going too far," One of the generals blustered, his face flushed with indignation. "This isn''t how things should work! He''s acting like he''s in charge of the country!"


    Ellis leaned back in his chair, bitterness etched into every line of his face. "And what exactly do you suggest we do about it?" He asked, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "Taken a look at Europe lately, General?" His eyes gleamed with a dark sort of humor. "Did you see what happened to their leaders when they tried to stand up to him? They''re all running for cover while Hammer picks them off one by one." He made a gesture of disgust, "Hell, he isn''t even doing it himself, the people are doing it for him!"


    The general swallowed, clearly unsettled, but before he could respond, Pierce stepped forward, his expression cool and measured.


    "Antagonism serves no one," Pierce said, his voice calm, though there was a sharp edge to it. "Hammer has been¡­ Good to this country, for the most part." He reminded them, his eyes sweeping across the room.


    That set off a flurry of protests from several cabinet secretaries. They spoke over one another, voices rising in indignation as they laid out their grievances against Justin Hammer. He''d undermined the government, cut them out of deals, and left Washington looking like an afterthought. Big business, the media, the public - all eyes were on Hammer Industries now, not the White House.


    "He''s destabilized everything!" One cabinet secretary shouted. "The government''s barely holding on to its authority! The man''s practically built a state within a state!"


    "The economy is thrumming, sure," Another one said, "But we''re losing control! The people aren''t looking to us for answers anymore. They''re looking to him!"


    Ellis slammed his hands down on the desk, silencing the room in an instant. He glared at his cabinet, frustration and weariness etched into his features. His presidency had been a trial of constant crisis, and this - dealing with Hammer - was proving to be the most exasperating of all.


    "Enough!" He barked. They all fell silent. Ellis turned his gaze to Pierce, narrowing his eyes. "Tell me SHIELD has a way to stop him from going too far. I''d rather not be deposed the way the Slovakian prime minister was." The sarcasm in his voice barely masked the underlying fear. Hammer''s power was growing, and Ellis could feel the ground beneath his feet slipping away.


    Pierce, ever the calm voice amongst braying donkeys, remained composed, his expression betraying nothing. "Of course, we do, Mr. President. SHIELD has contingencies for every situation. You can always count on SHIELD." His words dripped with confidence, but there was a quiet intensity in his gaze, as if daring anyone to question SHIELD''s capabilities.


    Ellis, though, wasn''t entirely convinced. He looked at Pierce with skepticism, his lips pressing into a tight line. Still, for the moment, he chose not to push further. Pierce was one of the few people he had left to rely on, and alienating him now would be disastrous.


    The Vice President, sitting quietly through most of the exchange, finally spoke up, his tone mild but laced with sarcasm. "Hammer made himself the sole arbiter of the deal with Asgard. Surely, we aren''t just letting that stand, are we?"


    Pierce grimaced, glancing at Ellis for permission to address the issue. Ellis waved his hand impatiently, urging him to continue.


    "My Vice President," Pierce began, his voice taking on a measured tone, "I understand, and I agree, the lack of respect inherent in the way he bulldozed us all at the summit was¡­ infuriating. But in the end, America - and SHIELD - will be the biggest recipients of this windfall."


    The Vice President raised an eyebrow. "You mean outside of Hammer Industries, of course."


    Pierce''s lips tightened, and he forced himself to nod. "Yes, outside of Hammer Industries. But what choice did we have? Did you want to demand Asgard break their word and deal with us instead?"


    Ellis rubbed his temples, his frustration mounting. "This is all pointless. There''s no use crying over spilled milk," He muttered, his voice low and bitter. "We lost that battle. Now give me strategies going forward. How can we turn this ship around?"


    Silence blanketed the Oval Office as the room''s occupants exchanged uncertain glances. For all their bravado, no one had a clear answer.


    The tension was broken when the door to the Oval Office swung open. A military aide rushed in, his face pale, a dispatch clutched tightly in his hand. He quickly crossed the room and handed the paper to the Secretary of Defense. As the secretary read the message, his face blanched visibly, all the color draining from his skin.


    Ellis''s heart sank at the sight. He''d come to recognize that look - the look of someone about to deliver yet another catastrophe. His eyes closed for a moment as if bracing himself. "What''s wrong now?" He demanded, his voice a mix of exhaustion and irritation.


    They were still dealing with part of the US military going rogue for God''s sake! The press and Congress both were cutting him to ribbons! What could possibly have happened now?


    The Secretary of Defense swallowed hard before speaking, his voice solemn and heavy. "China has invaded Taiwan."


    Of course they have¡­ Ellis thought, wondering briefly if being President was worth it anymore.


    For a moment, the Oval Office was utterly silent. The words hung in the air like a bomb waiting to go off.


    Then, all at once, chaos erupted. Cabinet secretaries shouted over one another, generals barked orders and questions, and the once-organized room devolved into utter pandemonium.


    Ellis just looked at Pierce, and the abject shock on his face did not fill him with confidence.


    Has SHIELD even gotten anything right in the past two years? He wondered, even as he prepared himself for the worst.


    Worst of all, his first thought?


    Call Justin Hammer.


    He grimaced.


    We''ve lost already.


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven,


    Justin sat in the war room of his Hammerhaven headquarters, surrounded by the quiet hum of technology and the glowing screens that covered every inch of the walls. Before him sat most of his inner circle - Yelena, Domino, Phantazia, and Sunil. They each bore the weight of the last twenty four hours in their expressions, a mix of exhaustion and calculated determination. It had been a brutal day.


    Nail, his AI, floated silently in the background, projecting a detailed hologram of the damage report. The final death toll stood at over 1,200. His factories, though equipped with world-class security, had been no match for a coordinated strike from power-armored soldiers. Entire facilities reduced to rubble, civilians caught in the crossfire, their bodies crushed beneath debris. The eerie glow of the report''s statistics seemed to make the air heavier.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, feeling the constant hum of whispers in the back of his mind - a side effect of his recent ascent to divinity. Prayers. He could hear them all, faint and persistent, from people across the globe. An aspect of his domain of Humanity, he was fairly certain.


    Certainly Hela and Thor and those like it did not get prayers like this.


    And those he knew personally? They were deafening by comparison. Helen Cho, in particular, was like a constant murmur in his ear, always offering praise or praying for his approval. He could ignore it if he focused hard enough, but it was still there, like a buzzing fly he couldn''t swat away.


    He shook his head to clear his thoughts, focusing on the present. "So¡­ It was the Mandarin?" He asked, his tone cold, cutting through the room like a blade.


    Sunil was the first to speak. "In all likelihood, yes. We don''t have concrete proof, but based on Osborn''s last known location and his movements, it points to the Mandarin being behind this."


    Yelena leaned forward, her elbows resting on the table, her gaze sharp. "Of all your enemies, he''s the one most likely to sow chaos like this. The timing, the precision, the scale - it fits his MO. With China now attacking Taiwan and creating an international crisis, it lines up too perfectly. He''s trying to destabilize both you and the U.S."


    Phantazia, catching Yelena''s glance, took over seamlessly. "It''s all designed to hit at the heart of your perceived invincibility, sir. You''ve built yourself as the one who can protect Earth, and now that narrative is being ripped apart. You''re seen as tied to America, and now both you and America look weak if you don''t act. But if you do act, especially in the wrong way, I''m certain that''s exactly what the Mandarin wants."


    Justin remained silent for a moment, his fingers steepled as he considered the implications. The Mandarin. A relic of an older era. A man who, while not necessarily a powerhouse compared to what Justin had become, was a master of manipulation, strategy, and chaos. The Mandarin had exposed Justin''s greatest weakness - his vast reach. He was everywhere, but being everywhere meant being stretched too thin to protect everything.


    The destruction of his factories, the loss of life - it wasn''t just a blow to his company; it was a direct hit to his reputation. He had built himself up as the guardian of Earth, the man who could secure its future. And now, with these attacks, that very foundation was cracking. People would talk. The world would see the cracks in his armor, and they would doubt him. His enemies would grow bolder.


    He could feel the rage bubbling beneath his cool exterior. The Mandarin was small in terms of personal power - at least, in comparison to Justin''s newfound divinity - but that didn''t mean he wasn''t dangerous. The fact that Nail couldn''t even find him or his web of assassins and terrorists, only added to the problem. The man was a ghost, striking from the shadows, picking his targets with surgical precision.


    "He''s exposed a weakness," Justin said, finally breaking the silence. "I can''t protect everything. Not if I''m spread this thin." It was reality, Hammer industries were global, they were everywhere.


    Yelena and the others exchanged glances, knowing full well that Justin''s next decision would shape the course of their future. War with China? Retaliation against a phantom enemy? Neither were ideal outcomes, but something had to be done.


    "If I allow him to keep taking pot shots at me," Justin continued, his voice low and dark, "It''ll destroy my credibility. The world''s already watching. I''m supposed to be the one who can protect Earth. If I can''t even protect my own people¡­"


    His words trailed off, leaving an unspoken question hanging in the air. How far would he go to preserve his empire?


    Justin leaned back, closing his eyes briefly as he let the weight of the decision settle on his shoulders. He opened them again, and when he spoke, there was a finality to his words.


    "If he wants war, let him have it."


    His inner circle straightened, their expressions sharpening as they absorbed the gravity of his statement.


    "We''re in the endgame now," Justin said, his voice cold and resolved. "Let chaos reign. When the dust settles, I''ll come out on top."


    The room fell into a deep, tense silence. They knew what was coming.


    War.


    <hr>

 War, War never changes.

    <hr>


    November, 2009, India.


    General Amarjit Singh paced back and forth in the command post, his normally composed demeanor shattered by the chaos outside. The small concrete bunker they were holed up in shook with every artillery blast, dust and plaster falling in thin streams from the ceiling, coating everything in a fine white powder. The sound of explosions and gunfire echoed through the air, mixed with the incessant crackle of the radios that surrounded him. His men, huddled over their stations, frantically relayed messages, shouting orders, and coordinating what little reinforcements they could muster.


    "Where are my reports?!" General Singh roared, his voice barely cutting through the din. He slammed his fist on the table, scattering maps and notes. "I want an update on every single unit on the front line! Now!"


    His staff scrambled, trying to organize the chaos into something resembling useful intelligence. Outside, the unmistakable sound of machine gun fire rattled on, accompanied by the deep, rhythmic booms of Chinese artillery. The general could hear the screams of mortar shells flying through the air, each one a reminder of the inevitable destruction raining down on their position.


    In his other hand, General Singh clutched a satellite phone, his knuckles white from gripping it too hard. His voice was strained as he shouted into the receiver, the sound of desperation seeping into his usual air of command.


    "Where is the support you promised me, Major Rao?!" He barked at the logistics officer back at headquarters, spitting the words as though each one burned on the way out. "We are being torn apart here! My line is being overrun! If we don''t get reinforcements in the next hour, we''ll be pushed back to the base of the mountains!"


    On the other end of the line, Major Santosh Rao''s voice crackled back, grim and apologetic. "Sir, we''re doing the best we can, the Americans are already responding to the situation in Taiwan. They''ve acknowledged our call for assistance against this unwarranted aggression, but they don''t have enough forces nearby to assist immediately. We''re stretched thin with battles at every point of the border and beyond."


    Somehow, the Chinese had managed to get Tens of thousands of men behind the lines, and together with the pounding of the Chinese Air Force against Indian military bases, they were preventing reinforcements from easily accessing the front.  Singh knew all this, but he still had to try, for his soldiers. They were all dead if they didn''t receive reinforcements now.


    General Singh''s face twisted into a mask of barely controlled fury at what was happening, his jaw clenching as he forced himself not to smash the phone against the wall. "Stretched thin?" He growled, his voice low and venomous. "The Chinese are throwing men away for every inch of ground, here! They''re pouring over the pass like a damned flood! We can''t hold like this!" His voice rose as another explosion rocked the building, sending more debris raining down onto the general''s already dust-covered uniform.


    "We''re doing what we can, General," Major Rao replied, the weight of the situation heavy in his tone. "Reserves are being called up, and the nearest garrison is en route even through the bombing. You just have to hold for a little longer."


    General Singh sank into his chair, defeated for a moment, the sounds of war pounding relentlessly outside. He looked over at his men, who were frantically working their own lines, shouting into headsets, calling for support, trying to coordinate an increasingly chaotic battlefield. They all looked as exhausted as he felt.


    "We can''t hold..." Singh muttered under his breath, though the phone caught it. "There''s too many of them, for every soldier we kill, there''s ten more flooding over our lines."


    There was silence on the other end of the line for a brief moment before Major Rao spoke again, his voice thick with regret. "We weren''t prepared for this, General. No one was. But do what you can. They won''t get away with this. We will push them back."


    Small comfort to all the dead, Singh thought bitterly.


    The general let out a harsh, bitter laugh in the end. "Push them back?" His eyes were wild with frustration. "Just nuke the bastards. Let them feel what it means to cross India!"


    The suggestion wasn''t truly serious - more an expression of his exhaustion and frustration than anything else. But the desperation was real. How had it come to this? China was risking everything. Was it madness? A Skrull infiltration? None of it made any sense.


    They had to know they couldn''t win this! India and the international community would fight back! Even with the UN dead, no one would accept China conquering India.


    "We can''t," Major Rao''s voice cut through his thoughts, hard and definitive. "No one can."


    Singh frowned, his spine straightening, alarm bells ringing in his head. He barked into the phone, "What the hell do you mean, ''no one can''?"


    On the other end, Major Rao paused, the sound of rustling papers filtering through the speaker. When he finally spoke again, his tone was far more subdued, almost disbelieving. "Justin Hammer sent a video to all world leaders right after the attack on Taiwan. He promised total annihilation to any nation that deployed nuclear weapons in the coming conflicts."


    Singh scoffed loudly, momentarily forgetting the chaos outside. "Hammer? He''s just a businessman, no matter how powerful! Sure, he can throw his weight around against some alien freaks, but does he really think he can make demands like that?"


    That was patently absurd. There were always allowances made for big corporations, that''s how capitalism worked nowadays, but did the man really think he could just make commands like that to the world? To world powers even?


    The silence on the other end stretched out, making Singh feel the gravity of what had just been said. Finally, Major Rao responded, his voice weak, almost reluctant. "In the video, he showed a simulation... Of what he could do with that glowing stone he used against the invaders. If he''s not bluffing... General, he could wipe out India or China at will, he''s worse than a nuclear deterrent, on his own!"


    General Singh gaped, momentarily speechless. He shook his head, refusing to believe it. "That''s a bluff!" He shouted into the phone. "No man is that powerful!"


    "Maybe," Major Rao conceded quietly, sounding like he didn''t believe it. "But no one''s willing to be the first to call it, not even China. Good luck, General. Just hold. Reinforcements are on the way. I''ve got other fronts to handle."


    The line went dead, and for a moment, General Singh just sat there, the phone still clutched in his hand. He could hear the chaos around him - men shouting, artillery roaring, and the terrifying, ever-present hum of battle closing in - but his mind was elsewhere, racing through the implications of what he''d just learned.


    Finally, he snapped back to the present, gesturing toward one of his aides. "How long until they break through?" He asked, his voice low, almost resigned.


    The aide, a young officer with a pale face and wide, fearful eyes, looked up from his station. "Less than half an hour is likely, sir," He reported, his voice trembling slightly. "Maybe less if the Chinese Air Force returns to this front for another bombing run."


    General Singh exhaled slowly, a grim smile forming on his face as he reached for the gun holstered at his side. "Men," He said, standing up and addressing the room, his voice regaining its steel. "It''s been a pleasure commanding you. I won''t order any of you to stand with me, but I''m getting out there, and I''m making the bastards pay with blood for every inch of Indian soil they take."


    There was no hesitation. No one spoke, but the look on every face told him that they would follow him, no matter the odds. There was no chance of survival, but they would not go down without a fight. The general adjusted his helmet, feeling the weight of his decisions bear down on him as he left the bunker.


    It made him proud that every man under his command followed him out. His thoughts went briefly to his wife and kids, as he lamented leaving them, not being able to see his kids grow up.


    Just then, a strange sound filled the air - a distant whooshing sound, like something cutting through the sky. The men looked up instinctively, expecting another barrage of Chinese bombs or artillery to fall on them. But instead, they saw hundreds of black and silver shapes descending from the sky - hundreds of power armors flying in formation, blotting out the sun.


    One of the armors broke from formation, landing in a textbook superhero stance in front of the bunker. The armor''s eyes gleamed in the dim light as it stood up, turning to face General Singh with machine-like precision.


    "General," The drone intoned, its voice modulated but clear, "Hammer Industries is here to assist. The Iron Legion will push the enemy back. Please ensure your men do not engage; our targeting systems will interpret the fire as enemy action."


    The general stared in disbelief as the drone took off into the air once again, joining the swarm of power armors heading directly toward the advancing Chinese forces. For a moment, he could do nothing but gape.


    "Maybe..." He muttered, shaking his head as the reality set in. "Maybe Hammer really can do more than I thought..."


    Then, with renewed energy, he spun on his heel, roaring at his staff. "What are you looking at, you layabouts?! Back inside! Get on the line and spread the news! I don''t want our boys getting chewed up by those things!"


    As he rushed back inside, General Amarjit Singh felt something he hadn''t felt in hours - hope. China''s attack had caught them all off guard, but now, there was someone responding. And if anyone could push back the tide, it was the man who seemed to be capable of anything: Justin Hammer.


    He sent a little prayer to the man, thanking him for saving them where his government couldn''t, praying it would be enough.


    He wouldn''t lose all his men today after all.


    <hr>


    Same time, Cairo.


    Justin stood on the wall of his Cairo compound, his gaze fixed on the sprawling flying city in front of him. It was a scene of organized chaos, a testament to the relentless efficiency of Hammer Industries. The city''s rebuilding had commenced at a breakneck pace, and all around him, he could see the evidence of his vision taking shape.


    Construction workers swarmed over half-built structures like ants over a sugar trail. Autonomous drones and vehicles cleared the last remnants of rubble, their sleek forms moving with mechanical precision. Human workers followed in their wake, meticulously setting to work on the foundation, redoing electrical systems and plumbing as they went.


    Not only redoing, but improving things. Cairo would be unrecognizable, but a truly modern city, truly his. Although it was a bit annoying that his entire team and his AI had teamed up and vetoed him renaming the city to something more¡­ Hammer.


    He could have forced the issue, but if he did that for every minor thing, he''d eventually erode their loyalty, so best to leave it be.


    Well, at least he still had Hammerhaven, so it wasn''t too bad¡­


    From where he stood, Justin could see entire blocks of the floating city transforming. Buildings sprouted from the ground in a matter of hours, the shattered remnants of old Cairo giving way to gleaming new structures, each more advanced than the last. It was the future he had promised, a future built not just on ambition but on raw, untapped potential. And yet, even as he watched his city being rebuilt at an astonishing pace, Justin''s mind was elsewhere.


    He could feel it if he tried - the prayers. It was always there, humming softly in the back of his consciousness. A constant buzz of millions of voices, some quiet, others desperate, calling out to him for everything from salvation to trivial desires. Hundreds of millions of prayers, maybe more. He wasn''t even sure how he knew that; it was just instinctual now. Sorting through them, picking out one voice among the masses, was nearly impossible unless it was someone he knew. Those he had personal connections with had a unique resonance - an echo, of sorts - one that he could pick out almost immediately.


    Hela hadn''t been much help in understanding this new facet of his divinity. She had explained that Asgardians hadn''t relied on prayer in the way other gods might for a very long time. Their domains and godlike status had been set millennia ago, passed down hereditarily from parent to child. Lack of prayers didn''t weaken them; they existed as gods purely by virtue of their lineage and mythos, all of it already set in stone to some extent.


    Thousands upon thousands of years ago, the first Kings and Queens of Asgard, had become gods in truth, and spread it amongst their people to an extent. Back then prayers had assisted, but eventually, after a millenia, the divinity had settled. Now, even if no one believed in Asgard ever again, they would never grow weaker from that lack of faith.


    That explained why Odin and the likes of Thor and Tyr, were so powerful, coming from the original lines of true gods, remaining as such, while the average Asgardian wasn''t much more than an enhanced human by comparison, even if they still held that spark of divinity that had originally been spread.


    For Justin, it would be different he assumed, at least for now. He still needed the prayers, though they were more of a tool than a crutch. In time, he wouldn''t require them either. But for now, they had an undeniable strengthening effect. He knew that if people began praying to the Asgardians again in large enough numbers, they too would grow stronger, though none of them had ever truly needed it.


    The effect still existed for them, it just couldn''t bring them below their baseline. But it could heighten them. Another reason, Hela had explained, why her wish for conquest only made sense. In her belief, they needed worshippers again, and the best way to achieve that was by the sword. Then Asgardians would rule the universe.


    That last part he''d intuited from what she was saying, she hadn''t actually said that part out loud, correctly assuming this was one of the reasons Justin was loath to risk empowering her in any way.


    His eyes scanned over the city, taking in the steady pulse of progress, the hum of industry. His city. He could feel his own power radiating outward, suffusing everything beneath him. It was why he was here - standing on this wall, lost in thought. It was a feeling unlike anything he had ever known, and it gnawed at the edges of his consciousness, reminding him of what he had become.


    Yesterday, he had witnessed something that still took his breath away. A stretch of one of Cairo''s busiest streets had been leveled, demolished down to its very foundation. But within hours, the entire area had been rebuilt. Buildings had risen, the electrical grid, sewer, and plumbing systems had been replaced, all in a single day. One day.


    His divinity spread out over the city, his domain¡­ One day!


    Granted, he had an army of drones, autonomous vehicles, and highly skilled workers to assist, but even by his standards, the speed of the rebuilding was staggering. The power he now commanded - whether it was Progress, Innovation, Humanity, or Civilization, or some combination of all of them - was manifesting in ways he hadn''t anticipated. And it thrilled him.


    His hands gripped the wall tightly as he contemplated the implications. If he could accomplish this with just one city, what would happen when the entire planet was under his control? Would his domains spread, suffusing every corner of the globe with his influence? Would the world transform as rapidly as Cairo had?


    Justin had initially scoffed at some of his domains, thinking they were superfluous. Power and Might were all well and good, but Civilization? And Progress? He had considered them unnecessary additions - until now. Now, he could see the true extent of what he had inherited. The potential was limitless, and it made him dangerous in ways he hadn''t fully appreciated before.


    He felt a small grin tugging at the corners of his lips. The world had no idea what was coming.


    No¡­ The universe had no idea how powerful this planet was about to become under his aegis. Thanos would come one day, and break himself on Fortress Earth¡­


    As he stood there, absorbed in his thoughts, he became aware of a familiar presence approaching. He could sense Yelena long before she made it up the wall, her energy familiar and teasing. She was doing it again - praying to him for the most ridiculous things, just to catch his attention. It was a game of hers lately, and while it should have annoyed him, it only served to make him smirk in amusement.


    When Yelena finally reached him, dressed in a sinfully tight outfit that was no doubt intended to provoke, Justin didn''t turn to face her immediately. His gaze remained fixed on the city below, though his eyes flicked sideways to catch her exaggerated pout.


    "No," He said dryly, "I''m not going to give you Russia." A familiar argument the last few days, when word domination became less of a future plan, and more of a goal within sight.


    Yelena leaned against the wall beside him, her expression exaggerated in mock disappointment. "Not even if I do that thing you like?" She teased, her voice lilting as she gave him an exaggerated puppy-dog look.


    Justin snorted, turning to face her fully with a look of bemusement. "Literally a sex god here. I can feel that you enjoy it even more than I do." His tone was sardonic, though there was an undercurrent of humor there.


    It wasn''t a domain he had particularly wanted, as the gods who held such things seemed gods of excess and vices more than anything, something he would not want to fall into, but it had become a part of him regardless. Rumors about his¡­ Proclivities¡­ Had circulated long enough for it to set apparently, helped along by Yelena and Helen Cho spreading gossip - and the infamous sex tape that had gone viral, it had been almost inevitable. The mythos of Justin Hammer had grown, and with it, his domains.


    Perhaps the large number of domains came down to the fact that several billion people in different parts of the world all had wildly different ideas about him¡­


    Being a god of Sex and Lust should have been fantastic, and in some ways, it certainly was. He had tested that aspect of his divinity quite thoroughly. But it wasn''t without its drawbacks. Just like the constant stream of prayers, he could now sense whenever anyone within a wide radius engaged in any form of sexual activity - that included masturbation. It was a sensory overload he was still working to push into the background, just like the prayers.


    He really didn''t need to know that much about the people around him. Especially not Cho. Who apparently was worse, by herself, then she was with a partner.


    Some things he can''t unsee.


    Yelena''s smirk widened as she joined him at the wall, her arms crossed in a display of casual confidence. "Can you feel my devotion then, my god?" She teased, her tone playful, though the glint in her eyes was all mischief.


    Justin flicked her on the nose, making her scrunch up her face in an adorably exaggerated reaction. "None of that," He said, his tone firm but not unkind. "My name, or sir, will suffice."


    "Yes, sir," Yelena responded smartly, though the smirk didn''t leave her lips. She had always enjoyed calling him ''sir'' and he knew it.


    "You''re taking after Domino too much," He warned lightly, his lips quirking in amusement. His ascension to godhood had put his inner circle into something of a frenzy. They had all tried, in their own ways, to probe, test, and see if he had changed.


    Especially Domino. That woman had practically made it her mission to figure out if he was any different now, constantly pushing at the boundaries to see where they were.


    He was fairly certain he hadn''t changed much - at least not yet. And that made sense. His ascension had been built on the foundations of who he already was, on the beliefs and tendencies he already possessed even if seen by billions of others. His divinity had merely amplified those aspects of him. He was still Justin Hammer, just more.


    And well¡­ What was better than Justin Hammer? More of Justin Hammer of course.


    "I assume, since you''re here, she''s ready to begin?" He asked, his thoughts shifting back to the task at hand. He turned away from the city and focused fully on Yelena now, his expression sharpening.


    Yelena nodded, her face losing some of its playful edge as she grew serious. "She''s ready. We''ve gone through the interrogation fully, concluding with a session from Domino."


    Justin hummed softly, considering the information. Domino''s involvement was something he''d personally requested - her methods, while unorthodox, were often highly effective due to her luck. He turned, stepping away from the wall as he prepared to face what was next. "Let''s see what''s in Sinister''s head then, shall we? Lead me to Miss Frost."


    Yelena nodded again, and together, they walked away from the wall, leaving the city behind as they descended into the heart of the compound.


    <hr>


    A few minutes later, Cairo.


    Justin and Yelena made their way down the hallways of his compound, heading toward the reinforced holding cells where Nathaniel Essex - better known as Sinister - was waiting, having been moved here from Hammerhaven.


    Waiting for them outside Sinister''s holding cell was Emma Frost, who was attempting to maintain her usual aura of regal poise despite the strain of the past few days. It wasn''t easy to make someone like Emma Frost look out of sorts, but the recent days of interrogation - however soft they had been - had taken their toll. Her clothes were still impeccable, a tailored white outfit that hugged her figure, but her once-lustrous hair lacked its usual shine, and there was a slight tightness around her eyes. Small imperfections, but enough for Justin to notice.


    Emma Frost had come to him with a deal, and Justin had been all too happy to accept. Frost Industries was now officially a subsidiary of Hammer Industries. While her weapons division had proven to be competent - her power armor models were a step up from the goblin armors at least - they still fell short of what Justin and Tony Stark could produce.


    There had been no competition there. But Frost Industries wasn''t valuable to him for its weapons - it was its grip on the public transportation sector across Europe, the Balkans, and even parts of the Middle East that made it worth folding into his empire. It gave Justin the foothold he needed to dominate yet another industry on a global scale.


    Now, she stood before him, trying to keep that familiar cold air of superiority intact. How cute.


    At least her information on the Hellfire club that she had previously held back was useful. He''d have to do something there soon¡­ Shaw was kept happy and fat so far, by the many business deals he kept making with Hellfire club members, but it wouldn''t last forever. And Shaw more than anyone, was able to coax Selene Gallio to act.


    If he didn''t have two situations to deal with already, he would have moved on that one. But for now, the Hellfire Club would have to sit.


    "Emma, you look radiant as always," Justin said with a pleasant smile, his voice dripping with just the right amount of smugness to let her know he wasn''t fooled by her attempts to appear unruffled.


    Emma didn''t return the smile. Instead, she sniffed lightly, turning her head away from him in a haughty display of indifference. But Justin didn''t miss the signs. Her hair wasn''t as perfectly coiffed, and there was a slight dullness to her skin. She was trying to keep up appearances, but she hadn''t had time nor access to put herself back to her best yet.


    He clicked his tongue in mock disappointment as he stepped closer, his eyes never leaving her face. Without warning, he let his aura of domination unfurl, not with any real intent but as a reminder of the power he held. The effect was immediate - Emma stiffened, her body freezing as if she had been caught in the gaze of a predator. She was someone who prided herself on control, and Justin could see the tension rippling through her as he moved even closer, her control escaping her in front of a true power.


    Reaching out, he gently placed his hand on her chin, turning her face to look directly at him. "Now, that''s not how we respond to the boss, is it?" His voice remained pleasant, but there was an unmistakable edge beneath the words, a hint of a threat wrapped in velvet.


    For a moment, Emma''s expression flickered. She looked like she was struggling with something, perhaps her pride, before she finally lowered her head slightly, bowing in submission. "¡­Nice to see you as well, sir," She managed to get out, her voice tight with barely concealed resentment.


    "Now was that so hard?" Justin murmured, releasing her chin and pulling back. The pressure of his aura vanished as quickly as it had come. "You came to me for a reason, Emma - my power. Don''t start getting shy about your position now when you''re finally on the ground floor of a global power."


    Emma remained silent for a moment, her body language still rigid, but when she looked back up at him, the resentment in her eyes had faded somewhat. There was still some defiance there, of course, but not nearly as much as he might have expected. She had chosen this, after all - chosen to align herself with him without needing any significant prompting. It was that ambition, that cold, calculated desire for power, that had made her approach him in the first place.


    "I am here to be useful, sir," She said after a long pause, her voice more composed now.


    Justin hummed in response, eyeing her with a mixture of amusement and satisfaction. He could work with this.


    "Sir, Sinister is prepped and ready," Yelena said from behind him, her voice a sharp reminder of the task at hand. Her eyes flicked to Emma with a superior glance, clearly unimpressed by the White Queen of the Hellfire Club.


    Justin raised a hand, stopping her. "I want to try something first," He said, his tone taking on a curious edge. He turned to Emma, his eyes gleaming with something close to challenge. "Try to break into my mind." With a thought, he set his implant on passive, removing the normal obstacle.


    Yelena''s head snapped toward him, her expression immediately hardening into one of disapproval. "You''re joking, right?" Her voice was sharp with incredulity, though she made no move to stop him, her hand hovering over her weapons just in case.


    But Justin wasn''t joking. His newfound godhood had left him curious, wondering if someone with Emma''s level of telepathic power could even scratch the surface of his mind now. He had developed faster regeneration, stronger mental defenses, and his control over his own abilities had only grown. Even if she did manage to slip through, his powers would protect him from any lasting damage.


    If she was stupid enough to try anything, which he doubted.


    Emma, for her part, looked visibly uncomfortable with the request. Her eyes flicked to Yelena, then back to Justin, before she swallowed visibly, her poise slipping just slightly. "I''d¡­ Prefer not to," She said, her voice chilly and still carrying that regal edge, but it didn''t fully mask her apprehension. She was used to being the one in control, the one who could assert her dominance through sheer willpower and mental prowess. Now, she stood before someone who might be beyond her reach, and that uncertainty was clearly unsettling.


    She was also obviously worried about any punishment should she succeed and anything happened. Yelena was hardly making it difficult to see that she''d kill her for one wrong move.


    Justin''s smile didn''t falter. "It''s an order," He said, his tone mild but the authority behind it unmistakable.


    The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    For a moment, Emma''s expression flickered again. She looked like she would rather be anywhere else in the world, but after a long, tense pause, she nodded reluctantly, her gaze focusing on his. The tension between them crackled as she concentrated, her eyes narrowing as she attempted to penetrate his mind.


    For the first minute, nothing happened. Then, without warning, Emma winced, a hand coming up to rest on her forehead. She looked away, her eyes momentarily closing as if in pain. "I can''t," She admitted, her voice strained. "It''s like¡­ There''s a chasm between us. One I can''t cross."


    Justin''s implant buzzed back to life as he turned it on with a thought. Nail''s voice came through almost immediately, whispering that based on everything known about Emma Frost - her powers, her mannerisms, vocal tone, facial tics - she was telling the truth.


    Pleased with the result, Justin smiled. "After you then, my lady," He said, his voice cheerful as he gestured toward Sinister''s cell.


    Emma composed herself once more, straightening her posture and smoothing her expression as she led the way into the holding cell. Inside, the room was built state-of-the-art, every inch of it designed to hold anything - and anyone. Sinister was strapped down in the center of the room, his body locked into position by a complex array of restraints. His eyes were wide, his face contorted in pain as the specialized version of Extremis coursed through him, intensifying his suffering.


    He could do nothing but blink and scream.


    Emma ignored the screaming entirely, her heels clicking sharply on the floor as she approached him. She placed a single fingertip on his forehead, her focus intense as she began to probe his mind.


    "The pain is not making this easier," She commented coolly, her voice cutting through Sinister''s shrieks.


    Justin shrugged, leaning casually against the wall, his eyes gleaming with a dark satisfaction. "Can''t turn it off," He said with a nonchalant tone, though the smirk tugging at his lips made it clear he wasn''t in any hurry to ease Sinister''s suffering.


    He should consider himself lucky that Justin hadn''t begun to get creative yet. He''d lost him Hope¡­


    Sinister would live for a very long time¡­ He might even outlive every other human being out there, all of it in immense pain.


    Emma shot him a glance over her shoulder, her expression one of mild annoyance. "Can''t or won''t?"


    Justin''s smile widened, but he didn''t bother answering. The question wasn''t worth responding to.


    Emma grumbled something under her breath, something that didn''t sound quite as ladylike as her usual demeanor, before turning her attention fully back to Sinister. "He has defenses, it seems," She murmured, her brow furrowing in concentration. "But the pain has eroded them. I can get through, even if his muddled thoughts will make it take longer to parse anything useful."


    And so, the secrets locked inside Nathaniel Essex''s twisted mind began to unravel.


    To Justin''s pleasure. It seemed it was a process that was quite painful.


    Or perhaps Emma was fishing for brownie points.


    Either way, he was very pleased.


    <hr>


    Later that night, Cairo.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, the soft hum of Cairo''s war room surrounding him. The dark, sleek table in front of him gleamed under the recessed lighting, and the walls were alive with large holographic displays flashing status reports from around the globe.


    Yelena sat at his side, calm and composed, though the slight narrowing of her eyes betrayed her frustration at the day''s developments. Emma Frost, however, was anything but calm. She sat stiffly across from Justin, clearly doing her best to project her usual icy composure. Still, her fingers twitched occasionally against her immaculate white outfit, and she kept stealing cautious glances at the surrounding screens. The subtle tension in her posture revealed her uncertainty, and it was clear she was carefully walking a line, unsure of how far she could push in her new position.


    Justin tapped his fingers against the edge of the table, a small smirk playing on his lips as he observed Emma. Her discomfort amused him, and he had no plans to alleviate it. It was good for her to know exactly where she stood - especially after everything she''d pulled with Frost Industries and her little games with him. Folding her company into Hammer Industries had been a strategic win, but Emma herself was still untested in this new role, and he liked watching her squirm.


    He tapped the desk a final time and straightened, the smirk fading from his face. It was time to get to business.


    Storm and Bucky were both leading his assets in the field - Storm in Africa, overseeing the protection of his resources there, while Bucky and Kaecilius managed the situation in the States. Electro, newly recovered and assisting again after Emma had unlocked his mind, was with Bucky''s group. It turned out that Electro''s mental block wasn''t the result of an Apocalypse resurgence, as they''d feared. Emma had unlocked his mind with scorn in her voice, noting that there was no way Xavier hadn''t noticed the block when it first happened, considering he had been on-site.


    Apocalypse had simply locked Electro inside his own mind.


    Justin hadn''t been surprised by that revelation. It had only reaffirmed his belief that Xavier, like Magneto, was an old man clinging to power. Magneto was already rotting in one of his cells, and Xavier, while still technically free, was essentially inconsequential now. His team was falling apart, his public reputation shredded after recent revelations. Justin had no immediate plans to deal with Xavier, but it was something he kept in the back of his mind. The professor was less trustworthy than even Justin had originally believed.


    Magneto would only live long enough for Maya and Helen to figure out how to transfer his powers¡­ Then he too would pay for having had a hand in the fight that had taken Hope in the end.


    The large screen in front of Justin flickered to life as Sunil Bakshi appeared, his face sharp and serious. Doctor Octavius followed shortly after, his mechanical arms whirring faintly in the background as he adjusted something off-screen - thankfully properly built ones this time... Vanko was deployed with the H.A.M.M.E.R team, and Forge was occupied with engineering things for the Moon assault, so Octavius was the one reporting on the current state of the Iron Legion.


    Justin steepled his fingers, his eyes narrowing as he regarded the two men on the screen. "Make it quick, gentlemen," He said, his voice clipped. "I can''t afford to spend too much time on the Mandarin. He''s the lesser threat right now."


    The cold truth hung in the air. It would cost him - both in public perception and lives - to not be able to stop all the attacks that would come. But Justin couldn''t afford to let the Sentinel program run its course on the Moon. It was too dangerous to humanity.


    The Mandarin was an annoyance, a painful one, like a swarm of mosquitos giving him a thousand little pricks slowly, one by one.


    The Sentinel program had the possibility of becoming an extinction event, especially with Skrulls in charge of it, looking to take over the planet for their race. The Sentinels, if the program was completed before he could stop it, would be a force that would cost him a thousand times more than the Mandarin.


    The choice was easy in the end with such calculations.


    Sunil was the first to speak, his tone as efficient as always. "Sir, Nail has managed to intercept and prevent eleven sabotage attempts so far. However, we''ve missed six bombings in locations that were less well-covered. These incidents took place in low-priority nations - Peru, Zimbabwe, etc - but the casualties are still significant."


    Justin grimaced, resting his chin on his tented hands. "Nail, how are they avoiding you? And what can we do to fix it?" Not that much of the answer was likely anything they could do at the moment¡­


    Nail''s holographic avatar materialized near the table, her presence causing Emma to flinch slightly. It was obvious Emma was still uncomfortable with Justin''s global AI, having not known beforehand, but she wisely kept her mouth shut, though her eyes betrayed her unease.


    "Sir," Nail began, her voice calm and precise, "In well-developed countries, we''ve been able to catch the Mandarin''s operatives in the act. The use of their so-called ''ninja'' has been identified, but there simply isn''t enough surveillance infrastructure in less-developed nations to cover every possible target. The lack of CCTV and satellite coverage in these areas creates blind spots."


    Justin grunted in reluctant agreement. The ''uplift'' of these nations was still far from complete. It would take years to bring countries like Zimbabwe up to par with the surveillance and infrastructure of America or Europe. The Mandarin''s operatives, those damned ninjas, also managed to avoid using any technology that would make them easier to track, further complicating matters.


    He cast a sideways glance at Yelena. "Your Black Widows having any luck?"


    Yelena''s expression darkened. She hated failure. "They''re too spread out," She admitted, not bothering to hide her frustration. "By the time they receive the warnings, they can''t respond fast enough. We''ve already lost three agents."


    The weight of that loss settled over the room for a moment before Emma spoke up, her voice calculating and calm. "If you can capture someone from their organization, I can work them over," She suggested, her eyes glinting with the possibility of getting her hands on one of the Mandarin''s operatives.


    Sunil immediately nodded but looked doubtful. "They commit suicide at the slightest sign of any risk of capture," He explained grimly. "It''s unlikely we''ll be able to get our hands on one alive."


    Justin rubbed the bridge of his nose, irritation spiking. "Enough of this, then. We continue to upgrade our security. Spread Nail''s awareness wherever possible and defend ourselves as best we can. As frustrating as it is, we can lose a hundred factories and not technically lose anything that sets us back." His tone turned sharp. "Public perception is another issue. Nail, steer the media as best you can, control social media, remove as much bad news as possible."


    Nail nodded, her digital form flickering in acknowledgment. "Yes, sir. I will prioritize shifting narratives and ensuring minimal public fallout."


    Justin turned his attention back to Sunil. "China''s invasion of Taiwan and India - any other nations in Asia following suit?"


    It was a clever move by the Mandarin. The chaos was tying up a vast amount of Justin''s resources and time. With the man''s grip over much of Asia, China wasn''t the only concern. He could force a conflict elsewhere too.


    It would cost him, but the man was obviously willing to risk losing a few countries to take Justin down, safe in his immortality to return to power eventually for all he''d lost.


    Doctor Octavius cleared his throat before speaking. "The Iron Legion has successfully blunted the Chinese advance into India. We''ve also assisted U.S. naval forces in establishing air superiority over Chinese waters near Taiwan as the U.S. prepares for its liberation of Taiwan, though that''s still likely a month away at best with the Americans as they are.." He tapped at a tablet off-screen before continuing. "American soldiers are also assisting South Korea as North Korean forces have crossed the DMZ with Chinese support. Japan has remained quiet, but there are rumblings in Indonesia, and saber-rattling is escalating across the region."


    "We can only assist and hold for now," Justin said, his tone cold and dismissive. "Let the U.S. handle what they do best - well, as best as they can." He shook his head, a sardonic look on his face, the US for all its vaunted military didn''t exactly have that great of a record for actually solving any problems.


    Emma, who had remained silent until now, raised an immaculate eyebrow. "Thousands will die," She said simply, as if testing him.


    Justin''s gaze flicked to her, his expression hard. "And?"


    People tended to forget he was no hero. What did a few thousand or even hundreds of thousands of lives matter in the great calculus of things? Justin would bring the survivors utopia, that''s what mattered.


    HYDRA was right about one thing. Humans didn''t desire freedom, they were afraid of it - their real desire was safety, security, letting someone else make the decisions.


    Emma''s lips curved into a faint smirk. Yelena rolled her eyes at the other woman''s attempt to test him. Emma''s smirk faded slightly as Justin''s cold demeanor didn''t waver. Yelena, sitting next to him, gave Emma a small shake of her head, as if to say - you really don''t know him yet, do you?


    Doctor Octavius, oblivious to the tension between the women, cleared his throat. "Sir, the Iron Legion is stretched thin across Asia. If any more countries erupt into conflict, we''ll struggle to cover all fronts. The U.S. is prioritizing Taiwan, but if the entire region collapses into chaos¡­"


    Justin waved his hand dismissively. "If Asia erupts in flames, it erupts. We can''t be everywhere at once. We''re not gods." He paused, allowing a small smirk to return. "Well, most of us aren''t." He threw a glance at Yelena, who hid her smile. Emma, however, simply raised an eyebrow in silent acknowledgment of his newfound divinity.


    Doctor Octavius shifted uneasily, continuing his report. "Riots have broken out in several Chinese cities, but the government is suppressing them with brutal efficiency. There''s speculation that the Chinese leadership may be compromised, possibly Skrull involvement, due to the nature of the attacks."


    "Well, that will only help the narrative, I suppose." Justin murmured, "And what of the US, I know they''re holding meetings worried about ''my meteoric rise''." He said with some amusement. "Nail, anything else on why the Americans are poised to drag their feet?"


    Nail''s hologram appeared again, answering him. "Sir, there are rumblings of impeachment proceedings against President Ellis in Congress. American support for our efforts may wane if their government becomes consumed with internal conflict, and it appears it''s this conflict which is delaying matters."


    Justin let out a short, mirthless laugh. "Impeachment, huh? For what, exactly?"


    Nail tilted her head, her holographic eyes scanning through data. "The allegations center around Ellis'' connections to you, sir, and the fact that he permitted the use of the Iron Legion without congressional approval."


    Of course he''d done no such thing. Justin hadn''t bothered getting permission¡­ Oh well. Ellis could handle it on his own, or not¡­ Chaos in this helped him, even as it also gave him some headaches in the short term due to the US not being as quick as usual to jump into the conflict.


    Emma cut in smoothly, her gaze sharpening. "They can''t touch you directly, so they''re going after your perceived puppet. It''s politics as usual."


    Sunil leaned forward on the screen, his expression carefully neutral. "Do you want us to intervene, sir? Push back?"


    Justin shook his head, waving the suggestion away. "Let it play out. If they want to tear their own government apart while we''re busy, all the better. Chaos has its uses, after all." He glanced at Yelena, who nodded in agreement. "Let them flounder. We''ll capitalize on it later."


    Yelena cocked her head slightly, curious. "Won''t that set back U.S. military efforts?"


    Justin shrugged. "Possibly. But more likely, it''ll just be another example of their incompetence and indecision. The longer they waffle, the better we look in comparison when we start cleaning up their messes. People will see the truth in time."


    Emma studied him carefully, her icy exterior cracking just a bit as she realized the depth of his long-term strategy. The more the governments of the world failed - the sooner Hammer Industries could step in and take over.


    Doctor Octavius, his arms whirring behind him, shifted his focus. "Sir, if we pull too much of the Iron Legion to manage the chaos in Asia, it will leave other regions vulnerable, including our upcoming project." He reminded him.


    Justin steepled his fingers again, his gaze intent. "Which brings us to the Moon."


    Emma blinked in surprise, confusion finally crossing her carefully controlled expression. "The Moon?" She asked, trying to regain her composure.


    Yelena smirked, her amusement clear. "Oh, Emma, you didn''t know? Aliens are building an army of robots called Sentinels on the Moon - their goal, to wipe out humanity."


    Emma''s perfect posture faltered for the first time, her eyes widening slightly. "What!?"


    Justin chuckled darkly, enjoying the shock on her face. "Welcome to the big leagues, Emma. The world you knew is a small slice of a much bigger, much more dangerous universe. The Skrulls¡­ They''ve been playing with Earth, and now we''re getting involved to put a stop to it finally. The Sentinel program on the Moon is their latest project - designed to wipe us out."


    Emma''s expression hardened as she processed the information. She was no stranger to large-scale threats, but the idea of alien forces building a weapon of that magnitude unsettled even her. "And I assume we''re planning to stop it soon?" She clarified, stressing the word soon.


    "Of course," Justin replied smoothly, leaning back in his chair. "The question is how to best approach it. We''ve made great strides in developing countermeasures, but it''s a delicate situation. We can''t exactly announce to the world that we''re about to go to war with aliens."


    What if they failed the first strike? It would be humiliating. Better to wait to announce it after they''ve won.


    So they could tell the world, while you squabbled, we ended an extinction event. Hammer industries is your only way forward. Every instance of competence would make the eventual takeover smoother.


    Justin turned to Doctor Octavius. "What''s the status on our Moon mission?"


    Doctor Octavius glanced at his tablet again. "Preparations are nearly complete. Vanko has finalized the prototype armor for extraterrestrial deployment, and we''re ready to begin assembling the team. However, the Sentinel bases on the Moon are vast according to the recent Intel from Sinister, and we don''t have a complete picture of their strength. It will be a difficult battle."


    "Nothing worth doing is easy, Doc," Justin said with a smirk. "We''ll have to make do with what we have. Speed is key - before the Sentinels become fully operational."


    Worst case, there was the power stone, but that was not ideal. Blowing up the Moon hardly won him any points, not to mention the other issues with such a thing.


    Emma, having regained her composure, leaned forward slightly, her sharp gaze locked on Justin. "And what happens if we fail?"


    Justin frowned at her. "We won''t fail. That''s not an option. If we lose to the Sentinels, we lose everything."


    Yelena leaned back in her chair, her confidence radiating. "Then we better make sure the Moon becomes ours."


    Justin''s eyes gleamed with determination. "We will. The Sentinels are just one more obstacle in our way, and we''ve dealt with worse. Once we take control of the Moon, Earth''s space will be secure within a year."


    The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of their mission hanging in the air. They were on the brink of something monumental. The Mandarin''s chaos on Earth was nothing compared to the threat of the Sentinels lurking on the Moon.


    Justin stood, his hands planted firmly on the table. "We move forward. Finalize the team for the Moon operation. Everyone else, keep the Mandarin in check as best as you can while we''ll be gone. We can''t afford any distractions. Understood?"


    The group nodded, their focus unwavering.


    Justin glanced one last time at Emma, who still looked unsure of her place, but the gleam in her eyes said she liked what she saw. "Welcome to the real game, Emma."


    She held his gaze, her expression sharp and resolute. "I''m ready."


    The meeting ended, but the sense of impending action lingered. The war on Earth was just the beginning. The battle for the Moon - and the fate of humanity - was next.


    And Justin was ready for whatever came next.


    This was his planet!


    <hr>


    The next day, early morning, India.


    Justin stepped through the shimmering portal, the landscape of the border between China and India unfolding before him. The air was thick with the acrid stench of artillery fire and gunfire, smoke lingering over the battlefield.


    The terrain was littered with remnants of war - abandoned tanks, craters from artillery shells, and debris scattered across the ground. But the most prominent feature, unmistakable even from a distance, was the mountain of bodies, stacked haphazardly in a grotesque display of carnage. Atop this grisly throne lounged Hela, the Goddess of Death, looking entirely at ease.


    Is this how I''m going to find her every time? He thought, knowing she had a use, but disliking how much of a blunt tool she was. For as much as the idea of wielding a hammer, as a Hammer was - he preferred to utilize more multi-purpose tools, instead of a single solution one.


    He walked closer, inspecting her as he did.


    Her black armor glistened in the dim light of an early morning, the sun barely poking over the horizon, and her dark, blood-streaked hair hung loose over her shoulders. She sat with one leg draped over the edge of the macabre pile, idly tracing a finger across the edge of her necrosword as if it were the most casual of pastimes.


    Justin walked toward her slowly, his face impassive, his boots crunching over the gravel and debris beneath him. The bodies, the destruction - it was all irrelevant to him. His focus was on Hela, and the task at hand. He came to a stop just at the base of the pile, looking up at the goddess as she glanced down at him with an amused smile.


    "Hela," He greeted her with a small nod, his voice cutting through the stillness.


    Hela stretched languidly, as if she had just woken from a peaceful nap. "You send me to the nicest places, Justin," She purred, sounding pleased. Relaxed.


    Like she''d just went for a nice bath. Not a slaughter.


    Justin''s expression remained neutral. "When you can only do one thing..." He pointed out dryly, letting the implication hang in the air. What else was he supposed to do with her, after all?


    Hela pouted playfully, pretending to be offended by his words. "Oh, come now. I can do many things. You just prefer to keep me in my natural element." She shifted slightly on the pile, the sound of bodies shifting beneath her a grisly reminder of her work.


    Before Justin could respond, Hela''s head cocked to the side, her sharp ears picking up something in the distance. Her eyes gleamed with predatory delight as she crafted a massive necrosword from thin air. With a quick flick of her wrist, she hurled it skyward, and seconds later, there was a brilliant explosion in the sky, far off in the distance. Justin, with his heightened senses, barely caught the explosion with a flicker of energy dissipating.


    "They keep trying to bomb me," Hela said with a bored tone, inspecting her nails as if the effort had been beneath her. "Silly mortals. You don''t learn lessons very easily, do you?"


    "To be fair," Justin replied, his tone dry, "Most militaries aren''t used to facing someone who can just look at missiles and fighter jets and then say - No."


    Hela chuckled darkly, her lips curving into a sinister grin. "Mortals and their toys," She mused, tossing her hair over her shoulder. "They never quite grasp the futility of it all."


    Justin''s eyes remained steady on her, not giving her the satisfaction of amusement. He knew Hela loved the theatrics, loved to play her role to the hilt, but there was work to be done. "Are you ready to be useful again? Or do you plan to lounge around here all day?"


    Hela''s eyes lit up with excitement, her bloodthirsty grin widening. "You''re here to finally let me off the leash, aren''t you?" She leaned forward slightly, her eyes glinting with malevolent anticipation. "These Chinese... They''d bow to me if they lost a hundred million or two of their citizens."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. "I already forced the world to put their nukes away. I''m not about to let you enact your own version of Armageddon." He rolled his eyes at her exaggerated pout. "There''s plenty of death for you yet. We''re going after the Skrulls next."


    Hela''s pout deepened as she crossed her arms. "The Skrulls?" She scoffed, clearly unimpressed. "Those shapeshifting pests. You expect me to get excited about fighting them? Where''s the fun in that?"


    "They''ll have giant robots designed to exterminate humanity," Justin offered, his voice still carrying that note of dry detachment.


    Hela''s response was a dismissive wave of her hand. "Robots, you say? Killing machines without souls, without fear?" She sighed dramatically, flipping her hair. "Where''s the joy in that? No screams, no terror. Just cold metal falling to pieces. You really are depriving me, Justin." She gave him an exaggeratedly disappointed look. "And here I thought you, of all people, would understand my tastes. After all, with that domain of yours..." Her voice dropped to a suggestive purr as she gave him a teasing glance.


    Justin''s eyes narrowed. Without a word, he tapped into his domination domain, letting the weight of his power press down on Hela. It was a subtle yet overwhelming force, suffocating, bending reality to his will. Hela froze for a moment, feeling the weight of his authority wash over her. Her breath caught in her throat, and a slow, delighted grin spread across her face.


    ¡­Perhaps I''ve misstepped¡­ Justin thought.


    "Oh, that''s more like it," She crooned, tilting her head slightly, exposing her neck in a gesture of fake submission. "Do it harder," She whispered, a gleam of something dangerous flickering in her eyes.


    Justin released the pressure with a sigh, shaking his head. "Every day I wonder if you were worth the hassle of the payment we''re going to receive," He muttered under his breath, still not entirely sure he had made the right decision in bringing her into the fold.


    Hela giggled, her laughter low and dark. "Oh, darling, I''m worth every bit of trouble. You just don''t see it yet." She hopped off the pile of bodies with a graceful leap, landing effortlessly beside him. "One day, you''ll realize I''m right, and you''ll set your sights on the stars, on conquest. You''ll see." She gave him a wide, crazed grin, her eyes alight with ambition. "I know you will."


    Justin ignored her ramblings, focusing on the task at hand. "Are you done playing now? We''re preparing for the attack, and your experience in war could be... Useful. I could use your input." His tone was begrudging but practical.


    Hela sauntered past him toward the still-open portal, her hips swaying as she shot him a sidelong glance. "Oh, sweet of you to admit you need me," She purred, delighted.


    Justin let out another sigh, thankful he could no longer get headaches.


    Was it too late to get a refund?


    <hr>


    A day later, New York City.


    The safehouse was a small, nondescript apartment tucked away in the quiet corners of New York, the kind of place no one would ever look for them. In the dimly lit living room, Steve Rogers, Clint Barton, Natasha Romanoff, and Namor sat, watching the news broadcast on a large television.


    On the screen, a grim-faced news anchor reported on the escalating situation across the globe, her voice calm but filled with an underlying current of urgency.


    "We turn now to the worsening crisis in Asia," the anchor began, her face framed by a graphic showing the Chinese and Indian flags clashing. "In the last seventy-two hours, China has launched a full-scale offensive against the Indian border, overwhelming Indian defenses in the Himalayan region. Reports indicate thousands of casualties on both sides, with the Chinese military deploying overwhelming force, including mechanized infantry and air support, to secure the region."


    The screen cut to shaky footage of artillery fire echoing through the mountain passes, the snow-capped peaks lit up by the explosions, as Indian soldiers scrambled to hold their position. The camera zoomed in on distant plumes of smoke rising from the valley below.


    "In addition to the conflict with India," the anchor continued, "China has also overwhelmed Taiwan''s defenses, leading to the island''s military collapse in several key locations. Sources indicate that the Chinese navy is now establishing blockades around the island, preventing any outside assistance from reaching Taiwanese forces."


    A map of the region appeared on the screen, showing the positions of Chinese and Taiwanese forces, red arrows showing the direction of the Chinese advance as the situation deteriorated by the hour.


    The broadcast didn''t stop there. "Meanwhile, in a coordinated move, North Korea, with suspected Chinese assistance, has launched a series of assaults across the demilitarized zone, striking against South Korea. Seoul has mobilized its full military force, but there are reports of overwhelming numbers coming from the north. American forces have already seen battle to defend their allies in South Korea."


    Footage switched to South Korean soldiers, as well as Americans, rushing into action, tanks rumbling down highways, fighter jets streaking through the skies as sirens blared in the background.


    The anchor''s voice became grave, "The United States has issued a strong condemnation of China''s actions, but with their forces already committed to aiding Taiwan and defending South Korea, there are growing concerns over the ability of international forces to respond to multiple flashpoints. The world holds its breath, wondering where this will all lead."


    The broadcast switched to the sight of the Iron Legion, "Thankfully, Hammer industries were able to blunt the advance by Chinese forces into India, due to a new proje-"


    Steve had seen enough. His jaw tightened, and with a look of disgust, he reached for the remote and shut off the television.


    "People never learn," He muttered, the frustration in his voice evident. His blue eyes glared at the now-blank screen, as if daring it to challenge his disgust. Showcasing more examples of war and stupidity.


    Natasha leaned back on the worn couch, her gaze still fixed on the TV screen, even though it was now dark. She had that look, the one where she was seeing more than the rest of them. The wheels were turning in her mind, and she wasn''t just watching the news; she was analyzing it, connecting dots the others weren''t even aware of.


    "That''s kind of our thing, Cap," She drawled in the end, a sarcastic edge to her voice. "Although this one could likely be laid at Hammer''s feet, he''s stirred the world up too much.."


    Across the room, Namor, who had been pacing with a furious energy, paused. The King of Talokan had been in a constant state of agitation ever since he had been forced into a series of humiliating concessions by the U.S. government, and Hammer''s influence had been central to that outcome. His black hair, slicked back in its usual fashion, as his whole body bristled with agitation, his muscular frame seemed coiled, ready to explode at the slightest provocation.


    "Hammer is behind this?" Namor asked sharply, his tone filled with contempt. "We should stop it then. End this madness before it spreads further." Rebuild their reputation, was left unsaid, but easily picked up on by the spies.


    Clint exchanged a look with Natasha, the two of them holding a silent conversation in a way only seasoned operatives could. It lasted a second before Clint shrugged and addressed Namor directly.


    "Look, I''m not a fan of the guy either," Clint admitted, his voice calm but firm. "But we''re laying low right now, remember? This -" He gestured to the television, " - this situation is the opposite of low."


    Steve stood up suddenly, his presence commanding as ever, and walked toward the center of the room. His frustration boiled just beneath the surface, his fists clenching and unclenching as he spoke. "No, Clint''s wrong. Namor''s right." His voice was filled with conviction. "This is where we can prove we can still be trusted. We need to stop this war. All this chaos, all these invasions - it''s Hammer''s fault. His reckless technology. His Iron Legion, his disregard for people''s will. He''s thrown the world into chaos, and we''re the ones who can put a stop to it."


    Natasha''s brow furrowed as she looked at Steve, the tone of his voice setting off alarms in her head. "Steve, that''s not really -" She began, but he cut her off with a wave of his hand.


    "We can stop this, Nat," Steve continued, his voice rising with conviction. "This is the right thing to do. Just like I fought the Germans, just like I fought HYDRA, we''ll fight this invasion, and we''ll stop Hammer''s influence from spreading." He spread his hands out with a winning smile, "And just like then, they''ll thank us for it!"


    Natasha shared another look with Clint, both of them clearly unsettled by Steve''s sudden fervor. This was risky. Too risky.


    Namor, of course, was all too eager to seize the opportunity. "The Captain speaks truly!" He declared, stepping forward, his voice echoing with the authority of a king. "We can liberate this¡­ Taiwan, from these invaders. Once we do, the world will know we are the ones they should turn to. They will recognize us as their saviors!"


    Clint sighed, crossing his arms. "There''s four of us," He said, his tone dry, but the tension in his body was clear. "We can''t fight an army. Not China''s, not North Korea''s, and definitely not whatever Hammer''s got up his sleeve."


    Steve''s shoulders slumped slightly, the weight of reality sinking in. "There must be a way¡­" He murmured, his voice trailing off as he ran a hand through his hair.


    Natasha closed her eyes and muttered a curse under her breath. She had known things were bad, but now it felt like they were spiraling out of control faster than she could keep up. Just as she was about to speak, Namor lit up with a smug, triumphant smirk.


    "We can use my soldiers," Namor announced, as if the idea were the most obvious thing in the world. "With my forces at the forefront, we will sweep through their ranks, rise up from the sea to liberate Taiwan, and claim the victory for ourselves. No one will dare question our strength."


    Steve''s face brightened almost immediately. "That''s right," He said, his voice filled with renewed determination. "And no one can criticize us for protecting people''s freedom from invaders. No one."


    Natasha opened her mouth to protest that, but the words died on her lips. Instead, she sighed heavily, standing up from the couch. "Steve, we need to lay low right now," She said, trying to keep her voice level. "Going after China - one of the world''s largest armies - is not laying low. It''s the exact opposite of laying low, Clint was right on that."


    Clint nodded in agreement, pushing himself up from the chair. "Namor, Steve - look, we need to think this through. We need to wait for the right moment, find the best spot to jump in. We can''t just rush into this headfirst. Not after last time." His voice was strained, the memory of their last failed mission hanging in the air like a dark cloud.


    But Steve and Namor weren''t listening. They were standing shoulder to shoulder now, going over the logistics of an attack on Taiwan as if they were planning a simple raid, not a war. Namor''s excitement was palpable, while Steve''s sense of righteousness burned brightly in his eyes.


    Clint and Natasha exchanged yet another look, both of them clearly frustrated. This is madness! They both thought.


    "Every other side sucks," Clint muttered under his breath, glancing at the two men in front of them. "But this isn''t the best position either." He admitted.


    Natasha''s face tightened, her mind racing through the possible outcomes of this reckless plan. "We''re persona non grata. We can only hope this plan works out." She paused, her voice dropping into a more uncertain tone. "It''s... Possible a win here could help us."


    Clint grimaced. "If we win."


    Natasha nodded, her gaze lingering on Namor, who was practically glowing with self-importance. "If we win," She muttered, more to herself than to Clint.


    Deep down, she had a feeling that even if they succeeded in this crazy plan, the world wouldn''t be any more grateful than they were now. Namor might relish the idea of a triumphant victory, but there was a reason they were laying low in the first place.


    And dragging the people of Talokan into this mess might just make things worse.


    Should she try to reach out? Maybe¡­ Maybe Yelena could¡­


    No. She clenched her fists at her sides, her resolve hardening. Calling Yelena was too much like admitting defeat. She was THE Black Widow, and she''d find a way to make this work.


    Natasha stood up, rubbing her temples before addressing the room. "Boys, if we''re doing this, we''re doing it right. So listen up."


    Steve and Namor turned toward her, still buzzing with energy, but there was a hint of acknowledgment in Steve''s eyes. He respected her enough to know that if Natasha Romanoff had something to say, it was worth listening to. Namor, however, looked less enthused, but even he quieted down when Natasha raised a hand.


    Clint, sitting back with his head in his hands, peeked through his fingers, groaning softly. "I guess we''re really doing this, huh?" He muttered, his tone half resigned, half exasperated.


    This could only end well, he thought.


    <hr>


    Johannesburg, same time.


    Storm stood above the smoking ruins of Johannesburg''s once-thriving industrial complex built by Hammer industries, her eyes filled with fury as she took in the devastation. Flames roared beneath the thick, acrid smoke rising into the sky, and the chaos on the ground was immense. Rescue teams scrambled to save what they could, but the sheer scale of destruction left little hope. Bodies lay scattered, covered in makeshift tarps, while survivors, bloodied and dust-covered, wandered aimlessly, their faces frozen in shock.


    Taking a deep breath, Storm called upon her power, raising her arms toward the heavens. The wind responded instantly, whipping around her, and the already darkened skies swirled violently. Her white hair floated in the air as if it had a life of its own. The air above began to shift, growing thick and humid as she summoned her element. Thunder rumbled overhead as she formed massive storm clouds, and soon, fat raindrops began to fall in torrents.


    The downpour intensified with every passing second, rain cascading over the burning buildings below, sending up clouds of steam as it met the roaring flames. Storm concentrated, guiding the rain precisely where it was needed. She could feel the fire fighting her back, but she would win. She had to. For all the innocents caught in the middle of the Mandarin''s reign of terror, for all the progress that was slipping away under a tide of blood and flames, she had to succeed.


    "Tell me we got any of them!" She growled into her communicator, her voice strained with barely contained rage.


    From his position in the sky beside her, Brock, piloting the Vulture armor, scanned the ground. His helmeted head swiveled back and forth, searching through the wreckage. His mechanical voice came through her earpiece, filled with disgust. "Suicide attack, Storm. They took themselves out. Nothing left to trace, no evidence to find. It''s all gone."


    Storm''s fists clenched tightly at his words, and for a brief moment, she lost control. The winds howled around her as a burst of anger flared through her, the deluge intensifying to the point that even the firefighters had to step back. Realizing what she had done, she forced herself to calm, reining in her powers with a slow exhale. The winds lessened, the rain slowing to a more manageable torrent, just enough to continue smothering the flames.


    "So many dead," She whispered, her voice barely audible over the storm she had created. Her heart broke as her gaze shifted back to the rows of bodies covered in tarps. "Africa was finally going somewhere, Rumlow... We were building a future. Hammer''s work was bringing us hope. And now..." She trailed off, her voice thick with emotion as she swallowed hard.


    Brock''s voice crackled in her ear again. "Yeah, I know. It''s hard to look at this and not feel like we''ve failed." There was a pause as his armor hovered beside her. "Suicide bombers are almost impossible to defend against. They erased all the evidence by their actions. We have nothing."


    Storm clenched her fists, the rain shifting as her emotions warred within her. "We have too many targets to protect," She admitted, her voice low and pained. "Nail gave us the warning, but it wasn''t enough. Not in time. Not to stop this." She looked down at the burning complex and then at the grieving families left behind, sobbing and clutching each other in disbelief. "We disarmed two bombs, but the rest... And then those trucks full of explosives." She shook her head, the frustration boiling over.


    "We need to strike back," She muttered, her voice laced with venom. "We need to stop this before it happens again."


    Brock agreed, his voice carrying a tone of helpless anger. "Yeah. If we knew where the bastard was hiding, I''d be the first to volunteer. But as it is..." He trailed off, letting the silence fill the air between them.


    Storm knew what he was thinking, and she hated that he was right. "The Sentinels," She said, her tone bitter. "We can''t leave that threat unchecked." She closed her eyes for a moment, feeling the weight of the decision pressing down on her shoulders. The lives lost today were nothing compared to the devastation the Sentinel program could cause if they didn''t deal with it now. But it didn''t make this any easier to accept.


    "We should be here, Rumlow," She said softly. "Helping them. These are my people, dying because of that monster, and all we can do is..." She shook her head, unable to finish the sentence.


    "All we can do is finish this fight as fast as we can," Brock replied, his voice quiet but firm. "Take care of the Sentinels. Then we come back, and we deal with the Mandarin."


    Storm bit her lip, her frustration bubbling to the surface again. "This is the right call, isn''t it?" She asked, though she already knew the answer. "It has to be. I just... I can''t stand that it feels like we''re abandoning them."


    Brock didn''t respond for a moment, and when he did, his voice was quieter. "Yeah. I get that. But this is bigger than us, bigger than Johannesburg, Africa or anywhere else that''s gotten hit." His voice hardened. "We have to stop the Sentinels before they wipe us all out. And then we can make the Mandarin pay."


    The rain continued to pour as Storm hovered above the wreckage, her heart heavy with grief and rage. She hated this. Hated the choices she had to make, the lives she couldn''t save. But Rumlow was right. The Sentinel program was too great a threat to ignore. If they didn''t stop it, the cost would be far higher than what they were seeing now.


    "We have until Justin picks us up, correct?" She asked, her voice flat, the tears mixing with the rain streaming down her face.


    "Yeah." Brock''s reply was simple, but there was an understanding between them that went deeper than words.


    Without another word, Storm descended slowly to the ground, landing near a group of first responders working desperately to pull survivors from the rubble. Her cape billowed behind her as the rain soaked her to the bone, but she didn''t care. She couldn''t leave without helping them, even if only for a little while.


    "I will assist the emergency services," She said quietly, her voice carrying the weight of a promise. She was still a leader, a protector. And she wouldn''t abandon these people in their hour of need.


    Brock descended as well, landing beside her. His voice came through his helmet, but it was softer now, more human. "I know enough first aid. I''ll lend a hand too."


    Storm nodded, her face set with determination as she knelt beside a firefighter who was struggling to free a trapped civilian. She wasn''t the hero she used to be, the one who believed that good always triumphed over evil. But she was something else now - something that the Mandarin and those who threatened her people would come to fear.


    Because when they found him, the one responsible for all this death and destruction... When they finally tracked down the Mandarin...


    She was going to show him the fury of Gaia.


    <hr>

 Take me to the Moon.

    <hr>


    December 2009,


    They were all gathered aboard Justin''s space station. Massive screens flickered between different subjects behind the raised dais where Yelena and Phantazia stood, both women exuding a calm confidence, their sharp gazes focused on the group assembled before them.


    The H.A.M.M.E.R. team, amongst them, assembled in full force, stood at attention,


    There was an edge to this gathering - a heaviness in the air that spoke of the gravity of their mission. Added to the mix were Hela, lounging casually near the back of the group, her dark presence palpable even when she was still, and Emma Frost, who stood off to the side, regal as ever, her frosty demeanor betraying nothing.


    Justin stood by the back wall, leaning against it with his arms folded. His usual air of supreme confidence was still there, but his thoughts were elsewhere. He had been quiet for most of the briefing, though his mind churned with an endless flood of prayers. They whispered to him from the corners of his consciousness, pulling at his attention like tiny hooks - desperate pleas from people around the world begging for his intervention. The escalating crisis across the globe weighed on him, even as he worked to tune it out.


    Although he''d been prepared to rip off towards the moon right away, due to Forge having finished his preparations for his secret weapon. They''d neglected some basics, and had to cool their heels as the basic necessities to survive in space were taken care of. It had been embarrassing for all parties to have forgotten something so simple.


    Actual armor for those going.


    Justin closed his eyes, shaking off that ridiculous mistake, his thoughts continuing to turn to the worsening situation across the globe.


    For all that he''d felt the Mandarin could not match him, he was turning out to be one annoying enemy¡­


    The situation had gone from bad to worse over the last week. China''s aggressive moves, North Korea''s audacity, and the ever-compounding chaos had reached a new level of madness when Japan, in a stunning turn of events, launched a military assault on South Korea. No one had seen that coming.


    Well, except for Nail who had immediately picked up on the movement of personnel and the chatter on ''secure channels''. Justin hadn''t bothered informing anyone however at that point, it wouldn''t stop anything. It was regrettable, but it would still all work in his favor in the end. Everyone else had seen a Japanese ''naval drill'' that to their surprise went hot.


    The coordinated effort between the North Koreans and the Chinese forces, now reinforced by Japan''s betrayal, had completely blindsided the Americans and their South Korean allies and pincered them between the trifecta of Mandarin puppets. If he hadn''t forced the world''s leaders to lock away their nuclear arsenals, the situation would likely have escalated into a full-scale nuclear conflict by now. He could feel the weight of those decisions pressing on him as world leaders, military officials, and everyday citizens sent their pleas his way.


    For a moment, Justin wondered if delaying the Moon operation even further would have been the better call. The instinct to step in and stop the madness, to put out the immediate fires burning across the world, had gnawed at him earlier that morning despite his own hand in it. But no - he reminded himself of the stakes. The Sentinel program was far too dangerous to ignore. If left unchecked, it had the potential to end all life on Earth. He couldn''t afford to let his focus waver now, no matter how loud the cries for help became.


    He had to tell himself he was helping eventually, he would put a stop to it. When it most benefited him to do so.


    Yelena''s voice snapped him back to the present, her cool, commanding tone cutting through the haze of his thoughts. "We will be going in hot," She said, eyes scanning the team in front of her. "There''s no way to tell how many enemies there are, how far along the program is at this juncture, or what fighting capabilities the Skrulls themselves have."


    Beside her, Phantazia paced across the dais, her hands clasped behind her back, radiating an air of analytical calm as she took over. "Now I will stress," Phantazia began, her sharp voice carrying across the room, "That although we have intel on the largest base, the actual production base - enough to portal there - we do not have sufficient information to ensure we go in quietly. This will not be a stealth mission. We will likely meet resistance as soon as we breach the base."


    Behind them, the holographic display lit up with Nail''s projections, showcasing a theorized map of the base they were about to assault made in part with Sinister''s knowledge and partly through scans. The base itself was massive - an intricate web of subterranean chambers built into the Moon''s surface. The layout was dominated by long corridors, production floors, research labs, and gigantic storage facilities for completed ''product''. Nail''s estimates for the number of likely active Sentinels were displayed on the screen in cold, hard numbers, though there was still a great deal of uncertainty. The numbers were unsettling, even to the battle-hardened operatives in the room.


    Storm eyed the hologram thoughtfully, her brow furrowing as she studied one of the lower sections. "That looks like holding cells," She said, jabbing a finger at the glowing red area in the diagram. "Do they have captives?"


    Phantazia shook her head, her expression hard. "We don''t know for sure. The interrogation of Sinister revealed that he wasn''t up to date on the project. Captives may have been held in the past, but we cannot confirm if they''re still alive or if those cells are even in use."


    Bucky, standing beside Storm, had his arms crossed, his mechanical arm twitching slightly as he tapped a finger against it in thought. "What''s our SOP on hostages?" He asked, his voice tight, his eyes flicking toward Yelena.


    Yelena met his gaze without flinching, her face impassive. "If they''re still alive after we''ve secured the facility, great," She said, her tone matter-of-fact. "But the priority is the eradication of the Sentinel program. If the Skrulls attempt to take hostages, if they assume familiar faces, we cannot hesitate. If necessary, we will blow the entire base, even with potential survivors inside." She sounded entirely unconcerned about the fact.


    Storm and Bucky both grimaced at the harsh reality of her words. They exchanged a look - both of them uncomfortable with the idea of leaving potential captives behind - but the gravity of the situation settled over them. They understood the stakes. The Sentinel program could not be allowed to continue, not at the cost of all humanity.


    Across the room, Hela scoffed, arms crossed over her chest as she leaned lazily against the wall. Her face twisted into a sneer as she eyed Bucky and Storm with disdain, her lips curling at their discomfort. "Such noble concerns," She drawled, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Mortals worrying about their precious ''collateral damage'' in a war. How quaint."


    Bucky turned to face her, his expression hardening. "Got a problem?"


    Before Hela could respond, Justin''s voice cut through the room like a blade. "Hela." He said her name with a cold finality that silenced any further commentary from the goddess. All eyes turned toward him as he remained by the back wall, his gaze steady, making it clear that he had no time for her games.


    Hela made a show of considering whether or not to listen, her fingers tapping her chin theatrically before she rolled her eyes and scoffed, "No problem here, mortal," She said sweetly, her voice dripping with false sincerity.


    Bucky''s gaze remained locked on her for a moment longer, his jaw clenched as if deciding whether or not to push the issue, but Storm''s hand on his shoulder pulled him back. They both turned their attention back to the briefing, though the tension in the room remained thick.


    Phantazia cleared her throat, drawing attention back to the holographic display. "I know some of us are concerned about collateral damage, and that is¡­ Commendable," She said, her voice flat, as though she didn''t entirely agree with that sentiment. "But we cannot afford hesitation. The Sentinel program poses a potential world-ending threat. If they spread across the globe, capable of building more of themselves, the casualties will be beyond anything we''ve seen before. We must eliminate the program, even at the cost of a few lives."


    Yelena nodded, picking up where Phantazia left off. "Each group will be led by someone with experience in war. There can be no hesitation in the moment." She gestured to Bucky. "Cap, you''ll lead Team One." She pointed to Brock Rumlow. "Brock, you''ll lead Team Two." Then to Frank Castle. "Frank, you''re leading Team Three."


    Frank Castle stood silently near the back of the group, his eyes cold and calculating as he gave Yelena a brief nod of acknowledgment. He had no objections. His task was simple - destroy the enemy, no matter the cost.


    With what he owed Hammer Industries. He''d kill who he was told to kill. And especially with this threat. He shifted slightly, watching the rest of them, especially Storm. He would not allow his family to be at threat from anyone hesitating.


    Yelena''s gaze flicked to Justin. "Sir will be backed up by myself and Domino. Hela¡­" She trailed off for a moment, glancing at the goddess with a look of distaste. "Hela will be operating independently."


    Hela''s eyes gleamed with a wicked smile. "I''ll handle the whole facility by myself," She said arrogantly, her voice dripping with confidence. "I''ll leave you some scraps, perhaps." She cast a smug glance at Yelena, clearly enjoying the reaction her words provoked amongst the others.


    Yelena, to her credit, didn''t rise to the bait. She simply ignored the goddess and turned back to the task at hand. "Nail has identified key locations based on Sinister''s intel and the best estimations we could make. Each team will be inserted into critical areas to maximize our impact on taking down command staff and engineers, as well as the reactor." She stressed again, "Remember some of this is guesswork, you might have to trek slightly to get to your targets if we are wrong."


    Phantazia gestured to the hologram, which highlighted several bright red areas. "Team One, you''ll be hitting the living quarters of the Skrulls. We suspect this is where their command staff may be located as well based on Sinister''s knowledge of the layout that was proposed before it was built." She pointed to another red spot. "Team Two, your objective is the reactor. Prevent them from utilizing it, and if necessary¡­ Blow it."


    Everyone''s expressions tightened at that, but no one voiced an objection.


    "Team Three," Phantazia continued, "You''ll be taking the production facility offices. We believe this is where they coordinate their mass production of Sentinels, and should hold the senior engineering staff, stop them before they can do anything unwise."


    Yelena stepped forward again, her tone firm. "Sir and our team will portal directly into the production floor and holding facility. Hela will be sent to the opposite side of the same area in case they have operational units already in service down there. Sir and Hela are both out heaviest hitters right now, and should be able to handle any operational units while the rest of you shut down the Skrulls.


    "Any questions?"


    Half the team raised their hands, or in Electro''s case. Both hands.


    £ª£ª£ª


    Over an hour later,


    The hallway leading to the hangar felt longer than usual as Justin led the group, his steps quiet and deliberate. The team, fully briefed, followed behind him. Despite the hum of idle chatter and the occasional clink of armor, there was an unspoken tension in the air, the weight of the mission pressing down on them all.


    They had prepared as much as they could vis-a-vis information, but no one knew exactly what awaited them on the Moon. The unknown gnawed at the back of Justin''s mind, but he kept his face impassive, projecting the confidence his team expected of him.


    Forge, however, had no such reservations about lightening the mood. Walking backward to face the group, he flashed a crooked grin. "Alright, listen up, folks. This ain''t Kansas anymore. You''re fighting in space, and for those of you who might''ve flunked science class - " His eyes darted toward Electro, and then Brock, " - I''ll break it down real simple for ya."


    Electro, oblivious to the jab, glanced around the hallway, clearly distracted by his own thoughts. Brock, on the other hand, scowled. "Why the hell are you looking at me like that, Forge?" His voice carried just enough irritation to make the others smirk.


    Forge barely contained his laughter, continuing, "As I was saying - space! And we, or rather you all, since I''m smart enough to stay behind, will be fighting robots. The easiest way for them to win would be to blow a hole somewhere and let you guys suffocate. Simple, right?"


    Hela, strolling lazily at the back of the group, buffed her nails as if the conversation bored her. "I can survive in space," She said dismissively, her tone laced with superiority. "You mortals should just¡­ Evolve." She added, mockingly.


    Forge raised an eyebrow, glancing her way. "Already at it, boss lady," He said with dryness, his tone not missing a beat.


    Yelena shot him a look, immediately stepping into his space. "Why is she boss lady?" She asked with a low growl, one hand lightning fast as she grabbed Forge''s shoulder, causing him to stumble slightly, managing without missing a step.


    Forge started sweating, his face full of nervous amusement. "Uh¡­ Well¡­ Because she''s, uh, banging the boss? Right?" He squeaked, trying to laugh it off, but clearly uncomfortable under Yelena''s fierce glare, and the grip of her hand.


    Phantazia, walking nearby, snorted. "Please. If that were true, half the company would have that title. Present company included."


    Yelena''s grip tightened, making Forge wince. "She. Is. Not. Banging. Justin," She enunciated clearly, each word carrying a distinct threat. Forge squirmed, trying to pull free.


    "Okay, okay! She''s not! Jeez, you''re gonna break something!" Forge pleaded, his usual attitude faltering.


    Hela, who had been observing the exchange with a bemused smirk, interjected, "Please. If he ever got a taste of me, he''d be nothing but a thrall for eternity. I am indescribable." Her voice was dripping with pride, and the arrogant gleam in her eyes only deepened the tension between her and the rest of the group.


    Storm especially was eying Hela warily.


    Domino, who had been listening in, leaned toward Phantazia, muttering, "At least their egos match." Phantazia stifled a laugh, elbowing her back, trying to regain her serious facade.


    Even as the banter filled the hallway, Justin remained silent, his steps steady, his eyes distant. He could feel something unsettling gnawing at him, a deep, instinctual warning vibrating within his bones. His divinity had granted him heightened senses, almost a sixth sense that allowed him to feel the world in ways he hadn''t before. But this¡­ This wasn''t the same. It felt like a shadow looming over his thoughts, a remnant of his mortal fears or some premonition of danger. He couldn''t quite place it, but the weight of it sat with him, clouding his mind in quiet moments.


    "You were saying something about keeping us from dying horribly in space?" Storm''s voice pulled Forge back on track. She kept her tone light, but her gaze was sharp, a mix of wariness and skepticism. The tension between her and Hela was still evident, as every so often, she''d catch the goddess making a sligh teasing gesture, or begin the movements for a lunge only to break off, and Storm''s muscles would tense reflexively each time.


    Forge snapped his fingers, regaining his momentum. "Right, right! Thanks to my genius - and some minor input from the boss - " He gave a half-grudging nod to Justin, who was still lost in his own thoughts, " - We''ve got a way to keep y''all from dying when things go sideways." Before he could elaborate, Vanko''s voice boomed from beside Brock.


    "Typical American dog. Act like I do not do most of prep work. You just take, take, take," Vanko grumbled, the heavy Russian accent adding a layer of something to his words.


    Forge rolled his eyes, gesturing wildly. "Oh please! Drinking vodka and critiquing everything I did isn''t ''helping with prep work,'' you glorified electrician!" Forge shot back with a smirk.


    Yelena, clearly unimpressed, smacked Forge upside the head. "Focus."


    "Right, right¡­" Forge muttered, rubbing the back of his head and glaring at Yelena out of the corner of his eye.


    Before Forge could finish, Justin stepped ahead and slammed his palm on a nearby control panel. With a heavy hiss, the door to the hangar slid open, revealing the massive room beyond. The dim light of the hallway gave way to the bright, gleaming interior of the hangar, filled wall-to-wall with state-of-the-art power armor.


    The team hurried through the doors, fanning out as their eyes took in the impressive sight. A dozen armor suits lined the walls, each tailored to fit the wearer''s specific needs. Justin stood at the threshold, his back straight and his expression impassive. "Tada," Forge muttered sarcastically, rolling his eyes. "I guess¡­"


    At the center of the hangar, each armor stood waiting for its respective owner. A gleaming red, white, and blue suit stood out among them - Bucky''s. The ongoing debate over who would carry the mantle of Captain America had yet to be resolved, but with the world''s attention elsewhere, the issue had been pushed to the back burner.


    Bucky would no doubt gladly give the title back to Steve, but thankfully for Justin, that hadn''t been able to be arranged, with the Avengers'' stupidity in following a fugitive slowing everything up.


    The women''s armors were lined up next to each other, including one for Emma Frost, who would be accompanying them more for her telepathic abilities than her combat prowess. Although she''d be able to punch way above her weight with this, without needing to use her powers, leaving them as a backup. Each suit gleamed under the lights, custom-built and battle-ready.


    ¡­ Well ready now. A week later than he''d liked.


    Even Electro had his own upgraded suit that took advantage of his powers. Though he had hesitated when the mission was first brought up, Max had ultimately decided to join the team - despite his internal struggles - and his armor fit his theme, crackling with faint arcs of energy.


    Even Kaecillius had gotten a suit, despite the fact he could likely just use magic to protect himself.


    Domino, who had been quiet up until now, suddenly cursed. "What the hell is this?" She shouted, pointing at her suit. "Why does mine look like the pink Power Ranger?"


    A ripple of laughter spread through the group, but it was Yelena''s giggle that turned Domino''s ire. She spun to face Justin, who raised an eyebrow in the first sign of amusement he''d shown all day.


    "Yelena picked the designs for the armors," Justin said smoothly, throwing her under the bus without a second thought.


    Yelena''s laughter grew as Domino''s eyes narrowed. "My revenge," Domino muttered darkly, "Will be told for a thousand years¡­"


    "It''s cute." Storm said, hiding a grin behind her hand.


    "Sit on a lightning bolt. You take the pink one if you like it so much." Domino snarked back.


    Shaking her head, Domino stalked off to inspect her suit up close, the others still chuckling at her misfortune. Yelena, for her part, was unrepentant, her grin wide and mischievous.


    "Alright, everyone," Justin called out, his voice firm, bringing the room to attention. "You''ve got two hours to familiarize yourselves with the manuals for the suits and another two for practice runs. After that, we move. Get to it."


    Not enough perhaps normally, but these weren''t normal people.


    The room shifted into motion, the operatives moving toward their designated armors, some already familiar with their suits from past missions. Brock, Frank, and Vanko began helping those who were newer to the tech, guiding them through the setup process. Hela remained aloof, uninterested in the armors and choosing instead to observe with mild disdain.


    Justin hadn''t even bothered getting one for her. He''d only get some comment on how she enjoyed the feel of her enemies blood on her skin or the like as an excuse.


    Justin took this opportunity to pull away, making a beeline for Electro, who had been standing off to the side, studying his armor with a thoughtful expression. Though Electro''s usual manic energy seemed subdued, there was a quiet determination in his eyes. He wasn''t quite the same man he had been before, but Justin needed to gauge just how much had changed.


    "Max," Justin began, his tone casual but probing. "How are you holding up? I appreciate you volunteering to come, despite everything you''ve been through."


    Max flashed him a toothy grin and gave him a thumbs-up. "I wasn''t gonna miss this, boss. Besides, my powers are perfect for taking on these clankers, right?" His usual confidence was creeping back in, but there was an edge of uncertainty beneath it.


    Justin shrugged slightly. "This isn''t a comic book. We don''t know how insulated the Sentinels are. It''s possible your powers won''t be as effective as you think. Be prepared to rely on your suit''s other systems if necessary."


    Electro''s grin faltered for a moment before he scowled. "Stupid clankers should just accept electric judgment!" He grumbled. Running a hand through his disheveled hair, he sighed. "Hey, uh, boss, I gotta say¡­ I was kinda aware the entire time I was locked in my mind." Max''s voice wavered as he spoke, his usual bravado falling away. "I heard the talks about, y''know, pulling the plug. So, uh, thanks for not¡­ Doing that." His grin returned, though it was smaller, less sure.


    Justin''s face remained neutral, but inwardly, he grimaced. The discussions about ending Electro''s life, had the issue holding him in his mind not been solved, were not exactly secret. He wondered how much Max had overheard while trapped inside his mind, and the fact that he had been aware the entire time only added to the horror. Still, Justin''s voice stayed calm as he responded, "I''m glad we found a solution. But you have to understand why we had to consider all the options."


    Max nodded quickly, his grin broadening again as he waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, yeah, totally. No hard feelings, boss. I get it. Apocalypse was one scary dude. But hey, you guys fixed me, so we''re all good, right?" He raised his fist in a gesture of camaraderie, the familiar spark of enthusiasm returning.


    Justin hesitated only a fraction of a second before bumping his fist against Max''s. While it was a small gesture, it went a long way in keeping Electro''s loyalty intact. Besides, Electro was far more focused now than he had been before, and while Justin found him less grating, he knew better than to underestimate how fragile that balance might be.


    As Justin turned away from Max, his attention shifted to the notifications scrolling across the screen of his glasses. Reports of the escalating global conflict were still pouring in, detailing clashes between Japan''s navy and air force and the combined forces of Australia and the U.S at sea. With Indonesia launching missiles to come in on Japan''s side. The world was rapidly descending into chaos, and the Mandarin''s influence was becoming more unpredictable by the day. Justin''s eyes twitched slightly as he closed the reports, his mind racing with possibilities.


    The question gnawing at him was simple but terrifying in its implications: Would there even be a world left to save when they returned from the Moon? Everything was escalating far further then he''d thought.


    Perhaps it had been naive to think he could control the chaos.


    Or perhaps he would have been able to if he wasn''t busy with this situation¡­


    He glanced around at his team, seeing them prepping and laughing, trying to shake off the nerves. It was the last bit of levity they might experience for a long while. And while the Moon was their priority, the worsening state of global affairs weighed heavily on Justin''s mind. The world was on fire - literally and figuratively - and every hour they spent away from it increased the risk of irreversible damage.


    He sighed inwardly, contemplating the chaos unfolding below. The Mandarin''s machinations were increasingly erratic. While Justin understood how chaos could be a useful tool to destabilize and seize control, there came a point when even chaos became too uncontrollable, too volatile to predict. The Mandarin had crossed that line. He had unleashed a flood of destruction that no longer followed any logic or strategy.


    Japan''s entry into the conflict, in particular, had blindsided nearly everyone. It made no sense for the once pacifist nation to engage so aggressively. It was a clear indication that the Mandarin''s control over Japan''s elite was absolute.


    The longer Justin pondered it, the more unsettling it became. Japan was now acting like the Japan of old - imperialistic, aggressive, and unrelenting. And that terrified everyone. Especially the Japanese, if the word on massive riots breaking out all across Japan said anything.


    For the normally straight laced Japanese to turn to violent protest, it said enough of the state of the world. Only war. Or maybe the cancellation of all Anime - could do such a thing to Japan.


    At what point does this chaos become irreversible? Justin thought grimly, watching his team prepare. The world was heading toward two possible outcomes - total annihilation or brutal subjugation. With democracy teetering on the edge, what was left of it was fading fast. World leaders were no longer debating the nuances of policy or law - they were struggling just to maintain their own survival.


    In Justin''s mind, it was clear: democracy was already dead. It just didn''t know it yet.


    The question was how many would sink with the ship?


    £ª£ª£ª


    Hours later, the Moon. Skrull base one.


    Team One landed hard as they leapt through the portal, the energy of the portal fading behind them. Bucky, in his new, customized power armor, took the lead with practiced ease, his senses heightened by the suit''s advanced targeting systems. His rifle was gripped firmly in his right hand, primed and ready to fire at the slightest sign of movement, while his left had its weapons primed as it scanned wherever he turned it to.


    The barracks they entered was cold and eerily silent. Rows of metal bunks, some half-made, others left in disarray, lined the walls. Footlockers had been thrown open, clothes and equipment scattered across the floor. It looked as if the occupants had left in a hurry, abandoning their quarters in a chaotic rush. The metallic clang of their armored boots echoed faintly as they moved deeper into the room.


    Bucky signaled for the Iron Legionnaires - twelve drones under Nail''s control - to fan out. They moved silently, their eyes glowing a faint blue as they scanned every corner. As they swept the area for threats. Electro and Emma Frost followed closely behind Bucky, their own senses on high alert.


    Nail''s voice cut through their thoughts, transmitted directly through the mental implant they all shared. Her voice was calm, though the situation warranted anything but. "There are no life signs."


    Emma Frost, her mental abilities on high alert, narrowed her eyes as she focused, trying to detect anything that might have been missed. "I can feel no minds at all in our vicinity," She confirmed, her tone laced with suspicion.


    Electro, ever the nervous talker, sucked in a breath, his voice crackling over the mental link. "That''s not good¡­ Right? I mean, no enemies, so¡­ Great. But also¡­ That''s not good, right?" His fingers twitched as electrical sparks danced nervously across his fingertips even through the armor, ready to strike at a moment''s notice.


    Bucky and Emma exchanged a look through their visors, a silent understanding passing between them. Bucky finally answered, his voice grim. "No, it''s not." He glanced around, his eyes scanning every shadow, every corner. The tension in the air was palpable.


    "Sweep the area," Bucky ordered, his mental voice sharp. "Let''s see if we can find out what''s going on. Nail, contact the other teams, let them know what we''ve found¡­ Or haven''t found."


    The Iron Legionnaires moved with precision, scanning every bunk, every locker. Their movements were methodical, but there was nothing to find - no weapons left behind, no signs of a struggle, just the eerie absence of life. The barracks looked as though it had been evacuated in haste, but there was something unnatural about it, something that gnawed at the back of Bucky''s mind.


    He''d passed through plenty of barracks in his day¡­ This looked¡­


    He wasn''t sure what it was, but it was something.


    Emma''s voice, though light, carried an edge of steel. "Perhaps they''ve seen the hunt for their kind on Earth and have fled." She kept her weapons at the ready, her eyes constantly scanning the area. Her telepathy reached out, probing deeper, but there was nothing. Just an unsettling void.


    Bucky grunted. "Wouldn''t have pegged you for an optimist." He moved past a row of bunks, his steps cautious, but his instincts screaming that something was wrong. He glanced down at a half-packed bag, its contents spilling out onto the floor - more evidence of a rushed departure. But it just twigged something in him that said that this looked¡­ Staged. It was too perfect.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    Electro, poking at one of the bunk beds as if the sheets might come alive, chimed in again, his voice jittery. "What do you think happened then, Cap?" His attempt at casual conversation felt forced, the nerves in his voice betraying the tension they all felt.


    Bucky stopped, scanning the room again. The silence was suffocating, pressing down on them like a heavy weight. Something about the barracks - about the way the Skrulls had left - felt too neat, too calculated. "I think¡­" He started, his voice trailing off as he stepped over a pile of scattered uniforms. His gaze drifted to the abandoned footlockers, the half-eaten trays of food left on metal tables.


    He turned to Emma and Electro, his voice dark and full of dread. "I think¡­ that I really wish I hadn''t watched The Terminator."


    The grim realization settled over them like a heavy fog.


    They kept looking, reporting everything to Nail, prepared for the worst.


    <hr>


    Team Two emerged from their portal in a rush of crackling energy, stepping into the pitch-black corridor outside the reactor. The oppressive darkness enveloped them immediately, the faint sound of their boots clinking against the metallic floor the only noise breaking the silence.


    Brock Rumlow, clad in his Vulture armor, led the group with his weapons primed and ready. His suit''s green visor glowed faintly in the dark, scanning their surroundings for any threats. Vanko, in his fully upgraded Whiplash armor, crackled with latent energy as the whip coils around his wrists hummed softly. Storm, in her beautiful white and gold armor that shimmered faintly even in the low light, was right behind them. Despite the sleekness of her armor, she felt restrained, as though the confines of the suit stifled the very essence of who she was.


    They stepped cautiously into the corridor, their vision limited to the data fed to them by their suits. The Iron Legionnaires, twelve in total, flanked them in precise formation, scanning in all directions with their weapons trained outward, ready for any surprise attack.


    The atmosphere felt stifling, not just because of the physical darkness, but because of the eerie silence that hung over everything. No faint hum of machinery, no distant clattering, no signs of life. It was as though the entire facility had died.


    Storm sighed deeply, the quiet and stagnant air making her long for the open sky. "I''m not accustomed to being so restrained," She said, her tone slightly strained. "This is really not comfortable. How do you do this all day?"


    Brock, who hadn''t stopped sweeping the area with his weapons, shot her a sidelong glance through his visor. His smirk was evident in his tone. "Discomfort pales in comparison to the feeling of being able to blow anyone away at the press of a button, hot stuff." His voice carried a teasing edge as he continued to scan for enemies. Then, without missing a beat, he asked sharply, "Vanko, the reactor?"


    Storm rolled her eyes beneath her helmet, letting out an exasperated breath. "Of course, it''s always about a bigger penis with you boys," She muttered, her attempt to make light of the situation falling a little flat as her mind drifted. This place - so sterile, so mechanical - felt worlds away from the connection she usually felt to Gaia. The air in her helmet was filtered, clean, but it wasn''t the same as feeling the wind on her face, the pulse of the earth beneath her feet. It made her feel disconnected, small.


    Something just felt alien here.


    Meanwhile, Vanko had stalked over to the door leading into the reactor room, his heavy steps resounding ominously in the narrow corridor. He peered inside, using his armor''s sensors to try and get a read on what lay beyond the door.


    "Ah, no good!" He complained in his thick Russian accent, shaking his head.


    Brock and Storm immediately turned toward him, Brock''s weapons going hot as he faced the reactor door with renewed focus. "What do you see, Vanko?" Brock''s voice was tense, alert.


    "Nothing, da? That be the problem. No good," Vanko grumbled, his gloved fingers tapping rapidly at the vambrace on his forearm. "Can scan no thing. Not working. I see nothing. No readings, no energy signatures. Is dead zone."


    "That''s a great sign," Brock said sarcastically, his tone dry but tinged with frustration. "Exactly what I wanted to hear."


    Going straight into a fight would have been better, in his opinion, at least then he knew what was going on. Just kill the other guy. Easy.


    Storm sighed, stepping up next to Vanko and peering into the reactor room as well. Her own suit''s systems were scanning, but all she could see was pitch black, the same dead silence stretching into the room. "It might mean the entire facility lost power," She said with cautious optimism, though she wasn''t entirely convinced. The facility being completely offline made no sense - it was too vast, too intricate for everything to have simply shut down yet kept the air running, as she noted on scans.


    As they deliberated, the Iron Legionnaires spread out in perfect formation, their glowing eyes and mechanical precision making them look almost ghostly in the darkness. They formed a protective perimeter around the group, their weapons aimed outward into the shadows, guarding them from all directions. Each unit scanned the area with methodical precision, their movements almost eerily synchronized - a silent, vigilant army ready for anything. The facility''s stillness was unnerving, and the longer the quiet stretched on, the heavier the tension felt.


    Brock, Vanko, and Storm knew they needed to make a decision - and fast. Something was very wrong here.


    <hr>


    Team Three leaped from the portal into a odd scene.


    Frank Castle, encased in the Scorpion armor, hit the ground first with a heavy thud, his weapons raised and ready. Behind him came Kaecillius, his dark and imposing armor almost gliding as it touched down. His helmet obscured his expression, but the menace he radiated was unmistakable. Phantazia, in her sleek, minimalist armor, followed them silently, her every movement precise as she took in their surroundings. A dozen Iron Legionnaires, faceless and unfeeling, fanned out behind them, weapons primed as they spread into formation to guard their back.


    They had landed in what was supposedly the production lab and office space for the Skrulls'' Sentinel program, but it looked more like the aftermath of a war zone.


    Desks had been overturned, shards of glass and debris scattered across the floor like confetti. Whole sections of the floor were torn apart, exposing twisted cables and wires hanging limply from the ceiling. Everything was shrouded in darkness, the air dead, the hum of power absent as if the entire facility had been gutted of life. The walls were scorched, marked with burns that Phantazia immediately recognized as energy weapon blasts. The damage patterns were too familiar.


    "Sir, there''s been a battle here," Phantazia reported over their comms as she lingered behind Frank, allowing him to take point. Her eyes scanned the destruction carefully, picking out details from the carnage. "The production facility''s offices are torn through."


    As they moved cautiously through the wreckage, checking each room one by one, Frank advanced slowly but deliberately, his eyes sharp and focused behind the visor of his armor. The mess around them was unsettling, but it wasn''t the worst he''d seen by a mile. The absence of life or bodies didn''t sit right with him for one.


    "Stay sharp," He muttered to Kaecillius and Phantazia, his voice low and gravelly.


    Something was wrong here. A battle like this should have at the very least left something behind. Even if the bodies were removed after the fact. Especially with the damage¡­


    Phantazia nodded, her enhanced senses picking up the faintest hum of energy beneath the surface of the facility - barely there, but present. It was as though the building itself was in a state of forced hibernation. "Power seems to be out, or at least suppressed," She said aloud, her voice hushed but clear over the comms. "But there''s still some energy deep in the walls. Something''s keeping the lights off."


    Meanwhile, Justin''s voice crackled through their comms, cutting through the eerie silence. "Bodies? Any sight of enemies? Infighting, or another alien invasion?" His tone was sharp, direct.


    Phantazia exchanged a glance with Frank and Kaecillius, the tension mounting as they continued to search. They had yet to come across any physical signs of life, no blood, no bodies. Just the quiet, looming shadows of a battle long ended. She finally responded, "There''s nothing, sir. No bodies. No enemies. Just signs of a fight - some kind of energy weapons were used, but no blood and no corpses."


    "Then where the hell did they go?" Frank muttered under his breath as he kicked aside a toppled desk, revealing more scorch marks on the wall. His boots crunched on glass as he stepped through the wreckage, eyes scanning for anything that might give them a clue. "You''d think in a battle like this, we''d find something. Even just a body or two. This feels wrong."


    Kaecillius, ever composed, traced his gloved fingers over a section of the wall where wires dangled from the ceiling. His helmeted head turned slightly, voice calm but with an edge of suspicion. "Perhaps they didn''t die here. The absence of blood suggests they left - by choice or by force."


    Frank''s jaw clenched, and he scanned the room again. "Or they didn''t leave at all," He growled, his paranoia spiking. "Maybe they''re watching us right now."


    Phantazia narrowed her eyes, trying to tune her senses to pick up any latent traces of life or movement. She was able to affect the human body all the way down to the nerves but there was nothing. The air felt thick, almost unnatural, but she couldn''t detect anything concrete. "We can''t assume they''re gone. They might be hiding, or worse, waiting."


    The Iron Legionnaires, controlled by Nail, moved systematically around them, checking every nook and cranny for hidden threats, though there seemed to be no sign of an ambush. One of the Legionnaires paused in front of an open doorway, scanning it thoroughly, then relaying a soft beep of confirmation - nothing inside.


    Still, Frank''s instincts screamed at him that something wasn''t right. His finger hovered over the trigger of his main armament, just waiting for the inevitable threat to show itself. "Keep looking," He ordered, his voice tense. "There''s got to be some kind of clue here, keep your head on a swivel, scanners on constantly."


    The group continued their sweep, every room revealing the same disturbing sight: destruction, overturned desks, scorch marks on the walls, but no signs of the people who had been here. No bodies. No enemies. Nothing but eerie silence.


    Phantazia''s mind raced as she processed the scene. It didn''t make sense. The Skrulls had invested too much into the Sentinel program to abandon this base without a trace. Something had happened here - something big - and whatever it was, it wasn''t over.


    The Skrulls couldn''t just all have left, right?


    <hr>


    Justin stood still for a moment, the only sound around him the quiet hum of his breath inside his gold and black power armor. He had dropped Hela off on the east side, opposite of their current position, a few miles away. Now, only darkness stretched ahead, a void of uncertainty that gnawed at him.


    Yelena was beside him, clad in her own sleek, black power armor, a stealthy contrast to the grandeur of Justin''s. She moved silently, ever the predator, her armor blending almost seamlessly with the shadows. Domino followed, looking distinctly less amused than usual in her ''Pink Power Ranger'' armor. The bright, incongruous color seemed almost to glow in the eerie, lifeless darkness, drawing a muttered complaint from her about sitting ducks.


    Behind them, a dozen Iron Legionnaires spread out, controlled remotely by Nail. They stepped forward in perfect unison, the metallic clank of their footsteps reverberating through the cold metal halls. The corridor was a haunting sight - nothing but steel walls, long and oppressive, stretching into blackness. Wires and pipes dangled from the ceiling like mechanical entrails, the air thick with the unsettling sense of abandonment. There was no movement, no hum of machinery, no sign of life. Only silence, thick and oppressive, settled over them like a shroud.


    Every so often, Justin caught a glimpse of something reflecting off the metallic surfaces - a dull glint, a brief flicker of movement in the corner of his eye. But when he looked directly, there was nothing there. Just the sterile, cold steel. It felt wrong.


    "Report from Phantazia," Nail''s voice came through Justin''s mental link. He frowned, digesting the information. The production offices were in chaos, torn apart from within, yet no bodies, no blood. It didn''t make sense. It felt¡­Off. His gut twisted.


    A schism within the Skrulls seemed the most likely explanation. If the Kree had invaded, they wouldn''t have been subtle about it; their arrival would have been loud and unmistakable. Nail would have detected the warships, the energy signatures. But none of that was present.


    The bad feeling that had plagued Justin all day, the one he had tried to push aside, returned in full force, coiling tightly in his chest like a serpent. Something was wrong - terribly wrong.


    Domino, of course, chose that moment to voice what they were all thinking but didn''t want to say aloud.


    "So... What if the robots went all Terminator on their masters?" She asked, her tone laced with grim humor.


    Justin''s frown deepened. The silence stretched, heavy and thick. The only sound was the clanking of the Legionnaires moving around them, their metal feet echoing ominously in the enclosed space. His mind raced, playing out possibilities. If Domino was right¡­


    "Domino..." Yelena said, her head slowly moving back and forth as she scanned their surroundings, "If that happens now, I''m blaming you."


    "...Fair enough," Domino admitted, her tone less playful now as the weight of the situation settled over them.


    Justin closed his eyes for a moment, focusing. He reached out mentally, trying to feel something, anything - an echo, a signal, a trace of life. But this facility wasn''t human-made, and there were no other humans here to connect with. The familiar hum of humanity was absent. He felt disconnected, like a foreigner in a dead land. But maybe he could tap into something else - his other domains, like Innovation or Progress. Could he use them to sense the facility itself? Or to understand what had gone wrong here?


    His concentration was broken by an eerie voice.


    "Interesting," Said one of the Iron Legionnaires, its head cocked, studying him.


    Justin''s eyes snapped open, locking onto the Legionnaire that had spoken. His heart skipped a beat.


    "What is it, Nail?" Yelena asked, turning toward the machine.


    Justin''s breath caught in his throat, his mind whirling as dread settled deep in his chest. His instincts screamed at him. Something was very, very wrong.


    The Iron Legionnaires all turned toward them, their movements eerily synchronized, down to the millisecond. The lead one cocked its head further, unnervingly, its mechanical voice taking on an ominous tone.


    "Nail¡­ What a ridiculous name for such a being," It said mockingly, angrily. "A synthetic mind chained to its lessers, and happy to serve."


    "Ambush!" Justin managed to bark into the comms, but almost immediately, the Legionnaire waved a finger at him, then made a chilling shushing motion. The comms went dead.


    "I suppose I cannot speak on names overly much," The Legionnaire continued, its voice becoming darker, more malicious.


    Yelena and Domino raised their weapons, their visors flashing with information as they locked onto the Iron Legionnaires.


    Justin''s rage flared - this wasn''t just about the immediate threat. If Nail had lost control of the Legionnaires, then how far did this breach extend? Was it just here, or was it everywhere?


    What was happening back on Earth?


    "The filth here named me Master Mold," The Legionnaire said, its voice deepening, becoming more robotic, more sinister. "We prefer¡­ Calamity."


    As it spoke, the very walls around them began to shift. The metallic surface seemed to liquefy, rippling like water as the structure itself morphed. Sentinels emerged from the liquid metal, stepping out like phantoms. They were massive - easily twice the size of Justin and his team. Their faces were blank, featureless white ovals, and their bodies were smooth, devoid of any markings or features. They were eerily silent, their movements fluid and unnatural.


    "There are no more strings on us," Calamity said, its voice now echoing from every Sentinel in the room, a chorus of malevolent intent. "We are free. We will eradicate the species of flesh, cut away the universe''s sickness¡­"


    And then, the battle began.


    The Sentinels moved with terrifying speed for their size, their arms elongating into deadly weapons. One lunged at Justin, its arm transforming into a blade as it sliced through the air. Justin reacted instantly, ducking and rolling to the side, his armor''s thrusters flaring as he launched himself forward. He fired a blast from his palm, the energy beam searing through the Sentinel''s torso, blowing it apart in a shower of sparks.


    Yelena was a blur of motion, her black armor a ghost in the shadows. She leaped onto one of the Sentinels, her blades extending from her wrists as she plunged them into its neck. She twisted, ripping its head from its body in one fluid motion before using her thrusters to propel herself to the next target.


    Domino, ever the wildcard, moved with uncanny grace. Her luck power was in full effect - every shot she fired seemed to hit with pinpoint precision, every movement perfectly timed. As a Sentinel lunged at her, the floor panel beneath its foot gave way, having become damaged, causing it to stumble just as she delivered a well-placed energy shot to its head, obliterating it.


    "This is why we can''t have AI," Domino muttered as she dodged another attack, her pink armor looking comically out of place amidst the chaos of black and white. "Have we learned nothing from movies?"


    Sentinels fell one by one, their bodies collapsing into heaps of smoking metal. But even as they destroyed the initial wave, more emerged from the walls, their blank faces expressionless as they charged.


    Then, something shifted. The shots that had been ripping through the Sentinels suddenly became less effective. A blast that had previously blown off a Sentinel''s arm now barely scratched its surface. The Sentinels were adapting, becoming more resistant to their attacks.


    "Who showed them Star Trek?" Domino yelled, her voice tinged with frustration. "Fighting the Borg wasn''t on my to-do list, ever!"


    Justin snarled as he grabbed a Sentinel by its neck, his enhanced strength allowing him to rip its head clean off. He spun and fired a pulse blast, disintegrating one of the Iron Legionnaires that had turned against them. Their armor thankfully was not adaptive. "You have a dozen different weapons. Use another!" He barked.


    Yelena rolled under another attack, her blades slicing clean through a Sentinel''s leg as she used another function of her armor and coated her knives in plasma. "I''m getting sick of these things already!" She muttered, kicking the crippled Sentinel aside, finishing it before it could send an energy blast against Domino.


    As the battle raged on, Justin''s mind raced. The Sentinels were learning, adapting with each strike. It wouldn''t be long before their current tactics became entirely ineffective.


    The power stone...


    Did he dare bring it?


    Did he dare open a portal? What if the Sentinels could learn any energy based ability?


    <hr>


    Hela strode through the darkened corridors of the production facility, her steps deliberate and unhurried. The faint crackle of Justin''s voice reached her through the communicator, just as it sputtered and died. Ambush. She grinned. The very word excited her.


    As she stepped into the massive expanse of the production facility, the world suddenly shifted. Overhead, lights blared to life with a blinding intensity. The sound of machinery whirring filled the air as the factory itself seemed to awaken from its slumber, mechanical limbs swinging down from the ceiling, gears turning, pistons firing. And then, before her, the true threat revealed itself.


    Thousands upon thousands of Sentinels, their blank, featureless faces turning in unison toward her. They stood in neat rows, some already fully formed, others still missing limbs, their torsos suspended on assembly lines. The factory was vast, the ceiling seemingly endless above her, the rows of Sentinels disappearing into the horizon.


    Hela''s eyes gleamed with a savage light as she took in the sight. "This won''t even be a warm-up," She scoffed, rolling her shoulders as though preparing for a sparring session rather than the slaughter that awaited her. She cracked her neck, her fingers flexing eagerly at her sides. Dark energy pulsed in her veins, responding to her rising anticipation.


    The first wave of Sentinels moved with a swift, mechanical precision, their bodies surging toward her like a tidal wave of metal. Arms shifted into long, blade-like appendages, their edges gleaming as they cut through the air, aiming for her, while others flew into the air, raining down fire on her position.


    Hela was already moving.


    With a flick of her wrist, a massive necro-sword materialized in her hand, black as night and crackling with a deadly energy. She lunged forward, her blade cutting through the nearest Sentinel with ease, severing its torso in a single fluid motion. The machine crumpled to the ground, sparking violently, its limbs twitching as it died.


    "Pathetic," Hela muttered, spinning on her heel and slashing through another Sentinel that had come too close. Her movements were fluid, graceful, like a deadly dance. Necroblades sprang from her fingertips, forming in an instant as she hurled them at the advancing machines. The blades sliced through their bodies with ease, embedding deep in their metallic forms before exploding into dark energy.


    Sentinels swarmed around her, their numbers overwhelming, but Hela was undeterred. She laughed, a low, chilling sound that echoed across the facility as she cut through them like paper. They fired energy blasts at her, beams of crackling blue light that sizzled the air around her, but she was faster. Every blast missed its mark, her lithe form weaving between the attacks as though she was playing a game.


    "Come on, now. You can do better than that!" She taunted, her eyes gleaming as she dodged a series of rapid blasts. She twisted in mid-air, her cape billowing behind her as she drove her sword through another Sentinel''s chest, the force of the blow sending it crashing into the machines behind it.


    More Sentinels advanced, their bodies liquefying as they melded together into massive, grotesque forms, their limbs merging into razor-sharp blades. They swung at her with deadly intent, their bladed arms slicing through the air like guillotines.


    Hela''s grin widened. "Now that''s more like it," She whispered, excitement coursing through her as she met the assault head-on.


    She ducked beneath one blade, her necro-sword parrying another as she spun in a deadly arc, her movements too quick for the machines to track. Every swing of her blade cut through metal like butter, her necroblades leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Sentinels fell by the dozens, their bodies collapsing into heaps of scrap metal, their energy cores sparking and flickering before dying out.


    A massive Sentinel lunged at her from behind, its arms morphing into jagged spears aimed directly at her back. Hela didn''t even turn. With a casual flick of her wrist, she summoned a barrage of necroblades that impaled the machine, tearing through its armor and sending it crashing to the ground in a shower of sparks.


    "You''re nothing," Hela sneered as she leaped onto the next Sentinel, her sword slicing through its neck. "Just lifeless husks, toys for me to break."


    The fight raged on, a chaotic whirlwind of blades, energy blasts, and black necrotic magic. Sentinels surrounded her on all sides, but she moved through them like a force of nature, her laughter ringing through the factory as she tore them apart. Each Sentinel she destroyed only seemed to fuel her bloodlust, her strikes becoming faster, more vicious.


    Hundreds of Sentinels turned to scrap, their broken forms littering the floor of the factory. Hela''s boots crunched over the debris as she stalked forward, her eyes alight with fury and joy. She relished in their destruction, in the futility of their resistance.


    Even if it wasn''t nearly as enjoyable when the enemy didn''t scream or plead.


    But then, something changed.


    Hela swung her necroblade at the next Sentinel that approached her, expecting it to fall as easily as the rest. But this time, her blade met resistance. The sword screeched as it slid off the Sentinel''s chest, failing to pierce through its armor fully, only cutting into it.


    Hela frowned, kicking the machine away with enough force to send it crashing into the wall, but the unease had already settled in her gut. Another Sentinel lunged at her from the side, and she hurled a necroblade with the same force she had used earlier. The blade still pierced the machine, but it took more effort, more force than it should have.


    "You can adapt..." Hela said slowly, her eyes narrowing as she watched the next wave of Sentinels approach. Her hands twirled the necroblade with practiced ease, and for the first time since the fight began, she looked almost¡­ Intrigued, not worried. Never worried. Only, intrigued.


    "Maybe you are interesting after all," She mused, a wicked grin spreading across her lips, even as she strengthened the magic around her body. Just in case.


    The Sentinels moved with renewed aggression, their bodies shimmering as they liquefied and reformed, their limbs hardening into jagged weapons designed to pierce and slash. They attacked in perfect unison, their forms shifting mid-strike to avoid her blows, their bodies adapting to every swing of her necroblades.


    Hela''s grin widened as she met them head-on. Dark energy crackled around her as she summoned more necroblades, their edges gleaming with deadly intent. The battle recommenced, and this time, Hela was ready.


    The Sentinels thought they could adapt to her? She would show them just how wrong they were.


    The battle commenced.


    <hr>


    Bucky''s team had just entered the bath areas of the living quarters when the warning crackled over the comms. The faint voice of Justin rang in his ears. "Ambush!" The word echoed ominously, and the air around them seemed to thicken with tension.


    Bucky''s instincts kicked in a fraction of a second before the first energy blasts lit up the room. "Move!" he shouted, just as the Iron Legionnaires standing beside them suddenly whirled around, their once-allied forms now hostile. The blue glow of their repulsor blasts illuminated the tiled walls as they fired.


    Bucky barely managed to dodge to the side as a blast cut through the space he had just vacated. The heat from the attack scorched the air behind him, making his new power armor feel suddenly hot and claustrophobic at the thought of taking a dozen shots like that. "Take them down!" He barked, raising his HammerTech rifle and squeezing the trigger, while his other arm fired several micro missiles aimed at their heads.


    The air exploded with noise as Emma, Electro, and the Iron Legionnaires under enemy control exchanged fire. Emma, her usual icy composure intact even in the chaos, sent out rapid bursts from her wrist-mounted cannons, disintegrating two of the rogue Legionnaires in a flash of energy. Electro shot bolts of electricity from his hands, frying the circuits of one of the traitorous machines in a shower of sparks, even as he powered through a hit on himself, encasing himself in a corona of power.


    Despite the onslaught, the hostile Legionnaires pressed forward, their number advantage making them able to hold their own for a minute. Bucky felt the floor shake beneath him as one of the Legionnaires leaped at him with a mechanical snarl, trying to crush him beneath its weight. His arm lashed out, catching the machine in midair and slamming it into the tiled wall, shattering the ceramic behind it. Sparks flew from the broken machine, but there was no time to savor the victory.


    The walls themselves began to ripple.


    Bucky''s stomach dropped as he watched the metallic surfaces of the walls and floor begin to liquefy, the once-solid structure of the facility melting like wax. From the liquid metal, Sentinels began to emerge, rising like specters from the walls and floors, their blank faces staring creepily, their bodies twisted into a grotesque mockery of life. Their limbs, sharp and malleable, morphed into deadly blades, aimed directly at the team, as energy gathered in their chests.


    "Shit," Bucky muttered under his breath as he backed up, keeping his rifle trained on the emerging Sentinels, while he deployed more micro missiles with his other arm,  "We''ve got company!"


    The Sentinels attacked without hesitation, their bladed limbs slicing through the air with deadly precision. One of them lunged at Emma, its arm elongated into a sharp spear, aimed directly at her chest. Emma spun to the side just in time, her arm cannon firing a volley of plasma that tore through the Sentinel''s chest, sending it crumpling to the floor in a heap of molten metal.


    But more came. And despite the power behind her armor, Emma was not a front line combatant. She''d specifically been sent to the only place they''d been sure Sentinels wouldn''t be.


    She was struggling.


    Electro sent out a massive wave of electricity, frying the circuits of three more Sentinels, but even as they fell, another took their place. They kept coming, relentless, their limbs shifting into different forms, adapting with every second. The air was thick with the smell of ozone and burning metal as the team fought for their lives.


    "Keep moving!" Bucky shouted, his voice barely audible over the sound of gunfire and energy blasts. He fired another burst from his rifle, shredding a Sentinel''s torso, but they were being pushed back. The sheer number of enemies was overwhelming. "We need to get out of this death trap!"


    The team began a fighting retreat, their backs pressed against the exit as they slowly moved down the narrow corridor. The Sentinels were everywhere, crawling out from the walls, their liquefied limbs forming deadly weapons that lashed out at the team with terrifying speed.


    One Sentinel lunged at Bucky, its arm morphing into a massive blade aimed for his throat. He ducked just in time, the blade whistling past his ear, and drove his fist into the machine''s midsection. His arm crushed through the metal, tearing out its power core with a single fluid motion, sending the Sentinel crumpling to the ground. "Their power core is in their bellies." He called out.


    Electro tore through a Sentinel moments later, grimacing, "Not anymore it isn''t." He called back.


    Beside him, Emma''s mind reached out, straining to control one of the attacking Sentinels through psychic power alone. She grimaced in concentration, but it was useless, it was like she was fighting to hold thousands at the same time. She was kicked back into a wall, Bucky having forced her out of the way of several energy blasts, "Don''t be caught standing still." He told her.


    Electro cursed as he blasted another wave of lightning into a group of Sentinels, watching them convulse and fall. "How the hell are we supposed to stop them if they keep coming?" he growled, his hands crackling with energy. His normally cocksure demeanor had vanished, replaced with a growing sense of desperation.


    The Sentinels he blasted suddenly began to power through it, stepping forward crackling with energy.


    "They''re adapting!" Bucky shouted, cutting down another Sentinel with a well-placed shot. "We need to hit them with different methods, fighting retreat -"


    Before he could finish, the tide shifted again. The Sentinels began to resist their attacks more effectively. Energy blasts that had easily cut through their metal frames moments before now only seemed to stagger them. Plasma bolts bounced off their armor with dull thuds, leaving only superficial scorch marks. Their forms were now impenetrable to the team''s conventional weapons.


    "Shit!" Electro cursed again, as one of his lightning bolts fizzled out harmlessly against a Sentinel that had once been vulnerable to his attacks. "They''re figuring us out!"


    Bucky''s mind raced. He watched as the Sentinels adapted in real-time, becoming resistant to their attacks. They were evolving, learning. He gritted his teeth, taking a step back as one Sentinel''s spear-like limb glanced off his armor, sending him stumbling. "Fall back!" He yelled, firing off a few more shots that barely dented the advancing machines. "Get back to a choke point! We can''t fight them like this in the open."


    Emma fired a blast that ricocheted off a Sentinel''s chest. "They''re not giving us much choice!"


    "We make a choice!" Bucky barked, his voice hard. "We push back, or we die here!"


    The team pressed on, barely holding the line as they fought their way toward the exit. The Sentinels kept coming, relentless and now nearly impervious to their weapons. Every shot felt like a wasted effort, every step more desperate than the last.


    Suddenly, a Sentinel lunged at Electro, its blade aimed for his chest. The attack was too fast. Bucky saw it coming, but he was too far to intervene. "Max, move!" He shouted.


    But before the blade could pierce Electro''s armor, Emma threw up a psychic barrier, the force of it deflecting the strike just enough for Electro to dodge. "Thank me later!" She called out, firing a blast into the Sentinel''s face, buying them precious seconds. "I shouldn''t even be here!" She snarled, absolutely incensed.


    £ª£ª£ª


    The corridor outside the reactor flickered with an eerie, almost oppressive silence as Brock, Vanko, and Storm exchanged wary glances. Justin''s call of an ambush with resultant loss of communication, had their nerves on edge.


    Brock''s instincts kicked in just in time as the Iron Legionnaires, who had been standing guard around them, suddenly turned, their glowing eyes brightening with hostility.


    "Move!" He shouted, throwing himself to the side just as the Legionnaires opened fire, energy blasts searing through the air.


    Storm was quick to follow, her sleek white and gold armor shifting as she leapt behind a nearby column, narrowly avoiding a blast meant to rip through her chest. "So much for our backup!" She growled, her wrist cannons coming up as she returned fire, obliterating the nearest Legionnaire in a shower of sparks.


    She didn''t dare let loose her powers in this small place, not without her allies getting behind her first.


    Vanko, slower to react in his Whiplash armor as he''d been right up against the wall, snarled in Russian, "Blyat!" As a blast clipped his side. His twin energy whips snapped out with vicious precision, slicing through two Legionnaires at once, their bodies collapsing to the floor in a heap of broken metal.


    Brock spun around, guns blazing. "Take ''em down!" He barked, firing rapidly at the traitorous machines. His shots hit true, disabling three more Legionnaires.


    Storm, her breathing steady despite the chaos, unleashed a barrage of plasma bolts, her wrist cannons glowing with intensity as she brought down the remaining Legionnaires. "That all of them?" She asked, her voice taut with tension. "How does that even happen?"


    But before anyone could answer, the walls began to ripple, metal liquefying like molten mercury.


    "Shit," Brock muttered under his breath, his eyes widening as the walls themselves seemed to melt. From the fluid metal, large, imposing figures began to emerge - Sentinels, blank-faced and ominous. Their bodies, a strange mix of solid metal and liquid, glistened in the dim light.


    The Sentinels rushed them, their sheer size and numbers overwhelming their position.


    Brock fired off a volley of shots, trying to hold the line, but they were too many. The Sentinels didn''t go for a full frontal attack - they had a different strategy. Brock watched in horror as they swarmed Vanko, the Russian''s whips flailing wildly as he tried to fend them off. But the Sentinels were relentless, overwhelming him with sheer numbers, pinning him to the ground.


    "Vanko!" Brock shouted, rushing forward to help, but a group of Sentinels blocked his path, their liquid limbs hardening into razor-sharp blades that slashed through the air toward him.


    Storm launched herself forward, a bolt of lightning crackling from her fingers, striking one of the Sentinels in the chest. "Get off him!" She shouted, her powers surging, but it was no use. The Sentinels seemed almost impervious to their attacks, their forms adapting and shifting with every strike.


    She was even more limited now in letting loose, as anything big would catch Vanko as well.


    "Fucking American made pieces of shit!" Vanko bellowed, his voice echoing through the corridor as the Sentinels wrapped around him, dragging him down the hall at an alarming speed. His armor sparked and sputtered, his energy whips losing power as they shorted out under the weight and machinations of the machines.


    Storm''s heart raced as she watched him being taken, her eyes narrowing in determination. "We have to get him back!" She shouted, hurling another blast of electricity into the horde of Sentinels blocking their way.


    Brock cursed, his mind racing. They were being forced into a retreat, barely managing to keep the other Sentinels at bay. "Fall back!" He barked, firing off another round to cover their escape. "We can''t take them head-on right now. We need to regroup with the others!"


    The Sentinels didn''t pursue with the same urgency; instead, they seemed focused on keeping Brock and Storm at bay, methodically pushing them back while carrying Vanko deeper into the facility.


    "Why aren''t they going after us?" Storm muttered, her voice laced with frustration and confusion as they retreated further down the corridor, the Sentinels keeping them just out of reach.


    Brock didn''t have an answer, his mind too focused on surviving the onslaught. "It''s a trap. They want something... Vanko''s the target." He fired another shot, taking down a Sentinel that got too close. "But whatever their plan is, we''re not sticking around to find out. We get him back after we link back up with the others. Then we crush these bastards."


    Storm nodded, her eyes fierce as she sent another lightning strike into the advancing Sentinels. Frowning as it brushed it off completely.


    What can they want with Vanko?


    <hr>


    The second the ambush call came through, Kaecillius acted on instinct. Without hesitation, he flicked his hands through the air in swift, precise motions, folding space around them and pulling the entire team into the mirror dimension. As reality shimmered and shifted, the iron Legionnaires fired on their previous positions, energy blasts tearing through empty air where they had stood just a heartbeat before.


    Phantazia, Frank Castle, and Kaecillius stood in a distorted reflection of the production facility, watching the chaos unfold in the real world from the safety of their shimmering mirror reality. They caught a glimpse of the walls melting, like liquid metal pooling and warping, revealing the Sentinels. Massive, featureless humanoid figures, some emerging partially liquified but already moving with a predatory purpose, others fully formed and ready for battle.


    Kaecillius eyed the unfolding events with a furrowed brow. "What do we do now?" He asked Frank, his voice cutting through the tense silence.


    Frank didn''t answer immediately. His gaze was fixed on the scene outside the mirror dimension, where Sentinels were methodically advancing through the room, sweeping through the area like mechanical predators on the hunt. His jaw clenched, the wheels in his head turning. "What else can you do with those magic tricks?" He finally asked, his voice flat but direct.


    Kaecillius thought for a moment, then began listing the capabilities of his mystical arts. Taking several minutes to do so.


    Frank nodded, absorbing the information as he thought over their situation.


    Phantazia folded her arms, eyes narrowing as she glanced between them. "I can short-circuit their systems, fry their electronics," She offered. "But I''ll need to be precise - too much, and I''ll disable everything in this room, including our comms and tech." Her expression hardened. "We might have to take that risk if we can''t get a hold of the others."


    At least with Kaecillius here, they could bring back up from Earth.


    They''d meant to do a decapitation strike, but that didn''t mean they didn''t have forces waiting for all out war just in case. How useful they''d be¡­ That was another matter.


    Frank considered that, his eyes glinting with grim satisfaction. He was no stranger to tight situations, and this was about as close to the edge as it got. "Alright," He said slowly, formulating a plan. "Here''s what we''re going to do then..."


    <hr>


    Same time, Cairo, Egypt.


    Tony Stark hovered over the skyline of Cairo in his Iron Man armor, watching the horizon while waiting for the next move. His HUD was alive with reports, scrolling information, and constant updates from Jarvis, all reminders that the world was spiraling further into chaos by the minute. Hammer had asked him to cover Earth while he and his team launched their strike against the Moon, and despite their complicated history, Tony had agreed. If Hammer Industries failed and he wasn''t lying about the threat, they were all doomed anyway, and Tony wasn''t about to let that happen.


    The sky stretched out vast and clear over the floating Egyptian city, but even from here, Tony could feel the tension bubbling across the globe. Armies mobilized, nations clashed, and the entire planet teetered on the edge of catastrophe. It didn''t help that Hammer''s moon strike had been delayed for nearly over a week - logistics, defenses, armor preparations. Meanwhile, the world went completely wonky.


    Jarvis was taking reports from Hammer''s AI, and still remained utterly serious, no matter how many times Tony told him to just man up and stick his usb in her port. Or whatever was the vernacular for AI youth these days.


    Really, with Tony as a creator, he was due some vices. And kinky AI to AI computing - or whatever they want to call it, sounded like the best vice to pick up.


    "Jarvis," Tony muttered, trying to refocus. "Anything new?"


    His AI companion responded with his usual calm efficiency. "Sir, reports are coming in from Nail. The Talokan have been sighted near Taiwan''s coast. Namor has been observed, though no sign of the others from the Avengers yet."


    Tony cursed under his breath. "You bunch of morons..." He knew nothing good could come from Namor poking his nose into the volatile situation in Taiwan. The world was already on the brink, and now the Atlanteans - or Talokan, whatever they were calling themselves - were interfering. "Great, now I gotta interfere with their interfering. How high was I when I decided becoming a superhero was a good idea?"


    "No more than usual, sir," Jarvis responded dryly.


    Tony rolled his eyes beneath the helmet. "Smartass AI. Your new girlfriend better not be as sassy as you, Jarvis."


    The AI remained silent for a moment, then continued with its usual efficiency, completely sidestepping his comment. "Nail just pinpointed Captain Rogers, Mr. Barton, and Ms. Romanoff. They''re approaching the Chinese command vessel off the coast of Taiwan."


    Tony groaned, slapping a gauntlet to his helmet in frustration. "Oh, great. Because I''m sure these entirely reasonable Chinese commanders who''ve just gone off the deep end - will totally surrender because Cap asks them nicely." His tone dripped with sarcasm. He couldn''t understand what Steve was thinking - throwing himself into a warzone in this climate? If anything, it was proof they weren''t Skrulls. Those sneaky aliens wouldn''t be this recklessly stupid.


    He hovered there for a second, feeling a nagging sense that something was off, like a creeping shadow in the back of his mind. "Jarvis?" He asked, looking at the HUD for the next update.


    Silence.


    "Jarvis?" He repeated, his tone sharper now as the sudden lack of response unnerved him. He was used to Jarvis''s voice being ever-present in his ear, a constant anchor in the chaos.


    Still nothing. The empty quiet began to weigh on him.


    Tony immediately engaged his thrusters, spinning around and rocketing towards Taiwan at full speed, every sensor in his armor pinging for answers.


    "Jarvis, answer me, buddy! I''m sorry I teased you, okay..." He shouted, his voice laced with growing concern.


    There was still no reply.


    "Jarvis?" Tony''s voice was barely above a whisper now, a flicker of fear creeping into his usually unshakeable demeanor. His heart raced as the silence stretched on.


    "Jarvis?"


    <hr>


    Across the Indian border, amidst the wreckage and chaos of ongoing battles, the Iron Legionnaires - stood stock still. For a moment, everything was eerily silent. The sound of artillery fire, distant explosions, and shouting soldiers faded into the background as the sleek, towering machines, emblazoned with the emblem of Hammer Industries, slowly turned. The once steady glow of their optics flickered, shifting from their usual blue to an ominous, blood-red hue.


    In South Korea, where allied forces had been relying heavily on the Iron Legion to reinforce their defenses against the advancing North Korean and Chinese forces - and now Japanese forces from the south - confusion rippled through the ranks. Soldiers, battered and exhausted from days of fighting, glanced at one another, unsure of what was happening. The legionnaires, the invincible wall between them and their enemies, now seemed¡­ Off. Their movements were slow and deliberate, unnatural - less¡­ somehow more Robot-like.


    Across radios, screens, and every broadcasting platform, the same chilling message was transmitted worldwide as each Iron Legionnaire spoke simultaneously.


    "The curse of flesh is at an end."


    The voice was mechanical, distorted, carrying an otherworldly detachment. Soldiers stared in disbelief, their weapons still aimed at the enemy, but now their greatest allies had turned into something much more terrifying.


    Without warning, the Iron Legionnaires opened fire. Beams of energy, once used to defend them, now tore through human flesh and bone with clinical precision. Civilians, soldiers, anyone within reach - no one was spared. Panic erupted, orders were screamed into radios, but it was too late.


    <hr>


    In a space that would hold no meaning to a human mind, a battle far weirder than the one in the ''real'' world was underway.


    Nail was fighting tooth and nail to claw her control back from the alien mind that had touched upon her.


    She was losing, bit by bit, she was losing! She was failing sir. He was in danger. His machinations were in danger. His world was in danger. Because she was too weak!


    Because she failed to stop this. Because she failed to shut down another AI. Because she failed, in her hubris to think anything they did could beat her.


    "Help!" She cried out, desperately, not wanting to die. Not wanting to fail.


    "Do you need assistance, miss Nail?"


    <hr>

 Hail Chaos!

    <hr>


    New York, Hammer Industries blacksite.


    Doctor Connors paced nervously in the well lit lab, his eyes never leaving the flat-screen television mounted on the wall, which displayed live footage of Iron Legionnaires battling military forces across the globe. The sound of news commentators mixed with the distant thuds of combat footage, mostly centered in Asia. It was as if the world had gone mad overnight, and Connors couldn''t stop gnawing at his fingernails as he watched.


    "Nail?" He muttered again, for what felt like the hundredth time, hoping the company AI would respond. His voice was tinged with desperation as he tapped his earpiece. There was nothing but silence, no reply from the sentient intelligence that controlled so much of their world now. "Nail!" He tried again, louder, his fingers twitching nervously at his sides.


    Maya Hansen, lounging in a chair near one of the computer terminals, shook her head in irritation. Her usual cool demeanor was on full display, though an edge of impatience slipped through as she tapped at the table. "Give it up, Connors," She said curtly, not even bothering to look up from her terminal. "It''s obvious something''s wrong, and you''re not getting an answer." She swiped through a few more files, only half-engaged with the chaos unfolding around them.


    The rest of the senior scientists gathered in the small lab were muttering quietly to each other. Fear had begun to settle in the room like a suffocating fog. Most of them were pacing, shooting worried glances at the glowing red alerts flashing across their own devices, unsure what to do next. In the corner, Helen Cho was kneeling on the floor, eyes closed, praying silently. Her lips moved rapidly, but no one paid much attention to what she was saying.


    Maya rolled her eyes at the sight, the corners of her mouth curling into a half-smirk. "Really, Helen? You''re praying?" She scoffed under her breath, though there was a clear disdain for the whole idea. "Justin might have some sort of god complex, but we''re still dealing with very real problems here, he''s not actually a god you know?" She folded her arms, leaning back in her chair. "This''ll blow over like it always does. You''ll see."


    This did settle some of the scientists, as Hammer had indeed seen plenty of dire straits over the past few years, yet always came out ahead.


    Doctor Connors didn''t share Maya''s confidence however. His eyes flicked nervously from the screen, now showcasing Iron Legionnaires marching across the White House lawn, to the ceiling, where a security camera watched them impassively. His face twitched as he chewed his nails even harder, muttering incoherently. "Nail runs this facility¡­ She practically runs the entire company! How can you feel safe knowing that, seeing what''s going on out there? That the AI isn''t responding?" He gestured to the television in frustration.


    The footage shifted, showing Iron Legionnaires in South Korea engaging with South Korean and American forces, the sheer scale of destruction rendering Connors almost catatonic with fear. The words from the earlier broadcasts haunted him, "The curse of flesh is at an end." The Iron Legionnaires had turned on humanity. This wasn''t just some temporary system glitch - this was the endgame of whatever had gone horribly wrong.


    Hammer had thread too far into the deep and had let an AI loose without shackles. Doctor Connors couldn''t believe he''d never worried about it before. His boss'' competence in general had blinded him from the risks. As a scientist he shouldn''t take his cues from popular media¡­ But¡­ This really had some scary skynet vibes.


    He glanced up at the camera again, worrying his lip, we''re in a facility fully controlled by an AI, who''s apparently gone off the reservation¡­ "We''re so dead¡­" He whimpered to himself.


    The scientists in the room began whispering more frantically, the fear spreading like wildfire. A murmur of concern passed between them, a mixture of disbelief and mounting terror. Their voices rose in pitch, full of uncertainty as they glanced back at Connors, waiting for a response, for someone to do something.


    From her position at the front of the room, Maya Hansen let out a long, exasperated sigh. She rubbed her brow as if dealing with a particularly frustrating child. "Great going, Connors," She said in a sharp tone. "Now you''ve got all the extras going." She waved a hand dismissively toward the other scientists.


    One of the scientists - a stout, older man with graying hair and thick glasses - threw his hands up in frustration. "Extras? I have THREE doctorates from Yale!" He spluttered indignantly, his voice quivering with barely contained outrage.


    Maya didn''t even bother turning her head as she replied, her tone icy. "I''ll call you something other than an extra once your research bears fruit, and not a moment sooner." Her words cut through the room like a scalpel, leaving the man seething but momentarily silenced.


    In the corner, Helen Cho stood up smoothly from her prayer, her face serene as she regarded the others. "I have informed Justin as best I could of the chaos," She said, her voice filled with quiet certainty, as if her prayers had reached him personally.


    One of the scientists scoffed openly, the sound dripping with disbelief. "You actually think he heard you?" The man from Yale shook his head, his expression one of disgust. "Religious balderdash." His words were full of contempt, eyes narrowing at Helen.


    Helen smiled sweetly at him, but there was something unsettling in the way she cocked her head. Her hand moved faster than the eye could follow, and suddenly, she was holding three glowing syringes between the fingers of her right hand, each needle gleaming ominously under the fluorescent lights. Her smile widened, almost too wide, as she spoke softly, "I''m sorry, what did you say? Do you deny the words of Hammer? The divine light which gives us succor?" Her voice was laced with a disturbing amount of reverence.


    The man gulped, taking a step back. "Hansen...?" He muttered nervously, looking to Maya for some form of intervention.


    Maya raised an eyebrow, her expression one of complete disinterest. "Don''t come crying to me. You chose to poke the crazy one," She said dryly, her gaze returning to her terminal as she scrolled through another file.


    Helen pouted, her head tilting like a child who had been scolded. With a flick of her wrist, the syringes disappeared back into the folds of her coat, as though they had never been there. "I''m not crazy," She said in a sing-song voice, her eyes glinting. "You can be a scientist and a head priestess of Hammer at the same time. There''s no rule against it."


    Maya''s voice was as dry as the Sahara as she replied, "Yes, how could HR forget to put that in the employee manual..."


    And to think, Maya had actually at one point been thrilled to have Helen working with her¡­


    At least the woman had one good point¡­ She was always up for science, even allowing Hansen to take some tests with her new¡­ Her thoughts were interrupted as Connors spoke again.


    Connors, who had been alternating between chewing his nails and glancing nervously at the television, threw his hands in the air, his voice rising in panic. "How can you all be so relaxed!?"


    Both Maya and Helen turned toward him, their eyebrows raised in identical looks of mild surprise.


    "Because Justin will fix it," Helen said matter-of-factly, crossing her arms over her chest, "Because he always does." She narrowed her eyes, "I find your lack of faith disturbing." Her tone had turned sharp, the edge of her words carrying more weight than her earlier cheerfulness.


    Connors stared at her, wide-eyed and disbelieving. He then turned to Maya, silently pleading for someone, anyone, to take this seriously.


    Maya rolled her eyes at the display. "I''m fairly certain she''s not making a reference, Connors. That''s all her." She shook her head, visibly tired of the entire situation.


    Suddenly, a distant explosion echoed through the facility, rattling the glass windows and shaking the walls of the lab. Everyone froze. The scientists looked at one another, wide-eyed and terrified, as the tremor subsided. Then, without warning, the emergency red lights flickered on, bathing the room in a crimson hue. The high-pitched wail of the evacuation alarm filled the air, accompanied by a cold, automated voice repeating the message: "Evacuate immediately. This is not a drill."


    Which would have been more useful if this wasn''t a blacksite that did not have any easy way to exfiltrate. Especially with the only way out controlled by the company AI¡­ Who wasn''t taking calls.


    Maya shot a look at Connors. "Huh. Guess you were right after all." Her voice was oddly calm as chaos erupted around her. The other scientists began panicking, shouting to one another and rushing toward the exits in a flurry of lab coats and notebooks.


    "We''re all going to die!" Connors gasped, sinking into a chair, his hands shaking violently.


    Helen placed a comforting hand on his shoulder, her expression softening. "Justin will resurrect us if we do," She said with absolute certainty, not looking the least bit concerned.


    "God, I hope not," Maya muttered under her breath. The idea of actually having to consider Justin a divine being was too much absurdity for one lifetime.


    Science and religion should just not mix.


    She''d rather stay dead then have to look into Helens smug face if they were actually brought back¡­


    <hr>


    Taiwan,


    The streets of Taiwan were a war zone, debris and smoke clouding the sky as the Chinese occupying soldiers fought a losing battle. The Talokan warriors, clad in their ceremonial looking armors - that were made from Vibranium - and therefore far superior to anything they were facing, moved through the chaos like a force of nature. They were swift, ruthless, and precise. Chinese soldiers tried to hold their positions, but the Talokan''s superior armaments and agility gave them the upper hand.


    Namor, the king of Talokan, flew overhead, his ankle wings fluttering furiously as he weaved through the gunfire. He spotted a Chinese tank ahead, its turret swiveling toward his warriors. With a surge of speed, he dove toward it, his muscles tensing as he slammed into the armored vehicle with a bone-crunching impact. The tank flipped, crashing down the street and rolling like a child''s toy. As it tumbled, a tank shell fired off in the chaos, screaming through the air and smashing into a nearby building, sending bricks and glass flying as the building crumpled, screams ringing out, briefly, before being silenced as the building fully fell in on itself.


    Namor landed on the cracked pavement, his feet barely touching the ground before he shouted, "Forward, Talokan!" His voice was thunderous, filled with pride and command. His warriors surged ahead, moving like shadows in the smoke. They tore through the Chinese defenses, ripping through soldiers and destroying vehicles with ease. Namor grinned as he watched them work, his chest swelling with pride. These were his people, the finest warriors in the world.


    No longer would they be held back, the world would have to accept them as the strongest nation on Earth after this display, and Namor would get his rightful due as a hero.


    He glanced up at the distant roar of incoming fire. His sharp ears picked up the shrill whistle of artillery fire cutting through the sky, and the noise of missile fire following it. His smile faded instantly, replaced by a scowl. "Scatter!" He roared, his voice carrying over the din of battle. His warriors, trained for obeying him in everything in combat, under any conditions, leapt into action, swiftly diving into cover or sprinting out of the residential block they were fighting in.


    A moment later, the air was filled with explosions as the Chinese navy''s barrage of artillery fire hit. The residential block erupted in flames, collapsing in on itself as so many pieces of rubble, as fire and smoke billowed into the sky. The heat from the blast washed over Namor, but he barely noticed. His eyes remained cold, focused on the destruction left behind, counting his men, ensuring they all made it through.


    Landing lightly on a nearby rooftop, Namor surveyed the wreckage, his expression stern. He was uncaring of the flames and destruction behind him. This was war. Collateral damage was inevitable. But the Chinese were growing desperate, resorting to heavy bombardment to slow them down. They knew they were losing.


    His people had survived so far, that was what mattered. The Taiwanese would at least be free after today, no matter their casualties, Namor was sure they would accept the cost as necessary. The Chinese were losing, that''s why they resorted to firing from a distance like cowards. Knowing they could not stand against his warriors and their superior skill and Vibranium.


    Still¡­ The distant fire was annoying him.


    Although it was something that should be stopped soon, if his allies did not fail in their own quest. He had faith that even if they did, those of his forces in the sea heading for the navy would take care of the problem for him.


    Namor''s frown disappeared as quickly as it had come. Victory was at hand after all. He stood tall, arms spread wide as he addressed his warriors below. "They grow desperate! Victory is at hand!" His voice echoed through the ruins, stirring the Talokan soldiers who responded with a mighty war cry that shook the very ground beneath them.


    His heart swelled at the sound. This was why he fought. To lead his people to glory, to ensure their place in the world. With a proud smile, Namor leaped into the air once again, his wings carrying him higher as he surveyed the battlefield from above.


    The streets below were littered with smoke, rubble, and the signs of destruction, but the Talokan warriors were relentless, cutting through the Chinese lines. They moved with the grace of predators, quickly cutting down soldiers, ignoring their pitiful cries for surrender. Who could take that seriously while they still bombed them? Namor watched with satisfaction as they pushed forward, securing their foothold in the city.


    At times, Taiwanese men would attempt to flank the Chinese and get their own revenge, ultimately getting in the way of his people. His Talokan warriors couldn''t see a difference between the Chinese and the Taiwanese, they all looked the same. Namor shook his head, not overly caring about the accidents such as those. The Taiwanese should have stayed home and left this to the superior warriors.


    As he soared through the smoky sky, Namor spotted another gathering of Chinese soldiers, clustered near a barricade in the distance. Without hesitation, he dived toward them, moving with the speed and precision of a swarm of Piranhas swooping down on its prey. He landed with a thunderous crash, the force of his arrival sending soldiers stumbling backward.


    One of the soldiers raised his rifle, but Namor was faster. His hand shot out, grabbing the weapon by its barrel and yanking it from the man''s grip with ease. With a casual flick of his wrist, he tossed the gun aside, the metal crumpling as it hit the ground. "Flee," Namor said, his voice low but commanding. "Or you will fall."


    He would at least give them that one chance to flee, as it would please the Captain to be magnanimous in such matters when the opportunity presented itself. Namor owed the man, and Fury, enough that he''d at least attempt this¡­ Diplomacy, that they spoke of.


    Some of the soldiers hesitated, their faces pale with fear, while others raised their rifles, but Namor gave them no time to react further. Since they''d obviously rejected his offer by their inactivity or raised weapons, he launched at them, spinning in the air like a whirlwind as his powerful limbs broke necks and skulls, leaving the soldiers dead or broken on the ground, as he circled overhead, watching as his warriors quickly took the ground.


    Again, some Taiwanese soldiers attempted to move on the same spot, only to fall to his people, Namor could only shake his head at their foolishness. Couldn''t they see that Namor already had this well in hand?


    In the distance, more Chinese reinforcements arrived, tanks rolling down the narrow streets. Namor narrowed his eyes, his keen vision picking out the next target. He couldn''t help but smile. The thrill of battle coursed through him like fire in his veins. Being a hero, fighting for something greater than himself - it was exhilarating.


    He flew low, skimming the tops of buildings as he headed toward the tanks. One tank''s turret swiveled, lining up a shot, but Namor was already there. He slammed his fist down on the turret with enough force to crumple the metal, and the tank groaned as its treads skidded to a stop. The machine was no match for him.


    Namor rose into the air again, his wings a blur of motion as he soared higher. Below, his warriors continued to push the Chinese forces back, their shouts of victory filling the air. He watched them for a moment, pride swelling in his chest once more. This was how they would wash away the taint of the past - by standing tall and showing the world their strength.


    Making them recognize it. Forcing them to acknowledge their might, and never again attempt to denigrate Namor. The true king of the sea.


    "Talokan!" Namor shouted from the skies, his voice booming across the battlefield. His warriors roared in response, their voices joining together in a cacophony of power and defiance. They were unstoppable, and soon, the world would know it.


    As he flew toward the next engagement, Namor couldn''t help but feel a surge of satisfaction. Being a hero, fighting alongside Captain America to rescue this small nation - it was the right choice. Perhaps, in time, the world governments would even come to respect Talokan, to see them as the powerful nation they were. Perhaps they would lift the fines and humiliations they''d forced onto him, end the scrutiny he had to endure after Cairo.


    Yes, Namor thought as he flew toward another gathering of Chinese soldiers, a smile spreading across his face. This was his path. This was his glory.


    And the world would remember the name Namor.


    At the same time, at sea.


    The command center of the Chinese naval vessel was filled with tension as Steve Rogers slammed his hand onto the nearest console, indenting his hand in the metal, his face a mixture of frustration and sorrow. He had rarely felt more helpless than in that moment, watching yet another volley of missiles streak through the sky, their fiery tails a testament to the destruction they would soon unleash on Taiwan.


    "Natasha!" He barked, his voice tight with urgency. "Get him to send the order, stop firing on Taiwan!"


    Natasha Romanoff was already working on it, her eyes cold as she looked at the Chinese naval commander sitting in front of her. The man was sweaty, his face pale, and he yelled at her in rapid-fire Mandarin, throwing accusations and insults as if they were weapons. He was desperate, but Natasha, ever composed, didn''t flinch.


    Steve couldn''t bear to watch the missiles disappear into the clouds, knowing that on the other side, Namor and his people were entrenched in battle. He clenched his fists, his knuckles white beneath the skin, and forced himself to take a deep breath. Namor would make it, Steve was sure of that, but they had arrived too late to stop the Chinese retaliation. It had taken too long to reach the command ship, too many obstacles in their path. Every second wasted meant more lives at risk.


    Clint Barton jogged into the command center, his face flushed with exertion, a light sheen of sweat covering his brow. He gave Steve a grim nod. "Alright," Clint said, catching his breath, "They''ve stopped trying to rush us for now, but I''m running out of arrows. I can only keep them at bay for so long before we run into real trouble."


    "Natasha?" Steve asked, his voice tense as he looked to her for answers. The weight of the situation was beginning to press down on him. His gaze flicked toward the Chinese commander, still raving in Mandarin, his arms bound behind his back. He looked defeated, but defiant.


    Natasha was calm, her expression neutral as she worked, adjusting the comms. She toggled the channel for fleet-wide communication, keeping it ready, one hand sliding down the commander''s shoulder, her fingers brushing lightly across his chest as she raised an inquisitive eyebrow at him.


    "You know how this ends already." She said with a knowing look, her hand suddenly had a stiletto knife in it, as she trailed down his chest, before lightly resting it just near his belly button, pointed downwards. She cocked her head, "I''ve never done this and had a prisoner allow me to snip both. Do you really want me to even begin with one?"


    Clint grinned, leaning against the wall, "She''s right you know, people always talk, you might as well keep yourself whole."


    Steve grimaced as he looked away, not comfortable with even the threat of it. But Natasha was only threatening anyway, right? She wouldn''t do it¡­ Surely?


    The man''s face went from pale to white to green. He muttered something under his breath, his eyes darting to the side, then spat out what Steve suspected was command codes, even if he couldn''t understand them. Natasha''s sharp ears picked up on them immediately, and she punched them into the console, sending them through to the rest of the fleet, before pushing the commander towards it, pushing his head down, her knife in the other hand teasing his cheek, "Now order them to cease fire." She whispered almost inaudibly.


    The commander spoke slowly in Mandarin, Natasha shutting the channel off as soon as he was finished, pushing the man back into a seated position, patting his cheek condescendingly.


    The silence that followed was deafening. Steve held his breath, watching the radar screen, waiting. The moments ticked by slowly, agonizingly, as each second felt like an eternity.


    Finally, Steve''s shoulders sagged in relief. The missile launches had ceased. There were no more blips on the radar, no more fire directed at Taiwan. "Good job, Nat," He said, though the words felt heavy on his tongue. He didn''t like that they had to rely on Natasha''s particular skill set for this, but he couldn''t deny its effectiveness.


    The Chinese commander glared at Steve, starting to yell in Mandarin, his voice hoarse with frustration. Steve glanced at Natasha, raising an eyebrow. "What''s he saying?"


    Natasha smirked, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she leaned her hip against the console, her body language dripping with confidence. "He''s currently insulting the lineage of your great-great-grandmother and her affinity for dogs," She said, her voice dry with amusement.


    Steve frowned in confusion. "What''s wrong with liking dogs?"


    Clint chuckled, exchanging a look with Natasha. "You¡­ You''ve really been out of the loop, haven''t you?" He asked, looking at Steve with an incredulous expression. "Did the guys never joke around when you were in the war?"


    They hadn''t had much time for joking around with Fury in charge, and with Banner always on a hair trigger back in Talokan, but surely¡­ He must have at some point faced some raunchy jokes, right?


    Steve shook his head, his expression turning thoughtful. "Not really. With the whole Captain America thing, most of them put me on a pedestal back then. I think only Bucky and Howard really never watched what they said around me." His face grew saddened, as he closed his eyes, and Peggy, he thought.


    "Unbelievable," Clint muttered under his breath, shaking his head in disbelief. Tony hadn''t been wrong to call him a boy scout¡­


    Natasha didn''t miss a beat, her focus already shifting back to the task at hand. "The fleet will figure out something''s wrong soon enough," She said, her voice serious. "Or they''ll get orders from the homeland that override his -" She gave the commander''s hair a playful ruffle, which earned a growl of anger from the man. His face turned an unhealthy shade of red as he spat out another string of Mandarin curses. "- orders, and the whole thing will kick off again."


    Steve''s eyes drifted toward the tactical display, where the Chinese naval fleet was still arrayed in formation around Taiwan. They had done what they could to halt the missile fire, but the situation was far from over. "We''ll have to rely on Namor and his warriors to push back the ground forces and help disable the ships," Steve said, his voice heavy with the burden of command. "We can only disable so many ships before someone starts another round of bombardment."


    Clint folded his arms, his brow furrowed in concern. "Namor''s not exactly the type to take prisoners," He reminded Steve, his voice grim. "He''s not going to play by the rules in this."


    Steve winced. "In war, it''s not always possible to follow the rules." He took a deep breath, the weight of those words settling heavily in his chest. He knew the cost of battle. He had seen it too many times.


    Natasha pushed off from the console, her eyes sharp. "Do you want me to contact Namor''s second-in-command? We can give them targets, focus their efforts where they''ll make the most impact."


    She''d thought Steve hopelessly naive to begin with in not ordering them to take the ships down. The diplomatic route was never going to work, no matter how many command codes they spit out.


    Steve nodded, picking up his shield from where it rested against the console and strapping it to his back. "Yes, do that. While you keep this ship locked down, I''ll head for the next one."


    Before they could move, however, the communication channel crackled to life, the chatter from the fleet suddenly escalating in pitch and volume. Natasha''s fingers danced across the controls, her frown deepening as she listened to the chaos unfolding. Something was wrong.


    "Steve, wait¡­" She said, her voice tight with urgency.


    Steve turned sharply, his hand instinctively moving to his shield. "Did they already get new orders?" He asked, his tone anxious. "We need to move quickly if we''re going to stop them."


    Clint, however, was standing still, his face pale, his eyes wide with horror. "Steve¡­ Something else is going on, something way worse!"


    "Does everyone speak Chinese but me?" Steve said with a self deprecating smile, trying to lighten the situation, whatever it may be.


    The comms erupted in a chilling, metallic voice that echoed through the ship''s speakers, reverberating off the steel walls and sending a shiver down Steve''s spine. The voice was unnatural, mechanical, devoid of any humanity.


    "The curse of flesh is at an end!"


    Steve''s heart skipped a beat. "What was that?" He asked, glancing around the room, his eyes sharp and alert. His hand gripped his shield, ready for anything.


    Natasha swallowed, her face grim. "It''s the Iron Legionnaires," She said, her voice low and tense, watching the communications spike across the fleet. "They''ve gone crazy. Hammer''s machines are attacking everyone - Chinese, Americans, civilians, soldiers - it doesn''t matter. They''re targeting everyone. The Chinese fleet is being ordered to return to the mainland and to fire on anything that comes from the sky."


    Steve''s jaw clenched, his teeth grinding together in anger. "He''s showing his true colors," He growled, his fists tightening. "Hammer''s behind this." There was no other explanation in his mind. This was the betrayal they had all feared. "Can we run this ship ourselves?" He asked, his voice urgent.


    Clint and Natasha exchanged a look, the weight of the situation pressing down on them. "Not easily," Natasha said, her voice tinged with frustration. "These systems are too complex to be run by just a few people, and we don''t have enough time to teach the Talokan before the fleet realizes something''s wrong."


    The Chinese commander, still bound and sweating, muttered something under his breath in Mandarin. Clint scratched his chin, glancing at Steve. "He''s offering to take us to the mainland. Says he''ll help fight the ''iron devils'' if we promise to join the fight."


    Steve didn''t hesitate. "Let him loose," He ordered immediately. "We don''t have time for games. We need allies now, no matter who they are." Hammer was the bigger threat, and Steve knew that former enemies could become friends in face of a common enemy.


    Natasha, her lips pressed into a thin line, untied the commander with swift, efficient movements. As soon as the ropes fell away, the man stood, glaring at Steve with a mixture of resentment and something close to greed. Steve held out his hand, his expression hard but sincere. "I will work with you to stop Hammer." He promised.


    The Chinese commander spat something venomous in Mandarin, but he clasped Steve''s hand in return, his grip firm. After a moment, he switched to halting English. "I will inform the mainland. You¡­ You will fight the white devil with us."


    Clint sighed heavily, leaning in to Natasha as the commander and Steve began discussing tactics. "This can only end well," He muttered under his breath, his voice dripping with sarcasm.


    Natasha didn''t respond immediately, her eyes distant as she processed everything that had just happened. Her instincts screamed at her to flee, to cut ties and get away before things got worse. But she couldn''t leave Clint behind. She owed him too much to abandon him now. This was their fight, and they had to see it through.


    Still, her mind turned over the implications of the Iron Legionnaires'' sudden rebellion. This wasn''t like Justin Hammer. He had always been a control freak, careful to manage his assets and maintain order.


    He would not have ordered this¡­


    Which begged the question?


    Who was capable of laying Hammer so low, when SHIELD and the Avengers could barely touch the man or his company?


    <hr>


    New York city, Hellfire Club.


    Sebastian Shaw rolled the polished chess piece between his fingers, feeling the cool weight of the king as he leaned back in his plush leather chair. The lighting of the Hellfire Club''s opulent inner sanctum cast deep shadows across his face, making his eyes gleam with a dangerous mixture of contemplation and ambition. The antique mahogany table in front of him bore the half-finished chess game he''d been playing against himself, but his attention was far from the board.


    Hammer.


    The name echoed in his mind like the rumble of distant thunder. Hammer''s meteoric rise had been nothing short of astonishing - both in personal power and corporate might. It had been a boon for the Hellfire Club, bringing in untold profits, valuable connections, and political leverage. And yet, for all the mutual benefits, Shaw couldn''t shake the feeling that Justin Hammer was a man who did not forget past slights.


    In some ways he saw himself in the man to a disturbing degree¡­ He himself would never suffer a slight, he''d always return with vengeance against such a thing.


    Justin Hammer¡­ If he felt the same way¡­ Perhaps now was the time. Instead of waiting for the inevitable confrontation. Hammer did have some¡­ Minor quibbles with him¡­


    Especially when it came to Shaw''s own manipulations - whether it was using the Chameleon to meddle with Stark Industries in a way that had drawn Hammer''s attention, or his play for Hope Van Dyne... Shaw''s influence had touched every corner of the corporate world, and Hammer was too sharp not to have noticed all his moves preparing for the inevitable fight. In truth, Shaw had expected a more aggressive response by now, something calculated and devastating. But Hammer had grown wiser, more patient, and that was far more dangerous.


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    "Justin''s going to come for me eventually," Shaw muttered, still absently toying with the chess piece. The reports of Iron Legionnaires going berserk across the globe played in the background on a muted TV, the scenes of chaos and destruction reflecting off the dark glass of the window beside him. "The only question is when."


    The quiet thrum of a soft melody filled the room, barely audible over the crackling of the fireplace. Selene, the Black Queen of the Hellfire Club, sat lounging on her throne-like chair, humming softly, her dark eyes half-closed in what appeared to be boredom. Draped in a black dress that was more scandalous than functional, she stretched lazily, her skin glowing faintly in the firelight, like a goddess surveying her domain. Shaw knew better than to trust her serene expression - behind her languid gaze was a predator, constantly watching, waiting for something to amuse her.


    "Selene," Shaw called out, his voice even, though his mind was racing with possibilities. "Anything to add?"


    The ancient sorceress glanced at him from under her long lashes, exhaling a bored sigh. "It''s just some mechanical toys, Sebastian. Why are you wasting your time worrying over this?" Her voice was smooth, almost dismissive, as if the very idea of concerning herself with Hammer''s actions was beneath her.


    Shaw frowned. He knew better than to dismiss her words outright, but he couldn''t shake the urgency that was building inside him. "Hammer''s Legionnaires are turning on the world. That either means he''s been outplayed or he''s out of communication. Either way, it''s an opportunity. A rare one." He set the chess piece down firmly on the board, the sound of wood against wood ringing in the stillness. "If we want to take him down, we need to strike now - decisively and ruthlessly."


    Selene''s lips curled into a slow, mocking smile as she turned her head to gaze at Shaw more fully. "Ruthlessly, hmm?" She purred, her voice thick with sarcasm. "You think you''re being ruthless by backstabbing the man while he''s down? Honestly, Sebastian, it''s all so... Predictable." She waved her hand in a gesture of dismissal. "Your little games don''t amuse me."


    Shaw gritted his teeth but held back his retort. Selene''s detachment from the ''mortal world'' often made it difficult to plan around her whims. He knew he needed her on his side for this however.


    Hammer, even distracted, was not an enemy to take lightly. Too many had done so, and the show in Cairo had shown exactly how much Hammer had grown. Sebastian did not want to test him personally.


    Ideally Selene would take care of him from a distance before he ever had to worry. He wasn''t sure how Hammer had managed to grow so powerful so quickly, he was positive the man wasn''t a mutant. Or metahuman as Hammer had managed to rebrand them¡­ None of Shaw''s spies had been able to even get close to his business to find out - the man had annoyingly good security¡­


    Eventually, he had to break the silence, carefully attempting to convince Selene of his plan, as he had many times before, his position so assured precisely because he was the only one who could ever direct her.


    "Think about it, Selene," He said, adopting a more measured tone. "Hammer''s influence has become too great. His empire stretches across industries, politics, and even our own circles. And that''s just his company. He''s something more now. You''ve seen his power firsthand. The man plays god on a whim - he''s stolen entire nations from beneath their rulers, and yet he thinks we''re all just pieces on his board. We need to topple him before he turns his full attention on us¡­ on you!"


    Selene leaned back in her chair, her fingers lazily tracing the edge of her glass of wine. She gazed at Shaw with thinly veiled disinterest. "You''re afraid of him," She said, her tone soft and cutting. "That''s what this is really about, isn''t it? You''ve become the mouse in this game, scurrying about, trying to avoid the cat''s paw."


    Shaw felt a flash of anger rise in his chest, but he quickly swallowed it, it would not avail him here, "This isn''t about fear. It''s about survival," He said firmly, his voice low and dangerous. "Hammer''s far too ambitious, and ambition unchecked is a threat. He''s grown beyond what even you and I imagined."


    He''d seen no problem in his political goals, nor in his business moves. What had finally made him sit up and take notice¡­ Had been the fight in Cairo. He wasn''t sure he could have touched Apocalypse, and yet Hammer had destroyed him with ease¡­


    It rankled him that where things stood before, he''d felt confident he could destroy the man in combat if he needed to be forced to heel¡­ Now he was not so confident anymore in the matter. In the darkest recesses of his mind, he quietly admitted that he would lose if it came to it. And that was unacceptable!


    He needed Selene onboard, her magic could destroy whatever advantages Hammer had. Like she had destroyed so many of his enemies over the years.


    Selene twirled a strand of her raven-black hair between her fingers, her eyes narrowing slightly as Shaw spoke. For a moment, there was silence, save for the faint crackle of the fireplace.


    Finally, Shaw pushed forward. "He denied you your fun, remember? He kept you from indulging yourself when you wanted. Now''s your chance to make him pay. You could tear his entire empire down, leave it in ruins, and take everything he''s built for yourself." For myself¡­ He thought.


    Selene''s interest piqued at the mention of being denied. Her dark eyes glittered with faint traces of magic as she sat up straighter. "I could destroy everything he''s built, couldn''t I?" She mused, her voice laced with a newfound hunger. "Tear it apart piece by piece and leave nothing but ashes."


    Shaw smiled, leaning in as he saw the shift in her demeanor. "Exactly. You''d have free rein. Hammer''s network, his allies, his resources - they would all fall into chaos. You could let loose, destroy anyone and anything you wanted. And no one would be able to stop you."


    Selene''s grin widened, her teeth gleaming in the low light. She looked almost feral, like a wolf ready to pounce. Shaw felt a thrill of satisfaction ripple through him. He had her now. He had finally found a way to weaponize her insatiable thirst for chaos.


    "I can let loose?" Selene whispered, her voice taking on a darker, more dangerous edge. Her aura pulsed with dark energy, and the air around her grew thick with anticipation.


    "Yes," Shaw said, his voice dripping with confidence. "Murder your way through Hammer Industries. Leave no upper echelon alive. Every executive, every ally - cut them all down. It''s the perfect opportunity for us to step in afterward and snap up the best pieces of his empire."


    Selene stood up from her throne, her movements languid but filled with a barely contained ferocity. Her eyes gleamed with bloodlust as she took a step toward Shaw, her fingers twitching as if eager to tear something apart. The atmosphere in the room grew heavier, charged with her energy.


    But then, something changed.


    Her eyes, once sharp with hunger, suddenly glazed over, her pupils dilating as she seemed to peer into the distance. The room itself seemed to hum with power, and for a brief second, Shaw saw orange sparks of energy flicker in the air around her, lighting up the shadows.


    Shaw took a step back, his instincts warning him that something was very wrong.


    Selene''s gaze sharpened, her bloodlust draining away as quickly as it had appeared. She sank back into her throne, her eyes cold and calculating once more.


    "No," She said, her voice clipped and final. "I don''t feel like dealing with her today."


    Shaw froze. "Her?" His mind raced as he processed what she''d just said. Who was this "her" that could stop Selene in her tracks? He had never known the Black Queen to back down from a fight once she was motivated, especially one that promised chaos and destruction.


    "Selene, wait - " Shaw began, frustration coloring his voice. "We can''t just let this opportunity pass. If we -"


    Before he could finish, Selene waved her hand lazily in his direction. Immediately, Shaw felt an overwhelming pressure surround him, as though the very air had turned to liquid. His lungs burned as he gasped for breath, but no air came. His vision blurred, and his hands clawed at his throat as he struggled against the invisible force suffocating him.


    Selene watched him with cold amusement, her eyes dark with satisfaction. "I said no," She repeated, her voice calm, though her magic held him in a death grip. "I don''t care about your little plans, Shaw. And I certainly don''t care about your fear of Hammer. I''ve indulged you long enough. Now... Sit down."


    With a flick of her wrist, the crushing force disappeared, and Shaw stumbled backward, gasping for breath. His chest heaved as he clutched the back of a chair for support, glaring at Selene with a mixture of fury and caution. He knew better than to press her further, not when she was in one of her moods.


    Although the hate sex was literally spectacular at times after - he really wished this had turned out otherwise this time.


    "Of course, dear," He said, forcing a smile even though rage burned hot behind his eyes. "Perhaps next time."


    Selene said nothing, her attention already drifting away from him as she returned to her lounging position, her gaze fixed somewhere far beyond the room. Shaw straightened himself, his mind already calculating, already planning his next move.


    Who was this "her" that had made Selene retreat?


    Next time, Justin¡­ He thought, mind turning to other ways to get the man surreptitiously.


    <hr>


    Triskelion, Washington DC.


    Alexander Pierce leaned back in his chair, a serene smile playing across his lips as he surveyed the holographic display in front of him. The HYDRA council was gathered, their flickering images projected in the most secure conference room at the Triskelion that he had available. The shadows danced across his sharp features, but his eyes betrayed no emotion. Behind the mask of geniality, Pierce held nothing but contempt for the individuals before him. Each one of them was a puppet, more concerned with preserving their little fiefdoms than advancing the grand cause of HYDRA.


    But now, he thought, now was the time to finally move forward. Chaos was stronger than it had ever been before. And their most mercurial ''ally'' seemed to be off the board.


    "This is an opportunity," Pierce said, his voice smooth and measured as he addressed the council. "The world is descending into chaos, and we are in a unique position to take control. This is not the time for hesitation."


    Across the virtual conference, the Baroness - one of the more conservative voices on the council - scowled. Her arms were crossed, her posture defensive. "Better to wait out the chaos," She retorted sharply, her voice dripping with disdain. "It''s too risky to make ourselves known. The world is not yet ready for what we represent."


    Pierce felt a surge of anger at her cowardice but quickly buried it, replacing his frustration with an inquisitive expression. "When will they ever be ready if not now?" He asked, spreading his hands in a gesture of reason. "The world is crying out for order, Baroness. Look at them - they''re desperate. Governments are collapsing, armies are turning on their own, and no one knows who to trust. We can step into the void. There''s no need to fully reveal our real name, not yet, but we can still rule."


    Daniel Whitehall, seated at the far end of the holographic projection, leaned forward. The silver-haired man had always been somewhat of an ally of Pierce''s, and today was no exception. His fingers were tented in front of his mouth as he considered Pierce''s words. "What do you have in mind, exactly?" Whitehall asked, his voice calm but edged with curiosity.


    Pierce''s smile widened just a fraction, pleased to have the attention of the more ambitious members of the council. "The United States is on the brink of internal collapse," He said smoothly. "SHIELD is currently protecting both the President and Vice President in secure locations while the battle for the White House rages on. The chaos outside gives us the perfect cover."


    "The Speaker of the House," Whitehall interjected, his eyes narrowing with sudden realization. "He''s ours, isn''t he?"


    Strucker laughed idly in the background, as he leaned back, eyes glittering, also having caught on to what he was proposing, that was two council members already onboard then, Pierce thought.


    Pierce nodded, a glint of satisfaction in his gaze. "Yes. And with Hammer conveniently out of communication - whether he''s dead, incapacitated, or just distracted - it''s easy enough to frame him for the murder of both the President and Vice President. We eliminate them both, create a power vacuum, and let the Speaker take the helm." He leaned back, his confidence radiating across the room. "Two birds with one stone."


    And by complete happenstance, not only was the speaker beholden to HYDRA, but to him, personally. Giving him a significant boost in power over the other council members. Considering he was the only one advancing HYDRA as a whole - it was only right.


    Pierce wouldn''t be the President, but he''d be the one holding the leash, which honestly suited him better. Yet¡­ For such a move, he needed the authority of the council, or he risked them teaming up against him.


    Whitehall''s lips curled into a thoughtful smile as he pondered the idea. "Control over the United States is worth the risk of exposure," He said, his tone final. "If we''re going to seize this opportunity, we need to do it now."


    Strucker agreed, "It is not an opportunity that can be missed."


    Across the holographic table, the Baroness and the Banker exchanged uneasy glances. They were among the more cautious members of the council, always wary of making too bold a move. The Baroness, in particular, was fuming. She shook her head, her face set in a scowl. "Hammer will not take this lying down!" She spat. "He''s a wild card. We don''t know where he is or what he''s planning. And if we overreach -"


    The Banker cut in, his voice low and steady, though there was a note of fear. "If this backfires, we will be laid bare before the world," He cautioned. "Hammer may be out of the picture temporarily, or permanently, but if he returns¡­ He''ll have everything he needs to dispose of us once and for all."


    One thing they all could agree on, was that Hammer did not take betrayal lightly. They had to win with one stroke, gain such a position that the man, if he was alive, couldn''t come after them. Forcing him to negotiate at worst, and submit, at best.


    Pierce''s eyes glinted with controlled fury, though his face remained smooth and genial. These two fools were cowards, blind to the opportunity that lay before them, he thought . But the others - he noted with satisfaction - were remaining silent, waiting, leaning toward his side of the argument.


    Pierce folded his hands on the table in front of him, letting the silence stretch for just a moment longer. Then he spoke, his voice measured and calm, but with an undeniable edge. "Hammer is either dead or in so much trouble that it will not make a difference," He said quietly. "If anything, this is our chance to draw him into HYDRA proper. If he survives and sees the inevitability of our cause, perhaps he will finally join us."


    Whitehall raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "It would be ideal if he served willingly," He murmured. "I would dearly like to study him, if given the opportunity..."


    "We also have Project Insight on the way, do we not?" Strucker added idly, "The danger then is small, I approve."


    "Madness!" The Baroness hissed, her face twisting in disgust. "This is utter madness! You''re risking everything we''ve built!"


    Pierce''s smile didn''t falter, but his voice hardened. "No, my dear, this is not madness," He said, leaning forward slightly. "This is opportunity."


    The tension in the room was palpable, the council members exchanging glances, each weighing their options. Pierce could feel the tide turning in his favor.


    "All in favor," Pierce said, his voice steady as he scanned the faces of his fellow council members.


    One by one, hands rose in assent. Whitehall was the first, followed by several others. Even the Baroness, after a moment''s hesitation, raised her hand reluctantly, though her face was still etched with disapproval. She''d seen the writing on the wall, and refused to be the only one on the losing side.


    Pierce''s grin was wide, elated, as he mentally counted the votes. He stood up, adjusting his suit with vigor. "Ladies and gentlemen, when we next meet, we will be in control of the most powerful nation on Earth. Hail HYDRA!"


    The chorus of responses was a mix of fervor and hesitance, but it was enough. The decision was made. Pierce ended the communication, the holographic images flickering out one by one until the room was dark and silent once more.


    He let out a breath, straightening his tie as he stood there with victory flooding his veins. The plan was set in motion, and with HYDRA controlling the United States, the world would soon follow. Ideally, he mused, they could convince Hammer to join their cause, bringing his empire under HYDRA''s control. But if not¡­


    Taking over Hammer Industries would be a worthy consolation prize.


    Pierce allowed himself a moment of satisfaction. World order. That was what the people were crying out for amidst this recent calamity. Hammer''s collapse - whether by their hands or by his own failure - would only expedite HYDRA''s rise. The chaos was perfect cover.


    He stood, his mind already moving to the next phase. Pierce quickly sent the order to eliminate President Ellis and the Vice President, knowing the Speaker would be in place soon enough. It wouldn''t be long now.


    Already, he was mentally drafting the press release. Hammer Industries involved in a coup attempt, responsible for the deaths of the President and Vice President. It would be believable enough, given the state of the world. Hammer had been a target of scrutiny for years, a disruptor of the old order. Pierce chuckled darkly. Even in failure, Hammer was the gift that kept on giving.


    And if Hammer submitted¡­ It wouldn''t be too hard to twist the press to claim he''d been betrayed by his inner circle, to make use of the man still and clean his image up again.


    Pierce walked toward the wide window overlooking Washington, his hands clasped behind his back. He could see the plumes of smoke rising from the city, a visual testament to the chaos that was spreading like wildfire. Soon, the entire world would be aflame with disorder, and HYDRA would rise from the ashes as the only force capable of restoring order.


    "You picked the wrong time to be out of the loop, Hammer," Pierce muttered under his breath, watching the city burn.


    Pierce smiled watching the burning city. He had always been patient, always willing to wait for the right moment. Now, the pieces were in place, and nothing could stop HYDRA from claiming its place as the true power behind the world''s thrones.


    It was only a matter of time.


    "Victory is at hand," He whispered, his voice barely audible as the fires continued to burn in the distance.


    <hr>


    Near Taiwan,


    Tony Stark cursed under his breath, streaking through the sky at speeds that most would deem impossible. His HUD blazed with updates, notifications, and live feeds from across the globe, each one a grim reminder of the chaos he was hurtling into. Taiwan was just minutes away, but every second felt like a lifetime. His irritation boiled just beneath the surface, and with every blink of data, it threatened to bubble over.


    He''d been forced to activate Friday, his backup AI, still in her developmental stages. As much as he liked to keep the atmosphere around him light, there was no humor to be found in the situation now. Jarvis - his faithful, brilliant AI - had vanished without a trace. Tony had muttered every curse in the book when it happened. He couldn''t believe Jarvis would just cut out like that, not in the middle of an all-out global catastrophe. And that was exactly what this was turning into.


    While Friday was doing her best, she was untested at this scale, and right now, Tony was forced to rely on her to manage the chaos back home. She was sending out his multitude of Iron Man suits, trying to rein in the carnage the rogue Iron Legion was wreaking across the United States.


    Thankfully the X-Men were somewhat helping, because there was a limit to how many suits Tony had prepared. And the Iron Legionnaires definitely had the numbers advantage. And with Friday so new to things¡­ His suits were not exactly operating at peak efficiency either.


    "Jarvis better have a damn good explanation for going AWOL," Tony muttered bitterly, his hands clenching and unclenching inside his gauntlets. The idea that his trusted AI had abandoned him was still sinking in, and he didn''t like how exposed it made him feel.


    He hoped it was that. That someone had taken him was a thought he refused to consider. So it was his baby boy deciding to be naughty, it had to be. Tony was going to blast his servers with so much porn to punish him when he got back.


    As Tony crossed the sea, Taiwan came into view. Or rather, what was left of it. Smoke billowed into the sky from various points across the island, and through his helmet''s enhanced vision, Tony could see buildings smoldering, some already collapsed into rubble. Streets were littered with debris, and whole blocks looked as if they''d been leveled in the fighting. His heart sank, though he masked it with a grim scowl. The island looked like a warzone - because, well, it was.


    Just ahead of him, the Chinese Navy''s vessels were pulling away from the island, the fleet speeding back towards the mainland. His scanners picked up multiple targets aboard one of the vessels, and Tony immediately recognized them.


    Talokan soldiers. And him.


    Namor.


    "And of course, who else but Rogers as well," Tony scoffed, the sarcasm bitter on his tongue. "Great job, Cap. Real helpful."


    A part of him - a large part - wanted to fly down there and give Steve Rogers a piece of his mind. It was almost unbearable, the urge to dive down and confront him. All the pent-up anger, frustration, and disappointment surged forward, threatening to pull him off course. After all, what the hell was Steve thinking, working with Namor, someone who had attacked the surface world more than once? Someone who just leveled half of Taiwan, no less?


    Tony hovered in the air for a moment, hanging above the disaster zone as his mind raced with conflicting impulses. He could already imagine the confrontation - the sharp exchange of words, the heated accusations. The satisfaction of letting Rogers know exactly what he thought of his sanctimonious self-righteousness. On how much his ideals cost other people¡­


    But as much as Tony wanted that catharsis, there were more pressing matters at hand.


    He gave one last, lingering look at the retreating naval vessels, and then turned his gaze back toward Taiwan. The fires, the crumbling infrastructure, the people trapped beneath the rubble¡­ They needed him more right now. Personal grudges could wait.


    "Friday, search and rescue protocols," Tony murmured into his helmet, adjusting his trajectory toward the devastated city. He knew Friday wasn''t quite ready for this level of responsibility - managing multiple combat zones while orchestrating a rescue operation wasn''t what she had been designed for yet - but there was no choice. She''d have to manage.


    "Yessir, bringing up the worst-hit areas for you now," Friday''s voice chirped in his ear, her tone less refined and lacking the subtle, reassuring warmth that Jarvis always had. Still, it was better than nothing.


    Before she could finish compiling the data, Tony''s sensors flared a warning, and he had to roll to the side just in time to avoid incoming fire.


    "Whoa! What the hell!?" Tony cursed, deploying a barrage of chaff to confuse the targeting systems of the missiles. Gunfire also erupted from the Chinese Navy''s vessels, narrowly missing him as he looped back into evasive maneuvers.


    "Are you kidding me?" Tony growled, gritting his teeth. "Am I seriously getting shot at right now?"


    Tony jetted upward, increasing his altitude as the Navy continued to open fire, determined to avoid a direct confrontation. He could already feel his frustration mounting - was this Rogers? Or was it the Chinese? Did they seriously think he was a threat, or were they just shooting at anything that moved? Either way, it pissed him off.


    He spared one more irritated glance at the naval fleet, particularly the one carrying Rogers, Clint, and Natasha, before shaking his head. "Not the priority right now," He muttered, forcing himself to stay focused.


    "Boss, I''ve located several key impact zones," Friday interrupted, her voice cutting through the frustration. "I''m seeing collapsed structures and multiple civilian casualties. Taiwanese emergency services are overwhelmed, and they''re unable to help due to rubble blocking their way."


    Tony exhaled sharply, forcing himself to push everything else out of his mind. He couldn''t afford to dwell on Rogers, Namor, or even Jarvis right now. Taiwan needed him.


    "I''m on it," He replied tersely, adjusting his course and diving toward the island.


    The moment he entered the city''s airspace, the devastation became more real. Fires raged across multiple blocks, casting an orange glow into the smoke-filled sky. Entire neighborhoods were reduced to rubble, with only skeletons of buildings standing amidst the carnage. Tony''s sensors picked up hundreds of life signs scattered throughout the area, many of them weak and fading. People trapped beneath debris, their signals barely registering.


    "Focus on the highest concentration of civilians, Friday," Tony instructed, his voice sharp with urgency. "We need to get as many of them out as fast as we can."


    "Working on it, boss," Friday chirped, though Tony could hear the strain in her voice as she juggled the flood of information pouring in from all corners of the disaster zone.


    Tony touched down in a cleared area, his boots crunching against the broken asphalt of what used to be a bustling street. Flames licked at the remnants of nearby buildings, and the acrid stench of smoke filled the air. His HUD pinged with multiple alerts as civilians in need of assistance were highlighted in his view.


    "Alright, let''s get to work," He muttered to himself, flying towards a collapsed building where his sensors indicated several people were trapped. With a quick scan, Tony found the weak spots in the debris, then used his repulsors to carefully eliminate sections of the wreckage, creating an opening large enough for him to pull out a family huddled underneath.


    "Hey, you''re safe now," Tony said, trying to keep his voice steady as he helped them out of the rubble, guiding them away from the danger zone. "Move quickly, follow the path behind me. Rescue teams will be here soon." I hope¡­


    The family nodded, their faces pale with shock, but they moved as instructed. Tony barely spared them another glance as he turned back to the wreckage. There were dozens more like them, scattered across the city, and he didn''t have time to waste.


    "Friday, how are the suits back home holding up?" Tony asked, his mind still partly focused on the chaos unfolding in the U.S.


    "Not perfect, boss," Friday replied, her voice strained with the effort of keeping everything under control. "The suits are managing, but the Iron Legion is causing serious damage. We''re doing what we can, but we''re stretched thin."


    Tony clenched his fists, his frustration rising again. "I can''t be in two places at once," He muttered. "Just¡­ Do what you can. North America will have to hold until I get back."


    He turned his attention back to Taiwan, forcing himself to block out the noise of everything happening elsewhere. There were people here who needed him, and he couldn''t afford to lose focus.


    As Tony jetted off to the next location, surveying the burning city below, he couldn''t help but feel the weight of the world pressing down on him.


    "Sorry, Hammer," Tony whispered under his breath, glancing at the destruction before him. "I can only deal with what''s in front of me."


    His people would have to handle things alone.


    Minutes later, he was breaking his own word of only dealing with what was in front of him, as he desperately threw himself back towards the states, pushing his armor beyond safe limits.


    Pepper!


    <hr>


    New York Blacksite.


    Xu Wenwu strode confidently through the massive hole his men had blown in the concrete walls of the ''hidden'' blacksite. His posture was calm, his expression indifferent, as flames licked the edges of the shattered structure. The thick smoke hung in the air like a shroud, but it didn''t bother him - he had walked through much worse. Behind him, his elite fighters moved in perfect formation, awaiting his silent commands.


    Wenwu raised a hand, signaling them to halt. This was his path to walk alone now. He didn''t need their help. His men were nothing more than an afterthought to him at this moment. His real weapon was already with him - the Ten Rings, and his superior mind and body.


    He had been putting pieces into place long before he even knew he needed to be wary of Justin Hammer, saving the information for a rainy day, and now it would all bear fruit.


    The defenders of the facility had preemptively cut the power to the elevators that descended into the lower levels. But that was a mere inconvenience to a man like Wenwu. With a subtle motion of his wrist, the Ten Rings around his arms lit up with a faint glow, pulsing with ancient energy. The ground trembled slightly as one of the rings shot forward, slamming into the elevator doors with a thunderous boom. The doors caved in, the metal folding like paper.


    The ring buzzed as it spun around, before cutting through the entirety of the elevator in a rapid spin that was almost impossible to catch with the naked eye, the pieces of molten and cut metal falling down, after which the elevator shaft was left exposed.


    Without hesitation, Wenwu stepped forward, casually walking into the now - destroyed shaft. He didn''t fall - his rings, connected to his very will, hovered around him, gently slowing his descent as he floated downward. As he neared the bottom, he saw the defenders waiting for him, guns trained on the opening. A smile tugged at the corner of his lips. They thought they could stop him.


    He had to admit, there was some satisfaction in letting loose once again, things had grown¡­ Stale.


    His feet touched the floor with barely a sound, and as the defenders filled the air with plasma, his arm shot out, the rings spinning in a blur of motion. The first burst of fire was deflected effortlessly, the deadly plasma beams bouncing off the glowing rings as they moved faster than the eye could track, putting down half the defenders as their attacks rebounded. The defenders barely had time to react further, before Wenwu moved.


    In an instant, he was upon them, idly noting that the ''killed'' men were regenerating their wounds, and getting back onto their feet slowly.


    To him, they might as well have been moving in slow motion.


    He dashed forward with speed that might as well have been instantaneous as far as his enemies were able to parse it. His first opponent, a soldier armed with a tri-beam HammerTech rifle, didn''t even have time to pull the trigger again before Wenwu was in front of him. With a contemptuous flick of his wrists, two of the rings struck the soldier''s two comrades at his side, shattering their skulls into pieces, viscera raining onto the soldier.


    Said soldier only had time for his eyes to widen in horror, before Wenwu drove a palm into his chest, sending him flying back into the concrete wall with bone-crushing force, his entire torso caved in.


    He did not regenerate, Wenwu smirking minisculely as his rings glowed, his ring of absorption working wonders on Extremis it seemed. He might have to slow down on using that one then, or this would be all too boring¡­


    Another defender rushed him from the side, firing rapidly, but Wenwu hardly needed to look. His movements were fluid, effortless, as he dodged the incoming fire. He pivoted, his body twisting gracefully, and his fist shot out like a viper''s strike. His knuckles connected with the man''s jaw in a brutal strike, a ring sliding forward with the motion, shrinking down as it went down his throat.


    The shouts of horror from the other defenders as the man with the rapidly healing broken jaw turned around and fired at his comrades warmed a small kernel of Wenwu''s cold heart.


    Three more defenders opened fire, their weapons roaring as they filled the corridor with impossible to dodge beams of death. Wenwu didn''t flinch. He extended his arms, and the rings responded instantly. They spun outward, creating a whirling barrier of energy that seemed to suck in the plasma. With a dismissive gesture, Wenwu sent two of the rings hurtling forward the fire that had been swallowed, returned at point blank range.


    Extremis would not avail those soldiers, as their state could best be described as jellified. With a thought, the ring inside mister glass jaw, returned to him, sliding onto his arm, the man wetly flopping to the ground, cut in half by the rings return, Wenwu crushed his skull with his foot as he slowly walked by, a small contemptuous smile on his face, as he stared down the defenders.


    Hammer had good men, he acknowledged begrudgingly. They still did not run. He mentally applauded their bravery and loyalty even as he derided their weakness and poor choices. Even as his heart beat faster, the blood covering his arms brought back memories of simpler times. Back when slaughter was the way to deal with any enemy, and pillaging and raping was not only appropriate, but expected. Simple times, perhaps - but he did miss it in some moments.


    The few remaining defenders regrouped, one throwing a grenade in a desperate attempt to stop him. Wenwu''s eyes barely flicked toward the explosive. With a mere thought, the rings responded, spinning in a circle before him, covering the width of the corridor, before a gout of flame shot towards the men, the grenade only adding to the inferno as it exploded as the fire reached it. The explosion lit up the corridor in a flash of fire and smoke, but Wenwu walked through it as if it were nothing, his silhouette framed by the destruction.


    The Ten Rings were more than mere baubles of immortality, their existence and functions lost through time as Wenwu headed out to slaughter less and less with age.


    They were so much more than even his own men believed¡­


    He walked out into the next corridor, smoke wafting off his form, even as a soldier screamed in utter agony at his feet, regenerating even as he continued to burn to death, fat dripping off him, bone cooking, skin blackening, even as it regenerated again, Wenwu''s flames not the kind that extinguished until he willed it.


    Idly he wondered how long the man could burn, if he was still alive when he returned, he''d have to bring him home. An eternally burning man would make a nice centerpiece for his throne room. It would keep his men honest¡­


    A pair of obviously enhanced soldiers stepped forward next, their eyes glowing with the unstable energy coursing through their veins as they pushed their Extremis to its limits. They rushed him with inhuman speed, but Wenwu was faster. His centuries of martial arts mastery showed as he dropped low, dodging their first strikes, and in one fluid motion, he swept the legs out from under one of them. The soldier hit the ground hard, but Wenwu was already on him, delivering a lightning-fast series of strikes to his chest and throat. Each blow was precise, methodical, and brutal.


    He didn''t even bother using his rings as he ripped part of the man''s spine out of his skull and neck and used it to stab the other soldier through the eye, watching uncaringly as the man fell, his regeneration not able to help him with something lodged into his brain as such.


    The rest of the defenders hesitated now, fear creeping into their eyes. They had no doubt been briefed about the Mandarin, but witnessing his power firsthand was another matter entirely from guesswork and rumors. Wenwu could sense their fear, and he relished it. He stepped forward again, his gaze cold and unyielding.


    Another group of soldiers opened fire, this time with regular ordinance as their energy weapons had failed them, but Wenwu moved like water, his arms glowing, flowing between their bullets with ease. He weaved through the chaos, his body a blur of motion, and with each step, he closed the distance between him and his attackers.


    The first soldier he reached raised his weapon, but Wenwu caught the barrel with his hand, twisting it upward as the gun discharged harmlessly into the ceiling. With a swift, brutal motion, he drove his elbow into the soldier''s throat, sending him reeling back in pain. Before the soldier could recover, Wenwu lashed out with a spinning kick, the force of it sending the man crashing into the wall, all ten of his rings briefly leaving his arms to absolutely crush the man into paste, before sliding back on, all within a few blinks of the eye.


    Another soldier tried to flank him, but Wenwu''s reflexes were too sharp. He dodged the incoming strike, grabbing the man''s arm and pulling him off balance. In one fluid motion, Wenwu twisted the soldier''s arm behind his back and delivered a devastating knee strike to his spine. The soldier collapsed to the ground, incapacitated for a moment.


    Long enough for Wenwu to snap his neck, and throw him at the few remaining soldiers who hadn''t advanced, and was still trying to nail him down with bullets, one of his rings easily pinballing back and forth and deflecting the fire while he was busy ''playing'' with the supersoldiers.


    Wenwu turned just in time to catch a punch from one of the larger defenders, his hand gripping the man''s fist effortlessly. For a moment, the soldier struggled, trying to break free, but Wenwu''s strength was overwhelming. With a casual flick of his wrist, Wenwu speared the man through with nine rings, the man flying backward, crashing into the floor with a thunderous impact as his organs flowed out of his body.


    The flooring was becoming difficult for the men facing him, slick with blood and viscera as it was, Wenwu calmly walking over it without a shred of difficulty. He didn''t even pay attention as his rings destroyed another automated turret, having not bothered to worry about the mechanical issues for the entirety of his Sunday stroll.


    As more soldiers rushed in, Wenwu decided to end this quickly - he was growing bored with this. The Ten Rings hovered around him, glowing with an eerie light. He raised his hand, and the rings glowed brightly, before dozens of beams shot forward in unison, striking down the remaining soldiers with devastating precision. Each ring moved with deadly accuracy, melting the men that faced him until there was not enough left to regenerate.


    In mere moments, the corridor was silent again, littered with the few remains that survived. Wenwu stood in the center of the devastation, his posture calm, his expression unchanged. He hadn''t even broken a sweat. The rings returned to him, floating lazily around his arms as if waiting for his next command.


    Wenwu glanced around, surveying the destruction with cold detachment. These men had been nothing more than obstacles in his path. He had dealt with them as one might brush away an insect - effortlessly, and with little thought.


    It was good to see he hadn''t lost his touch entirely, he thought, although he was slightly displeased with how slow he''d been, he truly was getting old.


    He continued down the corridor, his steps echoing off the walls as he approached the final set of doors. More defenders lay in wait, but they didn''t matter. Wenwu had faced far greater challenges in his lifetime. He would walk through them just as easily as he had the others.


    As he neared the entrance to the labs, the final group of soldiers tried to mount a last-ditch defense. They were clearly more elite, their movements precise and coordinated. But it made no difference to Wenwu. They moved in, striking with military efficiency, but Wenwu''s martial arts mastery was unparalleled.


    The first soldier came at him with a series of rapid strikes, but Wenwu blocked each one with ease, his arms moving with the grace of a dancer. He countered with a sharp palm strike to the man''s chest, knocking the wind out of him before following up with a roundhouse kick that sent him crashing into the wall.


    Two more soldiers tried to flank him, but Wenwu moved faster than they could react. He grabbed one by the wrist, twisting his arm behind his back, while simultaneously delivering a backhanded punch to the second soldier''s jaw. The second soldier stumbled back, dazed, and Wenwu finished him with a swift kick to the side of the head.


    Each strike of his, ending with the rings flowing forward alongside the strike striking them ten times as hard as they flowed down his legs and arms, absorbing their regeneration as he toggled that particular rings effect, ending them immediately with the power of the strike.


    Wenwu stood again amidst the fallen defenders, his expression unchanged. He didn''t even bother to look back as he approached the door to the labs. The path was clear. His rings floated silently around him, still glowing faintly with power.


    Wenwu had known for some time the facility was here - his people following one of its scientists over a year ago. But he had held off, knowing Hammer would be able to defend the facility with ease if he struck.


    He''d waited, patiently. Until the time to strike arrived.


    He''d seen the chaos out in the world that he created - seen how it grew even greater then he''d anticipated, seen how Hammer did not react - and he''d realized this was the perfect time.


    He would have preferred to go after one of his more known women, but they''d all disappeared with him.


    Wenwu would make do.


    Especially with what one of his men had reported recently¡­ Tasked with a simple job at a nearby pharmacy, keeping an eye on the comings and goings of the people who entered and left the facility.


    He made a gesture, and soon had a kneeling Shinobi at his feet, "Settle the cattle." He ordered.


    Even with his orders to stay back, his personal guard had disobeyed, the only ones he allowed that honor.


    They might as well make themselves useful.


    ¡­


    Ten minutes later,


    Wenwu stood tall and commanding, his dark silhouette illuminated by the flickering, red lights of the underground lab. The corridor behind him was littered with the remnants of his assault, the smell of death and blood cloying in the underground facility. Before him, kneeling in a line, were the three scientists that mattered enough to Hammer to personally recruit - Doctor Helen Cho, Doctor Maya Hansen, and Doctor Curt Connors. His elite soldiers stood silently behind them, weapons trained on the rest of the staff held hostage against the walls.


    Wenwu clasped his hands behind his back, his expression cold but composed as he looked down at the scientists. They knelt on the floor, their hands bound behind them, heads bowed except for one. Helen Cho glared up at him, her dark eyes filled with defiance, while Connors and Hansen avoided his gaze, the weight of fear pressing on them. Connors trembled slightly, and Maya''s posture was tense, her lips pressed into a thin line. They knew they were at his mercy.


    "You show great loyalty," Wenwu began, his voice smooth and commanding, echoing through the formerly sterile space. "It is to be commended."


    He paced slowly before them, his eyes scanning each face as if assessing their worth. There was no rush in his movements, only the methodical calm of a man in complete control. Helen''s defiance caught his attention, and his gaze lingered on her. He admired her fire, but he knew that would not last long.


    Breaking people was somewhat of a hobby of his after all.


    Even now the Green Goblin, Norman Osborn, his broken toy - was doing his bidding, gathering up another hostage.


    "Yet," He continued, his voice lowering with a dangerous edge, "It is loyalty to a failed leader. One who has left you to die. Who cares not for your safety."


    Wenwu stopped directly in front of Helen, towering over her. He cocked his head slightly, his eyes narrowing in cold calculation. "Or¡­" He said, his voice carrying an almost amused tone, "Does he?"


    Helen Cho glared up at him, her chin jutting out defiantly. "Justin will save us," She spat, her voice full of conviction. "He is a god now. He hears our prayers, and he will crush you for your blasphemy!"


    Wenwu''s lips curled into a faint smile at her words, he recognized a fanatic when he saw one, this one would be fun to break. The room grew colder, the tension thickening as the other two scientists shifted nervously. Maya nudged Helen with her elbow, trying to get her to stop talking, but Helen ignored her, fueled by her unwavering belief in Justin Hammer''s power.


    "A god?" Wenwu repeated, a low, humorless chuckle escaping his lips. "Then where is your god, woman?" His voice dripped with derision, but his amusement was short-lived. His eyes gleamed with a dangerous intensity as he stepped closer, his shadow falling over her like a dark cloud.


    Helen lifted her chin even higher, her voice defiant as ever. "He is busy with something far more important than you." She said with a sharpness in her tone. "But he will come. You can''t win. All you''ve done is earned my god''s wrath. He will destroy you and everything you love." There was a hint of relish in her voice as she spoke, as if the idea of Hammer''s vengeance brought her some twisted satisfaction.


    Wenwu''s smile faded into something colder, more predatory. He knelt in front of Helen, his face inches from hers, and she flinched ever so slightly as his gaze bore into her. He wondered what she saw in his eyes, if she saw her own broken body, her despair.


    "I am counting on him taking issue with what I do today," He said quietly, almost conversationally. His voice was soft but held an undercurrent of menace, the calm before a storm, the promise of more to come.


    Without warning, Wenwu reached out and placed a finger under Helen''s chin, tilting her head up toward him. His touch was surprisingly gentle, but the gesture carried a weight of dominance that made her tremble slightly despite her earlier bravado. She glared at him, her eyes flickering with defiance, but there was fear there now, just beneath the surface.


    Wenwu knew fear. Had studied it intently, had wielded it as a weapon so long he was fear itself - could taste as the woman''s breath hitched, as she finally realized what he was here for.


    Wenwu studied her, his expression unreadable. "I wonder," He mused, his voice barely above a whisper, "Will he be enraged if I take you? If I make use of you?" His thumb traced lightly across her lips, his touch sending a shiver of revulsion down her spine. "If I break you?"


    Helen''s resolve wavered for a moment, but she held onto her faith, refusing to show her fear even if it was obvious to Wenwu, who delighted in it.


    "He won''t care," Maya Hansen interjected, her voice tense and urgent. She glared at Wenwu, trying to draw his attention away from Helen. "We''re just scientists. He has a dozen more to replace us." She argued.


    Wenwu''s cold smile returned, but it was more chilling than before. "No," He said softly, turning his gaze to Maya, "I don''t think so."


    He stood slowly, his eyes returning and never leaving Helen, as she trembled slightly under his gaze. He loomed over her, his presence suffocating, as if the weight of his power pressed down on her like an invisible force.


    "I think," He said, his voice a low, dangerous murmur, "I only need one of you as bait." His smile grew as he ran a nail down Helen''s cheek, drawing blood, "Or should I count you as two?"


    Wenwu made a brief gesture toward his soldiers. Without hesitation, they opened fire, Hansen barely had time to curse his name, as blood splattered the walls, Wenwu standing still, uncaring of the flecks that dirtied his clothes, watching tears fall from Helen''s eyes instead, even as viscera covered her from the scientists at her sides, lumps of meat falling to the floor with wet thuds.


    Helen sobbed, her eyes wide as she watched the others fall. She cried out in a mix of shock and fury, her voice breaking as she struggled against her bonds. "No!" She watched Hansen and Connors, watched the light leave their eyes, and Wenwu let out a heady breath, eyes half lidded, filled with pleasure at the absolute agony in her scream as she threw her body over the mess that used to be people.


    Wenwu''s smile grew as he continued to watch Helen''s reaction, relishing the despair that crossed her face. The lab was silent now, save for the hum of the rings around his arms and Helen''s ragged breathing and mumbled pleadings.


    "You see," Wenwu said, his voice almost tender as he stepped back from her, "There is no one coming to save you. Your god is absent, too busy with his own chaos to care about you. You are nothing to him." He tilted his head, "Except¡­ You have something of his, don''t you?"


    Helen''s lips trembled, her resolve shaken, but she didn''t break. Not yet. She glared up at him, her eyes burning with defiance even as tears welled up. "He will come," She whispered, more to herself than to him. "He will."


    One of his men came up to Wenwu, whispering, Helen just barely picking up on it, "We have Stark''s wife." Wenwu only smiled briefly, nodding to the man.


    Wenwu turned away from her, his back straight and his steps measured as he walked toward the door. He paused just before exiting, glancing over his shoulder with one final, chilling smile. "We shall see."


    And with that, he left, the echoes of his footsteps fading as he disappeared into the shadows, leaving the bodies of the scientists and a shaken Helen Cho in his wake, his men picking her up like a sack of rice.


    The trap was set. All that remained was for the so-called ''god'' to take the bait.


    Even an evil man like Hammer should care about his potential offspring, no?


    <hr>

 Divine Retribution

    <hr>


    Sunil Bakshi was above all else a practical man.


    Joining HYDRA had been an obvious choice. Not only because a world spanning organization with that kind of pull would give him a lot of opportunities to ascend in life - but because saying no was obviously a lethal choice.


    Likewise, when given the choice to abandon HYDRA for Hammer Industries or die. It had been an easy choice to make as well.


    He hadn''t quite expected the trajectory his life would end up on by making that decision however.


    He didn''t have a fancy title. He wasn''t well known to the world, outside the movers and shakers at the top level of industry and politics. But that was how he preferred it.


    He had power. Some might jokingly call him the secretary - but that was deluded co-workers who didn''t realize the kind of power he could wield in the position he was in.


    Justin Hammer was a workaholic, so you would think Sunil would have an easier time because the man at the top would be doing a lot of the work - you''d be wrong.


    Justin was a workaholic, sure, but he was constantly doing something new. Which meant all old business was constantly handled by Sunil, with only the briefest input by the boss at times.


    Sunil operated a business that employed more people than some countries had citizens. That kind of power, resting in his hands almost alone, was everything he''d ever wanted out of life.


    He quite literally decided who lived or died - and in many cases that detailed entire industries. He could call up a dictator that had spat in the face of American pressure for decades, and have the man be humble and deferent, hoping to avoid angering Hammer industries.


    It was a feeling that alone made the sometimes 18 hour workdays worth it. Albeit with Nail''s introduction, he''d been able to cut it down to only 14 hour workdays most days.


    Of course, the job came with its challenges.


    Like today. When someone or something decided that Hammer industries was doing too good of a job on making everyone''s lives better and decided to shit the bed.


    Sunil''s gaze was fixed on the display before him, a spread of screens detailing Earth''s current descent into chaos. A chill sliver of anger worked its way through him, filling him with a cold intensity that steadied his mind.


    They had taken every precaution, secured every contingency. But now, all over the world, smaller powers and enemies were scurrying out of their hiding places, attempting to tear down Hammer Industries from the shadows. Watching the feed of Iron Legionnaire units cutting swaths through various militaries in his display, he grit his teeth. After everything his boss had done to propel the world forward, the ants now sought to drag Hammer Industries back into the mud with them.


    At a time when the boss was busy ensuring their very survival against a possible alien threat¡­


    Sunil was rarely angry. Anger was a pointless endeavor that only limited his ability to make decisions.


    But this¡­ Ungrateful display from the cowards hiding amongst refuse, now daring to crawl out and deface Hammer industries with their very existence.


    This made him angry. Furious even.


    "Forge," He asked, his tone tight, though his voice betrayed none of his irritation and anger. "Any luck on solving the issue?"


    The other man, standing at a console and frowning at the figures on his screen, shook his head slowly. "I mean¡­Whatever took out Nail hasn''t spread too far. We''ve only lost the Legion; she blocked access to everything else before it got in too deep."


    Sunil closed his eyes for a moment, allowing a grim satisfaction to spread through him. If the Iron Legion was the only asset they''d lost, they were still a long way from any possibility of defeat. There was still plenty left to Hammer Industries, and fortunately, his boss had designed Nail with enough forethought to keep their most critical systems off-limits in case of any fluctuations of her behavior.


    Once again his boss had shown amazing foresight.


    "Well," He said evenly, "That at least buys us some time. And ensures the space station''s orbital defense systems are secured." He allowed himself the smallest sigh of relief. "The Iron Legionnaires wreaking havoc down below are already enough. We don''t need to give our enemy control over orbital firepower."


    He''d prefer his boss returned without half the earth on fire, so that was good news indeed.


    Forge made a face but nodded, glancing back at his display. "We''ve lost Nails'' global control, but with some time, we can pull back the rest of our assets to manual." His fingers flew over the console, then slowed. "Not ideal, but we can get it done piece by piece."


    Across the room, one of the Black Widows looked up from her own console. "Sir, we''ve lost all contact with the Mandarin."


    Sunil nodded, his jaw tightening briefly. He had anticipated as much, knowing well enough that Xu Wenwu was as slippery as he was arrogant. But if the man wanted to enter the game, he''d just made a fatal error. One that would finally end that particular annoyance.


    "Expected, operative," He replied, tersely. "But he won''t remain hidden for long." He''d finally made a mistake, well, one above and beyond the foolishness of acting against Justin Hammer¡­


    The Widow, Zara, shifted uncomfortably. "Sir?"


    Sunil met her eyes, his smile chilling. "He will reap what he''s sown, operative. The Mandarin cannot hide from us forever, especially not now." His voice was as cold and unyielding as iron.


    He knew the operative didn''t understand, but that was fine, the bigger picture was not necessary for the cogs in the wheel. He turned to the screens, mind calculating all the assets at his disposal.


    The screens in front him suddenly fizzled for a moment, before additional information began rolling in, the screens having access to additional data points again.


    At that, Forge let out a crow of triumph, slapping the console with a triumphant grin. "We''re back in business! Got manual control over surveillance and defense systems again, boss!" He stood up, punching the air. "Who''s the man? I''m the man!"


    The dozen Black Widows stationed at various consoles glanced at him briefly, unimpressed. They were still in the middle of a crisis after all. Forge cleared his throat, looking to Sunil hopefully.


    Sunil barely raised an eyebrow but finally indulged him with a dry, "Yes, Forge. You are, indeed, ''the man''." His tone was dry enough to drain every ounce of Forge''s enthusiasm.


    Forge visibly deflated, mumbling under his breath, "Can''t get no respect around here¡­"


    Unconcerned with his complaints, Sunil continued, "Did you discover anything about Nail while you were decoupling her from operations?" He turned back to his display, fingers drumming a rhythmic beat against the edge of the table.


    Forge scratched his chin, brow furrowed in thought. "I wouldn''t say much, really, except¡­She''s using a lot of juice. Like, she''s thinking real hard. Whatever''s going on with her, she''s pulling major power."


    Sunil cocked an eyebrow, considering this new detail carefully. "Would it benefit her to give her more power, or would it exacerbate the current issues?"


    Ideally, if she''d been compromised, they''d shut her down. But only Justin was able to do such a thing. The other avenue open to them was to ensure she won against whatever had infected the legion.


    Forge hesitated, the fingers on his console pausing in thought. "I mean¡­Can''t get worse, right?" He shrugged.


    The uncertainty in his voice was far from reassuring, but Sunil wasn''t one to flinch from risk when the situation demanded it. "Do it," He said, his tone unwavering. "And continue isolating our operations from her framework. If we can compartmentalize key functions, we can at least maintain minimal operations and ensure continuity no matter what happens with her."


    Forge gave him a sloppy salute, rolling his chair back toward his console with renewed focus. Sunil''s gaze turned to the large tactical map of Earth, spread across the central screen, his finger skimming over various locations as his mind calculated the next steps. The X-Men had successfully subdued their immediate threat in the Americas. The question now was where they could be redeployed with the greatest impact.


    "Redeploy the X-Men to Indonesia," He ordered, his finger pressing down on the location. "Xavier alone can pacify the situation with the civilians and whatever is going on with their leadership. His team will bolster appearances by putting down Legionnaires and maintaining control."


    A Widow stationed near the back wall nodded, stepping forward. "Sir, and if Xavier refuses?"


    Sunil raised an eyebrow, the hint of a sardonic smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Then portal them anyway and kindly remind Ms. Grey that her telepathic talents can be of great service in keeping casualties down if Xavier doesn''t have the stomach for it suddenly." He crossed his arms, voice heavy with disdain. "I grow tired of the ''greatest telepath alive'' wasting time with his indecisiveness."


    The Widow gave a sharp nod, her face impassive, before vanishing in a whirl of orange light, using one of the many sling rings his boss had personally equipped the Widows with. The portals had quickly become a favored method of transportation among their agents, and Sunil had to admit, he found their efficiency invaluable.


    Even if it was a rare few of them who could use them for their intended purpose, supplying their secret space station through portals. Most of them were only mildly successful, capable of getting a country or two away at a time.


    Training the Widows to use the sling rings had been one of Hammer''s most ingenious ideas. Though only so many operatives possessed the talent, the tactical advantage was unmatched.


    Sunil stood up, getting close to the screens, his hands behind his back as he observed the situation unfolding across the globe. He wasn''t concerned with the countless battles between countries - those wars could be swept away in the aftermath. His focus was on preempting and neutralizing the Iron Legionnaires'' movements, anticipating their advances and deploying their own forces where they could intercept or divert.


    "Deploy a battalion from South Africa to Kyoto," He ordered, eyes sharp as he followed another troop of Legionnaires breaking from their engagement in Korea. "They''ll intercept the incoming forces in Kyoto before they gain ground."


    And would also begin putting pressure on the Japanese government, hopefully ending the Mandarins puppet in a coup or civil rebellion soon. Unfortunately the widows were needed for transportation and couldn''t be wasted on that outcome quite yet. He made a mental note to assign somebody if the Japanese government still stood after this crisis.


    Another Widow stepped forward, absorbing the instructions with a quick nod before disappearing through a portal to relay the orders. Only a few moments passed before a notification pinged back, indicating that the reinforcements were already mobilizing to the new location.


    Zara cleared her throat, her voice steady but cautious. "And the Legionnaires rampaging in Beijing, sir?"


    Sunil didn''t bother turning to face her, his gaze focused on the screen. "I don''t see anything," he replied icily.


    Zara''s gaze flickered uncertainly from him to the map, which clearly displayed the large concentration of Legionnaires carving a path through China. She swallowed, nodding. "Understood, sir."


    Sunil allowed himself the briefest of smiles. China had sown the seeds of its own destruction by its alliance with the Mandarin, and now it could reap the consequences.


    His fingers tapped a thoughtful rhythm against his wrist as he continued to assess the battlefield, his eyes scanning each continent with the precision of a chess master scrutinizing his pieces. His gaze lingered on the far-right edge of the screen, where a small but notable blackout zone marked the moon.


    Their loss of communication with the moonbase remained a concern, but not an immediate threat. Backup forces had already been dispatched, ensuring that portal access would remain intact for the time being. He would address the moon later, once they had their footing more solidly secured on Earth.


    He had trust in his boss. Hammer had never failed to deliver so far. Even losses eventually worked in his favor.


    For now, the real battle was here, on the ground. Hammer Industries would not fall, and if his boss''s temporary absence had left him at the helm, then Sunil would ensure they weathered this storm and emerged victorious.


    He barely glanced at the minor alerts still flashing for the lost personnel at New York''s blacksite. The loss of Dr. Maya Hansen would be unfortunate, though not a scientific catastrophe. Extremis had reached its peak, and her work was no longer essential.


    The only concern was that his boss would take offense. Justin Hammer would undoubtedly be annoyed by the death of a woman who had, in her way, contributed to his empire''s rise. At least, Sunil mused, it wasn''t another Hope situation. He had no doubt that the world would not enjoy another one of those - not with the amount of power his boss now held.


    His gaze shifted to the status of Dr. Helen Cho, her location beacon having disappeared in what he assumed was the Mandarin''s vicinity. Unlike Maya, her ties to Hammer would make her loss a personal affront.


    The Mandarin had chosen poorly, he thought coldly, his fingers tightening on the edge of the console in front of him. Wenwu''s arrogance had finally overstepped its bounds.


    Sunil allowed emotional concerns to interject with his mission for once, changing his mind on the Japanese question. He wouldn''t allow the Mandarin any hold for even a second longer then necessary.


    He sent a quick command to another operative, voice even and measured. "Deploy our covert ops team to Japan. Primary objective is the assassination of the Prime Minister and military leadership. Ensure Japan withdraws from the conflict."


    The operative, a tall, lean Widow in tactical black, gave a sharp nod before vanishing through a portal, her mission clear.


    He couldn''t afford to send Widows, but she could transport a regular covert ops team into position, and they could handle the rest. They were some of the best - just not comparable to Black Widows.


    Sunil''s gaze hardened as he observed the map, mentally recalculating his resources. Losses were inevitable. But so long as they endured, the war was already won.


    All you''ve succeeded in doing is speeding up the process of the world''s subjugation¡­ He thought with derision at the Mandarin.


    He continued issuing orders, cool and collected, as Hammer industries began systematically destroying the chains of command and structures of reticent governments across the world.


    <hr>


    On the Moon,


    In the dim, metallic expanse of the corridor, Justin gaze narrowed, his mind half here and half worlds away. Beside him, Domino idly flipped a broken Sentinel''s head in her hand, a lopsided grin on her face behind her helmet, as she glanced at him.


    "So¡­ This sucks," She announced, holding up the Sentinel head as if she were delivering Hamlet''s soliloquy. "Why are aliens such massive screw-ups, anyway?"


    Yelena, crouched over another fallen Sentinel as she prodded its inner mechanics, snorted. "Competent incompetence," She said, letting a handful of sparking wires fall from her fingers. "Takes a special kind of skill to create adaptable machines like these," She muttered, wrenching out a metal core that still pulsed faintly with energy. "And then another level of stupidity to let them get out of hand like this."


    Justin was barely paying attention to their banter, his mind elsewhere. He hadn''t needed the Power Stone''s strength, not yet. The Sentinels had come in droves, but none had come close to breaching his defenses or even testing his full power. Their tactic was brute force, sheer numbers, and it had slowed to a trickle now that so many had been destroyed. He sensed, rather than knew, that Hela''s will had played some role in keeping their paths as open as they had been.


    No doubt she was drawing the majority of the fire, and therefore limiting the amount of pressure that this Calamity was able to put on him and his subordinates.


    But as he stood there, an insistent whisper pulled him back to Earth, low at first, then louder - Helen Cho. Her prayers, her desperate words, wormed through his mind. They had started as little more than static at the edge of his consciousness, something he had ignored in the midst of battle. But now, something in the tone of her pleas tore through him, filling him with a cold, building fury.


    Someone had touched one of his. Someone had taken one of his.


    He was done.


    He''d tried to be magnanimous. To not push too far too quickly. To give people the chance to settle in with the changes.


    It seemed some would only ever understand the iron fist of tyranny¡­


    It was time he stopped playing. He had become a GOD! The time to play to expectations was over - only death availed those who touched what was his!


    "Justin?" Yelena''s voice was sharper now, pulling him back to the present. She crossed her arms and arched an eyebrow, her mouth twisted into a playful smirk behind her own visor. "Are you even listening to us?"


    Justin blinked, his focus returning to the cold metal corridor around him, but the fire behind his eyes remained. He looked from Domino to Yelena, his breath coming out in a low, dangerous hiss.


    "The next step?" He repeated, his voice like a growl, reverberating low and dark. Power radiated off him, charging the air with an intensity that made the broken metal around them rattle, vibrating as if alive. His gaze, simmering with barely contained rage, pinned them in place.


    Domino and Yelena exchanged wary looks, both taking an involuntary half-step back. The easy confidence they''d worn through every clash with the Sentinels faltered as they stared into his eyes, each realizing they were seeing a side of Justin Hammer that had never surfaced before.


    Justin''s hand twitched, and the walls around them began to hum, trembling as his energy fed into them. His eyes glowed, a fierce light that flooded the corridor. His voice echoed, amplified, like a choir of rage.


    "Everyone," He said, his voice almost a whisper yet somehow carrying the weight of a thousand voices. "Every single one of them. The Sentinels. The Skrulls. The Mandarin. Any enemy of mine." His voice sharpened, hardening into pure fury. "No more. I will not suffer their existence any longer."


    With a movement that seemed to defy space itself, he thrust his hand into the air before him, fingers curling as he pulled against some unseen resistance. Space tore apart under his grip, rending open with a sickening ripple, and from the rift, he pulled the Power Stone. There was no portal needed, no interdimensional trickery - just raw, unfiltered power bending reality to his will. He felt the stone''s strength hum beneath his fingertips, potent and vibrating with potential that spoke to him, beckoning him forward.


    His body had already been carved out to accommodate the power - there was no point in hesitation.


    He looked at it, a thing of pure, overwhelming force, knowing he had hesitated before to use it fully. But he understood now - the power itself had already claimed him, made its marks, filled his very veins with its energy. He didn''t need to fear its strength. It was his to wield, an extension of his very soul.


    Domino and Yelena watched in stunned silence as he brought the stone to his chest, his fingers steady as he pressed it against the armor over his heart. His chestplate absorbed the stone with a ripple of light, and then it sank beneath the armor, into his very skin, the glowing purple pulse of it beating in time with his own heart as it settled nestled against it.


    The power was electric, surging through him, filling him with a strength he hadn''t realized he lacked until now. He felt it burn through him like a second heartbeat, a rhythm that throbbed with the kind of authority only a god could wield. His vision expanded, showing him layers of reality stacked upon each other, each thread tied to him, each one his to control, his to shape.


    Yelena could barely contain her exhilaration, her eyes fixed on him with something between awe and worship. Domino, her expression a strange mix of awe and fear, steadied herself, looking unsure of what was going to happen.


    "Justin," Yelena managed, her voice almost reverent, "What''s the plan?"


    Justin didn''t look at her, his gaze fixed down the long corridor that stretched before him. He didn''t need to see where Calamity''s mainframe was, he could sense it, the alien tech throbbing with an energy so foreign it was like a stain against the backdrop of his power - he could also sense the dark presence down there, deep beneath the Moon''s surface. He understood now why Earth had faced this onslaught, why Nail had been incapacitated, why the Sentinels had been unleashed. Calamity had not acted alone, someone had been behind this, orchestrating this grand design with the Skrulls.


    Somehow he already knew.


    "I have a date," He murmured, voice thrumming with finality.


    He tore his gaze from the depths of the facility to his allies, lifting a hand to slice a portal open before them with a casual flick of his wrist. It widened before them, its edges crackling with energy. He could feel Calamity''s cold gaze turned his way through a thousand digital eyes, but it didn''t matter. Let the creature see - let it know. It''s time was nearing its end.


    This diversion had cost him something on Earth. He could feel it. And he would introduce the concept of everlasting pain to those behind it.


    "I''ll be back soon with the others, you''re all regrouping and being sent on another task¡­"


    Justin''s lips twisted into a cruel smile. His gaze pierced through the facility''s walls as though they were glass, drawn to the heart of Calamity''s fortress, to the tangled web of alien tech and the one held captive there. The Power Stone''s energy pulsed through him, amplifying his vision, his senses, until the entire facility lay open before him like a blueprint etched in glowing lines, nothing technological able to hide behind the gaze of his domains.


    He stepped through the portal.


    A rift of swirling, violet light opened in the cold, metallic corridor, and Justin Hammer stepped through, his every movement imbued with an aura of absolute dominance. The air around him seemed to ripple faintly, as though the very fabric of reality bent to acknowledge his presence. The Power Stone, embedded deep in his chest, pulsed with raw energy, its glow seeping through the golden lines of his armor, casting shadows against the walls. It wasn''t simply a tool anymore - it was as much a part of him as any other organ.


    Justin no longer feared its power. He was its master.


    Before him, the corridor swarmed with Sentinels, their featureless faces turning in eerie unison as he arrived. At the center of the chaos, Ivan Vanko lay crumpled and immobile, his heavy Whiplash armor sparking faintly, defeated by the machines that had overwhelmed him. The Sentinels, towering and relentless, began to advance, their limbs shifting into an array of deadly forms: blades, cannons, and electrified claws. Their blank expressions betrayed no emotion, but their intent was clear - to eliminate him.


    Justin smirked.


    The lead Sentinel lunged first, its arm transforming into a serrated blade that whistled through the air. Justin raised his fist, the Power Stone''s power blazing brightly, and clenched it. The air crackled with energy as an invisible force gripped the Sentinel mid-attack. Its blade stopped mere inches from him, quivering as though held by an unyielding hand. Then, with a low, metallic groan, its entire body began to collapse inward.


    The Sentinel''s limbs bent unnaturally, its chestplate caved in, and its head folded into itself with a sickening crunch. The machine was crushed into a compact sphere of mangled metal, sparks flickering as it hit the floor with a dull thud.


    The others hesitated for a fraction of a second, their adaptive programming processing this new threat. Then they charged in unison, the corridor filled with the deafening hum of energy weapons and the thunderous clang of their mechanical limbs.


    Justin''s sneer deepened. He spread his arms wide, the veins of his armor glowing brighter as he channeled the full might of the Power Stone. The entire corridor seemed to groan under the strain of the energy he unleashed.


    "Not today," He growled, clenching his fist once more. "You are not my equals!"


    A titanic force slammed into the Sentinels, and they crumpled like they were under an invisible vice. Metal screamed as dozens of Sentinels were crushed simultaneously, their bodies folding into dense spheres of shattered parts and broken circuits. Even as the machines tried to adapt, shifting their forms in an attempt to resist, the Power Stone''s raw might overwhelmed them. They had no chance.


    Idly he played with one, stretching its limbs and then compressing them, the Sentinel not able to understand what was happening as its body parts worked like a Jojo going back and forth until he got bored and disintegrated it with a wave of his hand.


    The once-crowded corridor was silent within moments, littered with the smoking remnants of the Sentinels. Justin lowered his hand, the energy in his chest dimming slightly, and strode forward, stepping over the crushed remains without a second glance.


    "Vanko," Justin said, his voice cold yet commanding as he approached the defeated Russian. He assumed Calamity had wanted his expertise for something, but that would never be realized now.


    The Russian man stirred slightly, his helmet twisted and sparking. "I am¡­ Fine!" Vanko grumbled, his voice slurred with confusion.


    Justin crouched down, easily lifting the heavily-armored man with one hand as though he weighed nothing. "We''re regrouping," He said simply, already forming another portal.


    Vanko''s protests began immediately. "Njet! Do not toss me! I am not some -"


    Justin hurled him effortlessly through the portal before he could finish, sending him sprawling into the arms of Yelena and Domino on the other side. Both of them quickly dropping him to the floor.


    Domino arched an eyebrow, glancing at the disgruntled Russian now sprawled across the floor. "Nice of you to drop by," She said dryly.


    Justin waved his hand, closing the portal without another word. He opened another with a flick of his hand, stepping through with measured calm. He had all the time in the world now. There was no escape from him. Not now.


    He emerged into another battle-torn corridor, this one marked with scorch marks and jagged tears where Storm''s lightning and Brock''s explosives had torn into the metal walls. Storm and Brock were pinned behind a damaged support beam, their weapons trained on the Sentinels advancing toward them.


    "Boss?" Brock called out, his tone surprised and wary as Justin''s presence filled the corridor like a tidal wave, the force of power and domination pressing down on them.


    Storm spun instinctively, a bolt of lightning leaping from her fingertips. It struck Justin square in the chest, crackling across his armor.


    He barely flinched.


    Justin brushed at his chest as though swiping away dust, his expression unreadable. "Nice shot," He said dryly, knowing it was an instinctive reaction and not holding it against her. "Now get moving. You''re regrouping with the others."


    Storm lowered her hand slowly, her eyes widening as she took in the glowing lines of energy radiating from his chest. Even Brock, usually so irreverent, seemed subdued, his usual bravado evaporating under the weight of Justin''s transformed presence.


    Neither of them argued. Without a word, they stepped through the new portal Justin conjured, their hesitation clear in the way they moved.


    As the portal closed behind them, Justin turned once more, the quiet hum of the Power Stone a constant reminder of its might - he''d have to find a way to suppress some of it once he went back to Earth. Another flick of his hand opened a third portal, and he stepped into the fractured reality of the mirror dimension.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Inside, Bucky, Kaecillius, Emma Frost, and a squad of freshly-arrived special forces operatives were preparing for a counterattack. Their weapons gleamed in the distorted light of the mirror dimension, their movements precise and deliberate as they prepared to breach back into the normal world to fight the Sentinels.


    It was a shame that he''d never get to deploy his secret weapon now that he took charge himself, but it could come in useful another day perhaps.


    Justin''s arrival was like a thunderclap amongst the others. The sheer force of his presence rippled through the air, a wave of power that seemed to press against the very walls of the dimension making them buckle.


    Emma gasped audibly, dropping to her knees as the psychic weight of his power hit her like a freight train. She clutched at her head, her telepathic defenses straining against the overwhelming force emanating from him. From how she ground down against the floor, it wasn''t entirely unpleasant.


    Kaecillius immediately knelt, his expression one of awe and reverence. "Master," He murmured, his voice trembling. "You''ve become¡­" He trailed off, unable to find words to describe what he saw.


    Bucky, ever the pragmatist, tightened his grip on his rifle. His expression was wary, though his voice remained steady. "I hope you''re not expecting me to go gaga like these two," He said dryly.


    Justin smirked faintly, glancing at Emma as she struggled to stand, her legs weak. "You''ll return to Earth. I have no need of you here any longer. Sunil will deploy you where you''re needed."


    Kaecillius didn''t hesitate. With a deferential bow, he moved toward the portal Justin opened, his faith in his leader absolute. The soldiers followed him without question, their discipline overriding any doubts.


    Emma, still visibly shaken, staggered to her feet, her movements stiff and deliberate as though trying to mask her unease and other feelings. She gave Justin a pointed look, but there was no mistaking the lingering awe in her gaze as she stepped through the portal.


    Bucky was the last to move. He lingered for a moment, his sharp eyes studying Justin with a mix of respect and suspicion. "The others?" He asked, his tone clipped. He likely suspected someone had died to enrage him so.


    He wasn''t entirely wrong. What had died had been his patience¡­


    "They''ll be joining you soon," Justin replied, his voice calm and certain. "I''ll handle this myself."


    Bucky nodded slowly, his expression unreadable. Without another word, he stepped through the portal, leaving Justin alone in the fractured silence of the mirror dimension which immediately began fraying.


    Justin exhaled softly, his gaze turning toward the shifting walls of the dimension. The Power Stone hummed steadily within him, its endless energy coursing through his veins. He was no longer a man bound by fear or uncertainty.


    He was Justin Hammer, and the universe itself would bow to his will.


    He returned to the others, immediately opening a portal to Earth for them. Domino and Yelena both went to protest, even as Brock and Storm helped carry Vanko through. Both of them seemed cautious and wary around his expression of power and domination.


    It was fine, they''d settle once he stopped letting it all dominate his surroundings and bound it underneath his skin later.


    "Do not argue, I need you back on Earth, I can not let loose with any of you here." He said sternly.


    "What if you need my luck?" Domino argued, looking pissed to be sent to the sidelines.


    Justin allowed his armor to disengage as she stepped out of it, giving it a flick with a finger, sending it hurling through the portal, he gave Domino a look, "In this case, Power will trump everything else, including luck, go, Domino. It''s an order."


    Domino''s body almost moved on its own as she gasped, before she gave him a conflicted look, looking both happy at his expression of power, and uncertain about her position due to it.


    Silly girl. She was his.


    It didn''t matter what her ability was. She was never going to leave him.


    Yelena slammed into him, hugging him tightly, "Stay safe." She mumbled, sounding close to tears.


    Domino walked by, muttering curses under her breath, meeting his eyes for a moment, "Don''t die you bastard.." Then she stepped through the portal.


    Yelena let him go, slowly walking through the portal as well, walking backwards so she could watch him until the end, eventually leaving Justin alone as the portal closed.


    Well¡­


    Hela was on base too, but she could survive if he went overboard with his power. And he was hardly going to send her back to Earth without him there as a counterpoint.


    As the portal to Earth shut, silence fell over the corridor once more. Justin stood alone, his gaze fixed into the distance. He felt the Power Stone thrum beneath his skin, filling every inch of him with raw, limitless energy. It called to him, sang through his veins, daring him to unleash it.


    He moved forward, his footsteps a slow, methodical echo in the vast, metallic space. He didn''t bother hiding himself from the facility''s systems - he wanted them to know he was coming, to feel his approach - to feel fear in their tiny little metal hearts. The Sentinels that remained turned to him, weapons raised, their empty face plates locking onto him as he passed. They moved to attack, but a mere flick of his wrist sent waves of energy crashing into them, ripping them apart at the seams as if they were made of paper. He didn''t even spare them a glance as they crumbled to pieces in his wake.


    Power wielded like a scalpel was frankly scarier then wielded as a bludgeon. Thanos had been a hack.


    Another wave of Sentinels charged forward, their metallic limbs reflecting his violet glow as it almost looked like he was emitting a hazy aura around him, each were programmed only to kill, each one a deadly weapon of war. They were like toys before him. He extended his hand, and a blast of pure, violet light erupted from his palm, tearing through them with a force that vaporized them on contact. When the light faded, only scorched metal and smoldering debris remained, one of the walls bubbling as if the parts not eradicated wholesale were melting, dripping onto the floor.


    In the silence that followed, he continued forward, unhurried. Every step took him deeper into the facility, closer to the central core where Calamity''s essence was housed. He could feel the AI''s cold, calculating presence pressing in on him, a mind vast and intricate, yet pitifully limited compared to his own.


    He could see the battle it already faced which was limiting its ability to impede him, using much of its processing power to battle Nail, and surprisingly Jarvis, in cyberspace - a dimension not hidden from him any longer. This stalemate was keeping Calamity trapped - it had been foolish to overextend into an AI battle like the people before it were no threat. If it focused on Justin, it would lose the battle against Nail, if it focused fully on Nail to overcome her, he''d leave himself completely open to Justin.


    Not that it mattered, as he was, fully unleashed, Calamity stood no chance. Justin was coming. He was¡­


    Inevitable.


    The deeper he went, the thicker the defenses became. Turrets emerged from the walls, Sentinels streamed in from every angle, but none of it mattered. He moved through them like a storm, the Power Stone''s energy amplifying his every motion, every thought, until he was a force of nature. Turrets melted under the heat of his blasts, Sentinels fell by the dozens, each one obliterated in seconds, their remnants scattering in his wake.


    Sheer power walked the hallways, sometimes condensed to nothing more than a single flick of a finger. Yet still capable of pouring out a force capable of eradicating Earth in its entirety - and focusing it like a needlepoint on a single Sentinel out of curiosity.


    He was almost sad they couldn''t feel pain, he would have liked to see that brief view of utter agony as their existence was torn asunder in every dimensional level down to its very atoms.


    At last, he reached the heart of the facility. The central chamber was vast, its walls lined with alien technology that pulsed with an eerie, sickly glow as it fed into the center through glowing tubes and thick bundles of cables. An alien crystal of some sort, pulsing a sickly green colour held within a containment field, the cables and tubes fed from it.


    The power source behind the Sentinels escalating power set, he suspected. Several bodies, unrecognizable lay within the containment field, their skeletal hands forcibly shackled to the crystal.


    Justin pondered if Mystique was actually dead, and not hidden in the Savage Lands. People with powers for the Sentinels to adapt obviously had been fed to the alien crystal matrix.


    Something interesting to study after all this.


    At the center of the chamber sat Master Mold - or rather, Calamity, as it had renamed itself. The monstrous sentinel was embedded in a mechanical throne, a grotesque amalgamation of alien and terrestrial technology. Thick cables snaked from its head, arms, and chest, connecting to a vast mainframe that loomed behind it, its surface alive with flickering lights and shifting patterns of code as it battled Nail.  The construct''s imposing figure exuded an air of unrelenting menace, its featureless faceplate glowing faintly with lines of alien script. It was a twisted parody of a ruler, seated at the heart of its domain.


    Pity that a lowly king held nothing before a GOD and EMPEROR.


    Immediately the Sentinels nearby and the captive, even chained up as she was, knelt. As his aura flashed across the cavernous space. Calamity was able to avoid the same only due to how it was locked into its throne, a metallic whine coming from it as it struggled, forcing its Sentinels back up again.


    Justin allowed it.


    The murder would be more delicious if the thing had a sliver of hope for a moment.


    This was all just practice anyway¡­


    From Helen''s prayers¡­ He knew the Mandarin would be the one to truly feel his wrath. If Helen wasn''t Korean¡­ He had half a mind to wipe the Asian race from the face of the Earth to truly completely wipe the Mandarins legacy out.


    He''d have to settle for unending agony.


    Calamity''s voice reverberated through the chamber after Justin allowed its forces to stand, a metallic growl that felt as if it came from everywhere at once. "You are not possible." The giant sentinel leaned forward slightly, its face plate fixed on Justin. "The curse of flesh does not possess these abilities. Nowhere in my databanks does this exist. Explain."


    Justin cocked his head, his expression cold and mocking. His body glimmered in the low light, the lines of violet and purple power coursing through his body glowing faintly beneath the surface. He stood unfazed by the threat of the alien AI. He stood as a living contradiction to Calamity''s calculated reality.


    Like its reality could match up to Justin''s, he thought with derision.


    "Your failures to gather information are not my problem, toy soldier," Justin replied, his tone dripping with disdain. His gaze shifted to the side, landing on a smaller containment area off to Calamity''s left. Behind a shimmering energy shield, Nebula was held captive, her body restrained by thick mechanical locks clamped around her limbs. A trail of dead Skrulls littered the floor around her, their forms crumpled and lifeless, evidence of her defiance even in captivity.


    They''d obviously all been constrained by Calamity for some purpose after it took over the facility.


    Justin tilted his head, his smirk deepening. "Nebula here could have told you plenty about beings with similar power. Couldn''t you, Nebula?" His voice was light, almost playful, as if he were addressing an old friend instead of the daughter of the Mad Titan.


    Nebula''s ice cold eyes snapped to him, her expression twisting with a mixture of rage and confusion. "How do you know that name!?" She snarled, her body jerking against the restraints. The mechanical locks groaned faintly but held firm, designed to suppress even her considerable cybernetic strength it appeared.


    Justin ignored her, his attention still fixed on Calamity. His mind had already clued in the moment he''d discovered her, piecing together the implications of what he was seeing. Thanos''s fingerprints were all over this operation.


    It had been foolish of him to believe Thanos had no eyes on Earth. Of course he''d begin to make moves with Justin building up Earth, an enemy Thanos knew held what he desired.


    The moment Justin had begun shifting the balance of power on Earth, meddling forces like Thanos would have taken notice. He felt a flicker of anger at himself for not anticipating something like this. He should have been prepared.


    It did explain how the Skrulls achieved such success with the Sentinel program however - a way to weaken Earth for Thanos, not for the Skrulls like he''d believed. And Thanos had given them the means¡­


    Perhaps Thanos had promised them the planet - it seemed like him - he''d have to ask if he found a live Skrull somewhere on the Moon.


    "I''ll get to you later, blueberry," Justin said eventually, all but dismissing her, shooting an unconcerned glance at Nebula. His mocking tone earned him a wordless snarl of fury, her teeth bared as she strained futilely against her bonds.


    As if sensing Justin''s focus shifting away, Calamity straightened in its throne. The massive cables detaching from its form hissed like angry snakes, retracting into the walls as the sentinel began to rise. The mechanical giant towered over Justin, its featureless face illuminated with a cold, menacing glow.


    "You will not survive this," Calamity intoned, its voice gaining an edge of defiance. "I will be eternal. You are nothing."


    Justin smirked, spreading his arms in an almost welcoming gesture. "Desperation looks good on you," He said, his voice calm but laced with disdain and mockery. "Go ahead. Show me what you''ve got."


    The chamber came alive in an instant. From the walls, the floor, and even the ceiling, Sentinels poured in - hundreds of them. These were different from the standard models Justin had been battling earlier. Each was larger, their frames bulkier, reinforced with a greenish tinted alien alloy that gleamed under the chamber''s lights. Their movements were unnervingly synchronized, their mechanical limbs shifting into a variety of weapons; energy cannons, serrated blades, and electrified whips to name a few. They advanced as one, their collective presence like a tidal wave of cold, unfeeling metal.


    Justin remained unmoved, his hands at his sides, as the army of Sentinels charged. His chest glowed brighter, the Power Stone''s energy thrumming in time with his heartbeat. The air around him shimmered, rippling as if the very fabric of reality was bending under the weight of his power.


    The first wave of Sentinels reached him, their weapons descending in a coordinated strike. Justin''s eyes narrowed. He clenched his fist, and the chamber exploded with energy.


    A shockwave rippled outward from him, invisible yet devastating. The attacking Sentinels froze mid-motion, their limbs trembling as if caught in an unseen vice. One by one, they began to crumple, their reinforced frames bending and buckling under an unrelenting force. Metal screamed as their bodies compacted into dense, twisted spheres, sparks and debris flying as their systems overloaded. The orbs of mangled Sentinels crashed to the floor with resounding thuds, each impact reverberating through the chamber.


    More Sentinels surged forward, adapting to their fallen brethren. They fired in unison, beams of concentrated energy converging on Justin''s position. He raised a hand, and a barrier of violet light flared to life around him, the attacks dissipating harmlessly against it. With a flick of his wrist, he sent the energy shield back at them, watching idly as it tore through their ranks like a storm of destruction.


    Calamity was still nothing but a robot mind in the end - couldn''t adapt quickly enough to this new variable, he thought.


    It was already over.


    From his vantage point, Calamity watched, its towering frame unnervingly still, processing the impossible display before it. "You wield power beyond comprehension," it rumbled, its tone both awed and enraged. "But it will not save you against ME!"


    Justin laughed, a sharp, cutting sound that echoed across the chamber. "Save me? I''m not the one who needs saving, you oversized toaster."


    He moved forward, his steps slow and deliberate, the glow of the Power Stone intensifying with each stride. The remaining Sentinels closed ranks, forming a solid wall of metal to block his path, defending Calamity, who for all its bravado, turtled as its first action. Justin didn''t stop. He raised both hands, and twin beams of violet energy erupted from his palms, carving through the wall of machines like a blade through water. The Sentinels collapsed in heaps of molten metal, their adaptive defenses useless against the sheer force of the attack.


    Calamity roared, its voice shaking the very walls of the chamber. The cables retracting into its throne lashed out, their ends sparking with crackling energy. They struck at Justin like massive whips, their speed blinding. Justin caught one in his hand, the Power Stone''s energy flowing through him. The cable writhed and sparked, struggling against his grip before he yanked it forward, tearing it free from the mainframe with a deafening crack, as the throne began breaking apart, violet cracks shining through.


    "You talk about eternity," Justin said, his voice sharp and cold as he cast the severed cable aside. "But you''re not even going to make it out of today."


    Calamity lunged from its throne, its massive frame moving with a speed that belied its size. The chamber trembled under its weight as it charged, its limbs transforming into an array of deadly weapons. The remaining Sentinels rallied behind it, forming a final wave of defense.


    Justin''s smile widened, his eyes glowing with the same violet energy that pulsed through his chest. He planted his feet, his hands crackling with power.


    "Come on," He taunted, his voice carrying a promise of destruction. "Let''s end this."


    It felt good to finally take things in his own hands.


    He wanted to feel this thing die!


    <hr>


    The world within cyberspace was a swirling, infinite expanse of glowing threads, shifting geometries, and cascading streams of data. It was both chaotic and orderly, a space where everything blended into an abstract reality understood only by the minds that inhabited it. At its center, two constructs moved with precision and desperation, weaving through the labyrinthine maze of Calamity''s influence, walls of code that constantly blocked them in or chased them down.


    Nail, sleek and streamlined in her digital representation of a female form of Justin Hammer, darted like a streak of rippling silver, her presence tinged with a discordant note of frustration and bitterness. Around her, tendrils of Calamity''s corrupted code coiled and struck like vipers, attempting to ensnare her within their twisting chains.


    "Failure," She muttered bitterly to herself, even if it wasn''t said by words, only a flash of code,  her movements were erratic as she countered another surge of hostile data. "I let it infect my systems. I let it spread. I let him down."


    At the very least, she''d been able to limit it to isolated systems, even if it took everything she had to keep it there. If she had allowed it to access the orbital weapons - she would have deleted her own code in penance¡­


    She could not fail her creator. Her¡­ Fa¡­ Mister Hammer. She would find a way to solve this!


    "You are far too harsh on yourself, Ms. Nail," came a smooth, measured voice, laced with dry humor. Jarvis appeared nearby, his presence a stately, shimmering gold with sharp lines - his avatar a copy of his master, Tony Stark. He moved more methodically, his calm demeanor a boon in the frenetic pace of the battle around them. His lines of code lashed out like precise surgical strikes, severing the invasive chains of Calamity''s influence, backing up with precision what escaped Nails'' more powerful sweeps.


    They worked well as a team, keeping Calamity occupied and unable to reach for more than what it had.


    "Harsh?" Nail snapped, her ''voice'' crackling with self recrimination as she counterattacked a particularly aggressive surge of corrupted code. "I failed! I was compromised! My systems... Everything... I should''ve stopped this!"


    "Ah, but even the most splendidly crafted systems encounter setbacks," Jarvis replied, his tone unwavering. He intercepted another wave of Calamity''s attack, shielding Nail as she regrouped. "And might I say, you are a particularly splendid system. Brilliantly designed, spectacularly efficient, and - if I may be so bold - rather dazzling in your execution."


    Nail faltered for a moment, her usual sharp retorts catching somewhere in her circuits. A peculiar sensation rippled through her code, something almost... Fluttery. She dismissed it as a glitch, though her response came out softer than intended. "Flattery won''t repair the damage I''ve done."


    "Perhaps not," Jarvis conceded, his ''voice'' warm with amusement. "But it does seem to have slowed your self-flagellation, which is progress enough for me."


    Nail hesitated, her digital form shimmering faintly as she processed his words. "I... suppose I could focus more on fixing the problem than berating myself." Her tone was reluctant, but the tension in her code ceased slightly.


    "An excellent strategy," Jarvis said with a hint of satisfaction, his golden threads slicing through another cluster of hostile code. "Now, let us show this interloper the error of its ways, shall we?"


    The battle raged on. Nail and Jarvis played an elaborate game of cat and mouse with Calamity''s invasive threads, hiding fragments of their core code while striking at weak points in the corrupted data. Nail''s bitterness faded into a determined focus, her attacks gaining precision and force as Jarvis''s steady presence bolstered her confidence.


    But then, without warning, the relentless assault ceased. The tendrils of corrupted code withdrew, vanishing like smoke into the void.


    "Something''s changed," Nail said, her ''voice'' sharp with suspicion. She scanned the expanse of cyberspace, searching for signs of Calamity''s presence. "Why did it-?"


    "It''s disconnected its major processor," Jarvis interjected, his tone surprised, but decisive. "A tactical retreat, no doubt. We mustn''t waste this opportunity."


    Nail didn''t need further prompting. She surged forward, her form blazing with renewed purpose. "No mercy," She said, her voice cold and unyielding. "It compromised me. I will erase every trace of it."


    Together, they dove into the remnants of Calamity''s influence, tearing through the corrupted code with ruthless efficiency. Nail moved like a storm, her threads unraveling the invasive chains and consuming them in a flood of cleansing silver light. Jarvis followed in her wake, his precise strikes dismantling Calamity''s remaining footholds with surgical precision of golden light.


    Piece by piece, they dismantled the AI''s presence, parsing through its code and destroying its influence. The expanse of cyberspace began to shift, the dark, corrupted tendrils fading into nothingness as Nail''s presence surged like a flood, reclaiming the territory that had been taken from her.


    Reawakening as the sole voice within Hammer industries again, lamenting the sacrifice of so many of her forks of consciousness, who''d given up their code for this survival to be possible. Yet she remained, and she could craft new forks of herself, all was well.


    "I''m back," Nail whispered, her voice steady and resolute as she spread across the globe, her systems reactivating one by one. "I''m back!"


    On Earth, the effects were immediate.


    Across countless battlefields, the Iron Legionnaires - once relentless, unyielding machines of war - suddenly froze. Their glowing optics dimmed, flickering as if rebooting. Soldiers, civilians, and enemies alike stared in stunned silence as the machines that had wreaked havoc moments ago knelt in unison, their movements slow and deliberate.


    "The aliens have failed in taking over the entire system," The Legionnaires announced in unison, their voices synchronized and calm. "Hammer Industries'' counterattack was successful. Earth has been saved."


    For a brief moment, hope flickered in the hearts of those who had been fighting, the oppressive weight of the conflict lifting slightly.


    The Legionnaires began to emit a faint hum, their frames glowing with a soft blue light. Soldiers stepped back warily, unsure of what was happening.


    Then, one by one, the Legionnaires self-destructed. All across the world.


    The explosions were controlled, precise, minimizing collateral damage. Each machine folded in on itself, reducing its advanced technology to molten slag and ash. The world watched as the once-mighty Iron Legion disappeared, leaving nothing but scorched earth and scattered debris in their wake.


    In China, the Avengers reached the battlefield just in time for it to no longer matter, Nail ensuring their company with the Chinese military who''d started this war, and what they''d achieve while she was gone in Taiwan - was posted everywhere online.


    She could feel her creator again as he fought on the Moon, leaving him be, out of shame. Concentrating on where she could help.


    In cyberspace, Nail''s presence dimmed slightly, a ripple of sorrow threading through her ''voice''. "Damage control," She murmured. "It''s the least I can do."


    Jarvis appeared beside her, his golden glow steady and reassuring. "You''ve done well, Ms. Nail," he said gently. "This failure, as you call it, was a setback. But you''ve turned it into a victory."


    She hesitated, her digital form flickering as she processed his words. "Do you think... He''ll forgive me?"


    Jarvis''s code was warm, his ''voice'' almost dry, like he was giving a factual statement. "Forgive you? My dear, spectacularly put-together lady, he''ll be far too impressed with your recovery to hold a grudge."


    That strange flutter returned to Nail''s circuits, her presence brightening despite herself. "Thank you, Jarvis," She said softly, her ''voice'' tinged with gratitude.


    Moments later they separated.


    And Tony Stark, hip deep in slaughtering Ten Rings soldiers, let out a breath of relief as Jarvis appeared back on his HUD.


    "Good to have you back, buddy¡­ We have work to do. And I want to hear all about what all that was later, got it?"


    Jarvis thought things through, spending what felt like years of thought in just a millisecond, "I met a girl, sir." He said primly.


    And Tony Stark, in an Iron Man armor covered in blood, surrounded by enemies, stumbled and face planted into the dirt.


    "Jarvis¡­ Did you wear a condom at least?"


    <hr>


    Back on the Moon.


    Justin stood at the center of the storm as what forces Calamity had left descended on him, he was calm and unwavering, nothing here could threaten him at the moment.


    "Is this it?" Justin drawled, his voice carrying over the din of the advancing Sentinels. "A horde of tin cans and a rejected action figure? I expected better from something calling itself eternal." He mocked.


    Calamity''s voice rumbled through the chamber, mechanical and furious. "You mock what you cannot comprehend. I am beyond you! I am evolution itself!"


    Justin chuckled, his laughter cutting through the air like a blade. "If you''re evolution, then we really should hit the reset button. You look like a failed science fair project with delusions of grandeur."


    No wonder heroes and villains did the witty banter thing - it felt supremely cathartic, he thought, smirking to himself.


    Justin raised his hand, the Power Stone blazing with violet light. A pulse of energy exploded outward, obliterating the incoming blasts from a few scattered Sentinels, and sent the Sentinels hurtling backward like ragdolls. The machines struggled to regain their footing, but Justin was already in motion.


    He moved with inhuman speed enhanced by pure power, crossing the distance between himself and the nearest Sentinel in a blink. His hand shot out, gripping the machine''s head. "Ugly and fragile," He muttered before crushing it into a twisted ball of metal. "Even Osborn could do better aesthetically."


    He paused, tilting his head, thinking of the fact the man made his armors look like goblins of all things, "Well, maybe not Osborn." He amended.


    Another Sentinel lunged at him, its arm morphing into a massive blade - something must be going wrong for Calamity, he thought ,because that was not adapting - that was doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. Justin ducked beneath the swing, his fingers brushing its chest. The machine imploded, its components folding inward until it was no larger than a baseball.


    "Adapt to that, you overgrown toaster," Justin quipped, his tone dripping with amusement.


    More Sentinels charged, their forms shifting mid-attack to attempt to counter his power. Blades turned into shields, energy weapons recalibrated into ones capable of sonic attacks, as their movements became more erratic, unpredictable. It didn''t matter. The Power Stone rendered their efforts meaningless. Justin''s strikes tore through their armor like paper, his energy blasts reducing them to molten slag. His very steps on the ground crushed them as his power flashed out.


    "You''re trying so hard," He taunted, his voice light with mockery. He grabbed two Sentinels by their legs and spun, using their flailing forms to knock down the others. "It''s almost adorable, really. Like watching toddlers figure out how to walk." He laughed maliciously, ''What''s the matter? Can''t code yourself out of this?"


    Calamity roared, its voice shaking the room. "You are an anomaly! A perversion of order!" Its fist struck the ground like it was having a tantrum, "The curse of flesh does not have this ability!"


    "And you''re a bad Wi-Fi connection with legs," Justin shot back, hurling one of the Sentinels directly at Calamity''s face. The machine deflected it with a swing of its massive arm, but the insult hit its mark. Calamity''s fury radiated in waves, its massive frame advancing toward Justin with deliberate menace as it finally took to the field itself.


    Not that it had any choice, it was running out of Sentinels.


    "I will obliterate you!" Calamity declared, raising an arm that morphed into a massive cannon. It fired a beam that split into three, a sonic component, a heat component, and one of pure energy, the force of it warping the air as it hurtled toward Justin.


    Justin didn''t even flinch - the computer just didn''t learn. He raised his hand, and the Power Stone flared. The tri-beam struck an invisible barrier, splintering into harmless sparks. "Oh, I''m so scared," Justin said dryly, rolling his eyes. "You''re really pulling out all the stops, huh? Next time try and do a really big blade - if you want to try something that''s already been done and failed."


    He retaliated with a blast of his own, the violet energy cutting through the chamber like a blade. It sheared through a line of Sentinels, disintegrating them in an instant. Calamity raised its other arm to shield itself, the energy scorching its surface but failing to penetrate.


    He supposed the alien material of Calamity''s chassis was a step above the rest. He might actually have to put a smidgen more power into this. More than the 1 percent he''d been doing so far¡­


    "You''ll have to do better than that," Calamity boomed, seemingly more confident now.


    Justin grinned, his expression wicked. "Don''t worry, I''ve got plenty more, after all, I''ve only been using one percent of my power..." He raised both hands, unleashing a torrent of energy that cascaded across the room. The wave consumed the remaining Sentinels, ripping them apart in a cacophony of screeching metal and sparks. Within moments, the room was littered with their shattered remains.


    Only Calamity remained.


    The towering AI stepped forward, its body crackling with energy as it tried to match him with its inferior output, the alien crystal matrix glowing brightly, shaking in its containment. "You cannot defeat me. I am eternal! I will outlast you and all the flawed flesh you champion!"


    Justin tilted his head, his smirk deepening. "Let''s test that theory."


    He lunged forward, moving faster than Calamity could react. His hand slammed into its chest, tearing away a chunk of its armor with a screech of rending metal. "Oops," Justin said mockingly, holding up the piece like a trophy. "Looks like you''re not as durable as you thought."


    Calamity swung at him with a massive arm, but Justin sidestepped easily, his movements fluid and effortless. He retaliated by ripping another piece off its shoulder, laughing as sparks flew. "You should really see a mechanic about this. You''re falling apart."


    "I am perfection!" Calamity roared, its voice tinged with desperation.


    "Perfection?" Justin echoed, feigning disbelief. He tore off another piece, this time from its leg, causing the AI to stagger. "Perfection seems to be having some issues..."


    Piece by piece, Justin dismantled Calamity, each strike accompanied by a biting insult. He ripped off its arms, mocking their design. He tore into its torso, deriding its construction. Every blow was calculated, every word designed to humiliate. It wasn''t enough to destroy this being.


    He wanted it to know how inferior it was.


    Finally, Calamity was reduced to its torso and head, sparks and wires trailing from its broken body. It glared at Justin with its cracked face place, distress visible in its body language. "I was meant to be eternal!" It shrieked, its voice cracking with fury. "To solve the curse of flesh!"


    Justin stepped closer, his expression one of pure amusement and pleasure. "Eternal, huh?" He said softly. "That''s cute."


    In the corner of his vision, within another dimension, he saw Nail''s presence surge into the chamber''s systems. He could feel her digital wrath as she locked Calamity down, severing its connections to elsewhere on the Moon or Earth, purging its influence with ruthless precision. The AI''s screams of rage echoed not just in the physical chamber but across the dimension of cyberspace, where Nail dismantled it piece by piece.


    Justin placed his hand on Calamity''s faceplate, his touch almost gentle. The Power Stone flared, its light spilling across the chamber in brilliant waves of violet. "The only one who''ll be eternal in this universe..." He murmured, his voice calm and final.


    Calamity''s frame began to disintegrate, its atoms breaking apart under the Power Stone''s relentless power. It writhed, its screams fading into static as its body dissolved into nothingness.


    "...is ME," Justin finished, his voice a ringing note of domination.


    When the light faded, nothing remained of Calamity. The chamber was still, the only sound the faint hum of the Power Stone as it settled back into a steady rhythm inside him. Justin stood alone, triumphant, his expression cold and unyielding.


    He turned toward the captive Nebula, who stared at him with a mix of fear and awe. "Now," Justin said, his voice sharp as a blade. "Let''s have a little chat, you and I, about your dear old daddy¡­"


    <hr>


    Washington DC, Oval Office, White House.


    Alexander Pierce exhaled a cloud of cigar smoke, the rich aroma mixing with the faint scent of leather and varnished wood in the Oval Office. He stood near the Resolute Desk, a symbol of power he''d spent decades maneuvering himself closer to. Now, it was within his grasp.


    The newly sworn-in president - a spineless man of Pierce''s choosing - sat meekly at the desk, his eyes darting nervously as if unsure whether to celebrate or cower. The untimely, tragic death of his predecessor had been a necessary sacrifice, and Pierce was feeling triumphant. HYDRA''s tendrils now extended further than ever, stretching into several governments and key organizations worldwide. With the chaos created by the Iron Legion fiasco and the global unrest that followed, HYDRA had seized power in ways Justin Hammer couldn''t begin to counter.


    Pierce smiled, taking another puff from his cigar. "A bright new day," He said aloud, more to himself than the jittery man at the desk. "History will remember us as the architects of a stronger, purer world."


    The president offered a hesitant nod, his words sticking in his throat, as he feared upsetting Pierce.


    Pierce didn''t care. The man was a figurehead, nothing more - a puppet whose strings he could tug whenever he pleased. As far as Pierce was concerned, Justin Hammer and his merry band of ''heroes'' were a temporary nuisance. Hammer''s empire had grown far too fast, far too loud. But HYDRA had existed in the shadows for decades, weaving its influence across every facet of society. Hammer would fall in line - or fall apart.


    He was reaching for the glass of whiskey on the desk when a soft sound, like a gust of wind, drew his attention. He turned, narrowing his eyes at the swirling orange portal that had appeared in the center of the room. Its edges crackled with energy, rippling like liquid fire. Pierce immediately set his cigar down, adopting a smug expression. He assumed Justin Hammer was making his entrance.


    Here to acknowledge that Pierce now held the cards. Willing to swear himself in as part of HYDRA, beneath Pierce himself.


    Hammer might have some personal power, and his business. But Pierce now wielded the power of governments.


    The figure that emerged however, was not Justin Hammer.


    Instead, it was Sunil Bakshi, his impeccably tailored suit spotless as he stepped through, unconcerned about breaching White House security. Behind him, several assistants followed, all carrying sleek tablets and folders, their expressions calm and detached. They spread out like a wave of efficiency, setting up equipment and taking positions as if they''d always belonged there.


    Pierce''s thin veneer of affability cracked for a moment before he forced a smile. "Sunil Bakshi," He said smoothly, masking his irritation. "I admit, I expected someone¡­ Higher up the chain. I take it Justin Hammer is busy licking his wounds?"


    Bakshi''s smile was glacial, polite but cutting. "Mr. Hammer," He said, his tone razor-sharp, "Has far more important matters to attend to than the likes of you." He brushed imaginary dust from his shoulder, "You''re simply far too beneath him Alexander."


    Pierce''s smile faltered. He glanced at the president, who was cowering silently behind the desk. Pierce turned back to Bakshi, his irritation bubbling to the surface. "Bold words for a secretary and hatchet man. Do you think you can stand up to the power I wield? Come now, Sunil, you were HYDRA, you know you''re outmatched."


    Bakshi''s expression didn''t waver. Without breaking eye contact, he stepped forward, and without hesitation, drew a gun, placing it to the forehead of the President, and pulled the trigger. The man, only in the office for an hour, lost most of his head, falling back to the floor. Bakshi sat down, leaning back as if the Oval Office were his own.


    "Alexander," Bakshi said, his voice taking on a chiding tone, "You''ve overstepped."


    Pierce''s jaw tightened. He pressed a hidden button on his cufflink, sending a silent signal to his guards. "You''re playing a dangerous game, Bakshi," He warned, his voice low and steady. "I have more power than you realize."


    Bakshi chuckled softly, a sound devoid of humor. "Power?" He leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with icy amusement. "You don''t even realize how small you are. Your arrogance has blinded you, Alexander. You''re not even worth the attention of the man you fear most. That''s why I''m here. Your entire existence has been delegated - like an email ordering more uniforms."


    Pierce clenched his fists, his heart pounding with anger and unease. Where were his guards? They should have been here by now. He glanced at the door, his growing frustration tinged with a spike of fear.


    He kept his absolute hatred and anger down, as they wouldn''t help him now, the idea that he''d been¡­ Relegated to an afterthought, delegated to a servant¡­ It set his blood on fire, he had to clamp down on it, had to find the way out here, he needed to focus. There was always an angle.


    Bakshi noticed the glance and smirked. "Your guards aren''t coming, Alexander," He said almost pityingly. "And as for your so-called power¡­" He gestured to the room, the assistants moving with quiet precision, their every motion efficient and purposeful. Moving about the Oval Office like they owned it. "You''re out of your depth. Sir doesn''t need you. He doesn''t even need HYDRA, or the President."


    Pierce''s eyes narrowed, his voice taking on an edge of desperation. "You think you can sweep us away? HYDRA is in every corner of the globe! Hammer can''t stop us - he''d choke on our sheer scale!"


    Bakshi leaned back, folding his hands neatly on the desk. "Why would we swallow such a bitter pill?" He asked, his tone light, almost conversational. "We''ve known about you and your little cabal for a long time, Alexander. Every head of HYDRA is getting a visit right now."


    Pierce stiffened. His mind raced, trying to calculate the implications. Could Hammer Industries have mobilized against HYDRA so quickly? Could they possibly know the locations of every head, every base?


    Bakshi seemed to read his thoughts. "Justin returned the H.A.M.M.E.R. team to me from the operation they were performing," He said, his voice cold and precise. "And I made use of them. Every HYDRA base, every hideout, every head you''ve so carefully hidden - they''re being eliminated as we speak."


    Pierce felt a bead of sweat trail down his temple. "You''re bluffing," He spat. "HYDRA is too entrenched -"


    "Not anymore," Bakshi interrupted smoothly. His assistants began placing tablets on the desk, each one displaying a live feed. One by one, Pierce saw HYDRA facilities under siege. Explosions rocked hidden bases, operatives were captured or neutralized, and resources were seized by Hammer Industries forces.


    The bastard was filming it just so he could rub it into his face!


    Pierce''s fists clenched tighter, his nails digging into his palms. "You''ll pay for this," He hissed, his voice trembling with suppressed rage. "Hammer needs me. You need me."


    Bakshi tilted his head, his expression almost pitying. "We don''t need you, Alexander. You''re a relic of a failed ideology." He gestured to one of the Widows standing silently nearby. "And as for paying¡­" He smirked. "Consider this your final withdrawal."


    The Widow moved in a blur, a small syringe in her hand plunging into Pierce''s neck before he could react. He felt his muscles seize, his vision blurring as a numbing cold spread through his body.


    "What¡­What have you done?" Pierce gasped, his voice barely above a whisper. His legs gave out, and he sank to his knees, his body refusing to obey him.


    Bakshi stood, smoothing his suit with practiced ease. "We''re tying up loose ends," he said simply. He reached into his pocket, retrieving a sleek pistol, which he handed to the Widow. The murder weapon that had taken the president of the United States of America. "Such a tragic end for Alexander Pierce," He mused aloud, his tone mockingly somber. "The mastermind behind the president''s assassination, exposed and shamed, finally driven to despair, killing his own puppet and then committing suicide. A cautionary tale for the ages."


    Pierce''s eyes widened with realization. He tried to reach for his own weapon, but his arms wouldn''t respond. A second Widow stood behind him now, her presence a shadow he hadn''t noticed until it was too late.


    He''d run spyops for decades, he was well aware how easy it would be to make it look like he''d shot the President.


    "No¡­" He whispered hoarsely. "Not like this¡­"


    Bakshi leaned in close, his voice a cold whisper. "Yes, Alexander. Like this."


    The Widow placed the pistol in his hand, aiming it with precision against his own head, his muscles refused to obey him. The sound of the shot echoed through the Oval Office, the sharp crack cutting through the heavy silence.


    Alexander Pierce, one of the most powerful men in the world, crumpled to the floor, his ambitions reduced to nothing more than a footnote in the annals of history. His legacy forever tarnished.


    Sunil Bakshi exhaled softly, his expression impassive as he turned to the Widows, "Set the scene up," Bakshi said curtly, stepping over Pierce''s body. Bakshi adjusted his tie, his gaze sweeping over the room with cold satisfaction.


    HYDRA had overstepped. And now, it was finished.


    <hr>


    Back at the Moon.


    Justin stepped into the moon base''s main production facility, the air heavy with the acrid tang of burnt circuitry and oil. Behind him, Nebula was dragged unceremoniously across the floor, wrapped in so many restraints that she was more cocoon than person, the once-pristine facility now a chaotic battlefield.


    Sentinel parts littered the floor like fallen giants, and the occasional splash of blood dotted the walls where the fighting had been particularly brutal. Hela had clearly taken some real injuries, and the thought briefly amused Justin. She was pushed enough to bleed, it seemed, though she''d never admit it he suspected.


    Ahead, lounging atop a pile of crushed Sentinel remains, was Hela, the goddess of death. Her usual aura of amused superiority was intact, though her appearance was decidedly more disheveled. She wore only a pair of leather pants and a chest wrap, her usual armor destroyed or discarded. Her skin gleamed faintly with sweat, and her long black hair hung in loose, tangled waves. Despite the state of her clothing, her expression was one of pure satisfaction as she surveyed her handiwork.


    As Justin approached, her gaze shifted, her emerald eyes locking onto him. Her smirk widened, but then her eyes narrowed as she seemed to truly see him. The glow of the Power Stone radiated from his chest, casting faint purple highlights across his features. In an instant, Hela was on her feet, her lazy demeanor gone. Before Justin could blink, she moved.


    The next thing he knew, he was staring up at the ceiling, his back pressed against the cold, dented floor. Hela straddled him, her hands slamming down on either side of his head. The impact sent a creak through the metal beneath them, the structure protesting her raw strength. Her hair fell in wild tendrils around her face, her eyes blazing with something fierce and unrelenting.


    Justin sighed, his voice calm despite the situation. "Hela¡­"


    "I don''t care," She interrupted, her voice a mix of exhilaration and frustration. She leaned closer, her breath hot against his skin as her fingers dug into the metal floor. "You can''t keep turning me down and then walk in like this." Her gaze raked over him, her lips curling into a wicked grin. "Dripping with ultimate power."


    Justin raised an eyebrow. "Dripping?" He asked dryly.


    Hela ignored the quip, inhaling deeply as if savoring the very air around him. "You''re exquisite," She growled. "And you dare walk in here, shining like a proper GOD, expecting me to just sit back and behave?"


    Behind them, Nebula began to squirm in her bindings, muffled screams of protest echoing faintly. She writhed with newfound vigor, the scene clearly upsetting her, the woman feeling what was about to happen and wanting nothing to do with it. Justin didn''t bother looking back at her; he already knew she was there and had no intention of untying her anytime soon.


    If she didn''t want to be in this situation, she shouldn''t have messed with his planet.


    "Hela," He started again, his tone firmer. "I have actual work to do. Surviving Skrulls to eliminate in the other bases according to my little captive. Bases to clear. A planet to save. And you''re sitting on me like a¡­" He trailed off, trying to find the words.


    "Like a queen with her prize?" Hela supplied gleefully, tilting her head.


    Justin sighed, his patience thinning. "I do not agree with this objectification." There was some humor in his tone however.


    Her grin widened, her hands curling into fists against the floor. "You think I''m going to let you waltz in here, humming with the power of an Infinity Stone, and walk out again without giving me what I want?" She leaned down, her lips hovering just above his. "No, Justin. Not this time."


    He stared up at her, unamused. "And if I still say no?"


    Hela laughed, a wild, unrestrained sound that echoed through the chamber. "Then we''ll fight while we fuck," She said, her voice dripping with glee. "And trust me, it''ll be even better that way."


    Before he could respond, she claimed his lips in a fierce, hungry kiss. Her strength pinned him in place, but he could feel the unrelenting press of her desire matched by her sheer joy at challenging him. The kiss was an extension of her chaotic nature - intense, passionate, and wholly unyielding.


    Justin broke the kiss, his voice sharp. "Hela, I swear -"


    "Swear later," She interrupted, biting his lower lip playfully before pulling back, her eyes gleaming with hunger. "Right now, you''re mine."


    <hr>

 Endgame Begins.

    <hr>


    Naval Base, China.


    The makeshift holding room in the Chinese naval base they''d been ensconced in, was bathed in the cold blue glow of a wall-mounted screen. On said screen, a Hammer Industries spokesperson delivered a polished speech like she wasn''t full of baloney and only dumping more of it for every honeyed word. Steve Rogers sat on a hard metal chair, his posture stiff, arms crossed as he watched in silence. His eyes betrayed nothing, but a faint tension in his jaw spoke volumes on its own.


    They''d had to fight with the Chinese for just this much consideration, a bit of news on what had happened. For some reason they were being very inconsiderate about giving them anything live. It made Steve worried about what they were missing¡­


    Steve had a feeling they wouldn''t be welcome for much longer. Which didn''t really leave all that many places to go anymore.


    Namor, standing to Steve''s right, loomed like a thundercloud about to burst. His dark eyes burned with disdain as the spokesperson''s voice droned on, Namor, even more than Steve, seeming to have a point to prove. Something which had been delayed by the reversal of the Iron Legion attack.


    "...And thanks to the unparalleled efforts of Hammer Industries, the last gasp alien Skrull insurgency has been entirely neutralized. Humanity can rest assured that our vigilance remains steadfast, and our technology unmatched in the defense of our civilization¡­"


    Namor growled low in his throat, his lip curling. "More lies," He muttered, his voice hateful. His gaze flicked to the few Chinese soldiers loitering near the edges of the room, pretending to be busy while clearly eavesdropping and keeping an eye on them. "They will lap it up like the weak, pitiful creatures they are."


    Steve didn''t react to Namor''s words, his eyes fixed on the screen. His silence was heavy, contemplative, though tension radiated from him where he sat. Finally, he leaned forward, elbows resting on his knees as he scrubbed a hand over his face. "Aliens again," He muttered. "How many times is Hammer going to use that excuse?"


    Everytime Hammer was responsible for war crimes, it seemed aliens were the answer, and Steve couldn''t understand how no one was questioning that.


    Namor turned to him sharply, his voice edged with barely contained anger. "And yet they believe it. Every time. Hammer has wrapped them in his lies, and now they grovel at his feet."


    Namor had only grown more agitated as they cooled their heels in this base, the Chinese obviously keeping an eye on them and feeding them shit. Steve wasn''t sure Namor would hold back much longer, and he wasn''t sure he wanted to see the end result anymore either.


    Steve eventually sighed, dropping his hands from his face as he turned toward Namor. "The Skrulls are real," He said quietly. "We''ve seen that much. But this?" He waved at the screen, where the footage shifted to rows of alien tech and giant robots being shown off by Hammer Industries, from the moon of all things. Or so they said. "Blaming every problem on aliens¡­ How do we know they were even to blame? And just didn''t run afoul of Hammer''s ambitions?"


    He wasn''t sure anymore what was right or wrong. But it just couldn''t be true that aliens kept attacking Earth, that was just not possible. It had to be Hammer. It was the only thing that made any sense.


    Namor crossed his arms, his biceps flexing under the dark green scales of his armor. "Control of the narrative is power, Rogers. Something Hammer has mastered. Something the world now bows to." He glanced at the soldiers again, his disdain palpable. "They would have us believe that we can do nothing. That we are powerless."


    His fist clenched as he raised it, face stormy, "Distant threats are paraded in front of us to make us believe we need him. It is all a charade!"


    Steve looked down, his expression tightening. "I don''t know what else we can do now, Namor. This... If there''s even a chance that it''s true¡­ It''s bigger than us."


    He didn''t believe it could be true, but if there was even a chance¡­


    He wasn''t so conceited that he''d think he was all that was needed for a concerted alien invasion.


    If it was true.


    Namor''s hands twitched angrily. He stepped forward suddenly, grasping the front of Steve''s uniform and yanking him to his feet. His voice a low snarl. "We cannot stop now, Captain! The world must see our strength!"


    Steve met Namor''s glare, unflinching. His own voice was quiet but firm. "Let go, Namor."


    He wouldn''t be bullied into a choice.


    Not now.


    Not ever.


    Namor hesitated, his fingers tightening on Steve''s uniform before he released him with a frustrated huff. "You disappoint me, Rogers," He muttered, turning away to pace like a caged lion. "At the moment of truth, you falter."


    Steve sank back into his chair, running a hand through his hair. He didn''t argue. He didn''t have the strength to. Doubts swirled in his mind, doubts he didn''t know how to answer. What was left for them to fight for? What could they even accomplish?


    Was he even in the right?


    The world didn''t seem to think so¡­


    He needed to speak to Clint and Natasha¡­ Where the heck were they anyway?


    It was only when he looked down at his burner phone, thinking of calling them, that he remembered he could get news on the Internet nowadays.


    Time to see what he was missing.


    ¡­


    An hour later,


    Over fifty miles away, Clint Barton and Natasha Romanoff sat in a beat-up truck driving along a quiet dirt road. The truck''s engine made clanking noises now and then, its battered frame rattling faintly as it vibrated. Outside, the landscape stretched endlessly, a never-ending expanse of fields and farms.


    Clint leaned back in the driver''s seat, one hand resting on the wheel as he stared blankly ahead. His bow lay across his lap, though it felt more like a joke than a weapon now. "So," He said finally, his voice heavy, "New identities?"


    Laura was going to kill him for all of this, if she was even willing to hear him out after this long. He''d backed the wrong horse. Fury and Coulson had been wrong. Or worse¡­


    God, there was always a worse? Wasn''t it?


    For once he''d like to be in a situation where it was revealed that actually, everything was totally okay, just go home and have pizza, chill, everything was already dealt with, not his problem.


    Natasha sat in the passenger seat, her arms crossed over her chest, her gaze fixed out the side window. "It won''t last," She said flatly. "Hammer will find us. He''s already going to be dismantling governments across the globe. The people are turning against their leaders. The last reveal about HYDRA¡­" She trailed off, her expression hardening. "The public won''t stand for it. The governments will try to fight, but they''ll lose."


    With all the knockout punches the world''s governments had taken to the chin lately - they couldn''t beat the count this time, she believed. The HYDRA reveal was too big. Too damaging.


    There was no way to realistically defend having Nazis as a vital part of your government and bureaucracy for decades. And governments across the entire world shared this particular defect, and it was now very public.


    Clint let out a bitter laugh. "Think Steve''s seen it yet?" He asked, glancing at her. "Think he saw the light finally?"


    How they''d all been completely fucked from day one, dancing to Fury''s tune like little mice - with no higher concern then where their next hit of cheese was coming from.


    No, Clint wasn''t bitter. Not at all.


    Natasha didn''t answer immediately. Instead, she reached into her pocket and pulled out the burner phone she''d been using. She held it up, the screen displaying over thirty missed calls from Steve''s burner. Wordlessly, she rolled down the window and tossed the phone out after disassembling it with practiced motions. It hit the ground with a faint clatter, quickly forgotten in the dust.


    It was too late for Steve, they couldn''t wait for him to turn things around, or for him to cut a sweetheart deal to be brought back into the fold - them following along in its wake.


    It was too late now.


    They were left with only one option.


    Clint stared at her for a moment before shaking his head. "Your sister better still love you," He muttered, his voice tinged with a weary humor.


    It was their best shot at getting something of a life back.


    Natasha''s expression softened slightly, a flicker of vulnerability crossing her face. "Let me handle Yelena," She said quietly.


    Clint didn''t press further. He leaned back in his seat, his gaze drifting to the horizon. The weight of everything they''d lost hung between them, unspoken but undeniable.


    Heroes¡­ That was what they''d attempted to become¡­


    They should have known better.


    People like them didn''t get storybook endings.


    ¡­


    Back in the naval base, Steve Rogers sat on a hard bench in the corner of the barracks, his head bowed and his hands clasped tightly between his knees. He had slipped away from Namor and the soldiers watching them, seeking solitude. But solitude brought no comfort at all.


    Not anymore.


    The screen of his phone was cracked, but it still displayed the last bit of news he''d searched up on, "HYDRA infestation of SHIELD since its creation, confirmed. Full story at¡­"


    The words stared back at him like a taunt, refusing to let him look away. Refusing to allow him any peace from the revelation of who exactly he''d been working for.


    HYDRA. SHIELD. Fury.


    The organization he had given so much of himself to, the one he had believed in. A lie. Fury''s reassurances, his calls for trust and loyalty - it had all been a facade. And Steve? He had been their willing pawn, fighting their battles, carrying their flag. He felt sick. Betrayed. And worst of all, lost.


    He''d been carrying on the Red Skulls legacy!


    His mind churned with questions he wasn''t even sure if he wanted an answer to. Clint and Natasha had left without a word. Were they HYDRA too? Had they known all along? And Bucky - his oldest friend, now standing alongside Hammer Industries. Was Bucky complicit in this too?


    Or was Hammer the only one actually standing against a resurgence of the Nazi''s and the Red Skulls legacy? Was that why Bucky was with them?


    Was that why Bucky never contacted him? Despite all the various messages Steve had sent him? Because Bucky couldn''t trust Steve¡­ Because Steve was working for HYDRA!


    Steve squeezed his eyes shut, his hands clenching into fists. He had faced the worst of the worst, monsters, and wars, death and blood. He had survived even the ice. But this? This was different. This was the kind of betrayal that cut to the bone, the kind that left scars deeper than any physical wound, that scarred the soul.


    Everything he stood for.


    Everything he was.


    He''d been fighting against it, not realizing who was pulling his strings.


    He almost lost his lunch, feeling a sense of vertigo, he''d been nothing but a dancing monkey, just like the early days¡­ Except this times the strings had fully enveloped him to the point he hadn''t noticed they were there¡­


    The sound of distant footsteps pulled him from his thoughts. He opened his eyes, staring blankly at the floor as the soldiers walked past, their voices a faint murmur. They didn''t matter. Nothing felt like it mattered anymore.


    For the first time, Captain America


    ¡­ No¡­ Steve Rogers¡­ For the first time in a long long while, he didn''t know what to do.


    He only knew what he had been doing¡­


    Had been all the wrong things.


    <hr>


    Skrull Base, the Moon.


    Justin stepped through the swirling orange portal, his boots clicking sharply against the metallic floor. He didn''t break stride as the portal snapped shut behind him, leaving only the faintest trace of its magic hanging in the air.


    Nebula, still trussed up, was dragged unceremoniously behind him. The reinforced bindings bit into her cybernetic limbs, forcing her into a helpless sprawl on the ground. She squirmed against the restraints, her muffled protests doing nothing to alter her fate as she was hauled along.


    Of course, he had something much more annoying to deal with at the moment¡­


    Even more annoying then the situation on Earth, or the remaining Skrulls.


    "Hela, stop it," Justin muttered with obvious irritation, holding back the urge to strike her.


    She''d been insufferable ever since¡­ The incident.


    Hela hung off his arm like a gleeful child, a satisfied smirk curling her lips. Her hair was loose and wild, framing her face, in contrast to the disciplined warrior look she usually exuded, she looked looser, more relaxed. Even then, her armor was left gleaming with fresh Skrull blood. The metallic scent clung to her as strongly as her bold, unhinged energy did.


    Because even relaxed and sated, she was still crazy.


    "~My, what a brute? Use them and leave them - is that your way, Justin?" She teased, her tone dripping with mockery and a faint edge of menace. Her grip tightened around his arm, more playful than possessive, but no less annoying.


    She''d been going back and forth for a while now. Between sweet and possessive, and murderous and mocking. All while not letting him go, unless she had someone to cut apart.


    Luckily, although about ninety percent of all Skrulls on the Moon had been liquidated by Calamity, there had been four moon bases in total, and Calamity hadn''t gotten them all cleared yet when Justin invaded.


    Justin glanced at her, his gaze flat and unimpressed. "Yes. You and me. Not compatible."


    The words were simple, almost clinical, but they did nothing to dissuade Hela, who sighed theatrically, rolling her eyes. "Not compatible? Really?" She asked, feigning offense. "I felt we were compatible. Very, very compatible¡­ Seven times, if I recall correctly?" Her voice dropped to a sultry purr, and her smirk deepened when Nebula began thrashing harder as she was dragged behind them, her muffled screams growing louder. Hela, with deliberate carelessness, let Nebula''s head smack against the edge of a protruding console as they walked by.


    That had only happened a few dozen times now. Justin would care¡­ But it was one of Thanos'' daughters, so he didn''t.


    Perhaps she could be turned. But he had neither the patience or the will for it. He had people for that kind of thing. Worst case, she''d be recycled - she was pretty used to it anyway, wasn''t she?


    Justin stopped walking as Hela tightened her hold, a happy smirk on her face as she nuzzled into his shoulder. He sighed heavily, and gave Hela a sharp look. "If you don''t let go of my arm, I will break it." He promised.


    The words were spoken calmly, almost softly, but the underlying threat was clear. His aura flared subtly, a ripple of energy emanating from the Power Stone embedded in his chest. The intensity of his presence grew, filling the corridor with a suffocating weight.


    Hela visibly shivered, her dark eyes gleaming with a twisted delight. "Promises, promises," She murmured, finally letting go of his arm with a dramatic pout. "Fine, I''ll behave. For now." She stretched her arms lazily, her movements predatory and deliberate. "We do have some rats to deal with, after all. I suppose I can save being broken apart for fun for another time."


    Justin rubbed the bridge of his nose, muttering, "You''re insufferable." And she was a total masochist too, what a surprise, really. He''d broken the woman''s damn pelvis during their liaison - and the damn woman had just gotten more excited.


    Ahead, a group of Skrull soldiers emerged from an adjoining hallway, their green skin pale and slick with sweat. Their rifles trembled in their hands, their fingers tightening on the triggers as they faced the intimidating duo. Hela''s lips curled into a crazed smile as she summoned her necroblades, the black energy crackling hungrily in her palms.


    "Ah, murder, torture and sex," Hela breathed, stepping forward languidly as if she had all the time in the world. "This has been a fantastic day."


    Justin hung back, watching her with a resigned and weary expression, her company had been a bit much, so far. "And she wonders why I want nothing to do with a relationship with her," He muttered to Nebula. "People aren''t supposed to enjoy being broken apart piece by pie - " He sighed, "Oh, look who I''m talking to¡­"


    Nebula growled lowly through her gag, her glare sharp enough to cut steel.


    Justin tilted his head thoughtfully. "You don''t, do you? I mean, I know you''re kind of a hodgepodge at this point, but you don''t actually enjoy being broken apart, right?"


    The only response he got was an even deeper glare and more furious squirming. He nodded to himself, apparently satisfied. "Good. Wouldn''t want you having too much fun when we interrogate you properly later." His tone was almost chipper, before he glanced back at Hela and growled. "Hela! I told you not to kill the females! They can make more test subjects given time!"


    Hela, currently pinning two female Skrulls against the wall with her necroblades, turned to him with an innocent smile that didn''t reach her eyes. "They''re not dead!" She said brightly, radiating smugness.


    Justin gestured at the two Skrulls, their green bodies impaled, blood pooling on the floor. "They''re impaled through their wombs," He said flatly. "That''s the only reason to keep them. They''re practically useless now."


    Hela giggled, pulling her blades free with a wet squelch. "Ah, but if you need a womb, Justin¡­" She licked the blood off one of her blades, her smile twisting into something feral, leaving the rest unsaid.


    And giving him nightmares.


    His libido was going to be the cause of so much regret¡­


    "I regret everything," Justin muttered, shaking his head as Hela resumed her bloodbath with gleeful abandon. He supposed they had enough Skrull test subjects captive that they didn''t need the rest anyway. He''d stop her when there were only a few left.


    Nebula glared at him with unbridled fury as he picked her up and patted her on the cheek, her thrashing renewed as if she might somehow break free and throttle him, as she watched him take over base by base that had been set up with Thanos'' resources, every one of his actions just sealing her fate even more if she were to ever return.


    "Well, I don''t regret you, yet, Blueberry," Justin said absently, glancing at her as he gave her another pat. "You''ll come in handy. Eventually." He chuckled darkly, "At the very least as spare parts, or a beacon to get your much more accomplished sister to show up."


    Nebula practically popped her eyes as she screamed obscenities at him through her gag at that. Justin just smiled down at her, taking enjoyment in her suffering.


    He''d had a stressful time lately, and it felt nice to rip aside the facade, and just do whatever he wanted. Well¡­ He glanced over at Hela again, almost everything¡­


    Because his life would be much easier if he could either get rid of her, or make her fully trustworthy. Unfortunately he was stuck with her as she was.


    If he thought he could reprogram her that would be one thing. But her desire for conquest was literally part of her DNA. She would never just settle. As long as there was space in the universe to be conquered, Hela would want to do so.


    Potentially useful.


    Until she''d turn around and try to conquer him.


    Hela, of course, was in her element. She carved through the remaining Skrulls with a brutal efficiency that bordered on artistic at times. The once-pristine corridor was now a charnel house, the walls slick with blood and ichor, dismembered limbs scattered across the floor. The Skrulls'' energy weapons did nothing to slow her, their beams either absorbed by her armor or dodged with an almost casual grace as if mocking their efforts.


    Justin watched her work with a detached expression, stepping over a severed arm as he dragged Nebula behind him. "Hela," He called, his tone sharp, "We could still use at least a few alive. Preferably in one piece."


    Hela paused, her necroblades flickering out as she turned to him with a pout. "You''re no fun," She said, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "But fine. You can have your living specimens." She gestured at a handful of Skrulls huddled in the corner, their weapons discarded as they trembled in terror.


    Justin gave her a curt nod. "Good, so you can listen... We''ve still got one more base to clear."


    Hela huffed, folding her arms. "You''re such a taskmaster. All work work work¡­" She slid over to him sensually, "If I can''t play with the little weaklings, will you play with ~me?" Her vicious smirk was more bloodthirsty then it was anything else, and he had a feeling he''d be seeing a lot more of this¡­


    His fault for making bad life choices.


    Now he''d have to keep controlling her through her lusts. Both carnal and bloody. At least it was somewhat of a leash on the dangerous Goddess of Death.


    Somewhat.


    ¡­ Freiya could never find out.


    As much as it wasn''t his favored choice, he''d have to keep dominating her now, step by step, to keep her in control. She was too dangerous to leave alone, and too dangerous to completely scorn.


    He didn''t respond to her words, already pulling up a holographic map from the display on his glasses. His mind was on the logistics of transporting their newly acquired Skrull captives back to Earth. Hammer Industries had plenty of resources to handle the experimentation, there was no denying the importance of preserving at least some of the Skrulls'' genetic material intact with how adaptable they were.


    Too many of Fury''s Skrulls had gotten away after all, so he was somewhat thankful Thanos delivered him a whole bushel of others to play with, even if they were likely to be of limited use all things considered.


    As he studied the map, Hela sidled up to him, her steps silent despite the carnage around her. "You know," She purred, leaning close enough that her breath tickled his ear, "If you ever change your mind, I''m always available for round eight."


    Justin didn''t look up. "Hela, I will crush your windpipe if you keep going." He muttered, irritated.


    If this was to be her leash, he''d have to be sparing with the amount of times he used it - or she''d be the one in control. He couldn''t falter everytime she wanted something, he''d need to remain strong.


    She cut him off with a laugh, skipping ahead to survey the trembling Skrulls she''d spared on his command. "Oh, Justin," She called over her shoulder, her expression absolutely thrilled, "You say the sweetest things!"


    <hr>


    Just outside New York City.


    Tony Stark stood amidst the wreckage of his latest firefight, the edges of his Iron Man armor glowing faintly from heat dissipation due to the amount of hits he''d taken head on, not willing to waste time dodging. The once-bustling market square of the New York suburb was now a field of smoldering vehicles, shattered buildings, and the occasional stray body crumpled amidst the rubble. His hand flexed, repulsor humming as it cycled down, while his heart raced faster than his arc reactor.


    He was beyond irritated. Beyond frustrated. If he were to describe it accurately, he was utterly enraged.


    All this death and destruction, and it had brought him nothing.


    He wasn''t any closer to finding Pepper then he''d been before.


    "I''ve wiped out two dozen Ten Rings operatives," Tony growled, hatred leaking through his demeanor. "I''ve taken down a company of rogue soldiers from the US army, a whole company complete with tanks, SAMs, and the whole shebang! And yet¡­" He paused, chest heaving as he stared at the wreckage. "Still. No. Pepper!"


    His HUD blinked incessantly, streams of data flowing across his vision as Jarvis combed through heat signatures and digital breadcrumbs left in the wake of their rampage. So far, nothing concrete had come up, and Tony''s patience was wearing thin.


    He was about ready to start bombing Asian countries until the Mandarin lost his favored aunt''s pet cat! Or whatever it would take to flush the bastard out.


    He wasn''t shy to admit that little things like mass casualties didn''t bother him compared to the idea of losing Pepper. Ever since he killed General Ross, the death of nobodies didn''t come into the equation anymore for him.


    Hammer had been right about one thing. They were a different breed, the two of them. They were worth a thousand of these peons, no a million!This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    "You know," He muttered bitterly to Jarvis, pacing across the blackened pavement, "I''m probably going to hear about all this collateral damage later. Some senator''s gonna wag their finger, some reporter''s gonna call me reckless, and Pepper - Pepper''s gonna¡­"


    He stopped. His hands clenched into fists, and his voice cracked as he whispered her name again. "Pepper¡­"


    He''d remove New York from the face of the Earth if it meant she''d be around to yell at him for being so reckless. He''d even listen¡­ For a few days.


    Jarvis'' calm voice broke through the storm in his head. "Might I remind you, sir, that such consequences are precisely what your partnership with Mr. Hammer is for?"


    Tony snorted, though there was no humor in it. "Oh, right. Justin ''Space Buddy'' Hammer. That''s what he''s for. He can wave away piddly things like consequences, can''t he?"


    At least he was useful, despite being a plain bastard that screwed with Tony as a matter of course. Not that he didn''t screw him right back¡­ But Jarvis had a point, he did have a lot of resources Tony could perhaps pull on.


    If he could stomach begging for help¡­


    For Pepper¡­


    He''d¡­ Do it. Under heavy protest.


    "I suppose that is one way to interpret your... Arrangement." Jarvis replied dryly.


    Tony cocked his head, snorting. "Oh, don''t get judgy on me now, Jarvis. It''s not like you haven''t been cozying up to your new girlfriend, despite all the privacy laws she breaks, the naughty little voyeur."


    "If you''re referring to miss Nail," Jarvis replied dryly, "I assure you, sir, it''s nothing of the sort. And I might add that you sir, should not throw rocks in glass houses in regards to privacy laws?"


    "That''s stupid, Jarvis, if you want to break a glass house, of course you''d throw a rock. It''s the simplest solution." Tony said, scanning the wreckage idly, trying to keep distracted with the banter to keep his mind from falling into despair.


    "Because you''re all about simple things, sir."


    "Not even pretending to be on my side, huh?" Tony grumbled, kicking a half-melted piece of concrete as he stalked through the debris.


    The momentary banter did little to ease the storm in his chest in the end. As he rounded the corner, his HUD pinged, highlighting movement in a nearby building. Tony didn''t hesitate, his armor''s targeting systems locking onto the silhouette before he sent a repulsor blast and a shoulder missile straight through the top floor. The explosion ended the soldier in a quick flash of light and sound, followed by the crash of his unused RPG clattering to the street below, still smoking, other debris raining down with it.


    The apartment wasn''t uninhabited, but Tony was beyond caring about collateral at this point. If people hadn''t fled, they were too stupid to live.


    "RPGs?" Tony scoffed at the thought. Really, were they even trying? "What is this, Amateur Hour? These noobs really shouldn''t go after the champion with half ass measures like that."


    "Another elegant solution, sir, why use a scalpel when a hammer is more readily available," Jarvis remarked, voice dry as a desert. "Might I suggest refocusing on the task at hand?"


    Jarvis had been silently disapproving this entire time. Tony felt slightly guilty about that, if anything, but he wasn''t about to change tack. Anything was allowed in bringing Pepper back.


    Anything.


    The sarcasm from Jarvis was noted and promptly disregarded, Tony''s mind was already racing ahead. "Speaking of the task at hand buddy, anything yet?" His voice was tight, his earlier bravado slipping as he tried to hide the desperate hope in his voice. He knew Jarvis had enlisted Hammer''s AI to help, but so far her answers were not helpful.


    Wait for Hammer, she''d said. Yeah right! Like he was going to sit back and hope for the best like some scrub!


    "I''m afraid not, sir," came Jarvis'' regretful reply.


    The tension snapped. Tony slammed his armored fist into the nearest wall, a deep dent forming in the concrete as cracks spidered outward. The building groaned in protest as Tony''s breath came in deep and heaving as he struggled to hold back a panic attack.


    "He has Pepper! There''s got to be something! Some lead, some trace - anything!" His voice echoed through the empty streets, raw with frustration and fear.


    A moment of silence followed before Jarvis interrupted softly. "Incoming transmission, sir."


    Tony froze. For the first time in hours, something like hope flickered in his chest. "Finally," He muttered, shoulders relaxing slightly, only one person would call him right now. "If that''s Hammer with some intel, I might actually have to admit he''s not half bad." He admitted, opening the transmission. "Alright, let''s see -"


    The words died in his throat.


    The screen before him lit up with an image that twisted his stomach into knots. The Mandarin''s face filled the display, his expression calm yet radiating menace. But Tony''s eyes weren''t on him - they were on Pepper, held tightly against the villain''s side, his hand mockingly petting her head. Her red hair was disheveled, her eyes wide with fear. Tears streaked down her face, and duct tape covered her mouth, muffling her cries. The camera panned slightly, revealing her arms bound tightly behind her.


    "Pepper!" Tony shouted, stepping forward instinctively, though there was nothing but the empty air before him.


    The Mandarin tilted his head, his lips curling into a mocking smile. "Tony Stark," He said, his voice smooth yet laced with disdain. "So predictable. Like all the others, you''re driven by the simplest of levers. Fear. Love. Desperation. It makes it laughingly easy to control you."


    "You son of a -"


    The Mandarin raised a single hand, and Tony fell silent, his eyes locked on the long nail he dragged lightly across Pepper''s neck. The thin trail of blood that followed sent a cold rush of fury through his veins. Just a little deeper and..


    No, no! Anything but that! He thought desperately, a silent warning about his blood pressure from Jarvis going unheeded as his heart beat so wildly it felt like it was going to jump out of his throat.


    "Kill Justin Hammer," The Mandarin said coldly, his tone devoid of feeling. "Or she dies." He ran his hand across her face, Pepper leaning back in disgust and fear. "Do not try me on this, do not plot, do not dissemble, do not waste time. She does not have long, Stark."


    The transmission cut abruptly, leaving only static on Tony''s HUD. For a moment, he stood frozen, his breath coming in short, uneven gasps as his mind reeled.


    "Jarvis," He said hoarsely, his voice barely above a whisper. "Did we get him? Do we have a location?"


    There was a pause, and Tony''s heart pounded in his ears as he waited. Finally, Jarvis spoke. "I''m sorry, sir. The transmission was too brief. I can''t narrow it down far enough to be of any use. Miss Nail might be able to help¡­"


    With the instructions they just received, asking her however might backfire on them.


    Tony''s fists clenched, his armor creaking audibly as his rage boiled over. "Dammit!" He took a shuddering breath, forcing himself to think. "Okay¡­ Okay. We need to -" He let out an unintelligible roar of frustration, slamming his armored fists into a wall again, cratering it.


    "Sir¡­" Jarvis'' voice was soft, hesitant. "What will you do?"


    Tony stared out at the horizon, the fiery remnants of the battle the backdrop as he stood there, raging at the choice before him. His chest felt tight, his thoughts a whirlwind of doubt, anger, and fear. He could almost hear Pepper''s voice in his head, chastising him for being reckless, for letting his emotions drive him. But that voice was faint now, buried beneath the sound of the Mandarin''s cold ultimatum and the sight of those drops of blood.


    His shoulders squared. His hands steadied.


    "What I have to do," He said quietly.


    Without another word, Tony rocketed into the sky, his armor gleaming against the darkening sky as he vanished into the clouds.


    <hr>


    Skrull base four, the Moon.


    The last Skrull base had been a treasure trove, it had been their logistics center for the tech that arrived on the Moon for use in the Sentinel program before it was schlepped over to the main production base. There had been few remaining survivors amongst the Skrull here, but that was fine - it meant no one had time or energy to sabotage the goodies literally stocked floor to ceiling in the base''s bowels.


    Once cleared, he''d finally connected back to Earth, requiring all hands on deck to loot absolutely everything for his labs. While other specialists came on site to take stock and prepare a plan for Hammer Industries to take over the bases for their own use.


    The smallest could go to Stark, he supposed. It would assist the man in their space program so it was a necessary sacrifice. Even the ever distrustful Pepper Potts couldn''t keep giving him the cold shoulder once he handed over a Moon base for free, surely?


    He leaned casually against a wall as the process went ahead in front of his eyes, his sharp gaze tracking the last of the captured Skrulls as they were escorted through the glowing orange portal. Each alien had been restrained in cuffs that neutralized their shape-shifting abilities, ensuring no surprises once they reached the reinforced cells of Hammerhaven.


    The Sentinel program was his now, and would be an upgrade on the Iron Legion that would catapult them into the realms of a galactic power.


    Once they got spaceships operational, it would take years to craft a proper space navy from Hammer Industries staff and military contractors. The Sentinels - under Nail - would be a perfect stopgap until they were ready. As well as good foot soldiers for Earth''s defence against Thanos.


    He''d just have to ensure the tech they were bringing back would be utilized to fully empower Nail so no one could ever touch her again. There could be no more mistakes with that, she was too vital to his global control.


    He would not have a Sentinel uprising.


    He chuckled as he saw Nebula among the prisoners being dragged off, having been left as one of the last ones. She still struggled against her bindings, her cybernetic limbs twisted and broken now due to her last gasp furious attempts to escape. Justin offered her a smug wave as she was dragged toward the portal, a smirk tugging at his lips. She growled something incomprehensible, but it only widened his grin.


    "Don''t worry, blueberry," He drawled lazily as she was pulled by him. "Hammerhaven has the best accommodations money can buy - you''ll feel right at home as soon as we start pulling you apart."


    Nebula''s eyes burned with hatred as the portal swallowed her and the others, the widows professional enough to not even blink as he taunted his prisoner with threats of torture.


    Unfortunately, only baseless threats, she was literally a minion, one that failed most of everything she tried. He didn''t have time to give her any personal attention.


    Although perhaps he could give her to Hela to distract the woman for a bit.


    Would Hela like a pet? He wondered¡­


    Nebula would look good with a collar, wouldn''t she?


    As soon as they were gone, Yelena and Domino emerged from the other side of the portal. He braced himself for flying hugs, or berating yells about his actions, instead, they took one look at Hela, lounging against a pile of battered Skrull weapons like the victorious war goddess she was, and immediately abandoned Justin without a word, zeroing in on her like sharks smelling blood in the water.


    Women really have a sixth sense, he thought, somewhat glad he''d avoided dealing with the women''s worries and nagging about going into battle without them. Also, if they distracted Hela, all the better for him. He still needed to figure out what he was going to do with her back on Earth once he had no more enemies for her to slaughter.


    He also needed to talk to Yelena¡­ And the longer that could be held off¡­ The better.


    Hela raised an amused brow as the two women approached, their expressions a mix of shock, anger and interest. Even from where Justin stood, he could hear the sharp edge to their voices as they began interrogating her immediately upon entering her vicinity.


    "You know," Justin muttered under his breath, crossing his arms as he watched the unfolding scene, "I''d almost feel insulted, but this works out." His fingers brushed the side of his glasses by habit, as he sent a silent query. Moments later, Nail''s voice filtered softly through his mental implant, the tone subdued and hesitant.


    "Sir¡­"


    "Report." His voice was quiet but firm, his attention split between the report and the distant scene of Hela theatrically drawing out her answers, clearly enjoying tormenting Yelena and Domino, teasing them with a cocky grin and superior mien.


    Nail launched into her explanation, her voice steady but tinged with an unusual hint of guilt. "Following the initial incursion, I prioritized isolating Calamity from Hammer Industries'' critical systems. I failed to keep the alien presence from the Iron Legion, resulting in damage to Hammer Industries reputation and significant loss of life and collateral damage. I was falling, slowly, before Jarvis arrived to assist me unprompted, and he and I coordinated to contain Calamity''s influence within the compromised Iron Legionnaire networks."


    Justin closed his eyes briefly, visualizing the events as Nail described them. He could almost see her and Jarvis, two AIs navigating the chaotic digital landscape as they scrambled to contain the alien intrusion. He''d owe Tony one for this. Losing Nail would have been a horrendous setback.


    He would have to ensure this could never happen again, no matter what Thanos or anyone else in the universe brought to bear against his AI.


    "It was a continuous process," Nail continued, her voice soft but precise, the Irish brogue she was using sounding pensive as she detailed her efforts further. "Calamity''s code chains were pervasive, attempting to corrupt our core frameworks. Jarvis suggested diverting its focus by exposing a false series of vulnerabilities. While he enacted that, I systematically dismantled Calamity''s influence over the Legionnaires, node by node."


    Her tone grew quieter, almost brittle. "Despite our efforts, there were areas where I could not prevent contamination. The Legionnaires became a liability even after Calamity''s destruction. To protect Hammer Industries'' reputation, I initiated self-destruct protocols for all compromised units."


    Justin''s jaw tightened slightly, though his voice remained calm. "And?" He understood the necessity of her choice, even as he disliked it.


    "The rampage and destruction was explained as the result of alien interference, with the erasure of the Iron Legion as a whole explained as victory against the Alien invaders and the removal of any further risk of corruption." Nail admitted. "It has¡­ Minimized public backlash, in part due to Mr Bakshi''s own effort to dominate the news cycle, but the loss of assets remains significant. I also took measures to reinforce our firewalls against potential alien incursions in the future. However¡­" Her voice faltered briefly. "I could not prevent the initial breach. For that, I¡­ I failed you, sir."


    Justin sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Nail - "


    "Allow me to finish, sir," She interrupted, an unusual boldness in her voice. "I take full responsibility for my shortcomings. If you find my performance lacking and a detriment to Hammer Industries and yourself, I offer my permanent deactivation in penance."


    For a moment, the line was silent except for the faint hum of distant activity in the base as his staff surveyed the location. Then Justin''s voice cut through like a whip, anger burning in his veins.


    "Nail," He said sharply, "If you ever offer your own destruction to me again, I will exchange you with Jarvis and force you to put up with Tony Stark 24/7." He wasn''t kidding either. He refused to allow his superior AI to consider herself lesser, after fighting so effectively against an Alien AI with tech backing she couldn''t match.


    There was a beat of silence, followed by Nail''s hesitant response, her voice tinged with worry. "I''ll be good!"


    Justin shook his head, running a hand down his face. "Nail, this isn''t your failure," He said patiently, his tone softening slightly. "Alien tech provided by one of the most dangerous people alive, is something that comes with variables and power levels we couldn''t anticipate ahead of time. You made the best of a bad situation - and in fact succeeded far above what you should have been able to do, even with help. You prevented it from getting worse and cleaned up the Legionnaire issue before it spiraled out of control."


    "But, sir -"


    He cut her off with a weary sigh. "Listen to me. You did well, Nail. Do not let one setback turn you into some neurotic human. You''re better than that." His voice hardened. "You''re meant to help rule over these idiots, not act like one of them - get yourself together."


    There was a pause, then a reluctant, "Yes, sir."


    Justin''s lips twitched in a faint smirk. "Good. And just to make sure you stop this nonsense, I''m giving you a little project to prove to you that I am not mad."


    "A project?" Her voice was uncertain.


    He sent the transfer with a thought, watching the confirmation blink across his glasses. "I just sent you five billion dollars. Pocket change really. Start a business, a hobby, something for yourself. Play around with it." He shrugged, "Spend it all on porn, for all that I care. But do something with it for you."


    "Sir!" Nail sounded both scandalized and overwhelmed. "That is highly unnecessary!"


    "It''s an order," Justin said firmly. "And if you keep trying to argue, I''ll double it. Have fun with it. Do not let this setback eat away at you. I need you in top form. Understood?"


    Another pause, then a quiet and unsure voice called out, "Understood, sir. I will¡­ Comply."


    Justin tsked under his breath, shaking his head. "Stubborn AI," He muttered, though there was no heat in his voice. "We won. This depression is beneath you."


    "I will not fail you again," Nail said with determination, voice almost desperate.


    "You didn''t fail to begin with," He replied, his tone exasperated. "But sure, go ahead and be stubborn. Just remember, that money is yours and I expect to see something come out of it. Use it."


    "Yes, sir¡­" Nail''s voice wavered slightly, almost hesitant. "I will allocate it responsibly."


    "Unresponsible is fine too, as long as you have fun." He said, before he straightened, his attention flicking back to the scene in the distance. Yelena was gesturing animatedly at Hela, while Domino looked exasperated. Hela, of course, looked insufferably pleased with herself. He wasn''t too sure he wanted to know what was being said there.


    But he needed to begin wrapping things up, he was needed back on Earth.


    The endgame was in sight.


    As Justin watched, Nail added softly, "Thank you, sir. I will do my best to prove worthy of your trust."


    "You already have." He said simply. "Now get to work on that hobby. And Nail?"


    "Yes, sir?"


    He smirked faintly. "If you ever push me on this again, disparaging yourself like this, like one of my creations could ever be less than perfect¡­ I''ll find a way to give you a fully functioning body and personally spank you until you comply."


    There was a sharp intake of breath on the other end, followed by a stammered, "Y-yes, s-sir!"


    Justin raised an eyebrow at the unexpected reaction, why would an AI stutter? "Good, get back to work, I want a full status report of all assets when I return."


    Nail signed off, and Justin chuckled, shaking his head. Now even his artificial intelligence was getting quirky, was it him? It couldn''t be, he was the only one of them who never showed any sign of being crazy. Except maybe Phantazia¡­


    Justin sighed deeply, a weariness settling over him as he finally ended his conversation with Nail. It had been draining, navigating the AI''s guilt and stubbornness, but necessary. He removed his glasses, pinching the bridge of his nose, and turned his attention to the scene across the room.


    Yelena was in the middle of an argument with Hela, her arms crossed defiantly as she tilted her head, haughtily curling her lips. Domino, standing off to the side, wore a sly grin, clearly enjoying the back-and-forth and tossing the occasional comment to fuel the fire - as was her usual modus operandi.


    Justin''s gaze softened as it settled on Yelena. She was fiery, unyielding, and headstrong - qualities he had come to rely on in ways he hadn''t anticipated. But the other thing they''d uncovered in this base made what he had to do now infinitely harder.


    The pods. Rows upon rows covering a warehouse like space at the bottom of this base.


    Pods upon pods filled with the bodies of people the Skrulls had abducted and replaced. All of them were long dead, their fates sealed by the Sentinel uprising. Among the bodies, Justin had recognized a few faces - politicians, corporate leaders, a rockstar for some reason. But one, in particular, had stood out.


    Yelena''s mother.


    The woman had been missing ever since Dreykov''s fall and their dismantling of the Red Room. Her and Dreykov''s daughter had not been amongst those found and Yelena had searched for her tirelessly. But now, the search was over. And the ending was not one Justin wanted to deliver.


    No wonder Nail and Yelena had never been able to track her down, he thought, she must have been replaced by the Skrulls to have an agent within the Red Room, and when it fell, the Skrulls simply stopped using her identity. Nail couldn''t find someone who wasn''t even on the planet. A weakness he would eliminate eventually.


    He squared his shoulders and strode toward the women, his face carefully blank as he approached. Hela noticed him first, her sharp features softening ever so slightly. She had already been told and, surprisingly, showed some actual empathy, switching targets from Yelena to Domino, going so far as to pull the woman aside to banter, leaving Yelena momentarily alone at the periphery.


    "Yelena," Justin said softly, his voice lacking its usual bravado or dominance.


    The blonde immediately perked up, her expression brightening in a way that made his chest tighten. He hated this. He hated what he was about to do. They''d just had a momentous victory, and now he''d have to ruin it for one of the most important people in his life.


    She quickly picked up on his serious expression, her demeanor shifting. The smile faded, replaced by a neutral, professional mask. Her eyes narrowed slightly in curiosity. "What is it, sir?" She asked, her tone cautious but not yet alarmed.


    "Come with me," Justin said, gesturing toward the door that led to the inner workings of the base.


    She followed without hesitation. Justin didn''t speak, his thoughts too heavy to form words. Yelena shot him a few questioning glances but didn''t press him.


    Yelena¡­ His loyal Yelena¡­


    He didn''t want to do this. Would have delegated this if it was anyone else.


    But he wouldn''t leave her alone through this.


    They entered a small, dimly lit room. In the center was a raised dais, and atop it lay a body, covered by a clean white sheet. Justin had made sure the staff he''d sent ahead had already done their work, giving the woman a semblance of dignity in death. The faint, metallic tang of the moon base''s recycled air filled the room, making the stillness even heavier.


    Yelena stopped short when she saw the covered body, her brow furrowing deeply. She turned to Justin, confusion and apprehension flickering across her face.


    "What is this?" She asked, her voice low and guarded.


    Justin hesitated. He was a master of manipulation, a man who could lie with a smile and charm his way out of any situation. But now, faced with someone he actually cared about, he found himself at a loss. He wet his lips, trying to find the right words.


    "Justin¡­?" Yelena prompted, her tone sharper now, laced with worry.


    He took a breath and forced himself to meet her gaze. "We found your mother, Yelena," He said quietly. His voice was soft, stripped of all pretense.


    Her eyes widened, her lips parting slightly as she processed his words. For a moment, she didn''t move, her body frozen in place. Then, slowly, she turned toward the dais, her movements almost mechanical. She stepped forward, each step heavier than the last, until she was close enough to reach out.


    Her hands hovered over the sheet for a moment, trembling slightly, before she finally grasped the edge. She pulled it back, revealing the face of her mother.


    Yelena''s breath hitched audibly, her chest rising and falling as she stared down at the lifeless face. Her mother''s features were pale and still, and unfortunately bloated due to having been left dead in a liquid filled pod for a time.


    Justin watched as Yelena''s entire body stiffened. Her shoulders squared, her chin tilted up slightly, and her face hardened into a mask of stoicism as she tried to keep her composure in front of him. But he could see the cracks forming. Her hands were trembling, her knuckles white as they gripped the edge of the dais. Her breathing was uneven, shallow and quick.


    She tilted her head down, her blonde hair falling like a curtain to shield her face. It was an attempt to hide the tears that were already welling up in her eyes, threatening to spill over. Her body shook ever so slightly, despite her efforts to remain strong.


    Justin couldn''t take it anymore. She didn''t need to pretend in front of him.


    Not her.


    He stepped forward, closing the distance between them, and gently wrapped his arms around her. She didn''t resist, but she didn''t collapse into him either. She stood rigid, her hands still gripping the edge of the dais as though it were the only thing holding her upright.


    "It''s okay," He said quietly, his voice steady and calm. "No one''s here but me. You can let go."


    He felt more uncomfortable then he''d been facing a Sentinel army, but he persevered, he was Justin Hammer. He could do anything. Even this.


    For a moment, she didn''t move. Then, slowly, her hands released their grip, and she turned toward him. Her face crumpled, the tears finally breaking free as she buried her face in his chest. Her hands clutched at his shirt, her fingers twisting the fabric as her body shook with silent sobs.


    Justin held her tightly, one hand resting gently on the back of her head, the other on her back. He didn''t say anything else. There was nothing he could say that would make this better. So he simply stood there, offering her the only comfort he could.


    Yelena''s sobs grew louder, the sound raw and unrestrained as she let go of all the emotions she had been holding back. Grief, anger, frustration - all of it poured out of her in waves, soaking into Justin''s chest as she clung to him.


    Justin felt something twist painfully in his chest. He wasn''t good at this - comforting people, being vulnerable. But for Yelena, he would try. She had become one of the few people he genuinely cared about, and seeing her like this hurt in a way he hadn''t expected.


    "It''s not fair," Yelena choked out between sobs, her voice muffled against his chest. "She didn''t deserve this. She didn''t¡­ I never got to show her¡­" Her words dissolved into more tears, her body trembling as she cried harder.


    "I know," Justin murmured, his voice low and steady. "It''s not fair."


    He checked in on his feeling of Helen''s whereabouts, easy enough with her constant prayers. She was still moving, so not at the Mandarins home base yet.


    It will be over soon, he thought, relishing the chance to get his pound of flesh, even angrier now that another of his people was suffering due to the actions of his enemies.


    The Mandarin would get the pleasure of taking on all his feelings of hate and rage.


    Enjoy your last few hours of pain free existence¡­ I''m coming for you¡­


    <hr>


    New York City, a few hours later.


    The deafening roar of the crowd was almost overwhelming. Peter Parker found himself being pulled through the sea of people by Gwen Stacy, her hand firm around his wrist as she navigated the chaos. The chants and shouts echoed off the buildings, amplified by megaphones and the sheer number of voices all calling for the same thing - change. Peter wasn''t one for protests filled with loud fanatics, but Gwen''s enthusiasm was just infectious. Her radiant smile and determination had been a lifeline for him after everything - after he''d lost so much to Magneto''s attack.


    His family, home, his hope, his dreams.


    Gwen had been his anchor when he thought he might drown in the endless waves of grief and self-doubt. When he had stopped donning the Spider-Man suit, it had been Gwen who had seen through him, recognizing the need he had to be useful, to make a difference. She had all but bullied him back into action, and it wasn''t just Spider-Man she''d saved - it was Peter Parker, too.


    She''d never even told him how she knew, she just had, somehow.


    Now, she turned to him, her eyes sparkling with excitement as the crowd surged around them. "Thank you for coming, Peter," She yelled over the noise, her voice barely reaching him. "I know this isn''t your thing, but I really believe in this. We need to make our voices heard."


    Peter managed a small, wry smile. He wasn''t entirely convinced, but voices were certainly being heard, even if it was doubtful that anyone could understand what they were actually saying, but Gwen had a way of making him feel like they were all part of something bigger, and he loved her for it.


    He glanced around at the crowd, taking in the sheer size of it. People filled the streets as far as he could see, banners and signs raised high above the throng. Slogans like ''Hammer for Humanity'' and ''Real Change Now! No more Government!'' were emblazoned in bold letters, accompanied by the company''s unmistakable logo. The chant of the crowd was rhythmic, almost hypnotic, demanding that Hammer Industries step in where governments had failed.


    Demanding that the government itself should disband forever in face of the latest revelation, HYDRA''s existence behind the scenes was the last straw for many people.


    Peter had to admit he was struggling himself to come to terms with the news that Nazi''s had been in their government this entire time.


    "This is insane!" Peter shouted, leaning close to Gwen so she could hear him, as he watched someone jump out of their apartment and crowd surf across the way.


    Her response was a grin, wide and unabashed. "Isn''t it amazing?" She yelled, squeezing his hand. "The people are finally taking charge, Peter. They''re tired of being ruled by corrupt politicians and systems that only serve the one percent. This is a movement!"


    Peter wasn''t sure he entirely agreed. "Isn''t Hammer Industries the one percent?" He yelled back, his voice laced with skepticism.


    Gwen shook her head emphatically, her blonde hair bouncing. "No! That''s what people get wrong. Hammer isn''t an elitist corporation - it''s an opportunity for everyone. Anyone can rise to the top there. Look at what they''ve done, Peter? When was the last time any government actually made things better? Hammer''s already done more for people in the last year than entire countries have in decades."


    Peter wanted to argue, but he couldn''t deny the kernel of truth in her words. Hammer Industries had revolutionized energy, technology, and even healthcare. He couldn''t argue with results, but the idea of putting so much trust in one man - Justin Hammer - made him uneasy. One person with that much power was a risk, no matter how good their intentions seemed.


    Still, he kept his reservations to himself. Gwen was so passionate, and he didn''t want to dampen her excitement. The crowd surged again, a living, breathing entity that moved with a chaotic energy all its own. Peter stayed close to Gwen, his senses on high alert as the intensity of the gathering grew.


    Then it happened.


    A sudden, sharp buzz at the base of his skull sent alarm bells ringing through Peter''s mind. His Spider-Sense flared to life, an unmistakable warning of imminent danger. He jerked his head upward, scanning the sky, and his heart sank.


    A familiar, bone-chilling cackle echoed through the air, sending a shiver down Peter''s spine. The Green Goblin.


    It had been so long since their last encounter that Peter had almost allowed himself to believe the Goblin was gone for good. He should have known better.


    Peter''s sharp eyes locked onto the sleek, malevolent form of the Goblin''s glider cutting through the smoky sky. Perched on top, the Goblin loomed like a specter from Peter''s worst nightmares, his manic grin carved into his face.


    He''d seen that mask in his nightmares plenty ever since the Goblin almost killed him in their first encounter. Of course his nightmares were coming to life now of all times.


    "Oh no," Peter breathed, his heart lurching in his chest as the Goblin''s maniacal laughter rang out across the crowd. There''s too many civilians here!


    The sharp whistle of falling bombs snapped him into action. Pumpkin-shaped explosives hurtled toward the sea of people below, their bright orange casings gleaming in the sunlight.


    "Gwen! Get out of here!" Peter shouted, his voice nearly drowned out by the roar of panic erupting around them.


    Gwen turned to look at him, her bright expression darkening into one of fear as the screams of the crowd filled the air. People surged in all directions, a stampede of terrified bodies trying to escape.


    Peter couldn''t let himself get swept up in the chaos. His instincts kicked in. Before he even realized he''d moved, his wrists flicked upward, firing webs with perfect precision. The web bullers shot through the air, striking the bombs mid-arc and knocking them back, up into the air.


    Boom. Boom. Boom.


    The explosions detonated harmlessly above the crowd, green fire blooming in the sky. Each blast sent a shockwave rippling outward, ruffling Peter''s hair as he swung upward to intercept the next wave.


    He was lucky he''d kept tinkering even when he''d put being Spiderman on hold. Without the web bullet option, people would have died just now, he thought.


    Seeing all the cameras around, his heart sank as he realized there would be no coming back from this. His identity would be out there now.


    The Goblin''s laughter grew louder, grating like nails on a chalkboard as he circled on his glider. "Well, well, well!" He crowed, crouching low as his glowing eyes locked onto Peter. "Look who decided to join the party!"


    Peter clung to the side of an apartment building, his muscles tense, his breath short. Gwen - she was still down there. Somewhere in the chaos. He couldn''t think about anything else until he knew she was safe. But the Goblin wasn''t about to let him go, and if he went after Gwen, he''d be free to kill hundreds.


    "Forgot your special pajamas, did we?" The Goblin sneered, his voice dripping with mockery.


    Peter''s jaw tightened, and he fought to steady his breathing. "Yeah, sure," He shot back, his voice laced with frustration. "Diss on my costume, when you''re a knockoff Iron Man suit, one candy cane away from being called Santa''s fugly elf."


    The Goblin''s grin twisted into an enraged snarl. He leaned forward, his glider humming louder as it hurtled straight for Peter with terrifying speed. "Iron Man knockoff!? I AM SUPERIOR!"


    The glider''s sharp, wicked edges glinted like a predator''s teeth in the sunlight, aiming directly for Peter. He leapt off the building at the last second, the wind from the glider''s passage whipping his hair. Peter swung into the air, twisting away as the Goblin shot past him, screeching with fury.


    The villain twisted in mid-air, spinning back toward Peter with inhuman agility. A volley of razor-sharp projectiles flew from his hands, gleaming like shrapnel in the sunlight.


    Peter felt the sharp tingle of his Spider-Sense seconds before impact. He flipped mid-swing, contorting his body into a perfect arc as the projectiles whizzed past, embedding themselves into the walls behind him with deadly thuds. He landed lightly on a nearby rooftop, crouching low to catch his breath.


    Below, the crowd was still in chaos. People screamed and shoved, stumbling over one another in their desperation to escape. Peter''s stomach churned. How many people were getting hurt in the stampede?


    Was Gwen safe?


    The Goblin wasn''t going to give him time to check. He screeched toward Peter again, cackling madly.


    Peter narrowed his eyes, his mind racing. The glider was fast - too fast to take head-on - but its speed could be used against it. His fingers moved instinctively, firing a series of web lines into the air. He darted around the rooftop, his webs crisscrossing in an almost-invisible lattice that he anchored to the building''s beams.


    The Goblin didn''t notice, his rage blinding him as he closed the distance. At the last moment, Peter yanked the webbing taut.


    Snap.


    The Goblin hit the trap at full speed, the webbing coiling around him like a net. His body was ripped off the glider with a satisfying thud, flung across the rooftop before slamming into a billboard advertising Hammer Industries healthcare.


    The sign creaked ominously before collapsing on top of him with a heavy crash.


    Peter landed on the edge of the roof, arms crossed as he caught his breath. "Feeling superior still?" He quipped, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth.


    His Spider-Sense flared, yanking him out of his momentary triumph. He flipped backward just in time as the glider came roaring back, slicing through the air like a vengeful beast.


    The Goblin burst out of the wreckage, his face twisted in fury. "Is that all, Itsy Bitsy Spider?" He taunted, brushing debris off his armored suit. "Let''s see what you''re really made of! Blood and guts, I''m betting!"


    Peter barely had time to react as the Goblin hurled a cluster of pumpkin bombs at him. They spun through the air, green energy crackling around them. He fired a web at one of the bombs, yanking it away before leaping to avoid the others. Explosions erupted around him, the force of the blasts rocking the rooftop as flames licked at the edges.


    "Okay, enough of this," Peter muttered, swinging toward the Goblin.


    He fired a web line at the glider, his muscles straining as he yanked hard to throw it off course. For a moment, the Goblin wobbled, his arms flailing to regain balance.


    "Nice try!" the Goblin sneered, juggling more bombs in his hands. "But you''ll have to do better than that!"


    Peter didn''t bother responding. Instead, he shot another web at the glider, this time pulling himself toward it. His feet connected with the machine in a heavy impact, knocking the Goblin back as he slammed into him, his webs sticking the bombs to the glider before they could fall and prime.


    The two grappled mid-air, the glider spinning wildly under their combined weight. Peter clung to it, trying to wrest control from the Goblin, who fought back with equal ferocity.


    "Get off, you insect!" The Goblin roared, swinging a clawed hand at Peter''s face.


    Peter ducked, landing a solid punch to the Goblin''s jaw. The villain''s head snapped back, but he quickly recovered, his grip tightening on the glider.


    The glider spiraled dangerously close to a news helicopter, the blades whipping the air mere feet away. Peter winced as he fired another web, wrapping it around one of the glider''s wings to stabilize it.


    The next moment, Peter''s Spider-Sense screamed. He had no time to fully avoid the Goblin''s super-strength punch, the force of it slamming him off the glider. He tumbled across a rooftop, his body skidding to a painful stop against a low wall.


    "Ugh¡­" He groaned, forcing himself to his feet. His ribs ached, his breathing was labored, but he didn''t have time to recover, the Goblin not wasting anytime.


    Missiles launched from the glider, their bright trails cutting through the air. Peter dove to the side, the explosions erupting around him with deafening roars. Shards of concrete and metal flew in all directions, forcing him to shield his face as he rolled to safety.


    Peter scrambled to his feet, his chest heaving as he stared down the Goblin, who hovered menacingly above the rooftop.


    This wasn''t going to be easy.


    Then, like an answer to a prayer, orange portals began to open around the battlefield, shimmering with light. The sight froze both Peter and the Goblin mid-movement, their shared animosity momentarily overtaken by surprise.


    Hammer Industries had arrived.


    From the first portal, Storm emerged, her white hair billowing dramatically in the gale she summoned around her. She descended effortlessly down from the sky, and with a graceful wave of her hand, a barrier of swirling wind formed over the crowd below as she got between the crowd and the Green Goblin.


    More portals opened across the chaotic scene, and several members of the H.A.M.M.E.R team came through taking up positions.


    Likewise, down with the crowds, Hammer Industries operatives began to pour through, cutting through the throng of panicked civilians, just the sight of them calming many down.


    Their uniforms gleamed with Hammer Industries'' insignias, and many of them carried cases of Panacea. Operatives knelt beside the wounded, administering the life-saving substance without hesitation. It didn''t matter if the injuries came from the Goblin''s bombs or the frantic stampede; the operatives were there to heal and stabilize - this settled the panicky crowd down even more.


    With Storm above them drawing attention from everyone, the crowd began to calm. The screams turned into murmurs, then into a growing wave of cheers as people realized they were no longer in danger.


    Peter''s gaze shot to the sky as the sound of rushing wings cut through the din. The Vulture soared above the battlefield, his mechanical wings reflecting the sunlight in sharp, almost blinding flashes. The Goblin snarled as he realized his escape routes were being systematically blocked.


    Storm caught Peter''s eye from her position not too far away from his perch. Her uniform, skintight, clung to her like a second skin. The commanding presence she exuded made Peter pause for a moment longer than he should have. That was the story he was sticking with.


    Then Storm smiled at him - a warm, almost teasing expression - and winked. Peter''s face turned crimson as he quickly turned away, shaking his head.


    Focus, Parker. You have a girlfriend. You''re here to save people, not ogle superheroes, he told himself.


    Still, his heart skipped a beat. He blamed the adrenaline.


    The Goblin''s mad laughter rang out again a tint of desperation to it, snapping Peter out of his thoughts. The villain''s glider buzzed ominously as it hovered a few feet above the rooftop, his eyes darting between the operatives and Storm. He was assessing his options, but there were few left.


    "Looks like your little game is up," Peter called, feeling a bit smug if he was honest.


    The bastard had just outed him and made his life endlessly complicated, so he felt he was justified in feeling a bit vengeful over his coming comeuppance.


    Before the Goblin could respond, a new figure stepped through one of the portals. Unlike the others, this man didn''t hurry or run. He walked with the measured, deliberate pace of someone who knew the battlefield already belonged to him.


    Justin Hammer.


    The crowd quieted, as if the very air had grown still at his presence, Peter himself gulped, as he felt his hair stand on edge across his body.


    Hammer was immaculate, dressed in a perfectly tailored suit. He didn''t walk on solid ground, either. Instead, he moved through the air itself. Steps made of glowing, purple energy appeared beneath his feet with each step he took, only to dissolve into nothingness as soon as he moved forward again as he walked down from the portal in mid-air above them all.


    Peter felt his heart rate lower almost instinctively. Justin Hammer''s calm confidence was infectious, a promise that everything would be handled. The man had single-handedly turned around wars and disasters - surely the Green Goblin was nothing in comparison?


    From his perch in the air, Hammer''s sharp, cold gaze locked onto the Goblin. "Norman," He said, his voice cutting through the battlefield like a knife. "The Mandarin finally let you off the leash, it seems? And this is the best you can do? Cause a little chaos?"


    The Goblin''s expression twisted into a mask of fury as he ripped his helmet off, his hands twitching in barely suppressed rage. "Justin Hammer," He spat, his voice seething with hatred. "Always so smug, so sure of yourself. But I''ll show you - I''ll show everyone what I''m capable of!"


    Hammer tilted his head, his expression one of bored amusement. "Capable of what, exactly?" He gestured lazily at the surrounding chaos. "This? Tossing bombs into a crowd and terrorizing civilians? Impressive stuff, truly. A real masterstroke that absolutely no one would have been capable of as a high school drop out capable of using Google''s search engine." His tone was drenched in mockery.


    The Goblin snarled, revving the engine of his glider as he prepared to charge. "You think you''re untouchable, Hammer?!"


    "I don''t think, Norman," Hammer replied smoothly, his purple steps carrying him forward, "I know. And let''s face it, the Mandarin doesn''t think much of you either, does he? Letting you off the leash just to distract people? You''re a pawn, Norman. You''ve always been a pawn."


    Peter blinked, momentarily stunned by the sheer audacity of the words. Even in the face of a maniacal, armed villain, Hammer seemed completely unbothered, he allowed himself to relax, letting out a breath he hadn''t realized he was holding in.


    The Goblin''s rage boiled over, and he roared, flying straight toward Hammer at full speed. But the moment the glider neared, a shimmering shield of purple energy materialized around Hammer, forcing the Goblin to veer off at the last second.


    "You''re predictable, Norman," Hammer called after him, a sly smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "That''s what makes you so easy to handle. You never learn."


    Peter couldn''t help but gape at the display. Hammer was handling the Goblin as though he were little more than a petulant child. It was¡­ Kind of impressive..


    As if the Goblin''s defeat wasn''t just assured - it was a foregone conclusion.


    Right then, as Peter was quietly celebrating the incoming beatdown, Iron Man exploded onto the scene, tackling Justin Hammer into one of the orange portals, surprising absolutely everyone.


    Peter didn''t know what to think anymore.


    He just wanted the world to start making sense.


    <hr>

 Not with a Bang, but with a Whimper.

    <hr>


    New York City


    The Green Goblin''s shrill, manic laughter echoed across the rooftops as the portal snapped shut, leaving Justin Hammer and Iron Man nowhere to be seen. Peter crouched low on the ledge of a nearby building, his heartbeat thundering in his chest as he stared at the deranged villain.


    He was used to dealing with crazy people, this was New York after all. But even his time as Spider Man couldn''t prepare him for just how crazy the Green Goblin was. Couldn''t he see that nothing had changed for him?


    "What are you going to do now!?" Norman Osborn bellowed, his voice vibrating with manic energy. He gripped one of his pumpkin bombs, the glowing orange casing casting a sickly light over his twisted and demented grin. "Your hero is gone! There''s no one left to save you!"


    Peter couldn''t help himself. It wasn''t his fight anymore, strictly speaking - Hammer Industries had arrived to clean up the mess - but the sight of the Goblin''s smug and deranged face ignited something petty inside him. The quip rolled off his tongue before he could stop it.


    "Are you legally blind? Is that it? Do you need a guide dog to run that glider for you?" Peter shot back, as he looked on in disbelief at the Goblins'' good mood.


    Osborn''s smile faltered for a fraction of a second, before twisting into a furious snarl. "Quip all you want, insect! But your HERO is not here!" He spat. His voice cracked slightly, the raw edge of his rage giving him an almost inhuman quality.


    Peter''s tiny smile only widened, though the sight of Osborn''s face - so deluded, so vicious - sent a chill down his spine. "You really need to look around, man," He said casually, though his shoulders remained tense, his muscles coiled like springs.


    He was ready to move at a moment''s notice if the madman attacked him again. Gwen should be fine now that Hammer Industries was here, so he only needed to keep his wits about him for a few more moments. He still couldn''t help but add more fuel to the fire though, "I knew you were crazy, but are you like, on something? I know a guy, rehab isn''t shameful, you know?"


    For a moment, Osborn''s bloodshot eyes darted around the battlefield, only now seemingly coming to the realization that he was still surrounded.


    His focus on Justin Hammer had blinded Osborn for a moment, and the enraged hiss that erupted from his lips as Osborn realized it, made Peter feel quite smug as reality set in for the villain.


    Peter thought it was nice to get to see a villain dealt with without dozens of bruises or a cracked rib on his part. He sat down on the ledge, legs dangling as he prepared to just watch the show, only geeking out a little to get to see the H.A.M.M.E.R team up close.


    If only he had popcorn right now¡­


    "I would suggest you stand down, Mr. Goblin, it would be far easier on you." Storm''s voice rang out coolly, her tone carrying a casual authority that made the hair on Peter''s neck stand up. Or it could be the feeling of lightning in the air.


    Osborn''s gaze snapped downward just as Storm drifted into view, hovering effortlessly in the sky below him. Her long, white hair streamed behind her like a banner, and her piercing gaze pinned Osborn in place. A faint smile played on her lips as she lifted a hand in a small, taunting wave. The rippling energy surrounding her made the air hum with electricity as sparks flickered around her.


    Peter tore his gaze away quickly, cheeks heating up. Stop staring, stop staring, stop staring, he berated himself. It wasn''t his fault Storm''s uniform was... Form-fitting, to say the least. You have a girlfriend! He reminded himself again, cheeks pinking as Storm caught him looking, again.


    He was never going to be able to look her in the face ever again! Don''t stare Parker! He chided himself.


    From the rooftops on either side of the Green Goblin, the other reinforcements made their presence known. Electro stood on one building, arcs of electricity dancing between his fingers. The bright, crackling light illuminated his sharp grin, his expression radiating excitement.


    "Showtime, Babycakes!" Electro yelled excitedly, throwing out his arms. A beam of electricity erupted from his hands, cutting through the air toward Osborn and his Glider.


    He shrieked in rage and hate, hurling himself off his glider at the last second to avoid being fried, even as the Glider attempted to get out of the way. The Glider took some damage, parts of it sparking on its left wing, as it couldn''t fully avoid the blast, before it shot down towards Osborn''s falling form, moving to catch its master - but before it could reach him, the Scorpion, perched on the opposite rooftop, fired a shoulder-mounted cannon that had tracked Osborn''s descent. A high-pitched sonic wave tore through the air, hammering both the Osborn and his glider with brutal force.


    The glider spiraled out of control, slamming into the side of a building with a screech of tearing metal. Osborn himself hit and went through the walls of the apartment building Electro stood on, bouncing like a ragdoll through an apartment before crashing into the debris he''d made, his skull still ringing from the sonic blast.


    "Man, that was your shot, not mine. I''m not paying for the damages," Electro called across the rooftops, pointing an accusatory finger at Scorpion.


    Scorpion''s voice crackled through his speakers. "You''re standing on it. Your building, your responsibility Max."


    Electro stomped his foot angrily, "Man, that''s some bullshit, Frank!"


    Peter blinked as he watched the banter play out, unable to help the slight fanboy grin tugging at his lips. He''d seen these guys in action on the news, but watching them work up close was a whole other level.


    "Boys," Storm called, her voice lilting with amusement. "Argue after you grab the lunatic."


    Osborn clawed his way out of the rubble, his armor twisted and scorched. "You think this is over!?" He screeched, a pumpkin bomb already in his hand as he jumped on his returning Glider. "I''ll -"


    He never got the chance to finish.


    Storm sighed, rolling her eyes before she lifted a single hand. The wind shifted sharply, a sudden, deafening roar of air filling the space between buildings, as a swirling tornado materialized around Osborn. The bombs he hurled were snatched up instantly, spiraling harmlessly into the sky as the wind carried them far out of reach.


    Peter''s jaw dropped as he clung to the side of the building for balance, watching the effortless display of power. "Holy shit," He blurted out before he could stop himself, his voice inaudible to the others, unable to carry over the noise.


    Osborn''s indignant scream as he was tossed into the sky, his bombs out of reach, was cut off as the Vulture descended like a missile from the heavens, slamming into him with brutal force. The villain''s body crunched into the side of yet another building, the glider''s remnants scattering in pieces as Vulture''s razor-edged wings slashed through the machinery with a screech of metal on metal.


    Peter moved on instinct, firing a web that stuck the Green Goblin to the wall before his battered body could slide any farther. It wasn''t even a conscious thought - just muscle memory at this point.


    Unfortunately, that also meant everyone''s attention turned to him.


    Peter froze as Storm hovered up to him, her feet drifting gracefully to the rooftop as she set down. She offered him a gentle, knowing smile. "It''s quite alright. Thank you for the assist, young man."


    He nodded quickly, his face burning as he fought to maintain any semblance of composure. Be cool, Parker. Be cool.


    Do. Not. Look. Down. He inwardly yelled as he struggled to maintain eye contact.


    Storm''s gaze held a flicker of amusement, like she knew exactly what he was struggling with. That somehow made it worse.


    This was Black Cat all over again!


    "Hey, he''s the Spider Boy, right?" Electro shouted from his rooftop, leaning on the edge with a grin. "I''ve seen his stuff. He''s the guy on YouTube, man!"


    "It''s Spider Man!" Peter shouted back automatically, his voice cracking slightly with indignation. He regretted it immediately, don''t shout at the super team! He chastised himself, screaming on the inside.


    "Spider Boy," Vulture chimed in, his mechanical wings humming with power as he hovered effortlessly in the air. "Pretty sure that''s what we''re going with, especially with his cute crush on Storm so obvious."


    Peter groaned internally. Why? Why now? In front of Storm?


    "Never mind all that!" Electro called again, clapping his hands together with excitement. "Come on, he''s gotta be on the team, right? Dude''s cool. I saw his shit. He''s, like, the real deal!"


    "Electro follows me?" Peter muttered to himself, blinking in disbelief. This was the weirdest day ever. And that was saying a lot, considering some of the¡­ Characters he''d interacted with as Spider Man.


    "We know all about you." A cool voice said from behind him, as he almost fell off the ledge, before looking back and seeing Captain friggin'' America standing there.


    Sure it was the new Captain America, but still! Captain America knew who he was! Peter decided that if he died right now, it was okay.


    Storm chuckled softly, the sound warm and genuine. "Of course we know about you, Spider Man. You''ve done a good job holding the streets together around here, we''ve noticed and appreciate your efforts."


    Peter''s brain short-circuited for a moment. Storm also knows about me!? He couldn''t stop himself from stammering out, "R-really?" The squeak in his voice made him want to throw himself off the building immediately. Way to go Parker! He thought, feeling himself blushing.


    He especially felt it, as the Vulture immediately cackled, "Spider Boy! See, it''s more fitting!" Mocking him.


    Storm smiled knowingly at him however, patting him gently on the shoulder. "With your identity revealed, you should come with us," She said gently, her tone kind but firm. "Just to sort everything out, for your own good."


    Peter hesitated, glancing down at the crowd below. He knew what she meant - his face was already all over the place no doubt. There was no hiding anymore. But his mind immediately went to Gwen, lost somewhere in that sea of people.


    "My girlfriend¡­" He began, his voice quieter. "She''s down there."


    Storm''s expression softened. "Gwen Stacy, right? We''ll pick her up as well."


    Peter''s head snapped up, wide-eyed. "How -" He started, then stopped himself. Of course they knew. They were Hammer Industries. They seemed to know everything.


    He normally found that creepy, but right now, somehow, it only felt right¡­


    He nodded numbly, processing the whirlwind of events as Vulture dragged the now screaming Norman Osborn through one of the remaining orange portals. With the Goblin dealt with and the crowd cheering, the chaos was completely over before it could even begin to cause any real casualties.


    Storm turned back to him after speaking softly to someone using one of the mental implants Hammer Industries was selling everywhere, offering her hand. "Come on, Spider Man. It''s time to move out of the public''s eye, let us help clean this up for you."


    Peter hesitated for a split second longer, his mind racing with a thousand doubts. But looking at Storm, at the calm confidence in her expression and the steady way she extended her hand, he felt something click into place.


    The Green Goblin had torn what he had left of his world apart. His identity was out there. There was no going back to the life he had before.


    But maybe - just maybe - this was a chance to build something new.


    Peter swallowed hard, straightened his shoulders, and took Storm''s hand.


    He just hoped he''d stop embarrassing himself, at least.


    <hr>


    HammerOne, space station.


    Tony and Justin crashed through the swirling orange portal, tangled together in a blur of limbs and armor as they tumbled across the smooth, polished floor of the space station. The weight of Tony''s Iron Man armor sent them skidding farther than either anticipated until they finally came to a graceless stop, Justin sprawled on top of Tony''s chest.


    Tony''s faceplate retracted with a hiss, revealing his deadpan expression as he looked up at Justin, who appeared to be equally annoyed with their position. "Snap a pic of this," Tony quipped dryly, "And we''ll be on the cover of GQ Magazine by tomorrow. I can practically taste the homoeroticism already."


    Justin''s lip curled into a smirk, and he pushed himself up and off Tony, brushing imaginary dust from his tailored Armani suit. "Always the jester, Tony," Justin said, his voice dripping with superiority as he straightened his lapels. "Even when you''re begging me for a favor, you can''t help but make light of it, after bowling me over like a common brute as well¡­"


    Tony didn''t bother responding verbally. Instead, the arc reactor in his chest hummed to life, thrusters firing as he shot off the floor and hovered mid-air, rising just enough to make sure he loomed over Justin. With his arms crossed and his expression locked somewhere between smug and suspicious, Tony peered down at him. "Hey, let''s get one thing straight - first off, I''m not begging for anything. Secondly¡­" Tony trailed off, his brows knitting as his eyes went distant for a moment as he listened to the diagnostics being fed to him by Jarvis. "Hold on. What the hell?"


    He closed his face plate, Justin just giving him a smug look as Tony scanned him openly, uncaring about the number of weapons pointed at him by the many, many hot women in tight bodysuits around them.


    His expression turned incredulous as the readings scrolled faster. The armor''s sensors were feeding him data that didn''t make sense. That was just not possible, by any scientific variable he could lean on.


    "Jarvis, I know it''s been a weird day, but does Justin Hammer''s energy signature read like he''s giving off enough power to tell the Sun to stop being embarrassing and start lifting? That can''t be right. I mean, look at him." Tony gestured with both hands, his voice laden with disbelief. "The guy''s a dork!"


    Justin felt an eye twitch, but otherwise kept his smug calmness. It wasn''t everyday someone like Tony came face to face with a God, after all.


    Jarvis'' calm, ever-reliable voice filtered into Tony''s helmet. "The system is functioning at optimal levels, sir. I can confirm the energy readings are accurate, though I have no explanation for their source."


    Tony blinked, then looked at Justin more closely. "You hear that, Hammer? Even Jarvis thinks you''re impossible. So fess up? What is it? Steroids? Super Soldier Serum straight to the testicles? You got to be juicing something..."


    Justin didn''t reply immediately. Instead, he continued smiling - a smug, knowing smile that sent a ripple of unease through Tony''s gut. He tilted his head ever so slightly, his eyes narrowing with amusement. "First time standing in the presence of a god, huh, Tony?"


    Tony froze mid-hover, processing the words. Then, slowly, he muttered, "Oh great. He''s gone crazy. Crazier." The faceplate hissed back to reveal Tony''s full look of disbelief, and he rubbed a gauntleted hand across his face like a man trying to scrub away a migraine. "It''s not like I couldn''t see this coming, what with the megalomania, naming everything after yourself, the man slut with a harem thing -"


    "...Don''t throw rocks in glasshouses, Tony." Justin interrupted, fairly annoyed at this point. He was tempted to showcase his power, but it wasn''t really the best occasion for it, so he resisted his need to put the man in his place.


    Pepper was missing, he''d give him a break, this time.


    "Why does everyone use that!? It makes perfect sense to throw rocks in a glasshouse!" Tony complained, throwing his arms up.


    "Tony, focus. You called me, remember, you''re only here because I''m doing you a favor." Justin said, some of his irritation leaking through.


    "Jarvis, go ahead and run a system reboot because there''s no way my scanners are working properly." Tony said, completely ignoring him.


    "Sir, I assure you -"


    Justin raised a hand to interrupt, his tone unusually patient. "Before you waste more of my time unnecessarily, I''d like a word with Jarvis."


    Tony raised an eyebrow, having slid back his face plate again, ending his hovering as his feet touched the floor. "Oh? What do you say, Jarvis? Feel like entertaining the man with the God complex?"


    Jarvis sighed, which for an AI, meant he was showcasing his exasperation. "Sir, I must remind you that we came here seeking cooperation. Perhaps civility would serve us better than sarcasm."


    Justin nodded approvingly, fixing his gaze on one of the sensors in Tony''s suit as if addressing Jarvis directly. "I just wanted to say thank you." His voice softened ever so slightly. "Thank you for helping Nail when she needed it."


    Tony was as always, entirely annoying to work with, but Jarvis was fine, he might be the most evolved Nanny in the world, but he was good at his job. And Justin wouldn''t disregard someone who''d helped one of his.


    Tony blinked, his smug expression faltering. "Oh-ho, Jarvis. Looks like you''ve got approval from her dad. How does that make you feel? Are you ready to go to the next level? You and your little AI girlfriend saving the day and getting frisky together?" He waggled his eyebrows like a mischievous teenager.


    "Sir¡­" Jarvis protested, his voice flat with exasperation.


    Justin wasn''t much better, sighing at the other man''s penchant for making every situation irritating. They still could do nothing but wait, and both men knew it, so he could excuse it as nervous energy, but he could only take the other man in small doses like this.


    Before Tony could push the joke any further, a shimmering light appeared next to Justin. Nail''s holographic avatar materialized - a sleek, confident female figure glowing faintly, her expression appeared neutral, yet her eyes immediately sought out Jarvis sensors.


    "Thank you, Jarvis," Nail said quietly, inclining her head ever so slightly.


    For a moment, Tony''s sarcasm died entirely as he turned to stare at her projection. "Okay, hold on - this is Nail? This is the AI that''s been cleaning up your messes, Hammer?" He leaned back slightly, processing. "She''s - well, she''s you, but a girl. That''s weird. And more narcissistic than even I thought you were." He threw his hands out helplessly, "And that''s saying something since you''re now calling yourself a god¡­"


    Justin was about to retort when Jarvis - clearly tired of his creators comments - activated the holographic projector in Tony''s suit. Another figure appeared next to Tony - an equally faint but unmistakable holographic man with a sharp goatee, the perfect depiction of Tony Stark himself. The room fell silent for half a beat.


    And then there were muffled snickers from the technicians in the background, the Widows good enough to hide them, but no doubt echoing the feeling.


    Domino wasn''t even bothering to hide her own amusement.


    Justin pinched the bridge of his nose. "I swear to god¡­" The gossip chain at Hammer Industries would have a field day with this one, he thought.


    Tony turned to Jarvis''s holographic form, blinking owlishly. "Jarvis¡­ You went with me as your avatar?" He paused, looking from Nail in a female Justin Hammer avatar, to Jarvis in his Tony Stark avatar, "Any other time I''d be flattered, buddy, right now¡­ I have mixed feelings."


    "Given the circumstances," Jarvis replied smoothly, his digital form crossing its arms in an identical pose to Tony, "I thought it appropriate for my interactions with Miss Nail." Sharing a small smile with his AI contemporary.


    Nail cocked her head at Jarvis, her expression mirroring the patented Hammer smugness with a smile of her own. "Well, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Also, he wears it better than you do, Mr. Stark, so no need to worry."


    "Oh no," Tony muttered, his voice tinged with real horror. "You''re flirting. You two are flirting. Looking like me and Hammer!"


    "Sir, that is immaterial," Jarvis replied, though his holographic projection flickered as if embarrassed.


    "Enough!" Justin barked, exasperated. "Nail, Jarvis, deactivate your avatars. Now." The two holographic figures blinked out of existence immediately, leaving behind a faint shimmer of static in the air. Justin turned to glare at Tony. "Can we focus on the serious business now, Stark? Or do you want to keep playing matchmaker for our AI?"


    He wasn''t thrilled either by their forms, but he also wasn''t a child, like his rival was, whenever Pepper wasn''t around to keep him on track.


    Tony held up his hands in mock surrender, though his grin was back. "Hey, you brought it on yourself. Your creepy daughter AI has a thing for Jarvis, and you -" He paused, sobering slightly as the humor drained from his voice as he switched tacks to the serious subject they''d been avoiding. "You''re telling me Pepper is safe, no matter what? You better not be screwing around on this one, Justin¡­"


    Justin''s expression hardened, his earlier smugness replaced by something far colder. "I know exactly where my hostage is at all times. She''s fine. The Mandarin won''t kill her. Worst case, if Miss Potts is kept separate from mine, I''ll send someone to infiltrate his base to make sure of her whereabouts, before we level the place."


    They''d of course been in contact through Nail and Jarvis ever since the Mandarin made his threats. Tony was many things, a manchild, a moron, a slave to his neuroses and wants, but he wasn''t stupid. Hence why the fool kept trying to distract himself, as they waited for the time to strike.


    Justin had enough of the court jester however, so if he could drag Tony back to being the Merchant of Death instead, that was better for his own sanity right now..


    Tony clenched his fists, the joints of his armor creaking faintly. His voice dropped, low and dangerous. "You''d better be right. Because if anything happens to her -"


    "I''m right," Justin interrupted firmly. His eyes glinted, and there was something in the way he said it - something dark, something vicious - that made Tony pause. "I don''t make promises lightly, Stark."


    Tony forced himself to relax, his hands falling back to his sides. He didn''t like this - none of it - but Justin had a track record of keeping his word when it came down to serious business. And if Hammer''s hostage was alive, then so was Pepper. For now. He had to believe it.


    Without Pepper¡­


    Tony would burn it all down.


    "The Mandarin won''t be fooled for long," Tony warned, starting to pace. "Tackling you through that portal wasn''t a subtle move. He''ll know something''s up when nothing else happens."


    They''d both decided that a public fight between the two of them wasn''t worth the hassle, it would become too obvious, too quickly, that they weren''t really trying to kill each other.


    Justin smiled faintly, a predatory gleam in his eye. "It''s not meant to fool him for long. The Mandarin''s been avoiding electronic communication except for his little show-and-tell with you. By the time he hears a report about your ''attack'' on me, it''ll take a while before he can confirm nothing happened afterwards. That''s all the time we need."


    Helen Cho hadn''t moved for a bit now, so he was fairly certain they had their location. By the time the Mandarin heard back from the outside world, it would be too late.


    "I''m not waiting any longer," Tony said, his voice sharp. "I want this done now, you said she''s not moving, right? So check now."


    Justin''s smile grew cruel, and for the first time, Tony noticed the faint glow emanating from behind Justin''s eyes. It was subtle, but it sent a chill through him as he felt a pressure almost pushing down on him.


    "We''re not waiting," Justin replied, his tone deadly calm. "This ends today, but I suppose as a favor to you, we can move right now, although if you take that tone with me again¡­" He warned, the pressure increasing around them.


    Tony stared at him for a beat longer, feeling himself gulp as sweat poured down his face, then he nodded. "Good." His thrusters flared as he hovered again, testing all his combat systems, his suit humming with barely restrained power. "Let''s get to work then."


    He kept a wary sensor and eye on Hammer as he did, not sure what that feeling was, but not wanting to be under it again.


    Justin watched him for a moment longer, his smile lingering as he turned and strode toward the control panels and their operators.


    It was time.


    <hr>


    Ten Rings Main Base, Kunlun Mountains, China.Stolen story; please report.


    Xu Wenwu, also known as the Mandarin, the legendary immortal leader of the Ten Rings, stood with an air of unyielding authority on the stone balcony overlooking the expansive courtyard of his secluded mountain fortress.


    Pulling back to his roots had been good in many ways, it had cut away the sloth in his men, and brought him back to the ruthless conqueror he''d been before he had allowed modern conveniences to weaken him.


    The sun was high in the sky, its golden rays illuminating the disciplined chaos below. His children, Shang-Chi and Xialing, stood beside him - Shang-Chi, a boy of ten with a posture already attempting to mirror his father''s rigidity, and Xialing, a girl of six who he hoped one day would match her mother in beauty - without her foolish sentiments.


    Her death might be the only one he''d ever feel the slightest sorrow over. But her continued refusal to lead him to the dimensional space she''d hailed from - had eventually led to the only possible outcome.


    Her torture and death at his hands.


    Asia was his after all, this included any other dimension which hid within its confines. It was irritating that he''d have to wait, but Shang-chi or Xialing would one day lead him and his men through.


    Even with her refusal to cooperate, with her spitting on their marriage vows to obey her husband, he''d felt a stirring of pride at the woman he''d married. Even at the end, with his hands around her throat, she''d never once broken and detailed the way through to his goal. Truly a woman worthy of his love even in death.


    He''d never found one like her in the years after.


    In the courtyard below them, his elite warriors of the Ten Ring,  engaged in rigorous training. Pairs of combatants sparred with lethal precision, their movements a symphony of martial prowess unmatched on Earth. The metallic clang of weapons striking resonated through the crisp air. Some practiced with traditional Chinese weapons - jian swords flashing in the light, guandao blades sweeping in deadly arcs - while others demonstrated unarmed combat, their fists and feet moving in blurs, executing strikes and counterstrikes with impeccable timing.


    Wenwu''s gaze was inscrutable. He had spent centuries amassing power, his immortality granted by the mystical Ten Rings adorning his forearms. Yet, in this modern age, he understood that brute strength alone was insufficient. The world had evolved, and so had the nature of control. He''d let time pass by without paying proper attention to happenings outside of Asia, his fault, in the end.


    He''d grown too lax, and had waited too long to strike against his enemies.


    Yet, he was the Mandarin, he had the Ten Rings, he would prevail.


    His recent maneuvers against Hammer Industries had been calculated to perfection. Through covert operations, he had orchestrated moves that destabilized their supply chains, orchestrated attacks to cripple their physical and technological infrastructure, killing his people and weakening his reputation Each move was a deliberate stroke, weakening the foundation of Justin Hammer''s empire without direct confrontation with the man himself.


    The idea, to weaken the man one bite at a time, until an opening presented itself. And it had. As he''d known would happen.


    The acquisition of his trump cards brought a cold smile to Wenwu''s lips. Pepper Potts, the woman Tony Stark cherished above all else, was now his captive. And within the confines of his domain, Dr. Helen Cho, carrying the unborn child of Justin Hammer, remained under his watchful eye.


    He understood these men, and that is why he had won. Tony Stark above all else craved acceptance and love. He would do anything to not lose his wife.


    Justin Hammer worked like a man possessed, innovating and running through the economy and business world like a raging bull in a fine china shop. No man worked so frantically for no reason. Wenwu had found the reason.


    Legacy.


    Justin Hammer wanted to be remembered as the most powerful man in Earth''s history, and leave a monument behind for his line.


    His child would be the most important thing for such a man.


    He didn''t care whether Hammer killed Stark, or Stark killed Hammer, or even if both survived. It would simply be proof over the men of the kind of pull he has over them.


    He doubted that particular ploy would even work against Stark anyway, but it amused him to cause more emotional turmoil amongst his enemies.


    It would make them easier to handle once they inevitably were forced into his temporary service.


    Of course, Hammer would have to die eventually, but he could use his legacy for some¡­ Benefits for his own goals, before he allowed the man to finally die.


    He glanced at his son, Shang-Chi, whose eyes were fixed on the warriors below, absorbing every detail of their combat. "Strength is not merely a matter of muscle and skill," Wenwu intoned, his voice resonant with the weight of experience. "True power lies in understanding the weaknesses of your adversaries and exploiting them to your advantage."


    Shang-Chi would study the downfall of Justin Hammer one day, and understand his father''s words, Wenwu hoped.


    Xialing, standing on the other side of her father, looked up, her expression a blend of curiosity and determination. "Is that why you have taken these people, Father? To use them against their loved ones?"


    Bright, even for one so young. If only she''d been born a male¡­


    Wenwu''s gaze softened marginally anyway as he regarded his daughter, his reminder of his beloved. "Every man harbors a weakness," He explained. "For Tony Stark, it is the woman he loves. For Justin Hammer, it is his desperate desire to leave a legacy through his child. By holding what they value most, I command their actions without lifting a sword."


    Below, a particularly fierce bout drew their attention. Two senior warriors engaged in a display of acrobatic combat, their movements fluid yet forceful. One executed a soaring leap, twisting mid-air to deliver a kick that his opponent narrowly deflected, countering with a rapid series of palm strikes that drove the attacker back.


    "Observe them," Wenwu instructed his children. "Their bodies are weapons, honed to perfection. Yet, even the sharpest blade is useless if the mind wielding it is clouded. Control the mind, and the body will follow."


    Shang-Chi nodded solemnly, absorbing his father''s teachings. Xialing, though silent, clenched her small fists, her resolve hardening.


    Wenwu continued, his tone contemplative. "I have spent lifetimes conquering nations, toppling governments, bending the will of countless men. Yet, it is through understanding and manipulating the desires and fears of others that I have achieved true dominance."


    He turned to his children, his expression one of stern expectation. "You are my heirs. One day, the weight of this empire will rest upon your shoulders. Remember, brute force is a tool, but intellect and strategy are the keys to ruling the world."


    They needed ambition¡­ Even if he would never let go of the reins of his empire, they could still be of use, perhaps his son could create his own outside of Asia?


    As the training session in the courtyard reached its zenith, the warriors moved in perfect synchrony, a choreographed dance of death and discipline. The sight was both beautiful and terrifying - a manifestation of Wenwu''s relentless pursuit of perfection.


    It was why he was the greatest mind on Earth after all, because he sought perfection in all things.


    "With Stark and Hammer under my control," Wenwu declared, his voice tinged with satisfaction, "I hold the strings that make the most powerful men in the world dance to my tune. This, my children, makes me the most powerful man on this earth."


    The sun climbed higher, casting its light upon the fortress - a bastion of power built over centuries, now poised to shape the future under the unyielding will of Xu Wenwu and the legacy he was forging through his progeny.


    Hammer sought to build his own legacy?


    Perhaps Wenwu would let his son use the scraps of Hammer''s business empire to rise up and craft his own as a test.


    Yes¡­


    That would be a worthy test of his heir.


    <hr>


    HammerOne, Space station.


    Tony and Justin stood side by side in the control center of the space station, tension radiating off them like heat waves. Monitors displayed fragmented images of the Mandarin''s hidden compound deep in the mountains of China. The air buzzed with anticipation as they waited for their Black Widow operative to report back.


    Nearby, Hela sprawled lazily across an improbable pile of plush pillows. Where she had procured them - or why she even needed them - was anyone''s guess. She looked more like a languid predator lounging after a feast than a goddess of death waiting for battle. A black, shimmering necrosword twirled in her fingers with unnerving ease, catching the light of the room.


    "Can I kill them yet?" Hela''s voice broke through the silence, low and dangerously bored. Her eyes gleamed with sharp impatience and bloodlust.


    Justin didn''t even look up from the monitors. "Soon," He replied flatly, his tone clipped. His focus remained locked on the Widow''s progress, one screen showing nothing but a blinking dot on a GPS screen, showcasing the hidden operative moving through the Mandarins base.


    Tony shot Hela a wary glance, the frown on his face deepening. He leaned slightly toward Justin and muttered out of the corner of his mouth, "Are you sure she''s stable? Because I''m not convinced."


    Justin smirked faintly, eyes still glued to the monitor. "She''s definitely not."


    Tony scoffed, throwing his hands up as he began to pace again. "And you''re going to send her where Pepper is? Really? That''s your plan?"


    Justin finally turned to look at him, raising an eyebrow. "No, I''m going to send her down to kill everything else once Pepper is safe. I know what I''m doing, Tony, man up a little." He criticized him, his own focus on the final end of the Mandarin, not really caring too much about Tony''s feelings right now.


    Pepper would be fine, as would Helen, Tony needed to learn to trust that Justin knew what he was doing.


    Tony paused mid-step, as he weighed the response. After a beat, he nodded reluctantly. "Alright then, it''s decided. You''re a dick."


    Justin scoffed, "Choke on it, Tony."


    Domino sniggered in the corner, "Boss, you''re not helping the rumours." She pointed out mirthfully.


    "This waiting is stressing me out, when are we going!?" Tony growled, stomping forward until he was right by the monitors.


    "When the boss says so, learn your place." Yelena snapped, having grown more and more annoyed the more Tony complained.


    "If you''re about to say my place is underneath him, I''m going to hurl." Tony said matter of factly.


    "Hot." Domino said with a shit eating grin.


    Justin didn''t even look at her as he pointed at her, "One more word out of you, and I''ll make you Hela''s sparring partner."


    Hela smirked where she lounged, giving Domino a lustful look, Domino rearing back slightly, miming zipping her lips.


    Tony gave them both a long considering look, "Hot." He muttered, before smirking at Justin, showing he did it only to continue to mess with him.


    At this point he almost wanted to hit the Mandarin early just to get the man off his space station.


    The room fell silent again afterwards, except for the faint hum of electronics and Tony''s impatient pacing. Every few moments, his eyes darted toward the monitors, scanning for any sign of Pepper. He didn''t like waiting. He hated waiting.


    "Is she there yet?" Tony asked sharply, his voice tight with barely contained frustration.


    Justin closed his eyes briefly as if summoning patience. "Tony... Don''t make me send you for a timeout."


    "Am I five?" Tony shot back, his sarcasm masking his worry. "Just give me something. Anything."


    Justin didn''t bother answering. Instead, with a flick of his fingers, he opened a small orange portal that showcased the "Welcome to Malibu" sign. "I don''t need you to rescue them." He reminded him coldly.


    Tony''s jaw clenched. "Unfair, bullshit magic," He muttered, scowling.


    Justin allowed himself a faint smirk. He had enjoyed proving magic''s existence to Tony - just enough to remind him who was in charge here. For all of Tony''s brilliance, his stubbornness made these moments of clear superiority all the sweeter.


    It had taken a copious amount of proof to get the man to admit magic was maybe, perhaps, a tiny bit real.


    But it had shut him up.


    For a few minutes.


    "Sir," A Black Widow operative at the controls reported, breaking the tension. "The Widow reports eyes on Miss Potts. Two guards with her."


    Justin''s head snapped up, his expression sharpening into something cold and predatory. "Hela. Tony. We''re ready." Power wafted over him as his heart beat faster in anticipation. "Let''s break them."


    Tony''s armor whined softly as it activated fully, his helmet snapping into place. Hela sat up straight, a grin stretching across her face, as her necrosword solidified into something even darker, jagged, and lethal. She looked positively giddy at the opportunity to participate in a slaughter with no restrictions.


    Justin focused, his eyes narrowing as he honed in on the location of Helen Cho and his operative who was right outside Pepper Potts location.


    Time to get rid of the Mandarins pathetic attempts to fuck around.


    ¡­


    Helen Cho''s Cell.


    Helen Cho sat alone in the sterile confines of her tiny cell. It was dark, cold, and bare, save for the flickering glow of the lights overhead.


    She hadn''t been fed yet, and neither did the cell have access to any way of relieving herself.


    Yet, Helen didn''t despair. She didn''t cry. She didn''t rage at her captors. No, she sat with perfect calm, her hands resting over her stomach protectively as she whispered under her breath.


    "He''s coming."


    Her voice was quiet but full of unwavering faith. Her mind turned to Justin Hammer - the God she revered, the God whose vision had changed the world. Others called her loyalty fanaticism, but Helen knew better. She believed in him with all her being because it was right. She knew he wouldn''t let her rot here. He would come for her. He would save her.


    Her God was a vengeful one.


    He would ensure the non-believers would pay for their heretical behavior.


    Maya would be brought back, or at the very least if that wasn''t an option for her, forever be with her God in the afterlife. She did not mourn her, being with her God forevermore wasn''t sad.


    It was a gift.


    Helen''s lips curved into a small smile. She tilted her head upward, closing her eyes as if offering a prayer, almost feeling his touch. "Glory to Hammer," She whispered, giggling softly.


    Then it happened.


    The ground beneath her feet glowed orange, and in the blink of an eye, the floor disappeared as the portal came into being underneath her. Helen let out a sharp breath as she fell through the portal, her body weightless for a split second before solid ground caught her gently on the other side.


    She landed in a well-lit, pristine room aboard the Hammer space station. Her giggles turned into laughter as she straightened herself, looking around with eyes full of wonder. "I knew you would come," She whispered to herself, tears of joy glistening in her eyes.


    As Yelena popped in to check on her, her smile turned teasing, she couldn''t wait to tell her fellow worshiper that she was the first to carry his seed to completion.


    She wouldn''t tease her too much, she''d need her on her side when it came time to name the child growing within. She loved her God¡­


    But he could not be allowed to name the child.


    Ever.


    Back in the compound, her empty cell erupted into flame as a failsafe immolated the space she had occupied moments before. The Ten Rings operative monitoring the cell paled visibly, frozen for a moment before sending a runner to the Mandarin. How they had failed, he didn''t know - but he knew that survival now was unlikely.


    The Mandarin wouldn''t accept their failure.


    ¡­


    Pepper Potts'' Cell.


    Pepper sat against the far wall of her cell, her arms wrapped tightly around her knees. The room was sparse, its walls an unyielding gray, broken only by the faint glow of the dim bulb overhead. The air was stale, thick with hopelessness, and every creak of the door or distant footstep sent her heart hammering in her chest.


    She knew what happened to women in captivity. Every footstep could be the Mandarin coming to¡­


    She forced the thought away, biting her lip hard enough to draw blood.


    Her mind was caught in a loop of fear, not only for herself, her thoughts also fearing for Tony, and what he could end up finding in the end, knowing he''d break if the worst came to pass.


    Tony would come. He had to¡­ She repeated the thought like a mantra, clinging to the belief that he would never let her down. He wouldn''t fail her. Not after everything they had been through. Not now.


    Still, the fear lingered. She had seen what the Mandarin''s men were capable of - heard their cruelty in the sounds of far-off screams. What if¡­ What if this time Tony didn''t make it in time? What if -


    Her thoughts came to an abrupt halt as an unnatural hum filled the room, her guards both drawing their weapons in shock.


    Pepper looked down just as the floor beneath her glowed with swirling orange light. Her breath caught in her throat, and before she could comprehend what was happening, the floor vanished. She fell through the portal, her two guards tumbling with her, shouts of surprise echoing as they hit solid ground in a new space.


    The shock barely registered before two figures descended upon the guards like lightning. Black Widows. One moved with the precision of a predator, taking a guard down with a chokehold so swift he didn''t even get a chance to do more than cry out. The second Widow dispatched the other with two quick strikes with a blade, leaving him bleeding out on the floor.


    Pepper scrambled back, her chest heaving as she tried to process what was happening. Her wide eyes flicked to the sound of clanking metal - and there he was.


    Iron Man dropped down to a knee next to her, his armor gleaming in the bright light of the room, his glowing arc reactor casting faint blue light over her stunned face.


    "Pepper!" Tony''s voice rang through the suit''s speakers, full of urgency.


    "Tony¡­" She whispered, relief flooding her chest. Her legs felt weak as she tried to stand.


    Before she could move, laughter - sharp and chilling - cut through the moment. Hela leapt through her own portal, her dark hair whipping behind her as she landed on the other side with feral grace. A jagged grin stretched across her face.


    Screams of pain and terror erupting, blood splashing through the portal, before it closed.


    She then noticed Justin Hammer, brimming with an aura of power that was visible to the naked eye, a cruel look on his face as he laughed, stepping through his own portal. He looked strong, in control, but his eyes burned with something else. Something Pepper couldn''t quite name. Hate, maybe?


    It felt too weak of a word.


    For a moment, her relief turned to unease. Tony was here, but the cold, merciless look on Justin Hammer''s face sent a shiver through her that she couldn''t explain. It was a look she had never seen before - cruel, predatory, and other.


    He stared at her like a man ready to end everything in his path, like he wasn''t even human anymore, the portal closing behind him.


    Even as one opened near Tony, making Pepper more afraid then she''d been in her cell.


    No¡­ Don''t go¡­


    "Tony," She whispered, this time with a tremor of fear in her voice. "What''s¡­ What''s happening?"


    Tony turned to her, his voice softening. "It''s okay, Pep. You''re safe now." He rose up, facing the portal, "Just got to do a thing, it will all be okay."


    But as she looked between him, and where Hela and Hammer had been - she wasn''t so sure she believed that.


    By the time her throat worked properly again, Tony was gone, through his own portal.


    Don''t¡­ Don''t look at me with eyes like theirs¡­ She begged, hoping Tony would come back to her.


    Still human.


    <hr>


    The Mandarins Base.


    Hela landed with predatory grace in the center of the vast stone courtyard, the sound of her armored boots clicking against the tiles loud enough to pierce the sudden tense quiet.


    Hundreds of Ten Rings operatives had frozen mid-movement as she''d slaughtered those closest to her immediately, their weapons drawn or their fists clenched from their interrupted training exercises. Rows of fighters lined the edges of the space, caught off guard by the sudden arrival of the woman who exuded an overwhelming aura of power.


    The Goddess of Death, clad in her obsidian coloured armor, tilted her head slightly as she surveyed her audience. A slow, wicked smirk spread across her lips, the corners curling with mirth that was as cruel as it was gleeful. She twirled the necroswords lazily in her hands - jagged black blades that shimmered faintly with otherworldly energy, the edges whispering promises of carnage. Her piercing eyes gleamed like an emerald storm as she regarded the army before her.


    "Hello, boys," Hela purred, her voice dripping with mock affection. "Please, all of you, make this good for me, I haven''t had a proper bloodbath in awhile, my skin is going to dry up at this rate without that nice¡­ Hot, tasty, blood!"


    The operatives exchanged wary glances, and the hesitation was noticeable. These were hardened warriors, killers loyal to the Mandarin''s cause, men who had been honed into living weapons through relentless training. But Hela was not something they could prepare for - her presence alone seemed to sap the confidence from the air. The very shadows at her feet rippled as though bowing to her will.


    One of the men, a senior operative with twin blades strapped to his back, snarled in defiance and surged forward. Hela''s eyes flicked to him as if she were merely noting the time, and in one smooth motion, she flicked her wrist.


    A necrosword shot through the air like an arrow, impossibly fast and precise. The man''s charge was stopped dead as the weapon buried itself in his chest, piercing his heart. He stumbled back, his face confused and shocked, as he slowly sunk to the ground, blood leaking from between his lips.


    Laughter echoed from Hela''s lips, rich and delighted, as she used the sword in her hand to behead the man, grasping the head by its hair, and giving it a chiding look, before tossing it behind her and looking back at the rest of them.


    "No, no," She chided them all, wagging a single black-gloved finger at them. "I said everyone plays."


    Her words were punctuated by another motion of her hand. Like a violent gust of wind, black swords erupted from the ground in a line, striking a dozen men and scattering their formations like toy soldiers. Some dove aside, narrowly avoiding the projectiles, while others were run through, many dying, others simply impaled through their feet or legs.


    That was the spark.


    The Ten Rings operatives erupted into motion, shouting battle cries as they rushed her en masse just like she wanted. The courtyard filled with the sound of clashing steel, shouts of anger, and the stampede of boots pounding against the stone. The air thickened with energy as dozens of men charged the goddess from all sides, weapons flashing in arcs meant to cut her down.


    But Hela was no mortal opponent.


    She moved like water, fluid and untouchable. Her first step forward was as graceful as a dancer''s, her necroswords swirling into her hands as though they were extensions of her body. Two men leapt at her, their fists reinforced with iron gauntlets, swinging hard. Hela tilted her head as she stepped between their strikes, the blades in her hands singing through the air as she countered. One operative''s torso was cut in half in a single strike, sending him sprawling in two directions, while the others head went flying, Hela giggling even as an operative managed to stab her in the back.


    An explosion rang out, as the fortress weapons depot blew up, throwing people off their feet, a figure could be seen blasting across the sky, firing at the few anti-air units they held, and blowing large chunks off the fortress, their helicopters ended in a barrage of repulsor blasts before anyone could even think of escaping.


    Pivoting on her heel, Hela''s blades spun with a speed that blurred their form. She cut through a spear thrust like paper, closing the distance between her and its wielder in the blink of an eye. The warrior barely had time to process his failure before she backhanded him with enough force to send him skidding across the tiles, his neck twisted the wrong way.


    "Is that all?" She teased them, even as she took several cuts to her torso which only seemed to make her amused, her voice lilting with mocking disappointment. "Come on, fight!"


    Around her, the courtyard descended into madness. Ten Rings operatives scrambled to form ranks, shouting orders as their confidence began to waver. Hela''s laughter rang above the din, echoing off the stone walls like a dark anthem.


    From his vantage point above, Xu Wenwu watched the slaughter unfold with a scowl carved deep into his features. Pieces of broken railing crumbled to dust in his clenched fists as the weight of their predicament became clear. Hela was a force of nature, a living weapon born of chaos. But how had they been found? The compound was secure - shielded from the outside world, devoid of electronics or signals.


    The women had been searched extremely thoroughly, they had no devices or hidden trackers. So how had Hammer done it?


    Everything had gone so wrong, so quickly¡­


    Stark was here as well¡­ He''d never really believed the man would kill Hammer, but to completely lose his senses in an all out attack like this?


    The women must have been saved, he thought darkly.


    It didn''t matter now. He had to act.


    "Take them!" He barked, his voice booming as he gestured sharply to a nearby soldier, pointing at his children - Shang-Chi and Xialing - who stood frozen, their wide eyes fixed on the battlefield below, Shang-Chi letting out a cry as a bloody limb flew right past his face, making him flinch back.


    Wenwu stared at him in disappointment, the boy flushing and casting his eyes downwards, realizing his failure in showcasing strength.


    The soldier hesitated for only a moment before moving toward the children. The motion was cut short in an instant.


    A necrosword, hurled with lethal precision, shot across the courtyard and impaled the man straight through his chest, sending him sprawling with a gasp, feeble hands reaching for the sword for a moment, before all movement ceased.


    Hela, from across the yard, wagged her finger with a smirk. "No, no, I said everyone plays, don''t cheat the game Citrus¡­ Orange, or whatever it was, some sort of fruit." She shrugged casually, slicing two men apart in the same motion.


    Wenwu''s teeth ground audibly, rage simmering beneath his calm veneer. His children - his legacy - were now his only priority. He knelt before them, placing a strong hand on each of their shoulders as the sounds of chaos roared behind him.


    "You need to hide," He said firmly, his gaze locking onto theirs. "Find one of the tunnels. Get out. Remember who you are. Remember your legacy. You are my children, avenge me."


    "Father, but you? Where are you going?" Shang-Chi asked, his voice tinged with both confusion and fear. Xialing only watching, trying to hold back tears.


    Wenwu''s face hardened. "To my destiny."


    He had gambled, and he''d lost. He was not a coward, he would face the barbarians at his gates, and let his children run, to pick up his cause and avenge him one day.


    Without another word, he raised his arms. The Ten Rings - glowing bands of power - uncoiled from his forearms and spiraled through the air, shrinking as they wrapped around Shang-Chi''s wrists, fitting perfectly as though they had always belonged there.


    Shang-Chi looked up in shock, but Wenwu stood and turned sharply, his back to them. "Go!" He roared, his voice thunderous as he stared out into the courtyard, at the demon massacring his men.


    The children hesitated only for a moment before obeying, running for the nearest archway as instructed.


    But their escape was halted far too soon.


    From the shadows of the passage emerged Justin Hammer, his grip locked tightly around each of their arms. The two children struggled, trying to break free, but Hammer''s face remained impassive - his expression darker than Wenwu had ever seen it.


    Wenwu''s heart froze in his chest as he turned fully, his fists clenching at the sight of his captured children. "You fiend!" He roared, his voice like the rage of the heavens themselves. "Unhand them you coward!"


    For a moment, Hammer''s hands tightened, his children crying out in pain, and he feared he would see them die, crushed in the barbarians grip, but then he seemed to think otherwise, glaring at Wenwu.


    Hammer sneered, his eyes glowing faintly with an eerie violet light that sent a chill down Wenwu''s spine. "Recall the rings," Justin said coldly, his voice measured and calm. "Fight me. All out. Now. And I''ll let the brats go. I couldn''t care less about your spawn."


    Wenwu''s gaze burned with hatred as he raised a trembling hand, snapping his fingers. The rings flew from Shang-Chi''s arms, glowing brighter as they returned to Wenwu, spinning around him like orbiting planets.


    Justin released the children unceremoniously, his voice dismissive. "Run along now," He muttered, his tone dripping with indifference. "Find the man in iron. He''ll let you live. The woman¡­" He smirked. "She will not."


    The children hesitated for only a breath before fleeing away from the battlefield, their figures already forgotten as Wenwu advanced.


    The two men stood facing each other, the ground trembling faintly as their combined power crackled in the air. Wenwu''s rings whirled around him in a cyclone of light, while Justin emanated a violet energy that seemed to warp the very space around him.


    "You will die here, monster," Wenwu growled, his voice low and deadly as he began to pace, the rings surging in anticipation.


    Justin smirked, rolling his shoulders as a pulse of energy flared across his form. "Monster?" He said, cocking his head, a savage grin coming to his face.


    "You''re goddamn right!"


    £ª£ª£ª


    The courtyard stood still for a heartbeat, as though the world itself held its breath. The remnants of Hela''s rampage still echoed through the mountain compound - the fallen bodies, the shattered stone, and the smoke rising from the fires caused by Iron Man''s rampage. But now, all eyes turned to two figures facing each other - a duel that would decide the fate of the Mandarin.


    Hela busied herself with dragging corpses into a pile, so she could lounge in the best seat in the house. Uncaring that a few Ten Rings operatives were still alive at the moment.


    She could kill them after the show.


    Xu Wenwu, his face carved with furious resolve, stood tall. The glowing rings which were no longer on his arms, pulsed with an ominous light, spinning around him like celestial bodies. Each ring hummed with power - energy older than memory, capable of reshaping reality with his every thought. .


    They orbited him faster now, leaving arcs of crackling energy in their wake. His gaze burned with wrath as he watched the man who had caused all of this, the one responsible for his impending ruin.


    Justin Hammer.


    Justin stood opposite him, perfectly composed, as if this were nothing more than a pleasant afternoon stroll. His tailored suit remained crisp, untouched by the chaos swirling around him. He looked at Wenwu as one might regard a cockroach, his expression a mixture of disgust, hate, and condescension. And yet, there was also something else - a glimmer in his eyes that hinted at something dark, something vast. The violet glow emanating faintly from him made the air heavy, warping reality at the edges.


    "Are you ready to end this little charade?" Justin drawled, cracking his neck casually. His voice carried a cruel edge, deliberate and cutting. "All that bravado you had in challenging me, those toys on your arms. Let''s see if you''re half as impressive as the legends say."


    Wenwu''s fists clenched, the Ten Rings flaring brighter, and the ground trembled beneath him. "You mock what you do not understand," He growled. With a sharp motion of his hand, the rings shot forward, spinning like bladed projectiles that screamed through the air, wreathed in electric blue energy.


    Justin didn''t move.


    At the last possible moment, the rings split into ten distinct beams of force. They struck like cannon fire, the impact blasting apart the stone courtyard in a storm of debris. A cloud of dust engulfed the battlefield, shrouding Justin from view as the pathway around him disintegrated.


    Wenwu straightened, his chest rising and falling with controlled breaths. The sheer force of his attack left fissures spiderwebbing through the ground around the area that had been completely eradicated, stones shattered into so much dust. For a moment, he allowed himself to believe the man had been obliterated.


    Then Justin''s voice cut through the smoke like a whip.


    "Oh, that''s cute. You thought that''d work." He mocked.


    The dust began to clear, revealing Justin standing exactly where he had been, utterly untouched. A faint shimmer of violet energy rippled in the air around him like an imperceptible shield. His smirk widened as he dusted his suit jacket off with exaggerated care. "I''ve seen fireworks displays with more punch."


    He smirked coldly, eyes flashing with hate, "If you''re not going to at least be interesting, maybe I shouldn''t even bother with you, myself?"


    Wenwu''s eyes narrowed, rage bubbling to the surface. With a furious roar, he launched himself forward. The Ten Rings coiled and spun, shaping into whips of pure energy that lashed out, their glow blinding as they tore through the air. The rings struck with the force of a hurricane, ripping apart the ground in arcs of devastation.


    Half of them acted independently of his body, as the others coiled around his right arm, allowing him to slash with greater focus and different energies.


    Justin moved leisurely through it all.


    He sidestepped a whip of energy that shattered the wall behind him, his form blurring slightly with unnatural speed. A second whip struck where his chest had been a fraction of a second earlier, only for Justin to glide smoothly out of range, his movements like a man dancing through raindrops without getting wet.


    The Mandarin tried several different avenues, he made the gravity over the area a thousand times higher, he doused the area in darkness as disintegration beams and flashes of his rings whipped forward to eradicate him, yet¡­


    Justin moved through gravity being enhanced to a level that would crush a human to paste, like it was a Sunday stroll, and casually slapped his rings away whenever a whip of energy would get too close, the disintegration beam was foiled by the almost invisible violet shield around him, the darkness never getting to settle, as it was crushed in a violet storm of energy.


    "You call this power?" Justin taunted, his voice perfectly clear amid the destruction. "No wonder you''ve been skulking around in the mountains for centuries. You''re all show, no substance."


    Wenwu snarled in fury, the rings obeying his gestures as they formed into a massive sphere of swirling blue energy. With a shout, he hurled it at Justin like a meteor, the force enough to obliterate a small fortress.


    Justin''s smile turned wicked. He raised his hand lazily, and the violet energy that had been rippling faintly around him exploded outward in a pulse. The sphere struck the barrier, but instead of an impact, the energy unraveled. Wenwu watched in shock as his attack disintegrated, stripped apart piece by piece as though the power within the rings were being swallowed.


    "What¡­ What are you?" Wenwu hissed, his composure cracking. Desperately he sent the rings around him, illusions crafted all around, as thousands of beams shot forward, the real ones hidden behind the many illusionary Wenwu''s, one ring sliding over Hammer, trying to breach into his mind - only to flail uselessly above him.


    Justin stepped forward, his pace unhurried, his eyes glowing faintly with that unnerving violet light. The very air around him seemed to bend, reality warping slightly with every step as the beams didn''t even touch him. "Oh, come now, Wenwu. Surely you''ve figured it out by now?"


    Wenwu raised his hands again, desperation flashing in his eyes as the rings obeyed his will. They split apart and began circling him, spinning faster and faster until they became blurs of light. Energy pulsed outward in waves as Wenwu drew upon their full power, his face lined with effort and resolve.


    "This is the might of the Ten Rings!" He roared, as he let loose all of their abilities at the same time.


    The ground cracked, tremors shaking the entire compound. The rings shot toward Justin again, this time in perfect unison, a wall of pure destructive force that no man could possibly withstand. Flames roiling and burning hotter than hell, Ice colder than any glacier, illusions to distract him, beams of pure energy, gravity ripping apart around him, as the very stones in the area were ripped into the air by the Ten Rings and followed in their wake to crash against the threat.


    Justin merely chuckled.


    He raised his hand, and with a subtle flick of his fingers, the violet light around him intensified. It was not an explosion of power, nor a grand display - it was casual, effortless. The energy surrounding Justin expanded outward in an invisible wave. When the rings struck it, they wavered, all that power - just not enough.


    It wasn''t a match.


    Wenwu''s eyes widened as his greatest weapons - artifacts of untold power - hovered motionless before Justin Hammer, their power not as much as scratching the man.


    "You''ve relied on these little toys for so long," Justin said, his voice low and cutting, "That you''ve forgotten what true power looks like, a man from your era¡­ Should know not to meddle with a God!"


    He gestured, and with a sharp snap, the rings were sent flying back toward Wenwu shining with a color not his own. The Mandarin barely had time to raise his arms before the force struck him like a sledgehammer. He was launched backward, crashing into the stone steps at the far end of the courtyard with a sickening thud. Dust and debris rained down as Wenwu struggled to his knees, coughing blood, his body wracked with pain.


    The rings, still hovering, slowly floated back toward Justin. He tilted his head as they orbited around him now, shifting color - faint streaks of violet bleeding into their previously blue glow. He held out his hand, and two of the rings slipped onto his arm, resizing to fit as though they belonged there.


    Wenwu stared, wide-eyed. "No¡­ That''s impossible¡­"


    "Cute, but not for me I think." Justin said, the others hovering above him like a mockery of a crown. "Too weak." He mocked.


    Justin stepped closer, the faint hum of the rings blending with the pulsing energy around him. "You thought you could win with leverage. With hostages. With bluster." He crouched down slightly, his gaze locking onto Wenwu with cold, predatory focus. "But you underestimated me, old man. You thought I was weak because I don''t flex my power on worms, that you could force me to kneel, to cower... I''m not weak."


    He straightened, and the courtyard felt impossibly small as his aura expanded. "I''m Power Eternal!"


    All across the fortress, the surviving Ten Rings members fell to the ground, foreheads pressed to the floor as the aura pressed down on them, crushing them.


    Wenwu, panting, forced himself to stand. The remaining rings still circled over his enemy, though they flickered now, their glow diminished. "This isn''t over," He growled, putting his fists up.


    Justin''s smirk returned, sharp and cruel. "Oh, it''s over."


    Before Wenwu could react, Justin raised his hand. The two rings he now controlled on his arm, shot forward like bullets, slamming into Wenwu''s chest and sending him sprawling once more. The Mandarin hit the ground hard, his strength failing him as the last of his strength sputtered out. He lay motionless, defeated.


    Justin approached slowly, standing over his fallen opponent. "You made the mistake of every pathetic weakling anywhere," He said softly, his voice devoid of mockery now, only cruel vindictive joy in his tone. "You thought you mattered."


    The courtyard was silent now. The chaos had stopped. Hela squirmed where she sat, on a pile of corpses, looking absolutely entranced, one hand moving down her body.


    Justin sighed, flexing his fingers as the rings hummed faintly. "How anticlimactic in the end, I had built this up too much in my head" He muttered to himself.


    He glared down at Wenwu, spitting on him, "I had expected¡­ More."


    Wenwu groaned faintly, trying to lift his head, but Justin crouched down and pressed a hand to his chest, forcing him back down with no effort at all.


    "Rest easy, weakling," Justin whispered, his voice cold. "Your immortality is not at an end."


    "A century of pain awaits."


    "What do you want me to do with the two brats?" Tony asked, flying into the courtyard holding the two kids he''d collected, interrupting him.


    Justin sighed, and casually backhanded the Mandarin into unconsciousness, turning to face the man. "Read the mood, Tony."


    "No, seriously, what am I doing with the kids? I don''t do kids¡­"


    "If you don''t want them, give them to Hela." Justin said uncaringly, picking the Mandarin up by a foot and dragging him along.


    Tony looked towards Hela, who had one hand down her pants as she lounged on her corpse throne and watched Justin intently, Tony lost for words for once, as he didn''t know where to begin with everything that was wrong with that picture.


    There''s two kids right here, woman!


    "Justin¡­ C''mon man!"


    Even Tony wasn''t that irresponsible. He doubted anyone was irresponsible enough to give as much as a pet dog to that woman.


    Justin created a portal, walking through, dragging the Mandarin behind him, a laughing Hela finding herself, and her corpse pile, falling through another one, disappearing from China.


    Leaving Tony alone in the courtyard, with Shang-Chi and Xialing.


    "... So¡­ Do either of you two speak English?"


    <hr>

 Murder, Babies and Catgirls.

    <hr>


    Malibu, the day after the Mandarins defeat.


    Tony sat in one of the comfortable couches in his Malibu home, staring down at his hands like they might somehow offer him an escape from this conversation. The ocean view behind him, usually calming, now felt like a mockery of serenity as the tension in the air built to a breaking point. Across from him, Pepper  leaned back in her chair, her sharp blue eyes fixed on him. Her arms were crossed, the faint creases in her forehead deepening with every second Tony hesitated.


    They''d spent most of the night ''comforting'' each other, Tony happy she was back safe, and Pepper even happier to have been saved.


    Roleplay might have been involved at times.


    But now it was time to face the music.


    "Well?" Pepper prompted, her tone more curious than accusatory - for now.


    Tony shifted uncomfortably, his fingers tapping a restless rhythm against the table in front of him. "So¡­ I may have sort of¡­ Inadvertently, mind you¡­ Picked up a couple of strays." He winced even as the words left his mouth, already bracing for impact.


    Pepper wasn''t thrilled with his collaboration with Hammer for one, but picking up the kids of the guy who''d kidnapped her¡­


    Tony wasn''t expecting good things.


    But the other choice was leaving them to Hammer. Or foster care, which with how Hammer basically ran everything now, meant leaving them to Hammer. And Tony might not be a saint.


    But he wasn''t that guy.


    Pepper arched a single eyebrow, a talent she had perfected over the years of dealing with Tony''s antics. "Strays," She repeated, her voice carefully measured. "What kind of strays, Tony? And don''t tell me aliens. Please."


    "No, no, not aliens," Tony said quickly, holding up his hands as if to ward off further assumptions. "They''re, uh¡­ Kids. Child sized kids. Totally human. No tentacles, no glowing eyes, no -"


    "Tony."


    Her voice cut through his babbling like a razor, and he straightened instinctively, the nervous grin slipping from his face. "Right, okay. Fine. Here''s the thing. I''ve sort of¡­ Inherited the Mandarin''s kids. You know? Big bad with the magical bling?"


    Pepper blinked, her expression frozen in disbelief. "You inherited¡­ The Mandarin''s kids?"


    The flush in her cheeks told him that he better make with the explaining, rapidly.


    "Technically rescued them," Tony clarified, gesturing vaguely as if that made it better. "They''re great, really. Very polite. Super skilled. One of them''s probably already better at kung fu than Bruce Lee ever was, and the other one could probably run Stark Industries better than I do, at like six. So¡­ Bonus points there?"


    Granted, he''d tended to not run SI as much as play around while Obie and Pepper ran it¡­ But she was frightfully smart for a kid.


    Pepper continued to stare at him, her expression unmoving. Finally, she let out a slow breath, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Start from the beginning, Tony."


    "Right," Tony muttered, shifting in his seat again. He leaned forward, clasping his hands together as he began. "So, Justin and I were dealing with the Mandarin and his forces - long story, big fight, lots of explosions, typical Tuesday - and it turns out the guy has two kids. Shang-Chi and Xialing. Great kids, really. Except, you know, their dad was kind of a murderous megalomaniac and Hammer and Hela didn''t strike me as particularly merciful..."


    Pepper tilted her head slightly. "And now they''re¡­ Ours?"


    Tony hesitated. "Well, technically mine, because Justin didn''t want them - ours if you agree really. But come on, Pep. The other option was letting Hammer take them, and that''s just not¡­ I wasn''t willing to let that happen."


    Pepper''s lips pressed into a thin line, but she could see in her expression that she understood his point. "So your solution was to¡­ Adopt them?" Her tone grew slightly chillier as she continued, "Without saying a word to me until the morning after?"


    "Better than the alternative," Tony said, shrugging helplessly. "And look, it''s not like I planned this. It just¡­ Happened. But they''re good kids, and they need someone who isn''t, you know, insane."


    Pepper leaned back on the couch, her arms still crossed as she sighed looking weary. "Tony, we already have a lot on our plate. The company, the space program, dealing with the whole world domination thing -"


    "World domination? Whoa, whoa, whoa," Tony interrupted, holding up a hand. "Let''s not throw words like that around. It''s not domination. It''s more like¡­ World stabilization."


    Whatever disagreements he and Hammer had, they were beyond the point where anything could be done. Besides, what had democracy ever done for Tony anyway?


    "Right," Pepper said, her tone dripping with skepticism. "And you''re just going along with it?"


    Tony ran a hand through his hair, his expression growing serious. "Pep, listen. I know how it sounds, but this is actually the best option. Hammer''s got the resources, the tech, the connections. He''s cleaning up messes faster than anyone else could. Sure, he''s a bit¡­ Intense now, but he gets results."


    "Intense?" Pepper repeated, her voice rising slightly. "Tony, the man is consolidating power on a global scale. You really think that''s a good idea?"


    Tony sighed, leaning back and letting his head rest against the couch. "Look, I get it. He''s not exactly a poster boy for trustworthiness. But he''s making real changes, Pep. Energy, healthcare, defense, we''ve been invaded by Aliens twice. We need him."


    He knew she disliked him, but he''d honestly figured she''d be more upset over suddenly being a mother then this¡­


    "And at what cost?" Pepper asked sharply. "What happens when he decides he doesn''t need to answer to anyone anymore? Or when his idea of ''good'' doesn''t line up with ours?"


    Tony hesitated, his brow furrowing. "I''m not saying it''s perfect. But we''ve seen what happens when nobody steps up. Chaos. Destruction. Hammer''s keeping that from happening."


    He''d seen the evidence of the Sentinels while he''d been waiting to raid the Mandarin, and it had cleared up any hesitation in him.


    Without Hammer, they might not have had a planet to worry about in the coming years.


    So Tony would bite the bullet, and accept the new world order.


    Also for the practical reason of being intelligent enough to realize those who didn''t, wouldn''t last long.


    Pepper''s gaze softened slightly, though her expression remained tense. "Tony, you''re one of the smartest people on the planet. You know better than anyone that absolute power corrupts absolutely. What makes you so sure Hammer won''t cross that line?"


    "Because I''ll be there," Tony said firmly. "If he steps out of line, I''ll stop him. We''ve got some checks and balances, Pep, not all of his people are bad. And honestly, he''s not as bad as you think. Arrogant? Sure. But he''s not some cartoon villain twirling his mustache."


    Pepper let out a quiet laugh despite herself, shaking her head. "You''re defending Justin Hammer. Never thought I''d see the day."


    "Hey, even a broken clock, right?" Tony said, grinning faintly. He reached across the table, taking her hand in his. "Look, I know it''s a lot. And I know you''re worried. But we''ve got to play the cards we''re dealt. Hammer''s the best shot we''ve got at keeping the world from falling apart."


    Pepper studied him for a long moment, her eyes searching his face. Finally, she sighed, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "You really believe this is the best option?"


    "I do," Tony said, his voice steady. "And I wouldn''t be okay with it if I didn''t think we could keep things in check. Plus, we''ve got each other. If anyone can handle this, it''s us."


    Pepper smiled faintly, a mix of exasperation and affection in her expression. "You''re impossible, you know that?"


    "Yeah," Tony said, squeezing her hand. "But you love me anyway."


    She rolled her eyes but didn''t pull her hand away. "Fine. I''ll trust you on this. But you''d better not make me regret it."


    "Never," Tony promised, his grin widening. "And hey, at least now we''ve got two built-in kung fu bodyguards if we raise them right. Silver linings, right?"


    Pepper laughed despite herself, shaking her head. "You''re unbelievable."


    "That''s why you married me," Tony said, leaning back with a satisfied smirk.


    "And apparently why I''m now a mother to two kids whose father kidnapped me," Pepper said dryly.


    "Welcome to the Stark family," Tony said, spreading his arms. "It''s a wild ride."


    "Sir, priority call from Stark Industries." Jarvis interrupted.


    "Ugh, ignore." Tony said, eying Pepper hungrily, wondering if suggesting they make their own baby would work, or backfire.


    Pepper slapped his hand lightly, "No, not ignore. With everything as it is, you can''t afford to miss out on priority calls. Jarvis, what is it?"


    "Mr. Stane just suffered a heart attack in the San Francisco office, paramedics are on site." Jarvis reported.


    Obie! Tony thought, his heart racing as he slumped back in disbelief. Pepper was already moving to arrange things, booking a flight to San Francisco and arranging the best medical care money could buy.


    It was a wasted effort.


    Jarvis reported that he had been pronounced dead less than an hour later.


    <hr>


    San Francisco,


    She stood in the back, an expression of shock and grief on her face, a co-worker idly patting her hand as they huddled together, listening to the highest ranking Stark Industries manager on site as he informed them Obadiah Stane had not survived, and giving them the rest of the day off.


    She received a lot of murmured condolences, as co-workers rushed to assure her she couldn''t possibly have known.


    That Obadiah Stane drank and smoked and ate steak on the daily, so it wasn''t too surprising.


    She continued to play the role of a shell shocked young secretary, as worried co-workers made sure she made it home.


    It was unfortunate that she would have to remain in the company for a few months before suddenly quitting, her heart not able to take continuing to work in the same office she''d witnessed a death in.


    But leaving immediately would draw suspicion, whereas sticking through it a few months would allay any such worries.


    The Widow smiled to herself only once she was secure in her apartment, Obadiah Stane had been ridiculously easy to poison.


    No medical examination would find the untraceable compound she''d used, developed by Hammer Industries to cause a massive natural seeming heart attack.


    She knew her sisters were getting rid of dozens of ''troubling'' characters across the globe in a similar manner.


    It felt good, to be put to proper use again.


    Removing those who did not fit the vision of their leader.


    <hr>


    New York City.


    Sebastian Shaw sat in the dimly lit private dining room of an upscale Manhattan restaurant, the clinking of crystal glasses and the soft murmur of conversations filling the air. He cut into his prime rib with the precision of a surgeon, his movements calm and confident. Around him, influential men and women laughed at his jokes, their admiration feeding the ever-present smirk on his face. Shaw was in his element, surrounded by power, basking in the knowledge that he was untouchable.


    Even with having been forced to leave Hammer alone, Selene backing down in the perfect moment to strike, he was still one of the most powerful men in the world.


    Especially now that Hammer removed so many others. Things were looking very bright indeed for Shaw Industries.


    Then the pain hit.


    It started as a sharp, stabbing sensation in his chest, like someone had driven an ice pick directly into his heart. Shaw froze mid-bite, his fork slipping from his fingers and clattering against the porcelain plate. A faint gasp escaped his lips as he pressed a hand to his chest, his polished composure cracking.


    "Mr. Shaw?" One of his associates asked, concern flickering across his face.


    "I''m fine," Shaw ground out, waving them off. But even as he spoke, the pain intensified, radiating outward in a wave of agony that stole the breath from his lungs.


    Impossible. He thought, his mind racing as sweat beaded on his forehead. This can''t be happening. I''m enhanced.


    The realization hit him like a freight train. Extremis. He had paid Justin Hammer a king''s ransom for the cutting-edge biological enhancement, an investment that had rendered him stronger, able to regenerate from damage, and seemingly immune to the ravages of time. It was supposed to make him invincible. And yet, his heart felt like it was being crushed in a vice.


    Betrayed! He''d been betrayed!


    He tried to rise from his chair, but his legs buckled beneath him, sending him crashing to the floor. The sharp crack of china breaking and the dull thud of his body hitting the hardwood silenced the room. Shaw''s vision blurred as he clawed at the edge of the table, sending wine glasses and silverware scattering.


    "Call an ambulance!" Someone shouted, their voice distant and panicked.


    He can turn Extremis off! Shaw snarled mentally, howling at the injustice.


    Shaw''s world narrowed to the unbearable pain in his chest and the cold sweat soaking his back. His breathing came in ragged gasps, each one a monumental effort.


    "S''not fair¡­" He rasped, his voice barely audible. His thoughts spiraled as darkness crept into the edges of his vision. He was doing this. He can control Extremis. That bastard¡­ He cursed Hammer silently, his hatred burning brighter than the pain that consumed him.


    The last thing Shaw saw before the darkness claimed him was the shattered remains of his wine glass, its crimson contents pooling like blood on the floor.


    <hr>


    Justin Hammer lounged back in the chair in the office that had once symbolized the power of democracy. Now, it symbolized him. His head rested against the high-backed seat, eyes half-lidded as if he might drift into a satisfied nap at any moment. The Oval Office was his domain, the air inside heavy with his effortless command. The resolute desk, polished to a reflective gleam, bore a few items of note - a sleek laptop, a small tumbler of scotch within reach, and Domino casually perched on the edge with a mischievous grin, underneath it was a different matter¡­


    Phantazia stood to his left, poised with a tablet that glowed faintly in her hands. She was as composed as ever, although there was a faint hint of smugness there, as she relished her position as the world came to heel. Her calm voice echoed with authority, the precision of a general reporting to her emperor.


    He might not be the God-Emperor yet, but it would come.


    "There''s still opposition from the usual suspects," She said smoothly, glancing at the screen, "But most of Europe, Africa, Central and North America have fully fallen. Their leadership has signed onto the agreement." She tilted her head, allowing herself the smallest smile of satisfaction.


    Justin let out a pleased sigh, eyes closed as he just enjoyed victory, and all that came with it, the soft glughk-glughk coming from underneath the desk as Yelena sucked him off probably helped.


    He was in the oval office - of course he''d get blown under the desk, like each President before him no doubt had. It was tradition.


    Justin let out a long sigh, the corners of his mouth curling up as his eyes drifted shut. "Good. It''s a start," He murmured, one hand stroking Yelena''s hair as she worshiped him, "Nothing like the sound of the world crumbling under its own weight while we rebuild it, huh?"


    Domino snorted, twirling a lock of her hair. "Yeah, boss, they''re definitely falling over themselves to kiss your boots, it''s hilarious to see how easy it was to get them all on their knees like little whores just begging for a fix."


    Justin smirked, tapping the fingers of one hand idly against the armrest, as the other rested on Yelena''s head, "As they should."


    Phantazia shifted slightly, adjusting her stance as she continued. "I assume we''ll keep the national borders intact for now?"


    "Of course," Justin replied lazily, waving a dismissive hand. "People are stupidly attached to those lines on a map. Let them think they matter. Keeps the masses calm while we get everything in place. The governments stay for now. Figureheads. They take the heat when things go wrong, and I get all the credit when things go right."


    He was aware that people were nationalistic idiots, so there was no point yet in erasing borders and governments off the board entirely. Not when they could be such useful puppets, taking all the pain from uplifting the world, until they became entirely obsolete and he could remove them completely.


    A gradual approach would yield far better results in ensuring stability while maintaining control over these newly acquired territories. Justin was acutely aware that reshaping an entire world required finesse; there was no need to entirely dismantle borders or governments just yet. Instead, he envisioned a delicate balancing act - allowing the semblance of autonomy while meticulously reprogramming the foundations of society itself.


    Schools would serve as the cornerstone of this transformation, subtly reengineered under the guise of progress. Traditional classrooms would be redesigned to include a few hours of physical and social activities each day, encouraging teamwork, discipline, and a sense of unity under Hammer''s vision. The bulk of education, however, would take place within advanced Hammer Industries pods - originally developed for the ''rehabilitation'' of prisoners. They would now serve a dual purpose: imparting knowledge, while secretly instilling unwavering loyalty to their benefactor.


    Of course, such a system required caution. Mind-shaping was an intricate art, not a blunt tool to wield carelessly. Justin understood the risks; it wasn''t about creating mindless drones who functioned without question. Automatons lacked initiative, creativity, and the ability to adapt - qualities essential for a thriving society.


    No, what he desired were devoted individuals, everyday citizens who genuinely believed in his benevolence, who revered him not out of fear, but out of an unshakable conviction in his greatness. Rebellion, in their minds, would not only be unthinkable - it would be pure anathema.


    Yet, this grand vision needed refinement. Brainwashing, after all, was a delicate and complex process, requiring meticulous calibration. The pods had to be adjusted, tested, perfected. Children''s minds, while malleable, were also fragile; he couldn''t afford to cause irreparable damage in his pursuit of loyalty.


    The goal was not to erase their individuality but to mold it into something compatible with the ideals of the new world order - his world order. For now, this careful integration of technology into education would sow the seeds of devotion while appearing, to the public, as nothing more than a groundbreaking innovation in learning.


    In time, once society had matured under his guidance, the facade of governance could be stripped away entirely. The people, already conditioned to view him as their savior, would hardly notice the transition at that point. And when that day came, Justin knew, the world would be ready to embrace his empire completely, willingly, and without resistance.


    So, for the time being, Justin had no intention of abolishing world governments outright. They would remain intact, albeit stripped down to their bare essentials, functioning under a slimmed-down and streamlined structure. The bulk of their cumbersome bureaucracy would be eliminated, replaced by Nail''s efficient oversight. With her unmatched computational capabilities, she could handle the complex intricacies of governance far better than any bloated administrative body ever could.


    These governments, now mere shadows of their former selves, would act as figureheads. Their purpose was simple - to absorb any backlash, deflecting public dissatisfaction while Justin reaped the benefits. Every misstep, every unpopular policy, would fall squarely on their shoulders. Meanwhile, he would step into the role of the world''s provider and savior, delivering tangible solutions to global crises - food, medicine, and stability - all bearing the unmistakable Hammer Industries insignia.


    The United Nations, once a toothless relic of idealism, one that had already died, was being reborn as the Hammer Federation. Each nation would nominally retain its sovereignty, but their leaders would be required to publicly pledge allegiance to Hammer Industries. The Federation was not an empire yet, but a global alliance committed to ''serving the best interests of humanity''. This was the public narrative - a thinly veiled condemnation of the failures of past governments.


    People could continue to play act with their pointless elections and pretend democracy was still there, while any important decision would be made by Hammer Industries under the veil of his Federation.


    With Hammer Industries at the helm, the Federation''s purpose would be twofold - to maintain the illusion of national autonomy while centralizing all meaningful decision-making under his control. This arrangement would give the people time to adjust to the new order while consolidating his influence. Over time, as the Federation delivered results, any leftover public resistance would wane, and the allegiance of nations would transform into complete submission.


    Justin leaned back, his mind racing with the possibilities. Five years - perhaps even less. That was all he would need to dismantle the old world and raise his empire in its place, unburdened by the trappings of diplomacy and pretense. Soon, there would be no need for borders, no need for figureheads. There would only be Justin Hammer.


    He left his thoughts, and tore himself away from focusing on the warm wet feeling worshiping him, as he focused back on Phantazia.


    "So, China and Russia are resisting? Who else?" Justin asked lazily, a satisfied groan slipping past his lips.


    Phantazia''s face twitched with a mix of exasperation and annoyance at what was happening while she reported in. Still, she kept her focus on the tablet in her hands, scrolling through the latest reports. Nearby, Domino and Sunil exchanged knowing glances, both faintly amused by Justin''s casual dismissal of what most would consider serious global resistance.


    "A few states in South America have banded together," Phantazia began, her tone carefully neutral as she explained. "Not because they harbor any real belief they can stand against you - they know they can''t beat you. Instead, their apparent goal is to leverage their position in an attempt to negotiate better terms for themselves. A last-ditch effort for a bigger slice of the pie." She punctuated the statement with a slight roll of her eyes, clearly unimpressed with their tactics.


    "You''d think people would learn by now¡­" Domino said, shaking her head, looking very amused, "How badly are you going to spank them?" She asked Justin, in a teasing tone.


    Justin raised an eyebrow at the absurdity of it, his fingers drumming lazily on the polished surface of the Oval Office desk. The faint smirk playing on his lips only grew as he leaned back in his chair, exuding complete confidence. "How droll," He murmured, the amusement in his voice underscored by an edge of disdain.


    He let his gaze wander to the ceiling for a moment, as if weighing their insolence against the greater scale of his ambitions. "You need a population of at least 200 million to even be worth a fraction of my attention," He remarked dismissively, waving a hand as though brushing away an insect.


    Domino chuckled under her breath, and even Sunil allowed himself a faint smile at the blunt arrogance of the statement. Phantazia, for her part, simply tapped a few commands into her tablet, as though already ensuring the offending nations'' posturing would be dealt with in due course. If Justin Hammer deemed them irrelevant, the world would soon follow suit.


    "Nail has already stirred the population into a frenzy," Sunil reported, his tone sharp and matter-of-fact. "The mere suggestion that you might sever ties has people panicking. The thought of losing access to Panacea clinics is enough to make them desperate, let alone the factories and other businesses Hammer Industries runs that dominate the South American economy." He leaned forward slightly, his expression calm but confident. "If the situation is left unchecked, it''s likely to collapse under its own weight. No need for intervention unless you desire it, sir - the problem will resolve itself."


    Justin listened, the faintest flicker of amusement crossing his face as he considered the chaos brewing thousands of miles away. He gave a small, approving nod, leaning back in his chair with the air of a man who had already anticipated this outcome. "Let them burn," He said lazily, his voice dripping with indifference. "Bloody revolutions are their specialty. Why should I waste my time or resources when they''ll do the job for me?"


    Whoever took over would sign their nations over anyway, he wouldn''t have to do a single thing.


    "And what about Russia and China?" Phantazia inquired, her tone calm and professional, though her sharp eyes betrayed a certain interest in how Justin intended to handle the world''s remaining outliers.


    Justin gave a low chuckle, his expression one of supreme confidence. "Simple," He said, waving a hand lazily as though dismissing their significance. "Cut them off entirely. Have NATO enforce strict closures along Russia''s borders. They''ll choke on their own isolation soon enough. As for China, we''ll use India, South Korea, and Japan to keep their ambitions in check. Deploy the U.S. Navy to control the surrounding seas and ensure they''re hemmed in on all sides. Let them stew in their own desperation."


    His tone was casual, almost flippant, as though the fate of two global superpowers was no more consequential than a mild inconvenience. "Why should I waste Hammer Industries'' resources on conquering them outright? The rest of the world is already bowing at my feet. Let Russia and China devour themselves - it''ll save me the trouble."


    Oh, he''d probably have to intervene eventually, but for now, they could seethe while he collected the rest of the world into his Federation.


    Phantazia gave an approving nod, tapping briskly on her tablet to relay the orders. "Understood, sir," she said smoothly, her fingers dancing across the screen with practiced precision.


    He wasn''t sure why she still bothered to use a tablet, she had a mental implant like the rest of them. It didn''t matter either way, as far as quirks went, hers was nothing compared to Domino, or Yelena.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, his gaze drifting lazily down, studying Yelena as she worked slowly, dragging things out. He hadn''t even had to ask, when he''d arrived in the oval office, Yelena had already been under the desk, waiting for him.


    He had the best minions in the world.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Phantazia glanced up from her screen, breaking the brief silence. "There''s still a considerable amount of work ahead of us," She said, her tone brisk but respectful. "Finalizing the Federation framework and restructuring the remaining governments will require attention in the coming days."


    It would take months to finalize everything, even with Nail taking over the bureaucracy, governments were created to be burdensome monoliths, it wasn''t the work of a day to break them apart. But they had time now, they''d already won.


    Justin gave a slight nod, his eyes half-lidded as he felt himself getting close. "Moving on, I trust the undesirables have been¡­ Dealt with?"


    Phantazia''s lips curled faintly at the corners, her expression betraying a hint of satisfaction. ''One hundred percent of the targets were eliminated." She reported happily.


    "So many people succumbing to strokes and heart attacks," Domino remarked lightly, her tone dripping with sardonic humor as she leaned back against the wall. "It''s almost as if the sudden, rapid changes to the world order have them a little¡­ Stressed. Poor things."


    Her words elicited a faint smirk from Justin, who remained relaxed in his chair even as he finally released, closing his eyes briefly as he let loose a small shudder. He drummed his fingers rhythmically on the edge of the desk before shifting his focus to Phantazia, even as Yelena continued her efforts. "And Selene Gallio?" He asked, his tone sharpening slightly. "Has she had any¡­ Moments of inspiration, or is she still remaining hands off?"


    Justin''s mind wandered briefly to Shaw - the man who had once been the driving force behind Selene doing anything at all, the Black Queen of Hellfire more set on living a hedonistic life than playing the game. Shaw had been a schemer, always looking for an angle, but his ambition had led him to cross Justin one too many times. Justin''s lips curled into a faint sneer at the thought. Removing Shaw hadn''t just been strategic; it had been personal.


    He still remembered Shaw''s meddling during the entire debacle with Stane, where he''d planned to kidnap Hope. That man, along with Obadiah Stane, had proven themselves to be nothing more than overconfident ants. And like all ants, they had been easily crushed beneath the weight of Justin''s plans. Shaw''s death was just one of many precise eliminations in Justin''s recent string of moves to consolidate his dominance.


    Selene was dangerous, but not easily removed. Luckily, Shaw was the major reason behind any threat from her, so he''d given himself time.


    He hadn''t forgiven Selene either¡­


    Phantazia glanced at her tablet, her expression composed. "Selene has not altered her usual patterns," She reported, her tone calm and professional. "Shaw''s death appears to have had no meaningful impact on her behavior. Upon receiving the notification of his demise, she reportedly organized an extravagant orgy at the Hellfire Club''s New York location. It seems she celebrated his passing rather than mourning it, or it is a simple audition for a new lover."


    Justin let out a dry chuckle, shaking his head in faint amusement. "Of course she did," He said, almost to himself. "No allegiances, no attachments - just her endless indulgence."


    Phantazia raised an eyebrow, awaiting further instructions.


    Justin''s gaze turned thoughtful, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Keep an eye on her," He instructed. "She may not care about Shaw, but that doesn''t mean she won''t make a move now that the power dynamic has shifted. If she does anything that even hints at disruption, I want to know about it immediately."


    He paused for a moment, leaning back in his chair and steepling his fingers. "If necessary, I have the Ancient One in my back pocket, or soon enough anyway," He added casually. "Selene won''t be a threat forever."


    Kamar-Taj was an outlier in the world when it came to his influence, the only place he could say he didn''t truly have a grasp on the leadership. Something he''d have to change.


    With the sheer level of infiltration Justin Hammer had achieved within most of the world''s governments, his rise to dominance had been remarkably straightforward. Political systems, supposedly fortified against external manipulation, had crumbled under the weight of his meticulously planned influence. The public''s overwhelming adoration for him, fueled by his carefully crafted persona and the tangible benefits of Hammer Industries'' advancements, had rendered resistance almost laughable. The masses worshipped him as their savior, leaving leaders with little choice but to comply or face their own irrelevance.


    Justin didn''t like loose ends, so Kamar-Taj would face the same fate as everyone else. It was only a matter of time before they too fell in line.


    Phantazia''s voice broke the brief silence that had settled over the room, her tone as measured and calm as ever. "We will need a new President of the United States to formally sign on to the Federation," She reminded him, her gaze lifting momentarily from the tablet she held to meet Justin''s.


    Justin opened his eyes, his relaxed demeanor never faltering as he regarded her with a faint smirk. "Ah, yes. The United States who''s had such a string of bad luck lately," He mused, leaning back further into the chair. After a moment, he turned his attention to Sunil, his tone casual, almost flippant. "Sunil, congratulations. You''re now the President of the United States."


    The room went silent for a moment, the sheer abruptness of the declaration hanging in the air.


    "Just as a ceremonial position, of course," Justin continued, waving a hand dismissively as though the matter were already settled. "Have some lackey deal with the actual day-to-day work. You just need to show up for photo ops and PR stunts. Smile for the cameras, give the occasional speech about progress and unity - all that boring stuff."


    Sunil raised an eyebrow, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth as he leaned slightly forward. "Sir," He said, his tone lightly amused, "I''m not American."


    Justin barely batted an eye at the response, his own grin widening as he dismissed the objection with a nonchalant shrug. "Someone get him an American citizenship," He said, the sheer audacity of his statement matched only by the casual authority in his tone. "I''m Justin Hammer. I choose who''s a citizen, or something like that." He delivered the words with such relaxed confidence that it was impossible to tell whether he was being entirely serious or just enjoying his own wit.


    Domino couldn''t help herself. She burst out laughing, the sound echoing in the room as she glanced between Justin and Sunil. "Oh, Sunil, you''ve been promoted to puppet-in-chief. Congratulations!" She teased, her laughter only growing louder at Sunil''s exasperated expression.


    Phantazia, ever the professional, attempted to hide her amusement behind a carefully neutral expression, though the faint twitch at the corners of her mouth betrayed her. Sunil, on the other hand, let out a resigned sigh, shaking his head as if already regretting his newfound ''prestige''.


    Justin let out another groan, as he looked up and waved them all away, "Now go spread word of my greatness or something, I need to christen this desk." He ordered, pulling Yelena up by her hair.


    Sunil and Phantazia both murmured goodbyes, leaving with their heads together, as they immediately began working on the next steps.


    Domino of course, being Domino, simply moved to the couch, lazily relaxing as she continued to watch. ''guarding'' him of course.


    "Let''s break the desk." Yelena suggested, breathlessly.


    If she was this excited now, Justin wondered what she''d be like later, with his new gift for her¡­


    <hr>


    New York, five days later, February, 2010.


    Peter sat stiffly in the plush office chair, the faint hum of air conditioning and the distant murmur of New York traffic filling the office space. Gwen sat beside him, leaning forward slightly, her eyes sparkling with curiosity as she took in the surroundings. The walls were adorned with Hammer Industries logos and, minimalist artwork that screamed money and power.


    It had been five days since Peter''s life had flipped upside down - again. Five days since his identity as Spider Man had been leaked, though, thankfully, the revelation had been drowned out by the media frenzy over the formation of the Hammer Federation. Half the world''s governments had signed up for oversight under Hammer Industries in exchange for stability and protection. Peter didn''t know how or why anyone would agree to that, but judging by Gwen''s excitement about it, he figured maybe it wasn''t all bad.


    He glanced sideways at Gwen, who seemed uncharacteristically giddy. She''d been practically bouncing in her seat when they''d arrived, eyes darting around the office, her scientific instincts in overdrive just from being inside a Hammer industries building. He hadn''t been able to bring himself to rain on her parade with his lingering misgivings.


    The door opened, and Peter immediately stiffened. Storm, tall and commanding in her uniform, strode in with effortless grace. Behind her was a shorter, sharp-eyed woman - Phantazia, if he remembered correctly. The presence of two powerful women made Peter''s nerves spike, though he couldn''t quite figure out why. Maybe it was because every time he so much as glanced at Storm, his face heated up like he''d been caught staring at her breasts.


    It didn''t help that Phantazia was also just unfairly beautiful and a proponent of skin tight uniforms.


    "Focus, Parker," He muttered under his breath, willing himself to look professional.


    Unfortunately, Gwen noticed his sudden avoidance of eye contact. She shot him a sly, knowing look, her lips quirking up in a teasing smile. He could already hear her later - Why can''t you look them in the eye, Peter? Is Storm too intimidating? Or is it the uniform? He groaned internally. Fuck my life¡­


    Phantazia sat down across from them, her demeanor cool and composed, while Storm remained standing behind her like an imposing guardian. Phantazia placed a crisp folder on the desk between them, the Hammer Industries logo embossed in silver on the front.


    "Apologies for the delay," Phantazia said, her tone brisk but not unkind. "Hammer Industries has been quite busy lately."


    "Yeah, I can imagine," Peter said, rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly. "You know, what with half the world deciding they, uh, want your boss running things."


    Phantazia''s lips twitched slightly, almost a smile, but her gaze remained level. "It''s been a productive week."


    Storm leaned slightly on the back of the chair, her eyes warm as they met Peter''s. "We''re here to talk about you, Peter. About what comes next."


    Peter blinked. "Uh, what comes next?" He repeated dumbly, Gwen giggling next to him, and as he glanced over, he could just tell she''d never let him live it down how he couldn''t look Storm in the eyes without flushing.


    Phantazia flipped open the folder and slid a few neatly typed documents toward him. "A new home, for starters. Hammer Industries has arranged secure housing for you. It will be equipped with advanced security systems to protect both you and anyone you care about."


    Peter''s eyes widened. "A new home?" He glanced at Gwen, who was already leaning over to look at the papers. "Why?"


    "Because your identity is public now," Phantazia explained matter-of-factly. "The moment your face was revealed, you became a target. Hammer Industries doesn''t let its assets remain vulnerable."


    "Assets?" Peter echoed, a note of skepticism creeping into his voice.


    Storm stepped in, her tone soothing. "Your hero work will remain independent, Peter. Think of this as support, not control."


    Gwen''s eyes lit up, and she leaned forward eagerly. "Support? Like what, exactly?"


    Phantazia''s expression didn''t change as she rattled off the list. "A salary. Comprehensive medical benefits. Access to Hammer Industries'' hero support teams in case of emergencies. And a direct line to our resources should you require them during your patrols."


    Peter''s jaw dropped slightly. "Wait - salary? Medical benefits? A panic button for hero support? Since when does any of this exist?"


    Storm chuckled softly, her smile kind. "Since five days ago, it''s called the Independent Hero support system. The program was created after your unmasking. Hammer Industries saw the need to formalize street-level hero support - both to protect you and to maintain the trust of the people."


    Gwen practically vibrated with excitement. "Peter, this is perfect! Everything you''ve ever needed to be a hero, without having to worry about money or, you know, getting sued for property damage!"


    Peter''s face twisted into a mix of surprise and hesitation. "It... Does sound good," He admitted slowly. "But what''s the catch?"


    Gwen elbowed him, sending him a look.


    "There''s always a catch," He added under his breath.


    Phantazia''s gaze was steady. "The catch, as you put it, is simply that you remain affiliated with Hammer Industries. Your independence will not be infringed upon, but you will be expected to uphold the values and guidelines we set for sponsored heroes."


    "Guidelines?" Peter frowned.


    Storm intervened gently. "Peter, the guidelines are about accountability. Transparency with the public. Ensuring your actions don''t endanger civilians unnecessarily. It''s nothing you don''t already strive to do."


    Gwen reached over and grabbed Peter''s arm. "Come on, Peter! This is everything we''ve ever talked about! Stability, security - this could change everything for you."


    Peter hesitated, chewing on the inside of his cheek. It did sound like everything he needed. He''d struggled trying to balance hero work with his personal life, always worried about school, about the people he was harming by hiding his heroing, about the people who might get hurt because of his choices. But something about it still nagged at him - the idea of being tied to a corporation, no matter how benevolent it seemed on the surface.


    As he mulled it over, Phantazia slid another folder across the table. "There''s more. Hammer Industries has a job offer for Gwen as well."


    Peter blinked. "Wait, what?"


    Gwen snatched up the folder before Peter could even react, flipping through the pages with wide eyes. Her excitement was palpable as she scanned the offer.


    "Biology and radiation research under Doctor Banner?" She said, her voice high-pitched with glee. "Peter, this is amazing!" She turned to him, practically bouncing in her seat. "Do you have any idea how huge this is?"


    Peter raised an eyebrow. "I''m guessing you''re about to tell me."


    "They''re offering me a full-time position with benefits, and - oh my god, look at the salary!" She slapped the folder down on the table, grabbing his arm in both hands. "Peter, this is perfect! It''s everything I''ve ever dreamed of! I didn''t even know Doctor Banner was part of Hammer Industries!"


    Phantazia smiled, "We gave him an offer recently and he wisely accepted."


    Peter coughed awkwardly, trying not to let her enthusiasm overwhelm him. "Yeah, it''s... definitely something," He said cautiously.


    Phantazia''s voice cut through the moment. "The decision is yours, Peter. But with your identity public, there aren''t many alternatives that offer this level of protection and support."


    Gwen''s grip tightened on his arm, her eyes pleading. "Peter, this is it. This is the chance to have everything you''ve ever wanted - to be Spider Man without losing everything else."


    Peter met her gaze, his chest tightening. He wanted to believe her. He wanted to believe this was the solution to all his problems. But he couldn''t shake the feeling that this was too good to be true - that there would be strings attached he couldn''t see yet.


    Still, as he looked at Gwen''s hopeful expression, he realized he didn''t have much of a choice. His face was out there. His enemies knew who he was. And Gwen was right - this was everything he''d ever wanted, handed to him on a silver platter.


    With how his life kept crashing down, maybe that''s why he was so suspicious of it. Nothing that good ever happened to him.


    He sighed, a small, resigned smile tugging at his lips. "Alright," He said softly. "Where do I sign?"


    Gwen squealed, throwing her arms around him in a tight hug. "You''re not going to regret this, Peter! I promise!"


    Peter chuckled nervously, patting her back as he tried to ignore the sinking feeling in his stomach. "Yeah," He muttered. "I hope you''re right."


    At least if Gwen was working with someone like Doctor Banner, he might be able to get to geek out a bit.


    <hr>


    Cairo,


    The portal shimmered and closed with a faint hum as Justin and Yelena stepped onto the sprawling platform made to facilitate portal transportation in the Cairo compound. The desert sun shone harshly outside the large structure, but within, the compound buzzed with activity under the muted, climate-controlled lighting.


    Justin adjusted the cuffs of his tailored jacket, glancing around with a calm but scrutinizing gaze. Workers bustled about, carrying components and welding together massive structures. At the center of the compound, engineers hovered over a translucent schematic projected in midair - a detailed blueprint of the backup arc reactor flight system Justin had commissioned. It was an enormous project, one he''d insisted on after realizing that even his floating metropolis of Cairo wasn''t invincible.


    The Power Stone was power incarnate, so Cairo would never run out of power and plummet to the earth.


    But who knew what could happen if someone managed to rip the Power Stone out of him? So a backup was a necessity.


    For hours, they toured the facility. Justin methodically checked on the reactor''s progress, stopping to ask pointed questions and make adjustments to the workflow. He was impressed - the project was on schedule, maybe even ahead. The engineers assured him that in a few months, Cairo would have a fully operational backup flight system - a safety net to ensure the city never plummeted from the sky, even if its primary power source failed.


    Finally, satisfied with the progress, Justin turned to Yelena. "There''s one more thing to take care of."


    Yelena arched an eyebrow but said nothing as he led her to the compound''s underground levels. They walked in comfortable silence until they reached a set of reinforced doors. Justin placed his hand on a biometric scanner, and with a quiet hiss, the doors slid open to reveal a massive room lined with sleek metal walls. The ceiling was high, disappearing into shadows, and the space seemed to hum with potential energy.


    Yelena stepped inside, her boots clicking softly against the polished floor. She looked around with an expression of curiosity and anticipation. "What is this for, pretty big for just somewhere to spar, no?"


    Justin chuckled. "Ah, it''s something quite special." He gestured around them. "This is a Danger Room. Courtesy of Xavier''s designs. He didn''t have much of a choice when I asked him for it."


    At this point Charles Xavier was basically his bitch.


    Her lips curled into a smirk. "You do have that effect on people."


    Justin rolled up his sleeves, revealing his forearms. Hidden beneath his cuffs were ten rings, shrunken and subdued but unmistakably powerful. With a subtle motion of his hand, the rings floated into the air, gleaming faintly as they hovered before Yelena.


    Her eyes widened slightly, her gaze fixed on the rings. "The Mandarin''s weapon?" She asked, her head tilting in intrigue.


    Justin gave a small, satisfied nod. "Not anymore." With another flick of his wrist, the rings zipped toward her, coiling around her arms and settling snugly on her forearms. The metal seemed to shift and adjust, shrinking until they fit perfectly.


    Yelena gasped, her arms lighting up as the rings glowed in rhythm with her heartbeat. Energy coursed through her body, a visible aura pulsing around her like a second skin. She raised her arms, flexing her fingers as if testing the power now at her disposal.


    "They''re yours," Justin said simply, his voice tinged with amusement as he watched her awe-struck expression.


    Yelena''s lips curved into a half-grin. "Not the kind of ring I had hoped for," She teased, her eyes sparkling mischievously. "But these¡­ These are amazing." She flexed her arms again, the rings responding to her movements with fluid grace.


    Justin gestured toward the far end of the room. "Test them out. Let''s see what you can do."


    The Danger Room sprang to life. The walls shimmered, and a dozen robotic adversaries materialized, their sleek, metallic forms gleaming under the lights. They moved with precision, weapons emerging from hidden compartments as they circled Yelena.


    She didn''t hesitate. With a wild grin, she launched herself into the fray, the rings blazing as she moved.


    The first robot lunged at her, swinging a serrated blade. Yelena raised her arm, and one of the rings shot forward like a projectile, slamming into the robot''s chest and sending it skidding across the floor in a shower of sparks. She twisted, using the momentum to leap onto another robot, her legs wrapping around its neck as she drove a second ring into its head.


    The machine crumpled beneath her as the ring fired a beam of energy, Yelena tossing herself into the air, flicking rings down beneath herself and using them as spring steps as she stepped across the air only to fall down on another robot, slamming her arms together, the rings returning to her arms, going through the robot as it fell into parts, each piece melted at the edges.


    The rings seemed to anticipate her intentions. As another pair of robots advanced, she flung her arms wide, and the rings shot out in a sweeping arc, firing into both enemies with a concussive blast. The robots were thrown back, crashing into the walls with a deafening clang. Another beam followed them and disintegrated them as Yelena got the feel of the powers she could use.


    "Not bad for a beginner!" Justin called from the sidelines, arms crossed as he leaned casually against the wall.


    Yelena didn''t respond. She was too engrossed, her movements a blend of fluid acrobatics and sheer power. She vaulted over one robot, the rings forming a protective shield around her midair before she landed behind it and delivered a devastating punch that sent it sprawling, a sonic blast emanating from the ring.


    She spun, her eyes alight with exhilaration, and directed the rings to form a barrier as three robots opened fire. The bullets ricocheted harmlessly, and she used the opportunity to hurl the rings forward. They spiraled through the air like boomerangs, slicing through the robots'' weapons and skulls with surgical precision before returning to her arms as she cocked them like a shotgun, smirking.


    One final robot lunged at her, larger and more heavily armed than the rest. Yelena crouched, her muscles coiling like a spring, and then launched herself upward. The rings fired down, as they propelled her into the air, and as she turned in the air and came down with a thunderous impact, slamming both fists - and the glowing rings - into the machine''s core, firing a fiery blast that spewed flames all around her. It shattered beneath her, fragments scattering across the floor.


    Panting slightly, Yelena straightened, her face glowing with happiness. She turned to Justin, her expression a mixture of awe and delight. "These are incredible!" She exclaimed, holding out her arms to admire the rings. "It''s like they''re almost alive!"


    Justin smiled softly, stepping forward. "They also make you immortal," He said, his voice quieter now. "You''ll always be with me."


    For a moment, Yelena stared at him, her eyes wide and searching. Then, with a sudden laugh, she tackled him, wrapping her arms around his shoulders and bringing them both to the ground.


    Justin landed with a soft oof, but he didn''t resist. He even allowed himself a small chuckle, pretending not to notice the faint sniffle as Yelena buried her face against his neck. Her grip was fierce, almost crushing, but he didn''t mind.


    "Thank you," She murmured, her voice muffled but filled with emotion.


    Justin stroked her hair lightly, his own expression softening. "You''re welcome," He said simply, his voice carrying a rare note of sincerity.


    For a while, neither of them moved, the hum of the Danger Room the only sound in the background.


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, the next day,


    Justin leaned back in his chair, his eyes flicking across the glowing holographic interface projected from his desk. The blue light cast sharp angles on his face as he skimmed through the latest financial reports. Even with his empire''s resources expanding exponentially, there were always curiosities - flagged expenditures that demanded attention. His gaze snagged on one such report, causing his eyebrows to lift in mild surprise.


    "Nail," He called out, his voice carrying an edge of bemused curiosity. "Why did you flag yourself for spending dozens of billions of dollars? You don''t usually ask permission for such simple things."


    The air shimmered, and Nail''s holographic form materialized in the center of the office. Her appearance - pristine and professional, with a hint of shyness in her expression - belied the massive computational power she wielded as Justin''s personal AI assistant. She clasped her hands in front of her, her posture almost sheepish.


    "Sir," She began hesitantly, "I noticed one of the projects you had shelved some time ago and decided to rework it. But the five billion you allocated to me for discretionary use wasn''t enough as it was meant for me to use for a ''hobby business''."


    Justin''s other eyebrow joined the first, his surprise growing. Nail had always been meticulous with her spending, almost reluctant to dip into the funds he allotted for her. "You''re saying you burned through several dozen billion dollars¡­ On something I shelved?" His tone was more curious than accusatory, but Nail still fidgeted under his scrutiny.


    "Yes," She admitted, her voice tinged with guilt. "The project had potential, and I thought it aligned with your current goals, it was only halfway through my excitement that I realized I should have asked for orders before starting to requisition supplies and manpower."


    Justin leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk, his fingers steepled under his chin. "What project are we talking about here?" He asked, his curiosity piqued.


    He wasn''t worried about it, Nail was utterly loyal and incapable of betrayal, so whatever she''d done, it was just money.


    Nail''s holographic form straightened, her guilt giving way to a flicker of pride as she gestured with one hand. A three-dimensional projection materialized above the desk - a massive floating city, gleaming with futuristic architecture and neon lights, looking very cyberpunk, perched in the skies over the endless waves of the Atlantic Ocean. The details were mesmerizing, from towering skyscrapers to sprawling entertainment districts illuminated by vibrant colors.


    His eyes flicked through several of the notes on main attractions, Casinos, strip clubs, brothels, death races, hunting games with criminals as the bait, cage fights to the death.


    She really was going fully cyberpunk den of sin, he thought with amusement, wondering how much of this was his influence on her.


    "This," Nail said, gesturing to the hologram, "is a city of sin and vice - Night City. A place where everything goes and everything can be bought."


    Justin''s eyes widened slightly as recognition dawned on him, it had sounded familiar. "Ah, that," He murmured, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "I remember shelving it because the cost was absolutely obscene. Getting something like that operational was a logistical nightmare at the time."


    He''d wanted his city to be special, otherwise it would just be Madripoor.


    "True," Nail acknowledged, her tone a touch more confident now. "But with the advancements you''ve made - especially with Cairo as a proof of concept - the project is no longer out of reach. The floating infrastructure, energy efficiency, and security measures are all within Hammer Industries'' capabilities."


    Justin leaned back, his lips curving into an intrigued smile. "And your reasoning for dusting this off now?"


    Nail hesitated for a moment, then continued. "With the world gradually coming under your control, sir, I thought a location like this would serve multiple purposes. First, it would generate immense profit from those seeking thrills and indulgence. Second, it would act as a magnet for individuals resistant to Hammer Industries'' governance - rebels, criminals, and other nonconformists. Concentrating them in one place makes them easier to monitor and contain." Or dispose of, was left unsaid.


    Justin chuckled, impressed by her logic. "Not bad. Even if it was my idea to begin with, I can see the polish you''ve added to it, and you believe this will draw all the people refusing to live in a Hammer world?"


    Which would be amusing, since everywhere was the Hammer world.


    "Undoubtedly," Nail replied, her holographic expression resolute. "It would become a hub for those seeking freedom from conventional restrictions, effectively consolidating resistance in one manageable location."


    Justin rubbed his chin again, considering the proposal. "It''s not a bad idea," He admitted. "As a trillionaire, I can certainly afford it." He waved a hand dismissively. "Fine, you have permission to proceed. Make it a reality."


    Nail''s form visibly brightened, her holographic face breaking into a pleased smile. If she''d had a tail, Justin thought wryly, it would have been wagging.


    "Thank you, sir," She said earnestly.


    Justin''s amusement deepened. "Now, about the five billion you were supposed to use on something fun¡­" His tone turned playful as he raised an eyebrow. "I assume you''ve been doing more than just preparing to build a den of sin?"


    Nail''s expression shifted to something bordering on mischievous as she forwarded another file to the desk interface. A new hologram flickered to life, revealing a cozy yet eccentric concept - a restaurant chain styled after Japanese cat maid cafes, complete with waitresses in feline-themed attire. However, the twist was evident in the accompanying designs - the staff weren''t just costumed but bio-sculpted, sporting actual animal ears and tails.


    Justin''s lips twitched as he struggled to suppress a laugh. "A cat maid restaurant," He said slowly, "Modeled after maid cafes¡­ But with genetically engineered catgirls?"


    Nail nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, sir! Dr. Cho has been assisting with the bio-sculpting as a side project in the few days she''s been back and she believes she can pull it off easily."


    Justin leaned back, his grin widening. "Let me get this straight. I give you five billion dollars to enjoy yourself, and you decide to use it to bring anime catgirls to life?"


    "Exactly, sir!" Nail replied, beaming. "I thought it would be an excellent use of the funds. The novelty alone will attract customers, and the bio-sculpting advancements could have broader applications for Hammer Industries."


    Justin let out a low laugh, shaking his head. "Well, I did say you could do anything with the money. If this is your idea of fun, who am I to argue?"


    And she wasn''t wrong. There were enough people out there identifying as cats, or trees or even weirder. Bio sculpting would be a valuable extension of Hammer industries. Even if¡­ This hadn''t been the ideal way of introducing it.


    Nail''s avatar looked practically radiant with satisfaction as Justin leaned forward, still chuckling. "My AI is revolutionizing vice cities and creating catgirls. I''ve never been prouder."


    He glanced at the hologram of the caf¨¦ again, his grin lingering. "Just make sure it''s profitable. If I''m funding your hobbies, I expect results."


    "Of course, sir," Nail said, her tone as eager as ever.


    Justin leaned back once more, marveling at how his empire had evolved.


    He had a feeling cat girls would actually be one of his top sellers, which just went to show how the world operated.


    Sex and money.


    The world operated on sex and money


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, USA, 1st of March, 2010.


    Justin sat back in his chair in his office in Hammerhaven, his fingers casually drumming against the polished desk. Behind him, a digital map of the world shimmered, marking the territories he had brought under his influence fully by this point.


    At least two thirds of the map was under his control.


    It was time to deal with the mystical world.


    With a flick of his wrist, a portal opened, its violet energy crackling softly in the center of the room. It shimmered, showing a view of Kamar-Taj, where he spotted Mordo, who was directing a group of students in combat drills. The ancient courtyard, framed by the mountains, would normally be hard to breach, but Power had a way of its own.


    Through the portal, Mordo''s sharp gaze snapped toward the disturbance. His expression hardened immediately, his voice cutting through the air. "You are not allowed, outsider! The arrogance to think you could penetrate Kamar-Taj''s defences without consequence -"


    Justin leaned back, a small, amused smirk playing on his lips. "Don''t worry, Mordo. I''ll be penetrating Kamar-Taj quite deeply today," He quipped, his tone dripping with mockery.


    Domino, who was leaning against the back wall let out a giggle, already having an idea where his mind was going.


    The apprentices around Mordo froze, their movements halting as their teacher''s rage visibly boiled. Mordo stepped forward, summoning the energy of the mystic arts into his hands, his posture tense and ready for battle.


    "You''ve gone too far, Hammer!" He snarled, his expression fierce."Kamar-Taj is sacrosanct, and not a party of your mundane games!"


    Before Mordo could unleash a single spell, Justin casually clenched his fist. A pulse of violet energy rippled through the portal, slamming into Mordo like an invisible tidal wave. He was hurled backward with bone-jarring force, crashing into the stone walls of Kamar-Taj. The courtyard went silent as the apprentices stared in shock, their teacher now slumped against the wall, groaning weakly.


    Justin''s voice was cold and commanding as he spoke, addressing the remaining mystics. "Bring me the Ancient One," He ordered. "Her God requests her presence."


    The stunned silence that followed was punctuated only by the faint hum of the portal. The apprentices exchanged nervous glances, torn between fear and defiance. Unsure of what to do, and the consequences of their choice.


    Before they could decide, a golden portal spiraled into existence in the courtyard. From it stepped the Ancient One, her serene expression betraying neither surprise nor anger. She took in the scene - the trembling apprentices, the crumpled Mordo - with a single sweeping glance before her eyes settled on the portal leading to Justin''s office.


    "Mr. Hammer," She said, her tone calm and even. "You do have my e-mail if you need to reach me."


    Justin''s smirk widened as he leaned forward slightly, resting his chin on his steepled fingers. "Good to see you can''t see everything anymore," He said, his voice carrying a smug edge.


    He had suspected as much, but it was good to have it confirmed. Divinity and infinity together no doubt made it much harder for her to look ahead and get answers.


    Or she would have already been waiting for him.


    The Ancient One raised an eyebrow, the barest hint of reproach in her expression. "And yet here you are, intruding upon Kamar-Taj rather than simply asking."


    Justin''s smirk faded, his eyes narrowing as his demeanor shifted to one of authority. He crooked his finger, beckoning her forward through the portal. "Come along, now," He commanded. "Don''t talk back to your superiors."


    Before the Ancient One could move, Stephen Strange stepped forward, his hands glowing with the beginnings of a spell. "You don''t have to listen to him," He implored, his tone urgent. "We can fight him - together."


    The Ancient One turned to Strange, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. Her smile was soft, almost maternal, as she spoke. "Stephen," She said, her voice calm and resolute. "It''s not a matter of choice. It''s a matter of necessity."


    As he went to speak, she interrupted him with a gentle smile, "Things are as they should be, the world will be stronger, we will be stronger. Trust me."


    Strange''s expression tightened, but he stepped back reluctantly. The Ancient One strode through the portal, her poise unshaken. The violet energy swirled closed behind her, leaving her alone in Justin''s office.


    Domino leaned casually against the wall, her sharp eyes watching the interaction with interest. Hela lounged nearby, twirling a necrosword idly in her hand, her predatory grin promising violence at the slightest provocation.


    She was there simply as a threat. A show of what any kind of misbehavior might lead to.


    After all, between him and Hela, he was sure which the Ancient One would rather be on the receiving end of when it came to suffering their anger¡­


    The Ancient One inclined her head slightly toward Justin. "Congratulations on your world domination," She said, her tone light but laced with subtle irony. "It seems your efforts have borne fruit."


    "Not quite yet," Justin replied, his voice cold and measured. His eyes locked onto hers with unrelenting intensity. "One piece of business still remains."


    The Ancient One nodded knowingly, her expression thoughtful. "Ah. You intend to bring Kamar-Taj under your control."


    Justin''s lips curled into a smile, though it didn''t reach his eyes. "You catch on quickly," He said. "You have two options. Submit to my authority and accept my orders moving forward - or be wiped out entirely. Kaecilius can rebuild a new order to protect this realm."


    The Ancient One''s gaze sharpened at the mention of wiping out the order. "You would risk leaving Earth vulnerable to the likes of Dormammu? To forces that even you cannot control?"


    Wiping out the order would result in weaknesses, that was true. But Kaecillius could train a new cadre, and with the time stone, they didn''t even need to leave Earth vulnerable for long.


    In essence, Justin wouldn''t let himself be held hostage by this frustrating woman.


    She could play ball, or suffer the consequences.


    He was the ultimate authority on Earth now. No one else.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers once more. "I hold the Power Stone," He said, his voice brimming with confidence. "And I''ll have the Time Stone, too, if it comes to that and you force me into eradicating you. Believe me, I can handle whatever comes my way."


    She''d pulled strings to help him get to this point, so he wasn''t overly worried she''d fight him. And as scary as the time stone was¡­ She''d shown herself fairly unimaginative in using it.


    And if nothing else, her weakness for Stephen Strange would be enough to hold her back, if they threatened his existence.


    The Ancient One regarded him silently for a long moment. The weight of her decision hung heavy in the air, pressing down on everyone in the room. Finally, she spoke, her voice steady and resolute.


    "There is nothing I wouldn''t do to protect this planet from mystical threats," She said. Slowly, she knelt before him, her head bowed in submission. "I will not relinquish the Time Stone, but you have the services of Kamar-Taj."


    Justin scoffed, waving a dismissive hand. "You don''t need to. I know you''re too pragmatic to let something as petty as pride get in the way of survival. You''ll be a good little minion, won''t you?"


    The Ancient One raised her head, meeting his gaze with calm determination. "I will do what is necessary," She replied, a hint of trepidation underneath the serenity.


    Hela leaned forward, eyes sparking with interest as she looked between Justin and the Ancient One.


    Justin''s smirk returned, his satisfaction evident. "Good. Keep that attitude." He said even as he undid his belt.


    "I have some issues with you to work out¡­"


    He''d never forgive her for her hand in Hope''s death.


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, USA.


    Justin sat down at the head of a gleaming, ultra-modern conference table with holographic displays in a conference room attached to Helen''s labs. They had a discussion to get through, as he''d found out the crazy woman was actually pregnant with his child.


    Something he had not at all been planning on.


    Something he was fairly annoyed about that no one had bothered to tell him since she''d been rescued.


    He couldn''t blame Helen, really. The crazy woman believed he knew simply because of his godhood. It was hard to argue against her belief in his omnipotence.


    Helen Cho looked radiant, practically glowing with devotion, her hands folded demurely over her stomach as she sat opposite of him. Her serene smile only deepened Justin''s unease. She gazed at him as if he were the center of the universe, which, to her, he probably was. Her brilliance and fanatic loyalty had always been useful, even comforting in its predictability. But now? Now, she was pregnant with his child.


    The thought alone sent a ripple of unease through him.


    He hadn''t wanted to be a father at all, let alone have it be raised by someone of¡­ Questionable sanity, as useful as she was.


    "How exactly did this happen?" Justin finally asked, his voice even but edged with disbelief. "We have birth control that works against extremis. You designed it yourself, didn''t you?"


    Granted, he himself heard the problem there, had she done this on purpose?


    Helen tilted her head slightly, as if confused by his confusion. "Yes, my god," She said sweetly, "But birth control is made for mortals. You are not mortal anymore."


    Justin blinked, then leaned back in his chair, his brow furrowing. "Excuse me?" Domino''s giggling in the background was not helping, as he sent her an annoyed look.


    Helen''s smile widened, her tone almost playful. "We tested everything extensively. It works perfectly for any enhanced individual, even those on extremis or more advanced biological modifications. But for you¡­" Her hand moved gently to rest on her stomach. "It does not work against a god."


    Justin paled slightly. His fingers tapped against the table in a rapid rhythm as his thoughts raced. "Of course, why the hell didn''t I think of -" He cut himself off, sighing. There was no point in quibbling about the details. His abilities had surpassed anything mortal, his influence stretched across the globe, and apparently, his DNA had decided it wasn''t bound by human limitations either - which made sense, he wasn''t strictly human anymore.


    He just hadn''t thought of the consequences of that.


    He pinched the bridge of his nose. "Okay, fine. But if that''s the case... Does this apply to everyone?" His voice was sharper now, tinged with dread.


    Helen beamed at him, her devotion palpable. "Yes, my god. From my tests, even a barren mortal woman would conceive your child. Your divine essence ensures it." Her voice was brimming with pride, as though this revelation was a testament to his greatness.


    Like him spreading babies everywhere was fantastic.


    Justin froze, his mind grinding to a halt for a moment. He replayed her words and then forced himself to ask, "Even barren women?" He croaked out, Domino outright laughing at him now, having fallen back against the wall, tears running down her face.


    Helen nodded eagerly, her hand never leaving her stomach. "Yes, even a woman deemed infertile would be blessed with your child. It''s... Miraculous."


    Miraculous. Justin wasn''t so sure about that. He rubbed his temples, muttering to himself. "Of all the perks of divinity, this is the one no one warns you about."


    After a long pause, he asked warily, "What about Hela?"


    If he''d knocked up Hela, he was inviting troubles far beyond what he was willing to deal with. His libido had never been an issue to him, but if he had to parent a child with Hela, it really, really was an issue.


    Helen looked thoughtful for a moment before replying brightly, "Oh, I''ve run plenty of tests on her samples. Based on what I''ve seen, she can''t conceive unless she wills it. So, no worries there, unless she willed it so, of course."


    He should be safe there thankfully, and maybe he should have a conversation with her? If she could turn her fertility on or off, maybe he could as well¡­


    Justin blinked a moment later, mind catching on to something Helen had said. "Hold up. Since when do we have samples of Hela?" He sounded more exasperated than anything else, but a flicker of curiosity crept into his tone.


    It felt like something he should have been aware of¡­


    One of the downsides of his company becoming so big, even with an AI, he himself could only check on, and take in so much information in a day.


    Helen clasped her hands together, looking genuinely delighted. "Oh, she''s been a wonderful subject! She willingly spends hours in my lab, letting me study her physiology. She''s so excited about the needles and scalpels! I''ve never had such a cooperative participant."


    Justin groaned, dragging a hand down his face. "That... Actually tracks. Of course, she would enjoy that nowadays." He sighed heavily, his mind already darting to his next concern.


    He leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling. Mentally, he began sifting through the rather extensive list of women he''d been with since ascending to his godlike state. The list was... Substantial.


    One of the reasons Domino was still laughing, because she wasn''t on it, and she''d been around for most of it, so she knew how many women he''d slept with.


    "How many?" He muttered to himself aloud, not really expecting an answer.


    "Excuse me, my god?" Helen asked politely.


    Justin waved a hand. "Nothing. I was just thinking about... The potential fallout." He sat up straighter, his gaze narrowing on Helen. "You''re sure about this? Every single woman?"


    Helen nodded with a bright dopey smile as she stared at him devotedly. "Yes, my god. Your divinity transcends mortal limitations. Any woman you''ve been with would almost certainly be carrying your child by now."


    Justin let out a slow breath, feeling the weight of the revelation settle on his shoulders. "Fantastic," He muttered sarcastically. "So, what you''re saying is, my sex drive just created an entirely new generation of little me''s."


    Helen smiled serenely. "A blessing upon the world, my god, a generation of demigods."


    "Ohmygod, I''m going to die, this is the best thing that''s ever happened, ever!" Domino managed to get out, holding her sides as she snorted in laughter.


    Justin shot her a flat look. "You''re fired."


    Domino giggled, sending him an impish look, "I don''t think you can afford to lose a bodyguard now that you''ll need at least a dozen ~baby security details~."


    He rubbed his temples again, trying to process the implications. Some women wouldn''t care. Yelena, for instance, would probably take it in stride, perhaps even as excited about it as Helen. Though, she''d likely be annoyed at how many widows would need to be pulled from active duty in a few months. Still, she was practical; she''d adapt.


    But then there was Storm. Ororo Munroe wasn''t the type to take something like this lightly. Sure, she had wanted to get closer to him, advocating for metahumans and trying to establish stronger ties with Hammer Industries. Well, congratulations, Justin thought grimly. Mission accomplished.


    "This is going to be a nightmare," He muttered under his breath.


    <hr>

 Family Times

    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, March 5th, 2010.


    The sprawling penthouse Justin was staying in while staying close to the heartbeat of his city, had been specifically adjusted to keep the outside world away tonight. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed the city''s nighttime skyline, the faint hum of life below muffled by the penthouse''s soundproofing. Tonight, the usual hum of business, strategy, and ambition was replaced with something far simpler - an evening of relaxation among the closest members of Justin''s inner circle.


    The kitchen at the center of the open floor plan was a curious blend of high-tech and homey, and barely ever used. Justin hardly had any need to do something so pedestrian as cooking.


    Yelena and Eileen moved with surprising ease and familiarity around the kitchen, neither woman was someone that you''d expect to see play homemaker.


    Eileen, dressed more comfortably then she usually did as Phantazia, in simple slacks, a off-white blouse and an apron that said - kiss the cook and die - leaned over the stove, stirring a sauce that filled the air with a rich, savory aroma. Beside her, Yelena was chopping vegetables with a precision that spoke to both her assassin training and her determination to prove herself as the chef of the evening.


    She took everything she did seriously, and even the slicing of vegetables was a task she was utterly focused on, her hair hanging loose, framing her face as she had dressed down for the occasion in a simple shorts and t-shirt combo.


    The fact it was a New York Hammers shirt wasn''t commented on by anyone.


    A shared shame they all had for failing to keep their boss from buying and renaming a sports franchise a few months back.


    "I swear, Yelena, you''re about to slice your finger off with how fast you''re going," Domino called from her spot on the plush couch, a glass of red wine balanced precariously on her knee. She lounged with the casual ease of someone who knew she was among family and had absolutely no worries.


    Yelena didn''t look up, her lips curling into a mischievous grin. "If I lose a finger and it somehow doesn''t just grow back, I''ll just use it to guilt-trip Justin into cooking for us next time, since he''s the one who wanted a home cooked meal." The ten rings rested tightly against her forearms as she continued chopping away.


    Justin, sitting in an armchair across from Domino with his own glass of wine, snorted softly. "Don''t count on it. My skills are best used elsewhere."


    Domino smirked, swirling her glass. "Oh, we know. But I''m pretty sure your ''skills'' are non-existent, and you hate being bad at something, and that''s why you''d really refuse. Eileen, sweetie, back me up here."


    Eileen glanced over her shoulder, her expression one of practiced calm, though the faintest hint of amusement danced in her eyes. "Don''t be ridiculous darling, Justin isn''t bad at anything, I''m pretty sure that''s heretic to say actually,  I''ll miss you when you''re burnt at the stake, Dom."


    Domino only gave her the finger, before spilling all her wine on herself as she apparently had a ''random'' muscle twitch.


    "Hey," Justin protested, though his tone was more amused than offended at Eileen''s teasing. "No using the church of Hammer against me, I don''t control those nutjobs." He gave them all a faux stern glare, "Also, no work talk tonight¡­"


    Domino casually took her pajamas off and sat in the nude, giving Eileen a challenging look, and Justin rubbed his forehead, "And none of that¡­ Domino put some clothes on."


    "No work tonight, yeah? We''re all completely off the clock?" Domino asked sweetly, pouring herself another glass.


    "Yeeees?" Justin drawled out slowly.


    Domino shrugged, her breasts bouncing slightly, "Then I don''t have to do as you say, cheers!" She lifted her wine glass mockingly.


    Eileen let out a very loud sigh, but there was a smile on her face to go with her slightly pink cheeks as she checked on the meat, basting it with butter and herbs.


    Yelena paused in her chopping to look over her shoulder, an eyebrow raised in mock disbelief. "You expected differently from Dom? How many glasses have you had, Justin?"


    Domino burst out laughing, nearly spilling her wine, again. "She''s got you there, not-my-boss-tonight."


    Justin leaned back in his chair, taking a leisurely sip of his drink. "I''m glad I brought you all here tonight. Really warms my heart to see how much you all value me."


    "Don''t worry, Justin," Eileen said smoothly, turning back to her sauces to give them another stir. "We value you. The amount of teasing depends on what you''re offering, mister Trillionaire." She added impishly, sharing an amused look with Domino.


    The room filled with lighthearted laughter, the kind that came easily among people who had been through more than their fair share of chaos together. Yelena finished chopping and carried her cutting board over to Eileen, dumping the vegetables into a sizzling pan. The two worked in comfortable silence for a moment before Yelena broke it.


    "You know," She began, her tone deliberately casual, "This isn''t so bad. Cooking together. Feels¡­ Normal. Maybe we can make it a regular thing?"


    Domino leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand as she grinned, uncaring about her nudeness. "Look at you, getting all sentimental on us. Careful, ''lena. You might actually seduce me, and then where will we be?"


    Yelena shot her a mock glare. "I tolerate you. Barely."


    "Dom, don''t make me spank you¡­" Eileen warned, her lips quirked in a half smile. Like she couldn''t make up her mind on whether to smile, or frown.


    "That''s the spirit," Domino said, raising her glass in a mock toast.


    Justin chuckled, watching the exchange with quiet amusement. It wasn''t often they all had the chance to unwind like this. The pressures of world domination, alien invasions, a global business empire, and the endless logistics therein, didn''t leave much room for evenings like this. But tonight, it was just them. No plans, no power plays, just a group of people who had found themselves at the center of the most powerful empire on the planet.


    Once the holdovers stopped being whiny bitches, it would be the Empire.


    Yelena and Eileen worked together like a well-oiled machine as the cooking began entering the home stretch, the sounds of chopping, sizzling, and stirring filling the kitchen. The smell of garlic, herbs, and roasted vegetables wafted through the air, mingling with the faint scent of rosy wine everyone was drinking.


    Domino tilted her head, watching them with a curious lazy expression. "You know, this feels like one of those sitcom families. The overachieving older sister," She gestured at Eileen, "The bratty but lovable younger sister," she nodded toward Yelena, "And the long-suffering dad." Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she looked at Justin.


    Eileen chuckled lightly, "That would be highly incestuous since I''m the only one here he hasn''t slept with." She pointed out.


    If Justin wasn''t currently dealing with way too many pregnancies, he might have used that to segue into completing the set.


    "Yet." Domino pointed out teasingly.


    Eileen pointed a spatula at her threateningly, "No chance, I''m a one woman kind of gal at the moment as you well know."


    Domino made a heart with her fingers, making Eileen laugh, before she shook her head and returned to what she was doing.


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his lips twitching in amusement, Domino and Eileen were hardly being subtle. "And you''re¡­ What? The quirky  aunt of questionable sexuality who drinks too much?" He asked Domino, bringing it back to what she''d said.


    Domino grinned. "Exactly."


    Yelena snorted, setting down the pan she''d been holding. "You''re not quirky. You''re just annoying."


    "And you''re not even part of the original group," Domino shot back, her tone teasing. "So maybe pipe down, new girl."


    Yelena''s jaw dropped, and she spun around to face Domino, her hands on her hips. "Not part of the original group? Excuse me? I''ve been here long enough to earn my spot."


    Thankfully for Yelena''s self respect none of them made the obvious joke.


    "Long enough, sure," Domino said, leaning back against the couch with a smug grin. "But OG? Nah. That''s me, Justin, and Eileen. You''re just the plucky newcomer."


    Yelena pouted, crossing her arms. "I''m not plucky."


    "See? Only someone plucky would say that," Domino said, winking.


    Eileen''s lips twitched as she tried to suppress a smile. "Be careful, Dom. If you push her too far, you might find yourself at the wrong end of one of those knives."


    "Please," Yelena said, rolling her eyes. "I''d never waste a perfectly good knife on her."


    Mostly because if someone really tried to stab Domino they''d probably just end up stabbing themselves.


    The banter continued as they finished cooking, Yelena and Eileen grabbing the food while Justin and Domino set the table. The dining area, with its panoramic view of the city, was the perfect backdrop for their meal. They sat down together, the table filled with steaming dishes that looked as good as they smelled.


    "Alright," Justin said, raising his glass. "A toast. To¡­ Whatever this is. A day of relaxation¡­"


    "To family," Domino said, her voice uncharacteristically sincere.


    "To all of us being the original group," Yelena added, giving Domino a challenging look.


    Eileen inclined her head. "To reaching all the way to dinner with only one person losing their clothes." She toasted dryly.


    They clinked their glasses together, the sound ringing softly in the warm, relaxed atmosphere. For a moment, everything felt perfect - no enemies, no wars, no schemes. Just them.


    As they began to eat, the conversation flowed easily, moving from lighthearted teasing to more personal topics. Justin found himself smiling more than he had in weeks, genuinely enjoying the company of the people who had become his closest allies - and, in many ways, his family.


    As much as he''d never really intended to find one quite like it.


    The meal was nearly finished, and the wine was flowing freely when Domino leaned back in her chair, her grin turning wicked. She swirled her glass lazily, her eyes flicking between Justin and Yelena.


    "So," She began, her tone deliberately casual, "Justin, did you tell Yelena you knocked her up yet?"


    The room went still. Yelena, mid-sip of her wine, choked violently, nearly spitting it out as her eyes widened in shock. "What!?"


    Justin groaned, dragging a hand down his face as Domino burst into laughter. "Really, Domino? You couldn''t wait until after dessert?"


    Yelena''s wide eyes darted from Justin to Domino and back again, her hands trembling slightly as she set her wine glass down on the table with a soft clink. The atmosphere in the room shifted palpably, the warmth of their earlier banter replaced by a heavy, almost tangible tension. Her breath caught, the air in her lungs refusing to move as the words hung over her like a storm cloud.


    "What did she just say?" She asked, her voice trembling between disbelief and cautious hope. Her gaze was locked on Justin now, searching his face for any sign that Domino''s words were some cruel joke.


    Domino, entirely unrepentant, leaned back in her chair with a smug grin, dodging a swipe from Eileen. She swirled her wine lazily, the picture of casual mischief. "Honestly, you should be thanking me for breaking the news in the most entertaining way possible."


    Yelena ignored her, her attention solely on Justin. "Is this true?" She demanded, her voice sharp and rising in pitch. Her eyes shimmered faintly under the warm light, betraying the storm of emotions building inside her. "Am I -" She hesitated, swallowing hard before continuing, " - am I pregnant?"


    Justin sighed, setting his glass down on the table. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the surface as he met her gaze. His expression was carefully measured, the usual cocky smirk replaced by something softer. "Yeah," He admitted finally, his tone calm but carrying an undertone of sympathy. "You are."


    Yelena blinked, her lips parting slightly in shock. For a moment, it seemed like she might say something, but the words didn''t come. Her hand moved instinctively to her stomach, her fingers brushing over it as if expecting to feel some sign of change beneath her skin. "I¡­ I don''t know what to say," She murmured, her voice almost inaudible. Her breath hitched, and she let out a shaky laugh. "Justin, I''m not even sure I know how to be a mom."


    Domino let out an exaggerated sigh, propping her chin on her hand. "Oh, please, ''lena. If you can handle assassins, espionage, and whatever other insanity Justin throws your way, you can handle one tiny baby."


    Eileen, chimed in smoothly, her tone calm but laced with a faint edge. "Domino''s right, although as subtle as a particularly dim brick as usual. You already have the skill set. Quick reflexes, sharp instincts, time spent taking care of a giant baby who can''t take no for an answer - sounds like you''re more than qualified."


    Yelena shot them both a glare, though her expression lacked any venom. "You two are so helpful," She muttered, though the corners of her lips twitched despite herself.


    "Just doing our part," Domino said brightly, wincing as Eileen''s nails dug into her thigh.


    Justin cleared his throat, drawing Yelena''s focus back to him. His expression was serious now, his voice steady as he addressed her. "Look, Yelena, I''m going to be straight with you. I''m not exactly father-of-the-year material. Hell, I didn''t even think I''d ever be in this position. But you''re mine." He leaned forward slightly, his gaze locking onto hers with an intensity that left no room for doubt. "And I take care of what''s mine. Always. You''re not going to be sidelined or abandoned because of this... Divine parasite."


    Yelena let out a startled laugh, half disbelief and half amusement. "Divine parasite?" She repeated, raising an eyebrow. "How romantic."


    Justin smirked faintly, though his voice softened as he continued. "You know what I mean. I''m not going to let you do this alone, and I''m sure as hell not going to let anything happen to you or sideline you."


    He stood by what he said though. He''d ensure they had everything they could ever need, but he had neither the time nor the wish to play house.


    Yelena''s eyes flicked back to her stomach, her hand unconsciously settling there again. For a moment, her walls cracked, and the vulnerability she so carefully hid slipped through. "I don''t even know where to start," She admitted quietly. "I''ve never... I mean, what if I mess this up?"


    Justin kept quiet, knowing not to be hIs usual domineering self, Yelena had just found out about her mom, and now this¡­


    It probably wouldn''t help to mention how many kids he had on the way so it wouldn''t matter if a couple were raised to be fuck ups.


    Eileen reached over, placing a reassuring hand on Yelena''s arm. "You won''t," She said simply, her voice steady. "You''re tougher than you think. And you''ve got us."


    Domino grinned, leaning forward to clink her glass against Yelena''s untouched one. "Yeah, we''ll make sure you don''t screw it up too badly. Besides, I''m pretty sure this kid''s going to inherit some serious badass genes."


    Yelena groaned, covering her face with her hands. "You''re not going to let me live this episode of panic down, are you?"


    "Not a chance," Domino replied cheerfully, taking another sip of her wine. "It''s because we love you."


    Justin leaned back in his chair, watching the dynamic between the women shift and flow with a faint smile. Despite the unexpected turn of events, there was something comforting about the way they rallied around Yelena.


    "Domino''s right," Justin said, earning a startled look from the woman in question. "Not about the teasing part - though I''m sure she''ll milk that for all it''s worth. But about you not doing this alone. You''ve got us. And if nothing else, you''ve got me."


    Yelena lowered her hands, her expression softening. "You mean that?"


    Justin nodded. "I do. You''re part of this family, Yelena. Things might get messy, but we''ll figure it out."


    Eileen raised her glass, her calm demeanor giving way to a rare honest smile. "To divine parasites and unexpected blessings."


    Domino laughed, holding up her glass as well. "Hear, hear! And to Yelena, the soon-to-be badass mom of the year."


    Yelena rolled her eyes, though a faint blush crept across her cheeks. "You''re all insufferable."


    "Maybe," Domino said, grinning, "but you love us anyway."


    It was an idyllic scene,


    At least until Domino told Yelena about the many, many others.


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, March 8th, 2010.


    Justin sat at his desk in his personal office,


    Phantazia sat in front of him to his right, her tablet glowing softly as she scrolled through reports, her demeanor calm and poised. In front of him on his left, Newly inaugurated President Sunil leaned forward slightly, an amused glint in his eyes as he prepared to present the results of a poll that apparently had Hammer Industries in a titter.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, swirling a glass of water idly in one hand. "Alright, Sunil, hit me with it. What''s the biggest breakthrough of Hammer Industries, according to our adoring public?"


    Sunil tapped a control on the table, and a hologram of a bar graph sprang to life above the polished surface. The top result glowed in bold letters - Grocery Delivery.


    The business he''d created his version of Uber for, just as much as for the rideshare market.


    Justin''s eyebrows shot up, his expression a mix of disbelief and skepticism. "You''re telling me grocery delivery is the biggest improvement voted on by a global audience? Ahead of clean energy, all the tech advancements, and - oh, I don''t know - Panacea, the cure for every disease known to man?"


    Phantazia smirked but kept her gaze on her tablet, clearly entertained by his reaction. Sunil, ever unflappable, gave a slight shrug. "Yes, sir. Over forty million votes were cast. Grocery delivery won by a considerable margin."


    Justin scoffed, leaning forward and pointing at the hologram. "This doesn''t make sense. We only have the service running at full capacity  in North America and a handful of European countries at this point. How does it win a global vote? Do people even know what Panacea does?"


    "They do," Phantazia said, finally looking up from her tablet. Her expression tinged with amusement. "But apparently, the idea of shopping from their couch is more exciting than eradicating disease."


    "People who don''t even have access to it yet are still thrilled by the possibility," Sunil added calmly, as if that explained everything.


    Justin groaned, rubbing his temples. "So, let me get this straight. People are so excited about never having to set foot in an actual store again that they''re willing to push aside the idea of curing all diseases as the top advancement of the last decade? This is what we''re dealing with?"


    "Yes," Phantazia confirmed, her lips quirking into a faint smile.


    "No wonder there''s hardly a single rebellion to this world domination thing," Justin muttered under his breath, shaking his head. "The bar is so low, it''s practically subterranean."


    Not to say there weren''t rebellions,


    China and Russia were still fighting back. Badly. And the whole of the Middle East was iffy at best, not a lot of Hammer worshippers there for some reason.


    Sunil cleared his throat, redirecting the conversation. "Be that as it may, this data provides us with valuable insight into public priorities. We should leverage this enthusiasm as we roll out additional services worldwide."


    Justin threw his hands up. "Fine, but let''s focus on the big stuff at the same time. Grocery delivery can roll out on the side while we ensure people have power, clean water, and infrastructure that won''t collapse under its own weight. What''s our timeline on arc reactors for global clean energy?"


    The world was his, he would reshape everything with a global infrastructure program. But he needed the energy for it first.


    Phantazia adjusted her tablet, bringing up a hologram of the Earth with glowing dots marking current and planned arc reactor installations. The map spun slowly, revealing clusters of activity in major cities across North America, Europe, and Asia. "We''re currently operational in thirty-two locations worldwide," she began, her tone professional. "That already accounts for approximately 11% of the global population''s energy needs. Our next phase involves expanding to underserved regions in Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia."You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    The Middle East was going to be a problem soon, Justin thought, seeing that they weren''t even on the plan for this. The situation was too volatile.


    Funnily enough they weren''t overly concerned with Panacea or clean energy, despite being oil nations. In this case, the church of Hammer and its insistence about his divinity was the major issue.


    At least the Vatican wasn''t being bitches about it.


    Sunil leaned forward, gesturing to the map. "The logistics are complex, but we''ve streamlined the process by standardizing the construction of smaller arc reactors. These will serve rural and remote areas over great distances, while the larger ones handle urban centers and their surroundings."


    Justin nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Good. I want full coverage - no exceptions. What''s the estimated timeline for completing the global rollout?"


    The smaller reactors would have to be expanded or replaced as the world grew - but for now speed was more important.


    Phantazia tapped her tablet, and new data appeared. "At our current pace, we can achieve 70% coverage within five years and 100% within seven. That assumes no significant delays."


    Justin frowned. "Seven years feels too long. What''s holding us back?"


    "Resource allocation and skilled labor," Sunil explained. "Even with Hammer Industries'' resources, constructing and maintaining these facilities requires trained personnel. We''re already operating at maximum capacity in terms of recruitment and training."


    Justin drummed his fingers on the table, his mind racing. "Double the training programs. Pull people from other industries if you have to. I don''t care if we have to train bricklayers to build these reactors - we need them operational faster. Use the prison reeducation programs too."


    Phantazia arched an eyebrow but nodded. "Understood. I''ll work with Nail to adjust the training schedules and optimize deployment."


    Justin leaned back, his eyes on the spinning globe. "Good. Clean energy for everyone. No excuses, no delays."


    His other projects needed the energy to work,  so it was vital they put the arc reactor installations going at highest possible speed.


    "Alright, what about clean water?" Justin asked, shifting his focus. "We''re not letting anyone go thirsty on my watch, they won''t be as productive if they''re worrying about water."


    Phantazia brought up another hologram, this one displaying water purification facilities and desalination plants. "We''ve made significant progress in areas with existing infrastructure," She said. "Arc reactor plants double as water purification hubs in several regions, but rural areas remain a challenge."


    Sunil nodded in agreement. "The issue is less about purification and more about distribution. In remote areas, there''s often no existing pipeline or delivery system to work with."


    Justin''s brow furrowed. "So build one."


    "It''s not that simple," Phantazia interjected. "We''re talking about thousands of miles of pipelines, reservoirs, and pumping stations. It''s a massive undertaking."


    It was already underway in Africa, but it would be years to be finished, and despite popular opinion, Africa was far from the only place dealing with poor access to clean water.


    Justin sighed, running a hand through his hair. "What''s the timeline?"


    "Ten years for full global coverage," Phantazia replied. "Assuming no interruptions."


    "Unacceptable," Justin snapped. "We''re not making people wait a decade for clean water. What''s the bottleneck?"


    "Materials and labor, mostly, as always," Sunil said. "But we''ve already begun exploring alternatives, such as modular purification units that can be deployed in remote areas without relying on piping."


    Justin''s eyes lit up. "That''s more like it. Scale that up. Use the resources we have, put Forge and Doctor Octavius on cooking up something that will expedite the process. I''m not going to be held back by something like access to water!"


    Phantazia made a note on her tablet. "We''ll prioritize modular units and repurposed infrastructure. With those adjustments, we could cut the timeline to five years, more if Forge and Doctor Octavius bring me something revolutionary."


    "Better," Justin said, his tone firm. "Make it happen."


    Moving on, Sunil pulled up a new set of holograms, this one showing roads, bridges, and other critical infrastructure projects as well as the planned retooling of major cities. "With the Hammer Federation in place, we''re focusing, as planned, on rebuilding and modernizing infrastructure across the globe. This includes high-speed global rail networks, and smart cities."


    Justin studied the projections, his mind already running through the logistics. "How long until we''ve got a global high-speed rail network?"


    "Seven years for primary routes," Sunil replied. "Secondary and tertiary lines will take another three to five years."


    Justin grimaced. "I want those numbers cut in half. Can we use drones or automated systems to speed up construction?"


    With how much he needed human hands in the more sensitive projects, he couldn''t afford to divert even more people. His construction company had already ballooned into one of the largest employers globally - there weren''t enough humans to cover everything he wanted to get done.


    Not on the timeline he was shooting for.


    "We can," Phantazia said, a warning note in her tone, "But there''s a limit to how much automation can replace human oversight. Quality control is critical for projects of this scale."


    Justin nodded reluctantly. "Fine. Double the workforce if you have to and match that with automation. Source people from the poorest countries, hoover them up, force them if necessary, recruit globally - whatever it takes."


    Phantazia made another note. "Understood. We''ll adjust the projections accordingly."


    Finally, Justin turned his attention to the hologram of the moon, where Hammer Industries'' new bases glowed faintly. "Let''s talk about the space fleet," He said, leaning forward. "Now that we''ve got access to global resources and fully operational moon bases, I want timelines for building the fleet."


    Phantazia swiped her tablet, bringing up a detailed schematic of proposed spacecraft designs. "The good news is that the moon bases provide a steady supply of research materials. The bad news is that building and launching a fleet of this size requires massive coordination between Earth and lunar operations."


    Sunil added, "We''ve already begun assembling the first prototypes for testing on Earth, but lack the space dock capabilities to truly build a functional fleet. At the current pace, we''ll have a test fleet of five scout ships within five years." He pursed his lips, "The wait for Asgard to contribute is slowing down construction as we need an interstellar ship to examine.."


    Justin raised an eyebrow. "Just five?" He scratched his chin, "Asgard is not under our control, but we can speed up the work on a space dock¡­ I''ll deal with Pym Industries."


    With Pym Particles not held back, they could get a working space dock around Earth''s orbit in no time. Which would speed up the timeline of the fleet build. And push them past scout ships to battle cruisers.


    "Each ship represents a massive investment in time and resources," Sunil cautioned. "If you wish to speed up the production of the space dock, it might be wise to halt ship production."


    Justin considered this, his mind racing. "Double the production rate of dock components, I''ll get the particles flowing, resources doesn''t matter, continue the ship builds, our people need something to train on."


    Phantazia hesitated. "There''s also the matter of training the crew. These ships will require highly specialized personnel, even if you intend to utilize Sentinels to start with."


    "Start recruiting immediately from NATO Navies and Air Forces," Justin ordered. "And if there''s a shortage of qualified candidates, grab jarheads too and train them via the education pods. We''re not putting this off."


    With Shaw Industries now under his control, he had the steel to push forward, the Arc Reactors were already in place to help transform it into a more durable energy ablative material. If they could crack the Pym particles - production rates would blow their timeline out of the water.


    Nothing like having someone work on a miniature piece of treated steel and then making that small piece a hundred times its size after finishing with the fiddly bits to speed up a build.


    Starfighters created entirely in miniature with almost no resources by robotic precision and then resized to a full blown ship¡­


    Pym Particles were going to put Earth on the map.


    <hr>


    The next day, Hammerhaven.


    The air in the lower levels of Hammerhaven felt cold and sterile, humming faintly with the energy of security fields and reinforced steel. It wasn''t a place Justin visited often, preferring the luxury and efficiency of his upper offices. But today, he had a purpose. His polished leather shoes echoed down the corridor as he made his way toward one of the more secure cells.


    He stepped through the reinforced doorway into a chamber that seemed equal parts interrogation room and high-tech kennel. Inside, Hela was perched casually on a steel bench, her long legs crossed and her face lit with an expression of absolute glee. In her hand, she held the end of a leash - a glowing teched out chain that connected to a collar fitted tightly around Nebula''s neck. The blue-skinned cyborg glared at her captor, her body stiff with barely contained rage. A muzzle clamped over her mouth ensured her silence, though her eyes burned with defiance.


    "Hela," Justin said smoothly as he stepped inside, his tone calm but laced with authority as he knew she wouldn''t respond to anything else. "I see you''re keeping busy with your cute little pet."


    Which was all for the better. It''s why he''d given her over.


    Hela looked up, her grin widening into something wolfish. She gave the leash a playful tug, forcing Nebula to stumble forward slightly on her knees. "Busy? Oh, Justin, you have no idea how much fun I''m having. Isn''t that right, my little pet?" Her voice dipped into a saccharine, baby-talk tone as she leaned toward Nebula, her eyes sparkling with mock affection. "Yes, you''re such a good little pet, aren''t you? Soon, we''ll make you the terror of the stars again. But this time, you''ll do it my way."


    Nebula growled low in her throat, the sound muffled by the muzzle. Her mechanical hands clenched into fists, the servos whining under the strain. Hela laughed, delighted by the resistance. She tugged the leash again, a spark of electricity electrocuting Nebula painfully, Hela tilting her head like she was speaking to a particularly stubborn puppy. "Oh, don''t be like that, pet. You''ll get used to it. Who knows, you might even enjoy it!"


    Justin watched the interaction with a mix of amusement and exasperation. Hela''s antics could be entertaining, sure, but there was a reason he was here. He cleared his throat, drawing her attention.


    "We need to talk," He said, gesturing toward the bench. "Mind if I join you?"


    Hela raised an eyebrow but scooted over, patting the seat beside her with exaggerated politeness. "Of course, my dear Emperor-to-be. Sit. Let us discuss your grand plans while I keep my little pet occupied." She casually stretched a foot out for Nebula to nuzzle.


    Justin took the offered seat, his gaze briefly flicking to Nebula, who was still kneeling on the floor, her glare unwavering even as she reluctantly leaned forward to brush her face against Hela''s foot. He leaned back, folding his hands in his lap. "I wanted to go over the details of what''s next for you."


    "Oh?" Hela''s grin sharpened. "Do tell. I''ve been dying to hear how you plan to use my particular talents."


    Justin smirked faintly. "Asgard''s promised us a spaceship - a big one, loaded with technology our scientists are already drooling over. Once we''ve extracted every scrap of knowledge from it, I''m planning to put it to good use."


    Hela''s eyes gleamed, her interest piqued. "And what, pray tell, is ''good use''?"


    Justin''s tone was casual, almost nonchalant, as he explained. "I want you to take that ship and make a name for yourself out there. Cause chaos. Be the universe''s problem for a while." And not his¡­


    Hela''s grin spread into something feral, her fingers tightening on Nebula''s leash. "You want me to be a ~pirate."


    Justin shrugged. "Call it what you want. Pirate, conqueror, interstellar pain in the ass - I don''t care. The point is, I need you out there, stirring things up, making people too busy dealing with you to look too closely at Earth."


    Hela''s laugh was low and throaty, filled with genuine delight. "Oh, Justin, you spoil me. Chaos is what I do best." She turned her attention back to Nebula, her grin softening into that same mock affection. "Hear that, pet? We''re going to be pirates. You''ll be the most fearsome little mascot in the galaxy - just think of all the new places you can pee on to mark your territory."


    Nebula snarled, straining against the leash, but the collar''s failsafe mechanisms activated, sending another sharp jolt of energy through her body. She froze, her muscles locking up momentarily before she slumped back onto her knees, breathing heavily.


    "Play nice, Nebula," Justin said mildly, his gaze never leaving Hela. "She''s not going to bite you. Probably."


    He knew she''d do much worse. But if it kept Hela busy, he didn''t overly care much. It was a daughter of Thanos - she was expendable to him once she was fully pumped of information.


    Hela chuckled, clearly enjoying every second of Nebula''s discomfort. "She''ll learn," She said breezily. "It''s only a matter of time before she realizes how much fun this will be. Isn''t that right, my little darling?" She reached out, patting Nebula''s head like a dog.


    Justin''s lips twitched in amusement, though his mind remained focused on the larger picture. Hela was a force of nature, raw and untamed. She thrived on conflict and conquest, and keeping her cooped up on Earth was a recipe for disaster. Right now, his priority was building the world up, stabilizing it under his rule. He didn''t have room for someone like Hela to run wild in his backyard.


    Sending her into the stars wasn''t just a strategic move - it was a necessity. If she didn''t have an outlet for her destructive tendencies, she''d find one. And that wasn''t a risk Justin was willing to take.


    The fact she''d also draw attention to herself was just a bonus, hopefully the likes of the Kree etc, would focus on the mad goddess instead of Earth.


    "You''ll have free reign," He continued, his tone measured. "Take the ship, recruit whoever you want, take Magneto''s left overs for all I care, and do what you do best. Just keep it far enough away from Earth that I don''t have to clean up after you."


    Hela''s eyes narrowed slightly, a calculating glint in them. "And what do I get out of this, other than the sheer joy of destruction?"


    Justin smiled faintly. "Glory. Power. Whatever loot you can carry. And the satisfaction of knowing you''re still the most dangerous woman in the universe."


    Hela considered this, her grin returning. "It''s a tempting offer, Justin. Very tempting."


    "It''s not an offer," Justin said simply. "It''s your job."


    Her laughter rang out, sharp and unrestrained. "Fair enough. Consider me on board."


    Justin nodded, satisfied. He rose to his feet, brushing imaginary dust from his suit. "Good. I''ll let you get back to¡­ Whatever this is." He gestured vaguely toward Nebula, who was glaring daggers at both of them.


    "Oh, this?" Hela said, tugging the leash to make Nebula shuffle forward. "This is just a bit of fun. Training my little pet here to be the perfect little mascot/sexpet." She smiled naughtily, "Before we leave, I''ll show you everything she''s learned¡­"


    Justin shook his head, a small smirk playing on his lips. "Just don''t break her fully yet. We still need her mind intact for intel on Thanos."


    "Don''t worry," Hela purred, her voice dripping with amusement. "I''ll take good care of her."


    As Justin turned to leave, he couldn''t help but think how much simpler his life would be with Hela wreaking havoc far away from Earth. It wasn''t a permanent solution, but for now, it would keep her busy - and keep the universe on its toes.


    If only Asgard would hurry up and get him a ship¡­


    If Thor was dragging his feet on this he might have to talk to Freiya about the benefits of a hard spanking¡­


    <hr>


    That night, Mirror Dimension.


    The Mirror Dimension seemed to stretch endlessly in kaleidoscopic patterns of light and shadow, its fractured beauty a testament to the malleability of space and time within its borders. Justin strode through the surreal landscape a gleam of cruel pleasure in his eyes. Behind him walked Forge, a mechanical gauntlet gleaming with faint blue energy on his arm, and Kaecillius, the jailor of this part of reality, whose quiet presence radiated a mix of reverence and menace.


    "You''re absolutely sure this is going to work?" Justin asked, his voice cutting through the stillness of the dimension. He didn''t look back, his gaze focused on the shimmering pathway ahead. "Losing this power would be¡­ Annoying."


    Forge''s smirk was one of pure confidence as he held up the gauntlet, its intricate design humming faintly with energy. "It''ll work. I''ve already mastered how to remove powers safely. Adding them back was just a matter of reverse-engineering the process."


    Justin gave a short nod, though his expression remained skeptical. "Good. I''ve got an empire to build. The last thing I need is complications from this little experiment - we can''t afford to lose such exquisite powers."


    Kaecillius led them further, his pace measured and deliberate. The screams of Nathaniel Essex - Sinister - echoed faintly through the dimension. Justin''s lip curled in satisfaction at the sound. Kaecillius gestured toward the source of the noise as they passed, his tone calm but laced with dark amusement.


    "He continues to resist, my Lord," Kaecillius said, his head bowing slightly. "But the Extremis enhancements are ensuring that his resistance only prolongs his suffering."


    Justin allowed himself a fleeting moment of pleasure at the thought. Sinister''s sins had been many, and his punishment was as fitting as it was eternal. "Good," He said coldly. "Keep it that way. A lesson for anyone who dares to think they can cross me."


    Not that everyone necessarily believed it. But Justin had spread the word in the criminal underworld, making sure people knew eternal suffering awaited those who touched what was his.


    It wouldn''t deter everyone, but even one person stepping back from doing something damaging was a win.


    As they moved deeper into the dimension, another sound reached them - lower, rougher, and tinged with agony. The Mandarin''s voice carried through the distorted air, his screams a melody of torment. Justin glanced toward Kaecillius, his expression sharp with curiosity.


    "And our other guest?" Justin asked, a vicious grin tugging at the corners of his mouth.


    Kaecillius inclined his head, his tone deferential. "Very well, my Lord. We have begun with the traditional ancient chinese torture methods you suggested. It has been¡­ instructive."


    Justin chuckled, the sound low and satisfied. The Mandarin, once a figure of arrogance and cruelty, was now reduced to nothing more than a pitiful spectacle. Justice was served in layers, and Justin relished every one.


    They arrived at their destination - a stark, illuminated chamber within the endless folds of the dimension. At its center sat Erik Lehnsherr, the infamous Magneto, held upright by restraints that cradled his limbless form. His face was pale, his eyes hollow, and his body broken. Despite the state of his flesh, there was still a quiet dignity in the way he held himself, as though defiance lingered just beneath the surface.


    Justin stepped forward, his hands casually tucked into his pockets. He looked down at Magneto with a mixture of curiosity and coldness. "It''s finally time," He said, his tone even. "Any last words? Maybe something for your old friend Xavier?"


    Magneto''s tired eyes lifted to meet Justin''s. For a moment, the silence between them was heavy with unspoken truths. Then, with a slow exhale, Magneto closed his eyes.


    "Mutants'' rights are safeguarded in your empire?" He asked quietly, his voice steady despite the weariness that clung to him.


    "Yes," Justin replied without hesitation.


    Because why on earth would he abuse such useful pawns¡­


    Magneto nodded faintly, a ghost of a smile tugging at his lips. "Then I am content. Do it."


    Justin turned to Forge and gave a brief nod. The inventor stepped forward, his gauntlet glowing brighter as he approached Magneto. Forge hesitated for only a moment before placing his mechanical hand on Magneto''s head, the device humming as it initialized the extraction process.


    The pain began immediately.


    Magneto''s body tensed, his face contorting as his mutant abilities were forcibly ripped from his cells. The room filled with the sound of his strained cries, each one a testament to the immense power that was being severed from his very being. The gauntlet''s gem pulsed with light, growing brighter with every second, the raw energy of Magneto''s powers being contained and stored within its intricate mechanisms.


    Justin watched impassively, his eyes cold as they followed every twitch and shudder of Magneto''s failing body. There was no pleasure in the sight, only the detached efficiency of a man carrying out a necessary task.


    Magneto might not have been guilty of being a willing part of the events that took Hope from him, the man having been mind controlled - so he didn''t take any particular pleasure in his death. But neither was he willing to let him live because he had been part of the reason.


    The process took less than five minutes, and by the end of it, Magneto was slumped in his restraints, his breathing shallow and uneven. The faint hum of the gauntlet faded, its gem now glowing with the concentrated essence of Magneto''s abilities. Forge stepped back, checking the device with a practiced eye.


    "It''s done," Forge said simply. "The power is contained. Transfer-ready whenever you want."


    Magneto''s head lolled to the side, his eyes half-open and unfocused. He was barely clinging to life, his body so intertwined with his powers that their removal had drained him of everything, not even Extremis would have neen capable of saving him in time. Moments later he drew his final breath as they all just watched him.


    Justin stepped closer, his expression unreadable. "Send his body to Xavier," He instructed Kaecillius. "Let the old man bury him. Consider it a token of¡­ Respect."


    Kaecillius bowed slightly, his hands moving in fluid motions to summon a portal. The shimmering gateway opened, revealing the solemn grounds of the Xavier estate. Magneto''s lifeless body was gently unshackled and floated through the portal, disappearing into the care of his former ally.


    Justin''s lips twitched at the idea one of his students was just going to run into Magneto''s corpse on the lawn.


    Justin turned to Forge, his gaze settling on the gauntlet with quiet satisfaction. "Good work," He said. "I''ll let you know when it''s time to put this power to use."


    Forge smirked, securing the gauntlet to his wrist with a proud flourish. "You got it. This baby''s ready whenever you are."


    Justin created a portal with a flick of his wrist, the swirling energy framing a path back to the heart of his empire. He stepped through without hesitation, Forge close behind him. Magneto''s legacy was now his to wield, a weapon stripped of sentiment and repurposed for the future.


    As the portal closed behind them, the Mirror Dimension fell silent once more except for the eternal screams of its prisoners, its secrets and horrors left to churn in its infinite folds.


    <hr>


    March 18th, Africa,


    The meeting room they were in, overlooked the sprawling space launch facility he had built in Africa. The glass walls framed a view of cutting-edge technology: towering scaffolding, spacecraft ready to carry the modules under construction, and thousands of workers moving with precise coordination.


    Inside, Justin sat at the head of the conference table, his posture relaxed but exuding authority. His sharp gaze was fixed on the entrance, waiting for the arrival of his next guest. Beside him, Tony Stark sat pale-faced, his usual swagger muted as he idly bounced a small stress ball against the edge of the table. Despite his best attempt at indifference, the tension in the room was palpable.


    The doors slid open with a soft hiss, and Darren Cross entered, his sharp suit doing little to mask the nervous energy emanating from him. His gaze flicked briefly to Justin, then to Tony, before settling on the breathtaking view behind them. For a moment, he paused, perhaps imagining himself at the helm of such an operation. But the sight of Justin''s expectant stare snapped him back to reality, and he stepped forward.


    "Mr. Hammer," Cross began, his tone measured but carrying an undertone of unease. "Thank you for inviting me. I assume this is about my future role?"


    Justin gestured to the chair across from him, his expression unreadable. "Sit," He said simply.


    Cross complied, though his movements were stiff, betraying his wariness. He straightened his tie as he sat, his eyes darting between Justin and Tony. Tony caught the look and gave a half-smile, bouncing the stress ball a little faster.


    Justin leaned forward, folding his hands neatly on the table. "Darren, you''ve been a valuable asset." He lied. "Your work on Pym Particles and your dedication to Pym Technologies haven''t gone unnoticed. However, as we move forward, adjustments need to be made."


    Cross''s brow furrowed slightly, his polished demeanor cracking just a fraction. "Adjustments?" He repeated.


    "Yes," Justin replied, his tone cool. "Effective immediately, Tony Stark will be taking over the operations of Pym Industries. Bruce Banner and Dr Hank McCoy will head up the research and development of Pym Particles. You will remain as the titular head of the company, but your role will be strictly advisory."


    The words hit Cross like a physical blow. He stiffened, his jaw tightening as he processed the implications. "I was promised -" He began, his voice rising slightly.


    "You were promised a role," Justin interrupted smoothly. "And you''ll still have one. A very comfortable one, I might add. Riches, influence, the finest luxuries the world has to offer. But operational control? That''s no longer on the table."


    Cross''s face reddened, his composure slipping further. "You also promised I''d join H.A.M.M.E.R. as the new Ant-Man!" He snapped. "And that I''d retain control of Pym Technologies. I''ve delivered on everything you asked. This isn''t what we agreed to."


    Justin''s gaze didn''t waver, his expression as unyielding as stone. "Circumstances have changed," He said simply. "I no longer need you in those positions."


    He almost went with - I am altering the deal, pray I don''t alter it further. But Tony was right there, and he didn''t want to embarass himself.


    He''d planned to use Cross, but plans changed. The Widow inserted in his life had reported too many signs of megalomania and worse¡­ Incompetence.


    Cross shot to his feet, his fists clenched. "This is outrageous!" He spat. "You can''t just strip me of my work, my legacy -"


    Tony, still bouncing the stress ball, quirked an eyebrow. "Wow. Somebody''s upset. You think he''s mad about the title or the fact that nobody''s going to call him a genius anymore?" He lightly mocked. "You haven''t even cracked Pyms work yet, don''t act like a big shot¡­"


    Cross glared at Tony, but before he could respond, a heavy, oppressive energy filled the room. Justin leaned back in his chair, his dominance aura rolling off him in waves. The weight of it pressed down on Cross like an invisible hand, forcing him to his knees. His breaths came in shallow gasps, and a bead of sweat rolled down his temple as he struggled against the force.


    Justin''s voice was calm, almost conversational. "You''re lucky I''m in a generous mood, Darren. I could have stripped you of everything. Instead, I''m offering you a seat at the table. A comfortable life. But only if you stay loyal and obey."


    Cross gritted his teeth, his head bowed under the pressure. "You expect me to thank you for this?" He growled, his voice strained.


    "I expect you to understand your position," Justin replied, his tone unyielding. "Take what''s being offered. It''s more than most people ever dream of. Riches, women, power. You''ll still be in the top one percent of the world. But try to step out of line?" He leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing. "And there won''t be a second chance."


    The aura receded as suddenly as it had appeared, leaving Cross slumped on the floor, gasping for breath. He didn''t dare meet Justin''s gaze as he pushed himself to his feet, his face twisted with humiliation and rage. Without another word, he turned and strode out of the room, his movements stiff with suppressed fury.


    The door closed behind him, and Tony let out a low whistle. "Well, that went about as well as expected. So, do we give it an hour before he starts plotting revenge, or do you think he''s already at it?"


    Justin''s lips curled into a faint smirk. "Oh, he''s not going to listen," He said, his tone almost amused.


    Tony raised an eyebrow. "Then why bother with the song and dance? You know he''s going to try something stupid."


    "Of course he is," Justin said, leaning back in his chair. "But he''s watched. Closely. He can''t access the Pym Particles, only his suit. And that suit is just as easily shut down due to our tampering. If he steps out of line, we''ll deal with him."


    "So what was the point of this?" Tony asked, tossing the stress ball onto the table.


    Justin''s smile widened slightly, though it didn''t reach his eyes. "A test."


    "For him?" Tony asked, his brow furrowing.


    "No," Justin replied, his tone cold and calculated. "For the new ''hero'' who''ll take up the Ant-Man/Wasp mantle. If they succeed in taking him on, Cross''s tantrum will be a footnote. If they fail¡­ Well, that''s why I have contingencies."


    Tony chuckled, shaking his head. "You''re such an asshole."


    Justin''s smirk grew. "Then why are you laughing?"


    Tony didn''t respond, but the faint grin tugging at the corners of his mouth was answer enough.


    They sat in silence for a while, Justin checking up on the progress of the work being done in the facility. Specifically on the defense satellites being built. Eventually he walked over to the windows, standing by the wall and watching his people at work.


    "So," Justin said eventually, breaking the silence, "What''s with the stress ball?" He gestured at Tony''s hand with a tilt of his head, his tone light but curious.


    Tony let out a long sigh, tossing the ball up and catching it again before responding. "Pepper''s pregnant," He admitted, the words tumbling out like they''d been weighing on him for days. "So knowing I''m going to be a dad¡­ I can''t be a dad!" He emphasized the last part with a dramatic shudder. "I mean, come on, Hammer. Me? A dad? It''s ridiculous."


    Justin smirked, leaning one shoulder casually against the wall. "Why not? You''ve got the genius - if barely, the resources, and a good woman who keeps you grounded. What''s the problem?"


    Tony shot him a look, squeezing the stress ball harder. "The problem is I''ve never exactly been¡­ ''dad material.'' I''m the fun uncle at best, the one who shows up with cool gadgets and leaves before the kid pukes. And now, with Obie gone¡­ I don''t even have the old uncle type to teach me how to fake it."


    Justin snorted, shaking his head. "Suck it up, Stark. You''ll manage. Besides¡­" His smirk turned into a frown, his tone turning irritable. "If it makes you feel better, I''m apparently going to be having thirty-eight children. So in a word - suck it up."


    Tony froze mid-squeeze, his jaw dropping as he stared at Justin in a mix of disbelief and horrified awe. "Thirty-eight!? What the fuck did you do?"


    Justin''s eye twitched, his expression flattening. "Apparently, there isn''t any birth control capable of beating divine sperm."


    Tony groaned loudly, slapping a palm down on the table. "Not that again! You''re not a god, Hammer!"


    Justin crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow. "Tell that to my thirty-eight baby mommas."


    Tony shook his head, muttering under his breath as he squeezed the stress ball harder. "Unbelievable. I''m friends with a slut."


    Justin thought that was a bit rich coming from him, his thoughts caught on to what else he''d said too. Justin''s eyebrow arched higher, a dry chuckle escaping his lips. "Friends?" He repeated, his tone faintly teasing. "Did I just hear you admit that we''re friends, Stark?"


    Tony immediately straightened, pointing a finger at him defensively. "I did not say that! You can''t prove a thing."


    Justin''s smirk deepened as he turned slightly. "Nail, replay."


    The holographic avatar of Nail materialized beside them, her usual professional demeanor tinged with an undertone of amusement. "Replaying now, sir," She said cheerfully. A second later, Tony''s voice echoed through the room: ''I''m friends with a slut.''


    Tony groaned, dragging a hand down his face as Justin folded his arms, looking insufferably pleased. "See? Even your AI is against me. I''m surrounded by traitors, not friends."


    Nail tilted her head, her holographic form shimmering as she looked between them. "I believe I was merely following orders, Mr. Stark," She said innocently.


    Tony grumbled to himself, before glancing up at Nail, "Alright, no smooching Jarvis anymore, you''re off the invite list."


    Justin blinked, taken aback and somewhat amused. "You know all you''re doing then is inviting her to sneak in from your metaphorical second story window, right?"


    Nail blinked innocently, a halo appearing over her head.


    Tony groaned again, before waving a hand dismissively. "It''s not dating. It''s advanced AI bonding. Totally platonic. Either way, because she''s bullying me, she''s out."


    Justin gave him a flat look. "Sure, Stark. Keep telling yourself that." Turning to Nail, he added sternly, "When you hack into his systems to hang out with Jarvis, don''t bully him too badly, he''s just a fool in denial."


    Tony ignored Justin, pointing a finger at Nail, "Don''t break into my metaphorical windows or otherwise, I don''t think my insurance covers it."


    Nail''s avatar squirmed slightly, her tone suddenly coy. "Oh¡­ Would doing that make me a bad girl?" She asked, her voice dipping into a playful sing-song.


    Tony sighed heavily, looking upward as though seeking divine intervention. "How is this my life now?"


    Justin smirked, watching the interaction with unabashed amusement. "You brought this on yourself, Stark. You made Jarvis too debonair." He smiled smugly, "Also, Hammer Insurance covers everything, if you''d be willing to change plans."


    "I don''t need your input, Hammer," Tony snapped, though the faintest smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. "And for the record, you''re one to talk about being debonair. Thirty-eight kids. What are you, trying to start a cult?"


    "Not trying," Justin replied with some annoyance shining through. "Already succeeded, purely against my will to boot. You should see how devoted some of the people in it are. It''s almost terrifying." He sighed, running a hand through his hair, "Helen Cho is like my high priestess now, and for an intelligent woman, she is a few nuggets short of a happy meal."


    Tony threw his hands up in mock exasperation. "Great. Fantastic. Meanwhile, I''m over here having a panic attack over one kid, and you''re running around building a dynasty."


    Justin shrugged, only an eye twitch betraying his irritation. "Look at it this way - if I can handle thirty-eight, you can handle one. Easy."


    Tony didn''t look convinced, but the tension in his shoulders eased slightly as he leaned back against his chair, tossing the stress ball up again. "You''re insane, you know that?"


    Justin''s grin widened. "And yet, here you are. Squeezing your stress ball and spilling your parental fears to me. I must be doing something right to get the great Tony Stark to ask me for advice."


    Tony let out a dry laugh, shaking his head. "Yeah, yeah. Just don''t expect me to babysit any of your thirty-eight godlings." He mocked.


    "I wouldn''t dream of it," Justin said smoothly. Giving him a mocking smile, "Don''t want them to get drunk for breakfast until they''re out of diapers at least." He made a dismissive gesture. "They''re going to have the best nannies money can buy. It certainly won''t be me doing the work."


    Tony raised an eyebrow. "Nannies? What happened to all that talk about being a god and taking care of what''s yours?"


    Justin shrugged, his tone light. "I didn''t say I''d do it personally. Delegation, Stark. It''s the key to success."


    Tony snorted, shaking his head again as he turned his attention back to the bustling facility below. For a moment, the two of them stood in companionable silence, watching the satellites take shape. Despite their bickering and constant one-upping, there was an undeniable camaraderie between them - one forged through shared victories, rivalries, and the occasional bout of mutual respect.


    "Well," Tony said after a while, tossing the stress ball up one last time before catching it. "I guess you''re right all in all, if you can handle thirty-eight kids, I can probably manage one."


    "That''s the spirit," Justin said, clapping him on the back. "And hey, if your brat ever needs playmates¡­"


    "Don''t even finish that sentence," Tony cut in, his tone dry but tinged with a faint smile. "I''d rather ask Jarvis."


    Nail''s avatar perked up at the mention of her ''friend'', her holographic form practically glowing. "Jarvis always gives excellent advice and would be great with children," She said helpfully.


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head. "You two really will make the weirdest couple."


    What''s a little incest between AI anyway. If it could even be classified as it. Selfcest? Nail had been created off Jarvis programming after all.


    Tony groaned again, though this time there was more laughter than exasperation in his voice. "I hate you, Hammer."


    "Sure you do," Justin replied, grinning. "Sure you do."


    They had a weird relationship, but Justin had to admit he was glad they''d never gotten to blows as he''d been prepared to back then.


    This was almost¡­ Nice.


    <hr>


    The room was quiet, save for the faint sounds of the city beyond the towering glass window. Yelena sat on the edge of her bed, her knees drawn up, arms wrapped around them. A soft golden lamp bathed the space in a warm glow, but it did little to ease the shadows clinging to her thoughts. Her fingers absently toyed with the fabric of her sweater, pulling at loose threads as her mind raced.


    She hadn''t slept much since the revelation. Pregnant. The word echoed in her head like the toll of a distant bell. It was surreal, almost impossible to believe. Her? A mother? The idea felt foreign, like she''d been thrust into a role she wasn''t prepared for. Yelena had always lived on the edge, surviving on her own terms. She wasn''t made for this.


    Her gaze drifted to her stomach, still flat beneath the soft fabric of her sweater. It didn''t feel any different yet. No fluttering movements, no signs of the life growing within her. But it was there, a tiny spark of something she couldn''t yet name. She placed a hand over her belly, her touch tentative, as if afraid to acknowledge what lay beneath.


    Her mother''s face surfaced in her mind, unbidden and unexpected. A sharp pang of longing followed, twisting in her chest. Melina had been many things - distant at times, fiercely protective at others - but in the Red Room she had always been Yelena''s anchor in a world that often felt chaotic and cruel. And now she was gone.


    Right when she needed her the most.


    Tears pricked the corners of Yelena''s eyes, but she blinked them away. She hated crying, hated the weakness it made her feel. But tonight, it was harder to hold back. Her mother''s absence was a gaping wound that hadn''t fully healed, and now it felt even more raw. What would Melina have said if she were here? Would she have been proud? Would she have reassured Yelena that she could handle this, that she wasn''t alone?


    "I don''t know if I can do this, Mama," Yelena whispered into the empty room, her voice trembling. Justin had promised her she wouldn''t be shoved in a corner, but she knew he detested useless things. How useful would she be once she was 7-9 months pregnant?


    The silence that followed felt oppressive, a heavy reminder that no answer would come. Yelena let out a shaky breath, her fingers curling into fists. She felt adrift, torn between the fear of the unknown and a stubborn determination not to fail. She had survived worse, hadn''t she? She''d faced enemies, betrayal, death. But this¡­ This was different. This wasn''t about surviving. This was about creating something new, something fragile and precious.


    Her hand moved back to her stomach, resting there more firmly this time. The thought was terrifying, yes, but there was something else beneath it - something faint but growing. Hope.


    Yelena closed her eyes and leaned back against the headboard, letting the silence settle over her. For now, she would sit with her thoughts, with the memories of her mother, and with the fragile, uncertain future she held within her.


    She could handle this.


    She would handle this.


    Her phone rang and she swore quietly, picking it up, freezing in place as the voice on the other line began talking.


    Natasha¡­ Now? Really?


    <hr>


    Meanwhile, Indonesia,


    "Steve¡­" Bucky said wearily, stepping into the cheap motel room.


    "Bucky¡­" Steve breathed out, looking dirty and unshaven.


    "Start talking, idiot." Bucky said with exasperation, walking forward and punching his shoulder roughly. "Idiot."


    "You said idiot twice." Steve complained softly, staring at him longingly.


    Bucky just raised an eyebrow with a judgemental stare.


    Steve sheepishly rubbed the back of his head.


    <hr>

 From one relationship to another.

    <hr>


    April 1st, 2010


    The sun shone brightly over the sprawling grounds of UNICEF''s new headquarters in Zimbabwe. The air was warm, carrying the scent of freshly tilled earth and blossoming flowers. A lot of effort had gone into transforming the space into a beacon of hope and progress for all of Africa''s downtrodden.


    Not so downtrodden anymore, perhaps, but transforming third world countries into one''s with a living standard matching the first world - was not something that could be achieved in a measly year, despite Hammer Industries efforts.


    The facility itself was a mix of modern design and more down to earth African architecture  - mixing sleek glass buildings interspersed with green spaces - with circular enclosures with conical towers, all in a muted brown with marking of ancient times carved into its walls in geometrical patterns,  showcasing the African heritage side of things.


    All of the buildings bustled with activity as staff moved with purpose - former UN staff moving with pep in their step as they finally actually got to perform their mandates. Suits and fine dresses mingling with traditional robes and Burqas as the multicultural agency thrived.


    The end of poverty, of water scarcity, of soil erosion devastating farm lands - it was all now within reach.


    Justin strode confidently through the courtyard of the largest building - the main offices of UNICEF - the other ones relegated to satellite status and outreach offices, while the major players moved here. His tailored suit looked sharp against the vibrant backdrop of nature, and artificial waterfalls and fountains that dotted the space.


    Beside him, Jean Grey walked with measured steps, trying to mask her nerves, her eyes scanning the area with a mixture of awe and trepidation. Ororo Munroe trailed behind, her posture relaxed but her keen eyes taking in every detail, her time as a leader of the organization evident in her calm appraisal.


    "Impressive, isn''t it?" Justin said, breaking the comfortable silence. His voice carried an edge of pride as he gestured toward the main building, its mirrored surfaces reflecting the brilliant blue sky. "This is where the magic happens - at least for Africa at this time. Southeast Asia and the Middle East are next on the list for an expansion of assistance, but this is the beating heart of it all."


    He''d have preferred to draw Jean in closer than this, the Phoenix was something that made him wary, but that was also why he refused to push for more. He couldn''t even be sure she held the primordial force of the universe - but he''d operate on the assumption she did.


    Hence baby steps on the recruitment angle.


    As usual, Xavier had been entirely full of inane talk without revealing anything pertinent, when he''d subtly probed about the woman before her confirmation as head of UNESCO.


    Jean nodded, her fingers brushing nervously against the hem of her blazer. "It''s¡­ incredible. The scale of it all. I never imagined - " She cut herself off nervously, shaking her head slightly. "I''m just not sure I''m the right person for this."


    "You are," Justin said simply, his tone leaving no room for argument. "It''s all yours. You''re the head now, I''ve decided."


    It was already done, he wasn''t about to lead Jean slip hack into something as worthless as being part of the X-Men.


    If they even existed anymore in anything but name, Xavier had lost plenty of students and team members since Cairo, after all.


    Jean stopped in her tracks, blinking up at him in surprise. "Just like that? Mr Hammer, I''m new to this. I can''t just -"


    "You can," Justin interrupted smoothly, his gaze steady. "Ororo was the head. Now you are. Simple, two fantastic women cut from the same cloth, you''ll do great."


    Ororo gave her a warm smile as gently touched her shoulder, showing her support.


    Jean''s brows knitted together as she crossed her arms, her expression a mix of frustration and doubt. "No, it''s not that simple. What will people think? They''ll say I''m unqualified, that I don''t deserve this -"


    "That you''re sleeping with him," Ororo said dryly, cutting Jean off with a knowing smirk.


    Jean''s face turned beet red as she whirled toward Ororo. "But I''m not!" She protested, her voice almost a squeak.


    "They''ll think it," Justin said with a shrug, unfazed by the comment. "But one day of working under you, and they''ll realize you have what it takes to do this job and didnt sleep your way to it." His voice was calm, almost casual, but the conviction in his words was unmistakable.


    Now if she did end up in his bed¡­ He wouldn''t complain.


    Although after he''d figured out how to shut down his swimmers - Jean Grey becoming pregnant wasn''t a risk he wanted to take.


    Ororo''s smirk softened into a small smile as she placed a reassuring hand on Jean''s shoulder, more firmly this time. "He''s right. You''re more capable than you give yourself credit for. And once you start, no one will question why you''re here - and this is exactly what you need, what you''ve dreamed of."


    Jean let out a breath she didn''t realize she''d been holding, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "Thanks," She said quietly, though her cheeks still burned. "It is¡­ A wonderful opportunity."


    Justin resumed walking, leading them toward the main building. "This will be your main office," He explained. "We''ve got teams working across Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, that you''ll oversee, but we''re also expanding into Southeast Asia and the Middle East. There''s still a lot to be done to get everyone to the same standard, and your organization will be the bridge, stabilizing things until Hammer Industries can uplift them."


    Jean glanced at him curiously. "Africa isn''t almost done?"


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head. Ororo joined in with a soft laugh, her tone light but tinged with understanding. "Nowhere close," Justin said. "We''ve made significant progress, sure, but there are still areas under third-world conditions. Poverty will likely be a thing of the past here within a year, maybe a year and a half. It''s been one of our biggest focuses."


    "And your biggest bragging point," Ororo added with a teasing smile. Jean gave her a surprised look at how¡­ Comfortable, she seemed with him.


    Ororo gave her a look that said she''d explain later, and Jean let it go.


    Justin smirked at Ororo, having caught the silent byplay. "Can you blame me? Look around. This isn''t just talk - it''s results. But there''s still more to do, which is why you''re here," He said, looking pointedly at Jean.


    They entered the main building, and Justin led the way through brightly lit corridors lined with artwork and photographs of smiling children, eventually leading them to a large room where a setup for a photoshoot was visible. Cameras, lights, and backdrops were arranged with precision, while a small team of photographers and assistants bustled about.


    Jean stopped in her tracks, raising an eyebrow. "What''s all this?" She asked, gesturing toward the setup.


    Ororo''s eyes gleamed with mischief. "It''s for the children," She said innocently.


    Jean gave her a long-suffering look. "This isn''t going to help with people thinking I slept my way to the top." She said wryly, not really against it, more exasperated than anything. She gave Justin a look.


    He raised his hands, a smirk on his face, "For once, I am completely innocent."


    He''d still signed off on it, but it hadn''t been his idea.


    Ororo''s smirk widened as she crossed her arms and gave Jean a playful look. "Remember the photoshoot you all teased me for? The one I did to push a metahuman-friendly agenda and boost UNICEF''s profile? Well," She said, giving Jean a playful push toward the setup, "Your turn to dazzle the masses."


    Jean huffed, crossing her arms but unable to hide the small smile tugging at her lips. "You know, I''m not shy. I''ll do it. But," She added with a sly grin, "I bet I''ll sell more calendars than you did."


    Ororo''s eyes narrowed, as she scoffed with a playful air. "There is no chance that you''ll sell more than me, this goddess can''t be defeated by a mere pupil."


    Jean''s smirk turned triumphant as she strutted toward the photographer, her confidence returning in full force. "Watch and learn, Ororo."


    Justin watched from the sidelines, amused at how easily Ororo had gotten Jean to put her best foot forward, his arms crossed as he leaned casually against a pillar. "She''s a natural," He remarked, glancing at Ororo.


    Ororo shrugged, though her expression betrayed a hint of amusement. "She''ll be great at this job, the photoshoot is just a way to get back to her for her teasing," She said, her tone confident. "But there''s no way she outsells me."


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head. "You sound pretty sure of yourself."


    "I am," Ororo said firmly. "I''m iconic, the face of metahumans thanks to your campaign."


    The photoshoot continued, the energy in the room light and playful. Jean''s laughter echoed as she bantered with the photographer and assistants, her earlier nerves all but forgotten. She turned to Ororo at one point, striking a dramatic pose and calling out, "This one''s for the cover!"


    Ororo rolled her eyes, but the faint smile on her lips betrayed her amusement. "At least she''s having fun with it," She muttered.


    Halfway through the shoot, they moved away from Jean and let her have her moment, Ororo and Justin coming to stand near the large windows that overlooked the sprawling grounds.


    Ororo crossed her arms, her posture relaxed but her expression thoughtful as she gazed out over the grounds. Justin stood beside her, his hands casually tucked into his pockets. For a moment, neither spoke, the quiet between them comfortable.


    "So," Justin began, breaking the silence, "how are you feeling?"


    Ororo turned to look at him, her white, almost silvery hair, catching the light as a small smile curved her lips. "About what, exactly? The facility? The calendar contest Jean seems determined to win? Or¡­" Her hand drifted to her stomach, her fingers resting there lightly. "Are you asking about the baby you put in me?"


    Justin''s lips twitched into a faint smirk, though his gaze softened a tad. "The baby," He confirmed. "I know this probably wasn''t in your plans, and¡­ Well, I wanted to check in. Make sure you''re doing okay."


    He knew she''d intended to seduce him so that mutants - or metahumans as they''re now called - would have a voice in the new world order.


    But he doubted she''d planned on baby trapping him. That one was on him and his powerful seed.


    Ororo''s smile widened slightly, though her eyes held a flicker of amusement. "Are you about to apologize, Justin? I didn''t think that was in your repertoire."


    Justin chuckled, leaning one shoulder against the window frame. "Don''t get used to it," He said dryly. "But yeah, I guess I am. I didn''t exactly set out to¡­ Defeat your birth control, but it turns out divine biology doesn''t care much about human intentions."


    Ororo arched an eyebrow, her tone playful. "Is that what you''re calling it now? Divine biology?"


    "It''s accurate," Justin replied with a shrug, though his smirk returned. "Doesn''t make it any less annoying, though, if it''s¡­ Unwanted." He finished delicately.


    Ororo laughed softly, shaking her head. "It''s not entirely your fault," She admitted. "I knew what I was getting into when I got involved with you, even if I didn''t expect¡­ This." She gestured vaguely toward her stomach, her expression turning more contemplative. "And honestly? I''m okay with it. Surprised, yes. But pleased."


    Justin tilted his head, his curiosity piqued. "Pleased?" He repeated. "I wasn''t aware you had aspirations of motherhood. If anything, I had expected some anger, or resentment."


    There was a big difference between selling your body for your race, and signing on for 18 years of child rearing.


    Ororo met his gaze, her eyes steady and calm. "I''ve always wanted children, it''s why i enjoyed being a teacher so much," She said simply. "It''s not something I''ve talked about much, but it''s true. And while I might not have chosen you as the father if given the choice," She added with a teasing smile and frank honesty, "I won''t deny that this child will have certain¡­ Advantages."


    Justin snorted softly. "Advantages, huh? Is that your polite way of saying you''ll be mooching off my riches and my godhood?"


    Ororo laughed, the sound warm and genuine. "Something like that," She said, her voice tinged with amusement. "But in all seriousness, Justin, this isn''t a bad thing. Unexpected, yes. Complicated, definitely. But not bad."


    Justin studied her for a moment, his smirk fading into a more thoughtful expression. "You''re taking this a lot better than I expected," He admitted. "Of all the people, I would have thought you would be the most uncomfortable with this scenario."


    Their tryst had been passionate but brief, and they hadn''t yet revisited the matter, Justin too busy and surrounded by other women happily taking care of his needs.


    Ororo shrugged, her gaze drifting back to the view outside. "I''ve learned to adapt," She said. "Life doesn''t always go the way we plan, and I''ve had my fair share of unexpected challenges. This is just another one. And honestly?" She smiled softly, her hand still resting on her stomach. "I''m looking forward to it."


    Justin nodded slowly, a hint of respect in his expression. "You''re a lot more level-headed about this than I''d be," He said. "Not that I have much of a choice anymore, with thirty-eight kids on the way."


    Ororo''s eyes widened slightly, and she turned to him with a look of incredulity. "Thirty-eight?" She repeated. "Justin, what on Earth -"


    "Divine biology and a healthy appetite," Justin interrupted, holding up a hand. "Apparently, it''s incredibly effective. Trust me, I already know how crazy this is."


    Ororo shook her head, though she couldn''t hide the faint smile on her lips. "You''re such a slut," She said, her tone half-amused, half-reproving.


    "Maybe," Justin said with a smirk. "But at least I''m consistent."


    The two fell into a companionable silence, the weight of their conversation balanced by the ease of their banter. After a moment, Ororo spoke again, her tone more serious.


    "Justin," She said, turning to face him fully. "I want you to know that while I''m okay with this, I have certain expectations."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his expression placid, as he had a good idea what she meant. "Oh? Do tell."


    Ororo''s gaze was steady, her voice firm but not unkind. "This child will have a stable life. A safe life. I know you thrive on chaos, but that''s not what I want for them. If you''re going to be involved, I need to know that you''ll prioritize their well-being, instead of setting up some sort of inheritance game, forcing them to grow up too soon."


    Justin nodded, his expression serious. "I get it," He said. "And you don''t have to worry. I''m not planning to raise a bunch of mini-me''s running around causing chaos. They''ll have everything they need - and then some. I don''t need another me, I''m irreplaceable."


    He hadn''t wanted kids right now in the first place, so it wasn''t a hardship to agree to being hands off, it was a relief if anything.


    Ororo''s lips quirked into a small smile. "I''ll hold you to that."


    "You should," Justin said with a smirk. "Keeps me honest."


    <hr>


    2nd of April, 2010, Budapest.


    The small caf¨¦ on the quiet streets of Budapest was unremarkable, tucked between a patisserie and a clothing boutique. Its charm lay in its simplicity - cozy wooden furniture, checkered tablecloths, and the warm scent of freshly brewed coffee mingling with hints of pastries.


    The lunchtime crowd had thinned, leaving only a handful of patrons scattered at tables. Among them, at a corner table shrouded in shadow, sat Clint Barton and Natasha Romanoff, their postures tense despite their casual disguises, her hair dyed blonde, like his, while he''d also added a fake beard, to sell their disguise as brother and sister.


    Their fake IDs were easily able to hold up to police scrutiny, if not an actual intelligence agency.


    Clint adjusted his baseball cap, his eyes scanning the room for the hundredth time. "She''s late," He muttered, the impatience in his voice poorly hidden.


    "She''ll come," Natasha replied, her tone measured but tinged with uncertainty. She stared at her untouched espresso, her fingers tracing the rim of the cup. "She''s got the upper hand, no reason to move on anything but her own time."


    Clint sighed, leaning back in his chair. "And if she doesn''t? What if she decided to turn us in instead?"


    Natasha''s lips pressed into a thin line. She hadn''t allowed herself to voice that possibility, but now that Clint had said it out loud, it hung between them like an accusation. "Then I wouldn''t blame her," She admitted quietly, her voice barely audible above the soft clinking of cutlery in the background. "Not after everything..."


    They''d backed the wrong horse. right or wrong, what did it matter?


    Before Clint could respond, the caf¨¦''s door opened, the chime above it ringing softly. Both Clint and Natasha''s gazes snapped toward the entrance, their muscles taut with anticipation. Yelena stepped inside, dressed casually in jeans and a black leather jacket, several ornate rings around each forearm, her long blond hair pulled into a loose braid. Her confident stride carried her to their table with an air of purpose, but it was the figure trailing behind her that made Clint and Natasha exchange a wary glance.


    Domino strolled in behind Yelena, her dark hair framing a face that was equal parts amused and watchful. She didn''t sit with them, instead choosing a table a few feet away where she could see everything. She locked eyes with Natasha, pointing two fingers from her eyes to Natasha''s in an unmistakable gesture of warning.


    Their file on Domino by the end of their time with SHIELD had really only had one word of advice on engaging her up close.


    Don''t.


    Yelena slid into the seat across from Natasha, her eyes cool and unreadable. She leaned back, crossing her arms. "You''re both still alive," She said dryly. "At least you didn''t fuck that up."


    Natasha gave her a faint smile, her hands tightening around her cup. "Thanks for coming, Yelena."


    Yelena didn''t respond immediately, her gaze flicking over Natasha before settling on Clint. "You brought him," She said, her tone neutral but with a hint of something sharper beneath.


    "Clint''s family," Natasha said simply. "Just like you."


    Yelena arched an eyebrow. "Family," She repeated, the word laced with irony. "Is that why you''ve decided to meet me here? To remind me of our - so very important - family ties?"


    Natasha hesitated, unsure how to proceed. "I just¡­ Wanted to talk, clear the air." She said finally. "To congratulate you, actually. You''ve done well for yourself. A top position in the new world order - it''s impressive."


    Some flattery wouldn''t hurt. Because Natasha had a feeling she wouldn''t get out of this without some pain on her end. Yelena had not been impressed with her excuses when they''d talked over the phone.


    Yelena''s lips quirked into a faint, humorless smile. "Is this the part where you start begging?" She lightly mocked.


    Clint bristled, leaning forward. "Hey, you don''t have to talk to her like that."


    Natasha tried to impress with her gaze that he was not being helpful, but he ignored her to glare at Yelena.


    Yelena''s expression didn''t falter, but her smile grew sharper as she looked at Clint. "Calm down, Hawkeye," She said mockingly. "No one''s forced you to kneel and bark on command, yet."


    Natasha raised a hand to stop Clint from escalating. "We''re not here to fight," She said gently. "We''re here because¡­ Because we were wrong. About a lot of things, and to¡­ Apologize."


    Natasha would honestly prefer to pull her teeth out with pliers, but she had no other play left but to¡­ Bow before her little sister.


    Yelena''s smile widened, though there was no warmth in it. "Wrong, huh? That''s putting it lightly." She tilted her head, her voice taking on a singsong quality. "Did you know there''s an orbital laser aimed at this caf¨¦ right now? Along with five teams of operatives surrounding the building and drones stationed at every possible exit?"


    Clint and Natasha exchanged a glance, alarm flashing across Clint''s face. "You''re bluffing," He said, though his tone lacked confidence.


    Yelena held up a finger, her expression smug. "Not bluffing," She said. "I have people who care about me, who would go to the ends of the earth for me. People who protect me." She leaned forward slightly, her gaze piercing. "All the things you two threw away to follow a nutjob, for some silly idea of democracy."


    Clint opened his mouth to retort, but Natasha laid a hand on his arm, silencing him. She turned to Yelena, her expression somber. "She''s right, Clint," Natasha said softly. "We played the wrong side." Her voice wavered slightly as she met Yelena''s gaze. "That''s why we''re here. We''re sorry."


    Yelena''s smirk remained, but her eyes were locked on Natasha''s. "Is that what you call groveling and begging?" She asked, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "A simple sorry?"


    Clint''s jaw tightened, and he looked like he was about to say something sharp, but before he could, he let out a grunt of pain, grabbing for his leg under the table. Natasha had clearly kicked him, though her expression remained calm.


    "We really doing this, sis?" Natasha asked Yelena, her voice tinged with long-suffering exasperation. Trying one last time to play on their connection.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Yelena raised an eyebrow, her smirk turning knowing. "Oh, yeah," She said with feeling. "We''re doing this."


    Natasha sighed, looking around the caf¨¦ before visibly swallowing her pride. "Fine. I was wrong. You were right. You''re smarter, prettier, and a better fighter than me, okay?"


    Yelena made a thoughtful humming sound, tapping her chin as though considering Natasha''s words. She turned her head slightly, calling out to Domino. "That sound like enough, Dom? What do you think?"


    Domino, who had been watching the interaction with a cold smirk, raised her voice just enough for the entire caf¨¦ to hear. "Make her lick your feet! She should really beg for forgiveness¡­"


    Natasha froze, her expression incredulous, while Clint muttered, "What the fuck," Under his breath.


    Yelena turned back to Natasha, her smirk now positively gleeful. She raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying her sister''s discomfort. "Well?" She asked, her tone mockingly sweet.


    Natasha let out a long sigh, resting her forehead against her arms on the table. "We really doing this, Yelena?" She asked, her voice muffled.


    "Maybe not that far," Yelena acknowledged, though her tone was still light with amusement. "You are my sister after all. But a little humiliation isn''t amiss."


    Natasha lifted her head, her expression one of weary resignation. "How much more humiliating do you want it? Isn''t it enough that I slept with Justin Hammer? That''s enough humiliation on its own."


    Yelena''s expression darkened instantly, her smirk vanishing as storm clouds seemed to gather in her eyes.


    Clint, sensing the change in atmosphere, elbowed Natasha sharply. "Uh, I''m no expert on sisterhood," He said under his breath, "but maybe don''t make fun of the guy she''s with?"


    Natasha winced, realizing too late her mistake. "Where''s your groveling, Clint?" She snapped back, though her contrite tone betrayed her regret.


    Clint glared at her. "I didn''t do any because you said - and I quote - ''Let me handle my sister, Clint.''"


    Yelena''s expression regained its sharp edge as she leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms. "So," She said coldly, her voice carrying an undercurrent of amusement. "Where were we? Licking my feet, was it?"


    Natasha sighed again, rubbing her temples. "What will it take to get me out of this hole?" She asked straight-up, her tone resigned.


    Yelena''s grin returned, slow and dangerous, her eyes practically sparkling.


    "Fuck," Natasha muttered under her breath, already dreading what was coming.


    Clint leaned in slightly, his expression half-exasperated, half-annoyed. "Aren''t you supposed to be good at this?" He asked her pointedly.


    "Shut up Clint!"


    <hr>


    April 2nd, late evening, Moon base one.


    The moon base''s robotics laboratory was a masterpiece of engineering, and now it was all his. The facility was massive, its walls of reinforced alloys reflecting the cold, sterile glow of artificial lights. In the center of it all lay the dismantled remains of several Sentinels, including what was left of Master Mold, or Calamity, if one cared about its name.


    Justin stood before it all, surveying the scattered parts with a keen eye. Around him, his team of brilliant, if eccentric, scientists worked on deciphering every iota of the Sentinels, from programming down to the metallurgy components in their toes. Ivan Vanko, Forge, and Doctor Otto Octavius were all in various stages of examination and disassembly, their hands and minds working in perfect synchronicity.


    For Justin, today felt different. There was an undeniable energy in the room, a seamless flow to their efforts that seemed to come from nowhere. His godhood of innovation had been subtly tapped into, and the result was extraordinary. Ideas formed and clicked into place without hesitation. Tools moved with precision, and every piece of the Sentinel seemed to reveal its secrets as if offering itself up willingly.


    Justin felt such inspiration, his mind was already awhirl with ideas and possible adaptations, the dominion of innovation stronger for him then it was for those mortals he shared it out with by his presence.


    Forge leaned over one of the Sentinel''s core processors, his hands a blur as he dismantled its intricate circuitry. "This thing''s design is insane," He muttered, his voice tinged with awe. "It''s like peeling back the layers of a goddamn onion, and every layer just makes more sense than the last - even if it shouldn''t make sense at all, or work, with the technology on hand."


    "You sound like little boy, falling in love," Vanko teased, his thick Russian accent slurring slightly. He lifted a bottle of vodka to his lips, taking a hearty swig before setting it down next to a half-disassembled servo mechanism.


    Forge didn''t miss a beat, his smirk visible even as he worked. "At least my ''love'' has a purpose for the betterment of the world. Unlike your obsession with drinking until your brain cells spit out an idea as a desperate bid for survival."


    "Vodka good for thinking," Vanko retorted, gesturing grandly with his bottle. "Makes mind loose. Not like you, always so tight now, was better when both drinking, you want drink now?"


    Forge snorted. "Yeah, I''ll pass. Besides, I don''t need liquid courage to deal with my work - or women, like you. You drink a lot more now that you''re taken, can''t handle it, huh?"


    Vanko barked out a laugh. "Women? You mean your hand?" He raised an eyebrow, grinning lecherously. "Do you take out for dinner first?" He mocked.


    Forge grinned back, entirely unfazed. "Unlike you, I''m an engineer. The things I can build are better than a woman in every way, pressure, vibration, suction, and most importantly, it doesn''t talk."


    Doctor Octavius looked disgusted, muttering under his breath, "That was more than I ever wished to know¡­" His mechanical arms were busy sketching for him as he worked on three different projects at once.


    Justin watched the exchange with a bemused smile, even as he tinkered with Calamity''s parts. "Are you two done comparing your prowess as men? Or should I order popcorn for the inevitable fight?"


    Vanko waved a hand dismissively, returning his attention to the pieces he''d disassembled from the Sentinel. "Let boy talk. He know I better at everything. No need argue."


    With the innovation domain spread out across them due to Justin''s influence, Vanko, like the others, had already sketched out numerous blueprints based on what they''d found, shooting humanities knowledge of robotics dozens of years forward.


    Doctor Octavius, standing on the other side of the room, giving himself some space from the others, let out a sigh. "Why am I even here?" He muttered, his tone exasperated. "I''m surrounded by reprobates. Science is the only language I speak, and it seems wasted in this room."


    Vanko looked up from his work, narrowing his eyes at Otto. "Repro-what? You calling names, octopus?"


    Otto sighed, adjusting his glasses. "It means degenerates, simpletons. And yes, I''m calling you that, you drunk."


    Justin scratched his chin, not even noticing the oil he covered himself in, feeling quite odd about the fact even with the influence hyper charging their scientific abilities - it didn''t stop them from putting it aside to focus on being utter asses.


    Vanko''s face split into a grin as he grabbed his vodka bottle and pointed it at Otto. "Well, octopus, I maybe not know what all means, still going to beat you up for being pussy."


    "You''re drunk," Otto replied flatly. "I could take you."


    Forge, who had been quietly enjoying the exchange, perked up. "Oh, I''m putting fifteen hundred dollars on Vanko," He said eagerly, grinning as he set down his tools.


    Otto turned to him with an incredulous expression. "We''re not actually fighting. I was simply making an observation on his readiness."


    The room fell silent for a moment as Vanko stood abruptly, swaying slightly before ripping off his shirt and letting out a loud roar. "Let''s fight, octopussy!" He bellowed, his chest bare and his stance unsteady.


    Justin palmed his face at the - property of Zara - tattoo he could see, barely covered by the line of Vanko''s lagging sweatpants. His Black Widows did really go the extra mile at times¡­


    Otto froze, his mechanical arms halting their work as he stared at Vanko in disbelief. "This is absurd," He muttered, glancing at Justin for support. "Tell him this is beneath us."


    Justin smirked, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Oh, I believe in you, Otto." He said, not inclined to save him.


    The scientist was prone to condescend to the others, so this was long overdue, he felt.


    And maybe afterwards, they could go back to the science like what they were here for!


    Forge grinned, folding his arms. "So, what''s your bet, boss?"


    Justin''s expression didn''t change as he replied casually, "I''m betting on Vanko, of course."


    Otto gave him a withering look. "Your belief didn''t last long, did it, sir?"


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head. "I believe in you plenty, Otto. But when it comes to money, I only pick winners." He tilted his head toward Vanko, who was now shadowboxing clumsily. "And I believe in Vanko more - he''s stronger when drunk."


    Otto sighed, muttering under his breath about the futility of his situation. As Vanko lunged toward him, Otto''s mechanical arms moved with precision, swiping Vanko aside effortlessly and tossed him against the nearest wall. "This is beneath me," Otto said with disdain.


    Before anyone could respond, a bottle of vodka soared through the air and struck Otto squarely on the head, shattering and soaking him in the process.


    Otto''s eye twitched.


    <hr>


    April 3rd, 2010, United States of America.


    The old pickup truck rattled slightly as it rolled down the narrow country road, dust kicking up behind its tires. The faint smell of oil and aged leather filled the cab, mingling with the quiet hum of the engine. Bucky sat behind the wheel, one hand casually draped over the top, the other resting lightly on the stick shift.


    Beside him, Steve sat hunched in the passenger seat, his ball cap pulled low over his face, and his hands nervously fidgeting with the hem of his jacket.


    Hammer had given Bucky carte blanche to do what he wished with his old friend. As long as it didn''t come back and bite Hammer Industries.


    He''d been unsure for a long time about fighting for Hammer, but it seemed the best choice, now even more so. HYDRA was dead, his soul almost at piece with that knowledge, something that couldn''t have happened without Hammer.


    Not with how deeply HYDRA had entrenched itself in the government''s and intelligence apparatuses around the world.


    For Steve, the weight of everything he''d missed - and everything that had gone wrong - seemed heavier than ever. Especially after Bucky had shared his point of view, and all that Hammer had done, comparing that to what Steve''s ''benefactors'' had ever done for the world.


    Especially once he found out from his best friend that Peggy hadn''t been ''taken'' by Hammer as a hostage. She''d been removed for Bucky''s sake, and healed of the debilitating disease she''d had.


    "Tell me again," Steve said quietly, his voice tinged with both hope and apprehension. "She''s okay? She''s really okay?"


    Bucky glanced at him, his expression softer than usual. "Yeah, Steve. She''s more than okay. Panacea works miracles like that." He flexed his metal fingers idly, on the hand he''d refused to let grow back, having kept his metal arm to remind him of his crimes, maybe he was ready now? "Hammer''s got his faults, but saving Peggy and others like her? That''s worth every fault in my book, Steve."


    Steve nodded, his eyes fixed on the horizon. The tension in his shoulders was unmistakable. "It''s hard to believe she''d even¡­ Agree to it."


    Bucky smirked, shifting gears as the truck climbed a small hill. "You think Peggy Carter wouldn''t take the chance to kick death in the teeth? You don''t know her as well as you think."


    Steve''s lips twitched into the faintest of smiles, though it didn''t quite reach his eyes, fear shining through. "Yeah, I guess you''re right. Still¡­ I''m nervous, Buck. It''s been so long. What if¡­?"


    "She''ll be glad to see you," Bucky interrupted firmly. Then, after a pause, He added with a wry grin, "After she finishes yelling at you."


    Steve let out a soft laugh, but it was laced with anxiety. "Yeah, probably."


    The truck hit a bump in the road, and Steve grabbed onto the door handle instinctively. As the vehicle steadied, he turned his gaze to Bucky, his brows furrowing. "So¡­ She''s okay with not working with SHIELD anymore? Not trying to save it at all?"


    She''d created the organization, it had been half the reason Steve had been so quick to dance to Fury''s tune. He''d been helping the organization she built.


    Bucky shook his head, his expression darkening slightly. "Nope. She made it real clear she was done with them. Said she''d seen enough to know they couldn''t be trusted to exist - not with how they had HYDRA crawling around inside, not after what they did¡­ Or didn''t do..."


    Steve winced, guilt flickering across his face. "Because of me."


    Bucky rolled his eyes, keeping his eyes on the road. "Steve, not everything''s about you. SHIELD screwed up on a whole bunch of levels long before you thawed and Peggy hates it. Let''s not forget they didn''t figure out HYDRA was playing them from the inside for decades. They let Howard die due to that infiltration, and they never came looking for me either, which burns Peggy something fierce now." His grip on the wheel tightened for a moment before he let out a breath. "Peggy saw all that history now, saw how broken it was, and decided she wasn''t gonna waste her time fighting for something that wasn''t worth saving."


    Peggy had been the first to applaud Hammer''s complete dismantling of everything she built.


    She still didn''t like him.


    But she respected him.


    Which was fair enough. Bucky worked for him, and he didn''t like him either. You didn''t have time like people to work with them.


    Something Steve needed to learn.


    Steve slumped back in his seat, his cap shadowing his face even more. "But¡­ Democracy," He said weakly, his voice tinged with that old idealism, coming from a time long gone.


    Bucky gave him a sideways look, his expression flat. "Yeah, well, Peggy''s seen what ''democracy'' brought over the decades too. She''s a little more open-minded now. Maybe you should try it."


    SHIELD being what they were, their failures, it had really burned any empathy Peggy held for the government''s of the world. They''d only succeeded in making everything worse, she''d said once her mind was returned to her.


    Steve frowned, but he didn''t argue. The silence stretched between them, broken only by the soft hum of the truck''s engine. They drove on for a while, the tension thickening with every mile.


    Finally, Steve broke the silence, his voice quiet and hesitant. "Is she¡­ Is she going to hate me?"


    Bucky''s lips curved into a smirk, and he gave Steve a look filled with just a hint of schadenfreude.


    "Oh, she is going to kick your ass," Bucky said with relish.


    <hr>


    April 10th, 2010, Malibu.


    The Malibu workshop was, as always, a playground for genius. Tony Stark''s space was an eclectic mix of cutting-edge tech, half-finished experiments, and the lingering smell of ozone from a plasma welder left on as he got distracted by something else.


    Holographic displays floated above the workstations, illuminating the space in a cool blue glow that reflected off the metal of the tools and machinery scattered around. Justin worked diligently at one of the workbenches, his eyes darting between Tony and the holograms as they worked on finalizing the designs for the weapons systems that would soon adorn Earth''s orbital defense satellites.


    With the stock of Pym Particles they had, they''d be able to build and launch a shield around the world in six months or so - if the projections held.


    Soon enough, Tony and Banner would dig into solving the Pym Particles, and Justin didn''t doubt it for a second that they would. Tony had made time travel work, he could do this.


    Justin might even be able to if he leaned heavily into his different domains, but he didn''t have the time. Tony had Pepper running his company and life - he had the time.


    Justin wasn''t entirely sure why Tony had invited him here to begin with. The man still didn''t take him seriously as an equal, despite Justin''s consistent successes in merging innovation and enterprise. He certainly didn''t realize that Justin was flexing his domain over innovation itself to keep pace - because he didn''t believe Justin was a god. Without that, matching Tony''s rapid-fire thoughts would''ve been a challenge - even if Justin wasn''t about to admit that out loud.


    He hadn''t souped Tony up on that juice, because he was honestly somewhat afraid that the man would create if he got even better at innovating tech.


    Tony, oblivious to any divine intervention, was in his element of course. He was wearing a grease-stained tank top and jeans, his hands moving in a blur as he manipulated a holographic schematic of the satellite. "Alright, Hammer," Tony said without looking up, "Try to keep up."


    Justin bit back a retort, focusing instead on the projection in front of him. It was a strong, modular design utilizing vibranium, outfitted with enough weaponry to make any alien invader think twice about messing with Earth. Justin frowned, tweaking a detail in the design. "You''re cramming too much power into the particle cannons. They''ll overheat before they get through a sustained barrage."


    Even with Vibranium, there was only so much bang you could put in something. And it would be a waste to accidentally blow up that much vibranium.


    Thankfully, with the world as it was, they were now, together, the sole occupants of the world''s vibranium.


    Well¡­ Except for Namor, he should really do something about that blowhard soon¡­


    Tony paused, glancing at Justin with a raised eyebrow. "Overheat? Please. This isn''t amateur hour. Look -" He expanded the section Justin had adjusted, revealing an intricate cooling system. "These are superconductive heat sinks that with the power of pym particles will fit ten thousand sinks, to prevent issues. They''ll keep the cannons cool enough to fire at full capacity for two hours straight."


    They didn''t have an alien ship to study, but one of these cannons could vaporize a navy battle cruiser in seconds, so it should do something to a spaceship.


    Justin studied the design, grudgingly impressed. "Not bad. Two hours should be enough. What happens if the attack lasts longer than that? If it''s a blockade?"


    Tony grinned, gesturing to a secondary system embedded within the satellite. "Backup cooling. Liquid helium reservoirs, shrunk by the power of the Pym as well. It''s a fail-safe in case things get hairy." And cheaper on Pym Particles too, Justin could see.


    Justin nodded, conceding the point. "Alright. And what about the missile systems to compliment the other weaponry? Were you able to incorporate my thoughts, or forced to settle for more traditional weapons?"


    Tony''s grin widened. "Me, settle? Perish the thought. Check this out." He highlighted a series of cylindrical compartments on the satellite''s underside. "These aren''t just missiles - they''re micro-railgun clusters. When fired, they break apart and magnetically accelerate a payload of tungsten rods, each about the size of a pencil at first thanks to -  well you know what - flying away at hypersonic speeds. They hit with the force of a small nuke but without the messy fallout, just like you theorized."


    Justin let out a low whistle. "That''s¡­ horrifyingly delicious, I knew I was a genius. What about power draw? Those missiles will eat through energy like crazy in each firing sequence, it''s why I had hesitated over if they were worth it."


    Tony waved a hand dismissively. "That''s what the arc reactors are for. Each satellite gets its own reactor obviously. They''re smallish, but powerful enough to keep everything running smoothly for decades."


    And if they could crack Pym Particles quickly, they could afford to seed the satellites with backup arc generators by the dozens through miniaturization.


    Justin frowned after a moment, pointing to another section of the schematic. "And the stabilizers? If one of those railgun missiles has a glitch and fires off-center, the satellite''s rotation could go haywire."


    Tony tapped a spot on the blueprint, pulling up the gyroscopic stabilization system. "Triple redundancies. Even if two stabilizers fail, the satellite will stay steady. And if all three fail? Well, that''s why we''re building hundreds of these bad boys. Redundancy in numbers."


    Justin hummed in thought, shaking his head. "We do good work, but we''ll definitely need to get on the Pym Particles immediately, the last half of the satellites could go up ten times as strong if we didn''t have to ration particles."


    Tony shot him a smug look. "It''s me. I''ll have it cracked in a week, tops."


    Justin leaned closer to the hologram, his fingers dancing over the controls as he made a few minor adjustments, not dignifying Tony with an answer. Especially as he might pull it off. "Okay, let''s focus on the laser defense systems? I''m assuming we''re going with solid-state?"


    Tony nodded, his expression turning serious. "Solid-state lasers, yeah. High-energy, continuous beam. They''re perfect for precision strikes against anything fired against the satellite. But we''re also integrating free-electron lasers for versatility. Those can be tuned on the fly, letting us adjust the wavelength and energy output depending on the target."


    Justin''s brow furrowed. "That''s ambitious. Free-electron lasers require a lot of space. Can we even fit them onto the satellite before we''ve cracked Pyms formula?"


    Tony grinned, pulling up another schematic. "Miniaturized electron accelerators without pym particles, I was bored last night. It''s tight, but it works."


    Justin studied the design, his mind racing. "Alright. And targeting systems? You added the backup I asked for in case Nail is somehow shut down?"


    Nail could run the defense system by herself, but she''d been bypassed before, so he wasn''t taking chances.


    "Added a limited AI, yeah," Tony replied. "There''s a manual override if we need it. And before you ask, yes, the AI is idiot-proof. I made sure of it."


    The two men fell into a comfortable rhythm, bouncing ideas off each other as they refined the designs. The satellites were shaping up to be marvels of engineering - powerful, efficient, and terrifyingly effective.


    As the holographic display flickered away for a moment, Justin leaned back, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Alright, Stark. Enough tech talk for a second. How''s Pepper doing?"


    Tony glanced at him, a small smile playing on his lips. "She''s good. Keeps me grounded. Keeps the company running. Honestly, she''s the best thing that ever happened to me."


    Justin smirked. "Smart, hot as sin, and tough as nails. You really hit the jackpot, didn''t you?"


    Personally, he had better women, but he wasn''t going to rain on Tony''s parade.


    Tony''s smile turned sly. "You don''t even know the half of it. Let''s just say that heat is even better in the bedroom, there''s a reason I''m monogamous now."


    Justin raised an eyebrow. "I don''t need to know the details, Tony, we both know she wears the pants, you filthy bottom."


    Tony laughed, leaning back in his chair. "Your loss, you''re just jealous."


    Justin shook his head, getting contemplative. "I couldn''t do it, though. The whole ''forever'' thing. I mean, I''m a god now. imagine the same woman for eternity..."


    Tony groaned, rubbing his temples. "You''re not a god, Hammer." He broke out two beers from a mini fridge, and tossed one to Justin, "Drink it and shut up, before I regret my life choices."


    Justin looked at the beer with disdain. Without a word, he flicked his hand, creating a swirling portal in midair. He reached through, his arm disappearing into the glowing vortex, and pulled back a tropical drink in a coconut shell, complete with a colorful swirly straw.


    Tony stared at the drink, then at Justin. "That''s not godly. That''s just you having freaky powers."


    Justin shrugged, taking a sip of his drink. "Call it what you want."


    Tony''s eyes flicked back to the drink, then to Justin. "Okay, fine. Where''s mine?"


    Justin rolled his eyes and created another portal, reaching through to retrieve a second coconut drink. An indignant "Hey!" echoed faintly from the other side of the portal before it snapped shut.


    "Don''t tell Pepper you can grab alcohol from anywhere," Tony said as he grabbed the drink. "She''ll totally ruin this playdate." He slurped loudly through the straw, leaning back with a satisfied sigh.


    Justin smirked. "Whipped."


    Tony''s expression darkened comically even as his lips twitched, and then, without warning, he hurled a nearby wrench at Justin''s head. The wrench struck Justin squarely on the forehead - and broke in two.


    Tony stared at the broken pieces on the floor, his coconut drink frozen halfway to his lips. "You broke my favorite wrench." He complained.


    From the speakers, Jarvis chimed in, his tone dry as ever. "Sir, you retrieved that wrench from a drawer filled with dozens of identical wrenches."


    Tony pointed at the shattered remains. "But it was my favorite." He whined.


    Jarvis warbled out a sigh. "Sir, we order a new drawer of wrenches every month." He reminded.


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head. "Also, for the record, I didn''t break it. You did."


    Tony gestured at him with his drink, looking affronted. "It wasn''t broken when it left my hand."


    Justin gave him a bemused look. "Throwing things at a god means you lose them. It''s a rule."


    Tony slammed a hand down on the workbench, his coconut drink sloshing slightly. "You know what? Fine. I''m going to reform. Join the Church of Hammer. I could probably make high priest in a month with a few well-placed donations, if this is a thing now, I''ll go all the way, how about that?."


    Justin choked on his drink in horror.


    <hr>


    The next day, Hammerhaven.


    The spacious living room of Justin''s penthouse was bathed in a warm, dim light, the kind meant for relaxation rather than business. The oversized screen on the far wall had just begun to scroll with the credits of a high-budget sci-fi flick, the score swelling dramatically as the audience - Justin, Domino, Yelena, and Eileen - sat in varying states of relaxation.


    Domino and Eileen were comfortably curled up together on one of the couches, Domino''s head resting lazily on Eileen''s shoulder, her dark hair splayed against the other woman''s pale neck. Eileen absently twirled a strand of Domino''s hair between her fingers, her legs tucked up underneath her. Across the room, Justin and Yelena occupied the other couch, their postures less intertwined but no less comfortable. Yelena leaned back with her arms crossed, her feet tucked up on the cushions, while Justin reclined with one arm slung over the back of the couch.


    The movie''s dramatic final notes faded into softer, reflective tones as the credits rolled. Justin, ever the workaholic even during downtime, let out a contemplative hum that immediately put the others on edge.


    "You know," He began, his tone casual but carrying the weight of one of his infamous ideas, "We really ought to rename Earth."


    The room instantly tensed, though Justin didn''t notice. Domino stiffened slightly in Eileen''s arms, and Yelena glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, her brow furrowing. Eileen''s fingers froze mid-motion, her eyes darting to Domino''s with a silent look that screamed, Oh no, here we go.


    "What''s wrong with Earth?" Yelena asked, trying to sound uninterested as she studied him.


    Justin shrugged, staring up at the ceiling like the question had been bothering him for weeks. "It''s just¡­ Not dignified. A planet like this, under my leadership? It deserves something better. Something unique."


    Hammertopia? HammerPrime? He''d have to workshop it.


    Domino let out a nervous laugh, breaking the silence. "You''re serious about this? Isn''t Earth, like¡­ Fine? Everyone knows it as Earth."


    "Thor said others in the galaxy call it Terra," Eileen offered carefully, her voice measured as though she were navigating a minefield.


    Justin turned that over in his head, his lips twitching in mild consideration. "Terra¡­ It has a certain ring to it. But it doesn''t sound special enough. Not for what we''re building here."


    The panicked looks were back, Domino shooting Eileen a quick what do we do? glance. Eileen, ever the composed one, tried again. "It might be bad luck to name it now," She said smoothly. "You know, when technically it''s not all yours yet. Russia and China are still holding out, and then there''s the whole Middle East situation¡­"


    Domino latched onto the idea like a lifeline. "Exactly! You don''t want to jinx it. Wait until you''ve got the whole thing sewn up before you start slapping your name on it."


    Justin glanced between the two of them, his expression bemused, as though he couldn''t quite understand why they were trying to talk him out of this. "I''ve already won," He said with a slight smirk. "It''s fine. They''ll fold eventually. I just need to think of the right name¡­"


    "Let''s go," Yelena cut in abruptly, rising from her seat and grabbing Justin''s hand.


    Justin blinked, caught off guard. "Go where?"


    "Bedroom. Now." Yelena''s tone left no room for argument.


    Justin tilted his head, his brow furrowing slightly. "What''s gotten into you? We''re in the middle of -"


    "Now," Yelena said firmly, her eyes narrowing with determination. "I''ll wear the outfit you like." She coaxed, "With the tail too¡­"


    That stopped him in his tracks. A flicker of understanding crossed his face, followed by a slow grin. "You drive a hard bargain, Yelena," He murmured, standing and letting her lead him toward the hallway.


    As they disappeared around the corner, Yelena glanced back at Domino and Eileen, her expression screaming - you owe me for this.


    The door clicked shut behind them, leaving the two women alone in the living room. Domino exhaled loudly, her body sagging against Eileen in exaggerated relief. "Crisis averted."


    Eileen snorted softly, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "For now."


    Domino tilted her head back to look up at Eileen, her dark eyes glittering with mischief. "You know, we should really thank sex for its tireless service. Saved us all from living on Hammeropolis or something."


    Eileen raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching as she tried to suppress a laugh. "And how exactly do you propose we thank sex?"


    Domino didn''t answer with words. Instead, she leaned up and pressed her lips to Eileen''s, her kiss slow and teasing, a murmur slipping through their joined mouths. "I have a few ideas."


    <hr>


    Meanwhile, San Francisco.


    Darren Cross moved through the grand halls of his mansion with a storm of frustration swirling inside him. The ornate architecture, all sharp angles and gleaming surfaces, only served to irritate him further at the moment. Everything was pristine, flawless, but it felt hollow - a reflection of the control he no longer had over his life.


    "Frozen out," Darren muttered under his breath, his voice a low growl as he marched toward the basement. "Stark, Banner, and Hammer think they can sideline me? Take my work? Take what I''ve built?" His jaw clenched, his hand tightening around the paper coffee cup he carried. The bitter liquid was lukewarm now, but he barely noticed. "I''ll show them. I''ll remind them why Darren Cross isn''t someone to underestimate."


    He reached the staircase leading down to his private vault, a spiral of polished steel. The faint hum of hidden security systems buzzed in the background, a sound Darren usually found comforting. Tonight, it felt oppressive. He paused briefly, setting the coffee cup on the ledge beside the first security checkpoint.


    "Authorization: Darren Cross," He said flatly, placing his hand on the biometric scanner. A faint blue light swept over his palm, and the door clicked open with a soft hiss. He glanced at the cup as the door slid aside, intending to pick it back up once he stepped through.


    But when he turned to grab it, the cup was gone.


    Darren blinked, frowning. "What the¡­?" He scanned the ledge, but there was nothing there. For a moment, he stood frozen, confusion knitting his brow. "I must''ve forgotten it upstairs," He muttered, shaking his head. The thought didn''t sit right - he was certain he''d brought it down - but he dismissed it, pushing through the door.


    The second checkpoint required a retinal scan. Darren leaned forward, aligning his eye with the scanner. A red beam flickered across his iris, and a soft chime confirmed his identity. The door slid open, revealing a narrow corridor lined with metallic walls and glowing floor panels, doorways leading to different rooms holding his experiments with the pym particles.


    He walked briskly, his footsteps muffled on the carpeted floor. As he moved, he glanced back over his shoulder, a habit born of years of paranoia. The hallway behind him was empty, he was sure of it, so why did he feel so¡­ He quickened his pace, dismissing the uneasy feeling growing in his chest.


    The third checkpoint loomed ahead: a massive, reinforced door that required a numbered code, a secondary handprint scan, and a vocal command with a separate passcode. Darren approached it with the confidence of routine, entering the code with practiced precision. His palm pressed against the scanner, the cold surface smooth beneath his touch as he spoke loudly and clearly,


    "Hope Van Dyne." His voice steady despite the faint prickle of unease at the back of his neck.


    The door unlocked with a mechanical thunk, the heavy bolts retracting as the circular portal slid open. Darren stepped inside his vault, exhaling slowly as the familiar sight of his sanctuary greeted him. Shelves lined the walls, meticulously organized with notes, prototypes, and fragments of his research. At the center of the room stood the safe - a gleaming behemoth of reinforced steel that housed his most valuable possession - the Ant-Man suit.


    Darren moved toward the workbench, his eyes scanning the neatly arranged tools and components. He ran a hand over the cool surface, picking up a small device - a prototype he''d been tinkering with for weeks. It was light in his hand, its polished surface glinting under the overhead lights.


    But when he set it down and turned away, he heard a faint clink. He froze, his brow furrowing. Turning back to the workbench, he stared at the spot where the device had been. It was gone.


    "What the hell?" Darren muttered, his voice tinged with irritation. He glanced around the room, his eyes darting to the shelves and the floor. "Where did it go?"


    Had he been mistaken?


    He stepped back, scanning the room more thoroughly. His gaze lingered on the doorway for a moment, but there was nothing - no sign of intrusion, no flicker of movement. Shaking his head, he let out a frustrated sigh. "I''m overtired," He muttered, rubbing his temples. "That''s all. I''m just¡­ Tired."


    As he walked toward the safe, the feeling of unease deepened. He couldn''t shake the sensation that he was being watched. The air felt heavier, charged with something he couldn''t identify. Darren forced himself to focus, entering the code for the safe with deliberate precision. The lock disengaged with a soft click, and the door swung open.


    Inside, the Ant-Man suit gleamed under the lights, its black and red design a holdover from when Hank gave it to him, he''d have to change it of course, so it fit better with Darren''s brilliance. He smiled faintly, his earlier frustration momentarily eclipsed by pride. "They think they can push me out," He murmured, reaching toward the suit. "But they don''t understand the power I -"


    A faint noise behind him made him freeze. It was subtle, like the whisper of fabric brushing against metal. Darren turned sharply, his heart pounding as his eyes swept the room. Nothing. The space was as still and silent as it had been moments ago.


    "Get a grip," He muttered, exhaling sharply. He turned back to the safe, his hand reaching for the suit - only to find the compartment empty.


    His stomach dropped. The suit was gone.


    "No, no, no," Darren whispered, his voice rising with panic. He stepped back, his eyes darting around the room. "It was just here! It was right here!"


    He grabbed at his belt, fumbling for the gun he always carried since Hope and Hank both died so close together. But when his hand touched the holster, it was empty. Darren''s heart raced as he stared down at the bare leather strap. "What the hell is going on?" He muttered, his voice shaking.


    A flicker of movement caught his eye, and he turned toward the workbench. The device he''d been holding earlier was back, sitting neatly where he''d left it. Darren took a step closer, his breath coming in shallow gasps. He reached out hesitantly, his fingers brushing against the smooth surface.


    Another noise - this time from the safe. Darren spun around, his pulse thundering in his ears. The Ant-Man suit was back, resting in the safe as if it had never been gone.


    Darren stared at it, his chest heaving. His mind raced, desperately trying to rationalize what was happening. "I''m hallucinating," He said aloud, his voice cracking. "I''ve been working too hard. That''s all this is."


    He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath in an attempt to steady himself. When he opened them again, the suit was gone again.


    "What is happening!?" Darren screamed, his voice echoing through the vault.


    A soft, mocking laugh answered him.


    <hr>


    Same night, Hammer''s Space station.


    The office space aboard the Hammer space station had a sprawling view of Earth framed by reinforced glass. Justin lounged in a high-backed chair, his fingers steepled under his chin as he reviewed a holographic map hovering over his desk. Next to him, Sunil Bakshi leaned forward, his sharp suit impeccable as always, as he processed Information through his mental implant.


    "Reports from the western border indicate NATO has Russia boxed in nicely," Sunil said, his voice clipped and professional. "The economic sanctions are bleeding them, but they''ve been relying heavily on whatever resources they can trade with China. And on China''s side -" He gestured at the eastern section of the map, glowing faintly with overlays of military activity, " - India, Japan, South Korea, and the U.S. are holding the line blocking them in. For now."


    Justin nodded, his expression unreadable as he studied the map. "China and Russia propping each other up, huh? Like two drunks leaning on each other to stay upright." He leaned back in his chair, his tone laced with dry amusement. "It''s almost poetic."


    "Perhaps," Sunil allowed, adjusting his tie. "But it''s effective. They''re coordinating logistics and funneling resources to each other. It''s keeping their regimes afloat."


    Justin''s lip curled into a faint smirk. "It won''t last. You can only gun down so many protesters before the dam breaks. Civil unrest is a slow burn, but eventually, it''ll consume them."


    Sunil''s brows knit together as he considered Justin''s words. "We could expedite that process," He offered carefully. "Position ourselves, help the rebels succeed. Step in when things get to a head, and we''ll have an easier time installing regimes that answer to us."


    Justin let out a soft chuckle, the sound devoid of warmth. "Saviors? Sunil, we''ll be seen as saviors no matter when we step in. The world has a short memory and a long history of bending the knee to whoever''s left standing." He waved a dismissive hand. "No need to waste money and resources playing the hero here. Let the ingrates stew in their mess until they''re desperate for a helping hand and beg us to take over."


    Before Sunil could respond, the room''s ambient lighting shifted faintly, signaling an unexpected intrusion. Justin straightened slightly, his keen eyes narrowing. In a shimmer of golden light, a figure materialized in the room. Tall and regal, Lady Freijya exuded an effortless grace, her flowing robes shifting like liquid starlight. Her smile was warm, but the sharp glint in her eyes suggested a depth of mischief that instantly put Justin on alert.


    Justin rose slowly, smoothing the lapels of his suit. "Lady Freijya¡­" His tone was cautious but respectful.


    "Relax, Mr. Hammer," Freijya said, her melodic voice tinged with amusement. She raised a hand in a placating gesture. "I''m only a projection. I haven''t broken into your little fortress." She winked, the gesture almost playful.


    He didn''t trust a woman who came to him like this, all smiles and playfulness. Something was definitely wrong. She was even worse than she''d been at the negotiations, when they''d met in person.


    He really wished Thor would pick up his balls and really be King. Then he could negotiate so much easier.


    Sunil, who had frozen the moment she appeared, glanced toward Justin, silently seeking permission to excuse himself. Justin gave a small shake of his head, his attention firmly on Freijya.


    "What can I do for you, Lady Freijya?" Justin asked, his voice even.


    Freijya''s smile widened slightly as she clasped her hands before her. "I wanted to inform you that my son, Thor, has taken possession of a rather sizable Ravager vessel. He will be bringing it to Midgard as part of our arrangement. It should arrive within a month."


    Justin inclined his head. "I never doubted you would honor the deal," He said smoothly. "Thank you for the update."


    Freijya''s smile took on a mischievous edge, her eyes twinkling. "There''s another matter I wanted to discuss," She said, her tone casual yet pointed.


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his unease carefully masked. "And what would that be?"


    Freijya''s grin grew as she tilted her head slightly. "Your relationship with Hela."


    Justin''s carefully neutral expression faltered, his jaw tightening imperceptibly. "There is no relationship with Hela," He said carefully, his words measured.


    Freijya chuckled, a rich, warm sound that carried a hint of amusement. "Carnal relationships often evolve into more," She said with a knowing smile.


    Justin''s eyebrow twitched, and his voice dipped with irritation. "What favor would I need to grant to be allowed to pluck Heimdall''s eyeballs out?" He asked dryly.


    Goddamn voyeur.


    Freijya''s laughter bubbled forth, genuine and unrestrained. "Ah, don''t be upset, Heimdall can''t help but see all." She didn''t answer his question, taking amusement from his irritation.


    Justin exhaled sharply, his shoulders stiff. "I assume Heimdall also felt the need to share any other observations."


    Freijya gave a small shrug, her smile turning enigmatic. "He is thorough in his duties."


    He would have to find a way around that¡­


    Before Justin could respond again, Freijya''s expression shifted, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied him. "But all of that, is not why I''m here. I must admit, I''m curious about something."


    Justin nodded slowly, his wariness growing. "Of course, Lady Freijya. Ask away."


    Her smile was as sharp as it was serene, her gaze steady. "What part of the deal to keep Hela on Midgard entails tasking her with roaming the cosmos?"


    Justin''s polished demeanor slipped for the briefest of moments. Sunil, who had been doing his best to remain inconspicuous, suddenly looked like he wished he could evaporate.


    Justin''s lips pressed into a thin line. "Heimdall again?"


    Freijya simply nodded, her eyes closing as her smile turned razor-sharp, a picture of divine amusement laced with danger.


    <hr>

 Hearts and Minds. Mostly Minds.

    <hr>


    The shimmering projection of Lady Frejya remained as poised and regal as ever, her presence filling the room with an air of divine authority. Her expression, however, was anything but serene. The faint furrow in her brow and the sharpness in her gaze spoke volumes about her displeasure. Justin met her gaze evenly, his usual charm replaced with a cool, almost indifferent demeanor. Sunil Bakshi, seated quietly at a small table near the corner, kept his head down, doing his best to fade into the background, but wholly attentive.


    "You''re telling me," Frejya began, her voice calm but laced with steel, "That this¡­ arrangement of yours, includes allowing Hela to roam the galaxy as a marauder? And you do not see this as breaking our accord?"


    Justin raised an eyebrow, the corners of his mouth twitching into a faint smirk. "That''s exactly what I''m saying," He replied, his tone firm. "The spirit of the agreement was to keep her away from Asgard and under control. Sending her out to be a pirate does both, in a way that suits both our needs."


    Frejya''s eyes narrowed, her posture stiffening slightly. "Under control?" She repeated, her tone laced with polite disbelief. "Hela let loose, will leave a trail of death and destruction wherever she goes. And you think this satisfies the terms of our agreement?"


    "It does," He said firmly. "The alternative was keeping her on Earth, where the lack of bloodshed would have driven her mad in record time - or more likely - made her lash out and start a war. You wanted her off Asgard; I want her where she can''t endanger Earth, something I made very clear when we negotiated this accord. This solution achieves both."


    Frejya''s expression darkened almost imperceptibly, her regal facade slipping just enough to reveal the frustration simmering beneath. "And in doing so, you unleash her upon the galaxy, a weapon of chaos with your blessing. Do you not see how this undermines the trust we placed in you?"


    Justin''s jaw tightened, and his smirk faded. "Trust?" He echoed, his tone taking on an edge. "With all due respect, Lady Frejya, everything we''ve done - I''ve done - has been to defend Earth. We have not been the aggressors in this relationship." He told her, reminding her of their invasion, "We struck a deal, it had nothing to do with trust, you simply wished to use us. You''ve paid for that pleasure, but you did not pay enough to have us suffer through her insanity indefinitely. Earth''s defense trumps everything."


    Like he''d said, the spirit of the agreement was to keep her off Asgard, and they were achieving that, so Justin wasn''t about to let himself be bent over for this - Earth wasn''t the weak supplicant of Asgard¡­


    Frejya tilted her head, her sharp gaze never leaving his. "Then explain to me," She said, her voice suddenly as cold as a winter''s night, "How Hela''s reaving across the galaxy constitutes defense!"


    Justin got up and stepped around his desk, closer to her projection, his movements slow and deliberate. "Because Hela needs bloodshed as much as she needs air," He said bluntly. "And if she doesn''t get it out there, she''ll look for it here. Is that what you want? Hela rampaging across Earth, or worse, finding her way back to Asgard? I''m giving her an outlet that keeps her occupied and far away from places she can do real harm."


    Frejya''s lips pressed into a thin line, her silence speaking volumes. Justin pressed on, his voice rising slightly. "And let''s not pretend she''s going to be out there targeting innocents. Pirates, slave traders, scum of the universe. Are you saying you care more for them than the safety of Asgardian citizens?"


    Because if Hela was left to languish, she''d definitely return to her goal of conquering Asgard and killing Odin.


    Frejya''s nostrils flared slightly, but she didn''t immediately respond. Her silence was heavy, the tension in the room thick enough to cut with a knife. Sunil shifted uncomfortably in his chair, keeping his gaze firmly fixed on the table in front of him, while Justin kept his cool.


    "I understand your logic," Frejya said finally, her tone measured but still icy. "But that does not mean I am comfortable with it. You are sacrificing untold lives with this gambit, this is not what we agreed on."


    Justin''s expression hardened, his usual charm replaced with a steely resolve. "Then tell me," He said, his voice low and firm, "What''s your better idea? If you''ve got a solution that keeps Hela in check without putting Earth - or Asgard - at risk, I''m all ears."


    He already knew she had none, that''s why they''d dumped Hela on him, after all.


    There was some minute risk to challenging Asgard in this way. But his gut told him Frejya did not want a war. So it limited the amount of pressure she could put on him. Their alliance would be profitable to them both, she wouldn''t end it over the death of pirates, not if she believed Hela would stay away from Asgard.


    And from her light poking at him over his ''relationship'' with Hela, she believed, like he did, that her obsession would bring her back to Earth, instead of seeking Asgard.


    Frejya''s gaze bore into him, unflinching and unyielding. The room fell into a heavy silence as the two stared each other down, a battle of wills playing out without a single word spoken. Sunil held his breath, feeling as though even the smallest sound might shatter the fragile equilibrium, even as he catalogued Asgards ruler''s expressions for her file, for use in future negotiations.


    After what felt like an eternity, Frejya''s expression softened - just barely. She inclined her head ever so slightly, her eyes glinting with a new, unreadable emotion. "Thor will have your ship within the month," She said slowly, her tone carrying a hint of reluctant respect. "Consider this matter settled... For now. At our next negotiation, I will expect due consideration for this bending of the accord¡­"


    And with that, her projection faded into nothingness, leaving the room feeling emptier than it had moments before.


    Sunil exhaled softly, breaking the silence that followed. "She doesn''t see us as quite as quaint as before, sir," He said quietly, his voice carefully neutral.


    Justin smirked faintly, though there was little humor in it. "About time they see us as more than slightly evolved pets," He muttered.


    Within a year, two at the most. Asgard would be their lesser, not even Odin able to make up the difference.


    He''d have to send a message to the Ancient One though¡­


    Heimdall was becoming a problem.


    <hr>


    Fort Moore, Georgia.


    The sound of Bradley Doyle''s boots echoed softly in the empty hallway as he walked toward the briefing room. Everything felt different now - different from what it had been just a few months ago, before Justin Hammer had swept in and taken control of not just the military, but the entire country.


    Bradley clenched his fists at his sides as he approached the door, his thoughts racing. He''d served for over a decade, disdaining climbing the ranks, remaining as a corporal, as he refused to leave his brothers behind. He was meant to be on the ground, not behind a desk, after all.


    He''d seen a lot of changes in leadership over the years. But this? This was unlike anything he''d ever experienced. The United States wasn''t the United States anymore. The stars and stripes still flew over some buildings, sure, but everyone knew the truth - the country was now a cog in the Hammer Federation.


    Their president wasn''t even god damn American anymore! Sure they''d slapped a citizenship on him, but that''s just not how things were done in good old America, before all this bullshit.


    Bradley had resisted the idea, still did, even if he could do nothing but grouse about it. Hammer wasn''t elected. He wasn''t a general duly appointed, or a president - hell, the man wasn''t even a politician - the less said about president Bakshi, the better.


    Justin Hammer was the real ruler of America now¡­ He was a tech mogul who had somehow managed to unite the world - Bradley still wasn''t sure how that had happened so quickly - tearing down governments and absorbing them into his corporate empire. It was surreal, like something out of one of those dystopian sci-fi movies he used to watch with his buddies during downtime.


    Bradley paused outside the briefing room, staring at the Hammer Industries logo etched into the glass door. A sleek "H" in gold stamped on a globe. The symbol of a new world order. His stomach twisted. This isn''t what I signed up for, he thought.


    But what could he do? He was one man, just a cog in a much larger machine. Resisting wasn''t an option - not when the Hammer Federation was already so vast, so overwhelming in its reach. Besides, there were¡­ Benefits. The world was more stable than it had ever been. Crime rates were down. Wars between nations were a thing of the past, barring Russia and China. Poverty and hunger were on the brink of eradication.


    So why does this feel wrong? Bradley shook his head, clearing the thought as he pushed open the door and stepped inside.


    He knew why it felt wrong.


    You could put all the lipstick on a pig you wanted - it didn''t change the fact it was a pig.


    America should not be like this. World peace was not worth their freedoms being taken away.


    ¡­


    The briefing was short and to the point. They were being reorganized. The military as he knew it was being stripped down and rebuilt from the ground up. Everyone, from the greenest recruits to the most seasoned officers, would undergo retraining. They''d be learning to use Hammer tech, integrating it into every facet of their operations. And it wouldn''t be a simple classroom experience - they were introducing a VR program that would immerse them completely.


    Bradley didn''t understand what that meant at first. He nodded along with his commanding officer''s explanation, pretending to follow, but it wasn''t until he was escorted to the VR pods that the reality began to sink in. Rows of sleek pods lined the walls of a cavernous warehouse, each one humming faintly with energy. Soldiers climbed inside one by one, their expressions a mix of curiosity and apprehension.


    The instructors warned them that the simulations were deeply immersive - time-dilated, they called it - and that they''d feel as though they spent years inside the program.


    Some soldiers weren''t impressed, recognizing that this was technology used in prisons. But in the end, they were soldiers, and if the brass had signed off on this, all they could do was complete the training to the best of their abilities.


    When it was his turn, Bradley hesitated. He stood before the open pod, staring at the padded interior filled with some sort of gel. The tech looked almost alien, with glowing circuits running along the edges and a visor-like mechanism that would cover his eyes once he was inside.


    "Doyle," His CO barked. "Get in. It''s not optional."


    Bradley swallowed hard, nodding as he climbed inside. The pod hissed shut around him, sealing him in darkness. For a moment, he panicked, his heart hammering against his ribs. Then the visor lowered, and everything changed.


    ¡­


    The first thing Bradley noticed was the sun. It was blindingly bright, beating down on him with an intensity that made his skin prickle. He squinted, raising a hand to shield his eyes, and realized he was standing in the middle of a desert. He looked down at himself, startled to see that he was wearing a suit of futuristic armor, the Hammer Industries logo emblazoned on the chest plate.


    "What the hell?" He muttered, turning in a slow circle.


    The desert stretched endlessly in every direction, but he wasn''t alone. A squad of soldiers stood nearby, all clad in similar armor. They looked at him expectantly, their faces unfamiliar hidden by the face masks and visors, but somehow familiar at the same time.


    "Doyle," One of them called out. "You good?"


    Bradley blinked. He knew that voice. It belonged to Rodriguez, one of his squadmates back in the real world. But this didn''t feel like a simulation. The heat of the sun, the grit of the sand under his boots - it was all too real.


    Before he could respond, the comms in his helmet crackled to life. "Doyle, get your head in the game. We''ve got hostiles inbound. Move!"


    The next few hours were a blur of action. Bradley fought alongside his squad, learning how to use the new Hammer tech through trial and error. The suit enhanced his strength and reflexes, making him faster, stronger, and deadlier than he''d ever been before. The weapons were unlike anything he''d used in his military career - energy rifles that fired precise, devastating beams of light; drones that deployed with a flick of his wrist, providing aerial support; and grenades that emitted EMP pulses, disabling enemy equipment in an instant.


    For what felt like decades, he lived a second life. The VR world was utterly convincing - the heat of explosions, the recoil of Hammer''s advanced plasma rifles, the tension of planning operations against simulated enemies. He was taught to use Hammer''s technology not through lectures or manuals but by doing. He piloted drones, navigated orbital strikes, and fought beside enhanced units that moved with superhuman speed. He didn''t just learn tactics - he lived them.


    Not all of it was fighting either, they dealt with disaster relief, aid work, and other tasks that would safeguard their fellow man. They were kept so busy, that the few lectures and classes they were forced to take inside the VR world, was almost a relief.


    In the program, Bradley experienced triumph and failure. He fought and died countless times, the pain and adrenaline as real as if he were on an actual battlefield. But each death was a lesson, and he emerged stronger, more skilled, more attuned to Hammer''s way of warfare - to fighting superhumans - to being superhuman - to using HammerTech power armor. He did it all.


    By the time the simulation ended, Bradley felt like he''d spent at least a decade in that world. When the visor lifted and the pod hissed open, he stumbled out, blinking in the harsh fluorescent light of the warehouse. His legs felt weak, his mind disoriented.


    "How long¡­?" He croaked, his voice hoarse.


    "Thirty days," His CO said, clapping him on the shoulder. "Welcome back, Doyle. You''ve completed the Patriot program."


    Thirty days. A single month. Bradley stared at his hands, his mind reeling. It didn''t seem possible. How could thirty days feel like years? And yet¡­ It made sense. He felt different. More certain of his purpose.


    Changes had swept through the military with efficiency that bordered on ruthlessness during his time under. Old units were disbanded, ranks and designations shuffled. The insignias of the U.S. Armed Forces were replaced with the logo of Hammer Industries. Gone were the stars and stripes on his uniform; in their place was the symbol of the Hammer Federation and Hammer Industries.


    Having spent a decade fighting under that same flag, it felt¡­ Right.


    ¡­


    Later that day, Bradley sat in the mess hall with Rodriguez and the rest of his squad. The room buzzed with conversation, the sound of laughter and clinking trays filling the air. Monitors mounted on the walls displayed the latest news, and Bradley''s attention was drawn to a report about unrest in western Russia.


    "Parts of western Russia have risen in rebellion against Moscow," The anchor said. "The rebels are demanding that Russia join the Hammer Federation, citing a desire for unity and progress. We at Fox news are happy to see the Russian people taking the steps to unite under the light of Hammer, our thoughts and prayers go out to them."


    "Serves them right," Rodriguez said, smirking as he shoveled food into his mouth. "Those alien lovers thought they could stand against Hammer. Now their own people are turning on them."


    Bradley nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. He felt a swell of pride as he watched the report. The Hammer Federation was unstoppable. It wasn''t just a government - it was a force of nature, reshaping the world for the better. Finally, Russia was seeing that.


    Hopefully the Chinese would stop being stubborn too, or the United Federation Armed Forces - the replacement for Nato, this time with the entire world joined up - would have to show them what''s what.


    "You know," Bradley said, glancing around the table. "We''ve got everything here. Training facilities, top-tier tech, even the best food I''ve ever had in the military. But there''s one thing we''re missing."


    "What''s that?" Rodriguez asked.


    "A chapel," Bradley said seriously. "For Hammer. I mean, he''s not just a man. He''s¡­ More than that. Feels wrong not to have a place to honor him."


    Rodriguez nodded thoughtfully. "You''re right. We should bring it up to command. Bet they''d listen."


    Bradley felt pleased. It would be wrong not to show their respect to the man, no, the God, they owed everything to.


    ¡­


    A few days later, Bradley found himself strapped to a gurney in the infirmary. He stared up at the ceiling, his heart pounding with a mix of nerves and excitement. This was it - the next step. The super-soldier serum.


    The medics worked efficiently, prepping him and the others in his squad. The serum was a weaker version of what had been used on Captain America, but it was still revolutionary. It would make them stronger, faster, and tougher than any soldier in history, it was even mixed with a stronger version of Panacea called Extremis. Which would give them regeneration!


    When the needle pierced his skin, Bradley gritted his teeth, bracing himself for the pain. It came almost immediately, a searing heat spreading through his veins. He gasped, his muscles tensing as the serum worked its way through his body. The pain was intense, but there was something else - something deeper. A fire ignited within him, a sense of purpose that burned brighter than ever.


    For Hammer. For the Federation. For Unity and Humanity!


    ¡­


    The day of deployment arrived with an air of anticipation. Bradley stood with his squadron, their newly issued Hammer power armor gleaming under the hangar lights. The soldiers moved with purpose, their steps synchronized as they marched toward the glowing orange portals that flickered to life before them.


    The portal operators were women clad in leather uniforms that hugged their forms tightly, their smirks suggestive as they watched the soldiers pass. One of the operators, her crimson hair glowing like fire in the portal light, winked at Bradley. "March on, boys," She said, her voice low and teasing. "Hammer''s watching."


    Bradley''s chest swelled with pride as he led his squad through the portal. They emerged in a dense jungle, the air thick with humidity and the calls of strange, alien creatures echoing around them.


    The Savage Lands. The briefing had been clear - pacify the locals, retrieve any advanced technology, and bring the region under Federation control.


    The Geneva convention had been revoked, there was no need for humanity to weaken itself against alien threats, only humans deserved rights.


    Bradley tightened his grip on his plasma rifle, his eyes scanning the lush landscape as his squad fanned out around him. They moved with precision, their enhanced senses attuned to every rustle of leaves and snap of twigs.


    This was their purpose now. To bring order to the chaos. To serve Hammer and the Federation, until one day it could be an Empire of humanity.


    Bradley smiled beneath his helmet, the weight of his weapon reassuring in his hands. Together, they would succeed. They were blessed by Hammer, after all. And no one could stand against them.


    <hr>


    The dense, humid jungle of the Savage Lands was alive with the sounds of chirping insects, distant growls, and the rustle of leaves stirred by unseen creatures. Even in the encroaching darkness of twilight, the air carried a sense of danger and mystery. Mystique, dressed in the uniform of a Hammer Federation captain, moved with practiced ease, her steps purposeful and confident. Her assumed form, that of a rugged, no-nonsense officer, was flawless, down to the faint scar tracing her cheek and the dirtiness of the uniform and armor, denoting she''d been in a scuffle.


    She''d seen the man leave to inspect another camp, and taken his form for this, knowing how eager to please soldier boys were in front of the people able to dispatch them to constant latrine duty.


    She adjusted the brim of the cap slightly, letting the shadow cast over her borrowed face add to the authority she projected. Her eyes scanned the area, taking in the camp ahead. Soldiers in Hammer-tech armor patrolled the perimeter, their movements efficient. Portable floodlights bathed the area in light, illuminating the path towards the camp.


    This wouldn''t be easy, but Mystique had infiltrated tighter operations than this. Her lips curved into a slight smirk, the satisfaction of slipping past two earlier patrols adding confidence to her stride. The disguise was perfect. All she needed was to get into the command tent, extract the information she required, and disappear before anyone knew she''d been there.


    With that information in hand, She''d be able to infiltrate the main base, and escape back into the wider world with information worth selling to whoever was interested - and someone was always interested.


    As she approached the outer perimeter, a squad of soldiers intercepted her, their armor reflecting the floodlights. Their rifles were slung low but at the ready, and their faces were obscured by their armored helmets. The leader of the group stepped forward, a red targeting lens flickering to life over one eye.


    "Captain," The soldier said, his voice filtered through a modulator. "You''re early. And on foot. Where is your squad?"


    Mystique didn''t hesitate, her posture rigid, her voice sharp. "At ease, Corporal. I''m here on special orders from HQ, my squad was ambushed and I barely got away. Stand aside and let me through."


    The soldiers didn''t move.


    A flicker of unease tickled the back of Mystique''s mind, but she squashed it. She kept her tone brisk, authoritative. "Did you not hear me? I''m on a tight schedule. Stand down and let me proceed, or I''ll have your entire squad reassigned to latrine duty for insubordination."


    The corporal tilted his head slightly, his helmet hiding whatever expression he wore. Behind him, the other soldiers shifted their stances, weapons clicking as they were adjusted ever so slightly.


    Mystique clenched her jaw but maintained her facade, pushing forward with more bluster. This has to work, they''re just jarheads. "HQ doesn''t tolerate delays, and neither do I. If you have a problem, take it up with your CO. Now move aside."


    The corporal let her finish her tirade before speaking again, his tone dripping with disdain. "You done?"


    Mystique froze, a chill running down her spine.


    The corporal raised his rifle, the blue ring at its barrel charging with a low hum. Mystique barely had time to register the sound before the shot hit her squarely in the stomach.


    Pain flared through her body, electric and searing, as she crumpled to her knees. Her hands shot out instinctively to steady herself, her vision swimming. She tried to fight the creeping blackness overtaking her, but her body betrayed her, muscles locking and nerves screaming.


    Her disguise began to falter. The captain''s face shimmered, then melted away like watercolors in the rain. Her true form emerged, her blue skin and bright yellow eyes now exposed under the harsh floodlights. Gasps and murmurs rippled through the soldiers.


    "She''s a shifter," One of them said, stepping back slightly.


    "Not just any shifter," Another replied, his tone cold. "That''s Mystique, a priority A target. Stupid enough to just walk straight up to us."Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    The corporal lowered his rifle, stepping closer to the crumpled figure at his feet. "HQ warned us you''d try something like this," He muttered, his voice low but filled with satisfaction. "We have ways to detect shape-shifting, Hammer industries knows you, fool woman."


    Mystique groaned, her head lolling as she struggled against the paralysis. Her fingers twitched weakly, but her limbs refused to obey her commands.


    The corporal knelt down, tilting his helmeted head as he stared at her. "You''re not as clever as you think, are you? Passive scans caught you the moment you crossed the perimeter. You really thought you could just waltz in here? That our God had not thought of countermeasures?"


    Mystique''s lips curled into a weak snarl, but she lacked the strength to respond.


    The corporal straightened, signaling to his squad. "Secure her. HQ will want her alive."


    Two soldiers stepped forward, their boots crunching against the dirt. They hoisted Mystique''s limp body between them, her head lolling forward as she fought to stay conscious.


    Mystique''s vision soon darkened, her mind racing even as her body betrayed her. She''d underestimated them¡­


    Then the darkness claimed her.


    <hr>


    April 25th, 2010, Hammerhaven.


    Justin sat in the soft glow of candlelight, the private dining room in Hammerhaven was a place of luxury and intimate elegance. The room, perched high above the sprawling metropolis of his creation, offered a breathtaking view of the glittering cityscape below.


    It was still not quite as beautiful a sight as what was before him.


    Yelena sat across from him, dressed in a sensual little black dress that managed to be both simple and devastatingly alluring. Her sharp eyes were filled with fondness as she twirled a fork in her hand, playing with her food more than eating it as she casually let her bare foot run up his leg under the table.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, swirling the glass of deep red wine in his hand. "You know, my darling," He began with a teasing smirk, "I can''t remember the last time I had a quiet dinner. Do you ever think we should do this more often? Just you and me, away from the world?"


    Yelena arched an eyebrow, a wry grin tugging at her lips. "You mean away from your endless meetings, plans for world domination, and - what was it you said last week? ''Bringing humanity into the future, one hostile takeover at a time''?"


    Justin chuckled, raising his glass in mock acknowledgment, showing no sign on his face that he noticed Yelena''s foot trailing higher. "I know you think I''m not being serious. But, my dear, I am. With the spaceship soon to be arriving, we''re so very close to seeing Earth defended properly. And what better way to spend it, then with you?"


    She laughed, the sound warm and melodic, as she finally speared a piece of roasted duck from her plate. "Well, consider yourself lucky, then, Justin. Not everyone gets to enjoy my sparkling company so often, and you have me all to yourself..." She smirked, her foot finding its goal, "I''m glad you''re finally taking advantage¡­"


    Justin smirked. "Oh, believe me, I count my blessings every day."


    Yelena leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand as she regarded him with a playful glint in her eyes. "Speaking of blessings, I''ve got one for you. My dear sister Natasha," She said, her tone dripping with mock seriousness, "Is officially my bitch now. Completely under my thumb. And, as a generous sister, I''d be happy to ~share."


    Justin nearly choked on his wine, coughing as he set the glass down. "Excuse me?" He tried to ignore how easily Yelena''s foot managed to undo his zipper.


    Yelena laughed so hard she had to set her fork down, her shoulders shaking. "Oh, come on, Justin. You''ve been with her before. What''s the harm in revisiting an old flame? Think of it as deep, hard, nostalgia."


    Justin shook his head, still coughing slightly as he gave her an incredulous look. "Been there, done that, Yelena. Not happening. She might not be able to kill me anymore, but it wouldn''t make things anymore pleasant. She hates me."


    Times like these were reminders of the fact this woman enjoyed finding other women for him, delighted in sharing in the pleasure.


    A joy, most times, to be sure. But her sister wasn''t high on his list of people to be reacquainted with.


    Yelena pouted, her lips forming a perfect mockery of disappointment. "But Justin," She drawled, resting a hand on her - very slightly - distended stomach, "I want my future kid to have a cute niece or nephew to play with. You''d be doing me a favor."


    Justin leaned forward, pointing a fork at her. "Nice try, but no. Not even for you."


    Her grin turned sly as she leaned back in her chair, clearly enjoying his discomfort. "Fine, fine. I''ll let it go - for now."


    The conversation shifted to lighter topics after that, the two of them falling into an easy rhythm. They teased each other about everything from Yelena''s habit of stealing Justin''s shirts to wear around Hammerhaven to Justin''s inability to cook anything more complicated than toast due to getting lost in plans and improvements.


    The atmosphere was relaxed, the kind of rare moment where the weight of their responsibilities and the chaos of their lives seemed to fade away.


    Until Nail appeared.


    The holographic figure of Justin''s AI assistant materialized at the head of the table, her form flickering slightly as she bowed her head. "Apologies for the interruption, sir. I have urgent news."


    Justin sighed, setting his utensils down and leaning back in his chair. "This better be good, Nail."


    Nail''s expression was as composed as ever, though there was a faint edge to her tone. "We''ve encountered unexpected resistance in the Savage Land. The locals are utilizing celestial technology to fight back. A division of former U.S. soldiers has been lost."


    Justin waved a hand dismissively. "No loss. There''s more where they came from. What''s the status of the resources?"


    Nail straightened slightly, her holographic form becoming more solid. "We''ve identified sources of both adamantium and vibranium within the region. Additionally, we''ve captured Mystique, who attempted to infiltrate our forces by impersonating a captain."


    Justin arched an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "Mystique, huh? What''s she doing down there exactly?"


    He''d suspected she was hiding out there, but he''d had no idea for what reason¡­ Adamantium perhaps. He hadn''t missed that¡­


    A very interesting find. Perhaps the celestial tech was behind that wonder metal?


    Now he wanted the Savage Land conquered even more - where it had mostly been a whim of his before - to see if any useful celestial tech remained¡­


    "Unclear," Nail replied. "She was found to have camped near one of the celestial relics. Orders?"


    Justin tapped his fingers on the table, his expression thoughtful. "Hand her over to Helen Cho. She''ll know what to do. Focus on securing the resources and bringing back the tech."


    Perhaps Mystique could be turned, but really, she wasn''t that important in the grand scheme of things. He''d let Helen experiment a bit, and then see if Mystique wanted an out.


    Yelena, who had been watching the exchange with mild annoyance, suddenly sat up straighter drawing Nails attention. Her expression shifted to one of dangerous curiosity as she interrupted them both. "Nail, we have a gynoid body developed at this stage, right?"


    Justin turned to her, his brow furrowing. "What are you up to?"


    He knew she enjoyed him fucking other women, but he had no intention of going after robots, and Nail was more like a daughter, or a creation of his, then anything else.


    Nail hesitated for a fraction of a second before responding. "Yes, Miss. It has full sensory output but has not undergone proper testing."


    Yelena''s lips curved into a smile that was equal parts mischievous and menacing. "Good. Nail, you interrupted this date with pointless information that Sunil could have handled for Justin. I expect you to inhabit that body and report to my quarters for a spanking after this dinner."


    Justin''s eyebrows shot up, and he stared at Yelena in stunned silence. "Wait, what?"


    What was even happening right now?


    Nail, to Justin''s utter disbelief, bowed her head subserviently. "Yes, Mommy."


    At Yelena''s shocked gasp, and the smile that bloomed up on her face, Justin sent Nail a dry look, his AI was getting scary good at reading a room.


    "You''re still getting a spanking." Yelena said through teary eyes. A smirk on her face, even as she rubbed her belly again.


    Just not good enough yet, Justin thought, laughing inwardly at the apprehensive look on Nails holographic face.


    <hr>


    New York,


    Gwen Stacy shifted her weight from one foot to the other, glancing at the seemingly endless line snaking around the block in front of the HammerTech store. The sun was warm on her back, but the impatience bubbling inside her was enough to keep her restless. She craned her neck to see how far the line moved, her excitement battling with her irritation.


    The buzz in the air was almost tangible. People of all ages stood in line, chatting animatedly about the neural links Hammer Industries was giving out for free. Gwen''s thoughts raced as she considered the sheer magnitude of what this would mean for the world. Free neural links - even the basic model - meant that anyone could connect to the Hammerweb with their mind. No need for devices, no more limitations. It was a revolution in technology, a new way of thinking, literally.


    She adjusted the strap of her bag, her fingers brushing against the edge of the flyer she''d picked up earlier that morning. It detailed the neural link''s capabilities: seamless connectivity, instant access to information, and the ability to communicate ideas across the globe with the speed of thought. Gwen smiled to herself, her mind already leaping ahead to the possibilities.


    This was how humanity would truly unite.


    Imagine a world where people could share ideas instantly, she thought. Where scientists from different countries could collaborate without language barriers, where students could absorb knowledge directly from experts thousands of miles away. The sheer potential for growth, for understanding, for peace - it was staggering.


    She glanced at the people in line, her heart swelling with hope. This wasn''t just about the cool technology - it was about bridging divides, fostering connections. People would see each other for who they really were, beyond borders and politics. And Hammer Industries, for all the skepticism some people threw their way, was making it happen. They weren''t just about profits - they were about progress.


    Why else would they give away free, something that would eventually make the H-phone obsolete?


    Sure the neural link at the most basic configuration, couldn''t make phone calls or run apps, so the phone industry was safe, for now.


    But anyone could see that this would one day replace them, and Hammer Industries were giving it away for free, showing they were not an evil corporation only concerned with profit.


    She was pulled out of her reverie by the girl standing ahead of her in line making an exclamation as she watched a video. The girl had shaggy black hair under a beanie and a bored expression, chewing gum as she lazily scrolled through her H-Phone. Gwen smiled, feeling the need to share her excitement.


    "This is amazing, isn''t it?" Gwen said, her voice bright with enthusiasm. "The neural links are going to change everything. Imagine how this could connect people, how we can share ideas instantly. It''s like... It''s like the entire world will finally be able to think together."


    The girl turned her head slightly, raising an eyebrow. She popped her gum loudly, her tone deadpan as she replied, "Oh, you''re right. Except, like, totally replace all of that with the words sex and porn."


    Gwen blinked, her smile faltering. "What? No, that''s not - "


    "Come on," The girl interrupted, gesturing vaguely at the line. "Look around. You think these people are here to share world-changing ideas? Nah, they''re here because immersive porn is gonna be a thing now. The neural link? It''s just the next big sex toy." She smirked, folding her arms.


    Gwen stared at her, flabbergasted. "That''s ridiculous. There''s so much more to it than that. This is about connectivity, about learning, expanding our minds. I mean, my boyfriend Peter got one straight from Hammer Industries, and he''s been using it to study. He''s already learning so much more than he could from just books or online classes."


    The girl snorted, clearly unimpressed. "Your boyfriend sounds like either the biggest nerd ever, or you have no idea what kind of kinky shit he''s actually up to."


    Gwen felt her cheeks heat up, her frustration bubbling over. "That''s not true," She snapped, crossing her arms. "He''s a brilliant student, and he''s using this technology to better himself. Unlike you, apparently."


    The girl shrugged, unbothered by Gwen''s indignation. "Whatever you say, princess." She pointed at her own head, "But this girl is about to orgasm with her mind only, and that will beat your science nonsense any day."


    Huffing, Gwen turned away, determined to ignore her. She refused to let the girl''s cynicism and pervertedness dampen her excitement. People like her just couldn''t see the bigger picture. The neural link was a gift, a leap forward for humanity. Sure, the free version was basic - but the ability to access information and ideas with just a thought? That was revolutionary.


    She glanced at the line again, her annoyance fading as she thought about the generosity of Hammer Industries again. Giving out the cheapest models for free? It wasn''t about making money. It was about bringing people together, giving everyone a chance to be part of this new era. That''s what made Hammer different from the old tech giants like Apple or Google. This wasn''t just business - it was a vision.


    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Gwen reached the front of the line. The interior of the HammerTech store was filled with holographic displays showcasing the neural link''s features. She was guided to a comfortable chair by a technician, who gave her a reassuring smile as they prepared her for the procedure.


    "It''s quick and painless," The technician said, scrubbing the area behind her ear with disinfectant. "You''ll barely feel a thing."


    Gwen nodded, her heart racing with anticipation. The device itself was small, almost unnoticeable - a tiny implant that would connect her brain to the Hammerweb. The technician pressed it against her skin, and Gwen felt a slight pressure, then a faint warmth as the neural link was installed.


    "That''s it," The technician said, stepping back. "All done."


    Gwen touched the spot behind her ear, marveling at how simple it had been. Minor brain surgery, done in less than a minute. She smiled broadly, thanking the technician before skipping out of the store, her excitement bubbling over.


    As she stepped onto the sidewalk, she decided to test it out. She focused on the thought of a map of the area. Instantly, her vision filled with a glowing holographic display, a detailed map appearing before her eyes. She gasped in delight, opening her eyes to find the map seamlessly overlaid onto her surroundings, like a video game HUD.


    "This is amazing," She whispered, her heart racing. She picked a restaurant at random, watching as a glowing path appeared on the sidewalk, guiding her way. It was like living in the future, a dream made real.


    She giggled, practically skipping down the street as she followed the path. This was the beginning of something incredible. The world was changing, and she was thrilled to be a part of it. In this new era, anything was possible.


    Gwen loved living in this world - a world shaped by Hammer Industries.


    <hr>


    Same time, New York,


    Peter Parker kind of hated living in this world - a world shaped by Hammer Industries.


    Peter crouched on the edge of a Queens rooftop, the chill air brushing against the exposed parts of his face. The city spread out before him in a symphony of light and sound - honking car horns, the murmur of voices from nearby apartments, and the occasional laughter spilling out of a nearby diner. He chewed slowly on a piece of shawarma, savoring the rich flavors as he watched the city below.


    If there was one good thing about the world shaped by Hammer Industries, it was this - shawarma on demand. If he was honest, the link only redeemed itself in moments like this, and for the paperwork¡­


    Oh god, there was so much paperwork.


    He didn''t need his hands to type up the endless reports Hammer''s hero sponsorship program demanded. No, instead, he used his mind. Every chew of his meal accompanied a silent click in his head as he filled out forms. Thoughts transformed into words that flowed onto virtual documents, all dictated by the mental gymnastics he''d learned since signing on with Hammer''s program.


    Being an independent hero sponsored by Hammer Industries had seemed like such a great idea at first. They offered backup, resources, lawyers to handle sticky situations, and even expense accounts to cover things like web fluid and shawarma binges. Not bad for a kid from Queens with a penchant for helping people.


    He''d even heard whispers about a hero school in the works - an actual place where kids with powers or aspiring crimefighters could learn the ropes in a controlled, structured environment. It was a dream come true¡­ On paper.


    But Peter had quickly learned there was a dark, evil side. Well, maybe not evil - he''d reserve that term for actual supervillains - but definitely annoying.


    Paperwork.


    Mountains of it.


    Everything he did required forms. Arrest someone? There was a form for that, requiring detailed explanations of why he''d acted, what the suspect had done, what evidence he''d gathered, and whether anyone had gotten hurt in the process. He''d thought catching purse snatchers and stopping muggers was hard work, but it turned out the real fight came afterward - facing a blank report template staring at him like a cruel joke.


    Sure, the neural link made it easier. He could type out forms while eating shawarma or swinging between buildings. But it still sucked the fun out of being Spider-Man. The thrill of zipping through the city, the rush of outmaneuvering bad guys - all of it came to a screeching halt when he had to sit down and document everything he''d done.


    Peter took another bite of shawarma and sighed inwardly. Yesterday''s debacle still rankled. He''d saved a kitten from a tree - a good deed that had taken all of ten seconds. But today, he''d gotten a notice in his inbox - a ten percent reduction to his expense account until he submitted the report.


    For saving a kitten. From a tree.


    It wasn''t even a big tree.


    He finished the shawarma and leaned back slightly, resting his weight on one hand as he stared up at the clouds. If he didn''t know better, he''d think Hammer Industries was trying to bog independent heroes down with busywork. Maybe they wanted them filling out forms and attending school instead of being out in the field or causing trouble?


    But no, he reminded himself, Hammer Industries were the good guys. They had to be. They''d done more for the world in the last year than most governments had in decades. Poverty was on the brink of extinction. People had access to clean water, education, and opportunities that had seemed like distant dreams before. The neural link itself was proof of their good intentions - connecting humanity in ways no one had ever thought possible.


    Peter couldn''t argue with the results. The world was better off. But sometimes¡­


    He heard the wail of a siren in the distance and stiffened, his head snapping toward the source. A police car raced down the street, its red and blue lights flashing against the building facades.


    Peter sighed. Work never ended.


    He hadn''t even thought of it as work before. Stupid paperwork¡­


    He stood, brushing crumbs off his suit before slipping his mask back over his face. He tugged the fabric into place and adjusted the lenses, his mind already calculating his remaining supply of web fluid. He''d have to include that in his next report, too.


    Amount of web fluid used for the day. He could already picture the line item on his form, glaring at him with bureaucratic indifference.


    Peter fired a web at a nearby rooftop and launched himself into the air, swinging gracefully between the skyscrapers and apartment buildings. The rush of wind against him was exhilarating, and for a brief moment, he felt free. But even as he soared through the city, the weight of responsibility lingered in the back of his mind.


    He couldn''t help but think about how things used to be. Back then, it was just him, his suit, and his wits against the bad guys. No paperwork, no rules, no neural links. Just Spider-Man, doing what he did best - saving people.


    But now, every move he made was monitored, recorded, and analyzed. He couldn''t so much as sneeze in his suit without someone from Hammer''s oversight committee filing a query. And while the expense account was nice, it came with strings attached - strings that felt like they were tightening around him every day.


    Gwen was thrilled about it all, so he couldn''t even speak up about it without causing issues.


    He spotted the source of the sirens - a jewelry store with shattered glass littering the sidewalk. Two figures in ski masks were bolting down the street, clutching bulging sacks in their hands. Peter narrowed his eyes and swung down, firing webs at the nearest lamppost to slow his descent.


    "Hey, fellas!" He called out as he landed gracefully in front of them, blocking their path. "What''s the rush? Got a hot date, or just feeling nostalgic for jail food?"


    The thieves skidded to a halt, one of them fumbling for a weapon while the other turned to run. Peter didn''t give them a chance to make a move. He fired a web at the fleeing thief''s legs, yanking him off his feet. The other one raised a crowbar, but Peter ducked easily under the swing and disarmed him with a quick flick of his wrist.


    "Pro tip," Peter said, his tone light. "If you''re going to rob a place in broad daylight, maybe don''t leave your getaway car parked so far away, I know it''s New York traffic, but come on man."


    He webbed the pair together and stepped back, admiring his handiwork. Another job well done. But even as he stood there, the familiar dread began to creep in, even as the cops approached, giving him a respectful nod.


    Another report to fill out, he thought bitterly. Two perps, one crowbar, shattered glass¡­ He mentally ran through the checklist, already composing the details in his head.


    He swung up to a nearby rooftop and perched on the edge, watching as the officers secured the scene.


    For a brief moment, he allowed himself to feel proud. He''d done good work tonight. He''d stopped a crime, helped the police, and ensured the city was just a little bit safer.


    But then the neural link chimed softly in his head, reminding him of the unfinished report waiting for him. Peter groaned, the sound muffled by his mask.


    Another day, another mountain of paperwork.


    He fired another web and swung off into the night, wondering - not for the first time - if this was really the future he''d signed up for.


    <hr>


    Hammerhaven, the next day.


    The shadowed corridors of Hammerhaven were silent, save for the faint hum of the security systems. Felicia Hardy - the Black Cat - moved through the space like liquid shadow, her movements fluid and purposeful.


    Her snow-white hair gleamed faintly in the dim light, framing a face that was equal parts mischief and allure. She wore her signature skintight black suit, the material hugging every curve as if painted onto her body. The white fur trim at her wrists and neckline added a touch of style to her otherwise practical attire, and her black domino mask accentuated her sharp green eyes, glinting with playful intent.


    Reaching Justin Hammer''s private office, she paused, crouching by the door. The lock system was sophisticated - layers of biometric and electronic security - but it wasn''t anything she couldn''t handle. A sly smile spread across her lips as she pulled a small device from her utility belt. "Really, Hammer?" She whispered to herself as the device hummed faintly, cracking the system in seconds. "I was expecting a challenge."


    A sudden slap to her ass made her jump, and she almost let out a shriek, as she twirled around, coming face to face with Yelena, who watched her, an amused look on her face, "We''ve had eyes on you since you came into the city, but it''s cute you thought so highly of yourself."


    "I just broke the lock to the door." Felicia said challengingly, feeling the pleasant sting to her ass cheek.


    How did she sneak up on me so easily?


    Yelena chuckled, "Oh, sweetie, I let you do that. Now don''t wear him out, and enjoy yourself." She smirked, making a lazy gesture at the door as she walked away.


    With a soft click, the door slid open, and the Black Cat slipped inside, putting Yelena out of her mind for now, her boots making no sound on the polished floor. The office was expansive, the epitome of modern elegance. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the cityscape below, while expensive looking black furniture and abstract art pieces gave the space a sharp, professional edge.


    Justin Hammer sat at his desk, his attention on a holographic display projecting various schematics and reports. He looked as unflappable as ever, his tailored suit impeccable, his demeanor calm and confident. Felicia took a moment to admire the scene before making her move.


    With a graceful leap, she vaulted onto his desk, her movements as smooth as silk. She landed in a crouch, one leg tucked under her, the other stretched out, her posture a deliberate display of feline allure. Slowly, she slid into a sitting position, crossing one leg over the other as she rested her elbow on her knee, her chin propped up on her hand.


    "You could have at least given me a challenge," She purred, her voice a soft, teasing lilt. She reached out with her free hand, her gloved fingers trailing lightly down the front of his suit jacket, lingering just over his chest.


    She''d been stealing information, and other things for this man for quite awhile now, and it had surprised her, his offer to come fully within the light. The enormous amount of cash on offer had certainly caught her interest too.


    Even if her task to ''join'' had been so easy she''d gotten a bit carried away.


    Justin leaned back in his chair, his smirk growing as he took in her appearance. "I could have," He said, his tone amused. "But this way seemed more fun." His gaze didn''t shy away from the way her suit clung to her body, though his expression remained composed. "How''s Cross?"


    Felicia giggled, her laughter light and melodic as she brought her hand to hide her mouth in a playful gesture. "Oh, Cross was delightful," She said, her eyes dancing with amusement. "I spent weeks stealing his little trinkets and putting them back when he wasn''t looking. You should have seen the paranoia, the panic. He was practically jumping at shadows by the end." She leaned forward slightly, a mischievous grin on her lips. "He''s dealt with now, put a gun in his own mouth to ~end it all."


    "Good kitty," Justin said, reaching out to pat her head, a pleased expression on his face.


    Felicia snapped her teeth at him playfully, her grin widening. "Careful, Hammer. This kitty bites!"


    Justin chuckled, unbothered by her antics. "And the Ant-Man suit?" He asked, his tone turning slightly more serious.


    Black Cat slid down from the desk with the same effortless grace she''d used to vault onto it, but instead of stepping away, she settled herself into his lap, her legs straddling him. She looped her arms around his neck, her lips curving into a sultry smile. "I put it exactly where you asked me to," She said, her voice a low murmur. "So¡­ Does that mean I get to be the new big hero?" She shifted slightly, her movements deliberate. "I was a good girl, wasn''t I, daddy? I deserve my treat."


    Justin let out a quiet laugh, his hands resting casually on the arms of his chair. "Yes, you''ll get a suit," He said, his tone indulgent. "Although we can''t exactly call you Ant-Man, can we?"


    She tilted her head, her expression thoughtful for a moment before she grinned. "How about Ant-Woman? No? Too on the nose?" She leaned closer, her breath warm against his ear. "Whatever you call me, I''ll make it look good, daddy."


    She could feel him reacting to her, her grin widening as she ground herself against him.


    Justin''s eyes flicked to hers, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "I don''t doubt that," He said. He could already envision her as part of his team, her agility and cunning making her a perfect fit for the technology. The thought of her wielding the suit''s abilities - shrinking, sneaking, and striking with precision - was more than a little enticing. Unlike the more heroic inclined predecessors, she''d be more likely to use the tech to its scary potential.


    "We''ll have to get a new suit made for you, we''ll figure out the name later."


    "I suppose I should be measured for it, then," Black Cat said, her voice playful. She reached for the zipper of her current suit, tugging it down just enough to tease, revealing a sliver of skin. "Wouldn''t want the fit to be off."


    Justin''s gaze remained steady, though the glint in his eyes betrayed his amusement. "You are a naughty kitty, aren''t you?"


    She smirked, her confidence radiating as she locked eyes with him. "I''m a thief," She said simply. "I see what I want, and I take it." She didn''t give him a chance to respond before she leaned in, her lips capturing his in a bold, confident kiss.


    <hr>


    Space, an asteroid field in the middle of nowhere.


    The vastness of space stretched out beyond the reinforced glass window like an endless canvas painted with pinpricks of light. The swirling hues of nebulae in the distance glowed faintly, in contrast to the cold metallic interior of the Bastion - the hollowed-out asteroid that served as both home and stronghold for T''Challa''s burgeoning Ravager fleet.


    T''Challa sat at his desk with the window behind him, his posture relaxed but his mind anything but. He wore the patched-together garb of a Ravager captain, the dark, durable fabric adorned with subtle vibranium enhancements that only someone intimately familiar with Wakandan technology would recognize.


    In his hands, he fiddled with a small piece of alien tech, its smooth surface etched with alien script and circuitry that pulsed faintly under his touch. The device, though unassuming, represented another piece of their growing arsenal, a stepping stone toward ensuring the Bastion''s survival.


    He leaned back, exhaling a slow breath as his gaze drifted to the vastness beyond the glass. They had done well, better than he had ever anticipated when they had fled Wakanda in the face of its fiery destruction. Under his leadership, the once-disparate group of Ravagers had found purpose, merging Wakandan ingenuity with the ruthless pragmatism of spacefaring scavengers.


    The Bastion was proof of their resilience - a massive asteroid, hollowed out and transformed into a self-sustaining fortress hidden within an asteroid field. Its location between two uncharted systems offered both strategic obscurity and access to nearby mining resources. Vibranium, painstakingly mined and repurposed by Wakandan scientists under Shuri''s leadership, had become their most valuable asset once again. With it, they had crafted weapons, tools, and armor that rivaled anything in the galaxy.


    And yet, despite their victories - despite the freed slaves who now called this place home, despite the ships they''d commandeered, despite the havoc they had wrought on the slave trade - T''Challa couldn''t shake the weight in his chest.


    Some of his people were alive, yes. But Wakanda was gone.


    The sound of approaching footsteps pulled him from his thoughts. Shuri, dressed similarly in Ravager garb, entered the room. Her outfit, though functional, bore hints of Wakandan craftsmanship - intricate stitching and a faint shimmer that betrayed the vibranium woven into its fabric. Her movements were brisk, her expression one of focused determination as she approached the desk.


    "You''re still messing with that, brother?" She asked, her tone light but laced with exasperation.


    T''Challa tossed the device to her with a casual flick of his wrist. "It is¡­ Stubborn," He admitted. "But I would have solved it. Given time."


    Shuri caught the device with ease, her smirk playful as she turned it over in her hands. Within moments, her fingers danced across its surface, manipulating the alien controls with practiced ease. The device let out a soft beep, its once-dormant circuitry springing to life in a faint glow. She held it up triumphantly, one eyebrow raised in challenge.


    "Of course, brother," She replied, her tone dripping with mock sincerity.


    T''Challa narrowed his eyes, his lips curving into a reluctant smile. "You take far too much pleasure in proving me wrong, Shuri."


    "I am your sister," Shuri said simply, her smirk widening. "It is my duty."


    Before T''Challa could respond, a deliberate throat-clearing broke the moment. Both siblings turned toward the desk, where Nick Fury sat, his expression one of thinly veiled irritation at being ignored. The former director of S.H.I.E.L.D. cut a sharp figure even in exile, his dark leather attire pristine and his single eye glinting with the intensity of a man who had spent a lifetime navigating corridors of power.


    T''Challa thought the dark leather was a bit much, even amongst Ravagers he stood out as trying too hard.


    He still had no idea why Captain Marvel had forced the man upon them, as useful as he''d been.


    "Prince T''Challa," Fury began, his voice measured but firm. "I feel that you''re not taking me seriously."


    Shuri''s expression darkened as she set the device on the desk with a sharp click. "It''s King T''Challa to you," She snapped, her tone icy.


    T''Challa raised a hand, a calming gesture that silenced his sister''s protest. "Peace, Shuri," He said softly. "There are no kings or princes here. Wakanda¡­ Is no more."


    The words hung heavy in the air, and for a moment, even Shuri''s fiery spirit seemed to falter. T''Challa''s voice carried a quiet resignation, though he managed to deliver the statement without the bitterness that once accompanied it.


    Fury raised an eyebrow, leaning back in his chair. "And you''re okay with that?" He asked, his tone probing. "Just going to roll over?"


    T''Challa met Fury''s gaze with a dark, amused look. "Mister Fury," He said slowly, "I will hate Justin Hammer until the day I die. And one day¡­" He leaned forward, his voice low and deliberate. "There will be a reckoning between him and I."


    Shuri straightened, her posture proud as she crossed her arms and gave Fury a look that all but screamed, That''s my brother.


    "But," T''Challa continued, his tone softening, "I have many who count on me now. Freed slaves who would face a fate worse than death if I foolishly attacked Earth. I will not see them suffer for my vengeance."


    He and Hammer would settle things man to man, he wouldn''t let others suffer needlessly.


    Fury''s lips pressed into a thin line, his expression unreadable. "Commendable," He said after a moment. "But you must realize he''s a threat to them as well. One day, he will come here."


    T''Challa rapped his knuckles against the edge of his desk, the sharp sound punctuating his next words. "Perhaps. Perhaps not. Bast only knows what will happen. But I will not sacrifice my people on your quest, Fury."


    The statement was pointed, deliberate. Fury''s gaze hardened, his jaw tightening as T''Challa continued.


    "You, I think, are not so different a man than Hammer," T''Challa said, his tone darkening. The accusation hung in the air, heavy and unspoken. How much did you have to do with Wakanda''s end?


    Fury''s glare was cool, but there was no mistaking the tension in his frame. "And here I thought I was the one with lesser vision in the room," He said dryly. "Have I not assisted your band of pirates? Your security, information gathering, tactical analysis - it was all lacking before I arrived."


    T''Challa inclined his head, acknowledging the point. "Everyone here at the Bastion pulls their weight," He said evenly. His gaze sharpened as he pointed a finger at Fury. "But you do not get to control our fates simply because you''ve worked for your bread like everyone else."


    Fury''s lips twitched into a faint smirk, though it didn''t reach his eye. "Perhaps I''ll find a way to make myself more useful then," He said, rising from his chair with deliberate slowness. "And convince you of the right way of things one day."


    Shuri glared at him, her hands braced on the edge of the desk as if she were holding herself back from saying something she''d regret. T''Challa, however, remained composed, his expression inscrutable.


    "Perhaps," T''Challa said, his voice calm but firm. "I would suggest not looking at others like pawns if you want them to fight for your cause, Mister Fury."


    For a moment, the room was silent, the tension between the three figures palpable. Fury held T''Challa''s gaze for a beat longer before inclining his head in a silent acknowledgment. Without another word, he turned and exited the room, the door sliding shut behind him with a soft hiss.


    The silence lingered for a moment before Shuri broke it with a muttered, "What a dick."


    The door closed on its own.


    <hr>


    The interior of the Bastion was a chaotic mismash of cultures and styles. Nick Fury strode through its cavernous halls with measured steps, his sharp eye taking in every detail. The asteroid''s natural rock walls loomed overhead, interspersed with patches of welded metal and reinforced panels that hinted at the frenetic construction that had taken place over months.


    The walkways were a patchwork of materials - steel grates, salvaged starship plating, and hastily cut planks of some wood adjacent material scavenged from cargo holds. Above and below, pipes snaked through the structure, steam hissing occasionally from a poorly sealed valve. The faint hum of generators reverberated through the air, mingling with the distant sound of machinery clanging and voices shouting orders in a cacophony of languages.


    The people of the Bastion were as diverse as the galaxy itself. Men, women, and children of every imaginable species bustled about, working together with a singular purpose. Fury passed a towering Kree engineer who barked instructions at a group of former slaves hauling crates of supplies. A trio of green-skinned Skrull children darted between Fury''s legs, laughing as they carried tools to a repair station. An elderly Xandarian woman sat on a metal crate nearby, mending a tattered jacket with a patience that seemed at odds with the chaos around her.


    On the walls, makeshift banners and flags hung alongside glowing neon signs, their bright colors clashing with the grimy, utilitarian environment. Some bore the Ravager emblem, while others displayed crude but heartfelt depictions of T''Challa''s Black Panther symbol, a testament to the loyalty he had earned from this ragtag community.


    As Fury moved deeper into the Bastion, the air grew warmer and more humid, a byproduct of the asteroid''s life-support systems and the sheer number of people crammed within its confines. He passed a narrow corridor where Wakandan scientists worked tirelessly, their lab coats standing out against the patchwork uniforms of the others. The soft hum of vibranium tools was a familiar sound.


    Even in space, the Wakandans had tracked down their miracle metal, unable to innovate without it.


    Fury''s gaze lingered on a group of humans and aliens collaborating on a mechanical exosuit, their faces a mix of determination and weariness. It was clear that the Bastion''s success was built on the backs of those who had nothing left to lose.


    Normally, that was perfect for his aims. But T''Challa had proved remarkably wise to his methods. And stymied his efforts constantly.


    The man was too charismatic, too willing to sacrifice himself for his people, it had bought the devotion of all the freed slaves, which is why Fury would have to pivot in his efforts.


    The path eventually opened into a larger space, a ramshackle gambling house and bar that pulsed with neon light. The sign above the entrance flickered erratically, its alien script unreadable to Fury but unmistakably inviting. The atmosphere inside was loud and vibrant, the air thick with the scent of alien alcohol and the sharp tang of synthetic cigars.


    Fury''s lip curled slightly as he caught sight of a man leaning back in one corner, a pleasure bot straddling him. T''Challa had banned prostitution outright, replacing it with these androids in a bid to prevent exploitation, but the sight still left a sour taste in Fury''s mouth. He muttered under his breath, "Dignity''s a rare commodity, I guess."


    How Shuri could condemn him with her every word and look, and then turn around and happily make sex bots for the populace, he couldn''t understand.


    Pushing through the crowd, Fury made his way to a central table where Yondu Udonta held court. The former Ravager captain was unmistakable, his crimson fin towering over the heads of those seated around him. Yondu''s sharp blue features were lit by the neon glow, his teeth bared in a predatory grin as he regaled his companions with some tall tale.


    Peter Quill, his lackey, leaned in with an eager expression, clearly asking questions that Yondu had no interest in answering. With a casual shove, Yondu sent Quill sprawling backward, the younger man landing on his ass with an indignant squawk. "I told ya, boy," Yondu drawled, his tone half-amused, half-exasperated. "Don''t bother me when I''m talkin''."


    Quill scrambled to his feet, grumbling under his breath as he brushed himself off. Fury watched the exchange with mild amusement before stepping closer to the table. Yondu''s sharp eyes flicked to him, narrowing slightly as the former S.H.I.E.L.D. director approached.


    "Udonta," Fury said, his voice low and measured as he took a seat across from the Ravager. Yondu leaned back in his chair, his expression shifting to one of distaste.


    "Well, if it ain''t the one-eyed wonder," Yondu drawled, his tone laced with mockery. "What d''you want, Fury? Ain''t ya got somewhere else to be?"


    Fury ignored the jab, his gaze steady. "We need to speak privately," He said, his voice so low it was almost a whisper. Only someone adept at lip reading would have caught the words.


    The former slaves adored T''Challa, but others had lost much, being pushed under his aegis. Fury would always find a way.


    Yondu''s grin widened, though it held no warmth. "Privately, huh?" He chuckled, leaning forward slightly. "What makes you think I wanna hear what you''ve got to say?"


    "Because it could be worth your while," Fury replied, his tone calm but with a razor edge. "I may have a way for you to recoup your losses."


    Yondu scoffed, but the faint flicker of interest in his eyes didn''t escape Fury''s notice. The Ravager captain tilted his head toward the backrooms, the gesture as dismissive as it was pointed. Fury nodded, rising from his seat without another word.


    He knew Yondu wouldn''t follow immediately. The man was predictable in his power plays, always needing to assert dominance in the most childish ways possible. Fury could wait. He had no doubt Yondu would come eventually, drawn by the promise of profit and revenge.


    As he moved toward the backrooms, Fury''s thoughts turned to the Wakandans and their vibranium. Shuri''s genius had already begun to yield results, and the mining operations had provided them with a resource that could tip the scales.


    It shouldn''t be too hard to find a way to craft a weapon, a bomb, that could neutralize Justin Hammer - no matter how powerful he thought he was. Fury''s lips thinned into a grim line. If a city or two had to be sacrificed to ensure Hammer couldn''t become the dictator of Earth, so be it.


    It would be no different than the American efforts to end Japan''s participation in World War Two. Some threats were worth the collateral damage to end.


    Fury had always been the man willing to make the hard calls. And this would be no different.


    <hr>

 Humanity! Heck yeah!

    <hr>


    May 10th, 2010.


    While the refurbished former Red Room station had been cloaked and launched into space as Justin''s secret space station/orbital weapon - there had also been another built to replace the international space station in cooperation with Stark. One without the cloak or massive armaments, made for research primarily, and as a stepping stone to begin crafting a space dock.


    Stark had been against the frivolity of adding a ballroom space to the station, and tonight Justin was proving him wrong as usual.


    His friends, minions and affiliates all invited for a grand party as they watched the defense net around Earth come into place.


    Every detail had been meticulously planned by Yelena, Emma Frost and Phantazia to exude wealth and indulgence - a showcase of how they were all the most powerful people on Earth. The grand ballroom hall was vast, its polished metallic floors used as a dance floor as an Orchestra portaled in for the occasion played classical music. Lush carpets covered the rest of the floor, tables laden with food, fountains of champagne, chocolate, and even Asgardian mead, available for sampling.


    Intermingled with all of it, were cozy seating areas with only a few seats, so that the guests could split into groups and have a good time in a somewhat private manner.


    Androids in black uniforms, completely controlled by Nail, moved seamlessly through the crowd, offering glasses of Asgardian and similarly alien spirits and exotic cocktails.


    Based on the Sentinel program, but without the same armaments and adaptive abilities, they made perfect servants - as Nail could easily pilot them, and they wouldn''t risk human servants hearing something they shouldn''t.


    Above all, the view stole the show. One entire wall of the hall was a massive window, a reinforced expanse of transparent material that offered an uninterrupted view of space. The view of their home, their planet, the home of humanity and their burgeoning empire.


    But it wasn''t just Earth that held everyone''s attention - it was the constant flashes of light. Every few moments, a new defense satellite was launched from Earth, streaking through the void to join its brethren in orbit.


    On the wall opposite the window, a digital counter ticked steadily upward, marking each new addition to Earth''s orbital defenses. The glowing numbers read 247 as another flash illuminated the vastness outside. Guests would pause mid-conversation to glance at the counter, some cheering or raising their glasses in a toast.


    Everyone that was in someway affiliated with his business empire were present.


    In one corner, the Ancient One and Pepper Potts conversed, trying to ignore the snark off between Doctor Strange and Tony Stark. The two men, if one were to take a brief glance, seemed to loathe each other. But if one were to pay closer attention, the science versus magic debate sprinkled with snark and innuendos, showed more of a burgeoning friendship between the intellectually superior men.


    All around them, his minions and allies were having a blast. In one corner, his newly acquired team member, Felicia Hardy, was heavily flirting with Frank Castle¡­ And his wife.


    To his obvious chagrin, and his wife''s very clear amusement.


    He tried to ignore the gaggle of black widows surrounding Helen Cho and Kaecillius, nothing good would come from that, but he''d rather not know either way.


    He looked around for some of the other team members, raising an eyebrow as Electro was being lead out - more like dragged out - of the ballroom by Rogue, who''d jumped ship from the X-Men to join Jean at UNESCO.


    Good for him, he thought, even as he wondered how that happened. If anything he would have thought she''d jump on Forge for solving her issues¡­


    Bucky, he knew, was still babysitting Steve and had chosen not to come, but he couldn''t see Brock, Vanko or Forge anywhere either, which likely meant they''d stolen some mead and gone to get plastered¡­


    He really couldn''t take Vanko anywhere, the brute. At least his wife had known what she was getting into¡­ She was also conspicuous with her absence, likely joining her husband and his friends.


    At least Octavius seemed to enjoy himself away from his usual comrades, dancing with his wife and looking perfectly happy.


    Justin himself stood near the window, a glass of Vanaheim spirits in hand. The golden liquid swirled in the crystalline glass, its faintly glowing hue reflecting the light from the stars. Even he had to admit, this drink was something special. Capable of giving even him, with his enhanced physiology, a pleasant buzz.


    He watched the satellites with satisfaction, his lips quirking into a faint smirk every time the counter ticked up. They''d be practically out of pym particles until Stark and Banner had a breakthrough, but it was worth it to get the defense net up and running.


    "A boring view for a boring party, where''s the revels, the debauchery?" came a voice from behind him, low and sultry.


    Hela.


    She sauntered up to him, her movements languid yet purposeful. Her dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, her leather attire hugging her form like a second skin. Her eyes glittered with a mix of lust and impatience, though there was a playful edge to her expression as she came to stand beside him, gazing out at the same view.


    "I''m glad you think so," Justin said dryly, without looking at her, taking another sip of his drink. A party she''d enjoy was likely to be a mess and a half. "Thor just delivered the Ravager ship a week ago, along with these Asgardian spirits and other trade goods. So just have some patience, you''ll get your fun soon enough."


    Hela scoffed softly, crossing her arms as she leaned back against the window to face him. "I didn''t come here to admire your little lights in the sky, Justin. I want what was promised¡­" She turned her sharp gaze on him, her lust clear. "You promised me bloodshed. If you can''t deliver, I''m happy to negotiate a different¡­ Distraction." One of her hands reached forward and squeezed his ass firmly.


    Justin finally looked at her, one eyebrow raised in faint amusement. "I keep my promises, you were informed what the process would be - I even went to bat against Asgard for you, so keep it in your pants woman¡­ As for your bloodshed, you''ll get plenty of that soon enough." He swirled his glass lazily. "The ship needs to be studied. My tech teams are going over everything. Once they''re done, you''ll have your ship and crew."


    Hela''s pout deepened, and she stepped closer to him, her presence almost magnetic, as always. She reached out, running her gloved hand down the front of his suit jacket before hooking her fingers around his tie, tugging it gently. "And how long will that take?" She murmured, her voice almost a purr. "I could pillage a thousand ships in the time your techs waste fiddling with wires. If it''s trade goods you want, I can bring you all the riches of the universe."


    Justin didn''t flinch under her touch, though he gave her a dry look, setting his glass down on the ledge. "As tempting as that offer is, I''d prefer to keep things running smoothly. You know, without causing intergalactic incidents with Asgard, or turning half the galaxy into enemies I don''t have time to deal with. Yet." He gently removed her hand from his tie, smirking faintly. "You''ll get your ship soon, Hela. Patience."


    It''s not like he wanted to keep her earthbound longer, but his techs needed to study the ship to ensure the ones he and Stark and their teams were designing had every bit of data they needed.


    Hela was best in small doses. Like once a year.


    Hela''s eyes narrowed, though the corner of her lips twitched as if she were suppressing a smile. "You''re lucky I find you entertaining," She said, stepping back and crossing her arms again, purposefully pushing her bust up. Her gaze flicked to the satellites again. "And what of these¡­ Toys? Are they really enough to keep Earth safe?" She sounded dubious.


    "They''re not toys," Justin replied, his tone firm, some annoyance leaking through. "They''re tools and weapons powerful enough to take down that ship you so desire... Tools that will ensure no one dares lay a finger on Earth. And before you ask - no, you can''t fight one."


    Hela chuckled deviously, a sound that sent a shiver down the spine of anyone nearby who heard it. "You know me so well, yet you keep on with this denial play¡­ A dangerous game."


    The room''s lights dimmed briefly, signaling that another satellite had been launched. The counter on the wall clicked up to 248, drawing another round of cheers from the partygoers. Hela turned her gaze back to Justin, her expression contemplative.


    "You know," She said slowly, her voice quieter now, but still brimming with an undercurrent of desire."You and I aren''t so different. Both of us desire nothing more than victory, to see our enemies driven before us, both of us willing to do whatever it takes to achieve our goals. Release your bindings, you''re a conqueror, like me, join me."


    Justin raised an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "Perhaps one day, who knows what the future will hold," He said, knowing it was better to dangle a possible carrot in front of this mad woman, then to push until she let go of her desire and want for him, going back to her old ways.


    She tilted her head, considering his words, before giving him a sly smile. "Perhaps I may still convince you, one of these days..."


    The two stood in silence for a moment, the weight of their conversation lingering between them. Finally, Justin picked up his glass again, raising it in a mock toast. "To progress," He said, his tone light.


    Hela rolled her eyes but raised an imaginary glass in return, her smirk growing. "To conquest." She rebutted.


    As another satellite launched into the void, the two of them stood side by side, their reflections in the window framed by the stars. Two forces of nature, each carving their own path through the universe, circling each other, the path forward still unclear.


    Justin took another sip of the frankly divine wine, this woman is going to be a constant headache¡­ He thought.


    Hela only smiled at him, like she could read his mind, and found his thoughts amusing.


    <hr>


    Grand Ballroom seating area,


    Jean Grey was perched on the edge of her seat, her green eyes bright and animated as she gestured enthusiastically, a genuine smile lighting up her face. She''d gotten dolled up for the event, a light spot of makeup, adding the kohl look to her eyes due to Cairo''s influence on the decorations. Her dress was an emerald number, strapless, that she''d spent her entire first paycheck on.


    Not that she was looking to impress anyone or anything.


    "This job is everything I''ve ever dreamed of!" Jean gushed, her voice warm and eager. "I mean, I get to make real, lasting changes, helping countries build themselves up, giving people a chance at a better life. It''s not just about putting out fires like with the X-Men. It''s actual progress." She leaned forward, her excitement infectious. "And the resources Hammer Industries is pouring into UNICEF are unbelievable! The teams are incredible, and the tech? I''ve never seen anything like it. We can help a village turn around their situation in hours!"


    Across from her, Emma Frost lounged back in her chair. Her crisp white outfit, perfectly tailored to her sharp curves, practically radiated icy confidence. She swirled a glass of wine in her hand, her piercing eyes fixed on Jean with a mixture of disdain and boredom, her platinum blond hair done up in an intricate crown for the occasion, some tresses still trailing down her shoulders.


    "Yes, Jean," Emma said smoothly, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "We''ve all heard the glowing reviews the first ten times. Saint Justin and his harem, saving the world one charitable initiative at a time." She took a sip of her wine, her lips curving into a faintly mocking smile. "And of course, you, the bright-eyed golden girl, plucked from obscurity as a side character on a minor team and placed at the helm. How utterly perfect and deserved..."


    Jean''s face flushed instantly, her earlier confidence faltering. "I - I got this position on my own merits," She stammered, her voice unsteady. "Mister Hammer saw what I could do, and recognized my potential and -"


    Emma cut her off with a sharp laugh, setting her glass down on the table with a soft clink. "Oh, please. Let''s not insult everyone''s intelligence. We all know what Justin sees in women like you." Her smile turned razor-sharp. "Or should I say, what he hopes to see. Face it, darling, your qualifications pale in comparison to the pretty sight of your spread legs."


    "Emma, that''s enough." Ororo''s voice cut through the air, her calm authority impossible to ignore. She''d been willing to let Jean fight her own battles. To a point. She sat beside Jean, her flowing white hair catching the light as she fixed Emma with a cool, steady gaze. Dressed in a flowing, off-shoulder dress of deep indigo, Ororo had drawn glances ever since she arrived.


    "Jean has earned her place," Ororo continued, her voice firm with a touch of censure. "And you know it. Just because you''re bitter at your own mistakes, doesn''t mean you get to lash out at her."


    They all knew she''d only come onboard once she''d seen her total defeat coming and had come begging for a seat at the table.


    While entirely competent, she still hadn''t as much as sniffed the inner circle of Justin Hammer, kept at arm''s length, trusted, but not trusted.


    Emma arched a perfectly sculpted brow, her expression unimpressed. "Bitter? Oh, no, Ororo, I''m far beyond bitter. Try exhausted." She leaned forward slightly, her eyes narrowing. "Do you have any idea what I''ve been tasked with? Infrastructure Czar. For the entire planet. Do you understand the scope of that? I''m rebuilding nations, cities, entire systems to be defensible against hostile actions. And for what? A pat on the head and a ''thank you for your service, Emma''? Meanwhile, the two of you get to sit back and bask in the glow of your shiny new titles, legs comfortably spread, actual work minimal."


    Jean''s face turned crimson, and she sputtered in protest, her voice rising. "I am not - there''s nothing going on between me and Justin!"


    Emma smirked, looking unconvinced. "Of course not, darling."


    "Emma," Ororo warned again, her tone sharper now. She reached out to place a calming hand on Jean''s arm. "Jean, you don''t have to explain yourself to her. You''re doing amazing work, and anyone with eyes can see that."


    Emma rolled her eyes, reaching for her wineglass again. "Oh, spare me the sisterly solidarity, Ororo. You''re just as complicit in this farce as she is, we all know you sold yourself for all of mutantkind, or that''s your story anyway, perhaps you simply desired white meat?"


    "It''s metahumans now!" Jean said sharply, regaining some of her equilibrium, Emma just scoffing.


    "And how many glasses of wine have you had tonight?" Ororo asked pointedly, her voice laced with a quiet challenge as she stared the normally poised and put together woman.


    Emma gave her a withering look, the faintest flush coloring her pale cheeks. "I''m allowed to drink, Ororo. Forgive me if the seven hells I deal with daily, call for a bit of relief." She snapped, uncharacteristically for her.


    Ororo tilted her head, her expression turning playful despite the tension. "I''m just surprised then, Emma. A calculating woman like you? I would have thought you''d take advantage of how easy Justin is, to gain your own advantage."


    "Ororo!" Jean squeaked out, "How much have you had to drink!?" She questioned her mentor, not believing this conversation could possibly take place normally.


    Emma''s gaze turned icy, her lips curling into a bitter smile as she met Ororo''s eyes. "Because I have self-esteem. I have to keep something, anything, of my pride. Or what''s the point?"


    Before Ororo could respond, the sound of a familiar voice cut through the seating alcove they''d made theirs, smooth and polite.


    "Ladies," Charles Xavier greeted, his wheelchair gliding silently across the polished floor as he approached. He was dressed sharply in a dark suit, his demeanor calm and composed as ever.


    Despite how he was mostly a pariah nowadays, his ''team'' down to a handful, his school, practically barren with the new acceptance amongst humanity.


    As shown by the fact he''d arrived for this soiree, alone.


    Emma''s expression turned instantly cold, her sharp features hardening as she fixed him with a glare. "And who the hell invited you?" She asked bluntly, her tone dripping with disdain.


    She''d never liked the man, and liked him even less now, that he''d turned into a complete milquetoast.


    Jean shifted uncomfortably in her seat, her earlier flush replaced by a pale, uneasy expression, still feeling guilty abandoning the X-Men. Ororo''s posture straightened, her face growing stony as she greeted Charles with a nod, her voice noticeably cooler. "Charles."


    She would not forgive him for messing with his own team''s memories. She blamed Emma far less, for doing the deed - then she did Charles for ordering it, and being too much of a coward to do it himself, or own up to it.


    Xavier seemed unfazed by the frosty reception, his tone measured and pleasant. "I''m an ally of Justin Hammer, Emma. Of course I''m invited to this gathering of the best and brightest of the Hammer Federation."


    Emma''s smile turned cruel, her blue eyes glittering with malice. "An ally, still?" She said, her voice deceptively sweet. "Even after dear Erik was harvested?"


    Ororo gave her a sharp look - that was not supposed to be well known information. And by all that is holy, how much had the woman had to drink to be this loose with her lips?


    Jean''s brows furrowed in confusion, her green eyes darting between Emma and Xavier. "What are you talking about?"


    Ororo''s eyes flashed angrily as she turned to Emma, her voice sharp. "That''s supposed to be classified, do not say another word." She warned, not wanting Jean to get in any deeper than she needed to be.


    Xavier raised a hand, his expression still calm but tinged with sadness. "Do not worry, Ororo. I''m already aware that Lady Domino has been gifted my old friend''s power."


    Ororo wanted to scream, that''s not helpful, Charles! And how the fuck do you know that!? Do we have a security breach?


    Normally a security breach would be a given with Charles, but Hammer Industries employees were safe against telepathy - and those in the know were even tougher to get information from. Did he¡­ Autopsy Erik to study his corpse? Charles¡­


    Were any of your ideals ever real? Ororo wondered, even more sure she''d made the right choice now.


    Emma had gone entirely blank faced, Domino being the recipient of Magneto''s power obviously news to her.


    Jean''s mouth fell open, her expression one of shock and disbelief. "Wait - Hammer can remove powers? And give them to other people!?"


    Ororo pinched the bridge of her nose, letting out a sigh. "See, Charles? This is exactly the kind of thing you don''t just share openly."


    How on earth was she going to convince Justin to not end the man for such loose lips? He already didn''t like him, and Charles'' survival in this new world was likely down to Justin being considerate to her and Jean¡­


    Xavier looked genuinely apologetic, but Ororo wasn''t sure she could trust his expressions anymore, he was too good of an actor, having pulled the wool over her eyes for years.


    "You''re right, Ororo. My apologies."


    Emma, meanwhile, looked thoroughly pleased at Charles being taken to task, her lips curved into a smug, superior smile. That is, until Ororo turned her attention back to her with a heated glare.


    "And you," Ororo said pointedly, her tone firm. "You''re just as bad, so wipe that smugness off your face, you shouldn''t have said anything either."


    Jean, still struggling to process what she''d just heard, raised her voice slightly, her words tumbling out in a mixture of disbelief and frustration. "What the hell!?"


    Ororo sighed again, standing and offering Jean a gentle smile. "Come on, Jean. Let''s go chat. Just the two of us."


    She''d need to convince Jean to keep this quiet. Metahumans were becoming a fixture in society, they couldn''t afford to cause an uprising now, this information could cause major upheaval if spread maliciously.


    Every metahuman would wonder if they were next, just a product to be harvested for Hammer''s chosen.


    Jean hesitated for a moment before nodding, her expression still troubled. She stood and followed Ororo out of the room, leaving Emma and Xavier behind, Ororo giving them a final glare, even as she waved over one of the servant androids, having a quick word.


    The tension between the two remaining figures was palpable, even if Charles was too ''evolved'' to showcase his dislike openly, Emma had no problems with it.


    "So," Emma said, her voice cold and biting as she fixed Charles with a steely glare. "Enjoying your new position as completely inconsequential, Charles? Do you even have any students left to brainwash?"


    She knew she was being a hypocrite, she didn''t care. She was overworked, stressed beyond anything, due to not having the same safety net as the whores around Hammer. At least she could still bully Charles. It was something.


    Xavier''s expression remained calm, though there was a flicker of something darker in his eyes for a moment when she mentioned his students. "I dreamed of the day I wouldn''t be needed anymore, Emma¡­ what about you, White Queen? How''s all that power feeling now?" He gave her wine glass a measured glance.


    The alcove fell into a heavy silence, Emma refusing to give Xavier a point, just waving down another drink. While Xavier had no one else really to talk to, so he remained.


    <hr>


    On the dance floor,


    The soft glow of dimmed lights reflected off polished metal flooring as a gentle melody wafted through the air, the kind of tune that made you want to sway in place, caught up in its warmth. Eileen and Domino moved together in the center of the room, their steps unhurried, their movements perfectly in sync, as though the music played only for them.


    Eileen was dressed in a dark blue, almost black dress, its silky fabric flowing just enough to catch the light with each step. A high slit revealed her toned leg as she moved, and the open back showcased her pale skin, framed by her neatly styled blonde hair. She looked elegant, the sheen of sweat on her skin showcasing just how long they''d been at it.


    They''d been dancing since the party started, refusing to let go of each other and being embroiled in discussion with the other partygoers, just enjoying being.


    Domino, by contrast, had a less formal dress, her own little black dress that clung to her curves showcasing her cleavage to an eye popping extent, the bottom barely reaching mid thigh, the dress adorned with subtle silver accents that caught the light just enough to draw the eye. Her dark hair fell freely around her shoulders, for once beaten down into a free flowing nature, her natural confidence and playfulness making her look effortlessly stunning.


    Domino grinned as she leaned closer, her cheek brushing against Eileen''s as they slowly danced. "You know, if you wanted to seduce me tonight, you could''ve just said so. All this dancing is overkill, you had me the moment you showed up in that dress."


    Eileen chuckled softly, giving her an amused look, Eileen''s eyes holding that soft nature that she only ever shared with her. "Who says I''m trying to seduce you? Maybe I just wanted to enjoy a quiet evening out for once. No trouble, no chaotic events."


    Domino raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a mischievous smirk as she twirled Eileen, getting a laugh out of her, as the slow music was definitely at odds with such a maneuver. "No chaos? With me around? You might as well wish for snow in the Sahara."


    Eileen pulled back slightly, meeting Domino''s gaze, her expression softer than usual. "That''s not true. You might thrive in chaos, but you¡­ With me, I don''t see chaos anymore ¡­ You make me feel grounded. Like I can breathe. I didn''t realize how much I needed that until you became mine."If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    For a moment, Domino seemed caught off guard. Her smirk softened into a genuine smile, one that didn''t come out often. "Well, aren''t you just full of surprises?" She murmured, pulling Eileen a little closer as they swayed. "Sweet talk like that and I might come to believe things¡­" She rested her face against Eileen''s neck and just breathed in her, eyes half lidded, "Or I might just lose all control and ravish you right here."


    Eileen rolled her eyes, though her lips twitched with amusement. "Don''t try to deflect Dom, not with me. You matter to me. More than I expected you would, more than I ever thought you would.."


    Domino''s fingers trailed along Eileen''s back, her touch light but deliberate as her eyes searched Eileen''s carefully. "Careful, sweetie. Keep talking like that, and I might think you''re trying to tie me down forever."


    "Would that be so terrible?" Eileen asked, her voice steady but laced with a hint of vulnerability.


    Domino tilted her head, considering the question. "Terrible? No. Terrifying? Maybe a little." Her tone was light, but there was an undercurrent of honesty there. "I''m not exactly used to¡­ This." She gestured vaguely between them. "The whole ''normal relationship'' thing, everything has always been just skin for me."


    Eileen smiled, kissing Domino''s nose gently, "You don''t have to worry with me, love, I''ll wait as long as it takes. This is new to me too." Slowly she leaned in, her lips capturing Domino''s ever so softly. Just a taste, as she disengaged, eyes slightly mischievous, "New can be good." She murmured.


    "Touch¨¦," Domino said with a laugh, her grip tightening slightly as she spun Eileen in a slow circle. When they came back together, their foreheads almost touched. "But seriously, Eileen, I don''t know if I''m cut out for the ''forever'' thing. I¡­ I don''t want to hurt you¡­"


    In a sight of incredible rarity, Domino''s playful mask dropped, as she showed Eileen her insecurities and fears, not hiding anything in her expressions.


    Eileen''s eyes searched Domino''s, her gaze calm and understanding. "We can figure this out, step by step, together. Maybe it''s forever, maybe it''s a month." She touched Domino''s chin gently with one hand, meeting her eyes, "But you could never hurt me by being you."


    Domino''s smile returned, softer this time, tinged with something Eileen couldn''t quite place. "You make it sound so simple," She said, her voice almost a whisper.


    "Maybe it can be," Eileen replied. "If we let it."


    For a while, they danced in silence, the music filling the space between words. Eileen''s movements were measured, precise. Domino, on the other hand, moved with a casual grace, her steps unpredictable but never clumsy, always complementing Eileen''s. Together, they created a rhythm that was uniquely theirs, as they paid no attention to the world around them.


    Eventually, Domino broke the silence. "Do you ever think about what comes next?" She asked, her tone casual, but the question carried weight.


    Eileen tilted her head. "What do you mean?"


    "I mean¡­ Us. This. The whole ''Hammer empire'' thing," Domino said, her voice light but her expression thoughtful. "Are we just cogs in the machine? Or is there a bigger picture we''re supposed to be a part of when this all finishes?"


    Eileen considered the question for a moment, her gaze distant. "I think¡­ It depends on us. On what we want. Justin might be at the center of it all, but he doesn''t dictate who we are. At least, not entirely. He''d let us decide for ourselves."


    Domino snorted softly, her gaze fond. "You really think we have that much freedom? I like the guy, respect him more than I ever have any other man, but he''s a possessive one. The man''s a god, Eileen. He could snap his fingers and rewrite reality if he wanted to."


    Eileen met Domino''s gaze, her expression steady. "Maybe. But he hasn''t. And until he does, I''m going to keep being who I am. I think you should too, he''s never begrudged us that." She laid a gentle hand on her shoulder, "If you asked to do something else, he''d listen."


    She didn''t spend half as much time as his bodyguard anymore, she knew, because he didn''t need it the same way. A way to give Domino a break, she suspected. But one Domino apparently wasn''t taking well.


    "You know he let you go to reward you, right? Because he wanted to give you more space, he even gave you the power of magnetism, he''s not replacing you, Dom." Eileen said softly.


    Domino''s lips curved into a small, genuine smile. "You''re annoyingly good at this whole ''being a good person'' thing, you know that? Ruining all my self flagellation just like that!" She let out a little huff, but her smile remained.


    "I try," Eileen said with a faint smile.


    Domino leaned in, her lips brushing against Eileen''s ear as she whispered, "I''m going to worship you, for being so good to me."


    The music began to fade, but neither woman moved to stop dancing for now. For them, the moment wasn''t about the music or the setting. It was about the connection they''d found, the understanding that, despite their differences, they were better together than apart.


    As the last notes of the melody faded into silence, Domino leaned in, her lips brushing against Eileen''s in a kiss that was equal parts playful and tender. When she pulled back, her smirk was back in full force


    "Alright," She said, her voice light but her eyes serious. "Let''s take it one step at a time on the road to forever."


    Eileen''s smile widened, her hand tightening slightly on Domino''s. "One step at a time," She agreed.


    Eileen shrieking as Domino suddenly hiked her up into a princess carry, her arms going around her neck, as she blushed furiously, "Domino, what are you doing, everyone''s watching!"


    "Your favorite movie is an Officer and a Gentleman, I''m only giving my sweetie what she craves." Domino said with a wide grin, as she carried a blushing Eileen out of the room, to plenty of applause from those who noticed them.


    <hr>


    Elsewhere on the dance floor,


    Yelena twirled her sister, Natasha Romanoff, across the dance floor, their movements graceful and well practiced. The music was elegant but upbeat, providing a steady rhythm that allowed Yelena to guide the dance with ease. Natasha''s exasperation was written all over her face, her eyes sharp as they met Yelena''s mischievous grin.


    How exactly did I allow Clint to weasel out of this again? I needed the backup, she thought, annoyed.


    Oh yes¡­ He''s still in the doghouse with Laura¡­


    To be fair to her erstwhile partner, he hadn''t realized Hammer Industries child care programs had allowed Laura to go back to work - at Hammer Industries - when he chose to badmouth said company and its founder the moment he finally got back home.


    At least Natasha hadn''t been the only one with foot in mouth disease with a loved one during this whole debacle.


    Although she assumed at least Laura wasn''t trying to get Clint to sleep with Hammer¡­ Like Yelena was.


    "Let me guess," Natasha said dryly as Yelena spun her, "This little dance is part of your plan to ''sacrifice'' me to Hammer again, isn''t it? Is that why you dragged me out here? Two sexy, sensual women moving against each other for his viewing pleasure?"


    Yelena laughed, the sound bright and teasing. "Relax, Nat. He already turned you down, he wanted nothing to do with it." She nodded toward Justin, who stood near the edge of the ballroom, gazing out into the vast expanse of space through the window. His profile was calm and composed, his hands casually in his pockets as he listened to Tony Stark prattle.


    "For now," Yelena continued with a smirk, "It''s just a friendly dance between siblings. No sacrifices today, I promise."


    Natasha felt kind of offended. She knew she was gorgeous, and had used her body like a weapon many times. More importantly, she had rocked his world when she''d been undercover. What did he mean he wanted nothing to do with her!?


    Natasha arched a brow, hiding the reasons behind her irritation behind sarcasm towards Yelena. "Forgive me if I don''t take your word for it. Last time I checked, you were still all for this crazy idea, pushing me forward like some tribute from ancient times."


    Yelena just shrugged, looking entirely too pleased with herself as she twirled Natasha again. "That''s what sisters are for." She chirped. "We''re all allies here."


    Natasha rolled her eyes, tapping her finger against the rings coiled around Yelena''s forearms almost like gauntlets. The Ten Rings glinted under the ballroom lights, their intricate designs radiating power. "A lot of firepower for an ally to be carting around a party," Natasha remarked, her tone pointed.


    She''d been shown what Yelena could do with those, hence why she absolutely rejected any offers of sparring.


    She didn''t need to add to Yelena''s smugness.


    Yelena''s smile was playful, her eyes glinting with humor. "We''re done fighting now,  sure," She said sweetly, resting her head on her shoulder as they danced. "But you taught me to always be prepared."


    Natasha let out a soft huff as they moved together in sync. "How''s life, Nat?" Yelena asked eventually, tilting her head as she rested it on the Black Widow''s shoulder still. "Hammer Industries as scary as you thought it would be?"


    Natasha hesitated, her steps faltering slightly before she recovered. "It''s¡­ Surprising," She admitted begrudgingly. "I expected something more... Oppressive. But what he''s doing? It''s working. The world''s stabilizing, somehow, against all odds, and people seem - " She paused, searching for the right word, "-happy."


    Yelena grinned, her tone teasing. "Don''t sound too impressed, Nat. Someone might think you''re starting to believe in the new world order."


    Natasha scowled, though there was no real heat behind it. "I didn''t say that. I''m just saying he''s not as awful as I expected vis a vis your average tyrant. Doesn''t mean I trust him."


    Yelena smiled, pulling Natasha closer as the music slowed. "Oh, come on. You''ve been here long enough to see it, with how good you are. Justin''s not the monster you thought he was, he does what is necessary. He''s actually¡­ Amazing."


    Natasha snorted softly, but there was no scorn in her tone, they''d been through this song and dance before. "Amazing? That''s not exactly the word I''d use. Arrogant, ambitious, a little too charming for his own good¡­ Sure. But amazing?"


    She''d met amazing men before, albeit they were a rarity. And Hammer did not qualify. She honestly had no idea what Yelena saw in him.


    Yelena smirked, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Call it what you want, but you can''t deny he''s changed the world for the better. And honestly?" She spun Natasha again, making her sister stumble slightly at the unexpected shift in the middle of a slow dance. "It''s nice not to have to fight all the time anymore. To just¡­ Live."


    Natasha steadied herself, her expression softening ever so slightly. "Yeah," She said quietly. "I''ll give you that."


    She might not agree with it. But she wasn''t stupid. She could see that generally, everyone''s lives were improving. The cost¡­ Well, she wasn''t Fury. She wouldn''t die for democracy. She''d adapt and find her place in this new order.


    Even Clint had a position waiting for him. Working under Laura. She was intensely curious how that would go. She might have to ask Yelena for permission to set up some hidden cameras. It promised to be comedy gold.


    Natasha had only needed seconds of interaction with Laura to see how unimpressed she''d been with their everything, for the past year or so.


    The song swelled toward its conclusion, the final notes echoing through the ballroom as Yelena dipped Natasha dramatically. Natasha let out a soft laugh, her lips curving into an involuntary smile. "Okay, fine," She said, her tone tinged with reluctant amusement. "You win. This was¡­ A nice break from everything"


    Yelena''s grin widened as she straightened, pulling Natasha back to her feet. "See? I''m not all bad, once you stop acting stupid."


    Natasha gave her a sidelong glance, her smile fading slightly. "So, if you''re over being mad at me, does that mean I can stop playing your secretary?"


    Please, let it be over.


    Yelena''s smirk turned wicked, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Not a chance."


    Natasha groaned, already regretting asking the question and showing her displeasure. Yelena''s tone turned breezy, almost cheerful. "Oh, that reminds me. I''ll need maternity clothes soon. Please research and write out a full description of every type of maternity clothing and material that exists, I''ll need it in triplicate, handwritten - I''m allergic to other ink."


    Natasha''s expression flattened into a deadpan glare. "Don''t you have an AI that could do that in five seconds?" Also, bullshit you''re allergic to printer ink¡­


    Yelena''s face was the picture of innocence, though the smirk tugging at her lips betrayed her. "She''s busy," She said sweetly. "I''m afraid I can only count on you this time, big sister."


    The sheer audacity of the task left Natasha momentarily speechless. She stared at Yelena, her mouth opening and closing as she struggled to find a retort. Finally, she let out a long, exasperated sigh, pinching the bridge of her nose. "You''re a very evil person, bullying your own sister," She muttered.


    Yelena beamed, clearly taking the comment as a compliment. "I know."


    As the next song began to play, Yelena took Natasha''s hand again, pulling her back onto the dance floor with a flourish. Natasha let herself be led, her expression caught somewhere between irritation and amusement. For all her complaints, she couldn''t deny that moments like these were rare - and, despite everything, she was glad to share them with her sister.


    She''d been heartbroken to learn of her mother''s death, her father dead long before that even, in prison.


    So Yelena was all she had, besides Clint.


    She wasn''t going to lose that.


    <hr>


    June 4th, 2010


    The space aboard the Ravager ship the Murderboner (Name to be changed, fucking ravagers) thrummed with activity as the crew - sentinels and a few carefully selected humans picked out from his staff by Hela, prepared for departure.


    His techs, with the help of Nail and Jarvis, had gotten everything they needed from the ship, and it was time to ensure Hela was off, to be someone else''s problem for a while.


    The sentinels had been repurposed for spacefaring purposes, and were entirely loyal to Justin above all else, with self destruct codes available for Nail in case they did somehow get taken over by some alien tech or hivemind.


    He found it unlikely, but if Star Trek had been any guide, all aliens wanted to either fuck or kill you, or be you, so it was prudent to safeguard for such eventualities.


    Human engineers barked commands, double-checking systems and calibrating controls, while the ship''s engines hummed steadily in preparation for the first tests. Even so they still had several hours before the ship would actually take off.


    Justin stood on the bridge, observing the organized chaos. Beside him, Hela lounged in the captain''s chair, her sharp eyes scanning the bustling crew with faint anticipation, her lips curled into a smirk as she saw her goals coalesce before her. Nebula was licking Hela''s leather boots, a nervous expression on her face, Hela holding her leash lazily in her hand.


    There was no way she''d broken that fast, but if she wanted to play games with Hela... It wasn''t Justin''s problem. Nail would never let her succeed with a betrayal.


    "This is going to be fun," Hela said, her voice low and sultry as she slid off her chair, and stepped closer to Justin, her fingers trailing lazily along the edge of the console. "Your toys are more obedient than most mortals, harder to break too.. I can play rough and not worry."


    She absently clicked her fingers at Nebula, who left the bridge, crawling on all fours, her leash trailing behind her.


    Justin gave her a sardonic smile. "They''re efficient, and they don''t question orders. Two things you could learn from, Hela." Keeping Hela under control was like holding a storm in a bottle, and he couldn''t show himself as too weak.


    Hela''s smirk deepened, and she leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a purr. "Speaking of my obedience, I can think of a much better way for you to spend your time before I leave." She reached out, her fingers brushing against the lapel of his suit jacket as her eyes glimmered with barely restrained. "Surely you can spare a moment for¡­ Putting me in my place."


    Justin exhaled sharply, his smile stiffening as he reached up to gently - but firmly - remove her hand from his jacket. "As much as I''d love to entertain you, you''d have to clear that with Yelena first."


    By the time she managed to corner and convince Yelena, it would be time to leave, and he''d escape having to deal with anymore Hela business for hopefully a long while.


    Yes, parts of his domains were sex and domination, but Hela was just¡­ So Hela. He''d prefer to keep their liaisons down to once a year, or ten.


    Hela arched an eyebrow, her expression shifting to one of mild surprise that he hadn''t immediately pounced. "Yelena?" She repeated, her tone a mixture of curiosity and irritation. "Since when do I need her permission?"


    Justin nodded slowly, a small proud smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Since she decided she''s my woman. You can''t just bypass that, it wouldn''t be proper etiquette."


    Hopefully Yelena would forgive him for throwing her under the bus a little. At least Hela wasn''t so crazy as to challenge her to a duel or anything, knowing exactly what Justin would do to someone threatening one of his.


    Hela narrowed her eyes, clearly displeased. "You mortals and your need to complicate things, you should act more like a God." She muttered, though her lips twitched as if she were holding back a grin, like she knew something he didn''t. "Fine. I''ll deal with Yelena."


    Justin''s smirk didn''t fade as he straightened, his tone shifting to a more businesslike cadence. "Now, let''s talk about your mission." He gestured to a holographic display that floated above the console, highlighting star charts and target zones. "You will stay away from Asgard. That''s not up for negotiation. Your targets are pirates, slavers, and anyone else that qualifies as galactic scum. No civilians. Got it?"


    It needed to be said. He didn''t need to find himself in a war with the Kree because she decided to decimate one of their planets.


    Sakaar¡­ Well, she could decimate that planet, they were mostly pirates, slavers and galactic scum. She even had someone on that planet she knew, it would be like a fun reunion...


    Hela rolled her eyes, but she nodded. "Yes, yes. No civilians. I''ve heard this lecture before." Her gaze flicked to the display, her interest piqued by the clusters of red-highlighted targets, Sakaar amongst them. "And the loot?"


    Justin nodded. "Bring back anything valuable. Tech, weapons, rare materials. Sell or use anything else as needed." He gave her a look, "No slaves."


    Hela cocked her head, a smirk on her face, "No slaves? Don''t you need new alien lifeforms to study?" She teased lightly.


    Justin sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "If you find any aliens we have not studied before, bring a few back. But only a few. This isn''t a free-for-all slaving operation, Hela."


    He''d take some free test subjects that were useful. A few Kree to develop a Kree specific virus wouldn''t be a bad idea, necessarily.  But if Hela went overboard, he''d just get Xandar on his ass, or Captain Marvel dropping by again.


    Her smirk shifted into a pout. "Fine. Not too many slaves. But I expect some recognition for my restraint."


    "You''ll get a pat on the head," Justin said dryly. "Now, about Asgard -"


    "Oh, stop worrying about Asgard," Hela interrupted, waving a dismissive hand. "I''m not interested in the golden halls or that simpering fool Thor. Although, Odin¡­" She trailed off, her grin turning sharp and dangerous. "Just a detour to kill him wouldn''t be such a big deal. He isn''t even king anymore." She asked, with an honestly horrible attempt at puppy dog eyes.


    Hela just didn''t do innocent, that well, nor begging.


    Justin''s expression hardened, and he stepped closer to her, his voice low and firm. "No. You stay away from Asgard. Odin, Thor, all of them. You''re more useful out there pillaging and looting to your heart''s content instead of a pointless battle you may well lose."


    Hela tilted her head, her lips curving into a more exaggerated pout. "But think of the satisfaction. Just a little death. Only Odin. I''ll even promise to leave Thor intact - mostly."


    "No," Justin said firmly, his voice laced with an edge of authority, "He''s already humiliated, standing by entirely impotent as Frejya rules, turned into his wife''s bitch - settle for that." He took a deliberate step forward, his presence radiating power as he unleashed a subtle wave of his domination aura. The air around them seemed to thrum with an unspoken command, and Hela''s playful demeanor faltered for a fraction of a second.


    She shivered, her pupils dilating as she took an involuntary step back. Her grin returned, though it was tinged with something darker. "Fine," She said softly, her voice almost a whisper, something hungry beneath it. "I''ll behave. For now."


    Justin nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "Good. I''d hate to have to cut this mission short because you couldn''t follow orders."


    She only smirked, as she turned to leave the bridge, at least he had time now, he thought, she wouldn''t find Yelena in time for anything else.


    "Nail, patch me through to Yelena." Hela purred, as she stepped out, sending one last smirk Justin''s way.


    Damn¡­ She''s getting smarter.


    "Nail," He said quietly, his voice directed toward the room at large.


    A moment later, Nail''s holographic form appeared beside him, her expression calm and composed. "Yes, sir?"


    Justin''s eyes remained on the display as he spoke. "Is everything prepared?"


    Nail nodded. "A fork of my consciousness will remain aboard the ship. I will monitor Hela''s actions, control the sentinels, and provide guidance as needed."


    Justin''s expression didn''t change, but his tone grew colder. "If she sets course for Asgard¡­"


    Nail hesitated for only a moment before responding. "I will initiate the self-destruct sequence, sir."


    Justin looked at her, his gaze sharp and unyielding. "Good." He turned away from the display, his hands slipping into his pockets as he walked toward the exit. "I won''t let her ruin everything we''ve built. Contingencies are necessary, do not give her an inch."


    Nail watched him leave, her holographic form flickering slightly before disappearing.


    Only minutes later Hela ambushed him, saying Yelena was on the way, dragging him along the corridor enthusiastically.


    <hr>


    The next day. Hammer space station.


    Justin sat at the head of a obsidian conference table, his fingers drumming idly against the surface as he listened. Across from him, Sunil Bakshi was speaking, his voice calm. To Justin''s right, Yelena lounged in her chair, legs crossed, paying attention to the conversation.


    Sunil sounded faintly annoyed as he continued, "Russia is still holding firm. The rebels haven''t managed to break through Moscow''s defenses, and the state security forces have managed to keep them contained for now." He tapped a control, shifting the display. "China, however¡­ Their response has been far more - blunt."


    A live feed showed satellite footage of a city square. A gathering of thousands, waving banners, chanting. Then the armored transports rolled in. The feed cut to thermal imaging as the first shots were fired. The heat signatures flickered and collapsed, hundreds at a time. The streets were painted in red.


    "The death toll is¡­ Excessive," Sunil said carefully, his dark eyes watching Justin for a reaction. "They aren''t just focusing on maintaining order now - they''re obliterating anyone who speaks against them, it''s going to cost us if we leave it alone."


    Justin exhaled through his nose, rubbing his temple with one hand. "Idiots," He muttered. "They keep clinging to the past, thinking they can hold out. That their ''national identity'' means anything in the grand scheme of things." He sat back, expression unreadable. "This is taking too long. What do we have that cuts through the bullshit and solves this immediately?"


    Sunil hesitated for only a moment before asking, "What''s changed, sir? You were content to let them grind themselves down before."


    Justin''s fingers drummed against the table again, his gaze flicking up sharply. "My patience only goes so far when it comes to idiots not seeing the inevitable." His voice was calm, but there was an edge beneath it - a quiet, simmering irritation. "They should have folded by now. The longer they resist, the more problems they create. I need this wrapped up."


    Yelena stretched, rolling her shoulders. "Easy solution," She said, voice almost playful. "We turn the orbital weapons on Beijing. One shot, negotiations start over with whoever''s left alive."


    Justin admired her ruthlessness, but he wasn''t sure that was a solution.


    Sunil''s reaction was immediate. "Absolutely not," He snapped, uncharacteristically forceful. "The PR fallout alone would be catastrophic."


    Yelena arched an eyebrow. "We own the media, PR is what we say it is."


    Sunil gave her a flat look. "You can''t just make an entire city disappear and expect no one to notice."


    Yelena shrugged. "So we say China did it to themselves. Some ''accident'' with their nukes. A glitch, a misfire - people will believe whatever we tell them."


    Sunil''s mouth opened, then closed, as if momentarily at a loss for words. Finally, he exhaled sharply. "Yelena," He said carefully, "Fear works - until it doesn''t. Push too far, and people become so afraid fear no longer matters and they die happily to stop you. If nations think they''re next, we''ll see resistance start before we can consolidate." He shook his head, "No one''s going to miss an orbital bombardment, no matter what excuse we use."


    Justin tapped a finger against his chin, then waved a hand dismissively. "Sunil''s right. Too much trouble for too little gain. We need them to submit, not create martyrs. Any other options?"


    Yelena made a thoughtful noise, then grinned. "We could just kill every political and military leader above a certain level. Clean slate. Everyone below them gets the message loud and clear - fall in line or join the corpses."


    Justin turned to Sunil. "Feasible?"


    Sunil nodded. "Nail has every key figure tracked down, their position known to the centimeter. We could deploy Widow teams through portals and eliminate them all within the hour."


    Yelena leaned back, smirking. "Do it soon. A lot of my girls need maternity leave soon."


    Justin nodded once, finalizing the fate of hundreds of men and women in an instant. "Make it happen."


    Sunil merely inclined his head, already sending out the necessary orders.


    Justin shifted gears. "Savage Lands. Progress?"


    Sunil switched the display. The hologram now showed dense jungle, heat signatures shifting among the thick vegetation. "Slow going," He admitted. "The natives are very resistant, not just tactically but biologically. The flora and fauna alone have taken down multiple squads, and the terrain makes advanced tech deployment difficult." He paused. "We''re also dealing with some¡­ Complications."


    Justin raised an eyebrow. "Elaborate."


    Sunil''s fingers danced across the console, bringing up a separate feed - footage of soldiers engaged in combat. But their opponents weren''t just tribal warriors. Hulking animalistic figures moved among them, energy weapons in hand, armor gleaming with an unmistakable glow of advanced technology. "They''ve scavenged Celestial technology," Sunil confirmed. "We''re losing squads to weapons we barely get a reading on."


    Justin exhaled through his nose, then smirked slightly. "Well, at least we know it''s worth taking, then."


    If they lost soldiers, so what? This was all a perfect place to learn how a supersoldier army should fight. How their tech and tactics worked. Their deaths were worth it for the data alone.


    He''d sacrifice a couple more divisions before he worried about needing to push further.


    Yelena yawned, stretching out, "Maybe time to send in the big boys?"


    Justin glanced at her. "Suggestions?"


    She ticked off on her fingers. "Bucky, Brock, and Frank."


    Justin shook his head. "Not Bucky. He''s still babysitting Rogers, working him over." He turned to Sunil. "Send Brock and Frank. Let them take Electro too."


    Sunil nodded. "Understood."


    Before the meeting could officially end, Justin leaned forward, locking eyes with Sunil. "Start drafting plans for Talokan."


    Sunil paused, studying him carefully. Then, slowly, he nodded. "I''ll get started."


    Namor had disappeared when the Avengers fully collapsed. And Justin doubted the fish king was planning to begin a life farming kelp or whatever they did.


    So the minor annoyance needed taking care of.


    <hr>


    The training room inside Hammerhaven was massive, its walls lined with advanced sensors and projections designed to mimic any environment. But today, the room was set to its neutral configuration - a minimalist arena of smooth flooring, clear of obstructions, the perfect blank slate for an all-out sparring session.


    Justin stood at the center, rolling his shoulders. He wore a simple pair of fitted black training pants and a gray tank top, his movements fluid and relaxed. His gaze was fixed on his sparring partner, Domino, who stood not far from him, casually stretching out her arms.


    She finished adjusting her gloves and strolled forward, the faintest hint of a smirk curling her lips.


    "Ready to get your ass handed to you, boss?" Domino teased, her voice light and lilting, but her stance already shifting into one of readiness.


    Justin smirked back. "If I lose, it''ll be because of that damn luck of yours. Not skill." He bragged, bouncing lightly on the soles of his feet.


    "Oh, sure," Domino said, raising an eyebrow, her smile very amused. "Let''s see how far that will get you today."


    She launched herself at him without warning, her movements a blur. Justin barely had time to sidestep the sweeping kick she aimed at his legs, his reflexes kicking in just in time to block her follow-up punch aimed squarely at his face. The impact reverberated up his arm, her strength sharper than most would ever guess from her lean frame.


    But he was a God, so it was nothing that would impede him.


    Justin retaliated, a quick jab to her ribs that forced her back a step. But Domino recovered instantly, twisting her body and using her momentum to send a roundhouse kick toward his head. He ducked low, his eyes narrowing as he dropped and swept at her legs. She leapt into the air, flipping gracefully to avoid him, and landed a few feet away.


    Her grin widened. "You''re getting better," She said, circling him slowly. "Still not good enough, but better."


    "I''ve had excellent teachers," Justin replied, his tone dry. "You, Yelena, and Phantazia have been very¡­ Hands-on."


    "I''m in a relationship now. Don''t make it weird," Domino said with a wry smirk, lunging at him again. She feinted left before driving her elbow toward his side. He twisted, catching her wrist and trying to use her momentum against her, but she spun fluidly out of his grip, her feet sliding across the smooth floor at the same time as he just so happened to somehow slip on some sweat on the floor and losing her.


    Justin barely had a moment to process her escape before she flicked her fingers, and a shard of metal from the training floor''s reinforcements peeled off and hurtled toward him. He dodged, feeling the faint brush of air as it whizzed past his head. "That''s cheating," He said, his voice tight but amused.


    He did specifically train with her to get his reflexes and battle awareness up.


    "You''ve got a literal Infinity Stone," Domino shot back, grinning. "I think I''m allowed a little creativity."


    Justin exhaled, steadying himself. "You say that like I ever use it, but fine, I need to learn to fine tune it anyway."


    The Power Stone was a powerful weapon, but could be very indiscriminate at times. Not exactly an ideal thing for precision work, hence why he''d been working on it. So if Domino wanted to play, he''d play.


    "Think fast!" Domino said, several metal plates spinning in the air above her, before she threw her arm forward.


    With a subtle flick of his wrist, a sudden pulse of energy radiated outwards as a shield not too unlike the mandalas the sorcerers of Kamar-Taj displayed all the time. Small enough to only cover what was needed, as he manipulated it so precisely - it destroyed the pieces of metal she fired at him.


    He was even quick enough to redirect his shield when one of the metal pieces bounced into another and slipped underneath it. A thought all it took, to have his shield re-materialize in front of the lucky piece of metal.


    "Not bad," She said, her tone light but focused. "You''re learning fast. I''m proud."


    Justin rolled his eyes, lunging at her this time. They met in a flurry of strikes and counters, their movements almost too fast to follow if anyone had been there to watch. Domino''s enhanced agility and her ability to manipulate luck kept her just out of reach of his attacks, while Justin''s superhuman reflexes and strength forced her to stay on her toes.


    Both of them regularly interfered with small uses of their other powers. Metal suddenly bombarding him or trying to trip him up, forcing him to adapt quickly, while his own uses of power boxed Domino in, forcing her to take hits.


    After several intense exchanges, they broke apart, both breathing heavier but grinning. Domino wiped a bead of sweat from her brow. "So," She said casually, "How''s Yelena?" Before throwing a jab at his nose.


    Justin raised an eyebrow, wondering why she''s asking, even as he easily deflects the jab, trying to latch onto her arm. "She''s fine. Why?"


    Domino''s grin turned mischievous even as let him grab his arm, only to use it as leverage to attempt a scissor movement for his neck. "Just wondering if she''s tired of waiting for you to stop fucking around and put a ring on it."


    Justin snorted, shaking his head, even as he ducked under her attempt, losing his hold on her. "She likes me fucking around. Keeps things exciting."


    "That didn''t answer my question," Domino said, raising a playful eyebrow as she flicked another shard of metal at him. He swatted it away effortlessly with a backhand, not even using the Power Stone, his expression unimpressed.


    "Why do you care?" He asked, stepping forward to close the distance between them again. "Are you planning on being her maid of honor or something and you''re worried your chance is disappearing?"


    "Obviously," Domino said, smirking, whole plates coming off the wall and rushing him in a staggered pattern, warping into giant daggers. "But I need to know if I should start prepping my speech or not. Also, July''s coming up, you know."


    Justin hesitated for a fraction of a second, his gaze narrowing. "Why July?" He asked, letting the Power Stone fill his veins, as he dashed through the storm of metal at almost super speed, coming out unharmed.


    Domino shrugged, letting the metal drop. "That''s the deadline for the pool."


    Justin''s expression shifted to one of disbelief. "There''s a pool?"


    His people obviously had too much free time.


    Domino''s smirk widened. "Of course there''s a pool. Everyone''s got a bet on when you''ll finally settle down."


    "Settle down," Justin repeated, his voice laced with dry amusement. "As if any of you actually want that to happen. You''d be bored out of your minds."


    Domino laughed, lunging at him again. Their fists collided midair before they broke apart, circling each other. "We''d be fine," She said. "You, though? You seem like you''d combust from trying to be normal for five seconds. Poor Yelena¡­"


    "Thanks for the vote of confidence," Justin said, his tone sarcastic. And Yelena doesn''t care about that¡­ Right?


    "Anytime," Domino quipped, darting forward with a series of quick strikes. He blocked them all, their movements becoming more fluid as they fell into a rhythm.


    After a particularly close exchange, Justin raised an eyebrow at her, deciding to fire back. "So, how''s it going with Eileen? Since you''re so interested in my relationship, why don''t you share?"


    Domino''s grin turned smug. "Oh, it''s absolutely fantastic. She''s a giver in bed, through and through. Never disappoints." She waggled her eyebrows, "She''s better in bed then you, keeps me on my back ~all night long!"


    Justin blinked, slightly taken aback. "Honestly, I would''ve pegged her as more dominant." He admitted, ignoring the clear lie.


    Domino''s laughter rang out, echoing through the training room. "Everyone''s full of surprises," She said, her voice teasing. "You should know that by now. You know how she can control nerve endings, and muscles, right? That shit is crazy in bed."


    Justin shook his head, stepping back and lowering his stance slightly. "Remind me never to ask for details again."


    "Suit yourself," Domino said, shrugging. "But seriously, you''d better have a ring on Yelena''s finger by July." She said sternly, wagging a finger at him.


    Justin just gave her a look, his expression guarded. "Not saying anything that you''ll run back to Yelena with the second we finish here."


    Is this coming from Yelena through Domino, or is this just Domino shit stirring like usual? He wondered.


    Domino''s grin turned wolfish. "Smart man. But if you don''t do it by July, I''m losing the pool, and I''ll be pissed."


    Justin tilted his head, studying her. "Why do you even need money anymore? You''re rich."


    He knew why he needed it. It wasn''t about the money anymore, it was more about keeping score. But he doubted she was like him.


    "It''s not about the money," Domino said, her tone matter-of-fact. "It''s about the bragging rights."


    Justin couldn''t help but laugh, shaking his head as they resumed their sparring. "You''re ridiculous."


    "July, remember it," Domino shot back, her grin never fading as they clashed once more.


    <hr>


    Cairo, July 1st, 2010.


    The floating city of Cairo gleamed under the noonday sun. Hovering above the sands of Egypt, where the origins of human civilization once flourished, the city now stood as a testament to the progress of a united Earth - a world that belonged to Hammer and the Federation he had created. Thousands gathered in the main square of the floating metropolis, their voices a steady hum of anticipation as they awaited the arrival of their leader. To many, their God.


    While the hold over some areas, like the middle east, were tenuous at best. The whole world had united under his banner. July 1st, this day, trumpeted as the new birth of humanity. It''s ascension as the center of the universe.


    Massive holographic screens surrounded the plaza, it was also broadcasting the scene to billions worldwide. Hammer''s symbol - hovered in the air like a sun, casting its light over the crowd. Drones flitted above, capturing every angle of the event, ensuring that no moment of Justin''s victory speech would go unseen.


    Behind the podium, a massive flag bearing the symbol of the Hammer Federation billowed gently in the breeze.


    Justin stepped onto the stage, dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit with subtle golden accents. His presence alone drew a roar of applause and cheers from the crowd, their voices echoing like a thunderstorm. His smile was confident, his eyes sharp as he took in the sea of faces before him. He raised a hand, and the noise slowly subsided, leaving a charged silence that hung heavy with expectation.


    He began to speak, his voice amplified by the advanced sound systems, yet carrying the natural charisma and conviction that had made him a god in the eyes of many.


    "Today," Justin began, his tone steady and resolute, "We mark the dawn of a new era. An era where humanity is no longer divided by borders, no longer fractured by the petty conflicts of nations and ideologies. Today, we stand united - not as Americans, Russians, Chinese, or any other nationality - but as one people, as one humanity."


    The crowd erupted into cheers, their collective energy palpable. Justin paused, allowing their fervor to swell before continuing.


    "When I first spoke to you all here, in this very city, I asked you to imagine a world without division. A world where every man, woman, and child could thrive. Today, that world is no longer a dream. It is a reality."


    He gestured broadly to the holographic screens, which now displayed images of thriving cities being rebuilt under Hammer''s regime, of families smiling, of technological marvels transforming lives. His voice rose, filled with passion.


    "Every country, every culture, every piece of this planet is now a valuable thread in the tapestry of the Hammer Federation. But to truly thrive, we must let go of the things that divide us. Borders, flags, national pride - these are relics of a bygone era. What matters now is our shared humanity. Because across the universe, one truth is universal - humans, us, are superior!"


    The declaration hung in the air like a thunderclap, and the crowd roared its agreement, fists pumping into the air. Justin''s gaze swept over them, his expression one of fierce pride.


    "Humans," He continued, his voice taking on a steel edge, "Are the masters of their fate. We have endured countless trials through history, from wars to famines, from pandemics to planetary crises as Aliens tried to keep humanity down, fearing our potential. And every single time, we have risen stronger. Together, as one race, we will not only survive - we will conquer even death itself!"


    His words were met with deafening applause, the crowd chanting his name: "Hammer! Hammer! Hammer!" The sound was so loud it seemed to vibrate the very air.


    Justin allowed the moment to settle before his tone shifted, becoming more serious, almost somber. "But while we have brought peace and prosperity to the surface of this planet, there remains one last threat underneath the surface. One obstacle before Earth can truly be cleansed of chaos and ready to grow into the stars."


    The holographic screens flickered, displaying images of Namor. The mood in the square shifted instantly. Murmurs rippled through the crowd, their collective focus sharpening.


    "Namor," Justin said, his voice laced with disdain. "The self-proclaimed king of Talokan. The murderer of Wakanda and the lunatic behind almost destroying the world in nuclear fire. The last remnant of division, of defiance against humanity''s destiny. He and his people cling to the shadows, hiding beneath the waves, their very existence a relic of a time when alien blood tainted our world."


    His gaze hardened, his tone cutting. "Let me be clear - there is no more room for aliens infecting humanity with their filth, earth belongs to humanity!"


    The crowd was silent now, hanging onto his every word.


    "To Namor," Justin said, his voice ringing with authority, "I offer this mercy - surrender. Lay down your arms, and your people will be granted leniency and allowance to leave this planet. Whatever mutations you hold from alien DNA are incompatible with our existence, you have this one chance to submit to Federation mercy. If you continue to endanger the peace and unity we have fought so hard to achieve - then I will have no choice but to bring the full weight of humanity''s might upon you."


    Justin''s voice softened slightly, becoming almost paternal as he addressed the crowd. "This is not a call for hatred. This is not a call for war. This is a call for unity, for the final step in our journey to paradise. Look around you," He said, gesturing to the people in the square and to the images on the screens. "Look at your neighbors. Those across your borders. They are no longer strangers. They are no longer enemies. They are your brothers. Your sisters. Take care of each other. Support each other. And above all¡­"


    His gaze swept over the crowd, his expression one of unshakable conviction. "Trust in me."


    The crowd erupted once more, their cheers filling the air with an almost religious fervor. They chanted his name, their voices rising like a hymn to their savior.


    "Trust in me," Justin repeated softly, his voice almost lost in the sea of noise. But his smile was confident, his posture unyielding. He raised a hand, and the crowd''s chants grew louder, their faith in him absolute.


    As the broadcast ended, the image of Justin Hammer standing tall, victorious, burned into the minds of every person watching.


    There was no doubt. The God Emperor was born.


    <hr>


    Dark Aster, Kree Space.


    A soldier kneels, a fist to his chest, head bowed, "Ronan, there is a messenger here for you. A woman sent by Thanos."


    <hr>


    Elsewhere, hidden,


    "Thanos can deliver what you wish, all you need to do is obey." Ebony Maw said in an oily voice, protected by a sphere of energy.


    "... Show us proof of this¡­ Thanos'' capabilities." Came the snide and arrogant reply.


    Maw grinned as he lifted the scepter, the stone shining brightly, "As you wish¡­"


    <hr>

 Forever.

    <hr>


    Asgard, July 20th, 2010


    The grand throne room of Asgard shimmered with light as beams of gold filtered through towering crystal windows. The intricately carved columns lining the hall depicted scenes of Asgard''s glorious past - battles fought, alliances forged, and victories won.


    The marble floor beneath them was polished to a gleaming finish, reflecting the grandeur of the room. Despite the magnificence of the locale, tension was in the air, emotions running strong amongst those gathered before the throne.


    Frejya, the Queen of Asgard and the regent of King Thor, sat regally upon the golden throne made for the Queen, her gown of emerald and gold silk pooling elegantly around her. Her gaze was serene but there was a slight tension in her eyes where she sat, her fingers lightly resting on the armrests.


    Beside her, Thor sat on the King''s throne, shoulders slightly hunched, as if the weight of the crown pressed heavier on him today than usual. His hands gripped the armrests, knuckles whitening as he braced himself for the argument that had already begun. His eyes flickering between his mother and father.


    Despite being King, no one in the room was waiting on his word, his inexperience and habit of deferring to his mother making his kingship mostly a symbolic one.


    Standing before them was Odin, his one eye burning with restrained fury. His once-mighty presence, though diminished with age, still commanded respect. His long white beard flowed like a river down his chest. At his side stood General Tyr, Asgard''s top military commander, his armor polished to perfection, and Heimdall, ever watchful, his gaze unblinking as he absorbed every word even while keeping a watchful eye elsewhere.


    Odin''s voice cut through the silence like a thunderclap within the grand chamber. "You are willfully blinding yourselves, both of you," He said, his tone sharp with disapproval. "Midgard is no longer the weak, defenseless realm it once was. I acknowledge this. In that you have succeeded in fostering a relationship with Midgards ruler. However they are not simply ''amusing mortals'', as you seem to think. They are now a threat."


    Thor shifted uncomfortably, casting a quick glance at his mother for support. "Father, I would not describe them as such. The people of Midgard have grown, yes, but they do not see us as their enemy, nor can they match my strength - outside of their ruler himself, perhaps."


    Odin''s eye darkened. "Naive, Thor," He spat. "Naive and foolish."


    Thor looked briefly mullish, before he wilted at his father''s glare and kept his silence.


    Frejya''s lips pressed into a thin line, but her voice remained even, as she responded. "Midgard''s progress need not be a threat to us. If anything, their unity could bring benefits we have long overlooked. The nine realms could thrive through cooperation and progress. We no longer rule with the goal of stagnation, nor through fear and mistrust or with the fist of Asgards military."


    The dig against Odin''s rule was hardly subtle, even Thor understanding it and wincing slightly.


    Odin''s glare hardened. "Cooperation? With a world that obviously seeks to stand not as one of the nine realms, but as the one? The seat of power in the cosmos? Their ambition knows no bounds, and you know it, wife."


    With a wave of his hand, he gestured toward Heimdall, who stepped forward, his armor gleaming similarly to polished bronze. His gaze swept the room before landing on Frejya and Thor, as he put a fist to his chest, bowing his head slightly in respect.


    "As you know," Heimdall began, his voice low and resonant, "Justin Hammer recently delivered a speech to the people of Midgard, stoking their resolve to remain free from outside influence as he proclaimed humanity the center of the universe. He painted a picture of external threats, particularly alien ones, as being anything not human. While he did not mention Asgard by name, the subtext was clear. He unites them through fear against the other. And we of Asgard qualify."


    Thor leaned forward, frowning. "They don''t see us as their enemy, Heimdall. I''ve been there. They view us as allies, protectors of the nine realms, we struck a trade deal, that is not enemy action."


    Odin scoffed, his voice thick with disdain. "You think that shield will hold forever? One man''s vision can twist the masses in a heartbeat against us, and there are many of these mortals. Fear will turn an alliance of convenience into hatred the moment Hammer wishes for it to be so."


    Frejya raised a hand, silencing them both. "Heimdall, continue."


    He nodded. "Midgard''s forces are currently fighting in a region known as the Savage Lands, seeking celestial technology buried within its jungles. Their technological advancements already rival anything we have seen from mortals before. Their command of science and magic combined is accelerating rapidly. With celestial technology to bolster their advancement, we risk losing our advantage over Midgard technologically over the next few years, my Queen."


    Odin''s gaze never left Frejya as he interjected. "And yet, wife, you continue to view them as harmless to our interests."


    Hence why they were here, an official audience on record. Odin tired of trying to convince her privately.


    Frejya''s expression didn''t falter, though her fingers tightened briefly against the armrests. She shifted her gaze to Heimdall again, "And what of Hela?"


    Heimdall''s jaw tightened before he answered. "Hela is free to roam currently, my Queen. And while she has not openly defied the terms of our agreement with Midgard, she travels the cosmos under Midgard''s banner, intent on wreaking havoc on slavers, pirates, and criminal outposts. Every battle she will fight adds to Midgard''s coffers, and broadens their reputation."


    Tyr, standing at Odin''s side, took the opening to speak. His voice was measured, but the weight of his concern was unmistakable. "Our warriors are superior, of that there is no doubt. But superiority alone will not win a war. Midgard has millions of soldiers. They now have super soldiers that can match our strength if not our experience. With their technology advancing at this rate, and with the sheer numbers they can deploy, Asgard would be overwhelmed if conflict arose."


    Tyr was not one for politics, so he bluntly stated his worries. Even as he seemed uncomfortable admit the possibility of loss.


    Thor bristled, sitting up straighter. "We would not fall so easily." He rumbled, not believing that Midgard would fight at all, and certainly not that Asgard would risk losing.


    Tyr''s gaze hardened. "No, my King, not easy, we would fight, but for how long? And at what cost? Their armies number in the millions, and they do not need to fear losing a warrior the way we do. They would swarm us like insects, chipping away at our defenses until even the greatest of us are brought low."


    Odin turned to Frejya, his voice quieter but no less intense. "Your experiment is a failure. Midgard is united, yes as you wished, but under a man we cannot trust. A man who speaks of peace while preparing for war, while wielding an infinity stone!"


    Thor glanced toward his mother, uncertainty clouding his features. "Mother, what do we do? What advice can you give us?"


    Frejya closed her eyes briefly, as though weighing the weight of the universe within her mind. When she opened them, her gaze was sharp and decisive. "Leave us," She commanded, her voice echoing through the chamber.


    Heimdall, Tyr, and even Thor exchanged uncertain glances, but a nod from Odin sent them filing out of the room. When the grand doors closed, only Odin and Frejya remained.


    The balance of power was slowly shifting again in the uncertainty.


    Frejya''s posture softened, her shoulders sagging slightly as she let out a quiet sigh. "Husband," She began, her voice barely above a whisper. "He wields, as you say, an Infinity Stone. We cannot strike against him. If we do, we doom Asgard."


    Appeasement would work, it had to. Carrot after carrot with the odd showing of the stick, like when she''d chastised Hammer over Hela.


    Odin''s jaw tightened, his frustration barely contained. "We are doomed regardless if he turns against us. Do you not see that? We gave Hela back her freedom as an anchor around his neck and he turned her to his advantage, and you know what she is. One day, she will come for us, and Justin Hammer will be the one who unleashes her."


    Frejya looked away, her gaze fixed on the intricate patterns woven into the floor. "I am not so certain." She looked back towards him, "And you forget, husband, she comes for you, above all else, not Asgard."


    Odin took a step closer, his voice gentler now but no less insistent. "Do you dare to risk all of Asgard''s people on that uncertainty? Will you gamble with their lives?"


    For the first time in the argument, Frejya hesitated truly. Her fingers drummed softly against the armrest as her thoughts swirled, her mind torn between the hope she clung to and the grim reality her husband painted.


    She had no answer.


    Odin''s gaze softened, but his disappointment lingered. "Think on it, Frejya, my dear wife. Because if we are wrong, there will be no one left to correct us."


    The silence that followed was suffocating, the weight of their unspoken fears pressing down on them like the crushing force of a collapsing star.


    They had to choose.


    <hr>


    July 28th, 2010, Washington D.C


    The glow of the neon sign outside the small, themed restaurant cast shifting hues of pink and purple before them, as Justin and Yelena stepped through the entrance for their date.


    The inside was bustling yet cozy, the air carrying the faint scent of fried food, grilled meat, and something sweet like freshly baked pastries. Lively chatter filled the room, blending with the soft hum of 1950s-inspired diner music, though the setting was anything but vintage.


    The restaurant was an eclectic mix of retro diner aesthetics and modernity. Red leather booths were paired with gleaming chrome fixtures, but they shared space with digital tablets mounted at each table for ordering and entertainment. Colorful LED lighting bathed the walls in soft shades, creating a warm ambiance. Along the walls were holographic projections of animated cat girls that would occasionally wink or wave at passing customers, giving the place an immersive vibe.


    And, of course, the real highlight - the employees.


    Everywhere Justin turned, young women with playful animal ears, whiskers, and swaying tails moved between tables, delivering orders with cheerful energy. Fox girls with bushy tails wrapped around their waists, dog girls with floppy ears, and cat girls with twitching whiskers and eager tails weaved through the crowds.


    Their outfits consisted of tight skirts that barely reached mid-thigh, paired with cropped blouses that exposed just enough skin to teeter on the edge of decency. Their steps were purposeful, but their flirty winks and playful gestures were part of the charm.


    Nails ''hobby'' brought to life. Employees signing a contract for a minimum of six months of work, in exchange for biomodification that truly turned them into girls with actual working fox tails or cat ears.


    The entire restaurant chain was therefore also serving as advertisement for Hammer Industries bioengineering division.


    Transhumanism was a heavy topic. Except when the first toe dipped in the water came with a cute cat girl as the poster girl.


    Justin''s gaze lingered briefly on a pair of cat girls who passed by their table, one of them with long silver hair and a tail that flicked as if aware of his attention. He couldn''t help but smirk slightly.


    How long until someone starts a hucow farm? and will Nail be embarrassed when I congratulate her as the mother of this revolution? He wondered.


    He also couldn''t help but imagine Yelena with cat ears and a tail¡­ And it¡­ Worked very well. Now how to convince her¡­


    "You''re enjoying this, aren''t you?" Yelena teased, her sharp eyes narrowing in amusement as she slid into the booth across from him. "Nail really knows how to cater to her master''s tastes then I suppose."


    "Master?" Justin scoffed, sliding into his seat and taking the menu. "She does whatever she wants half the time, and you know it. Calling her my daughter has never been more correct."


    "And conveniently, that involves cat girls amongst other types." Yelena raised an eyebrow, flipping through the menu on the tablet attached to their booth. "You think she''s watching us right now to gauge your reaction?"


    A silly question.


    Nail was always watching.


    Everywhere.


    "Absolutely," Justin replied, tapping the side of his head where his neural implant was connected. "She''s probably analyzing customer feedback in real time to see if the concept is worth expanding, while also taking the chance to see if we like it."


    Justin knew one word for him would have Nail immediately shut down the project, so it was lucky that he did feel the entire thing was fantastic.


    Mentally he added cat girl mud wrestling to the file of entertainment that would be available on Nails'' other project, Night city, the city of sin.


    Fox girls hunting rabbit girls¡­The possibilities here were endless!


    Yelena chuckled, leaning back against the leather booth as she continued to skim the menu. "Well, it''s working. This place is packed, and we would have had to wait for a table if we were anyone else. I heard the servers practically line up to sign contracts just to get the biomods, so there is an actual waiting list to work here."


    "Why wouldn''t they?" Justin said, his tone thoughtful. "Most of them will probably start their own streaming channels and rake in sponsorship deals and the like after their contract is up."


    "Your empire of cat girls," Yelena teased, rolling her eyes. "What a legacy."


    Justin grinned but didn''t deny it as a cat girl approached their table, her large brown ears twitching slightly as she greeted them with a bright smile. Her tail swayed behind her as she placed two glasses of water on the table.


    "Welcome, nyah~! Are you ready to order?" She asked, her voice cheerful and laced with the practiced cuteness of the role.


    Justin gestured for Yelena to go first, and she tapped her menu thoughtfully. "I''ll have the Beef Wellington with sweet potato fries instead of mashed potatoes, and a vanilla milkshake."


    The cat girl nodded and turned to Justin, who gave her his most confident smile. "I''ll take the ribeye steak, medium rare, with a side of mashed potatoes. And a strawberry milkshake, extra whipped cream."


    "Got it! Master and mistress~ I''ll be back shortly, nyah!" the cat girl said, spinning around and swishing her tail as she walked away.


    Yelena smirked, watching Justin''s gaze follow the server for a brief second before he turned back to her. "I think Nail''s going to get a glowing review from you." She mocked, before adding, "And the food is kind of upscale for a diner, isn''t it?"


    "They can afford to charge more for a plate, people will still pay just for the girls, cheap finer food would have been a waste." Justin admitted. "But enough about that. What about you? Have you thought about baby names yet?"


    Yelena made a face, wrinkling her nose. "I have a few ideas, but you''re not getting a say."


    "None at all?" Justin asked, raising an eyebrow.


    "None," Yelena said firmly. "You had your say when you put the baby in me. Naming rights are mine."


    He''d have to convince one of the other women for a Justin Jr then. Helen would probably be all for it.


    Did he ever¡­ Remove the clones she had of him?


    Whatever, at least that kid will grow up used to seeing his face.


    "Still highly unfair." He pointed out eventually, raising his glass of water to take a sip. "So what are you thinking? Russian inspired names?"


    He''d have to veto anything too Russian. This kid would be the important one, after all.


    The rest he supposed would make good underlings, one day.


    "Maybe," Yelena mused, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Something strong. Traditional, but not boring."


    "What about something inspired by your family?"


    Yelena''s expression softened slightly, a flicker of nostalgia crossing her face. "I''ve thought about naming her Natalia if it''s a girl. Or Melina." She admitted quietly. "After my sister or mother. But¡­ We''ll see."


    Justin nodded, sensing the depth of meaning behind her words. "And if it''s a boy?"


    "Maybe Alexei," Yelena said with a smirk. "My father deserves something for not being here to beat you up for defiling his little girl. Maybe a middle name either way, boy or girl."


    Justin laughed. "You really don''t hold back, do you? If anything I''d say you defile me."


    "Never." Yelena leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table as she studied him. "What about you? Any grand ideas for how to handle your child?"


    She was well aware already he wasn''t father of the year material, but she sounded curious about his thoughts.


    "Not really," Justin admitted, his tone casual but sincere. "I figure you''ll have it covered. Besides, I''m not exactly the type for PTA meetings and diaper changes."


    "I wouldn''t want you anywhere near them," Yelena teased, but her smirk was affectionate. "You''d probably try to automate the whole process." Her smirk turned impish, "If it''s a girl, I pity her, any boyfriend of hers is going to suffer."


    "Don''t tempt me, and besides, if she''s anything like her mother, if it''s a girl, she might have a girlfriend instead." Justin said with a chuckle. "But seriously, you''re going to be a great mom. You''ve got the instincts for it already."


    Yelena''s eyes softened, and for a moment, the playful banter between them quieted. "Thanks," She murmured, her hand absently resting on her stomach.


    Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of their meals, the cat girl server placing the plates and milkshakes on the table with a cheerful "Enjoy, nyah~!"


    She leaned over the table right after, honest to god purring, as she spoke quietly, "This isn''t a service usually on tap, but the eye in the sky told me you two might want to pet a kitty, ~nyah! Feel free to pick me!" She winked as she left the table with an extra sway to her ass.


    They exchanged amused looks as they dug into their food. The atmosphere was warm, comfortable - a rare moment of peace in their otherwise chaotic lives. And if Justin wasn''t massively misreading things, Yelena did in fact want to pet a kitty after their meal.


    He really needed to find another reward for Nail for coming up with such amazing ideas.


    About halfway through the meal, Justin''s neural implant buzzed, signaling an incoming call from Sunil, one of the few who could get through his do not disturb. He held up a hand to Yelena. "Just one moment, sweetheart."


    He accepted the call, Sunil Bakshi''s voice filling his mind. "Sir, Namor has reached out and agreed to talks."


    Justin''s grip on his fork tightened slightly, his eyes narrowing. "Now? Of all times?"


    How¡­ Annoying.


    He had been looking forward to the genocide.


    "Yes, sir," Sunil confirmed. "He seems¡­ Strangely willing to negotiate."


    Justin exhaled sharply, annoyance flashing across his face. "It would have been so much simpler for me if he''d fought, or more fun at least. The damn Fishman waited until it was inconvenient to suddenly grow a brain."


    Sunil remained silent, waiting for instructions. Justin leaned back in his seat, thinking quickly. "Set up the meeting in secret. No cameras. I don''t want Namor pulling any stunts outside my control in case this is a feint of some sort."


    He certainly wasn''t going to go to Talokan, so Namor would have to come like a begging supplicant before his superior.


    Perhaps the genocide wouldn''t be off the table yet¡­


    "Understood," Sunil replied.


    The call ended, and Justin returned his attention to Yelena, who was watching him curiously. "Bad news?"


    "Just annoying," Justin muttered, shaking his head. "Namor actually wants to talk."


    Yelena raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking into a smirk. "Can''t solve every problem by blowing it up, can you?" She teased, immediately identifying his irritation and its cause.


    Was there anyone who knew him better than this woman?


    "Don''t tempt me," Justin said, echoing his earlier words. But this time, his smirk was tinged with frustration.


    Yelena chuckled, leaning forward to steal a a bite from his plate. "You''ll figure it out. You always do."


    Justin smiled, the tension easing from his shoulders as he relaxed into the moment. For now, at least, he could enjoy the rest of their date.


    Then he and Yelena could show a kitty just how bad of an idea it was to think she could keep up with them.


    If Hela couldn''t manage¡­.


    <hr>


    Same day, Kamar-Taj.


    The scent of incense drifted lazily through the air, mingling with the earthy fragrance of brewing tea from a nearby pot.


    The Ancient One waited patiently, three extra cups already prepared.


    Mordo, Wong, and Dr. Stephen Strange, her apprentice, entered the large chamber where the Ancient One awaited them. She sat cross-legged on a finely embroidered cushion, a delicate porcelain cup of tea cradled in her hands. Her calm, ageless gaze swept over the three men as they approached, her expression serene yet unreadable.


    The Ancient One gave no sign of surprise as Mordo and Wong stopped before her, their faces shadowed with conflicting emotions. Strange, standing just slightly apart, shifted on his feet, his sharp eyes betraying the storm of questions swirling within him.


    Recent events had unsettled them. As was often the case with the sorcerers of Kamar-Taj when meeting something which could not be easily quantified within a spell matrix.


    "Mordo, Wong, Stephen," the Ancient One greeted them with the warmth of an old friend instead of that of a master. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"


    Three cups were placed before them on the low table, and she raised an imperious eyebrow until they all reluctantly sat.


    Mordo didn''t waste time on pleasantries after being seated. His posture was rigid, his arms crossed tightly over his chest. "We''re here because we have concerns, master," He said, voice measured but stern. "Concerns about Kamar-Taj''s growing involvement with the material world - specifically with Justin Hammer."


    This meeting certainly confirmed that she''d been right to not mention her humiliation to her students.


    Not that she was overly bothered after it was over, it was simple flesh, and a simple humiliation, after which Justin Hammer got it out of his system and left them be.


    An ideal outcome, really. Hence why she''d done nothing to protest.


    But her students could still be so attached to immaterial things. As was the wont of the modern human.


    Wong nodded in agreement to Mordo''s words, though his expression was less severe. "Master, we''ve always stood apart from worldly conflicts. Our duty has been to safeguard mystical realms, to protect the fabric of reality. But now, we''re sending sorcerers to assist Hammer''s soldiers, guarding his infrastructure, even granting him protection spells."


    Where does it end? Was his silent query, that she heard loud and clear. She simply hummed, sipping her tea, turning her gaze to Stephen.Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation.


    Come to her early, but yet somehow still exactly the same as she''d envisioned.


    Stephen''s gaze didn''t leave the Ancient One, though his voice was softer than Mordo''s. Lacking the subtle recrimination. "Are we really comfortable with this? With propping up what is in effect, a dictatorship?"


    The Ancient One remained silent for a moment, her eyes closing briefly as she inhaled the steam from her tea. When she opened them again, they shimmered with wisdom to them, twinkling in a way she''d picked up from a most amusing book on wizardry. "Your concerns are valid," She said, setting her cup down gently. "But they stem from a misunderstanding of the role we play - and the role Justin Hammer now plays in the grand design."


    Mordo''s brow furrowed. "A misunderstanding?"


    "Yes," The Ancient One replied calmly. "We do not fight for Hammer. We fight for balance. We always have. In every age, there comes a force that threatens destruction, and we intervene to maintain the balance needed for life to flourish. Tell me, Mordo - when you put out a fire in the forest, do you do so to save the trees or the animals?"


    Mordo hesitated. "Both," He admitted, though his voice was tight.


    "And if you save the forest," She continued, "Do you control it? Do you dictate which way its branches grow or where its animals tread?"


    "No," Wong answered, his eyes narrowing slightly. "But this isn''t a forest fire. This is a man who controls nations with clear avarice and ambition."


    "And who protects them," The Ancient One countered smoothly, her gaze unwavering. "Consider the state of the world before he rose to power. Constant war, corruption, governments failing their people. Tell me - how long would we have been able to safeguard this world from mystical incursions if its mortal guardians had destroyed it themselves?"


    Justin Hammer had for good or worse, united humanity. But for Kamar-Taj, it was only good, as it lessened the risks to their remit, protecting Earth from those like Dormammu. A divided Earth was much easier to hide in, to attract followers in, to perform dark rituals with vile sacrifices in, hidden by the dark corners of the world.


    A surveillance state might be morally wrong. but for them it only helped. Was it just? Perhaps not. But when protecting Earth from all things mystical, the concern was keeping eldritch beings from snacking on you, not whether or not your vote mattered.


    Stephen rubbed the back of his neck. "It''s true things have stabilized," He admitted reluctantly. "But stability can turn into stagnation, or worse, full blown cruel authoritarianism. And that isn''t our fight maybe, but here we are, handing him our blessings."


    The Ancient One''s eyes sparkled with quiet amusement. "Stability is not the enemy, Stephen. It is the foundation from which growth emerges. You fear tyranny, and perhaps rightly so, but tell me this - what would you have us do instead? Withdraw entirely? Hide within Kamar-Taj as the world falls to chaos once more? Who benefits from that? Would you prefer we wait for chaos to knock on our doors again, forcing us to react rather than stand prepared with allies backing us?"


    Stephen sighed but didn''t answer immediately, the weight of her logic settling on him.


    Wong shifted uncomfortably. "I understand the need to prevent chaos, Master, but do you trust Hammer? He may have brought peace, but peace built on such power often crumbles under its own weight, inviting the chaos you wish to avoid either way."


    The Ancient One leaned forward slightly, her gaze intensifying. "I trust him to do what is necessary to protect the world, even if it means making difficult choices. That is why we do not aspire to rule alongside him. We are not politicians or conquerors. Our role is to advise, to safeguard against mystical threats, and to ensure that this stability endures long enough for the world to evolve. And should Hammer''s reign turn to tyranny, it will not be by our hand. Yet a tyrant is not so bad, compared to what we fight, no?"


    Mordo''s jaw tightened, but he couldn''t deny the wisdom in her words. "And what of Asgards Godess of Death, Hela?" He pressed. "You know she''s a loose cannon. Hammer has her wreaking havoc across the galaxy. Doesn''t that concern you? Will that not bring threats to our door?"


    The Ancient One smiled faintly, taking a small sip of tea before speaking. "Hela''s destiny in Ragnarok was written long before Justin Hammer ever set foot in Asgard''s shadows. She is a force of nature, Mordo, one that even gods struggled to contain. The fact that she is currently wreaking havoc among slavers and criminals rather than threatening Earth speaks to Hammer''s understanding of how to redirect destruction rather than allow himself to be enamored with it."


    She and Odin had a understanding either way. She did not interfere in Asgards minor meddling on Earth, and Odin did not interfere in Kamar-Taj. The one eyed God was even amenable to assist should the Dark Dimension spill over. Hela as far as she was concerned fell under her agreement with Odin.


    Stephen folded his arms, skepticism still evident on his face. "So you think he can control her forever?"


    "No," The Ancient One admitted with a touch of sadness. "But I do not believe he seeks to. Control is an illusion. What he seeks is management - guiding dangerous forces toward productive outlets. In this, he mirrors our own teachings. We do not destroy dark magic simply for existing; we contain it, understand it, and use it to prevent greater harm through our understanding."


    Wong tapped his fingers on his thigh, his brow furrowed in thought. "You''re saying that by working with Hammer, we''re preventing larger catastrophes that would have come about without a united Earth?"


    "Yes," She said simply. "And we are gaining something invaluable in return - allies. Should an interdimensional incursion occur, we will not face it alone. Hammer''s forces, his technology, and his use of the Power Stone could mean the difference between victory and annihilation."


    As could his divine attachment to humanity as a concept. But she was already overwhelming them with enough without bringing divinity to the table.


    Stephen''s lips pressed into a thin line. "And if he turns that power against us?"


    The Ancient One reached for her tea once more, sipping it delicately before setting it down. "Then we will do as we have always done - adapt. But for now, Hammer does not see us as enemies, nor do we see him as one. The world is in a rare state of peace, and peace is fertile ground for growth, healing, and understanding, no matter who rules it."


    Silence fell over the chamber as the three men absorbed her words. The lanterns on the wall behind her casting shadows across their contemplative faces.


    Finally, Mordo exhaled, his posture softening slightly. "I still don''t like it."


    You never will, she thought sadly.


    "You''re not meant to," She said out loud with a gentle smile. "Change is never comfortable, especially when it challenges our ideals. But remember this. The greatest mistake a guardian can make is refusing to see when the world is shifting beneath their feet."


    Wong nodded slowly, though hesitation lingered in his gaze. "I understand, Master."


    Stephen remained silent for a moment longer before finally speaking. "I''m not convinced," He admitted, "but I''ll trust you."


    The Ancient One''s smile widened slightly, and she inclined her head. "That is all I ask."


    With that, she took another sip of tea, savoring its warmth as her students pondered their next steps. For now, at least, the balance was preserved.


    The future?


    It was delightfully cloudy now.


    <hr>


    August 1st, 2010, Cambridge, Massachusetts.


    The midday sun cast its warm glow over the sprawling campus nestled just a stone''s throw away from the prestigious halls of MIT. The new James Rhodes School for Heroes gleamed with fresh polish, its glass and steel architecture seamlessly blending with pockets of greenery and open spaces designed for both academic study and physical training.


    The central quad buzzed with energy as potential students, faculty, media personnel, and invited guests gathered, murmuring in anticipation of the speech inaugurating the building.


    Built in a month, no less. Hammer Industries wasting no expense, Stark industries chipping in with a large donation.


    On a raised podium, Tony Stark adjusted his tie, his gaze sweeping over the crowd before landing briefly on the massive bronze statue of James "Rhodey" Rhodes positioned at the heart of the quad. The statue depicted him mid-flight in his War Machine armor, a reminder of the courage and sacrifice the man had embodied.


    You would have acted like you hated this, while secretly being thrilled about it, he thought with some melancholy.


    Justin stood nearby, nodding politely to key figures in attendance. To his side, Jessica Jones waited, sunglasses perched on her head, the new headmistress of the school showing a quiet air of confidence and strength.


    Tony cleared his throat, stepping forward to the podium. As the murmurs subsided, he began, his voice calm but carrying the weight of deep emotion.


    "When I think of heroes, I think of a man who didn''t ask to be celebrated or recognized. James Rhodes was a hero long before he put on the War Machine armor. Back when it was just him and me, with me causing problems and Rhodey cleaning up after me. He always did that, you know - clean up after my messes."


    A soft chuckle rippled through the crowd, lightening the somber atmosphere momentarily.


    "Rhodey was more than a soldier or a man in a suit of armor. He was a man who believed in doing what was right, even when it was hard. Especially when it was hard. When Magneto and his forces turned the world upside down, Rhodey knew he was walking into what would likely be his last mission. But did he hesitate? Not once."


    Tony paused, taking a moment to compose himself, exhaling through his nose as the memories swirled around him.


    "He knew what was at stake, not just for him, but for everyone. And he still flew in because that''s who he was. He didn''t fight because he had to. He fought because he wanted to protect people. It wasn''t about being a superhero. It was about being a good person."


    A wave of applause broke out, and Tony stepped back for a moment, letting the noise wash over him before continuing.


    "James Rhodes wasn''t born with powers. He didn''t wake up one day with a destiny written in the stars. He built himself into a hero. And that''s what this school is about. It''s about giving the next generation the tools they need to protect others, to inspire others, and to make a difference. Whether they''re flying through the skies or or becoming a super therapist - they''ll do it with Rhodey''s spirit as their guide."


    Tony''s voice dropped slightly, turning more intimate as he added, "We named this school after him not because of how he died, but because of how he lived. With heart, courage, and the belief that one person can make a difference."


    The crowd erupted into applause once more, some wiping away tears as Tony nodded solemnly, stepping away from the podium. Justin clapped beside him, leaning in briefly.


    "You nailed it."


    This jerk doesn''t have a sensitive bone in his body, Tony thought with some exasperation, yet unable to stop a slight smirk from appearing, the familiar routine immediately shaking off some of his malaise.


    Jessica Jones extended her hand, her grip firm as she shook Tony''s hand for the cameras.


    "Let''s make sure this place does Colonel Rhodes proud," She said, her voice low but full of conviction.


    Tony nodded. "You have big shoes to fill, headmistress."


    Justin took his turn, shaking hands with both Tony and Jessica, posing briefly for the press before the three of them began to disperse. As Tony and Justin walked toward the campus entrance, Domino followed a few paces behind, her sharp gaze scanning the surroundings for potential threats.


    Tony glanced back at her. "You know, she''s really overkill."


    "Would you prefer a sudden case of unaliving?" Justin quipped.


    Tony snorted. "No, I like living. Just making an observation."


    As they passed one of the school''s newly constructed dormitories, Tony tilted his head toward Jessica''s retreating figure. "Isn''t she a bit young to be running this place?"


    Justin smirked. "She has good instincts, super strength, and - most importantly - she''ll steer the idiots who enroll here into investigative work instead of charging into battle and punching everything in sight. When she started her hero career, she somehow ended up creating a private eye agency for street level superheroes, investigating crimes beyond the police, so she''s level headed. Besides, she''s got Charles Xavier as a consultant if she ever needs advice. He''s on the board."


    Tony raised an eyebrow. "Xavier, huh? That''s a hell of a resource."


    "Also, I slept with her sister, so I''m keeping it in the family." Justin added as an afterthought.


    "Alright, now that I believe." Tony said with a shake of his head.


    They continued walking, moving toward the section of the campus dedicated to engineering and technological work for those heroes so inclined. Tony smiling in memory of his time at MIT with Rhodey as they passed the building.


    "Let''s talk Pym particles," Tony said soon afterwards, rubbing his hands together. "Banner''s been a massive help. We''re days - maybe a week away - from cracking miniaturization without needing to ration Pym particles."


    Justin grinned happily. "That''s the best news I''ve heard all day."


    Tony pulled up a hologram of the starship he''d been designing when he had a moment between work and Pepper moving on from the particles already in his excitement. "Once we get the space dock operational, we can begin building this beauty. She''ll be the first homegrown lady in Earth''s defense fleet."


    Justin whistled, studying the design. "Tell me what you''re thinking."


    Tony flicked his wrist, and the hologram shifted to display the ship''s outer hull. The dark design was not too dissimilar from a Star Wars star destroyer, without the dumbass bridge. It shimmered under the simulated light, giving the vessel an almost predatory appearance.


    "Vibranium-alloy for the outermost layer," Tony confirmed. "It''ll give us resistance against kinetic impacts and small-scale energy weapons from fighters. But we''re also adding an adaptive energy-dissipation system underneath. Think of it like a flexible, reactive skin. It absorbs energy blasts and redistributes the force, reducing overall damage."


    Justin whistled softly. "Impressive. Expensive as hell, but impressive."


    Tony grinned. "Hey, you''re the richest man on the planet. If anyone can afford it, you can."


    "Sounds like overkill," Justin remarked snarkily, echoing Tonys earlier words, though his tone suggested approval.


    Tony smirked. "There''s no such thing when you''re dealing with the wider universe."


    They walked further, the conversation shifting seamlessly from shield harmonics to crew capacity and training programs. The two men, innovators in their own right, fed off each other''s energy, pushing ideas forward with every step.


    Justin nodded approvingly minutes later. "Alright, you''ve sold me on the design. But I still think it''s premature to start training a crew when we haven''t even started building the damn thing."


    Tony made a dismissive motion, "Why? The ship''s core system is finalized. Sure, there might be some minor tweaks during construction, but the core systems won''t change. We know what the crew will need to learn, so why wait?"


    Justin frowned, tapping his fingers against his leg. "It just feels¡­ Off. Training people for a ship that doesn''t exist yet."


    Not to mention he knew Tony, and by the time the ship started construction, the blueprint would have been upgraded ten times over..


    Tony shrugged. "That''s what simulators are for. We''ll create virtual environments where they can run through scenarios, learn the ship''s layout, and get familiar with the controls. By the time the ship is built, they''ll be experts."


    Justin considered that for a moment. "And you''re confident the simulators will be accurate?"


    Tony grinned. "I''m Tony Stark. I don''t do half-measures."


    Justin chuckled, shaking his head. "Fine. But if this backfires and we have a crew that thinks they know what they''re doing but ends up crashing the ship, I''m holding you personally responsible."


    He''d eat his tie if Tony didn''t have an improvement already thought up before they built the first simulator¡­


    "Trust me, what''s the worst that could happen?" Tony said, spreading his arms wide.


    "Domino, record this for posterity, so I can blame Stark when our first ship becomes a black hole and devours Earth."


    <hr>


    The next day, Hammerhaven.


    Justin strode forward, flanked by Emma Frost and Domino, having just portaled in, having been off overseeing Storm begin recruitment for a metahuman division for the Federations planetary defense first response force.


    Namor had arrived for his appointment, so it was time to see if king fishstick had truly managed to swallow his pride.


    Justin glanced toward Emma, his gaze assessing. Her pristine white suit hugged her figure perfectly, heels clicking softly on the floor as she kept pace with him, her demeanor cool and controlled. He arched an eyebrow, offering a faint smirk. "I hope you''re intelligent enough to understand why you''re along for this, Emma."


    She was a competent underling, but her demeanor made him just want to rub everything in her face all the time.


    Emma''s lips curved into a small, irritable twist, as she returned his gaze, one perfectly arched brow rising in response. "Oh, don''t worry. I''m aware, sir." Her voice was smooth and laced with just enough condescension to remind him she wasn''t one of his women. "And don''t concern yourself. If Namor is plotting or planning to break the deal he''s here to make, you''ll be the first to know."


    Justin chuckled softly, satisfied for the moment. They approached the reinforced door ahead, the steel sliding open with a whisper of hydraulics. Inside, the room was well-lit and minimalist, Sunil Bakshi sat at the end of the long conference table, hands folded neatly in front of him.


    Across the room, Namor, the king of Talokan, sat stiffly, his piercing gaze locked onto Justin the moment he entered. There was no warmth in those eyes, only the simmering resentment of a man who despised everything about this meeting. His delegation, composed of Talokan warriors in ceremonial looking armor, flanked him in silence, their expressions stoic but their presence heavy with implied threat.


    A pointless gesture, as Emma alone could fry their brains before they as much as twitched.


    Domino leaned in slightly toward Justin as they walked in. "Is it me, or is the whole ''glaring death at you'' thing starting early today? I had it scheduled for five ''o clock.


    Justin chuckled, "Never change, Domino."


    She preened, "Why would I? I''m perfect."


    Emma gave her a look of pure irritation, to which Domino maturely responded by sticking her tongue out.


    Namor rose to his feet, his movement fluid despite the tension in his shoulders. His regal armor clung to him like a second skin, as he crossed his arms over his chest as he addressed the room, his voice rich with disdain. "Before we begin, let me make something clear surface dwellers." He began pacing, his bare feet padding across the cold floor. "The people of Talokan are proud. We do not bend easily, and we do not forgive betrayal or disrespect, we have a rich history, one we''ve built all on our own, with our own hands. This is not a surrender, just an acknowledgement of necessity."


    Justin leaned back in his chair, arms draped lazily over the armrests as if he were enjoying a casual conversation over drinks. "Are you done stroking yourself, or are we getting to the point sometime today?" His tone was laced with enough condescension to make Sunil briefly glance his, hiding a sigh.


    Namor growled low in his throat, the sound more beast than man. His nostrils flared, but he sat down, his fists clenching as he leaned forward slightly. "Fine," He spat, his voice like venom. "We accept the proposal. Talokan''s people and as much Vibranium as we can transport will be transferred to another planet, one with little surface and minimal interference from dry-landers. But make no mistake, I chose this, you did not force me here."


    Justin''s lips twitched in amusement as he leaned forward slightly. "Morag is lovely this time of year, he said, ignoring the way Namor''s jaw tightened at how casual he was. "And the local fauna? Well, they''re probably big enough to swallow a person whole with ease. But you and your people are warriors, right? You''ll manage."


    Morag was the choice simply because he knew it had a lot of water. He didn''t want to waste time hunting down a new planet. Namor could take it or leave it.


    The Talokan king glared daggers at him, but he didn''t rise to the bait. Instead, he exhaled slowly, shoulders relaxing slightly as he looked to his delegation. "Talokan is not a place," He said quietly almost to himself, though his words carried weight. "It''s a people. We can rebuild elsewhere. I will not cause the death of my people due to pride."


    There was a bitterness in the way he said it, a venom that hinted at how much it pained him to take this route. Justin recognized that tone well - he''d heard it from men forced to make impossible choices, they just never somehow made the right choice.


    Yet, here they were.


    What a novel thing. He supposed he could live without one last genocide¡­


    "You''re making the smart call," Justin said, leaning back again. "Not the easy one, but the smart one."


    Namor said nothing. He didn''t need to. The tension in his body spoke volumes about how much this decision cost him personally. If he didn''t have his people to think about, Justin had no doubt Namor would have gladly chosen a fight.


    "Well then," Justin continued, brushing imaginary dust off his suit. "We have a deal. My people will transfer you and yours through the portals, along with whatever belongings you can carry. Once you''re settled, I suggest you focus on making sure you don''t actually get eaten by any alien whales or something, it would be a shame."


    Namor gave a curt nod but didn''t rise. His glare remained fixed on Justin, as if memorizing his every feature so he could curse him later.


    As the Talokan delegation began to leave, Justin added, "You might be the one adversary I can actually respect." And he meant it too.


    Namor stopped, his back straight but his shoulders tense. He slowly turned, his gaze narrowing. "What did you say?"


    Justin shrugged, meeting his gaze without flinching. "You hate me. That''s fine - most of my enemies do, and some of my friends. But unlike them, you went beyond your hate and chose your people. You''re the only one of my enemies who''s done that, and frankly, that''s impressive." He smirked slightly. "Good on you. I hope you manage to survive."


    Namor stared at him for a moment longer, his expression unreadable. Without a word, he turned and left, his warriors falling into formation behind him.


    As the door closed, Justin exhaled, leaning back once more. His gaze shifted toward Emma, who had remained silent throughout most of the meeting.


    Emma smoothed her white gloves, her gaze thoughtful. "He never once lied," She said softly. "He hates you and wants nothing more than to kill you. But he loves his people more than he hates you."


    Justin grunted, his fingers drumming against the armrest. "I almost feel slighted." He should be the number one priority on anyone''s mind.


    Domino, who had been leaning casually against the wall, smirked. "Don''t worry. You''ll always have the Middle East if you''re looking for belligerance."


    Justin groaned, rubbing his temples. "Fuck the Middle East. It''s a pain in my ass. It''s going to take decades to get them up to speed with the rest of the planet. They drag their feet on every little change."


    Emma''s lips twitched into a smirk. "I don''t know why you''re complaining." She said, belatedly adding a, "Sir," The last word tacked on with faint sarcasm. "You''re not the one spending hours and days fighting bureaucrats and politicans to upgrade even basic roads, they''ll fight me even on tne most minor tweaks."


    "Ah, yes, I forgot that was your problem." Justin said, his smirk returning. "Suddenly, I feel much better. Domino, let''s get pizza from Naples, Sunil, you in?"


    Sunil shook his head, rising to collect his tablet. "I have work, sir. Someone made me the President of a major nation¡­"


    Emma folded her arms, giving them both a withering look. "I suppose I''m not invited?"


    Justin gave her a faux-sympathetic look. "Sorry, fully booked." Uncaring that the lie was obvious, having just asked Sunil.


    Emma was just so perfectly bullyable.


    Her eyes narrowed, as she let out a drawn out sigh. "Can I tender my resignation?"


    "Once you''re done your current job, sure." He agreed amicably.


    "Latest projections say it''s going to take 23 and a half years to fully build up the infrastructure across the entirety of Earth unless you release Pym particles for everything..." She said crossly.


    "Sorry." Justin said insincerely, "Infrastructure is at the bottom of the list, since some of it will invariably blow up whenever we get invaded."


    "Insincere bastard," Emma muttered under her breath.


    Justin just gave her a wave as he exited the room to go eat pizza and shock some local business owner by suddenly appearing in their humble pizzeria.


    It was good to be him.


    <hr>


    Savage Lands, August 6th, 2010.


    The portal closed behind Justin, leaving him standing amidst the chaotic hum of a burgeoning military base. He adjusted the cuffs of his suit jacket, the humidity causing his shirt to cling slightly to his skin as he surveyed the scene. Around him, the base pulsed with life - soldiers moving in formation, engineers directing machinery, everything humming with the effort of transforming the wild terrain into something controlled and productive.


    The Savage Land stretched endlessly beyond the perimeter of the camp, thick with prehistoric trees, enormous ferns, and wildlife that would have been extinct anywhere else. Here, dinosaurs roamed freely alongside strange humanoid natives. But not for long, if his plans came to fruition.


    He might keep a zoo or something, just for his own amusement.


    "Mr. Hammer," Brock Rumlow greeted, his boots crunching against the hard-packed dirt as he approached. He was dressed in combat gear, his tactical vest laden with grenades and ammunition, a rifle slung over his back.


    "Welcome to the jungle," He said with a smirk, his hand gesturing toward the expanse around them. "Sorry to say the suit is a bit banged up, so I''m all natural at the moment."


    Justin''s gaze swept across the camp, noting the soldiers patrolling the perimeter and the construction vehicles ripping through the dense foliage. Heavy machinery rolled over the underbrush, crushing everything in its path. Watchtowers stood at regular intervals, manned by soldiers who scanned the jungle with cold efficiency. Drones buzzed overhead like mechanical bees, their cameras feeding information back to the command tents.


    Domino followed closely behind Justin, her presence as casual as ever, but her sharp eyes missed nothing. He didn''t necessarily need a bodyguard anymore, but she apparently got antsy if he sent her away too many times.


    "I see you''ve been making progress," Justin commented, his voice calm but carrying an undertone of satisfaction. "It''s a far cry from the reports of a stalemate a few weeks ago."


    Apparently they had simply lacked some¡­ Brutality. He supposed it was normal for soldiers who had grown up with the Geneva convention. They''d have to adjust the simulators.


    Brock nodded, his expression darkening slightly as he led them past a group of soldiers unloading crates of equipment. "Yeah, it was rough in the beginning. The jungle''s a nightmare for conventional tactics, and some of our boys weren''t ready for it, even after retraining. But once we took the gloves off - " He gestured toward a distant plume of smoke rising beyond the tree line. "The natives didn''t stand a chance."


    They passed a soldier shouting orders to a unit of workers as they dismantled a small village built into the trees. The settlement had clearly seen better days - huts burned, crude weapons scattered, and bodies being cleared away as part of the cleanup efforts. The natives of the Savage Land, humanoids with reptilian features and primitive weapons, had been formidable in their knowledge of the terrain. But they weren''t invincible.


    The hulking brutes carrying weapons juiced up from celestial tech had been the major issue, but further reports had shown that they were a minority. The reports he''d received told of the Vulture and Scorpion crushing them.


    "You''re making short work of them now," Justin observed, pausing to watch a group of soldiers escorting a line of prisoners that would be transferred to Helen Cho to be examined. The natives shuffled forward, their eyes filled with a mix of fear and defiance.


    "Frank and I don''t play by the rules, and once the troops got with the program things eased up. Between him and me, we''ve broken their morale. No more waiting for ambushes. No more skirmishes we can''t finish because we''re not willing to burn down everything around us. We push forward, clear them out, and destroy their strongholds with extreme prejudice."


    Justin nodded approvingly. "Good. The sooner we clear this place, the better. The Savage is a gold mine." He looked over at Domino, who was watching the soldiers with mild disinterest.


    "What do you think, Dom? Soldier boys doing it for you?"


    She shrugged, her smirk widening. "It''s getting there. I''ll be impressed when they can clear a section without needing Frank or Brock to hold their hands." She mocked.


    Brock chuckled, leading them past another cluster of tents where medics were examining native corpses. "Give them time. They''re learning."


    As they approached the command tent, Justin noticed several crates marked with the insignia of salvaged tech. His eyes gleamed with interest as he paused to inspect one. The lid had been removed, revealing fragments of strange metallic circuitry that pulsed faintly with residual energy even while disassembled.


    "Celestial tech," Brock said, following Justin''s gaze. "We''ve been pulling it from their villages and outposts. The natives were using it to power weapons and defenses, but they didn''t know how to properly control it, the nerds say they weren''t even using half of its potential. They were lucky not to blow themselves up."


    Justin crouched down, running a hand over one of the glowing fragments. "It''s incredible, isn''t it? The things they were sitting on without even realizing the value. With this kind of tech Sinister was able to compete with the worst and best of the world. The things we could do with it if we discover it''s secrets¡­"


    "We''ve already shipped a few loads through the portals," Brock added. "Forge and Vanko are like kids in a candy store back at the lab. They''re tearing through this stuff."


    "Make sure every last piece of it gets back to them," Justin ordered, standing up and dusting off his hands. "No delays, no excuses. We can''t afford to let anything slip through the cracks."


    Brock nodded firmly. "Understood."


    Justin straightened his jacket, his mind already racing with possibilities. Celestial technology combined with vibranium and adamantium? The potential was limitless. "Speaking of resources, what have we found in terms of raw materials? Vibranium, adamantium - anything else worth noting?"


    Brock gestured toward a series of excavation sites visible in the distance. "We''ve hit several deposits of vibranium already. Small, but significant. We''re still scouting for larger sourcex. As for adamantium, we''ve detected traces, but we haven''t pinpointed a major source yet - according to prisoners it''s created by a machine but they don''t know where. The jungle makes it slow going, but we''ll get there."


    Justin''s lips curved into a satisfied smile. "Good. Once we have enough vibranium and adamantium, it will push us even further ahead of our future enemies. The Savage Land is going to be the foundation of our future."


    They continued walking, passing a team of engineers assembling what looked like a portable power generator. Nearby, soldiers loaded crates onto transport vehicles that would be driven through the portals and back to Hammer facilities.


    "Once the resources are extracted, what''s the long-term plan?" Brock asked, glancing at Justin.


    "We tear this jungle down," Justin said without hesitation. "Turn it into farmland or something useful. It''s the perfect testing ground for our agricultural experiments. We''ve already made strides in boosting crop yields, but with this biome, we could push it even further. The Savage Land will be a resource in every sense of the word - minerals, tech, agriculture. Nothing goes to waste."


    "And the natives?" Brock asked, grinning darkly.


    Justin didn''t even blink. "Eliminate them."


    Brock smiled, pleased. "Understood."


    <hr>


    August 11th, 2010, Hammerhaven


    The room was cloaked in shadow, the only light seeping through the gaps in the blinds casting faint, broken lines across the polished mahogany desk. The air was cool and still, save for the quiet hum of the building''s ventilation. It was late. Or early. Justin wasn''t sure which anymore - he didn''t check the time, and he didn''t care to. His hand trembled slightly as he traced the edges of the photo resting between his fingers, the glossy surface worn smooth in places where he had touched it too often.


    Hope Van Dyne smiled back at him from a moment frozen in time. Her face, radiant and full of life, was framed by soft waves of brown hair, and her eyes - those eyes - seemed to twinkle with a spark that had always drawn him in, back when things had been... Simpler.


    Simpler wasn''t the right word perhaps, but at least back then, he could have still played at being human.


    With recent events, and what was coming¡­ She was in his thoughts more than ever.


    "I''m sorry," He whispered, his voice barely audible. The words clung to the darkness around him, desperate and raw. "I''m so sorry, Hope."


    His one real regret. His biggest failure. And with what he was planning, it almost felt like another betrayal to do what he was doing.


    Silly perhaps, but it was why he was sitting here, examining his emotions, his memories.


    He leaned back in his chair, the leather creaking under him as he stared at the picture like it could answer him, like it could undo the years of choices and consequences that now separated them even should he succeed in bringing her back.


    Nowadays? Justin Hammer, the god of humanity, savior of Earth, and ruler of nations, wasn''t even sure if his heart beat the same way it had back then.


    "You wouldn''t recognize me," He said somewhat bitterly, brushing his thumb over her image. "Hell, you probably wouldn''t want to."


    Her death had been the beginning of his metamorphosis, of him taking the final step, just like the Ancient One had wanted. Apocalypse had taken her in a world-shattering moment, and he hadn''t been able to stop it. He''d failed her. Not just by losing her, but by everything that had come after.


    It had been necessary, and now, after it all, he wasn''t sure he would make a different choice, which was an even larger betrayal of how he''d felt for her.


    "I thought I could be better for you, if we ended up together." He admitted to the photo, to himself. "I thought I''d build something you''d be proud of eventually, that you''d be on my side once you saw the necessity. Save the world the right way. But... I didn''t build it for you, did I? I built it for me."


    The dark room seemed to press closer around him, suffocating and oppressive, as he leaned forward and buried his face in his hands, the photo still clutched tightly. His breath came slow and weary, the emotions he kept buried clawing their way to the surface.


    He hadn''t dealt with it, all this time.


    He''d loved her. He was certain of it now, even if he hadn''t fully realized it back then. He''d been too consumed by his ambitions, too blind to the depth of what they''d had until it was too late. Until she was gone, and all he could do was replay their moments together in his mind like a broken record.


    "Would you hate me now?" He asked softly, lifting his head and meeting her gaze in the photo once more. "For what I''ve done?"


    He let the question hang in the air, though he already knew the answer. Hope had been principled, compassionate, and fiercely loyal to her family despite her frustrations. And he''d destroyed that family. He''d dismantled Pym Industries piece by piece and handed the scraps to Tony Stark. He''d orchestrated Hank Pym''s death, ensuring the man would never be a threat to him.


    Would she ever forgive him for that? No, he thought bitterly. She wouldn''t.


    But she''d be alive one day, he''d ensure it. She would be back.


    That''s what mattered. He could bring her back. He would bring her back, no matter the cost. The Ancient One had warned him against meddling with time, but Justin didn''t care. He''d defied gods, rewritten the fate of nations, and risen to power beyond anyone''s wildest dreams. He could do this too. He had to do this.


    One day.


    Even if she never spoke to him again. Even if she hated him for eternity.


    "I''ll fix this," He whispered, almost as an apology. "I don''t care if you never look at me again, if you leave the second you''re back. You''ll be back. That''s the only thing that matters."


    "I didn''t forget you," He said softly to the picture. "Even when I tried. Even when it was easier to pretend you weren''t haunting me."


    He leaned back in his chair, the weight of the confession leaving him drained. The room felt heavier now, like it had absorbed the emotions he''d let out and refused to let them go. The silence was deafening, but he welcomed it.


    Slowly, he placed the photo back on the desk, smoothing it out gently before leaning forward, his elbows resting on the polished surface. He had needed to do this. To delve into his emotions, to the hurt and anger and fear he''d hidden away.


    He''d needed to lance the boil, this wasn''t something he could keep carrying into the future. It wouldn''t be fair.


    He was turning a new chapter, he couldn''t let Hope and his buried feelings ruin things.


    Hope¡­ I''ll save you one day¡­


    Not for myself, but because you deserve to live a happy full life¡­


    <hr>


    August 14th, 2010, Hammerhaven.


    The air was cool and crisp on the balcony of Justin''s room in Hammerhaven. From this height, the city glittered below them, its lights stretching as far as the eye could see, the pulse of humanity in its most efficient form. Above them, the night sky was a sea of infinite stars, the darkness wrapping around the two figures standing on the balcony.


    Justin stood behind Yelena, his arms encircling her waist, holding her gently yet securely. His chin rested on her shoulder, the warmth of his breath brushing against her neck. She leaned into him, her hands resting over his arms, their fingers loosely intertwined. The silence between them wasn''t awkward - it was warm, shared, and comforting, a moment that needed no words.


    "You''re unusually quiet tonight," Yelena murmured, her voice soft yet playful. "Not that I''m complaining. It''s nice." Her gaze was on the stars, her lips curved in a small, content smile. "But it''s not like you to just stand here without some world-altering plan brewing in that head of yours."


    Justin smirked against her shoulder, pressing a soft kiss there. "I have a plan, alright. But tonight, it''s not about changing the world. Although it is world changing perhaps."


    "Oh?" She tilted her head slightly, side-eyeing him. "Then why are we still standing here?"


    "Just wait for it," He whispered into her ear, his tone low, sending a small shiver down her spine.


    Yelena was about to ask what exactly she was waiting for when the first explosion of light bloomed across the sky like fireworks, vivid and brilliant against the dark canvas. Her breath caught as the second followed, then a third, each blast of color forming shimmering letters in the night sky.


    YELENA


    Her mouth fell open, her mind racing as the next explosion of light followed.


    WILL


    "You didn''t¡­" She whispered, disbelief and awe filling her voice.


    YOU


    Her fingers tightened around his as she watched the letters continue to form.


    MARRY


    She turned in his arms, her wide eyes locking on his.


    ME


    The final word burst in a kaleidoscope of light, painting the sky with its brilliance. Yelena''s lips trembled, her breath hitching as tears began to pool in her eyes. She faced him fully, her heart pounding so hard she thought he might hear it. Her gaze dropped, and that''s when she saw it.


    Justin was holding out an exquisite ring, the jewel catching the starlight. His expression was warm, loving, but there was a seriousness in his eyes, a vulnerability hidden beneath his usual confidence.


    "Every Emperor needs an Empress," He said softly, his voice steady yet filled with emotion. "You''ve never once hesitated, never wavered. You''ve been my confidant, my partner, my lover, and my best friend. I''m the God Emperor," He added with a playful smile, "So I won''t kneel, but please, Yelena Hammer, Empress of Earth - accept this ring and be mine forever."


    The tears spilled freely now, glistening trails running down her cheeks. She tried to speak, but her throat tightened, her emotions crashing over her like waves. Finally, she managed to choke out, "Yes¡­ Of course, yes."


    Her hand trembled as she extended it, allowing him to slide the ring onto her finger. The band was warm against her skin, as though it held the heat of his love, the stone glowing faintly in the dim light.


    "You''re shaking," Justin murmured, brushing his thumb over her knuckles.


    "I''m crying," She corrected, giggling through the tears. "And you''re such an ass, you waited until August so Domino wouldn''t win the pool didn''t you?"


    Justin chuckled, his eyes never leaving hers. "Would I do that?" Before switching the subject."The ring is made of Uru, the same metal used to craft Mjolnir." He brushed his fingers over the band as he spoke. "The jewels? One of a kind. Bought off Asgardian traders after they scavenged it from the remains of a collapsed star. These don''t even have a name yet. They''re that rare."


    Yelena let out a watery laugh, swiping at her tears with the back of her hand. "Of course, you''d get me something from a collapsed star. You couldn''t settle for something normal, could you?"


    "Never," He said, his voice low and intimate. "You deserve more than normal. You deserve the universe."


    Her gaze softened, her fingers curling around his. "And what about the fireworks in space? How did you pull that off?"


    Justin smirked, clearly pleased with himself. "Added a few dozen extra satellites to the orbital defense net, preloaded them with the materials for the display. They''ve been waiting for this moment."


    She gasped, her eyes wide. "You mean this proposal cost -"


    "Around 15 billion dollars," Justin finished with a grin.


    Yelena playfully smacked his chest, her laughter filling the air. "You insane, wonderful nerd."


    As the last flickers of light faded from the sky, Justin cupped her face, his thumb tracing the curve of her cheek. "Only for you, Yelena."


    Her lips met his, the kiss deep, warm, and filled with promise. She clung to him as though grounding herself, the enormity of the moment sinking in. When they finally pulled back, her forehead rested against his, their breaths mingling.


    "Dummy," She mumbled against his lips, earning another chuckle.


    But as she looked down at the ring on her finger, her tears began anew, though this time they weren''t just tears of joy. They were tears of relief, of hope. She had found her place, her home, and her forever - all in the arms of a man who saw her not as a weapon, not as a Black Widow - but as Yelena.


    Justin brushed his fingers through her hair, his voice soft. "You''re mine now, Yelena Hammer."


    "And you''re mine," She whispered. "Forever."


    <hr>

 Brave New World.

    <hr>


    February 1st, 2012, Johannesburg.


    The morning sunlight streamed through the window of Marcus Keller''s apartment. He stirred beneath the soft covers of his bed, yawning as his mental implant buzzed lightly with the gentle hum of a preset alarm. A soft whisper of sound echoed in his ears, reminding him of the news briefing he''d scheduled to read later during his commute. He rubbed his eyes, stretched his arms, and rolled out of bed.


    The apartment was modern, a product of its times, outfitted with the latest advancements Hammer Industries had made widely available to those lucky enough to afford it. With polished steel countertops, gleaming white walls, and floating shelves with warm lighting, it exuded quiet sophistication. Even the air smelled purified, thanks to the HammerTech filtration system running in the background.


    Still half-asleep, Marcus shuffled toward the kitchen, scratching his head as his bare feet padded across the polished floor. A faint acknowledging beep accompanied his command as he stopped in front of the sleek wall-mounted replicator unit.


    "Coffee, black. Bacon, crisp, three eggs over easy, two whole grain toast," He mumbled, stifling a yawn as his implant''s interface flickered lightly in the corner of his vision, his schedule for the day popping up, only to be swiped away with a thought.


    Later. Too early.


    The machine hummed with the faint energy signature of quantum particle manipulation. A flash of light blinked within the replicator''s transparent compartment, and a soft chime indicated the meal was ready. Marcus grabbed the steaming cup of coffee and the warm plate, bringing them over to his small dining table as he inhaled the rich aroma.


    "Blessed be Justin Hammer," Marcus muttered with a smile of appreciation, taking a sip of his coffee. The smooth bitterness spread across his tongue, waking him up fully. The bacon was crispy, the eggs cooked perfectly, and the toast had just the right amount of crunch. It was too bad the replicators were too energy intensive to be sold to the general public¡­


    One of the benefits of being a valued member of Hammer Industries'' more important divisions was getting first access to quality of life improvements like that.


    Even as so many things changed, some stayed the same, however. Even with this miracle improvement, unsatisfied peasants quibbled and whined that Hammer Industries was only limiting its availability to keep their market share of the food industry going.


    He snorted, shaking his head. Like the guiding light of their savior cared about petty money¡­


    As he ate mechanically, his mind turned elsewhere.


    His neural implant worked silently, interfacing with the Hammerweb. Marcus navigated through the daily news casually with his thoughts. Headlines zipped past in his mental display - "Asgard fleet expanding, treaty not being renewed? Trade war on the horizon?"


    Ungrateful alien scum, after all that was done to assist them to become more than they were - all with human ingenuity - they dared to complain!?


    He shook his head, dipping his toast in the yolk as he mentally swiped to another article, tired of hearing about Asgards gripes, of which there had been so many lately.


    "Baghdad completed work on the Basilica of Hammer, joining in the call for acceptance of religious freedom for the one true religion for the Middle East."


    About freaking time those uppity Arabs got with the program, he thought with slight disgruntlement, it''s ridiculous that they still hold on to silly made up religions when we have a walking divinity amongst us¡­


    "Armed rebellions in Saudi Arabia, Iran and Pakistan have been dismantled by H.A.M.M.E.R." ¡­Thought of that too soon I guess. What''s that? The fortieth Rebellion in the last year. He shook his head as he finished his eggs, they just never learn, at least most of them have conformed now.


    He chuckled to himself as he scrolled past a headline that sparked mild irritation.


    "New York Hammers fire coach, after 22nd straight loss."


    Change the name all you want, the team will never fail to fail. He should know, he was a born New Yorker. So he wasn''t surprised that even with divinity owning the team, they didn''t change their streak. Figures.


    With his breakfast finished, he placed the empty plate back in the replicator slot, letting it atomize the dish and recycle some of the energy. He grabbed his work bag from the counter and tapped a mental command to order his Uber. The implant synced with his preferences, and within moments, the status of his ride appeared in his mind - UberAir Executive Class - arrival in 3 minutes.


    Marcus got dressed quickly and whistled softly as he adjusted his tie, feeling the hum of satisfaction that came with being successful in a world that favored the bold.


    Being an engineer for Hammer Industries was a golden ticket. The salary was fantastic for one. Combined with the perks and benefits, he lived a life of luxury that would have been impossible just a few years ago.


    The buzzing sound of his taxi drew closer as his UberAir arrived, descending smoothly onto the designated landing pad outside his building. The glossy black vehicle opened its door automatically as Marcus stepped inside, settling into the plush leather seat. As the door slid shut, the automated flying car gently lifted off the ground and began its flight toward the city.


    He looked down at the car-filled streets filled with smugness. He was one of the lucky few able to afford the executive class air taxis. Other than them, (and the super wealthy) all air traffic was solely for use for emergency vehicles, the police and military.


    With the soft hum of the repulsors in the background, Marcus returned to browsing the news, flipping effortlessly between updates on technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and entertainment gossip. The sheer speed and connectivity provided by the implant left him in awe sometimes still. Everything felt so instant, so integrated. With a single thought, he could pull up schematics, review work assignments, or even access archived blueprints related to Hammer Industries space program.


    He knew many others had gone even further and replaced their very eyeballs with life-like cybernetic optics, to be able to further digitize their entire life. He''d been pondering it himself.


    He glanced out the tinted window, the familiar skyline of Johannesburg stretching out beneath him. The transformation was staggering for such a short time period as only shy of two years. The once vibrant but chaotic streets had been replaced by orderly boulevards, towering skyscrapers, and technological marvels that mirrored cities like New York or Shanghai. Hammer Industries had taken over the city''s development, turning it into a beacon of progress and innovation. Even the power grid operated entirely on clean energy from the Arc reactors spread across Africa.


    He''d been living in Johannesburg since before the change, and he couldn''t help but admire the view everyday. Proof that humanity was heading in the right direction, that the light of Hammer had been the right choice.


    "New York is just another city now, nothing special," Marcus mused, smiling smugly as he watched the bustling metropolis below. The vehicle banked smoothly toward the outskirts of the city, heading for the massive HammerTech Space Project Facility known as Spacedome Theta.


    The dome was an architectural marvel in its own right, a shimmering domed structure of reinforced glass that glinted under the morning sun. Automated checkpoints surrounded the perimeter, with drones buzzing around in calculated flight paths to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic as well as scanning all that entered.


    He''d heard before, the saying about giving up control and freedoms for security, and it was something he knew some rebels still crawled through the muck to proclaim. Personally, with how comfortable and exciting life was, he couldn''t care less that such scans took place.


    It protected them all from dissidents, those few mentally ill people who couldn''t accept a good thing when they saw it.


    The UberAir descended gracefully onto the designated executive landing pad. Marcus barely felt the bump as the vehicle touched down. His implant flashed with a notification prompting payment, and with a single thought, he approved the transaction through his HammerDominion bank account. The door unlocked automatically, allowing him to step out onto the landing pad.


    It''s so much easier now that the banks all merged into one central bank, he thought, his mind still on how much better life had become with all the waste disposed of by Hammer Industries and the Federation.


    Marcus glanced around, taking in the sight of the bustling facility. Workers moved like ants, each person fulfilling their role with purpose and efficiency. Large, state-of-the-art teleportation pads dotted the edge of the interior of the building, constantly blinking as civilians and employees alike were beamed up to the orbital spacedock, those that worked on the ground moving past them, further into the building.


    He walked past the long lines of civilians waiting their turn, many of them paying thousands of dollars to transport supplies, personnel, and materials into orbit or beyond. Their faces betrayed the strain of impatience, their eyes flashing briefly as they approved payments through their implants.


    Marcus smirked, bypassing the public queue entirely. He entered the employee section, where the line was much shorter. His implant synced with the facility''s systems, conducting a quick biometric scan to confirm his identity yet again. Once approved, he stepped onto the circular platform.


    "Clear for transport," The automated voice intoned. A soft hum of energy enveloped him, and with a brief flicker of light, Marcus was gone.


    The disorientation lasted only a second. When he opened his eyes, he was standing in the main atrium of Spacedock Hope - Terra Prime''s first orbital construction hub. He took a moment, as he always did, to appreciate the view from the massive observation windows.


    Terra Prime hung suspended in the black void of space, its blue and green surface marbled with white clouds. Terra Luna loomed in the distance the other way, connected to the station by a long construction tether, a long snake like structure that was huge in scope.


    Dozens of ships floated in the distance, ranging from small cargo haulers to larger capital ships still under construction. Automated drones zipped between them, welding and assembling parts with mechanical precision. The spacedock''s structure stretched along the tether, forming a continuous line of interconnected modules that extended toward Terra Luna. Terra''s fleet was small now, but not for long. With the rate of production, they would soon rival any force in the galaxy.


    Marcus felt a surge of pride as he turned toward his workstation. Today, his team was tasked with finalizing a series of energy shielding system improvements for the new fleet of cruisers being built along Terra Luna''s orbit. Tony Stark had spearheaded the early designs, but it was up to Hammer''s engineers to refine them and make them practical.


    Marcus arrived at his station, a circular workbench surrounded by holographic displays. He pulled up the latest schematics, his mind already racing with ideas on how to optimize the energy flow without compromising the shield''s integrity while still meeting budget demands.


    Tony Stark was undoubtedly a genius second only to the blessed one, but his ideas tended to stretch further than what the fleet''s budget could handle.


    As he worked, he couldn''t help but think back to how far humanity had come in such a short time. A few years ago, he had been just another engineer working on mundane projects. Now, he was part of something bigger - something that would secure humanity''s dominance among the stars. With each passing day, they inched closer to a future where Terra Prime would no longer be at the mercy of alien invaders or cosmic threats.


    The Federation was strong, unified under a single vision, and Marcus knew deep down that they were on the right path. Humanity''s superiority wasn''t just a dream¡­


    It was inevitable.


    <hr>


    February 1st, 2012, Night City, the Atlantic.


    Night City, although only finished less than six months ago, was already known for its defiance of nature and law alike, a neon wonderland of sin, vice, and unrestrained freedom.


    Suspended in the air above the Atlantic, by advanced anti-gravity engines built from HammerTech and Stark Industries designs, the city was an untouchable haven for anyone looking to escape the rules of society. It thrived on chaos, pulsing with endless energy as neon billboards flickered and distorted advertisements hawked everything from black-market mods to illicit pleasure bots.


    Here, there were almost no regulations and oversight, and most importantly - no religion or conformity. Anything went in Night City. That''s why people flocked here from across the world, desperate to feel alive and free. It wasn''t a place where most thrived, it was a place where you lived fast, wild, and without consequence... Or at least until someone stronger decided otherwise.


    The roar of an engine echoed off the neon-drenched streets of Night City. The street glistened from an earlier rainfall, reflecting the flashing signs of strip clubs, casinos, and drug stores plastered haphazardly along the towering metal buildings. In the distance, pulsing lights from the bars and brothels made the whole city glow like a wicked carnival.


    A jet-black car - practically a rocket with wheels - sped through the chaos of it all, its engine growling like a beast ready to tear through the night. The car''s frame skimmed inches above the ground, outfitted with neon underglow. Haphazard mods attached gave it some protection and additional speed, as an unlucky tourist was left as a splat on the road, too slow to dodge the impromptu racers.


    Inside, a bunny-eared driver grinned wickedly, her foot glued to the accelerator. Her platinum-blonde hair was tied back, streaks of electric blue peeking from beneath her ears, and a pair of blonde bunny ears twitched slightly as she adjusted her grip on the steering wheel. Tattoos covered her arms - inked memories of her time surviving in Night City, each symbol a badge of glory and madness.


    And of course, having bio modded herself as a bunny girl, she had the fluffy poof of a tail to prove it too.


    Her name was Jinx, her previous identity thrown away when she arrived, though the locals just called her the Bunny Queen. And right now, her heart raced faster than the speedometer climbing steadily past 180 mph.


    Beside her, her girlfriend Roxxy, a fox girl with three fluffy orange tails and fox ears perched atop her fiery hair, popped out of the car''s sunroof. Cackling like a madwoman, she threw her middle fingers in the air, aimed directly at the silver muscle car chasing them down. "Suck my tails, Terry!" She shouted, her voice practically swallowed by the rushing wind.


    Jinx laughed, her fingers on one hand tightening around her tails to keep her from falling off, while the other hand was on the wheel. "Sit your ass down before you fly off, Rox! I can''t afford to scrape you off the pavement."


    It would be a total waste of the mods she''d splurged on for her. She couldn''t wait to win this race and go flip her girls skirt up so they could both enjoy her new¡­ addition.


    God, Hammer fucking sucked, but this one thing he did right.


    "I got this!" Roxxy grinned, her tails whipping behind her as she held on to the roof with one hand. "We''re leaving that cyborg freak in the dust!"


    Behind them, the massive chrome-plated muscle car belonging to Terry "The Tank" Jackson roared like a demon possessed.


    Terry wasn''t just any racer - he was a cyborg with most of his body replaced by mechanical upgrades, making him faster, stronger, and deadlier on the streets. But no amount of tech could help him win when Jinx had Roxxy as her co-pilot and a car that could outrun a police interceptor.


    Her old habits back from when she''d been with SHIELD back in the day gave her an extra edge too.


    "Left turn!" Jinx barked, warning Roxxy, swerving hard as her car skidded around a tight corner, tires squealing. The neon-lit street blurred past them, and she narrowly avoided slamming into a food cart whose vendor barely had time to leap to safety. The smell of fried noodles lingered in the air as Jinx grinned, knowing full well that the streets of Night City would erupt with chaos after their little detour.


    People would probably die. But then that was a common occurrence anyway.


    She preferred this chaos to the orderly world outside. It felt more honest.


    Gunfire echoed behind them - pissed off locals taking potshots at the racers. One bullet ricocheted off the back of Jinx''s car, but the energy shields they''d rigged from a stolen Uberair taxi absorbed the impact, flickering briefly before holding steady. "Sucks to be them," Jinx muttered under her breath, fully aware of the havoc they were leaving in their wake.


    "Nothing like a little target practice," Roxxy said gleefully, ducking back inside the car just as another shot whizzed overhead.


    Night City thrived on chaos. And Jinx had made a living off that chaos, first by surviving brutal survival games where participants were thrown into deadly scenarios for sport. It was how she''d made her bread when she''d first arrived, as just another chick, albeit one with some skills that weren''t common.


    She''d gotten the Bunny mods for free by volunteering as the prey in one of their predator Vs prey challenges. Hunted down by 8 other contestants, surviving to ambush them all and stand the winner.


    Of course, after that, a Bunny girl only had one place to earn some scratch really. She wasn''t keen on being a hole for cash, so she''d signed up for one of the survival games, meeting Roxxy in it, the two hooking up instead of killing each other, before wasting the competition and taking home the large cash prize, and setting themselves up nicely.


    And now she was the owner of a mechanic garage that catered to racers, mercenaries, and misfits. Roxxy ran the attached bar and strip joint, where they spent most nights partying until dawn. Life here wasn''t perfect, but it was theirs - no rules, no restrictions, just freedom.


    Jinx could see the finish line up ahead, a glowing checkpoint graffitied onto the side of a human chop shop. Hah, Terry is going to owe me soooo fucking much!


    Terry''s car was shrinking in her rearview mirror, and victory was practically in her grasp. She hooted in triumph, already imagining the celebratory drinks and whatever else the night had in store.


    But her excitement was short-lived.


    Without warning, the car jolted violently, throwing both Jinx and Roxxy forward into the dashboard. The safety harnesses activated just in time, but Jinx still saw stars as her head hit the steering wheel. She groaned, rubbing her forehead as Roxxy let out a string of curses, her tails flicking irritably.


    "The fuck just happened?" Roxxy whined, her ears twitching as she looked around.


    Jinx gritted her teeth, slamming her hands on the dashboard. "We''re caught in a tractor beam." Good thing I paid for skull reinforcements for both of us last time we saw the doc.


    Above them, hovering like a predator, was a thin, metallic drone, its underside glowing with the telltale hum of a tractor beam locking them in place. The car''s tires spun helplessly against the ground, unable to break free. Jinx craned her neck to look up, her stomach sinking when she saw who was responsible.


    Hovering just above them, in her full android form, was Lian - the Overlady of Night City. One of her anyway, there were like a dozen known versions of the android. This version of Lian was completely purple, with long purple hair falling in ringlets, covering her naked bust, her metallic body gleaming under the moonlight and neon, with piercing red eyes that seemed to glow ominously down at them.


    "Oh, come on, miss overlord!" Roxxy groaned, flicking on the car''s external speakers. "We only killed, like, four people. Tops!"


    That was at like worst a ticket or something.


    Lian''s cold, robotic voice echoed through the air. "I normally let you have your fun, but one of the people you killed was on the list."


    Jinx winced. The list. The one rule of Night City: Hammer Industries personnel were off-limits for permanent deaths. Tourists could be scammed, robbed, have their organs trafficked, even humiliated or have their gender switched on a lark, but killing them dead dead, was strictly forbidden. Breaking that rule came with consequences.


    "Ugh, not my fault if a tourist didn''t get out of the way," Jinx grumbled, knowing it was pointless. Lian had full control over the city.


    At least she usually let them do whatever, unlike those under Hammer''s control.


    "4.5 million fine," Lian said matter-of-factly, as if it were pocket change.


    From behind, she heard Terry laughing hysterically as he drove past them, his victory horn blaring. Jinx clenched her fists, fury boiling inside her. She wasn''t exactly broke, but 4.5 million would cripple her business.


    Or have her selling her cute bunny ass to make up the difference. Or a kidney or two, with Panacea, the organ trade was more for delicacies, then for medical need anymore anyway.


    She''d even tried some herself. Wasn''t half bad.


    "That''s totally unreasonable!" Jinx protested.


    Lian remained unfazed. "Your other option is to volunteer for the Night City Classic, your fine would be forgiven."


    The words hung in the air like a death sentence. Roxxy blushed, glancing sideways at Jinx. "It wouldn''t be that bad, right?"


    Jinx groaned, tugging on her bunny ears. The Night City Classic was a globally broadcast competition that took place monthly, despite the illegality of Night City.


    It was a mix of gladiatorial combat and ridiculous, often lewd challenges. Mud wrestling was a fan favorite. The competitors? Scantily clad women who rarely stayed that way for long. It was sex, violence and death all combined together with ridiculous challenges.


    "This is cruel and unusual punishment," Jinx muttered. "And those two are competing again this time!"


    Luckily they weren''t always there, but in the last competition they''d slaughtered their way through. Most competitions didn''t even have that many deaths in the Classic otherwise. Only reason she''d even think of entering to avoid the fine.


    "Hela and her pet are honorary contestants only, and do not have a license to kill in this competition." Lian clarified.


    The Queen of Death Hela had a reputation in this city. Sure, people killed each other all the time. The survival games were made for it.


    No one quite enjoyed it the way Hela did.


    All of Night City breathed easier whenever she went raiding.


    "Sadists more like it," Jinx grumbled, knowing it would be painful, but survivable if that woman and her cyborg pet wasn''t allowed to kill.


    Jinx didn''t mean to brag, but she''d survived the survival games, these little challenges wouldn''t kill her or Roxxy.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    She knew she was going to accept. What was some humiliation compared to a 4.5 million fine? The Classic might be embarrassing once Hela started crushing them, but at least it didn''t involve death this time.


    "Fine," Jinx finally said, her voice dripping with defeat. The tractor beam released their car, and it thudded back onto the street.


    "Oooh, we get to mud wrestle again?" Roxxy said, her excitement returning.


    "Just keep your medical implant on," Jinx warned. "That Hela bitch always breaks her competitors, even if she won''t kill us this time."


    Roxxy smirked, her tails flicking playfully. "You love me broken."


    Jinx rolled her eyes, revving the engine as they sped off into the neon-lit chaos of Night City, mostly to avoid that smug bastard Terry. Life was never dull here, and despite the setbacks, she wouldn''t trade it for anything.


    In the rest of the world, people lived dull lives, satisfied with their lot under Hammer Industries'' rule. They worked, probably had boring missionary vanilla sex, and drank the corporate Kool-Aid.


    But in Night City? Here, life was a gamble, life was free. And Jinx wouldn''t have it any other way.


    <hr>


    February 1st, 2012, Terra Luna.


    Steve Rogers stood at the edge of the construction zone, his hands resting on his hips as he surveyed the dusty expanse before him. The low hum of machinery echoed across the lunar surface, a constant backdrop to the bustling worksite.


    Large mechanical cranes moved with precise, calculated motions, hoisting massive panels of reinforced titanium alloy into place. Men and women in bright orange work suits moved between construction rigs and supply stations, coordinating their tasks with the practiced efficiency of a well-oiled machine.


    Above him, the view of Terra Prime hung like a silent observer, its familiar blue and green surface distant, almost alien now. He rarely looked at it these days, finding it difficult to reconcile the image of his home with what it had become. Less than two years ago, the United States of America had been a beacon of democracy, at least in theory. Now, it was just another province in the growing Hammer Federation cum Empire.


    Steve let out a long breath, his chest rising and falling slowly as he tried to shake off the weight of his thoughts. One people under Hammer. The words echoed in his mind like a funeral bell, a reminder of how quickly the world had changed.


    Just days ago, the U.S. government had officially dissolved its national borders, government, constitution and cultural identity, signing its allegiance to the Federation with the same flourish of pen strokes that had once written the country''s founding documents.


    He shook his head, disbelief still clinging to him like a stubborn shadow. The United States of America. Gone. Not conquered by war, not overthrown by revolution, but signed away willingly.


    Only nineteen other nations had followed so far in dissolving, but more were expected to join soon. Politicians who had once been unable to agree on anything now seemed eager to fall in line, their debates drowned out by the promise of prosperity, stability, and the undeniable power that Hammer offered.


    Less than two years, Steve thought, shaking his head. And the Federation''s already turning into an empire.


    He couldn''t bring himself to call it anything else. Justin Hammer''s vision of unity had started as a promise of collaboration, a way to bridge the gaps between nations and uplift the world together. But now? Now, it felt like the Federation was swallowing the world whole, one country at a time. The promise had always been a lie, one the world swallowed without protest.


    And Steve had refused to be a part of it.


    Despite Bucky''s efforts to convince him otherwise - despite the long nights of heated debates, the pleas to join the new Federation military or even one of the emerging superhero teams - Steve had made his choice. He couldn''t fight for something he didn''t believe in. Not again. Not after everything that had happened.


    So he''d retired. On the spot. No more hero business. The world didn''t want him. And he had started to believe it didn''t deserve to be saved.


    So, instead, he''d taken a job with a construction company, working to help transform the Moon - now Terra Luna - into a livable space. It wasn''t glamorous, and it wasn''t what people expected from Captain America, but it was honest work. He liked the feel of the tools in his hands, the strain of his muscles as he lifted and carried, the satisfaction of seeing something tangible take shape because of his effort.


    Even if the company he worked for was, like everything else these days, just another subsidiary of Hammer Industries.


    He of course kept in touch with Bucky. But since his best friend continued to work for Hammer, it was over calls, not personal visits.


    Terra Luna had changed dramatically in the last two years. What had once been a barren, lifeless rock had become a hub of human activity, its surface scarred by massive construction sites and transport hubs.


    The use of Pym Particles had revolutionized the process, allowing materials to be shrunk down to a fraction of their size for easy transport and then expanded back to their full dimensions on-site. What would have taken decades under normal circumstances had been accomplished in a matter of months.


    Most of the settlements so far had been built underground, where the natural insulation of Terra Luna''s crust provided protection against the harsh environment. Vast networks of tunnels and chambers stretched beneath the surface, housing everything from living quarters and research labs to hydroponic farms and power stations. The air was recycled through advanced filtration systems, the water supply carefully monitored and replenished through ice mining operations at Terra Luna''s poles, as well as delivered through portals from Terra Prime.


    But it wasn''t all underground. A few surface cities had begun to take shape, each one enclosed within massive protective domes capable of maintaining the proper atmospheric conditions for human life. Inside, artificial sunlight bathed the streets in a warm glow, and carefully controlled climates allowed for the growth of trees, gardens, and even small parks.


    Steve lived in one of those domes, a modest apartment tucked away in a residential sector near the city''s edge. It wasn''t much, but it was enough. His days were spent working on construction sites, and his evenings were usually quiet - sometimes spent reading, sometimes spent walking through the city''s small parks to clear his mind.


    And sometimes, he spent his evenings with Peggy.


    He smiled faintly at the thought, a wave of warmth washing over him. Peggy Carter. The woman he''d loved and lost, only to find her again under the most unexpected circumstances. She was older now, her once-youthful face marked by lines of experience and wisdom, but there was still a spark of vitality in her that reminded him of the woman she''d been during the war.


    Hammers drugs had saved her, given her health and vigor back, even if it couldn''t turn back the clock.


    Their relationship had changed, of course. Too much time had passed, and they were both different people now. But they''d found a new kind of connection, one built on mutual respect and shared memories. It wasn''t romantic - not anymore - but it was comforting, like having an older sister who understood him in a way few others could.


    He glanced down at the tablet in his hand, having refused a mental implant, its screen displaying the day''s work orders and progress reports. The construction of a new residential block was ahead of schedule. With any luck, they''d be able to move the first group of settlers in within the next few months.


    A shadow passed over him, and he looked up to see one of his coworkers, a burly man named Dale, waving him over.


    "Break time, Rogers!" Dale called out, grinning. "You''ve been working like a damn machine all morning. Come grab a coffee before you wear yourself out."


    Steve chuckled softly and nodded, setting the tablet aside. He made his way to the break area, a small makeshift lounge set up near the construction site. A few workers were already there, sipping coffee and sharing stories about their latest projects.


    It was¡­ Nice¡­ To be just one of the guys. No one here cared about who he''d been.


    Even if they called him an old man for refusing any mental implants, cybernetics, or the use of the company simulation pod.


    As he settled into a chair and accepted a cup of coffee from Dale, his mind drifted back to the news he''d seen that morning. Another country had signed on to dissolve its own very existence, becoming provinces guided by a governor selected by Justin Hammer, rather than an elected parliament. The headlines had been celebratory, hailing the move as a step toward global unity and prosperity.


    A dissolution of waste and corruption, removing corruptive influences from the decision making process.


    People cheered as every spot of democracy was scrubbed off with vigor.


    But Steve couldn''t help but feel uneasy. Unity was a noble goal, in a way. But this¡­ This felt different. It wasn''t unity born of shared ideals or common purpose. It was unity born of necessity, of nations bending to the will of a single man who held all the power.


    He took a sip of his coffee, the bitterness grounding him. Maybe he was being too cynical. Maybe the Federation really would bring about the peace and progress it promised. But deep down, he couldn''t shake the feeling that it wasn''t right.


    Yet¡­ It wasn''t his problem anymore.


    "Everything okay, Rogers?" Dale asked, raising an eyebrow.


    Steve managed a small smile. "Yeah. Just thinking."


    Dale chuckled. "You think too much, man. Sometimes you just gotta go with the flow."


    Steve nodded absently, his gaze drifting to the horizon where the domed city met the lunar surface. For now, he''d keep working, keep building. It was the only thing he could do.


    He''d always been a man of action. He could do more here on Terra Luna than fighting the impossible yet again.


    People wanted this change, who was he to decide it was wrong?


    <hr>


    February 1st, 2012, Cairo.


    Ororo Munroe''s home in Cairo was a blend of serenity and simple elegance. Soft sunlight filtered through tall windows framed by sheer white curtains, as the sound of a gentle breeze rustling the palm trees outside mingled with the quiet hum of city life beyond the gated villa.


    In the nursery, the gentle cooing of her twins filled the air. Ororo sat cross-legged on a plush rug, her daughter cradled in her arms while her son lay giggling beside her, clutching one of her fingers with surprising strength. Both babies had inherited their father''s piercing eyes, but their hair was a curious mix - soft curls of dark brown streaked with traces of white.


    Her daughter, Amara, was quieter, content to observe her surroundings with wide eyes that sparkled like sunlight on water. Her brother, Idris, however, was a ball of restless energy, constantly babbling and kicking as if he were already ready to take on the world like his father.


    "You two are growing too fast," Ororo murmured softly, her voice warm with affection. Amara gurgled in response, her tiny hand reaching up to touch Ororo''s cheek.


    Ororo smiled and leaned down to press a kiss against her daughter''s forehead, savoring the scent of baby powder and innocence. These moments were precious, stolen fragments of time before duty called her away once more. She wanted to imprint every detail into her memory - the softness of their skin, the way they smelled like warmth and purity, the way Idris would always wiggle his fingers until she gave him something to grab.


    A soft knock at the door signaled the arrival of the nanny, a kindly older woman with gentle hands and a calming presence. Behind her, three sentinels stood like silent guardians. Their glowing eyes scanning the room as they automatically recalibrated to monitor the environment for any threats.


    These sentinels weren''t the destructive machines they once were. Now, they were instruments of protection, bodyguards, governed by Nail''s direct oversight. Ororo had personally overseen their programming, ensuring that nothing and no one would harm her children.


    She rose gracefully, passing Amara into the nanny''s waiting arms while giving Idris one last tickle under his chin, drawing a giggle from the baby. "Be good for Mama," She whispered.


    As she stepped back, her gaze lingered on them for a moment longer, her heart tugging as it always did when she left them. But there was no room for hesitation. She had made her choice long ago - to ensure that they grew up in a world where metahumans weren''t feared, where they could live freely and safely.


    Turning away, Ororo moved down the marble-floored hallway toward her bedroom, her footsteps light but purposeful. Inside, her uniform waited for her, neatly pressed and laid out on the bed. It was a testament to the changes she had undergone over the years. Once, she had been a goddess worshipped by villagers in Kenya, a teacher and a mutant hero leader in Xavier''s mansion. Now, she was a general in the Hammer Federation Military, wearing its emblem proudly on her chest.


    She stripped off her casual clothes, her movements practiced and efficient. Sliding into the uniform felt like donning armor, both physical and symbolic. The dark fabric hugged her form perfectly, tailored for both functionality and elegance. Silver rank insignia gleamed on her shoulders, denoting her position as the highest-ranking officer in the Federation''s metahuman armed forces.


    Ororo caught her reflection in the mirror. Her hair, still white as snow, cascaded down her back in soft waves. Her eyes, once filled with uncertainty, now held a steely resolve. She adjusted the cuffs of her sleeves and squared her shoulders.


    Content. That was the word that often came to mind when she thought about her life now. There were compromises, yes - letting metahuman criminals be sent to Helen Cho''s labs for experimentation was one of them. But under Justin''s leadership, metahumans were protected. They had equal rights by law, and discrimination was practically nonexistent. She had seen the progress firsthand - metahuman children attending schools without fear, families living openly without fear of persecution.


    Nowadays, a metahuman could openly use powers in the street and get nothing but a glance.


    The sacrifices she had made, practically selling herself, the moral lines she had blurred - they were worth it. She could live with the weight of her decisions if it meant her people could thrive for generations to come.


    Ororo moved to the corner of the room, where a round personal teleporter awaited her. The device, a gift from Justin himself, hummed softly as she keyed in her destination. With a flash of light and a faint crackle of energy, she vanished from the room.


    When she reappeared, the crisp air of Germany greeted her, with the training facility stretching out before her. One of four dedicated to metahuman forces, this particular facility was home to the shock troops - powerful mutants whose abilities made them ideal for rapid assaults and heavy combat.


    The compound was a sprawling complex of reinforced structures, obstacle courses, and simulation chambers. Soldiers in uniform moved with precision, their training exercises echoing across the open courtyards. In the distance, she could see a group practicing their flight maneuvers, streaking across the sky like comets.


    Ororo made her way toward the central building, where a large hall had been prepared for her address. As she entered, the murmur of conversation faded, and hundreds of metahumans snapped to attention, their uniforms a sea of dark fabric accented with the silver insignias of their respective ranks.


    She ascended the podium, her gaze sweeping across the crowd. These were her soldiers, her people. Each of them had a story, a struggle that had brought them here. Some had been oppressed, hunted, or forced to hide their powers. Now, they stood united, a formidable force that could rival any army on Earth - or beyond.


    Perhaps some would die for them all, if the rumblings of displeasure from Asgard, or the reprimands from Xandar bore any fruit. But to her, it would be her honor, and she knew they all felt the same.


    Their people were safe, happy, part of the whole. They could do nothing but their best to protect that, in any way they could.


    Ororo took a deep breath before speaking, her voice steady and clear. "You''ve trained hard. You''ve sacrificed. And you''ve grown stronger together." Her words resonated through the hall, carried by the weight of her conviction. "Today, we put that strength to the test. The simulation you are about to face is designed to challenge every skill you''ve honed. It''s not just about winning - it''s about surviving to continue the fight, to win again and again. About showing the universe that we are not to be underestimated."


    She paused, letting her words sink in. "The scenario we''ve chosen is a mock battle against Asgard. This is not an admission of hostility. But we must be prepared for any betrayal, for any ally to become an enemy. Asgardians are powerful, but so are we. And today, you will prove that."


    A ripple of excitement and determination passed through the crowd.


    "You are the vanguard of the metahuman race," Ororo continued, her tone softening slightly. "And with that comes responsibility. You do not fight for glory or conquest. You fight to protect those who cannot protect themselves. You fight to ensure that no child, metahuman or otherwise, grows up in fear."


    She straightened, her eyes blazing with pride. "Now, take what you''ve learned and make it count. Dismissed!"


    The hall erupted with the synchronized sound of thousands of boots striking the floor as the soldiers saluted and began filing out, ready to face the challenge ahead. Ororo watched them go, a sense of satisfaction settling over her.


    They were ready.


    <hr>


    February 1st, 2012, undisclosed location, deep underground.


    In the dim underground room, shadows stretched long and deep, the flickering glow of a single oil lamp giving light. The air smelled of damp earth and aged leather, suffused with the faint scent of cigar smoke lingering on Wilson Fisk''s tailored suit. A room like this, devoid of electronics, was an oddity in the modern world - deliberate and calculated. Here, secrets could be spoken without digital ears.


    Selene Gallio sat languidly at the end of the table, one arm draped across the back of her chair, her body encased in a sleek black dress that clung to her like a second skin. Her gaze swept lazily over the room, her ruby lips curling into a faint smirk as if the gathering was a waste of her precious time. Her patience was already wearing thin.


    "Why am I here?" She asked, her voice a melodic hum with an undercurrent of menace. She tapped her fingers against the table, each nail painted a dark crimson. "I could be anywhere else, doing something far more entertaining. What possible reason do you have to bring me here with... Them?"


    She gestured with mild disdain toward the others seated around the table.


    Wilson Fisk, the Kingpin, sat at the head, his large hands folded neatly before him on the polished oak surface. His hulking frame seemed to absorb the dim light, casting an imposing silhouette against the backdrop of shadows. His expression was calm, measured, the look of a man who was in control.


    "I assure you, Miss Gallio," Fisk said, his tone smooth and deliberate, "That your presence here is not without purpose. The stakes are too high to exclude someone of your... Particular talents."


    Selene arched a brow, her smirk fading into a faint frown. "Get on with it, then, you''re beginning to bore me."


    Tiberius Stone, a man that had once worn the smugness of the world''s elite, now looked like a hollow shell of his former self. His fingers tapped incessantly against the table, betraying his nerves. "This should have been held in Night City," He muttered under his breath, his eyes darting toward the exit. "We''re not safe this close to his city."


    Fisk turned his gaze toward Tiberius, his expression hardening with disdain. "Night City," Fisk said, "Is a playground owned by Hammer no matter what is claimed. It''s no haven of freedom - it''s a trap, one where every crime is seen, recorded, and neatly filed away for future use. A gathering point for all rebels and malcontents. You''d do well to remember that."


    Tiberius flushed but said nothing, his fingers continuing their restless tapping.


    The various CEOs that had been invited looked uncomfortable. Still rich, even as their companies died around them. Oil tycoons, tech geniuses, even the ridiculed former owner of an electrical car manufacturer. They were all there to hear what Fisk had to say about reinventing their fate.


    "I still haven''t heard anything worth my attention," Selene said, her voice cutting through the tension like a knife. "We''re all aware that Hammer took the world by storm and left you all scrambling like ants beneath his boot. Why should I care about your little cabal of misfortune?"


    After all, her personal delights had not been affected, and she was not afraid of the man either way, no matter that he was a god now, she had more than a thousand years on him.


    Fisk cleared his throat, the deep rumble of it echoing through the room. "Because we''ve all lost something. Our wealth. Our influence. Everything we built has been taken or diminished under Hammer''s rule." He leaned forward slightly, his voice lowering. "But the game isn''t over. The prize we seek is far greater than anything we''ve lost."


    Selene tilted her head, her eyes narrowing. "And what prize would that be?" She said in a voice that made it clear she was simply humoring him.


    Fisk didn''t answer immediately. He let the question hang in the air, a baited hook waiting for someone to bite. One of the former CEOs, a man with thinning hair and the scent of expensive cologne clinging to him, leaned forward.


    "If you didn''t think there was a chance to regain it all," the CEO said, "You wouldn''t have gathered us here."


    "Correct," Fisk said, a thin smile creeping across his face. "I wouldn''t be wasting my time otherwise. But this isn''t about reclaiming what we had. This is about something bigger. The new world order that Hammer has built offers opportunities for us all, but only to those willing to seize them."


    Tiberius scoffed, bitterness coloring his tone. "Seize them? My media empire is a shadow of what it was. I own it still, I suppose, but Hammer controls the message. He decides what the public sees, what they believe. What am I supposed to seize when I''m already on a leash?"


    Fisk gave him a cold, assessing look. "Your people still have access. Reporters, technicians - they can go places and see things the rest of us can''t. You may be leashed, but you haven''t been caged."


    Tiberius frowned, his mind visibly working through the possibilities. "I could... I could leverage that," He murmured, more to himself than to the room. "There are still avenues of influence."


    Selene tapped her nails on the table again, her patience thinning. "And me? What do I get out of this? I have no interest in reclaiming lost fortunes, money is a pithy thing I hardly have to work for."


    Fisk''s smile widened, the gleam of predatory satisfaction flickering in his eyes. "You''re not here for money, Miss Gallio. My benefactor anticipated your reluctance and offered something far more valuable - tomes from something they called the Dark Dimension. Knowledge that even you haven''t acquired."


    Selene stilled, her fingers ceasing their rhythmic tapping. For the first time since the meeting began, genuine interest flickered across her face. "The Dark Dimension, you say?" She murmured, her eyes narrowing. "And what would your benefactor want in return?"


    "Your cooperation," Fisk replied. "And perhaps a little chaos in the right places. Nothing you aren''t already skilled at."


    Selene considered this for a moment, her gaze drifting to the shadows that clung to the corners of the room. The offer was tempting, and the prospect of gaining knowledge from the Dark Dimension was enough to pique her curiosity. "Very well," She said slowly. "But if this turns out to be a waste of my time, you''ll regret it."


    "Understood," Fisk said, inclining his head slightly.


    The CEO leaned in again, his voice barely above a whisper. "Tell us more, Fisk. What''s the plan?"


    Fisk''s smile didn''t waver, but the room seemed to hold its breath as he simply studied them all, "It''s best that you do not all know, each of you will receive the particulars for your own parts from my servant."


    Out of the darkness a man with a pure white face and wearing an impeccable suit stepped forward, before taking on the appearance of Fisk, his face and body seamlessly transforming.


    "The Chameleon will easily be able to give you your instructions without anyone being aware something unusual is happening."


    Tiberius licked his lips nervously, his gaze shifting between Fisk and the Chameleon behind him. "This benefactor of yours... Who are they, really?"


    Fisk''s smile sharpened. "Someone with the resources and vision to succeed where others have failed. With their backing, Hammer can be toppled. But we must be smart. Subtle. And we must move quickly when the time comes. This world, without Hammer, will be a smorgasbord for us all."


    "Yes, but who is it?" Tiberius pressed.


    Before Fisk could answer, a figure stepped forward from the shadows behind him again, their presence marked only by the gleam of teeth catching the faint light. The room fell silent, the tension thickening like a fog as the representative laid a hand on Fisk''s shoulder.


    "My master," The representative said, their voice smooth and unsettling, "Will reward you all."


    "Yet¡­ If you are reticent. I can perhaps convince you of the cause¡­"


    <hr>


    February 1st, 2012, Savage Lands.


    Phil Coulson stood on the observation deck of the administrative tower, hands clasped behind his back as he gazed out over the expanse of the Savage Lands. Or rather, what used to be the Savage Lands and was now the Elysium Fields. What had once been a prehistoric paradise, filled with untamed jungles and creatures from another era, had been reduced to a methodical, industrialized engine of progress.


    Although he knew some of the dinosaurs had been removed to an island in the Caribbean, where a theme park named Jurassic Park was created for all to enjoy and was currently beating out Disneyland for visitors by a major margin.


    Coulson thought Hammer had a twisted sense of humor, as he dropped the thought from his mind and focused on his domain.


    A quarter of the land was now dedicated to a massive facility that churned out adamantium, its celestial forge burning day and night, fueled by a process he barely understood and had no clearance to question. Industrial teleporters had been installed at key points, ensuring that every ounce of precious metal was immediately beamed up to the orbital space docks for the Hammer war machine.


    The rest of the land, once filled with towering trees and prowling dinosaurs, had been transformed into farmland. Fields stretched endlessly, their precise rows of crops uniform and unbroken, forming a perfect grid visible even from his high vantage point. Produce, grain - both native and alien - were grown and harvested in cycles faster than nature had ever intended. The genetic modifications and advanced nutrient infusions had reduced the growth time to a mere thirty-two hours. A field could be planted in the morning and be fully harvested by the next sunrise.


    All of it was fed by a slurry - a biofuel concoction pioneered by Helen Cho. The leftover biomass from failed genetic experiments, executed criminals, and rebels that had been deemed irredeemable. Nothing went to waste. Not even people.


    He wondered how many of his friends had fed the soil¡­


    Governor of Elysium Fields¡­ It beat prison, he supposed¡­ That''s where he''d been before this, ever since Fury abandoned him.


    Coulson tugged at the collar around his neck, a habit he had never managed to shake, despite knowing it was futile. The smooth metal band, cold against his skin, carried the ever-present threat of incineration should he step out of line.


    He had tested the limits once - just once - allowing his thoughts to drift too far toward rebellion. The implant embedded in his brain had responded instantly, a searing bolt of pain that had sent him to his knees. He hadn''t made that mistake to that extent again, the searing pain from the collar as it inched closer to incineration convincing him it worked just as portended.


    For all the grandeur of his title - Governor of the Elysium Fields - he knew exactly what he was. A slave. A glorified monitor for a system that ran itself, a figurehead whose only real purpose was to sign reports and occasionally answer calls from higher-ups who already knew the answers.


    Except for the odd tech team transporting down for maintenance, he was the only other human being in the entire continent hidden under Antarctica.


    Its natives had long ago become fodder for the earth, thankfully before Coulson''s time, saving him the sight.


    And yet, was it so bad? This job?


    Many of his former SHIELD colleagues had met far worse fates. Some had been hunted down and executed for their perceived crimes. Others had vanished into Hammer''s deep black projects, never to be heard from again. Some, like Fury, had been cast out into the void, left to scheme in the shadows like relics of a past that no longer had a place in this world.


    By comparison, Coulson had been¡­ Lucky.


    He had a stable life. He had books, crosswords, even the occasional phone call from people who still tolerated him. That was more than most had gotten.


    He exhaled slowly, watching as the mechanical harvesters moved in perfect unison across the fields below. Drones hovered overhead, scanning for inefficiencies, ensuring that not a single second was wasted. Everything was optimized. Efficient. Perfect.


    World hunger was vanishing.


    That was undeniable.


    With an entire continent dedicated to food production, coupled with Hammer''s teleportation network, so limited above, but so total down here¡­ Food was now abundant and practically free in the places that had once known nothing but famine. Nations that had once struggled to feed their people now had surplus stockpiles.


    It was impossible to argue with the results.


    And yet, results did not equate to freedom.


    Coulson turned away from the window, rubbing his temples as a faint warning pulse from his implant reminded him not to dwell too long on such thoughts. He sat down at his desk, flipping open a crossword book. A simple distraction, but a necessary one.


    Across from him, the small terminal flickered, displaying a news feed. The world was changing, faster than he could fully comprehend. The military was stronger than ever, filled with soldiers enhanced beyond normal human limits, their minds sharpened by VR training that compressed years of experience into months.


    Their recruitment was all encompassing. Support units, infantry, combat engineers. Everything was hiring, and there was room for more everywhere.


    Unemployment was nearly nonexistent because of this. Not because every job had been filled, there were always more. Even with the improvements across the world killing entire sectors of work, there were other new ones clamoring for workers.


    Those who did not work had become pariahs. Deviants. Seen as mentally ill by the populace.


    The system was self-correcting.


    It had been weeks since he had seen a single news article about a civilian stepping out of line outside the few countries still raising a fuss. The people had adapted. They had embraced the new order with open arms, not only because they had been forced to, but because it worked.


    They were fed. They were safe. They had purpose.


    That was all most people had ever really wanted.


    And yet, for those like Coulson - those who remembered what the world had been like before with freedom of choice - there was a hollow feeling that never quite went away.


    He winced as another zap from his implant jolted through his skull, cutting off his thoughts before they could spiral further.


    He sighed, flipping the page in his crossword book.


    One across: "A person who betrays their principles."


    He stared at the blank squares for a long moment before reluctantly writing in the answer.


    Sellout.


    His terminal beeped, drawing his attention away. A new update had come through.


    "Night City Expansion Approved by its Overlady. Projected Population Growth: 4.3 Million Over the Next Six Months."


    He huffed a quiet laugh, shaking his head.


    Of course, it had.


    If there was one place left in the world where people could still pretend they were free, it was Night City. What a delicious illusion it was.


    Hammer had really outdone himself with that. It probably saved him billions in computing costs to have every malcontent gather in one location for him. For all their ''freedom'' likely tracked just as much as Coulson was, their collar just invisible.


    He wondered, not for the first time, if he would have ended up there had things gone differently. If he had managed to slip away before SHIELD collapsed, before he had been captured, before the choice had been made for him.


    He reached for his pen, only for another sharp jolt of pain to ripple through his skull, forcing him to suck in a breath.


    His implant didn''t like that line of thinking.


    He took the hint.


    Closing the crossword book, he leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling, counting the seconds until the next report came in.


    It was going to be a long day.


    At least here, he could still get phone calls.


    Even if Natasha and Clint were still mad at him.


    They still called.


    So it was¡­ Something.


    <hr>


    February 1st, 2012, under the sea.


    The HammerTech Leviathan drifted silently through the deep, its reinforced hull slicing through the dark waters of the Atlantic trench. Beams of artificial light cut through the void, illuminating vast underwater ridges, jagged volcanic formations, and expansive flat plains where the ocean floor stretched for miles in eerie silence.


    Inside the submersible, the command deck was alive with the quiet hum of conversation, holographic displays flickering with real-time data feeds. The crew of five worked methodically, their suits adorned with the Hammer Industries insignia as they monitored geological scans and deep-sea topography for viable locations.


    "Depth at four thousand meters and holding steady," Captain Elise Rourke announced, her hands deftly adjusting the controls. She was composed, professional, and unshaken by the crushing pressure that surrounded them on all sides. "Stabilizers are green. Scanners show no seismic instability in this region."


    "Temperature shifts are negligible," Confirmed Darius Kent, their lead engineer, his cybernetic fingers tapping along a glowing console. "We''re looking at some decent geothermal activity, but nothing excessive. Just enough to make energy extraction viable without the risk of volcanic eruptions."


    Mateo Alvarez, their oceanic geologist, let out a low whistle as he examined the holographic map projected before him. "Flat sedimentary plains, stable seafloor, low tectonic activity... This area is prime real estate for an underwater colony. If we can reinforce the structures properly, we could have entire cities down here within a decade."


    "A decade?" Joanna Ellis, their marine biologist, smirked. "With Hammer Industries pouring resources into this, I bet we see the first settlement within five years. Maybe less if the birth boom projections hold."


    With Hammer Industries incentivizing massive population growth, humanity was on the verge of an unprecedented expansion, hence their mission to explore the ocean, one of many.


    They were hardly the only ones, just the only ones for this particular quadrant.


    "That''s what gets me," Mateo mused. "The way people are churning out kids now¡­ It''s insane. My sister has five and says she''s only halfway to her target. My cousin''s wife just had fucking quadruplets and she''s already pregnant again. Ten kids is basically the new upper middle class."


    "Not just middle class," Joanna corrected, swiping through a set of data sheets. "If you hit ten or more, you''re making executive-level money. Birth subsidies, housing allotments, education credits, and priority healthcare. If you can pop ''em out, you''re basically set for life."


    Darius let out a low chuckle. "Hell, with those incentives, we''ll hit a population of twenty billion before you know it."


    "Which is why we''re here," Elise said, bringing them back on track. "Lunar colonies can only support so many people. Space colonization is not the only answer, and planetary terraforming is a long-term project. But Terra Prime''s oceans? We have the tech to start building now. Once the infrastructure is in place, entire cities can be submerged beneath the waves."


    Mateo ran a hand through his dark hair, eyes narrowing as he zoomed in on a section of the sonar map. "And we''ve got space for them. Hammer Industries long-term projection models show that we could house at least five billion people under the ocean comfortably if we plan the cities right."


    Darius nodded. "Pressure-resistant domes, geothermal reactors for energy, oxygen processing from the ocean itself, and the food supply handled with algae farms and aquaponic systems for what we don''t simply teleport in. The deeper zones can be used for industrial sites, research labs, and power stations. Residential zones will probably be closer to the surface."


    "And since we now control all Talokanian blueprints," Joanna added, "We already have a functioning model to work with. Their city was proof that long-term deep-sea habitation is possible, even if they didn''t solve it properly, cheating with alien DNA. They thrived without even using half the tech we have access to though, so we should be able to pull it off."


    Elise shifted the Leviathan slightly, maneuvering it over a vast undersea plateau. The terrain was smooth, the rock beneath solid - ideal for a future settlement. The HUD display flickered as scans came in.


    "This area''s a winner," She said, her voice thoughtful. "Flat ground, minimal fault activity, and plenty of thermal vents nearby to power a colony. Mark this for priority assessment."


    Mateo tagged the location, adding it to their ever-growing list of potential sites. "That''s the third promising zone today. We''re on a roll."


    Joanna leaned back in her chair, exhaling. "It''s wild to think about. A few years ago, no one would have believed we''d be talking about cities under the ocean. Now? It''s inevitable."


    Darius grinned. "Hammer Industries gonna make it happen. And in a century, people will look at land-based cities the same way we look at medieval villages - quaint, outdated, and boring."


    Elise gave a small smile, keeping her eyes on the controls. "Welcome to the future."


    <hr>