A Gamer's rise in Marvel
Disclaimer: I don't own marvel or any other work of fiction.
Chapter 21 : Beginnings of a Demon Hunter!
AIM Labs, Queens
"I'm Hooome!" I yell out as I burst from the doors of my office...Only to see no one in the hallway. Still wanting to scare someone I make my way over to Maya's Office to repeat the prank...Only to find it empty.
'Its in the middle of her work hours, where the hell is she?' I think as I inspect her Office. On the table is a warm cup of coffee and a half eaten cookie next to it. It's as if she simply disappeared! I now back out of the office and activate my Mystic eyes to check the rest of the floor. To my shock, I see the same thing once again, all rooms empty and no one here.
"Mercy! Maya! Fucking anyone!" I scream out for anyone who may be there.
I'm aware we didn't have many employees in the branch, but we've been vetting a lot of them and have put at least twenty to work here with Sterns and Maya. Not to mention that Hamilton started working here as well, which caused another 6 members of AIM to be transferred.
I now grow quite worried and look down at my left hand. Ever since my fight with Anastasia, the command seals I used have been slowly recovering. I already regained one while the last one seems half done.
But even so, if I use it now to summon her, all of my scheming will be thrown out the window. I cant risk that just because of an unknown threat.
I begin using my eyes and continue inspecting the floor. After making sure it was abandoned I started looking through the lower levels as well. A small chirp alerts me and I turn around only to see little Fou. I kneel in front of him and start scratching his neck:" Hey little guy, you know where everyone is?" He nods his head while shoving his paws towards the ground. I activate my eyes once again.
While the upper floors were the same, the basement showed something else. Its as if a bunch of people were gathered in a crowd and looking at the same thing. I cant quite make it out as it seems to be radiating some strange form of energy...
'If some Demon Fucker is using my people to make a cult then I'm seriously going to be pissed.'
I rush over to the elevator and wait for it to arrive. Fou quickly jumps onto my Shoulder.
'It could be a sacrifice as well, brainwashing them all to kill themselves'
The elevator finally arrives and I step in. I press the button for the basement and wait for the doors to close. The little one is busy snuggling up to my face as I continue thinking.
'In all likelihood, its a trap meant for me...But I've been careful, any big enemies don't know me or cant attack me like this. Angra would need a servant and I doubt there are any in New York. Maybe a wizard then? Some goons from oversees want to recruit me? Or maybe arrest me? It cant be Demons right? I haven't really killed that many so far and I do think Graves kept his word in that regard. Keeping my demon killing secret that is '
The Elevator pings as its doors finally open. I summon my MG42 and ready it to fire. I slowly move through the corridor and enter the lab where they were all located. Upon opening the doors, I'm greeted by an unusual sight.
The scientists, rather than being still and unmoving are gawking in amazement at the center of the Lab. Most of them have ditched their lab clothes and have oil stains and dirt on their clothing. Peeking to the front I also see both Maya and Sterns standing in front of it. Maya holds her hand over her mouth in amazement while Sterns is cackling like a madman. Next to them, I see the Model of the Stark Expo I had bought from Stark Industries.
Looking at the center of the room and specifically the device built throughout the lab, do I finally realize what this is. I quickly get rid of the LMG as I inspect the device. Its a large pipe-like construction running throughout the lab and forming a large circle and on a stand to the middle of it, is now a blue glowing metal.
'I didn't even see the Model and Sterns already built the particle accelerator and got it to work...Mad Bastard, I wanted to do that... It does save me time though.' I think as I head out of the room and into a Portal.
A few seconds pass until I return in my business suit while also pushing a trolley in front of me. On it is a large number of champagne glasses I just stole from a restaurant in Moscow. With it I enter the room and clap at the experiment.
The scientists, technicians, Engineers as well as Maya and Sterns now all look at me. I hold up a glass as I begin speaking to the room:" Ladies and Gentlemen, I hope you all realize the significance of what was achieved here today. You all helped in the Creation of a New Element! And not just any at that, but one that will revolutionize the Energy Industry for all of time. I am aware that AIM is quite young as an organization but I hope you take this event to heart and realize that so much more is to come. Now then Take a break and celebrate this great success!" I yell out.
Within seconds those attending begin cheering and hugging each other for this great Event. Most of the ones here were part of the original Think tank, so seeing a success like this will have their moral skyrocket.
I pass by most of them before reaching both Maya and Sterns and place a glass within their hands. They stare at me skeptically before Sterns asks:"Do we have to add precognition to your growing list of abilities? Because I am certain you shouldn't know a thing about this Project"
I simply smirk as I say:"You think I would buy a Miniature Model for 50,000$ without knowing what it was?"
His eyes widen before he gives of a chuckle:" I guess that makes sense. I guess I don't have to explain how this would revolutionize Arc Reactor Technology?"
Is simply continue giving my smirk:" Of course not, the Model was made by Howard Stark after all."
This surprises them quite a bit. But as I don't want to give any exposition right now, I ask:" I need you to prepare me a piece of the new Element. Something sized down to be used as a core for an Arc Reactor."
"Already have plans for it then? Fine we'll get it done...Though there is still one remaining issue" Sterns tells me.
I narrow my eyes and face him:" And that is?"
He burst into laughter:" Why it needs a name of course! This is a new Element we're talking about after all."
I simply chuckle at his insanity:" Yeah I have something. How about Byzantium"
Maya react this time:" Isn't that some historic name? Does this have to do with your magic?"
"Not really, its just a good name and I thought it would fit." I simply say as I walk past them. Before me is a glowing orb of the newly dubbed "Byzantium"
I considered this when I first received the blueprints of the Arc Reactor, but this is truly revolutionary. Its actually quite the travesty that Stark never used this for something other than powering his tower in New York.
The Arc reactor truly is a genius invention. In the simplest terms, its a conventional reactor employing nuclear fission. The same as nuclear Power plants that were used in my own reality. But with a core difference.
A nuclear Power plant uses the extreme heat generated during nuclear decay to then heat up water tanks which are used for Steam Turbines. The issue in question here is of course how much energy is actually lost in the progress. From the radiation to the heat, a large percentage of that energy is lost and even causes issues later on. The Problem was that we had to convert the energy and generate electricity in a manner that we knew off.
The Arc Reactor however does something else. It Uses the energy released in the Process and converts it directly without issue. No radiation leaking out and no Heat melting everything. Its all converted directly into electricity.
But, as one can imagine, if its so great, why aren't we using it.
Well the Big reactor in California had one mayor issue. It wasn't efficient and it didn't pay of. Unlike conventional reactors, the arc reactor was only capable of using Palladium rather than Plutonium or Uranium. First of. it had a considerably smaller energy output in total(While the reactor produced more than conventional ones, The total energy generated by the nuclear fission was far less than the other variants.)
Second Problem was the Price. Just a single Ounce of Palladium costs about 2350.12 US Dollars. I would like to point out that that cost more than both Gold and Platinum. So yeah, the project was scrapped after that.
Until Tony miniaturized it off course. It was something I had discussed with peter ages ago concerning how the Square cube Law could apply to the Reactor. This principle states that, as a shape grows in size, its volume grows faster than its surface area. When applied to the real world this principle has many implications which are important in fields ranging from mechanical engineering to Bio-mechanics. It helps explain phenomena including why large mammals like Elephants have a harder time cooling themselves than small ones like mice, and why building taller and taller skyscrapers is increasingly difficult.
A good example of this principle can be seen in small insects such as ants. Regular ants can carry as much as fifty times their own body weight, but when you scale them up to human size the can lift about a multiplication of 1.2 of their own weight. This is because things such as mass and strength and energy don scale equally. Not to mention that material density and strength remain the same as well.
Where a tic or a water bear bug can carry their weight a thousand fold, their bodies would crush them if supersized. What one is to take from this is, the smaller the thing, the bigger its relative strength or energy.
The same principle can somehow be applied to the Arc reactor. My brain started hurting when it came to the idea, but it made sense in a strange sort of way. So while a smaller reactor didst produce as much energy as a big one, it was relatively more efficient and produced more.
As far as I remember, the Arc reactor and specifically my new element were based on the Tesseract so I can somewhat understand it fucking with conventional physics.
Just like how the Pym Particles and all that Ant man Business throws the previous principles right out of the window. Seriously, If you supersize a human by changing his density, he wouldn't become a giant behemoth who can crush everything underfoot, but rather something akin to a balloon and fly of. His density would be less than that of air, and he would start floating away...if he didn't die in the process first...Marvel Science is weird...Maybe I should just stick to magic instead...
Speaking of which, I still need to sort things out with the MACUSA. Well I have time so I ought to sort it out now. I smirk at Fou once again and ask the others:" You know where Mercy is?"
"Its her day of...You said you'd be busy in Monaco after all." Maya answers.
"Oh...Guess I should go tomorrow then." I say while I pet little Fou. Waiting another day cant hurt.
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1 Day later, on the way to the MACUSA HQ
"So you're also some demonic witch who has most of the MACUSA shitting themselves and have been technically ignoring them for the past six months?" MY good driver and soon to be Assistant Mercy asks.
"More or less. To be fair, what normal person would allow rats to enter their home? Seriously, that's how the plague happened." I whine out as I stare out of the car's window. My hands are currently busy stroking Fou's fluffy fur, something he is really enjoying.
I wont deny, but the little guy has really grown on me. I already have a cover for the little guy should someone ask as to what he is. I did consult Merlin on the issue and he gave me the idea of claiming little Fou to be a Ratatoskr. That is magical squirrel like creature originating from Asguardian Mythology and commonly found within Scandinavian. Fou doesn't quite fit their description, but it will do for the average wizard.
I also made a familiar contract with the little one. It doesn't allow me to control him or anything, but I does allow for me to speak with him mentally. I wanted it done as I can basically call him over and have him teleport around with this.
I turn to Mercy who remarks on my answer "I think there was a bit more to it than that, but I see what you mean. The MACUSA is quite far behind when it comes to technology but the Europeans are even worse. They flat out refuse any change while the MACUSA at least try. For instance, I think some started using Film Reel recently and some imitation of a movie industry is in the works actually."
I stare at Mercy in a dumbfounded Manner:"Film Reels...As in the stuff we had before VHS tapes?" She merely nods at my question.
I simply lean back as I think:" Its a bloody miracle that Percival ever managed using a phone if the rest are behind by at least 60 YEARS! I mean seriously! Film Reels!" I burst out before flopping into my seat again.
"Just imagine how their minds will be blown as soon as they discover the internet." This causes a cute snort to erupt from mercy before she rights herself.
After we continue driving for a few more seconds, she asks:" Say, does the MACUSA even know of your No-Maj Job and all that?"
"Not really. After graves helped me setup a Bank account with Gringotts, I didn't really do much else with them. I was meant to get a tour through the magical district..Blighttown?" I ask as I'm unsure on the name.
"Dusk-town actually. I'm just asking because you will probably have to explain your connection with me. I'm not really a part of the magical community after all." She answers as she turns at an intersection.
I know the American Ministry is rather progressive on these issues, but I do have to ask. Are Squibs still being discriminated against?" I ask as I continue looking out the window. Sure I had a previous opinion on how much the MAUSA had improved, but sometimes the truth will only come out by checking how the people in question are actually affected.
She takes a while, but eventually answers:" Not really to be honest, though I'm not certain as the Graves family is rather influential. I wasn't really treated badly in any way, but I don't really have a place in that society. So education and occupation wasn't really a choice for me. Going with conventional Jobs was necessary in the end."
Well that was better to be expected to be honest. Considering the changes started after WW2, then it makes sense that she hasn't felt that much. Especially if the Graves family held some degree of power in the Ministry. If I recalled, one of the first twelve American Aurors was a Graves after all.
I'm snapped out of my thoughts as the car comes to a stop in front of the Woolworth Building on Broadway. As I continue gazing out of the windows and regularly use my Mystic eyes, I notice something. Before Mercy can open her car door, I grab hold of her shoulder:" Stop!"
She freezes as she looks back at me:" Jeanne? Whats wrong?"
I look up at an adjacent building and point towards a window:" I don't have a scope or anything, but take a look up there"
Her eyes follow my instruction and she stares at the window in question:" Is that...Is that a camera?"
"It is, and its pointed right at the MACUA's Headquarters." I say as I expend my senses with Presence detection.
"Well...that doesn't really have to mean anything right? Its just a camera after all. It could be for a study or maybe a movie. Even in the worst case its probably some loony conspiracy theorists."
I pull her attention to another window:" well funded, equipped and manned ones it would seem."
she now begins to panic at this implication. I simply continue inspecting our surroundings until I find a man wearing a black suit within the apartment.
Shield Agent LV 55 (surveillance)
STR 40
VIT 35
DEX 30
INT 85
WIS 30
CHA 50
LUC 10
Unique skills:
Reconnaissance expertise
Spec ops training
Gun play LV 60
The first thing sticking out of course is the affiliation. Its actually also a good thing as it is SHIELD and not HYDRA. Though it still means that both know of the MACUSA, but it does insure that they don't necessarily hold hostile intentions...Its still a big fucking Problem though. And here I thought the ministry god rid of them in the early 70s...Just how long does SHIELD know of them.
I look back at Mercy who actually hasn't been panicking as bad as I expected at first:" Mercy, I know these Guys and I'm sure you have at least heard of them when you were part of the Military. We're dealing with SHIELD:"
Mercy's eyes widen at this but before she can say anything I continue:" However, if this situation isn't handled with finesse, then some serious repercussions could arise. That's why I'm asking you to keep quiet about this for now."
"What! Are you saying we do nothing! We have the shadiest intelligence agency in all of America spying on us!" She freaks out.
I hold out my palm as I say:" Calm down Mercy, I said nothing of the sort. I have a line of contact with SHIELD and know someone within the organization who is capable of secrecy. I'm gonna probe him on this situation and will try to resolve this. Peacefully. Can I count on you not to mess this up?"
She contemplates before asking:" I ahh...fine...Id prefer you tell Percival as well, but I don't think he would be up to the task to be honest. You've already shown to be quite tech savy and are capable of covering your tracks. Just...a lot of people could be endangered with this...Be careful ok?"
I simply nod as I use my Projection to creates two items:" I give you my word at that. And we may as well start now. These spooks are probably recording everyone to enter the building and any notable features they have. So put this on for now:" I say as I hand her a clear white mask with two black lenses and an elongated mouth. It happens to be the mask from the Scream franchise, something that exits in this reality at least(I was quite bummed out when I found out that most of my favorite horror franchises didn't exist or were criminally unheard of).The Masks also have a small rune on the upper half that lights up as soon as Mercy touches it. I wasn't really creative with the projection, but it will have to do for now.
As she fastens the mask on her face, I do the same to mine. The runes dimmer and our hair changes to a light blond color. As she inspects her appearance in the rear-view mirror, I also gesture for her to remain inside for now as we will most probably attract attention with our disguises. Sure most onlookers will think it to be cosplay or some sort of event, but SHIELD will think very differently. That means that any identifying features we have, need to be removed. Fou moves into my jacket and hides in one of the inner pockets. His head sticking out of there is one of the cutest things I've ever seen, but I cant really react to it right now.
I activate my presence concealment and open the the backdoor. I move to the back of our car and reach the number-plates. Pulling from quite a bit of my Mana reserves, I Project a very thin and most importantly a fake Number-plate and use my Hellfire to heat it up to an acceptable degree before pasting it on the existing one. I make my way to the front and repeat the process before entering the car once again. My projections will hold for about 6 hours before they dissipate. The mask will take twenty minutes due to the rune I added, but we only need them to enter the building.
I now deactivate my magic and signal for Mercy to exit the car. We both leave the parked vehicle and cross the street. We receive some odd stares but nothing more than that. Using my Presence detection Lv 73, which has a range of 146 meters, I can still sense the actions of the SHIELD agents. Its nos surprise that their cameras follow us and then trace back to our car, but with my preparations, our identities remain a secret.
We finally reach the revolving doors of the building and enter the correct one that takes us into the MACUSA. As the Magical Field washes over us, the runes of our masks dim from the anti glamour wards. We move away from the entrance ad gain quite a few suspicious stares concerning our masks. As they fulfilled their purpose, I quickly dissipate them before anyone can accuse us of hostile intentions. To bad it had quite the opposite effect as quite a few Wizards recognize my face before quickly backing away in fear.
"It seem you're rather popular." Mercy remarks at their retreating forms.
I simply snicker at it as I move towards a terminal in the middle of the large hall. The line of waiting Wizards quickly clear in front of us before I reach the clerk.
"Matter of business please" the older man asks in a dejected tone without even looking up.
Deciding to play along, I simply say.:" I wish to arrange and urgent appointment please." I request.
"Meetings and appointments are handled at terminal 4. Please make your way there and do not waste my ti-" He freezes as he looks up from his paperwork and directly into my glowing eyes.
I simply smirk at his terrified expression before saying:" Thank you kindly for the help. Have a nice day." I say in cheerful tone as I begin walking to the terminal. I don't have to turn around to sense his Jaw basically hit the floor and for his heart rate to skyrocket.
"You're enjoying yourself far too much Boss." Mercy comments on my gleeful smile.
"I don't know what you mean" i joke only gets a sarcastic look from her face.
"Oh come on. Everyone's afraid of me and I can use it to cut through lines. Not to mention I get to terrorize lazy bureaucrats! What could be better?" I laugh as we reach terminal four. I set my sights on a twenty year something old clerk who has been quaking in his boots the closer I came to him.
I simply give a smile as I say:" Hi there, I would set up a meeting if possible."
He stares in fear before stammering out:" Ah..Y..Yes. W..With whom w..would you like to set up an appointment with?"
"Director Graves if possible" I tell him.
He pulls at his tight collar before answering:" Umm... Directer Graves is...I ah. I'll contact his office and try to set up a meeting...I apologize, this may take a while."
I simply answer:" No problem at all, I'll make myself comfortable in the seats over there then. Please call me over at any developments."
"Ahhhh. Yes Mam..." He quickly answers a he begins writing on a small paper rat which folded itself out in front of him.
Mercy and myself head over to a few comfy chairs, while I grumble out:" You know if they used phones or something, then it would be far easier and quicker to communicate across departments."
Mercy merely chuckles as she takes her seat:" I've been trying to convince Percival for Years, but its a change that they're not quite ready for. I think he is one of the only people around who actually has a phone. Other than those who are somehow connected to No-maj's of course. They tend to get with the times...You mentioned you knew Porpentina Skamander?"
"Yes, I met her once when I first came here. What about her?" I ask as I lean back in the chair.
"Well her sister married a No-Maj if I recall and she did modernize quite a bit because of it. So yeah, such special cased do happen, but as you can imagine its rare." She informs me.
As I think of the little slice of lore, I notice a strange feeling. Specifically a strange moving in my Jacket" Fou?" I ask for the little one only to see his head pop out of my pocket once more...which is on the other side of the crawling sensation.
Fou notices it himself and jumps out of the pocket and hops under my clothes. I'm temporarily assaulted by a tickling sensation before both Fou and a small black creature jump out and land on the floor in front of me. The creature in Question, id describe it as a mix of a Mole and Platypus and...its currently busy pushing my Phone into its stomach.
'Ahh...What is this thing?' I think as it is busy breaking the laws of Physics. Fou on the other hand Yells out "Fou! Fouu!" and begins chasing the strange creature.
As the two run of, I can only yell out:" Wait! Get back here!" I jump up from my chair as Mercy whispers "I think that's a niffler."
"i don't care what it is, it has my Phone!" If he had stolen one of my Burners, then it would be fine, but this was my main Phone. All of my Contacts and a lot of important data was on it.
I begin running after the pair, much to the alarm of many Wizards around me. The two, keep running around, running through legs, bursting through rat memo's and eventually coming across the large staircase in the back of the Hall. Before the little rodent can run any further, I hear someone yell out "Stupefy" and a blue bolt whizzes past me and hits the niffler.
Fou runs around in Fear before rushing back to me and climbing up until he reaches my Shoulder.
A man with a blue overcoat rushes past me. He runs up to the niffler and gently takes hold of it. The main thing sticking out is the tousled red brown hair on his head. Be slightly turns his head to address em but is still preoccupied with the creature:" I'm terribly sorry about that. This little one has a bad habit of taking what isn't his and he always causes trouble with his antics."
Finally realizing who is before me, I answer:" Its no problem, after all. Nifflers are know to do that. He did take my phone though, so I'll need that back."
He grabs on to the creature and holds it by its legs:" A phone? Oh my he always does take stranger things with the passing years." He starts to vigorously shake the little rodent:" Not to worry though, you'll have it back in just a mome-" In that moment the Phone plops out and falls to the floor face first.
In a lovely spectacle, the glass screen shatters onto the cold marble floor.
He freezes at that for a moment before pulling out his wand again:" Ah..No worries, we'll have that fixed in a minute." I rush to stop him, but am to late as he chants" Reparo " The screen slowly repairs itself, only for the phone to suddenly give of a small 'pop' sound as it suddenly starts curving its shape. It suddenly burst into flames, to the shock of the wizard in front of me. I was kinda expecting it as I heard that magic and digital equipment don't mix that well. To me it honestly looked like it agitated the Battery and caused a rupture in it or something. Either way its fucked...
The Wizard in question quickly tries to extinguish the Fire, but the chemical flames need to burn out first. He eventually uses a frost spell of sorts to snuff out the flames. The smoke eventually disappears, revealing the charred remains of my Phone.
He stands up and quickly says:" Well I guess my apologies are in order. To be fair I did not know that would happen. You see modern technologies and magic sometimes jus- What is that!"He was turning during his rather bad apology and has now spotted little Fou resting on My shoulder.
He rushes over and inspects the little one. Of course, why wouldn't Newt Skamander freak out at seeing Fou. He gets right in our faces to stare at him. Fou only rushes around my Shoulder trying to hide from him.
"I don't suppose I could claim he's a Swedish Ratatoskr and you would believe me?" I ask with a crooked smile.
"Well first, a Swedish Ratatoskr is either green or blue, not to mention they posses a completely different skeletal structure compared to this fellow, The joints of his front paws and the consistency of his Fur are also completely different. Ans Lastly, this fellows Mana signature is amazing, if anything, id have to compare it to a Phoenix. Just what is this darling creature." He continues staring at Fou until he backs up a bit:" Of my where are my manners, I'm Professor Newt Skamander. Pleasure to meet you Miss? He asks me.
"Ah of course I'm-"
"Miss Jando the Dragon witch" A voice calls out from above us. While Newt stares at me in both fascination ad reversion due to my identity(and little Fou) I simply stare at the voice above us. From the stairway above and now quickly descending, is Percival Graves.
Newt keeps on inspecting Fou as Graves eventually approaches us. The first thing he notices is the charred remains of my phone and the Niffler still within Newt's hand. Quickly putting two and two together he puts his hand on his forehead in Frustration.
Newt on the other hand stares at me in fascination:" So you're the Demonic witch that was all over the papers half a year ago. My wife told me all about you. I actually heard that apparently you aren't completely loony like the rest of those who studied your craft!"
Graves only grabs his skull in greater frustration at his comment.
I don't know if Newt is stupid or incredibly brave for insulting me like this, but judging by what I know, he didn't mean it like that. Heck, this is the guy who flirted by comparing Tina's eyes to that of a lizard. Even so I need to say something of my own:" You're the kind of guy who has words flow out of his mouth before they reach his brain aren't you?
Before Newt can answer, Percival interrupts instead."Yes, he is known to do that. Miss Jando, I would like to inform you that the MACUSA does not endorse this behavior by Mr Skamander and that any retaliation against him will not hold any consequences for him. We merely ask that whatever punishment you inflict for the destruction of your property and insult to your name be swift and without casualty."
We both stand there for a few seconds. Completely frozen and waiting for my answer. A few more seconds pass before I burst into mad laughter:' Bhuwaahahahah...Hahhahaha. hahahhaa..Holy shit man. They really are fed up with you Newt! Hahhaahaa! How the hell did you manage that."
As I continue laughing, I can sense both of them slowly calming down. I guess they thought for a few seconds that I really would do something.
I eventually calm down before Percival states:" Well the main cause is the constant violations, be they international or domestic. A whole lot of diplomatic Snafu's and a general disposition of butting into business he really shouldn't involve himself with!" Graves yells out, finally venting his frustration on Newt.
Newt on the other hand merely scratches his head in mild embarrassment. Percival merely continues:" In any case you should be thankful that The Dragon witch is rather reasonable and doesn't let such instances anger her." he says while gesturing to me.
"Wait wait. How would you know that, I could be be boiling with hatred inside right now.!" I quickly retort.
He stares at me in confusion:" Well I happen to be a good judge of character and its rather obvious that you don't fit into the standard mad wizard archetype. So it shouldn't be to hard to calm the population down when it comes to your existence." he pauses as he sees me slightly pouting at that. He eventually asks:" isn't this better though? I mean , I thought you would prefer it if you weren't as feared and shunned."
I simply say:" You'd think that, but it has its benefits as well. For instance, its the perfect defense against the bane of all beings! Bureaucracy!."I pause for a bit for his confusion to sink in:" Seriously, I didn't have to wait in line at all because everyone was quaking in their boots and moving out of my way! If that isn't the greatest thing ever then I don't know what is."
Percival stares at me in...Shock I guess. I think his mind cant wrap its way around how I would value something so trivial to him. The Snickering from Skamander make the whole situation even better.
"Oh do tell what is so funny Skamander!" Graves growls at Newt.
"its just...hahahahaa..Blimey, you know she has a bloody point. The wait in the lines here is atrocious you know." Newt continues laughing.
Percival eventually calms down before:" Well Skamander, you've already inconvenienced our guest and I have a private meeting with her. I believe we bid you farewell then." He orders him as he turns to me.
Newt stammers out:" W..Wait a second, what about that fascinating creat-" He is quickly silenced by the glare given to him by Percival.
With that, he finally makes himself scarce and heads to the exit. Percival on the other hand lets out a breath before he raises his head towards me:" No then, with that finally done we can begin wi-...Mercy?" He ask in shock while looking behind me.
"Wait you only noticed me now!?"Mercy yells out at her cousin.
Before He can stammer something out I quickly interrupt:" She's with me. I have a day job, needed a bodyguard, found her by accident and can we continue this in Private?" I say as I notice the many withes and Wizards staring at us from within the hall.
Graves quickly accepts and takes us to his office. There I explain how I met Mercy and give him the bare bone explanation of my day job. He is somewhat worried about me possibly exposing Magic, but I do calm him down as I pretend that any appearances of myself have been covered up as being a mutant. (Not like he has the right to criticize me when SHIELD id literally just outside) With that all out of the way, we can finally start our business.
"Well you are obviously wondering why I was silent for half a year yes?"
He nods:" We were actually under the impression that you either were somehow killed yourself or more likely decided not to uphold our agreement. I take it with you being here that that was not the case?"
I nod right back at his correction:" Correct. I believed something similar, as I hadn't received ANY Word from the MACUSA in these past few months" Before he can interject, I raise my hand and continue:" As I am technically an outsider, I was unaware of the conventional methods of communication. For this reason, a Familiar of mine took it upon itself to kill any Memorandum Rodentium approaching my home. Rats aren't something you really want in your apartment after all." I finally finish.
He pinches the top of his nose before answering:" Yes...Yes that would make sense if you didn't know about it...I take it your familiar knows better now?" I nod at the question" Good...I've kept copies of any requests we sent to you. Would mind looking them over now" He asks.
I gesture for him to do so. He moves to his desk and pulls out a decently sized folder from a cupboard. He opens it up and slides it over to me. I sit down and begin reading the letters.
He waits as I read a few of them before stating:" We obviously understand if you cannot complete them all, what with the difficulty involved and whatever complex relations they may have in hell an-"
"I'll do them all." I simply state as I continue reading the documents
"Wh...Wait are you sure? Wont you step on any tows if you hunt them all? Are you certain you have the authority to do so?" He asks incredulously.
I pause from my reading as I look up at him:" I actually want to get in the MACUSA's good graces as I have a few requests myself. But back to the authority issue. Funny thing how that works actually. If say humans or mages or whatever faction starts killing demons, then we retaliate en masse. But if we kill each other? That's just our daily business. Demons kill one another constantly and the only ones we aren't allowed to touch are the Hell lords...Except me of course, i've actually been ordered to kill some of those." I tell him. I had actually confirmed this a few days ago with Lucifer and he had Maze explain how it worked. I obviously wont be rewarded for killing them, but I wont be punished for it either. If anything, it provides me with a great opportunity of leveling up without having to fight servants again.
Mercy and Percy( Oh damn. Their names rhyme!) both think over my explanation before Percival says:" I will ignore that fact that when you refereed to the demons, you counted yourself among them. Rather than dwell on that, I actually have a question on your targets. Your first target Satana Hellstrom...Well we have had sightings of her in Europe, or France to be precise and we made a discovery."
I peek up at him:" That she's Lucifer's Daughter right?" He nervously nods" Well its no mistake that she is targeted. She's pissed of Daddy dearest and has made a contract with an ancient Demon known as the Basilisk. She means to gain Power from it but will eventually be overthrown by the demon. Satana is just a brat acting out, but the Demon in question is far to dangerous to be left alive."
Sp this Basilisk is the true target then. I was rather curios, as most sightings of her usually ended peacefully. No murders, deaths, or kidnappings of any sorts. So we were wondering what would end in her targeting...We haven't heard of your other targets though. Mephisto, Blackheart and Satannish all remain in hell and never surface."
I pause at one of the reports before answering:" Well he wont come up until Blaze has to do his jo-" I freeze as I remember not having told him any of this. Shit, I haven't been keeping an eye on that at all. I turn to Percival and say:" Shit...Ok. Here's the Deal. You cant kill a demon in hell, especially not if its in his own realm. You have to surprise them when they're busy on Earth. For Mephisto and Blackheart, I devised a rather solid plan actually. The Key there is Johnny Blaze."
Mercy is the first to speak up:" The Stunt artist? What does he have to do with a Hell Lord?"
Percy asks:" You know of him?"
She quickly answers him:" Yeah. He's rather famous for his death defying stunts. The kind that should put him in the hospital, but he usually walks out just fi-" She freezes as she realizes what this might mean.
I simply smile:" Bingo! He made a contract with Mephisto ages ago and is the current Vessel for Zarathos The fallen angel. I think he's more known as the Spirit of Vengeance to most."
They both stare in shock at the revelation. That such a powerful existence was parading out in the limelight without anyone knowing...Before they can ask, I lay out my plan.
"Blackheart will eventually turn on his father and travel to earth. After this, Mephisto will activate the Ghost rider to hunt him down. He has to do this as his own form will be weakened just like that of his son's."
"and you plan to strike at this opportunity yes?" The director deduces correctly. I merely nod in confirmation.
"As I've been rather incompetent at surveillance. Id like to ask you to keep and eye on blaze and inform me the moment he comes into contact with any demonic elements." I request. Graves quickly accepts and goes to write and order which is quickly transported by the Memo Rats.
As I continue reading the request in front of me, I ask:" This haunted Property in Oregon. The Mountain range to be specific. Do you think Gringotts could acquire it for me? I would personally love to be its owner."
He looks over the Property in Question before answering:" The Goblin nation is rather integrated and should be able to acquire it for you. It will be quite cheap for obvious reasons...actually, there is one request id like you to handle first if possible." He points to the second last section of the folder.
I quickly begin reading it and slowly have my eyes widen at the description. Both the Incidents and the Location ring alarm bells in my head. So he's a demon in this universe..Good to know. I already recognize the story and the logical side of my brain says to run away! …...Too bad I'm somewhat of a danger lover and will probably do it anyway. (I blame Dark Souls)
"Now this one is really interesting! I know exactly what were dealing with here...Shit."
"Whats wrong?" He asks, slightly unnerved at my reply
"This is the kind of Demon where we have to act fast and get him quickly before he disappears again. Not to mention that Civilians will undoubted be involved. I'm good at killing, but obliviation isn't my thing. I will need you to send an Auror with me to handle this." I quickly explain my issue. I would have proffered to handle the demon alone, but I could get in serious trouble if I'm sloppy about it.
Graves stares resolutely before answering:" No...I'll go myself"
Now its my turn to stare in shock. He wants to go himself?
Before i'm allowed to ask, he quickly explains himself:" I was still an Auror when this Demon last appeared. It was one of my first assignments and it has left a bad taste ever since. The fact that it was never resolved and that this is now possible are all the reason I need to go!"
I'm a bit shocked at his revelation, but I do understand his side. I hold out my hand :" I guess we'll be working together then. Today in a week, just outside the city limits. We meet there. Sound good?"
He grabs my hand and shakes it firmly:" Yes...sounds good."
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1 Day Later, Jeanne's Apartment
I currently don't have that much to do, so I'm busy switching channels on my newly bought TV. Its rather funny that most channels and News Organizations from back home have been replaced with new ones, but it does add to my interest. What doesn't help is the fact that i've been in the news myself.
I was seen on the tracks of Monaco after all, and the world is seeing it as definitive Proof that Mutants exist. Funny how i'm not even one of them. But nevertheless, i'm the talk of the nation and i'm currently tuned in to a senate hearing over in DC with a certain Redheaded Speaker.
" In every Organism on Earth there exists a mutator gene - the X-factor, as it has come to be known. It is the basic building block of evolution - the reason we have evolved from homo habilus, to homo erectus, to homo sapiens Neanderthals, and, finally, to homo sapiens." The hot redhead says as slideshow plays behind her.
"Taking it's cues from the climate, terrain, various sources of nourishment, the mutator gene tells the body when it needs to change to adapt to a new environment. The process is subtle, normally taking thousands of years. Only in the last few thousand years did mankind begin to make clothes for himself, build shelters, use heat and grow food in large quantities. With this man-made environment remaining relatively stable, the X-factor became dormant. Until now."
She pauses as the politicians around her mull over what she just said. She eventually continues "For reasons still not known to us, we are seeing what some are calling the beginnings of another stage of evolution-"
A microphoned voice interrupts:" You're avoiding the question I posed to you at the beginning of the hearing, Ms. Grey. Three words: Are mutants dangerous?" The camera zoom over to the man and soon a name underlines his Face: Senator Kelly.
The red Head answers:" I am avoiding a question that is decidedly loaded, Senator. The wrong person behind the wheel of a car can be dangerous. The same applies for the owner of any gun as-well"
I chuckle out at her answer. It makes a nice jab at Kelly as he had recently been quite vocal against any gun reform issues recently. If he denies her logic, then he'll deny his own by definition.
Sadly another senator covers for him:" Well, we do license people to drive." He says while conveniently ignoring the the logic trap she laid out. And with the room laughing at his joke, it will probably be forgotten.
"Yes, we license people to drive, but not to live!" She exclaims as she is losing the room's support.
Sentator Kelly continues: " Ms. Grey - you supposedly work at a school for mutants in Westchester , New York Yes? Can you tell the members of this committee what exactly you are teaching these mutants?"
"Math. History. Science. English. Athletics-"
"You wouldn't happen to be teaching them how to use their powers to-"
"Control, Senator... we teach them control." She answers in a defeated tone. I guess this really isn't going her way.
Kelly raises a large photograph depicting a grainy image of a partially molten car." This was taken by a state police officer in Clovis, New Mexico. A man in a minor altercation literally melted the car in front of him. I don't know where you come from, Ms. Grey, but where I come from, you don't go melting people's cars when they cut you off. You do it the old fashioned way . You give 'em the finger." The Crowd laughs at his little joke." But lets continue."
He says as he holds up a batch of papers, his assistant just brought him: "I hold here, a list of names, of confirmed mutants living within the US. One can for instance, phase through walls at will. How long till she decides to go though a bank vault or something even Worse such as the White house Ms Gray.
There are even rumors, of Mutants capable of invading out thoughts and controlling our minds. Beings capable of taking away our god-given will. Do the American people not have the right to know of such threats living within our nation?"
"And what of the Mutant that started this debate? The woman who saved Tony Stark's Life in that terrible event in Monte Carlo. Is this her reward for risking her life to save a national Hero? You wish to expose that brave woman's identity and expose her to the world? And do tell me how she poses a danger to the public, someone capable of healing wounds rather than creating them." Jean gray quickly retorts. I don't usually like my name being used for Politics, but I'm kinda ok with this. The murmurs among the crowd seem to reflect that.
Kelly quickly gathers himself before answering: "Yes indeed, that woman is a hero. And just imagine what we could achieve if she came forward. The leaps and bounds in Medicine that could stem from her. If anything, she's an even greater argument for registration." He pauses for a while as he taps his glasses. Damn Bastard wants to lock me up and slice me open in a lab...Like that's ever going to happen.
The senator continues:" Ms. Grey, we are not here to weed out mutants! The Registration Act is designed merely to assess their potential threat and - if any - to national security! And to a greater extent, to help humanity's progress and aid all people!" The crowd reacts loudly in support of the Senator. Some cheer and some roar in support of the proposed bill.
Jean stands and walks out, pushing her way through reporters now moving in for her response. All the while,Kelly is delivering his last words:" Mutants are very real. They are among us. We must know who they are. And above all, we must know what they can do!"
I finally change the channel as I've grown quite irritated at the man. Such a law wouldn't just affect Mutants, but The normal Populace as well. It would give the Government so much power and absolute authority in arresting and invading Peoples lives. All for the sake of "Security".
As I'm quite agitated, at the news I continue switching through the channels on the TV. A few seconds pass of me not finding anything until I hit the Daily Bugle.
Breaking news!
A few hours ago, a fire broke out from within the Baxter Building. While having various difficulties at first, first responders were capable of extinguishing the flames and evacuating any and all injured. Authorities have deduced, that it stemmed from an explosion caused from a lab belonging to esteemed Noble Prize winner Dr Reed Richards. The Nature of the Experiment is still unknown, and any questioning is impossible as Dr Richard is among the most heavily wounded. While many inhabitants were able to evacuate quickly, some were still injured in the fire. Along Dr Richards, 4 other people have been brought to the ICU. Among the injured are Benjamin Grimm, Susan and Johnny Storm, as well as Dr Richard's Lawyer Jennifer Walters, who is currently in critical condition. We are curre-
I turn of the Tv and sit silently on my couch. Completely calm and still...
A few minutes pass before I jump from the couch in absolute happiness,'Fuck Yeah! I was afraid we weren't getting her because this was the MCU, but my dreams have been answered. Fucking SHE HULK! Death By SNU SNU! It will be beautiful!' I erupt in mad laughter as I plop down onto the floor.
I have many girls and boys among my Marvel bucket list and She-Hulk is an absolute must have! And she's coming here! Fuck Yeah!...Wait!
I rip up from the floor and pull out my brand new smart phone. While I dial the number, I think of what I need to do here. The receiver picks up the Phone and a gruff tone answers in a Russian Accent:"Jeanne? What can I do for you?"
"Kazan, this is important. Did you see the news of the Baxter building?" I say into the phone.
"Ah? Yes I did...Did you have hand in that?" He asks.
"No Kazan...I didn't. Anyway, I need you to work with Vanessa on this. The five Members who were brought into intensive care, I need you to find them. Have Vanessa replace one of their attending nurses and make sure she takes blood sample from all five of them. After that, she is supposed to stay in cover until a certain person arrives. This Person is Dr Bruce Banner. Look him up and give Vanessa a picture. He is the cousin to the Lawyer, Jennifer Walters. He will sneak into the Hospital to treat her, so Vanessa will have to keep and eye on her in particular. As soon as he arrives, she is to contact me immediately!... Did you get all that?" I ask him.
"just a second" he says while I hear a scribbling noise in the background. Damn, he thinks quickly.
"Dr Banner, will do. Vanessa has some girls that can take over for her while she's gone. Is that all Jeanne?" he asks me
"No, good work Kazan. That will be all" And with that, I hang up the phone and smile. While I am pissed of that so many movies are now taking place at the same time, I cant help but be giddy at the implications they will have for this universe.
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5 Days later,
Malibu, California
I slowly come upon the futuristic mansion overlooking the cliff. Seeing it in a movie and in Real life is always something awesome. Looking down at the Oak Box in my hand, I contemplate my next actions.
I actually wanted to give Stark the Byzantium after he held his disastrous Birthday party, but I can't afford to wait that long. I don't know how long I'll be busy with Graves and having Iron Man's public approval plummet may very well be detrimental to my plans with Ross.
Now I'm here. Waiting outside his mansion and am about to break in...My life is weird.
You don't say!
Sarcasm! Its good look on you SYSTEM!
I aim to please
Urgh...
I activate my presence concealment and head towards the mansion. As I arrive at the property, I realize that getting in quietly isn't that easy. Both the main entrance and garages are sealed shut and I wont get in without triggering the alarm or ringing the doorbell.
I activate my Mystic eyes and analyze the Property. First thing I notice is the two figures down in the lab. The female one is currently busy flailing her arms about in anger as she shouts at a man sitting in his car while drinking some dark sludge , all while completely ignoring her. Ahh...Marriage troubles are always nice.
I stop watching the Stark couple quite quickly. (Watching a married couple fight is always uncomfortable. Just as I did it whenever my old parents fought, I will once again leave and turn to something else.)
I inspect the back of the house and find my entry point. Turns out that you don't really build much security fences or doors when a giant cliff is there to stop any would be robbers. I reinforce my legs and begin leaping next the Property. As I begin plummeting down the cliff, do I realize that my clothes will be soaking wet afterwards...Well it's to late now.
With a lovely splash, I land in the cold water
-100,000 HP
Well that hurt. I did jump from at least 30 Meters, so it makes sense that I would get damage.
I quickly right myself and swim to the surface. I quickly swim over to the Cliff side and grab onto the sharp rocks. Quickly noticing that I suck at climbing, I Project two steel spikes and Stab them into the Wall. With newly found footing, I begin my slow ascent towards the mansion. I continue projecting new spikes and use them to climb up while I dissipate those below me.
A few minutes pass until I finally reach the The building. I took this form of entry because I'm capable of slipping in with ease. As I slide by the glass doors, I make my way towards the living room and gaze at the stairs leading to the Basement and the labs.
As I begin moving over, i'm startled by a disembodied voice:" Miss Penning I presume?"
I freeze at the words, coming from the AI known as JARVIS.' How the hell could he sense me? Presence concealment is supposed to hide my existence completely down to every aspect. Did Stark already develop a countermeasure? If so the-'
"You are dripping saltwater all over the carpet, so I know you are there." The AI says, interrupting my thoughts.'That makes sense'
I drop my Presence concealment and reveal my Moira Penning Disguise:" Pleasure to meet you oh good sir! What might your name be Mister AI?"
"I am just a rather intelligent System, or Jarvis for short. Pleasure to meet you Miss Penning. Though I do have ti insist that you use the front door next time" He says.
"If there even is a next time...Mind if I make myself a drink as we wait for them to finish?" I ask while pointing down to the basement.
"Ah Yes, Master Stark did mention you had unusual eyes. It would seem that even reinforced concrete and lead based lining are no match for them." He says as I walk over to the bar.
"Well this is why I don't like meeting tony, every time we meet, he figures out something new...Actually, Coulson does that as well.." I grab an expensive scotch and and open the bottle as I pull out a glass from under the bar. I quickly fill it to the brim before asking:" I take it they have the usual Marriage scuffle cause by Tony keeping his condition secret?
"An Apt deduction. Mr Stark has not informed anyone of his condition and the secrecy has invoked The captain's Suspicion. It has quickly eroded their trust and has caused the current...scuffle." The AI answers.
As I take a little sip from my drink, I savor the taste of the ludicrously expensive alcohol. After swallowing, I ask:" Might as well break the up the fight right? I mean, I am here now and have everything he needs."
"...Are you certain?" The AI asks in a rather...soft tone.
"Yeah, I am. You have some sort of scanning equipment nearby to check the validity of my claim?" I ask while looking up at the roof of the building(Where else am I supposed to look. Jarvis doesn't have a body after all.)
I suddenly witness a change in my peripheral vision. I spin around to see a black iron man suit suddenly standing right in front of me. I also spy the remnants of a cloacking field fade away at gauntlets and boots of the Armor. Well Tony is much closer to SHIELD in this world, so it makes sense that he made use of their tech from the helicarrier.
"I take it you had this guy aiming at me as soon as I became invisible right?" I ask the suit
"Something like that Miss Penning. Though I was expecting you to see it with your eyes" The suit asks while using Jarvis' voice.
"Well it hurts to use them all the time and all that...Guess I was outmatched here" Even Presence detection wouldn't have worked due to it being based on Mana signatures...Maybe enhance my sense of smell to a greater degree. I've noticed that My Sin of Gluttony has been improving my sense of taste and smell with the more complex meals I've cooked in the past. If I continue with that, I might just be able to tell when a grimy and metallic robot is nearby.
The empty suit holds out its hand:" May I see the replacement element you promised?" He Half orders. The AI honestly scares me. Far to much emotion if you ask me.
I reach down into my jacket and pull the Oak Box out of my inventory. I quickly hand it to the armor, which promptly opens it. Carefully reaching inside, it lifts out a glowing blue triangle.
"Scanning Element...no Match found...
Analyzing Properties...Similar readings found to Palladium...
Calculating feasibility as Palladium replacement...98%
Analyzing effects on human physiology...No detrimental effects found...
Congratulations Miss Penning...It would seem that you have nor only fulfilled your Promise, but also created a new Element...An achievement like this could award you the noble Prize."
I simply smile at the robot:" Well thanks for the complement, but I don't like the Publicity. Considering what Senator Kelly is trying to do with it then definitely no."
"Ah yes, the Mutant Registration Act...For your Information, Mr Stark has voiced his distaste for the bill."
I smirk at him:" You trying to make sure I still like stark and don't try to weasel out of our deal because he wants me tagged like a cow?"
"Something like that" He promptly answers
I chuckle:"Well at least you're honest. Mind putting the Byzantium back in its Box, I kinda want it to be a surprise."
The robot slowly places the glowing metal back:" of course Miss. I take it that will be it's official name then?"
"Hah! As if I'm ever going to publish this work! SHIELD will be on my heels within minutes!" I laugh out.
"Oh my...That is rather unfortunate...Well ive contacted those two and have stated that a "Guest" has arrived'. I was under the impression that you might enjoy the mystery and theatricality ive allowed for you."
I give him a thumps up: " I most certainly do! Thanks a lot Jeeves!"
"Of course miss."
With the confirmation, I take the glass and sprint over to a swivel chair in the living room Area. Secrecy be damned, I want to do this. I contact Fou through our contract and have him appear under my Jacket(That way it looks like he was always there). "Jarvis, dim the lights, I want some suspense! Oh and pretend you were hacked or something"
"...Fine" With that, the lights slowly dim. With me now cloaked in Darkness, I place Fou into my lap and turn the chair so I cant be seen for the soon to arrive Starks.
I wait in the darkness for a few seconds before their voices eventually reach me:" So, who do we have visiting today J?..." He stares around the dark room for a few seconds:" Jarvis? Whats with the lights? Is every-"
"Mr Stark, what a pleasure it is to see you again" I say while turning in the chair while gently stroking Little Fou. The lights slowly illuminate an make my shape visible. 'Jarvis really is great!'
The two freeze while staring at me. The captain takes a defensive position while Tony remains relaxed. Something I notice is Stephanie's puffy and red eyes...'Good thing I decided to show up now'
A few seconds pass before Stark chuckles:" You know, This would be far more threatening if a certain Director of SHIELD hadn't pulled the same trick some time ago. Not to mention, I can tell when Jarvis is acting or if he was actually hacked." He pauses while smirking at one of the indoor cameras "J. Turn on the lights would you?"
The lights quickly turn on and visibility is increased. Both soon recognize me and quickly calm down.
Steph is clearly unsettled by my appearance, but Tony quickly quips:" I give you a 7 out of 10 in terms of doing the Bond Villain. You are missing the cat though and instead have...What even is that? Failed experiment?" Stark quips at us.
Fou is rather offended and chirps out against him:" Fou Fouuuu Fouu!"
I give Stark a smirk in return:" Ahh you made him angry. And no he wasn't an experiment. Believe it or not, but this guy is all natural. Last of his kind and originating from Wales to be exact."
"Are you allowed to have it then?" He quickly asks.
I simply shrug and take another swig from my glass before saying:" Well, my botched entrance and reveal aside, lets get to business. You owe me Stark" I say while glaring at him.
"Uhhh...You're going to have to clarify on that. You did help out a few times though so I guess I do. So please, I'm definitely curious what you'd want." Tony ask as he makes his way to the bar. He eyes The Stealth armor for a bit before moving to the drink cabinet. His arm is still in a sling, so getting a drink proves quite difficult to him.
I simply laugh as I finally get of my chair:" I believe we made a bet for 50 dollars:"
A hear a small crash coming from the bar ans glass splinters fly over the floor. Steph runs over to him quickly and checks if he's ok. He brushes her of as she tries to remove some shard left in his arm:" What do you mean 50 dollars...Are you saying that..."
I gesture over to the Stealth armor which is still holding the box:" Hey don't take my word for it. Jarvis already scanned it, so why don't you take a peek."
Tony slowly turns to the armor, which Jarvis now commands to open the box. The glowing metal is lifted out as Jarvis begins:" The material is unlike anything found on the planet. The New Element dubbed "Byzantium"By Miss Penning is suitable as a replacement to palladium and would reverse its toxic effects...It will save your life sir."
As tony gazes at the glowing metal, he is oblivious to the quickened steps approaching him. He is slung around by the shoulder and is promptly punched in the face. He flies towards me in a comical manner and is now sprawled out over the floor. The perpetrator being his wife, quickly approaches him and pulls him up at his collar. While holding him in the air she cries out:" What did he mean,"Save your life!...I knew it...You're sick..." She promptly starts crying as her grip of him slips.
Tony, quite befuddled at the mood swing, quickly grabs hold of her shoulder with his functioning arm and presses her into his chest. As he tightly embraces her, I look at Tony and whisper:" I told you so!" To which he simply shows me the finger.
The next few minutes ,in which Tony explains his condition, are filled with sobs, hugs, more crying and some punching as well. I feel terribly out of place, a real third wheel actually. I share a look with Jarvis in the armor and he seems to hold sympathy as he is probably feeling something similar. (I don't actually know how similar, but you never know.)
wanting things to move on, I reach into my wet jacket and retrieve a prepared injector from my inventory. I look at the yellow fluid and smirk.
SHIELD was quick in detaining Brandt, but she couldn't really give them anything. Not to mention that her blood will be useless in replicating the formula. She's still unemployed and I kinda liked the crazy redhead in the movie. SO I might have her hired in some unofficial manner later on.
But something else now. I shake the injector around to make sure no bubbles are held within. This lovely dosage will be just enough to heal his arm, but not to heal his chest wound. I did think of doing that, but it would diminish the gratitude I would get from the Byzantium. I also don't know how Extremis would handle the Shrapnel within his body. Would it throw it out? Stab it in the Heart or pump it into his blood stream? I simply didn't want to risk that
I move over to the hugging couple and move to his damaged shoulder. In a quick move, I stab it into his arm and inject the serum. I quickly jump back as Rogers tries to grab me before realizing what I did. They both begin staring at the Arm in amazement as it begins glowing in a warm orange.
A few seconds pass before Stark removes his sling and flexes his newly repaired arm:" Damn...Good as new." He stares over at me once more:" You know, you've really taken the cake this time. Are you gonna tell us how you created a brand new element within a week?"
I simply laugh:" Of course not..."' I take another swig of the scotch my hand:" I still want my 50 bucks though"
They both stare in some semblance of shock before beginning to laugh. Tony is the first to answer:" You want 50 dollars? This thing is worth billions and you want fifty?"
They both stand up before slowly approaching me:" You know, you technically got that value from the scotch you're drinking there. The bottle was worth 75.000$ if I recall."
This was my time to stare in shock. As I stare down into the glass, I remember why I never drank something of this quality in my old life." Damn. Rich people really live in a totally different world"
He simply smirks:" I take it you haven't enjoyed similar luxuries?"
I continue staring at the liquid:" Nah, I grew up in an orphanage and the first dri-" I cut of my words as I realize what just happened. I look up from the glass and into Stark's smiling face.
I simply sight:" Bastard. You know this is why I shouldn't hangout with you or SHIELD. You always fish for more information when it comes to me...You know I'm pissed now, I want a new Payment."
His smirk quickly vanishes:" Well you already gave me the stuff, so you cant really demand that much."
I simply say:" True true..." I finish my drink as I think of what I want. I already have most of his tech, and I already have Arc Reactor stuff coupled with Vanko's Knowledge. Money would be shallow and I really don't need it...
…! begin staring at the two once more. Tony isn't looking too good right now, but with the new Reactor, he'll be right as rain soon enough. Next up Is Stephanie. Well I could compare her with Samus Aran from the Metroid Franchise with some slight alterations to the face and a bit more muscle, but otherwise the likeness is striking. She's really got the voluptuous figure doubled with Peak physical stature and I am digging it. They did notice my obvious staring , but i still didn't stop...I mean, Stark was hinting on it when we first met...Fuck it.
"Tell you what. I'm kinda busy right now and you have to recover first. But when we have the time, lets have a three-way!" I say with a proud tone while giving a thumbs up.
Their reactions are immediate. Tony spits out his drink and Steph begins blushing like crazy. I don't know if we'll ever actually have a chance to do it, but I may as well plant the idea in them.
Tony eventually catches his breath:" You freaking serious?...Well I'm down for it!" His reply gets him a small slap from Steph, making me chuckle quite a bit.
"Something for your Profile you have on me. I'm a pretty big hedonist and i'm usually down for anything." I say to the pair.
Steph is the first to answer, even with a blush still adorning her cheeks:" Well I...Ah...We'll have to put that in then. Right next to you being a Power hungry Megalomaniac with no Moral Boundaries!"
…...
We all stand there for a few seconds in total silence as I guess they were expecting me to refute it:" I'm not denying it beautiful. And yeah, I don't really care about laws or morals when it comes to what I do." I pace a bit before saying:" However, I don't cause unnecessary harm or destruction. I'm rather neutral if anything. And quite selfish as well."
The captain takes a few steps forward then:" Then why your need for Power. You already have plenty of abilities, why do you need more. The Hulk's blood and the Arc Reactor, why do you keep wanting more?!"
My face hardens as she slowly pisses me of:" Because CAPTAIN!...I have Enemies of my own. Powerful ones at that. The kind that bring destruction and terror to all they touch"
"Then Work with Shield. If something like that exists, then SHIELD can handle it. Its their Job after all. They have the experience and the expertise to do it!" She quickly states
"Shield?...Shield the great Protectors of Humanity!" I begin laughing in a sinister Manner. Tony stares over at his armor and slowly moves towards it. I eventually cut of my laughter before saying:" Shield, is one of those Threats if anything. You may think they're your friends but believe me, most of them aren't."
"What exactly is that supposed to mean?" Stark says.
"Look up Natasha Romanov, The Black Widow. That will give you a taste of what Shield is really like. Other than Coulson, Fury and Barton, I don't know who you could really trust among them." I eventually keep laughing:" But its funny, you think they are a match for the enemies I speak of. In a few days, Shield will head out to New Mexico and see just how outclassed they are!"
I eventually stop and stare at the two once more:" I don't enjoy getting shot every time I leave, so I hope you'll show me the courtesy of letting me leave without issue"
After wanting to protest a bit, Stark eventually relents and points to the door:" Then go...I cant say I understand you Penning, but I wont deny that I'm thankful."
I give the two a curt nod before heading towards the exit. I give one last look at Stephanie, Damn bitch completely ruined the mood there. I pat Fou on the head as he holds himself on my shoulder. As soon as I exit the door, I Trigger my Presence concealment and begin Leaping away. I eventually find a secluded spot and enter a portal.
I'm now standing in front of a quint suburban home and think of how I should approach my target. My mood is quite in the dumps right now and I really don't want to put in any effort.
I stare at one of the cars parked in front of the house and check its size specifically. Coming around the trunk, I think 'More than big enough'
I eventually use my Mystic eyes and stare into the house. I quickly find my target sitting in a living room and see that he just started working on a puzzle. His wife is busy cooking in the kitchen and preparing dinner. 'Might as well do it now then. If I wait any longer, he'll probably kill himself before he gets the chance to be useful'.
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1 Day later
Outskirts of a small city, Maine
I continue driving along a muddy path as the sun had already set. The car's light are more than enough, but I still use my Mystic eyes to see the terrain clearly. After various bumps and turns, I come across a small clearing with a lone figure standing in the middle.
I have to say, Percival looks downright awesome with his coat. Not to mention the moonlight shining right on him. He quickly notices my car and readies his wand in case I'm a No-Maj. I eventually bring the car to a stop and climb out of the door.
As Graves finally notices me, he eventually puts his wand back into his Holster. I slowly approach him and see the small beads of sweat flowing down his forehead:" Nervous?"
"Just a bit, this case has been on my Mind for a along as I've been in office. The opportunity to finish the demon responsible will bring closure." he confesses
I put my hands in my pockets and eventually answer" Yeah, seeing that as a young auror must have been quite the ordeal. This Demon is quite extreme after all."
"It seems you know quite a bit of it then? What can you tell me a-" He is interrupted by the sound of a loud banging coming from the trunk of my car. It continues for a few seconds before Graves asks while skeptically pointing a finger at it: "Is a Person in there!?"
I simply chuckle at his question:" Indeed there is. And not just any Person but a survivor. One of the only People who fought the demon in question all those years ago and lived through it all. He and his Friends will help us in killing it forever!"
I say as we move towards the trunk. Percy was probably expecting some bigshot Fighter or Demon Hunter, Not the lanky figure with curly hair sitting in the trunk. The man has a gag in his mouth I put in after he screamed to much during our drive.
I simply smile at the man:" Goood Morning Stanley Uris! It's been 27 Years my Friend and I took the liberty of bringing you to Derry, You old Home. I take it you know why I brought you here?"
Recognition blooms on his face and he promptly faints out of fear. I stare at his limp form for a few seconds before saying:" Well that was disappointing" I close the trunk once more and walk to the front,
Graves quickly closes in and says:" How would this guy help us? He would have been a child back then! What could he and his friends possibly be of help to us?"
I climb into the car and motion for him to do the same. He relents and climbs into the passenger seat.
As I start the engine, I say:" I don't know they can help us or if we even need them. But I do know that with their help, Killing this clown is quite assured."
With that, we finally begin the drive into the city, which is once again haunted by a monster which only appears every 27 years. 'I cant wait!' I think to myself with a gleeful smile.
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Authors Note:
So yeah, I will probably update far less again, as my schedule was shuffled around again and I received a bigger workload.
So yeah...It will take some time until I update again. Please Review
