I do not own the rights to Marvel or Naruto
Khalids POV
I watched as Clint and the mothers loaded up the van that Fury had secured for us to drive back down to New York. Although I would miss Mary-Ann's fantastic cooking, I was even more excited about my second time going through school. Since I already knew how to cook from my previous life, I decided to focus on physics and mechanical engineering. With the Sharingan's photographic memory, I firmly believed that I would be able to catch up to Tony Stark in no time. Not only could I use technology to enhance my shinobi skills, but I also had the potential to build my own modified version of the Ironman suit if I wanted to.
"Khalid, it's time to go!" I heard Alexis shout from outside, indicating that I was the only person not in the van. I took one more glance around the house, moving towards the stuffed bear to run my hand through its fur one last time before heading outside. As I walked to the van, I could see only Alexis, Mary-Ann, the twins, and Elizabeth standing outside, hugging one another.
"I'm going to miss you guys. The house is so lonely when no one is here," said Mary-Ann. "Make sure you boys behave and no more fighting, okay?"
"Yes, Grandma!" Harry and Rowan said in unison. They then turned to the van and hopped in to get settled into their booster seats.
I walked up and gave a deep bow. "Thank you for having us this summer, Grandmother. I graciously await my return."
Suddenly, I was scooped into a tight hug.
"I'm gonna miss you, my little samurai," Mary-Ann said softly as she nuzzled her face against mine.
"I'm a ninja, Grandma," I said, returning the hug. I truly was going to miss the bonding moments I had with my new family. It was nice to actually act my age instead of an adult in a kid's body.
"Alright, come on, Khal! We have a long drive ahead of us!" Clint said loudly in the van. I kissed Mary-Ann on the cheek before she placed me back on the ground. I easily got into the van and fastened myself in my booster seat. I looked around our loaded van to see Gwen and her mom in the backseat, while the twins sat in the middle row, waiting for their mom to enter the van.
After a few more goodbyes exchanged between Mary-Ann and her daughters, we pulled onto the road. I had already prepared myself for the four-hour drive ahead of us, so I pulled out the final scroll of the Konohagakure fighting style and started to look it over. Everyone else around me was chatting excitedly, but I drowned it out, engrossing myself in my studies. I couldn't help but think about what I should do now that it was obvious Ogun wasn't coming back to finish my training.
Still, I was proud of myself for essentially mastering a fighting style in just one summer. Now, armed with the Sharingan, learning new things would become a piece of cake for me. However, I needed to focus on improving my chakra control to the level of Tsunade or Sakura. It wouldn't be easy, but I knew I could achieve it. Perhaps I should gather some chakra control scrolls from the time chamber to aid me in my training. I'll handle that once I'm alone in my new room. Additionally, I still had to figure out the best approach to help the other kids unlock their chakra pathways.
"Are you okay, sweetie?" asked Alexis, placing a hand on top of mine, snapping me out of my thoughts.
"Yeah, I'm okay. Just focusing on my scroll," I explained sheepishly. "Did someone say something to me?"
"Yeah, I was asking if you're ready for your first year of school," Clint asked, looking into the mirror to meet my eyes.
"Yeah, I am. I read some stuff on the computer about a guy called Tony Stark and how he graduated at 14 years old. I'm going to beat that and graduate at age 13," I said confidently.
"That's a pretty high goal, but if anyone can do it, I'm sure you can, baby," said Alexis.
"I want to finish school early too!" Rowan said loudly.
"Yeah, me too!" Harry chimed in, following his brother's lead.
"Then you'll have to work hard to keep up with your cousin," explained Elizabeth.
"Well, he is going to Horizon Academy. If he's going to focus on the science department, then I believe he could. That school teaches differently. They're going to test him to see where he stands and then put him in an appropriate level for his mental capabilities," explained Helen.
"How do you know this about the school?" asked Elizabeth.
"Well, George and I are waiting to see how Gwen does in elementary school before we apply for her to go there," Helen replied quickly.
"Maybe I should do the same with the twins. This place sounds amazing," Elizabeth said. The twins looked at each other in confusion, unsure of what was going on.
Helen enthusiastically changed the topic, eager to discuss all the exciting things Alexis and I could do in the big city. As the van cruised down the road, we engaged in a lively conversation, brainstorming and sharing ideas about the countless attractions, landmarks, and activities that awaited us in New York. From iconic sights like Times Square and Central Park to museums, theaters, and delicious food spots, our discussion was filled with anticipation and excitement. We exchanged recommendations, personal experiences, and insider tips, painting a vivid picture of the vibrant city that lay ahead of us. The atmosphere in the van was buzzing with energy as we eagerly planned our adventures, making the long drive feel shorter and more enjoyable.
"We're here!" Clint said loudly from the driver's seat. I looked out the window to see the beautiful city spread red out in front of me. The towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and vibrant energy of New York City filled me with a sense of awe and anticipation.
"Welcome to New York City!"
"How do I look?" Coulson asked May sheepishly.
"You look like you always do. I don't know why you're so nervous," May said, rolling her eyes. Coulson smiled sheepishly. They stood in front of the home Fury had purchased for him and his family. Fury had already called and said that both he and Coulson's family were 30 minutes out. He had his gifts ready for them. He still wasn't sure if he should tell Khalid about the things they found in Japan.
Coulson was standing there in his usual suit, with the only addition being his crutches. May had on an all-black pantsuit with her hair pulled into a neat bun. Coulson's bag was placed on the porch. He was holding a bouquet of roses for Alexis and a Gameboy Advance, along with a few games, for Khalid. He actually got it a few months earlier, thanks to a favor owed to him by an employee at Nintendo.
"I mean, I've been on long-term missions before, but this one hits different. I still haven't come to a choice on whether I'm going to tell Khalid what we discovered or wait until he's older. I mean, he's basically learning the fighting styles of assassins," explained Coulson.
"I would say wait until the kid is a little older. He's only 5 years old. As far as he knows, they are for self-defense and protecting others," May replied with a smile. Coulson smiled back. May was right; he should just wait until Khalid is ready to handle and accept it. That way, Coulson could guide his son away from following his ancestors' path.
"Besides, in a few months, you'll have another brat to deal with," continued May. Coulson chuckled; he had almost forgotten about that.
"You're right, Khalid isn't his ancestors. Plus, I'm here to guide him. I won't allow him to go down a dark path," Coulson said confidently. May nodded in understanding, mentally making the same vow as Coulson.
After a few more minutes of waiting, Fury and Maria Hill parked across the street from Coulson's new home.
"Welcome to Manhattan, Agent Coulson and Agent May. Welcome back to America. This is Agent Hill; she will be my shadow for the foreseeable future," Fury said as soon as he was in front of them. He was wearing his usual all-black ensemble. Maria Hill was wearing a standard S.H.I.E.L.D uniform with her hair pulled into a neat bun. Coulson was impressed with the young woman, carrying herself with the swagger of a seasoned veteran.
"Good to be back, boss," Coulson said with a smile before turning to Hill. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Agent Hill."
"The pleasure is all mine, sir. You and Agent May are legends at the academy," she said statically, although Coulson could still hear some excitement in her voice. Coulson, May and Fury started talking about starting points for the remaining villages, while Hill went back to sit in the car. She didn't have a high enough clearance or had earned enough trust from Fury yet to hear about the shinobi villages.
After a few more moments, a black van pulled up in front of the building. When the door opened, Alexis rushed out to Coulson, pulling him into a tight embrace. Coulson returned the hug, burying his face into her neck. He hadn't felt warmth like this since he left for Japan. He was knocked out of his thoughts as he felt something tackle his good leg. He looked down to see Khalid smiling up at him.
"Easy, you two, I'm still injured," Coulson said playfully.
"Sorry, Dad, we just missed you, you know!" Khalid said before moving away to greet Fury and May. Alexis kissed Coulson passionately for a moment before breaking the kiss.
"Khalid is right, we missed you. I missed you a lot, and I'm sure our little package missed you too," Alexis said softly enough for only Coulson to hear.
"I know, baby. I won't have to go on a long-term mission for a while, so you guys can have me all to yourself," he replied in the same soft manner.
"Alright, you lovebirds! There are children present," said Elizabeth as she, Helen, and the kids exited the van as well. Alexis introduced Coulson to her sister, Helen, Harry, Rowan, and Gwen. He could hear Khalid telling May about teaching the other kids how to fight. Coulson wasn't too happy about that, knowing what those fighting forms were truly for.
Coulson also observed that Fury had snuck out as soon as he greeted Khalid. Coulson assumed he went to talk to Clint. It was then that Alexis spoke up, "Alright, guys, how about we go check out the new house?"
They all murmured in agreement before moving towards the inside. Khalid and the other kids ran inside, while the women walked more calmly. Coulson followed behind as fast as he could, considering his injury.
Khalid P.O.V
I was in awe as the other children and I explored my new home. Fury hadn't spared any expense when renovating this place. I was truly impressed by what I found inside. The basement of the house had been transformed into a training sanctuary, a place where I could hone my skills and prepare for battles yet to come. The room was adorned with mirrors, punching bags, and a variety of training equipment. Weights lined the walls, waiting to be lifted by those seeking strength and discipline.
Ascending to the first floor, we were greeted by a modern kitchen that exuded elegance and functionality. The stainless steel appliances gleamed under the soft glow of recessed lighting, while the marble countertops invited culinary creativity. The kitchen seamlessly flowed into a spacious living room, where guests would gather to share stories and laughter, basking in the warmth of the crackling fireplace.
On the second floor, four bedrooms awaited to be occupied. Each room boasted its own luxurious bathroom, ready to be personalized by the inhabitants. One of the rooms had been transformed into a vibrant nursery, adorned with all the necessary items for a newborn. I was excited for the chance to decorate my own room and make it truly my own.
The third floor was a sanctuary for Coulson and Alexis. The master suite was a haven of tranquility, with a plush king-sized bed, a walk-in closet filled with luxurious clothing, and an opulent en-suite bathroom complete with a deep soaking tub. It was a space where they could retreat and find solace after a long day.
The fourth floor housed a magnificent library and office. Towering bookshelves lined the walls, filled with philosophy books, classic literature, and works of fiction. A grand mahogany desk sat in the center of the room, providing a space for focused work.
Finally, the fifth floor held a secret that only a select few knew about. Concealed behind a hidden door, a fortified bunker stood ready to protect its inhabitants in times of crisis. Stocked with emergency supplies, reinforced walls, and state-of-the-art security systems, it was a sanctuary in the face of danger, providing a sense of security and peace of mind.
I was now standing in my room alone while everybody else was saying their goodbyes downstairs. The room was empty, with only a standard bed and frame. It was spacious enough that I could have a TV area and a workspace inside the room, and still have enough space for a bookshelf.
"You can paint it whatever color you want. Whatever you need, I'll make sure you get it," Fury said, standing in the doorway. I wondered how he could walk so silently in those steel-toe boots.
"Agent Barton told me about your little declaration you made in the van. You really think you'll graduate earlier than Tony Stark?" Fury asked stoically, raising an eyebrow as he stared at me.
"I know I can, Uncle Fury," I replied calmly. With the mind All blessed this body with and the Sharingan, that goal was well within my grasp. Fury smiled, as if that was the answer he was hoping for.
"Good. What after?" Fury asked his next question.
"Then I'll go to M.I.T, graduate, invent something amazing, and then make billions of dollars. Then I'll have my parents and my sibling taken care of for the rest of their lives," I replied. That was my plan, but I also had a bigger vision in mind. I wanted to use the money to start my own hidden village in this world, making it a safe haven for mutant kind or anyone trying to escape danger. Maybe Fury would be open to something like that, well, maybe not the child soldiers part, but I wouldn't allow that to happen.
"Then I'll support you in any way I can. Who knows, maybe your company's first contract will be with S.H.I.E.L.D. The next time I come by, I'll bring you some science and technology books that should help you out," said Fury, before leaving the doorway. I went to my bed and laid down, feeling excited about my future plans.
"Hello, New York," I said quietly as I closed my eyes to think. In a few short minutes, I was asleep, ready to embark on the journey that awaited me in this city of endless possibilities.
A few hours later, Ogun found himself sitting in one of his many safe houses in New York. He had familiarized himself with his new limbs, although it still felt strange to have cold metal touching his skin. The lack of sleep had left him feeling weary, and his dreams were haunted by the snake man and the atrocities he had committed. Revenge consumed his thoughts, and he believed that Khalid held the key to achieving it.
Suddenly, a knock on the door interrupted Ogun's thoughts. He had been waiting for this moment for the past few hours. He quickly got up and walked to the door, opening it to find Nick Fury standing there with a scowl on his face.
"Come in, Nicholas. We have much to discuss," Ogun said in a polite tone.
"You have one minute before I have every inch of the building swarming with agents," Fury said roughly as he walked past Ogun. For the next hour, Ogun explained what had happened in Japan, who he had met, and the events that had unfolded. He chose to leave out the part about the X-Men out of respect for Charles.
"So you're telling me that there are Japanese men running around who can summon snakes, act like squid vampires, and withstand bullets as if they were being hit with cotton? Am I hearing you right?" Fury asked in disbelief. Ogun could see the worry in the man's eyes. Ogun simply nodded.
"Not only are they enhanced individuals, but one of them bested you, arguably one of the world's best fighters, in a fight, taking your leg and arm," Fury stated again.
"Orochimaru," Ogun said ominously. Fury fell silent for a moment.
"Will you be willing to meet with one of my sketch artists?" asked Fury. This caused Ogun to raise an eyebrow at the eyepatch-wearing man. "Oh, don't look at me like that. I need to put my agents on alert. I want them to observe and record. Avoid confrontation with the man. The only person who could possibly beat him is Agent Barton, and I have my doubts about that as well," Fury explained.
"I would give a 'flee on sight' order if I were you. The man knew I was following him and he waited for me. He will be able to tell if people are watching him. Besides, he's been in hiding since then. I've had my people looking into him. I'll fax you a copy of the sketch I had made already," replied Ogun. Fury nodded but didn't speak, appearing to be formulating a plan.
"I would also like to finish young Coulson's training," Ogun said quietly. It was Fury's turn to raise his eyebrow.
"With all that's going on, you still want to train the kid?" asked Fury.
"As much as I hate to admit this, I have grown attached to the child. He needs to be able to defend himself against threats such as these," Ogun explained. Fury sighed while rubbing his temples.
"I'll have to ask Coulson, but only after you send me the sketch and a report about what happened in Japan," Fury said, getting up. "I'll give you two days."
Fury walked out without waiting for a response. Ogun scowled at being ordered around but let it go. He was saving his rage and hate for one person and one person only right now. For now, he would wait for Fury's reply and continue to focus on his mission of revenge.
