35.

Kai's Domain Expansion was akin to Sukuna's Malevolent Shrine, a vast and terrifying space where his power was absolute. The incomplete domain he had previously encountered in his mind had given him invaluable insights into its structure and potential. Now, he was much closer to mastering it.

In its full form, Kai's domain was a sprawling, eerie landscape filled with dark, twisted architecture reminiscent of an ancient shrine. The air within the domain was heavy with cursed energy, making it difficult for anyone but Kai to move freely. Every inch of the domain was under his control, allowing him to manipulate the environment and unleash devastating attacks with precision.

The key to his Domain Expansion lay in his deep connection with his brother's vengeful spirit. The spirit's rage and sorrow fueled the cursed energy that powered the domain, creating an environment where Kai's attacks were unavoidable and his defense impenetrable.

Although not perfect as of yet, he knew he could master it sooner or later when compared to any of his other techniques, he just needed to adjust his parameters for his Domain more accurately with enough precision to make it the perfect death move.

*Ring*

Kai's attention shifted toward the ringing phone in his pocket as he stepped back from the edge of the rooftop. He pulled out the device and glanced at the caller ID, recognizing the number as one of the secure lines Nathan had set up for emergencies.

"If you are calling about the training room, we need to remodel it again."

"What? No- sir, It's the news regarding Code Egomaniac. Tony Stark has been kidnapped."

"Ah! I see..." Kai's smirk widened as he thought about how he could use this to his advantage, "It was about time..."

"Sir?"

"Nothing, make sure you keep me posted on any new details," Kai said hanging up the phone as he headed to his office.

The vengeful spirit following him slowly merged into his shadow as Kai got lost in his own train of thought, Tony Stark getting kidnapped was a sign that the whole event was finally starting but unlike the movies which were bound by copyrights this world was filled to the brim with heroes and villains alike.

So he had to tread carefully on how the story would follow and use the events to his advantage.

As Kai entered his office, he couldn't help but feel a thrill of anticipation. Tony Stark's kidnapping was a pivotal moment, one that could shift the balance of power in this world teeming with extraordinary beings. He knew he had to act strategically to leverage this situation for his benefit.

He sat at his desk, the vengeful spirit's presence a constant, comforting weight in his shadow. Kai's eyes fell on the file Nathan had left regarding his potential secretary. He picked it up absentmindedly, skimming through the details while his mind continued to churn through the implications of Stark's disappearance.

The file contained information about a young woman named Natalie Rushman. Kai read through her qualifications, noting how they were tailored to appeal to his specific needs:

Combat Training: Extensive martial arts and weapons training, making her more than capable of defending herself and handling dangerous situations.

Academic Background: Holds a BA in Criminal Justice and an MA in International Relations from the University of Southern California, completed in 2005 and 2007, respectively.

Professional Experience: Worked in private security firms across Europe and Asia, providing high-level protection and intelligence gathering.

Multilingual Skills: Fluent in Russian, French, Japanese, and Mandarin, which would be invaluable in international dealings.

Corporate Experience: Formerly employed at various multinational corporations in roles requiring discretion and a keen understanding of corporate security and operations.

"Natalie Rushman, huh?" Kai raised an eyebrow as he couldn't help but laugh out loud, "Hahaha... to think I would be fortunate enough to encounter not one but two good news in a row."

Kai threw the report back onto his desk, as he had long realized the play being made. Natalie Rushman wasn't just a competent candidate; she was a plant, someone meant to infiltrate his operations or to be more specific, someone meant to test the waters with how he performed.

"Interesting," he mused, his smirk never fading. "Let's see what you have in store for me, Miss 'Rushman'."

He pressed a button on his intercom, summoning Nathan. Within moments, Nathan entered the office, his expression serious.

"Sir?"

"I want you to arrange a meeting with our new candidate, Natalie Rushman. Bring her in for an interview," Kai instructed, his tone casual yet laced with the undertone of a strategist ready to test his opponent.

"Yes, sir," Nathan responded, "I think you know why I liked her so much enough to choose her out of thousands of candidates. She is great, isn't she?"

"Of course she is." Kai let out a smile, his eyes narrowing slightly as he leaned back in his chair. "That's what makes her so interesting. Arrange the meeting, Nathan."

Nathan nodded and left the room, leaving Kai alone with his thoughts once more.

A few hours later, Nathan returned, escorting a poised and confident Natalie Rushman into the office. She walked with the grace and precision of someone used to high-stakes environments, her eyes sharp and assessing as she took in the room.

Her beauty was striking—long, auburn hair cascading in waves around her shoulders, framing a face that was both alluring and intimidating. Her eyes, a piercing green, seemed to see right through him, assessing and calculating every detail.

Natalie wore a sleek, form-fitting suit that highlighted her athletic build, exuding both professionalism and subtle seduction. Her movements were fluid and purposeful, each step a silent testament to her training and control. As she approached, she offered Kai a seductive yet shy smile, a contrast that intrigued him.

"Mr. Kai," she greeted, extending her hand with a professional, yet inviting, smile. Her voice was smooth and confident, with a hint of warmth that suggested she was more than just a pretty face.

Kai stood, accepting her handshake with a firm grip. Her touch was cool and steady, a clear indication of her composure. "Miss Rushman, thank you for coming. Please, have a seat."

As Natalie settled into the chair opposite his desk, Kai took a moment to study her. Her beauty was undeniable, but it was the intelligence and confidence in her eyes that truly captivated him. She was exactly as the file described—polished, composed, and undeniably competent. But there was something else in her eyes, a hint of calculation that told him she was more than just a secretary.

"I've reviewed your impressive resume," Kai began, leaning back in his chair. "You have quite the background in both security and intelligence. What made you decide to apply for a position here?"

Natalie smiled, her expression unwavering. "I've always been drawn to challenging environments, Mr. Kai. Your organization is known for its cutting-edge work and dynamic atmosphere. I believe my skills and experience would be a valuable asset to your team."

Kai nonchalantly shook his head, "Well that was bullshit..."