Chapter 56: The Punisher

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Nick Fury knew that Tony Stark handing over the Iron Monger armor was a way of repaying a favor. While Fury had his eyes on it, Link's role was far too valuable, so he sent Phil Coulson to talk things over with him.

"This is the first time I've come to your place since you moved in. Those paintings look pretty nice," Coulson said as he arrived during the day.

Link chuckled, replying, "You could have come by in the evening. Jessica already knows about my work. That night, I was in such a hurry, carrying a large box out."

"No issues with that?" Coulson asked.

"None at all. She's quite understanding." Link handed Coulson a glass of bourbon and a cigar. Although Coulson didn't typically smoke, he could appreciate the taste without inhaling.

The two sat on the rooftop, soaking up the sun. Coulson eventually brought up the topic, "What do you think we should do with the Iron Monger?"

"That's up to you guys. I don't need it," Link said casually. "But I could use some gear. If we're going to have more operations in the future, having proper equipment on hand would make things a lot easier."

Coulson nodded. "Your accuracy with firearms and throwing knives is exceptional. It makes sense to have equipment that complements your skills. I'll talk to the gear department."

"If you don't plan to use the suit, S.H.I.E.L.D. will just assign it to someone else."

"You'd be a good fit for it, actually. You're always in the field, and it wouldn't hurt to have that extra protection. Besides, Fury seems to trust you more than most. You might need to modify the suit to fit you, though."

"S.H.I.E.L.D. has the tech for that," Coulson replied confidently. "We'll just need to get Stark's help with the power source, and that's where you'll probably need to step in."

"No problem!" Link raised his glass in agreement.

…

A week later, Coulson delivered a special vehicle to Link — a Chevy Suburban, modified for field operations. With three of his four parking spots now filled, Link inspected the new addition.

"This vehicle has enhanced performance and advanced bulletproofing. The front cabin is fairly standard, but the rear has been modified into a mobile armory," Coulson explained.

Link tried on a tactical suit that came with it, an upgraded version of Hawkeye's gear, and examined the various weapons and tools inside.

"This suit is made from highly durable material, and while its protection is average, it's designed to accommodate your weaponry and mobility. We've also included a tactical vest and extra knife holsters. Our tech team even made a few extra throwing knife holders just for you."

Link was pleased with the setup. Though it lacked the sophistication of nanotech suits or vibranium enhancements, it was a solid start for the time being. With his powers, it would take more than just bullets to bring him down.

But life wasn't about to calm down. Wilson Fisk had encountered a new problem in Hell's Kitchen. A lone vigilante with military-grade weapons was attacking gang members, disrupting the area's fragile peace.

Even though Fisk had tried to maintain control, the fear of being gunned down at any moment had the criminals on edge.

"Link, what's your take on this?" Fisk asked. "With your understanding of psychology, I'm sure you can offer some insight."

"Of course!" Link responded. "This person is clearly driven by revenge, probably after losing someone dear. His military skills indicate a background in the armed forces, and it seems like his loved one was killed by gang members."

Fisk agreed but sighed in frustration. "I've lost control over the gangs. They're terrified, and it's affecting the entire neighborhood. I have to stop him."

"But finding him has been difficult. He targets all gang members indiscriminately, without a specific pattern."

Link considered for a moment and asked, "What's the FBI's stance on this? This seems beyond what the NYPD can handle."

"They're investigating, but haven't found much. They're also using this opportunity to try and gain leverage over me. They want something in return."

Link nodded. It was no secret that the FBI knew about Fisk's shady dealings. But Fisk had been working to clean up his public image, involving himself in charity and distancing himself from his criminal past. He still had influence in the underground world, though, and the FBI likely wanted some of the dirt he held on politicians and businesspeople.

"I'll look into it and get back to you," Link said. "In the meantime, keep a lid on things as best you can."

"Thanks, I owe you one," Fisk said gratefully.

Leaving Fisk, Link drove straight to Hell's Kitchen. He didn't need to involve Coulson in this; he already knew who was behind the attacks. It had to be Frank Castle, also known as the Punisher.

Finding Castle wasn't hard for Link. He tapped into Hell's Kitchen's network, and soon enough, he tracked down Castle, who was gearing up for his next assault.

Link approached cautiously. Castle was on a rooftop, his usual haunt, where few people would bother him.

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(End of Chapter)