Chapter 97: Super Soldier Hill Agent, An Increasingly Evil Devil’s Deal

Ethan Hayes could tell that Jean Grey had managed to seal away the painful memories in her heart—a demonstration of her formidable telepathic ability. She had not abandoned her humanity but had used her mental strength to set aside her pain temporarily, a complex feat requiring remarkable skill.

They talked and laughed like old friends. To Jean, it felt as though they had known each other for years. Ethan's vast knowledge of the Marvel universe, combined with his enhanced mind and genetic modifications, allowed him to understand and connect with others deeply. This connection was more than just words; it was a higher-level understanding, a resonance of souls.

Jean finally broke the silence. "You're right. Although we see things differently, we stand at the same height, and that's why we understand each other so well." She looked at him, smiling. "But you do seem to have a taste for certain… earthly pleasures, like women."

Ethan shrugged. "I may have the power of a god, but I still have a human heart. We are flesh and blood; it's important to remember where we came from."

Jean nodded thoughtfully. "Thank you, Ethan. I feel like I've gone through a spiritual transformation."

"In my homeland, we say that finding someone who truly understands you is one of life's greatest fortunes," Ethan replied, smiling.

As they shared this understanding, Ethan felt the true depth of his psychic abilities. His mental skills, particularly in communication and connection, had reached a new level, granting him insights even beyond what he had learned from Professor X.

The evening settled in, and Ethan decided not to stay at the villa. He valued his connection with Jean but sensed that becoming too attached might bring unforeseen complications.

Later, in the Osborn lab, he observed Hill through the stabilizer chamber, impressed by her willingness to undergo the genetic transformation. Gene injections came with great risk, but Hill had agreed without hesitation, driven by her mission and ambition.

"Is she really trying to please you?" Raven asked, noting Hill's dedication. "It's bold of her, I'll admit. After the injection, she's practically on par with Captain Steve."

Ethan chuckled. "A perfect agent. If she's here to observe me, she's well-equipped."

Raven smirked. "I'd worry if I were you. She's not the type to make a careless move."

Ethan nodded. He saw Hill as more than just a pawn of S.H.I.E.L.D.; she was a formidable agent with her own ambitions. With a blend of cunning and charm, Hill knew how to lower her target's defenses to get what she wanted.

The stabilizer finally opened, and Hill stepped out, now possessing the enhanced physical abilities of a super-soldier. She dressed swiftly, and Raven observed her with a hint of admiration. Hill's new strength, combined with her innate poise, made her a formidable presence.

"So, this is the power of the super-soldier serum," Hill said, her voice betraying her astonishment. "How did you achieve such a flawless formula?"

"Genes are our flagship product; we're professionals," Ethan replied with a sly smile.

Hill composed herself, maintaining a calm demeanor. "We at S.H.I.E.L.D. are willing to pay well for the Osborn Group's transformation services. But we would like exclusive access."

Raven's smile faded as she responded, "Exclusive? You know that's not possible."

Hill's gaze was unyielding. "S.H.I.E.L.D. has resources that far surpass any amount of money."

"For me, money is enough," Ethan said, subtly dismissing Hill's attempts to negotiate.

With a forced smile, Hill conceded. She knew that gaining his cooperation wouldn't be easy, but she was willing to play the game. This was more than a transaction; she had to extract a deeper commitment from him.

Later that evening, Ethan relaxed in his Central Park villa, enjoying a rare moment of quiet. Gwen was resting elsewhere, and Jean Grey had ventured out to witness the world's harsh realities, seeking a fresh perspective.

A knock at the door drew his attention. Hill stood outside, composed and professional, adjusting her coat. Her resolve was evident—she was here for more than just a deal.

The door opened without Ethan moving a muscle, a subtle display of his telekinetic power that piqued Hill's interest.

"Hill, welcome," he greeted her, offering a glass of red wine.

Hill studied him for a moment, momentarily disarmed by the charming figure before her—a striking contrast to the intimidating reputation of the Ice Demon.

"Nice wine," she remarked, taking a sip.

"It's Romanee-Conti. I'm no expert, but it's the best I've ever tasted," Ethan replied, smiling.

Hill's eyes held a steady gaze. "You know why I'm here."

"If it's about the super-soldier serum, Raven can help you with that."

"No," Hill said, her voice low and deliberate. "I'm talking about a devil's deal."

With that, she slowly opened her coat, revealing a bold, leopard-print outfit beneath, her expression challenging as she met his gaze.

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