41.

After a long journey back from Afghanistan, Kai, Tony, and Yinsen who was currently illegally in the United States got into a car which was already prepared at the airport by Nathan. They headed toward the Stark Mansion in Malibu.

Despite Yinsen's warnings, Tony insisted he could handle his medical issues himself. Kai, indifferent to Tony's condition, sat quietly, focused on the game on his phone. His mind was solely on acquiring Stark Industries' weapons division and exiting this entanglement.

The car sped along the coastal highway, the scenery a blur as they drove. Kai's thoughts drifted to the legal documents already prepared by his lawyers. All he needed was Tony's signature to secure control.

Unlike his brutal takeover of Fisk's operations, he had to navigate this acquisition within the bounds of legality. Killing his way into Tony's business wasn't an option; it required a more strategic approach.

Nathan had been a constant thorn in his side, nagging about the organization's dwindling funds ever since Kai took over and dismantled the majority of Fisk's illegal operations. Acquiring Stark's weapons division would solve their financial woes and give him the leverage needed to silence Nathan's incessant complaints.

Arriving at the Stark Mansion, Tony exited the car first, followed by Yinsen and then Kai. Nathan greeted them at the door, his expression a mix of relief and frustration. He quickly pulled Kai aside.

"Sir, you couldn't even let me have a single day off?" Nathan hissed, his voice low.

Kai shot him a cold glance. "Stop complaining... I have solved the problem you've been nagging to me from day 1, so what more could you ask for?

Nathan's eyes widened. "You were really serious about that, sir? I don't think it's going to be that easy?"

Kai smirked. "All I need is Tony's signature, right? And the rest I am sure you'll handle it."

Nathan slumped his shoulder just thinking about the amount of paperwork that would be needed for the transfer alone and not to mention, keeping everyone on board with the changes and shift was a whole another challenge.

But he couldn't help but admit that this would very well give them the funds to run their operation, which he honestly wasn't sure of what even the 'operation' was.

Inside the mansion, Tony was already at his workstation, examining the makeshift electromagnet in his chest that Yinsen had installed to keep the shrapnel from reaching his heart.

"I need to upgrade this," Tony muttered, more to himself than anyone else. "Something more powerful and sustainable."

Yinsen watched with concern. "Tony, you need proper medical attention. This is beyond dangerous."

Tony waved him off. "I'll be fine. I just need some parts and a little time."

Kai approached, his eyes scanning the array of high-tech equipment in the workshop. "Impressive setup, Stark. But we have some business to finalize."

Tony looked up, a flicker of irritation crossing his face. "What now?"

Kai handed him the stack of documents. "Just some paperwork to transfer control of your weapons division to me. Standard procedure."

Tony took the papers, flipping through them quickly. "Fine, I'll have my lawyers look into it. In the meantime, go ahead and enjoy L.A. Go party, get some girls, or just do whatever that you do."

Kai shrugged turning towards Nathan, "That's fine by me. Nathan would be here on my behalf so do what you have to do."

As he was walking away he noticed three people running in, people he correctly assumed to be, Pepper Potts, the assistant, Obadiah Stane, Tony's father's old partner, and James "Rhodey" Rhodes, Tony's best friend and military liaison.

Pepper Potts was a striking woman with strawberry blonde hair neatly tied back into a ponytail. Her business attire was impeccable, a tailored suit that emphasized her professionalism. Her eyes, though filled with concern, held a sharp intelligence that made it clear she was more than just an assistant. She quickly rushed to Tony's side, her voice tinged with worry.

"Tony! Are you alright? We've been worried sick!"

Obadiah Stane followed close behind. His tall, imposing figure commanded attention. With a bald head and a neatly trimmed beard, he exuded an air of authority and experience. His tailored suit and confident stride spoke of years spent navigating the complexities of the business world. His eyes, however, held a glint of something more—an ambition that went beyond mere concern for Tony's well-being.

"Tony, it's good to see you back," Stane said, his voice booming with a mix of relief and something harder to pinpoint.

James Rhodes, or Rhodey, was the last to enter. His military uniform was pristine, a testament to his dedication and discipline. His dark skin and close-cropped hair added to his authoritative presence, as he stared at Kai, Nathan, and Yinsen with a suspicious look but his eyes softened as they fell on Tony. He was more than a soldier; he was a friend who had seen Tony at his best and worst.

Tony waved them off, clearly frustrated with the fuss. "I'm fine, really. Just need to upgrade this," he said, pointing to the makeshift electromagnet in his chest.

"What the hell is that..." Potts shrieked at the hole in his chest as Tony began explaining to them what had occured.

Kai watched the interaction with mild interest. He turned to Nathan and gestured for them to leave. "Give them some space," he said, his tone dismissive.

As they exited, Nathan couldn't help but voice his concerns. "Sir, with Stane involved, this might get more complicated than we anticipated."

Kai smirked, his confidence unshaken. "Let them play their part. Our focus is on the weapons division. Once we have control, everything else will fall into place. As for what happens to Tony why should I care?"

Nathan glanced at Kai, not sure whether to be relieved that he was still his cold self or to be surprised, after all, with Magneto's death, Kai's actions had been more relaxed and more human. Shaking his head, knowing what he knew about Stane he asked, "Sir, are you sure we shouldn't speak on this matter with Mr. Stark? After all, he might be a hindrance to your plan if he captures or kills him before the deal is through."

Kai rolled his eyes, "Just keep an eye on them then. But that'd be about it."

As they walked away, the sounds of the reunion behind them grew fainter.

"Book me an immediate flight to San Fransico..." Kai said to Nathan who couldn't help but look surprised, 

"San Fransico, sir?" Nathan asked, "I figured you'd be heading to New York... is there something else you require?"

"Not much, just send Natalie there as well." Kai said, "I've got a valet to see about."