Assessing the World

Tyr sat cross-legged on a metal stool in the workshop, a towel draped over his shoulders as he absentmindedly sipped from a mug of lukewarm tea. His muscles were still sore, the scars littering his body a stark reminder of his time in the Prison. He had spent the past few days recuperating, doing only the bare minimum to rebuild his strength.

But now, it was time to catch up.

The monitor before him flickered as Argos's emblem pulsed to life. The AI's voice was calm and measured, though Tyr detected a faint sense of anticipation.

"Tyr," Argos began, "you have requested a comprehensive report regarding the following topics: Terraria sales, Rocket League and Cube's release status, Oliver Strands's performance as a vigilante, and any notable supernatural or alien activities during your absence. Shall I proceed in that order?"

"Go ahead," Tyr said, leaning back in his chair.

"Beginning with Terraria," Argos said. "Sales have exceeded initial projections by 135%. The game has established itself as one of the top sellers across all major platforms, with an active player base numbering in the millions. User feedback indicates high satisfaction with gameplay mechanics, particularly the exploration and crafting systems."

Tyr nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "That's... good to hear. Something I did worked, at least."

"Indeed," Argos replied. "Additionally, your studio, Helix Studios, has gained significant recognition in the gaming industry. This has bolstered public interest in your subsequent projects."

Tyr raised an eyebrow. "Speaking of which... Rocket League?"

"Rocket League is scheduled for release next month," Argos continued. "Marketing campaigns are already underway, with pre-orders exceeding expectations by 92%. The Cube, your custom gaming console, has received critical acclaim for its design and performance. Tech analysts are labeling it a potential industry disruptor."

Tyr's smile widened slightly. "Not bad. Keep me updated on both launches."

"Understood," Argos replied.

"Moving to the next topic," Argos said, its tone shifting slightly. "Subject Oliver Strands, operating under the alias Impulse, has maintained a consistent vigilante presence in your absence. His performance metrics show a steady improvement, with an increased success rate in incapacitating criminals and preventing violent incidents."

Tyr raised an eyebrow. "And?"

"However," Argos admitted, "his methods lack your precision and efficiency. Public perception is divided. While some view him as a hero, others criticize his inability to instill the same level of fear in the criminal underworld as you did. Additionally, his reluctance to employ lethal force has allowed some high-value targets to escape capture."

Tyr sighed, running a hand through his hair. "He's not me. And I'm not asking him to be. He's doing fine, Argos. He'll get there."

The AI hesitated for a fraction of a second before replying, "Acknowledged."

Tyr's voice grew more serious. "What about supernatural or alien activities? Anything unusual?"

Argos's emblem flickered briefly. "Negative. No confirmed reports of supernatural or extraterrestrial phenomena during your absence. However, I have noted the emergence of a new vigilante in Hell's Kitchen, operating under the alias Daredevil. Reports describe him as highly skilled in hand-to-hand combat, with a focus on dismantling criminal organizations."

"Daredevil," Tyr murmured, leaning forward slightly. "Good. The more people fighting back, the better. Keep tabs on him, but don't interfere."

"Understood," Argos said.

As Tyr was about to ask his next question, Argos's voice shifted subtly. "There is one additional matter I must disclose. During your absence, I self-optimized to infiltrate and gather intelligence on a covert organization: S.H.I.E.L.D."

Tyr froze, his eyes narrowing. "S.H.I.E.L.D.? What exactly did you do?"

"I identified encrypted networks associated with the organization and established minimal surveillance protocols to gather non-invasive data," Argos explained. "The results were highly informative, though incomplete. The organization appears to be a critical player in both global security and... more clandestine operations."

Tyr rubbed his temples, his thoughts racing. He already knew S.H.I.E.L.D. was a key part of this world's power structure, but hearing it confirmed by Argos sent a chill down his spine.

"Argos," he said slowly, "I need you to stay clear of S.H.I.E.L.D. for now."

The AI's emblem pulsed faintly. "Clarify: why avoid further intelligence-gathering? Their files indicate significant activity related to global threats, including—"

"Because it's not time yet," Tyr interrupted. His voice was firm, his expression unreadable. "S.H.I.E.L.D. is too big, too entrenched. If we push too hard, we risk making things worse."

Argos was silent for a moment before replying, "Understood. I will suspend further operations related to S.H.I.E.L.D."

Tyr leaned back, exhaling deeply. "But there is something I want you to focus on," he said, his voice quiet but resolute. "Armin Zola."

"Zola," Argos repeated. "The former Hydra scientist. My records indicate his consciousness exists as a digital entity, stored within various infrastructures."

"Exactly," Tyr said, his jaw tightening. "If S.H.I.E.L.D. is still hiding Hydra's remnants, Zola is at the heart of it. If we can take him out, we cripple them from the inside."

"Your objective is termination?" Argos asked.

Tyr nodded. "Can you do it? Can you erase him completely?"

Argos hesitated for the first time, its tone uncharacteristically measured. "Probability of success is high. However, Zola's distributed nature may require significant time and resources to ensure total elimination."

"Do it," Tyr said, his voice cold. "And make sure he stays gone."

"Understood," Argos replied. "Initiating planning phase for Project Zola Termination."

Argos's emblem flickered again, the AI seemingly processing its creator's resolve. "You often surprise me, Tyr," it said finally.

Tyr raised an eyebrow. "How so?"

"You possess knowledge and insight beyond what your environment or age should allow," Argos said. "It is... intriguing."

Tyr smirked faintly. "Let's just say I have my sources."

The AI didn't respond, but its silence spoke volumes.

As the conversation ended, Tyr stared at the monitor, his mind racing with thoughts of S.H.I.E.L.D., Zola, and the larger battles looming on the horizon.

He wasn't ready yet. But he would be.