Chapter 19: Revelations

 Chapter 19: Revelations.

So last chapter was somewhat controversial to some, depending on the site. Hopefully now that the Wakanda arc is finished, we can just let that go and concentrate on complaining about this chapter instead.

Shit happens, as normally. And we get to see quite a lot of people that reviewers have wondered about over the events of previous chapters.

Guess Iron Man wouldn't have been the first hero of the modern age in this world, huh?

This chapter has a lewd on Questionable Questing, decided not to post it everywhere, both because of rules, and majority aren't reading this for the lewds.

Anyway as usual, I don't own Marvel, the Avengers, X-Men or anything from Disney and etc, etc.

Hope you enjoy.

＊＊＊

Undisclosed location, Midwest.

Justin frowned as he saw the caller ID, "Alright, I have to take this, keep it down for a minute." He cautioned, waiting for his people to follow through on his request, before he hit answer.

"Fury, this better not be another call for me to fix your problems because you failed to do your job." He spat out caustically.

He was in no mood for any more games from SHIELD. With everything he was already doing, they should pick up some of the slack.

Like say for example; they could try to not lose several nuclear submarines within thirty minutes.

Surely someone at SHIELD or HYDRA had the job to solely keep an eye on that shit?

Or they could have overridden military bureaucracy and stopped them from skimping on air defense around Wakanda - because the super soldiers kept sneaking out and destroying it.

The Vibranium would have been enough of a get that even if the US army lost every single land to air battery they held - they'd still come out on top financially by a landslide.

Now, they faced a slog, whoever had taken over the Iliad and those subs, had not only fired the nuclear missiles, but had somehow made them dirtier, compounding the issue.

Modern nukes would kill everyone in the vicinity and smash through the infrastructure, but the radiation wouldn't be the post apocalyptic nightmare that such a thought incited.

Except whatever force managed to sneak this through under the noses of everyone, from Justin, to SHIELD, to the governments, to even the fucking Mandarin - had of course somehow managed to make them dirty bombs.

So naturally Justin suspected magic had a hand in it. Taking over nuclear submarines that quickly and efficiently was one thing. Somehow having the launch codes or getting them from the few people that did - was theoretically possible - with the right people or resources.

Hell, give him some planning time and he could do it - easy.

Managing in less than thirty minutes, to turn those nukes into dirty ones, and still launch them on time, all under water, without anyone aware of anything going on - was literally impossible.

Unless magic was involved.

"Hammer, Bolivar Trask, where is he?" Fury said promptly, not even bothering to pay lip service to the idea he was going to entertain Justin's comments.

Justin sighed, leaning back against the wall, cell phone to his ear, as he overlooked the tableau in front of him. "Last I heard, he was in Washington, creating a vast amount of headaches for me. Why?"

There was silence on the other line for several moments, "Don't play games with me, Hammer, do you have him!?" Fury asked snappishly, "He pulled the rails off your mutant hugging endeavors and the day after - he goes missing, it's not hard to figure out." His voice hardened, snapping out like steel jaws as he growled out, "He was in protective custody of SHIELD agents, where are my agents, Hammer…?"

Justin chuckled dryly, eyes flashing with satisfaction, as he overlooked the metal chair bolted to the floor, the insensinate and bloody Bolivar Trask tied to it. "One little politician has hardly stopped the movement, Fury, although I find it interesting that this task has fallen to you? A rookie congressman more important to SHIELD than someone capable of nuking not only Wakanda, but thousands of US servicemen?"

He didn't bother to mention the agents. They were probably HYDRA anyway, not a great loss.

The fact of the matter was clear. Fury was on his way out. Not even Justin could help that now. The recent intelligence failures were of an epic proportion that no amount of favors or wishes could scrub away.

Fury was only still the head of SHIELD because the World Security Council couldn't agree on a successor. This time Justin wasn't inclined to help him out, the failure was just too damn big, and it would cost him too much just to ensure Fury was around to fuck up more.

It had only been a day and a half give or take a few hours, they'd probably have him out by the weekend for the purpose to be seen doing something to the member nations who financed SHIELD. Fury's preferred successors, Coulson and Hill, were out of the running due to their connection to the man.

Which all made it that much odder that the man was focusing on Trask of all people. "Did I hit a nerve, former director?" Justin said with only a hint of mocking in his tone when no answer was immediately forthcoming.

Only through plenty of practice over the last two years, did he manage to keep his anger in check, hiding it through a thin veneer of disdain and mockery.

He couldn't help but feel Wakanda was somewhat of a personal failure of his. Even as he knew that for all of his power - he still had no idea who was responsible.

He did blame Fury, because these kinds of things were his job. And he wasted his time following him and Stark around, and now apparently Trask. Personal projects that dealt with his pride, instead of what was best for the world, in Justin's opinion.

"As long as I still have my post, I will do my job, Hammer. You may be on the council, but it doesn't put you above the law." Fury said slowly, with the same kind of calm forcefulness he was known for.

He was a lot better than Justin at hiding his anger, Justin thought with some amusement. "Doesn't it though?" He answered back, just messing with him at this point.

"Hammer… This isn't the stage to start playing at being a comedian, you're still not Tony Stark." Fury shot back, the other man doing him the favor of not hiding his distaste.

Heh, not going to go into a rage at a comparison, Fury, you've lost your touch - why not send Natashalie again? Seems to be your go to… Justin thought, before replying, "Whatever you say, former Director Fury… I am still way too busy to bother with the tiny congressman, whatever that is about." Justin lied easily, moving away from the wall, stepping up to the tied up and gagged man. "If you need any references for your next job, don't call." And without further ado, he hung up.

"Was that wise… Sir." Elena asked politely, "Tied to the structure of SHIELD he is your subordinate, loose, he is possibly an enemy."

Justin scoffed, putting his phone away, "He was always going to be an enemy. Fury is the type to execute Jesus because he'd upend the status quo too much if he came back. I've only gotten started, he was always going to be a pain in my ass."

At the level Justin was operating at now, Fury wasn't much of a threat - especially with less resources, for all that it would make him harder to find. And before he became one, he'd be taken care of.

If anything had been made clear lately, it was the fact that he couldn't keep leaving enemies at his back, no matter how small.

It would be time to clean house, while solidifying his hold on the world.

Elena straightened, a hard look coming to her eyes, "Want me to ensure he is… Taken care of?" She asked, sounding almost eager.

If she was a puppy he could imagine a tail wagging right now, just begging for him to let her off the leash.

Justin eyed her thoughtfully, "Nothing for now." He murmured, watching her go back to Trask, a harsh slap resounding in the empty warehouse, as she woke Trask up the expedient way, to continue their 'discussion'.

He was… Beginning to wonder.

She'd been supernaturally skilled in switching from a sales rep position to his personal assistant. And he'd given her a lot of leeway for her breadth of knowledge. Too much leeway really, trusting in Domino's powers to an extent that might have been excessive.

Something to look out for in the future.

Being an extremely skilled interrogator and a torture expert… Stretched everything beyond belief in regards to Elena. Advocating for, and almost sounding like she was volunteering - for the task of assassinating the Director of SHIELD, was just…

He had to face the possibility he'd hired a Black Widow or an equivalent. Someone who'd gotten past Domino's screening, and had been slavishly loyal, which just made him scratch his head at the whole situation.

He sighed, ignoring Trasks screams as he once again attempted to avoid revealing his backers, the man desperately wanted to lose his other testicle it seemed. It was possible he simply didn't know, but they'd find out…

He really hoped the 'prairie oyster' Elena fried and then sat down to eat in front of Trask - had all been a psychological ploy, and that she hadn't actually…

He shuddered, walking over to where Domino stood, her power as always the extra ingredient involved in making everything go as planned. She'd been able to tell Elena exactly where to do damage for the 'best' effect. Or the luckiest set of circumstances to get him to talk.

He lowered his voice, as he came to stand next to her, "Your power… It's not seeing a threat from Elena?" He asked, sliding his eyes to his personal assistant, admiring her backside even as she put some force into her cheerful interrogation, the crack of a bone heard soon after, followed by an inhuman screech.

Domino shook her head, "Not even a little, as far as I can tell she has no bad intentions at all, probably how she slipped through…" She grimaced slightly, "Sorry boss." She allowed, looking slightly guilty.

Justin shook his head, "You're not omnipotent, If she has no ill will, there was nothing you could sniff out." He tilted his head slightly in Elena's direction, as she sadistically broke Bolivar Trask down in front of them. Neither of them flinched at the screaming and begging, "You noticed it too then." He murmured.

Domino gave him a dry look, her face slightly green, "Hard not to notice after all this. I don't care how competitive the sales business is - this isn't part of their training. That whole thing with eating a bull's ball in front of him after cutting his off…"

Justin let out a breath of relief, "So it was a bull's testicle after all." Thank god… Although that's a pretty small bull then, all things considered…

Domino glanced at him, her grimace deepening, "I don't know, but that's what I'm telling myself, please don't ruin it."

They stood in silence, contemplating where and how Elena had even had access to a bull or butcher around here… Before both of them dropped it and moved on.

For their sanity if nothing else.

Justin really had a type it seemed. Scary/crazy women…

"You want me to…" Domino asked reluctantly, fingering one of her guns, her eyes on Elena.

Justin shook his head. "I'll deal with it. Tonight. Keep available just in case."

"Right." Domino said, looking very unenthusiastic.

Justin could understand the feeling, he'd be very upset if he was forced to put Elena down…

He had hope…

She didn't twinge Domino's power. So she hopefully had a good reason for being here.

And she wasn't spying on him, because she'd had access to an incredible amount of illegal dealings of his - and none of it was getting out.

And the legal dealings were almost worse, with how much she knew about the inner workings of his empire.

He watched her work, sighing internally.

At least her being so angry and hateful with Trask for him inconveniencing me, angry enough to blow her cover - was a good sign.

＊＊＊

In the end, Trask broke.

Because the truth was, no matter how some movies may portray it at times about standing up against torture - everyone breaks in the end.

Unfortunately, Trask was backed anonymously for the most part, with funds, assistance and favors. As well, those anonymous supporters fed him help from various politicians - those were not anonymous thankfully.

Justin would now own several Senators, a few more newly elected congressmen - including the newly elected speaker, and the Director of the CIA. So Trask hadn't been entirely useless.

Not that the CIA director would be entirely useful, as like Fury, he'd probably be a casualty of recent events. However he might know more about Trasks backers.

There came a time in someone's life when you just knew you were a supervillain, Justin thought. Arranging the eventual kidnapping of the Director of the CIA, for when he became the former Director, was one such time.

Odds were he had a little more information than Trask did.

"Pity he had no more information on the friends of humanity." He grumbled to Elena and Domino, as they watched Trask recover slightly under the effect of Panacea.

They couldn't have him die quite yet.

"He seemed pretty sure they were a spontaneous group created by his rallying cry." Elena pointed out, rolling her eyes, uncaring about the flecks of blood in her hair.

If anything she seemed supernaturally relaxed, an ease to her body that wasn't there before, like she'd slipped into a better fitting skin.

Domino smirked, "Yes, all spontaneously popping up all over America within a day, truly a miracle worker he is." She played along mockingly, making fun of the man, who for all his obvious intelligence - was an absolute ignoramus.

That press conference, calling attention to him, when Justin hadn't even known who he was. A completely moronic move, for all the headaches it created.

"What they are, is a huge pain in my ass." Justin said, eyeing Trask with distaste, almost wanting to go give him a few licks himself. "You can't use PR to change the minds of hillbilly idiots, they're too busy fucking their cousins to watch the news."

Domino let out a snort, visibly amused, "Say it how you really feel, boss!"

Justin just snorted, refusing to say anything more on the matter.

He'd of course immediately financed a huge media push to fire back at all the stupidity that spilled out due to Trasks words.

Unfortunately he didn't yet control the internet or social media - so it spread everywhere anyway.

Fortunately, it seemed only those already racist, seemed to be picking up on it, everyone else willing to give the benefit of doubt to Hammer industries and the government.

Thanks to his efforts in Africa, the entire leadership, even the tyrants, had loudly and vehemently denied Trasks point of view, expounding on how much Metahumans were doing for their countries.

Considering Africa was the site of three nuclear strikes attributed to Magneto, their denial of such, struck a chord with those more intelligent then the unwashed masses.

Magneto had yet to respond…

Justin really hoped he could talk sense into the man. He'd already talked to Xavier, who'd admitted Magneto had completely gone to ground, fallen out of touch.

So no help would be forthcoming from the X-Men who were turtling up and trying to avoid getting into any situation that could inflame the PR war, Justin couldn't say he was surprised, at all.

Heroes were only ever useful once they hit the endgame, when everything was on fire and someone needed to fight to the death for liberty and justice and all that crock.

Stopping the catastrophe?

That was not hero work.

"Domino, call Magneto's people, tell them we want Phantazia back now, and we're willing to offer them a sweetener…" He eyed Trask, about to sentence him to a very messy end.

Part of him wanted to dose the man with the mind control serum, set him to programming his AI, finally get that off the ground. But even mine controlled… He wasn't sure he could trust any man who'd been involved in the kind of things he'd revealed during his interrogation.

A deal with Magneto would serve better, he'd get Eileen back, so he could figure out what the fuck was going on there - and Magneto might be satisfied with Trask as an offering, and not end up doing something foolish.

Besides… Sunil had been contacted in Cairo by a Metahuman named Forge that had applied for Hammer Industries due to wanting access to their resources. Especially Vibranium.

He might make for a good stand-in to assist with the AI, Justin had not yet had the time to investigate or speak with the man himself what with recent events.

Elena frowned, looking at him curiously, "You don't want me to…?" She asked, before looking between him and Domino, her brow furrowed.

Justin shook his head, "Domino's luck might push this thing through, she'll head this one up." He lied, because he didn't have any better explanation for why he'd delegate this away from his personal assistant.

Elena seemed to accept that explanation, nodding her head thoughtfully.

Justin would need to confront her soon.

Just then, once again, his phone rang. Considering how few people could actually reach him directly like this, he likely couldn't just ignore it.

He pulled his phone out, noting the caller ID, and again, he could hardly refuse to answer. Well he could, but that would be an entirely different kind of hassle.

"Ellis." He said shortly, not at all happy about the fact Trask had seen the president, and Ellis hadn't informed him about his crazy ideas.

It was the one thing the tiny man had said throughout his entire interrogation that had actually discomfited Justin.

The sentinel project.

Ellis had flat out refused to support such a thing through his office, but it didn't mean someone else wasn't supporting it.

And again, he hadn't told Justin.

Trask wasn't a leader in this whole venture. He was the patsy. Someone competent enough he could possibly do it, someone that would take the fall, if it was discovered.

Justin had a feeling that Trask wasn't really supposed to hold that press conference, for all his bluster that it was part of a masterplan.

"Justin, we're going to have to move up the announcement." Ellis said swiftly, not bothering to pussyfoot around.

It was at least a good part of their business relationship, neither man held any illusions about the other, and could just skip past the tedious pleasantries.

Justin grimaced, not at all pleased by further bad news. "By how much, he isn't ready yet…"

He'd also need to work out something with Pierce, before he took that step.

Or he'd have HYDRA assassin's up to his eyebrows.

With whatever the hell was nuking people, HYDRA was a necessary evil at the moment. They were more cooperative than SHIELD for one. Although that might end up meaning the same thing, with Fury gone shortly.

"End of the month, at the latest." Ellis said, sounding stressed, "We need to be seen to be doing something. Your team will give the public the idea that they're protected."

Justin's team already did exist. People knew about them. But there was a vast difference between that, and a team nominally under the government, with the lead figure they had - if they could get it to work.

It was a beacon of hope. Again, if it worked.

"I'll see what I can do, but you owe me again, Ellis…" He said, never hesitant to extract something out of the man, even for something he was going to do anyway, just not so early. "I want you to push the EU, threaten to sink trade deals if my patents don't get internationally recognized as is."

Ellis hesitated, but Justin knew he'd have no choice in the end. That was the problem when you sold out, you couldn't ever stop selling out.

"I can't do anything about China, you know how they are with this stuff." He warned, wavering.

Justin knew all too well. The Chinese were the most resistant to his companies so far. Even though they did accept his arc reactors, for now. Likely only due to not wanting to fall behind the rest of the world while they tried to crack the process.

The EU was refusing to allow his patents to work in the same way as Ellis had pushed through in the states. Because Justin didn't actually reveal the process in his application - because no one was afraid to raid the patent office of any country, so it was hilariously ridiculous to actually hand over any specs.

He was already pushing in through Britain, bypassing a lot of EU regulations in a way to force them to accept it - or face Britain leaving if they were punished for going against the whole.

He'd add the US economy to that pressure if it was what it took.

As for China… He'd have to negotiate with the Mandarin. Something which he was not looking forward to.

"Leave China to me, just push Brussels, get them to accept, add the trade deals of the United States of America to the pressure they're already facing of me pulling Panacea clinics out in protest - and they'll fold." Justin said snappishly, before sighing, pinching the bridge of his nose, "Sorry, Ellis, recent events have not allowed a decent amount of sleep."

As much as he owned the man, plenty of people were capable of fucking you over out of spite, even if it sunk them. He didn't need to aggravate an already tenuous relationship.

Because what President enjoyed knowing they only got to sit in their office because Justin allowed it?

"I know the feeling…" Ellis replied dryly, before letting out a deep sigh, "I'll work on the Europeans, but Justin, we need to get this done by the end of the month."

"End of the month it is." Justin replied, mentally rearranging a lot of plans.

People would have utopia within a decade or two, if they'd just shut up and get out of his way.

"I have to go, I'll talk to you later." Ellis said, Justin murmuring a goodbye, before hanging up, leaning his head back. "Fuck." He swore with feeling.

Just what he needed.

"When it rains it pours." Domino offered supportingly, bumping his shoulder slightly, "You've got this boss, no problem."

"No one's going to get in your way." Elena agreed, the look in her eyes seemed to suggest she'd happily remove such obstacles.

"Thank you for your support." He replied dryly, before he nodded at Trask, "Get him set up for transport."

He had several calls to make, he needed that perfected Extremis/super soldier blend yesterday.

A quick email to Sunil sent through his mind connection to his glasses, ensured he'd divert Frank and Brock to their new assignment as well, they needed to move up the schedule.

He opened his phone, dialing the number he needed, waiting impatiently as he watched Domino and Elena sedate and secure Trask.

"What?" Maya Hansen replied harshly, sounding extremely annoyed to be interrupted.

"Dr. Hansen, we need him ready by the end of the month." Justin said, already internally wincing.

"Is this a practical joke, Mister Hammer? It's not a very funny one." She replied immediately, her voice acidic.

"Timetable has moved up." He said, uncaring about her attitude, he was pretty annoyed with it as well, even if he could see Ellis' point.

The people needed their bread and circuses to get over the fact someone could apparently wipe out New York or Washington whenever they damned pleased. The fact they'd chosen not to, didn't mean they couldn't.

The whole world was painfully aware of that open threat. Especially as no one knew who the hell was threatening them.

As it was, every nuclear submarine in the world was effectively grounded. Not that they could really tell if that was being followed through with to the full extent.

"There are limits to my abilities." Hansen hissed over the line, sounding as angry as he'd ever heard her.

"You have cracked the super soldier serum, correct?" Justin talked over her protests. The benefits of being the boss, was that he could request the impossible whenever he damn well pleased.

Although the blend between the two serums wasn't there yet, having Isaiah Bradley as a test subject, with the likes of Nagel, Hansen and Cho working at it - had provided some results.

"Yes, you know that already." Hansen replied tersely, practically emoting over the phone, why are you wasting my time?

Justin had a time limit now to get things to turn out ideal, and to make an omelet… You had to crack some eggs, "Use the discretionary funds, get some homeless people, make them super, then harvest them until you get the mix right." He paused, thinking it over, "Might as well use up Bradley as well, we have no need for him."

The testing was slow going as they didn't have a large amount of super soldiers to pump full of Extremis, so they had to test small samples in a lab, perfecting the process step by step.

With a few hundred people, they could just blow them up until they found something that worked. Not exactly proper science, but who cared, if it worked.

He'd sacrifice thousands if he could get it to work faster.

Hansen made a pleased noise, "That might give us enough data to succeed." She acknowledged, she hesitated briefly, before powering on, "What about doctor Cho?"

"What about her?" Justin asked warily. What has she done now?

He was well aware that she was behind the Hammer cult slowly growing online.

At least that part of her craziness was at least somewhat amusing. He could get behind people worshiping him.

Hansen sighed, "You've kept her apart from the more… excessive methods so far. Do I sequester her in her lab?"

Justin thought it over, weighing the pros and cons. "Let her see it all. If she is as crazy loyal as she claims, she won't bat an eye, if she isn't… Well at least I'll know."

Would be a pity to lose her though…

"I'm counting on you Maya." He finished with, knowing he was putting a lot of pressure on her team with this.

They could do this without Bucky if necessary.

But it wouldn't have the same effect.

"As you always are, Mister Hammer." She answered dryly.

That's probably fair, he thought, hanging up.

＊＊＊

New York, Hilton Hotel.

Later that evening, as they gathered in his temporary office to discuss the day's events, Justin decided it was time to address the elephant in the room.

Just to be on the safe side of course, he had Domino standing next to him where he sat by his desk, as an added precaution, she had a tranquilizer gun with the Extremis nullifier formula loaded.

It was one of the best kept secrets in the company, as Justin didn't want there to be any chance anyone could nullify him. The formula only existed in Hansen's head, and in one notebook, that Justin had protected harsher than the mind control serum.

Hansen would only produce a vial of the nullification serum on his personal face to face request. Never by call, email, or other means.

Domino was the only person that even knew about it otherwise, because she was the best means of delivery.

"Elena," he began, his tone neutral yet firm, "I need to talk to you."

She looked up from her tablet, her expression unreadable. "Of course, sir. What is it?"

Justin leaned forward, his gaze steady, even as he wondered. "I've noticed some inconsistencies in your background and behavior. I need to know who you really are and what your intentions are."

Who is the woman I let closer than almost anyone else? Who are you?

Elena's mask slipped for a moment, surprise flickering across her features before she quickly regained her composure. "I am completely loyal to you and your cause sir. My past may be... complicated, but I am here to serve you, never doubt that."

Justin raised an eyebrow. "Complicated how?"

Elena hesitated briefly, her gaze flickering away for a moment before she met his eyes again. "I've had my share of... Difficult experiences, but I've put that behind me. I'm fully committed to your vision for Hammer Industries and the world." Her insistent tone seemed sincere, but she was also previcerating.

Justin studied her carefully, weighing her words. He couldn't deny the effectiveness of her skills, but he couldn't ignore his gut feeling either, and he wanted a clear and direct answer, now.

"Look, Elena," He said finally, leaning back in his chair, "I appreciate your dedication, but I need transparency from everyone on my team, now's the time to come clean."

Unsaid was the threat of what would happen if she lied.

Elena smiled ruefully, "Would you believe me if I told you I was planning on telling you soon anyway?"

Domino rolled her eyes, "Easy to say now, Elena." She spoke the words Justin was thinking.

She cocked her head, a sad smile on her face, "I was a Black Widow, I'm well aware that I risked discovery the second I began my interrogation of Trask." She admitted, "I guess I just wanted to come clean, but couldn't find the words…"

"A poor excuse for not coming clean immediately." Justin said, with a measure of disappointment in his voice, "Why did you infiltrate my business, Widow?"

Elena winced, looking almost physically hurt at the new moniker. "I guess I was… Afraid." She admitted, shrinking in on herself slightly, her pretty eyes more expressive than ever before, "I found my time here amazing, and… I didn't want to lose yo-it, I didn't want to lose my position." She slowly put her hands in her lap, ensuring they were visible the entire time. "I was sent here to spy on you, while in a mind controlled state, the Panacea treatment cured me, and I chose to stay and help, while sending falsified reports back."

"Mind control?" Justin asked sharply, because if someone other than him had access to that, it was not a good thing.

Elena nodded seriously, "His name is Dreykov, and he is in charge of the Red Room, a facility that trains Black Widows, and acts as mission control for a little over a hundred of my sisters."

Justin blanched, looking horrified, "There's over a hundred Black Widows!?" Then his mind caught on to the major issue with that, above the already real problem, "There's a hundred mind controlled Black Widows?"

Elena looked down into her lap, "I… I was trying to think of a way to deliver them to you, to make them your hidden dagger in the dark." She looked up, unshed tears in her eyes, "I promise I'm loyal!" She swore.

Justin ran a hand through his hair, this was more than he was bargaining for. He'd thought he was dealing with one Black Widow. A defunct program that had a couple survivors running around. Not a fully operational super women initiative.

"Are they hot?" Domino asked casually, leaning back against the wall behind Justin.

"Domino…" Justin groaned, putting his face in his hands.

Elena quirked a small grin, her face lighting up. "Very, they're flexible too, very eager to please." She looks way too excited about revealing that.

"You two…" Justin said without heat.

Domino shrugged, lightly slapping him over the back of his head, ignoring his look, "I say it like it is boss, you're ten times more likely to do this if they're hot, don't even deny it."

"We're not getting into anything about a Black Widow army right now, we're focusing on the here and now…" Justin said, his gaze finding Elena's, his lips pursed, "I've spent the day going through everything you've done since you started… I can't find a single thing to say you've been working against me."

"I haven't." She swore, her facial expression pleading for him to believe her.

"I'm… Inclined to believe you. But I can't just trust you, you've hidden this from me, what else might you have hidden?" Justin said, watching her carefully.

Elena looked hopeful at even the chance of redemption, "My real name is Yelena Belova, and Natasha is my sister…" She nodded her head as Justin gaped openly at her, "Yes, that Natasha, we were raised together."

Justin couldn't quite wrap his mind around it, so he focused on the lesser thing in that cluster fuck of a reveal, "Your name is Yelena and you chose Elena as your cover name?"

Domino was smirking, hiding a snort behind her hand, even as Yelena looked rueful again, "I was mind controlled back then, my handler chose my alias." She defended herself with.

"Sure, sure." Domino teased, her smile turning more genuine at the way Yelena lit up, eyes almost sparkling as she realized Domino was going to treat her the same way.

Justin realized he should probably punish her, or something. But with the circumstances laid out, and his investigation finding absolutely nothing wrong. It was hard to blame her too badly.

Plus she was apparently his access key to a Black Widow army, so he couldn't alienate her.

In the end the decision was easy. He honestly liked her too much to go at her too hard. She'd been a loyal servant this entire time, and he wasn't a hero with their black and white views.

He could understand why she wouldn't rock the boat by immediately revealing her status when she was hired and cured. He could understand why she would hesitate.

He didn't like it.

It meant he'd need to keep an eye on her irregardless, to ensure this hadn't all been a ploy as well.

But he had a feeling she was being honest. Or maybe that was just his dick talking.

Because again, he really liked Ele-Yelena in about every way that mattered.

He sighed, giving her a half smile, "You're forgiven, Yelena, I can understand your reasoning, but this is not forgotten." He warned.

Yelena smiled brilliantly, even as she barely held back a sob of relief, and before Justin or Domino could react, she literally tossed herself forward, sliding over his desk like an Olympic athlete jumping hurdles, landing in his lap, straddling him, her soft full lips finding his as she thanked him enthusiastically for his forgiveness.

"Your security clearance will have to be downgraded for a bit." Justin managed to breathe out.

"Uh-huh." Yelena said, before locking lips with him again, so he lost his trail of thoughts.

When he was able to get air again, he continued, "Also no vacation this year, you've been bad and shouldn't be rewarded!"

"Mhmm, very bad." She mumbled, before her arms locked around his head as she went back to kissing him, her tongue sliding in-between his lips.

"Domino… I forgot what I was saying." Justin complained in a husky voice as Yelena let him go yet again, her own breath coming in quick gasps, her lips slightly swollen.

"I figured it was some variation of take off your clothes and get ready for a spanking." Domino replied dryly. "I have a paddle if you need one." She offered.

Both him and Yelena stared at her, Justin managing to get out the question, "Why on earth do you carry around a paddle?"

Domino's smirk was entirely too pleased, even as her eyes twinkled, "I do work for you. Figured I'd need it one day."

Justin just sighed, "I'm surrounded by incorrigible women."

They both snorted simultaneously.

"You love it, boss!"

"You'd be bored otherwise, Dusha Moya…"

He probably would be…

Yelena ground down on him, "Can I beg for forgiveness now?" She said with a spark of mischief and heat in her eyes.

…

Justin suddenly remembered another reason why he needed to keep Yelena around.

＊＊＊

Next day, New York Blacksite.

Bucky frowned as the routine was broken up, the locks of his cell cycling, voices talking outside, new voices.

Silently he prepared himself for the chance of violence, wondering if HYDRA had finally found him.

Except he couldn't fathom why they would want to enter his cell, instead of utilizing the speaker system to put him under control again.

Two men walked in as soon as the locks disengaged, Bucky immediately clocked them as military, special forces in all likelihood, with the way they moved and the way they assessed him, as he was them.

The taller one smirked, giving a small wave, "Hey, Bucky right? I'm Brock Rumlow, my silent shadow here is Frank Castle, don't worry if he doesn't talk much." He put a hand next to his mouth, "He's shy." He stage whispered.

The aforementioned Frank, had a look on his face that Bucky remembered from the war. A lot of people that had never dealt with Steve before got that look on their face. Polite disbelief, or a just overall done look, like they didn't want to be part of the conversation any longer.

It was hard to argue with Steve, as many had found out.

Maybe this Brock fella was the same kind of unstoppable force?

He had mixed feelings on getting some of his memories back, because most of them just weren't very good. Even the ones with Steve, still had the war.

At least he knew they were his. He wasn't sure he wanted the memories of what he'd done for all these years to fully come to the fore.

"Just putting it out there, if at anytime you feel the need to punch Brock, I won't say anything to anyone." Frank said in a deadpan voice, his face expressionless.

"He's a super soldier, what the hell, man?" Brock complained, but it lacked any heat, Bucky noted.

Best friend types, he guessed, eyeing them both, not sure why they were here.

"You heal." Frank replied back, before sitting down in one of the chairs that had been added to his cell that morning.

At least Bucky had a reason for why now. But not the entire reason why, so he went ahead and asked. "Why?"

Brock also sat down, making himself comfortable, while Frank looked like he was at parade rest, only sitting. "Why what?" He asked, an easy grin on his face.

Which turned to a grimace as Frank punched him on the shoulder. Bucky was getting some real flashbacks to the howling commandos due to these guys.

"Let me talk." Frank said harshly, punching Brock in the shoulder again, he turned to Bucky, his expression softening slightly, "I'll level with you, because if I was in your situation, I wouldn't want any bullshit." He said frankly. "Our boss wants you on the team, and figured we could at least get to know each other, all military types that we are."

Bucky frowned, not sure what he felt about Justin Hammer and his team either. It seemed more like Steve's thing… But then he'd said that without Steve, things were getting bad.

But Bucky couldn't be Steve, not before. Definitely not now. Not after…

"Absolutely no pressure from us, don't worry about it either way." Frank continued, "You can just think of us as some comrades sharing war stories, alright?"

Brock leaned forward eagerly, hands on his knees, "So, I'll share my embarassing CO stories if you share yours." He said with a wide grin.

Frank scoffed, crossing his bulky arms, cocking his head Brock's way, "I'll tell you embarassing stories about him, trust me, there's enough of them."

Bucky eyed the two men wearing military fatigues, they weren't scientists, who he had to admit was draining his last nerve.

So why not?

Not like he had anything to lose really.

"This one time, me and Steve had snuck into commander Phillips office - "

＊＊＊

The Pentagon,

Justin slowly walked through the Pentagon, his steps purposeful despite the chaos around him. The once pristine corridors were still a maze of scaffolding in places, with workers scrambling to repair the damage left by the terrorist attack months ago. The air was thick with the scent of dust and concrete, punctuated by the sound of hammers and power tools echoing off the walls.

What a security nightmare, Justin thought, glad to not have to deal with construction workers doing their business a step away from where some of the most far reaching decisions in America are made.

Figures that they would still be repairing things, the government did always take its sweet time with simple things, overcomplicating something so simple as fixing walls.

As he made his way through the bustling corridors, Justin couldn't help but feel a sense of unease at recent events and his part in it. The Pentagon, the symbol of American military might, had been violated, and the scars of the attack were still visible. It was a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the world that he couldn't always predict, and the constant threat of terrorism that loomed over every nation.

Or more importantly, over him.

In a world where a Metahuman could suddenly do anything from rain down asteroids on you to mind control you - the threat was very real at all times - and ultimately, as they'd found out in Wakanda, almost impossible to fully predict.

His escort was a group of stern-faced military security personnel that led him through the maze of construction, their movements efficient and precise. Despite the chaos and dust surrounding them, they maintained a vigilant watch, their eyes scanning for any signs of trouble.

The fact it was necessary inside the Pentagon, said something about how the world had changed.

Justin couldn't help but feel a sense of irony as he passed by some of the still damaged sections of the building. (How had they not repaired this all yet?) Here he was, a man who had profited from the chaos and destruction brought on by war, called on no doubt, to provide the solution.

More chaos and destruction.

As humans, we are if nothing else, utterly predictable when facing a threat, he thought. Yelena and Domino both trailing him, Justin not willing to let Yelena out of his sight for now, they still had a lot to talk about, despite the revelations.

This meeting was coming at an inopportune time for him if only for that reason, especially as Ross had the nerve to summon him!

Him!?

Like he was one of his military lackeys.

Ross was definitely getting too big for his britches lately, Justin would have to take care of that too…

As they reached the conference room, it was for that reason, amongst some others, that he insisted Yelena and Domino join him inside, instead of taking up spots outside the door.

It took several minutes, and a phone call to Ross himself. (Ridiculous, the man was right in there!) But eventually it was sorted, Justin allowed inside with his escorts, almost freezing immediately upon entering, because of the tableau he saw.

The Pentagon conference room was spacious and imposing, with a long table dominating the center of the room. The walls were lined with screens displaying real-time data and maps, while the lighting was dim, adding to the serious atmosphere of the place.

At the head of the table sat Thaddeus 'Thunderbolt' Ross, the head cantankerous ass himself, his expression stern and unyielding as usual. His military uniform was impeccably pressed, and his posture radiated authority. To his right sat Norman Osborn, the CEO of Oscorp, not the man Justin wanted to see today, or ever. Osborn's eyes gleamed with a dangerous intensity, and his fingers drummed impatiently on the table.

The seating arrangement with Norman next to Ross, was a deliberate snub, Justin could feel it in his bones. Ross was still sore over Justin's refusal to supply him with endless power armors.

Opposite Osborn was the only man Justin could possibly want to see even less than Norman Osborn. It was Tony Stark in the flesh, and Justin darkly noted that he had Pepper with him, wondering if he had to argue for the addition. Norman, not surprisingly had no additional members inside, he wasn't exactly well loved, even by his own.

Quite frankly, reading between the lines on some of the reports that crossed Justin's inbox, he could amend that to - especially by his own.

Tony lounged casually in his chair of course, Pepper seated behind him. A smirk was playing on his lips as he surveyed the room with a mixture of amusement and boredom. Eyes only flickering Justin's way briefly.

Justin wanted to pick him up and shake him, why aren't you Iron Man yet, you prick!?

Justin walked forward, and took his seat,Yelena and Domino coming to stand behind him. His expression was composed, but his mind was racing with thoughts and calculations. He took in the sight before him, his gaze lingering on each of the men seated at the table. This is… Unexpected, he thought, wondering what Ross thought he could achieve with this disaster in the making.

"Well, well, well," Tony drawled, his eyes glinting mischievously as he addressed Justin. "Look who decided to grace us with his presence. Late as always, I see."

Look who's talking…

Justin shot Tony a pointed look, his lips curling into a sardonic smile. "Better late than never, Stark. At least I have better things to do than attend these tedious meetings." Unlike you…

Tony's eyes hardened briefly, but Pepper put a hand on his shoulder, stopping any response.

Ross cleared his throat, his gaze flickering between the three men before him. "Let's cut to the chase," He said gruffly. "We have a situation on our hands, and we need to address it immediately."

Osborn leaned forward, his voice tinged with a hint of the broiling madness beneath it. Justin wondered how long they had left before he had to be put down, pondering a pre-emptive strike even as he listened to Norman spew out his frustrations. "Those nuclear submarines were just the beginning," He declared ominously. "We're dealing with forces beyond our comprehension, and if we don't act swiftly, the consequences will be catastrophic."

Tony rolled his eyes theatrically. "Oh, spare us the melodrama, Osborn," He said dismissively. "We've faced threats before, and we always come out on top. Besides, I have a plenty of new stuff to unveil that will blow your mind."

"But no new weapons, right?" Justin got his own shot in, sneering at Tony, "I'm sure a new perfected blow dryer will come as great comfort to our servicemen." He mocked.

This fool was not taking the threat seriously, nuclear detonations are not a joke… His eyes narrowed, as he stared down Tony Stark, wondering what exactly was going on with the man. Had Yinsen's survival changed that much?

Almost enough to tempt a man to fix that issue…

Hmm… It seemed murder was on his mind quite often in the last 48 hours, perhaps he was developing a habit?

"Enough," Ross barked, silencing the room with his authoritative tone - or perhaps mostly achieved though the fact no one in this room was interested in dragging this out too long. "We need to focus on solutions, not bickering. Osborn, what do you have for me?"

Norman straightened, a sly smirk blooming onto his face. "I have quite a few drones already made, they can be useful…" He said confidently. "With the radioactive fallout, you need my drones to get m-" He coughed suddenly, " Your Vibranium, out of the ground."

Ross nodded approvingly, while Tony and Justin exchanged skeptical glances, for once on the same page - no one could trust Norman Osborn to that extent. But deep down, they all knew that Norman was right about the method at least, sending humans into Wakanda right now would be costlier.

Tony piped in, and for once Justin let him, if he had to pick who got Vibranium squirreled away between the two of them - it wasn't even a choice.

Tony for all his foibles, was not an active threat to the planet.

"Stark industries are in the middle of investing heavily into robotics, drones wouldn't be a problem." He said dismissively, waving a hand contemptuously towards Norman, "And you could trust us to deliver the Vibranium, all of it, to where it is supposed to go."

"Are you suggesting something, Stark?" Norman growled out, eyes twitching rapidly.

"I'm outright stating." Tony said smugly, "You're like the knockoffs knockoff," He nodded at Justin, who barely withheld a grimace, "Get on our level before you try to sit at the big boys table."

Justin hated doing it. He really did. But he interjected himself into the argument. On Tony's side. "I have… Some great success in drone vehicles." He admitted, almost dragging it out, "If Stark industries could supply the 'workforce' Hammer industries could supply the drone excavators and trucks to transport the fruit of their labor."

Tony looked almost as stricken as Justin, as he mulled that over. In the end, it was obvious however, with him glancing at Norman's enraged face to solidify his decision. And just like that, just like Justin had decided, Tony decided on the lesser evil. "Right, cooperation, that's always been my motto." He forced out between gritted teeth.

He might have been more believable if not for the absolutely shocked look on Pepper's face behind him.

"You pitiful creatures -. "Norman began, before Ross stopped him, raising a hand, his eyes gleaming with greed.

"It's decided then, Stark industries will provide the robotic workforce to extract something out of the soil, and Hammer industries will provide the heavy lifting and transportation aspect." Ross declared, momentarily pissing Norman Osborn off so much they could literally see veins popping on the man.

"And Oscorp will supervise it all." He finished, grinning viciously at the two titans of industry.

Norman's protests died down at the same time as the others rose.

"If you think I'll let that hack oversee a single damn -" Tony rose up, voice raised.

At the same time, Justin slammed his fist on the table, eyes flashing, "In no way will anything of mine be even touched by that -"

"ENOUGH!" Ross shouted, face red, "If either of you find something wrong with this offer, I am not opposed to ensuring Oscorp gets the entirety of the contract."

Justin grimaced, sharing a look with Tony. They couldn't let Oscorp of all places get their mitts on the Vibranium mines. Luckily the Americans weren't the only player in the game, a lot of people wanted their slice of the pie, and not many companies had the ability to deliver like they could. Even if they lost America, NATO, Russia and China, amongst others, were all owed their own slice of the pie - and Hammer industries was well placed to offer their services.

Tony spoke up, not at all cowed by Ross trying to shout them down. "Yeah no, I think I'll stick with Hammer on this one." He said flippantly, "I can't believe I said that…" He added in a low mutter, that was still audible enough for everyone in the room.

Pepper was already a pale woman, this confluence of events was making her as white as a ghost, as she stared at the back of Tony's head, like she had no idea what she was seeing.

"I control who gets the contract." Ross said, giving Tony a look of distaste, one he mirrored as he turned to Justin, "You can get with the program, or I'll simply offer it to Oscorp alone."

"That's not how contracts get done, even in the military, Ross." Justin accused acerbically, "You'll never push it through."

"Is that a no, Hammer?" Ross said, unperturbed by his resistance.

Justin was getting really tired of these moronic roadblocks that were popping up everywhere. And there was no way, come hell or high water, that he'd allow Norman fucking Osborn to mine Wakanda.

"Fuck you Ross." He said, Tony bursting out in a loud guffaw at the action, actually applauding him.

Justin tapped into the conference call device in the middle of the table, mentally dialing the number. Everyday he loved his glasses and implants more.

He couldn't wait to see if this Forge was really the mechanical genius he claimed to be, transhumanism would be an eventual possibility.

Before Ross could let loose a tirade, a tired, recognizable voice came over the conference call, "Yes, what is it now, Ross?"

Before Ross could get a word in, Justin smoothly slid in, you snooze you lose, Ross… "Mister President, I'm here with Tony Stark, Norman Osborn and General Ross, I'm just confirming with you that General Ross has the authority to give sole access to mining and transporting Vibranium in Wakanda to Oscorp, cutting out Stark and Hammer industries."

The smile he gave Ross, could only be called viciously smug, with a dash of condescending sneer.

It was like the man had completely forgotten just how much clout Justin currently held.

"...Ross…" The president said, sounding absolutely done. There was just a deep weariness to it that spoke of long hours and an abundance of idiots.

"Yes, Mister President." Ross said, unable to refute Justin, because in essence he had done exactly what Justin had laid out.

Justin took the absolute death glare he was receiving from Ross, as a job well done.

Refresh my memory, when did the Joint Chiefs give you permission to be sole arbiter of this?" Ellis asked, sounding almost politely curious.

Ross continued to glare nastily at Justin, and at Tony who was still grinning widely, "Ah, you see, I was streamlining the process, Mister President. The Joint Chiefs are very busy right now." Ross said deferentially.

"Not that busy." Ellis shot back immediately, "You're overstepping your remit, Ross. This matter is out of your hands. What was it you were offering, Mister Hammer?"

"I was offering a joint venture with Stark industries to supply all the necessary robotics and vehicles to perform the task, without endangering the lives of human operators." Justin said smoothly, shooting a look at Tony.

Tony rolled his eyes, but joined in, an absolutely shit eating grin on his face as he stared at Ross's reddening face the entire time. "That's right, Mister President, to add to that, I don't see why I couldn't whip up something to help with the radiation a bit too, I'm clever like that." All delivered casually.

Ellis' voice was very dry as he replied back, "We are aware Mister Stark…" There was a small period of silence, before Ellis spoke again, "Ross, can Oscorp deliver both the manpower and transportation and I'm guessing excavation?" At Justin's muttered acknowledgement, he continued, "As well as a potential radiation treatment?"

Ross and Osborn both sat there, faces flushed as they could not deliver something like that, and they knew it. And while lying to customers, clients or contractors was no big deal, it became another when you were speaking with the President.

With a brand spanking new Congress, and the whole world practically a step away from war. Ellis was likely the most powerful president in the last fifty years at the moment. Not someone you tried to pull the wool over in a situation like this.

"From the silence I take that as a no." Ellis said with some recrimination in his voice. "Mister Hammer, if you and Mister Stark can forward me the plan I will ensure it is sent to the Joint Chiefs."

"Mister President!" Norman broke his silence to protest, "That is not a fair bidding process!"

Justin thought that was a funny thing to say, considering he had obviously conspired with Ross to take the whole cake for himself.

They were both moving up on the list of people that needed to be dealt with sooner rather than later.

"You will of course be allowed to forward your own bid, Mister Osborn." Ellis reassured the man.

Which did nothing to soothe his, nor Ross' frustration. Because obviously the Stark industries and Hammer industries team up was going to be picked. It was a no brainer if there ever was one.

The meeting fizzled out soon thereafter, Ross and Osborn both leaving, throwing different levels of hissy fits.

Justin eyed Tony across the table, a mien of distaste on his face. "I suppose… We better come up with a proposal, since the president is waiting on it…" He said reluctantly.

Since they'd just pulled it out of their ass when Ross dropped the surprise bomb on them - they needed literally… Everything.

Pepper stood up, sighing, "I'll make sure we get coffee." She announced.

Yelena watched her suspiciously, "I'll come with you, ensure the coffee is alright." She told Pepper, making clear in no uncertain terms, that she wasn't going to let her out of her sight.

Domino chuckled, sliding into Ross' chair, propping her feet up on the table, "And I'm… Going to play Angry Birds." She announced, drawing a laugh out of Tony.

"You have good people at least, no idea how they stand you though." He told Justin, stroking his facial hair like a cartoon villain.

Justin gave him an irritated glance, "They compared me to you, and found themselves relieved to avoid all the sexual harassment." He snarked.

Domino literally broke down laughing at that, completely ignoring the death glare Justin sent her.

What did he say that was so funny?

This was going to be a pain…

＊＊＊

As painful as it was, Justin and Tony were both very intelligent, and it didn't take long to arrange something.

Considering Justin had just begun playing around with drone vehicles, they'd have to switch some things around to be able to push out some for the first wave of Wakandan exploration.

As soon as they were far away enough from the Pentagon, Justin placed a call to Sunil.

"Yes, sir?" He answered promptly.

Justin thought back to Osborn, and how he'd almost finagled himself sole purveyorship of Vibranium on the American side.

He'd still probably find himself an in with one of the other countries, through bribery if nothing else. But the fact he was worming his way into the military as far as he was, was a concern.

"Osborn, the contingency plans, set them in motion." He ordered, well aware that Fury if no one else, would immediately clock it as his action.

It would take a few days, but Norman Osborn would find himself facing difficulties soon enough. And hopefully they'd even manage to snare the man himself.

The world was on fire, everyone was looking outwards. SHIELD was dealing with a succession crisis. It was the perfect time for some old fashioned corporate sabotage.

He had been keeping a close eye on Oscorp, his people marking the assets they could, some supplied by Justin himself.

It wouldn't make him overly popular with the people marked, but denying assets to Osborn was worth the temporary headache.

Besides, he could offer them a better deal anyway.

You should have just stayed in your lane, Osborn, he thought, Tony is a rival…

You're just a minor distraction at best.

＊＊＊

A few days later, New York.

Doctor Curt Connors frowned as he walked out into the Oscorp parking lot.

Where is everyone?

He hadn't been staying that late? Had he?

"Gwen, did I accidentally keep you after hours?" He asked his intern, Gwen Stacy.

She eyed the empty parking lot as well, biting her lip, "No Doctor Connors, if anything you finished early today." She fished her phone out of her pocket, brow furrowed as she flicked through it, her expression clearing up soon after, "There was an interdepartmental memo sent out an hour ago, telling everyone to go home early, with full pay." She looked up at him, "Is that… Normal?" She asked hesitantly.

Doctor Connors' frown deepened. "No, it is not. Norman thinks things like sick days are an invention by the lazy to avoid work. I can't remember anyone leaving early for the entire time I've worked at Oscorp."

Gwen opened her mouth, no doubt to ask another question, when they were interrupted by a blast inside Oscorp, throwing them off their feet, glass raining down around them.

"Gwen, are you alright?" Curt called out, crawling over to the young girl, his eyes flickering up to the giant hole in the side of the building. Osborn's 'secret lab'… Why would it…?

"I'm alright, Doctor Connors." Gwen said, letting out a cough, "What is that smell…"

His eyes widened as a canister rolled by him, emitting a gas of some sort, Gwen already losing consciousness as he desperately grabbed for her, slowly growing weaker, another canister rolling by.

Before he lost the battle, he saw several men in tactical gear approaching.

"Target acquired."

"The girl?"

"Witness, take her as well."

Then it all went black.

…

On the other side of New York, Otto Octavius was sitting down for dinner with his wife.

He'd spent his last dime to ensure they could get a reservation at the restaurant that he knew she'd been dying to go to.

Personally he couldn't really care for the food, his mind was elsewhere, his research almost at the point where he could build a prototype. But he made an effort to live in the moment, for Rosie.

He was drawn out of his introspection when the couple at the table next to them suddenly slumped over. "What?" He muttered, his mind racing as he noticed another diner suddenly collapsing. "Rosie! Don't eat another bite!" He yelled, standing up and swiping their plates off the table, the noise drawing no notice due to the rest of the diners slowly beginning to drop off.

Otto panicked as he saw Rosie begin to list in her seat, her eyes already closing. "ROSIE!" He grabbed her by the shoulders, giving her a shake, "Wake up!" He felt a slight grogginess now, but he powered through it, now glad he hadn't bothered eating more than what was needed to show Rosie he was here and engaging.

"You should have just eaten the food, tubby." A muffled voice said from behind, before he felt a syringe stabbed into him.

"Rosie!" He roared, trying to sweep the man away, his arms sluggish and uncooperative.

The muffled voice sighed audibly, "She's fine, you'll see her again after your nap, settle down."

Otto continued his attempt to fight, but his vision was going blurry.

Oh, he was on his knees, why was he on his knees? He couldn't remember. He was so tired.

So… So… Tired.

Darkness…

…

Max Dillon had no idea where he was exactly, except further down in the crapper than ever. His life had taken a surprise turn for the worse - something he hadn't thought possible. He thought he'd died when he'd ended up in a vat of electric eels - but instead, he'd ended up wrapped up like a mummy, tied down and poked by Oscorp scientists.

Those bastards had found him before he could understand what was happening to him, and had taken him.

He scowled darkly, Norman Osborn himself had come down from his ivory tower to experiment on him, poking and prodding him, insulting him all the while.

Max was pretty pissed that getting superpowers actually had his life get even worse than it was before.

A test subject, instead of a hero, like Spiderman.

He'd only recently shown up, but he was a real life hero, saving people all over New York without asking for anything in return.

If only Spiderman knew he existed, he'd save him, and they could be best buddies, a real super team and everything.

He blinked as he heard a cut off scream outside whatever blank room he was in now. Not that he could do anything but blink anyway, he was completely wrapped up, and isolated from anything even remotely electrical.

He was pretty sure he must be in like the sub sub sub basement of Oscorp or something, because he'd never seen the place before, even the experimentation had taken place higher up, but there had been some sort of explosion, and he'd been brought down here.

All the while his tormentors kept bitching about how everyone else got to go home, but they didn't because they weren't on the official roster.

Weird thing to whine about for inhumane monsters, Max had thought.

With a loud thud, the door to his confinement hit the floor, masked men in military gear walking in.

Max was too confused to be afraid. What is going on?

"Max Dillon. Do you want to be a hero?" The lead soldier asked.

"Uhhh… Yes?"

"Come with us, and you'll be adored by the entire country." He promised.

Well… It sure as shit beats being locked in the basement!

…

Norman cackled, even as he saw Oscorp's damage.

He'd underestimated his enemies. He didn't know for sure if it was Stark or Hammer yet. But whoever it was, struck immediately.

He'd thought Hammer too cowardly to dare strike at him, and Stark too egocentric to even think of it.

Perhaps it was both? Their unusual cooperation had struck him as directly meant to keep him down. Stark's comment still burned in his veins.

He'd show him a knockoff….

They wouldn't reach the heights he'd climbed to, he thought, as he continued to cackle, floating above his building on his glider, wearing the armor for the first time. The green and purple Goblin suit felt like it belonged on him. He felt whole.

He had a contract with the US military for drones and armor already, some damage to his building would hardly even slow him down. It was a pitiful attempt to push him down.

He'd get his Vibranium, if not through the US, then through the sources he'd squeezed out of Klaue.

This was a minor setback if anything.

His hand lowered to his belt, idly playing with one of his goblin bombs - name still being workshopped.

It would look nicer with some more fire/it's my building!

Fire though… Think of all the pretty explosions/Maybe Stark's buildings…

Yes…/Yes…

See him laugh at me when I/we burn everything of his down/Hammer too!

"Hey! You know you need a license and all kinds of permits before you redecorate to this extent, right?" A voice called out.

The Green Goblin tilted his head, watching the red and blue spandex clad fool that had climbed up his building. "Spiderboy?" He asked, flying a little closer, caressing one of his bombs.

The vigilantes' shoulders slumped slightly, "It's SpiderMAN! Not spiderboy! Why can't people get that part right?"

"Why are you bothering me, pest?" Green Goblin growled, taking one of his bombs off his belt, his building, his responsibility to do pest control.

Spiderman straightened up in his crouch, the odd white eyes of the costume narrowing, "What did you do with G-the people in this building?"

He cackled, juggling the bomb in his hands, "Oh, a hero has arrived. To save Oscorp, hmm?" He couldn't help but break out in wild unrestrained laughter, how funny!

"No one needs to get hurt, I don't know why you're doing this, but we can talk it out." Spiderman said carefully.

The Green Goblin let out another cackle, tossing the bomb over, having primed it, Spiderman having no problem webbing it and slinging it into the air, where it exploded brilliantly, bathing them in the greenish light.

"Fetch doggy, fetch." He laughed, pulling up his entire complement of bombs, letting them drop from his fingers, falling down towards the ground.

Spiderman immediately jumped down after them.

Oh, such a good boy, yes you are, yes you are Spiderman!

Him first/Stark first!

＊＊＊

Author's note:

Yelena is revealed, apologies to those that expected a tearful screamfest about betrayals etc etc.

That's just not Justin, nor Yelena. Justin can understand her, even if he'll now be keeping a closer eye and not let her in as much until he's over the issue.

So mutant issue is still an issue, but Hammer running into problems doesn't in any way mean he'd be defeated so easily , it just means he has to pivot and focus a little more on the threats around him that he'd left on the backburner a little.

In no way is this the end of Osborn, but it does make him less of an immediate competitor for Justin for a while on the science and business side. While creating a somewhat different problem.

Oh, hey, random Spiderman sighting!

Tony and Justin team up for a bit. To both of their obvious delight.

By the next chapter Emma should be back, I'm sure that will be fun.