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Asgard, July 20th, 2010
The grand throne room of Asgard shimmered with light as beams of gold filtered through towering crystal windows. The intricately carved columns lining the hall depicted scenes of Asgard's glorious past - battles fought, alliances forged, and victories won.
The marble floor beneath them was polished to a gleaming finish, reflecting the grandeur of the room. Despite the magnificence of the locale, tension was in the air, emotions running strong amongst those gathered before the throne.
Frejya, the Queen of Asgard and the regent of King Thor, sat regally upon the golden throne made for the Queen, her gown of emerald and gold silk pooling elegantly around her. Her gaze was serene but there was a slight tension in her eyes where she sat, her fingers lightly resting on the armrests.
Beside her, Thor sat on the King's throne, shoulders slightly hunched, as if the weight of the crown pressed heavier on him today than usual. His hands gripped the armrests, knuckles whitening as he braced himself for the argument that had already begun. His eyes flickering between his mother and father.
Despite being King, no one in the room was waiting on his word, his inexperience and habit of deferring to his mother making his kingship mostly a symbolic one.
Standing before them was Odin, his one eye burning with restrained fury. His once-mighty presence, though diminished with age, still commanded respect. His long white beard flowed like a river down his chest. At his side stood General Tyr, Asgard's top military commander, his armor polished to perfection, and Heimdall, ever watchful, his gaze unblinking as he absorbed every word even while keeping a watchful eye elsewhere.
Odin's voice cut through the silence like a thunderclap within the grand chamber. "You are willfully blinding yourselves, both of you," He said, his tone sharp with disapproval. "Midgard is no longer the weak, defenseless realm it once was. I acknowledge this. In that you have succeeded in fostering a relationship with Midgards ruler. However they are not simply 'amusing mortals', as you seem to think. They are now a threat."
Thor shifted uncomfortably, casting a quick glance at his mother for support. "Father, I would not describe them as such. The people of Midgard have grown, yes, but they do not see us as their enemy, nor can they match my strength - outside of their ruler himself, perhaps."
Odin's eye darkened. "Naive, Thor," He spat. "Naive and foolish."
Thor looked briefly mullish, before he wilted at his father's glare and kept his silence.
Frejya's lips pressed into a thin line, but her voice remained even, as she responded. "Midgard's progress need not be a threat to us. If anything, their unity could bring benefits we have long overlooked. The nine realms could thrive through cooperation and progress. We no longer rule with the goal of stagnation, nor through fear and mistrust or with the fist of Asgards military."
The dig against Odin's rule was hardly subtle, even Thor understanding it and wincing slightly.
Odin's glare hardened. "Cooperation? With a world that obviously seeks to stand not as one of the nine realms, but as the one? The seat of power in the cosmos? Their ambition knows no bounds, and you know it, wife."
With a wave of his hand, he gestured toward Heimdall, who stepped forward, his armor gleaming similarly to polished bronze. His gaze swept the room before landing on Frejya and Thor, as he put a fist to his chest, bowing his head slightly in respect.
"As you know," Heimdall began, his voice low and resonant, "Justin Hammer recently delivered a speech to the people of Midgard, stoking their resolve to remain free from outside influence as he proclaimed humanity the center of the universe. He painted a picture of external threats, particularly alien ones, as being anything not human. While he did not mention Asgard by name, the subtext was clear. He unites them through fear against the other. And we of Asgard qualify."
Thor leaned forward, frowning. "They don't see us as their enemy, Heimdall. I've been there. They view us as allies, protectors of the nine realms, we struck a trade deal, that is not enemy action."
Odin scoffed, his voice thick with disdain. "You think that shield will hold forever? One man's vision can twist the masses in a heartbeat against us, and there are many of these mortals. Fear will turn an alliance of convenience into hatred the moment Hammer wishes for it to be so."
Frejya raised a hand, silencing them both. "Heimdall, continue."
He nodded. "Midgard's forces are currently fighting in a region known as the Savage Lands, seeking celestial technology buried within its jungles. Their technological advancements already rival anything we have seen from mortals before. Their command of science and magic combined is accelerating rapidly. With celestial technology to bolster their advancement, we risk losing our advantage over Midgard technologically over the next few years, my Queen."
Odin's gaze never left Frejya as he interjected. "And yet, wife, you continue to view them as harmless to our interests."
Hence why they were here, an official audience on record. Odin tired of trying to convince her privately.
Frejya's expression didn't falter, though her fingers tightened briefly against the armrests. She shifted her gaze to Heimdall again, "And what of Hela?"
Heimdall's jaw tightened before he answered. "Hela is free to roam currently, my Queen. And while she has not openly defied the terms of our agreement with Midgard, she travels the cosmos under Midgard's banner, intent on wreaking havoc on slavers, pirates, and criminal outposts. Every battle she will fight adds to Midgard's coffers, and broadens their reputation."
Tyr, standing at Odin's side, took the opening to speak. His voice was measured, but the weight of his concern was unmistakable. "Our warriors are superior, of that there is no doubt. But superiority alone will not win a war. Midgard has millions of soldiers. They now have super soldiers that can match our strength if not our experience. With their technology advancing at this rate, and with the sheer numbers they can deploy, Asgard would be overwhelmed if conflict arose."
Tyr was not one for politics, so he bluntly stated his worries. Even as he seemed uncomfortable admit the possibility of loss.
Thor bristled, sitting up straighter. "We would not fall so easily." He rumbled, not believing that Midgard would fight at all, and certainly not that Asgard would risk losing.
Tyr's gaze hardened. "No, my King, not easy, we would fight, but for how long? And at what cost? Their armies number in the millions, and they do not need to fear losing a warrior the way we do. They would swarm us like insects, chipping away at our defenses until even the greatest of us are brought low."
Odin turned to Frejya, his voice quieter but no less intense. "Your experiment is a failure. Midgard is united, yes as you wished, but under a man we cannot trust. A man who speaks of peace while preparing for war, while wielding an infinity stone!"
Thor glanced toward his mother, uncertainty clouding his features. "Mother, what do we do? What advice can you give us?"
Frejya closed her eyes briefly, as though weighing the weight of the universe within her mind. When she opened them, her gaze was sharp and decisive. "Leave us," She commanded, her voice echoing through the chamber.
Heimdall, Tyr, and even Thor exchanged uncertain glances, but a nod from Odin sent them filing out of the room. When the grand doors closed, only Odin and Frejya remained.
The balance of power was slowly shifting again in the uncertainty.
Frejya's posture softened, her shoulders sagging slightly as she let out a quiet sigh. "Husband," She began, her voice barely above a whisper. "He wields, as you say, an Infinity Stone. We cannot strike against him. If we do, we doom Asgard."
Appeasement would work, it had to. Carrot after carrot with the odd showing of the stick, like when she'd chastised Hammer over Hela.
Odin's jaw tightened, his frustration barely contained. "We are doomed regardless if he turns against us. Do you not see that? We gave Hela back her freedom as an anchor around his neck and he turned her to his advantage, and you know what she is. One day, she will come for us, and Justin Hammer will be the one who unleashes her."
Frejya looked away, her gaze fixed on the intricate patterns woven into the floor. "I am not so certain." She looked back towards him, "And you forget, husband, she comes for you, above all else, not Asgard."
Odin took a step closer, his voice gentler now but no less insistent. "Do you dare to risk all of Asgard's people on that uncertainty? Will you gamble with their lives?"
For the first time in the argument, Frejya hesitated truly. Her fingers drummed softly against the armrest as her thoughts swirled, her mind torn between the hope she clung to and the grim reality her husband painted.
She had no answer.
Odin's gaze softened, but his disappointment lingered. "Think on it, Frejya, my dear wife. Because if we are wrong, there will be no one left to correct us."
The silence that followed was suffocating, the weight of their unspoken fears pressing down on them like the crushing force of a collapsing star.
They had to choose.
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July 28th, 2010, Washington D.C
The glow of the neon sign outside the small, themed restaurant cast shifting hues of pink and purple before them, as Justin and Yelena stepped through the entrance for their date.
The inside was bustling yet cozy, the air carrying the faint scent of fried food, grilled meat, and something sweet like freshly baked pastries. Lively chatter filled the room, blending with the soft hum of 1950s-inspired diner music, though the setting was anything but vintage.
The restaurant was an eclectic mix of retro diner aesthetics and modernity. Red leather booths were paired with gleaming chrome fixtures, but they shared space with digital tablets mounted at each table for ordering and entertainment. Colorful LED lighting bathed the walls in soft shades, creating a warm ambiance. Along the walls were holographic projections of animated cat girls that would occasionally wink or wave at passing customers, giving the place an immersive vibe.
And, of course, the real highlight - the employees.
Everywhere Justin turned, young women with playful animal ears, whiskers, and swaying tails moved between tables, delivering orders with cheerful energy. Fox girls with bushy tails wrapped around their waists, dog girls with floppy ears, and cat girls with twitching whiskers and eager tails weaved through the crowds.
Their outfits consisted of tight skirts that barely reached mid-thigh, paired with cropped blouses that exposed just enough skin to teeter on the edge of decency. Their steps were purposeful, but their flirty winks and playful gestures were part of the charm.
Nails 'hobby' brought to life. Employees signing a contract for a minimum of six months of work, in exchange for biomodification that truly turned them into girls with actual working fox tails or cat ears.
The entire restaurant chain was therefore also serving as advertisement for Hammer Industries bioengineering division.
Transhumanism was a heavy topic. Except when the first toe dipped in the water came with a cute cat girl as the poster girl.
Justin's gaze lingered briefly on a pair of cat girls who passed by their table, one of them with long silver hair and a tail that flicked as if aware of his attention. He couldn't help but smirk slightly.
How long until someone starts a hucow farm? and will Nail be embarrassed when I congratulate her as the mother of this revolution? He wondered.
He also couldn't help but imagine Yelena with cat ears and a tail… And it… Worked very well. Now how to convince her…
"You're enjoying this, aren't you?" Yelena teased, her sharp eyes narrowing in amusement as she slid into the booth across from him. "Nail really knows how to cater to her master's tastes then I suppose."
"Master?" Justin scoffed, sliding into his seat and taking the menu. "She does whatever she wants half the time, and you know it. Calling her my daughter has never been more correct."
"And conveniently, that involves cat girls amongst other types." Yelena raised an eyebrow, flipping through the menu on the tablet attached to their booth. "You think she's watching us right now to gauge your reaction?"
A silly question.
Nail was always watching.
Everywhere.
"Absolutely," Justin replied, tapping the side of his head where his neural implant was connected. "She's probably analyzing customer feedback in real time to see if the concept is worth expanding, while also taking the chance to see if we like it."
Justin knew one word for him would have Nail immediately shut down the project, so it was lucky that he did feel the entire thing was fantastic.
Mentally he added cat girl mud wrestling to the file of entertainment that would be available on Nails' other project, Night city, the city of sin.
Fox girls hunting rabbit girls…The possibilities here were endless!
Yelena chuckled, leaning back against the leather booth as she continued to skim the menu. "Well, it's working. This place is packed, and we would have had to wait for a table if we were anyone else. I heard the servers practically line up to sign contracts just to get the biomods, so there is an actual waiting list to work here."
"Why wouldn't they?" Justin said, his tone thoughtful. "Most of them will probably start their own streaming channels and rake in sponsorship deals and the like after their contract is up."
"Your empire of cat girls," Yelena teased, rolling her eyes. "What a legacy."
Justin grinned but didn't deny it as a cat girl approached their table, her large brown ears twitching slightly as she greeted them with a bright smile. Her tail swayed behind her as she placed two glasses of water on the table.
"Welcome, nyah~! Are you ready to order?" She asked, her voice cheerful and laced with the practiced cuteness of the role.
Justin gestured for Yelena to go first, and she tapped her menu thoughtfully. "I'll have the Beef Wellington with sweet potato fries instead of mashed potatoes, and a vanilla milkshake."
The cat girl nodded and turned to Justin, who gave her his most confident smile. "I'll take the ribeye steak, medium rare, with a side of mashed potatoes. And a strawberry milkshake, extra whipped cream."
"Got it! Master and mistress~ I'll be back shortly, nyah!" the cat girl said, spinning around and swishing her tail as she walked away.
Yelena smirked, watching Justin's gaze follow the server for a brief second before he turned back to her. "I think Nail's going to get a glowing review from you." She mocked, before adding, "And the food is kind of upscale for a diner, isn't it?"
"They can afford to charge more for a plate, people will still pay just for the girls, cheap finer food would have been a waste." Justin admitted. "But enough about that. What about you? Have you thought about baby names yet?"
Yelena made a face, wrinkling her nose. "I have a few ideas, but you're not getting a say."
"None at all?" Justin asked, raising an eyebrow.
"None," Yelena said firmly. "You had your say when you put the baby in me. Naming rights are mine."
He'd have to convince one of the other women for a Justin Jr then. Helen would probably be all for it.
Did he ever… Remove the clones she had of him?
Whatever, at least that kid will grow up used to seeing his face.
"Still highly unfair." He pointed out eventually, raising his glass of water to take a sip. "So what are you thinking? Russian inspired names?"
He'd have to veto anything too Russian. This kid would be the important one, after all.
The rest he supposed would make good underlings, one day.
"Maybe," Yelena mused, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Something strong. Traditional, but not boring."
"What about something inspired by your family?"
Yelena's expression softened slightly, a flicker of nostalgia crossing her face. "I've thought about naming her Natalia if it's a girl. Or Melina." She admitted quietly. "After my sister or mother. But… We'll see."
Justin nodded, sensing the depth of meaning behind her words. "And if it's a boy?"
"Maybe Alexei," Yelena said with a smirk. "My father deserves something for not being here to beat you up for defiling his little girl. Maybe a middle name either way, boy or girl."
Justin laughed. "You really don't hold back, do you? If anything I'd say you defile me."
"Never." Yelena leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table as she studied him. "What about you? Any grand ideas for how to handle your child?"
She was well aware already he wasn't father of the year material, but she sounded curious about his thoughts.
"Not really," Justin admitted, his tone casual but sincere. "I figure you'll have it covered. Besides, I'm not exactly the type for PTA meetings and diaper changes."
"I wouldn't want you anywhere near them," Yelena teased, but her smirk was affectionate. "You'd probably try to automate the whole process." Her smirk turned impish, "If it's a girl, I pity her, any boyfriend of hers is going to suffer."
"Don't tempt me, and besides, if she's anything like her mother, if it's a girl, she might have a girlfriend instead." Justin said with a chuckle. "But seriously, you're going to be a great mom. You've got the instincts for it already."
Yelena's eyes softened, and for a moment, the playful banter between them quieted. "Thanks," She murmured, her hand absently resting on her stomach.
Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of their meals, the cat girl server placing the plates and milkshakes on the table with a cheerful "Enjoy, nyah~!"
She leaned over the table right after, honest to god purring, as she spoke quietly, "This isn't a service usually on tap, but the eye in the sky told me you two might want to pet a kitty, ~nyah! Feel free to pick me!" She winked as she left the table with an extra sway to her ass.
They exchanged amused looks as they dug into their food. The atmosphere was warm, comfortable - a rare moment of peace in their otherwise chaotic lives. And if Justin wasn't massively misreading things, Yelena did in fact want to pet a kitty after their meal.
He really needed to find another reward for Nail for coming up with such amazing ideas.
About halfway through the meal, Justin's neural implant buzzed, signaling an incoming call from Sunil, one of the few who could get through his do not disturb. He held up a hand to Yelena. "Just one moment, sweetheart."
He accepted the call, Sunil Bakshi's voice filling his mind. "Sir, Namor has reached out and agreed to talks."
Justin's grip on his fork tightened slightly, his eyes narrowing. "Now? Of all times?"
How… Annoying.
He had been looking forward to the genocide.
"Yes, sir," Sunil confirmed. "He seems… Strangely willing to negotiate."
Justin exhaled sharply, annoyance flashing across his face. "It would have been so much simpler for me if he'd fought, or more fun at least. The damn Fishman waited until it was inconvenient to suddenly grow a brain."
Sunil remained silent, waiting for instructions. Justin leaned back in his seat, thinking quickly. "Set up the meeting in secret. No cameras. I don't want Namor pulling any stunts outside my control in case this is a feint of some sort."
He certainly wasn't going to go to Talokan, so Namor would have to come like a begging supplicant before his superior.
Perhaps the genocide wouldn't be off the table yet…
"Understood," Sunil replied.
The call ended, and Justin returned his attention to Yelena, who was watching him curiously. "Bad news?"
"Just annoying," Justin muttered, shaking his head. "Namor actually wants to talk."
Yelena raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking into a smirk. "Can't solve every problem by blowing it up, can you?" She teased, immediately identifying his irritation and its cause.
Was there anyone who knew him better than this woman?
"Don't tempt me," Justin said, echoing his earlier words. But this time, his smirk was tinged with frustration.
Yelena chuckled, leaning forward to steal a a bite from his plate. "You'll figure it out. You always do."
Justin smiled, the tension easing from his shoulders as he relaxed into the moment. For now, at least, he could enjoy the rest of their date.
Then he and Yelena could show a kitty just how bad of an idea it was to think she could keep up with them.
If Hela couldn't manage….
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Same day, Kamar-Taj.
The scent of incense drifted lazily through the air, mingling with the earthy fragrance of brewing tea from a nearby pot.
The Ancient One waited patiently, three extra cups already prepared.
Mordo, Wong, and Dr. Stephen Strange, her apprentice, entered the large chamber where the Ancient One awaited them. She sat cross-legged on a finely embroidered cushion, a delicate porcelain cup of tea cradled in her hands. Her calm, ageless gaze swept over the three men as they approached, her expression serene yet unreadable.
The Ancient One gave no sign of surprise as Mordo and Wong stopped before her, their faces shadowed with conflicting emotions. Strange, standing just slightly apart, shifted on his feet, his sharp eyes betraying the storm of questions swirling within him.
Recent events had unsettled them. As was often the case with the sorcerers of Kamar-Taj when meeting something which could not be easily quantified within a spell matrix.
"Mordo, Wong, Stephen," the Ancient One greeted them with the warmth of an old friend instead of that of a master. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"
Three cups were placed before them on the low table, and she raised an imperious eyebrow until they all reluctantly sat.
Mordo didn't waste time on pleasantries after being seated. His posture was rigid, his arms crossed tightly over his chest. "We're here because we have concerns, master," He said, voice measured but stern. "Concerns about Kamar-Taj's growing involvement with the material world - specifically with Justin Hammer."
This meeting certainly confirmed that she'd been right to not mention her humiliation to her students.
Not that she was overly bothered after it was over, it was simple flesh, and a simple humiliation, after which Justin Hammer got it out of his system and left them be.
An ideal outcome, really. Hence why she'd done nothing to protest.
But her students could still be so attached to immaterial things. As was the wont of the modern human.
Wong nodded in agreement to Mordo's words, though his expression was less severe. "Master, we've always stood apart from worldly conflicts. Our duty has been to safeguard mystical realms, to protect the fabric of reality. But now, we're sending sorcerers to assist Hammer's soldiers, guarding his infrastructure, even granting him protection spells."
Where does it end? Was his silent query, that she heard loud and clear. She simply hummed, sipping her tea, turning her gaze to Stephen.
You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.
Come to her early, but yet somehow still exactly the same as she'd envisioned.
Stephen's gaze didn't leave the Ancient One, though his voice was softer than Mordo's. Lacking the subtle recrimination. "Are we really comfortable with this? With propping up what is in effect, a dictatorship?"
The Ancient One remained silent for a moment, her eyes closing briefly as she inhaled the steam from her tea. When she opened them again, they shimmered with wisdom to them, twinkling in a way she'd picked up from a most amusing book on wizardry. "Your concerns are valid," She said, setting her cup down gently. "But they stem from a misunderstanding of the role we play - and the role Justin Hammer now plays in the grand design."
Mordo's brow furrowed. "A misunderstanding?"
"Yes," The Ancient One replied calmly. "We do not fight for Hammer. We fight for balance. We always have. In every age, there comes a force that threatens destruction, and we intervene to maintain the balance needed for life to flourish. Tell me, Mordo - when you put out a fire in the forest, do you do so to save the trees or the animals?"
Mordo hesitated. "Both," He admitted, though his voice was tight.
"And if you save the forest," She continued, "Do you control it? Do you dictate which way its branches grow or where its animals tread?"
"No," Wong answered, his eyes narrowing slightly. "But this isn't a forest fire. This is a man who controls nations with clear avarice and ambition."
"And who protects them," The Ancient One countered smoothly, her gaze unwavering. "Consider the state of the world before he rose to power. Constant war, corruption, governments failing their people. Tell me - how long would we have been able to safeguard this world from mystical incursions if its mortal guardians had destroyed it themselves?"
Justin Hammer had for good or worse, united humanity. But for Kamar-Taj, it was only good, as it lessened the risks to their remit, protecting Earth from those like Dormammu. A divided Earth was much easier to hide in, to attract followers in, to perform dark rituals with vile sacrifices in, hidden by the dark corners of the world.
A surveillance state might be morally wrong. but for them it only helped. Was it just? Perhaps not. But when protecting Earth from all things mystical, the concern was keeping eldritch beings from snacking on you, not whether or not your vote mattered.
Stephen rubbed the back of his neck. "It's true things have stabilized," He admitted reluctantly. "But stability can turn into stagnation, or worse, full blown cruel authoritarianism. And that isn't our fight maybe, but here we are, handing him our blessings."
The Ancient One's eyes sparkled with quiet amusement. "Stability is not the enemy, Stephen. It is the foundation from which growth emerges. You fear tyranny, and perhaps rightly so, but tell me this - what would you have us do instead? Withdraw entirely? Hide within Kamar-Taj as the world falls to chaos once more? Who benefits from that? Would you prefer we wait for chaos to knock on our doors again, forcing us to react rather than stand prepared with allies backing us?"
Stephen sighed but didn't answer immediately, the weight of her logic settling on him.
Wong shifted uncomfortably. "I understand the need to prevent chaos, Master, but do you trust Hammer? He may have brought peace, but peace built on such power often crumbles under its own weight, inviting the chaos you wish to avoid either way."
The Ancient One leaned forward slightly, her gaze intensifying. "I trust him to do what is necessary to protect the world, even if it means making difficult choices. That is why we do not aspire to rule alongside him. We are not politicians or conquerors. Our role is to advise, to safeguard against mystical threats, and to ensure that this stability endures long enough for the world to evolve. And should Hammer's reign turn to tyranny, it will not be by our hand. Yet a tyrant is not so bad, compared to what we fight, no?"
Mordo's jaw tightened, but he couldn't deny the wisdom in her words. "And what of Asgards Godess of Death, Hela?" He pressed. "You know she's a loose cannon. Hammer has her wreaking havoc across the galaxy. Doesn't that concern you? Will that not bring threats to our door?"
The Ancient One smiled faintly, taking a small sip of tea before speaking. "Hela's destiny in Ragnarok was written long before Justin Hammer ever set foot in Asgard's shadows. She is a force of nature, Mordo, one that even gods struggled to contain. The fact that she is currently wreaking havoc among slavers and criminals rather than threatening Earth speaks to Hammer's understanding of how to redirect destruction rather than allow himself to be enamored with it."
She and Odin had a understanding either way. She did not interfere in Asgards minor meddling on Earth, and Odin did not interfere in Kamar-Taj. The one eyed God was even amenable to assist should the Dark Dimension spill over. Hela as far as she was concerned fell under her agreement with Odin.
Stephen folded his arms, skepticism still evident on his face. "So you think he can control her forever?"
"No," The Ancient One admitted with a touch of sadness. "But I do not believe he seeks to. Control is an illusion. What he seeks is management - guiding dangerous forces toward productive outlets. In this, he mirrors our own teachings. We do not destroy dark magic simply for existing; we contain it, understand it, and use it to prevent greater harm through our understanding."
Wong tapped his fingers on his thigh, his brow furrowed in thought. "You're saying that by working with Hammer, we're preventing larger catastrophes that would have come about without a united Earth?"
"Yes," She said simply. "And we are gaining something invaluable in return - allies. Should an interdimensional incursion occur, we will not face it alone. Hammer's forces, his technology, and his use of the Power Stone could mean the difference between victory and annihilation."
As could his divine attachment to humanity as a concept. But she was already overwhelming them with enough without bringing divinity to the table.
Stephen's lips pressed into a thin line. "And if he turns that power against us?"
The Ancient One reached for her tea once more, sipping it delicately before setting it down. "Then we will do as we have always done - adapt. But for now, Hammer does not see us as enemies, nor do we see him as one. The world is in a rare state of peace, and peace is fertile ground for growth, healing, and understanding, no matter who rules it."
Silence fell over the chamber as the three men absorbed her words. The lanterns on the wall behind her casting shadows across their contemplative faces.
Finally, Mordo exhaled, his posture softening slightly. "I still don't like it."
You never will, she thought sadly.
"You're not meant to," She said out loud with a gentle smile. "Change is never comfortable, especially when it challenges our ideals. But remember this. The greatest mistake a guardian can make is refusing to see when the world is shifting beneath their feet."
Wong nodded slowly, though hesitation lingered in his gaze. "I understand, Master."
Stephen remained silent for a moment longer before finally speaking. "I'm not convinced," He admitted, "but I'll trust you."
The Ancient One's smile widened slightly, and she inclined her head. "That is all I ask."
With that, she took another sip of tea, savoring its warmth as her students pondered their next steps. For now, at least, the balance was preserved.
The future?
It was delightfully cloudy now.
----------------------------------------
August 1st, 2010, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
The midday sun cast its warm glow over the sprawling campus nestled just a stone's throw away from the prestigious halls of MIT. The new James Rhodes School for Heroes gleamed with fresh polish, its glass and steel architecture seamlessly blending with pockets of greenery and open spaces designed for both academic study and physical training.
The central quad buzzed with energy as potential students, faculty, media personnel, and invited guests gathered, murmuring in anticipation of the speech inaugurating the building.
Built in a month, no less. Hammer Industries wasting no expense, Stark industries chipping in with a large donation.
On a raised podium, Tony Stark adjusted his tie, his gaze sweeping over the crowd before landing briefly on the massive bronze statue of James "Rhodey" Rhodes positioned at the heart of the quad. The statue depicted him mid-flight in his War Machine armor, a reminder of the courage and sacrifice the man had embodied.
You would have acted like you hated this, while secretly being thrilled about it, he thought with some melancholy.
Justin stood nearby, nodding politely to key figures in attendance. To his side, Jessica Jones waited, sunglasses perched on her head, the new headmistress of the school showing a quiet air of confidence and strength.
Tony cleared his throat, stepping forward to the podium. As the murmurs subsided, he began, his voice calm but carrying the weight of deep emotion.
"When I think of heroes, I think of a man who didn't ask to be celebrated or recognized. James Rhodes was a hero long before he put on the War Machine armor. Back when it was just him and me, with me causing problems and Rhodey cleaning up after me. He always did that, you know - clean up after my messes."
A soft chuckle rippled through the crowd, lightening the somber atmosphere momentarily.
"Rhodey was more than a soldier or a man in a suit of armor. He was a man who believed in doing what was right, even when it was hard. Especially when it was hard. When Magneto and his forces turned the world upside down, Rhodey knew he was walking into what would likely be his last mission. But did he hesitate? Not once."
Tony paused, taking a moment to compose himself, exhaling through his nose as the memories swirled around him.
"He knew what was at stake, not just for him, but for everyone. And he still flew in because that's who he was. He didn't fight because he had to. He fought because he wanted to protect people. It wasn't about being a superhero. It was about being a good person."
A wave of applause broke out, and Tony stepped back for a moment, letting the noise wash over him before continuing.
"James Rhodes wasn't born with powers. He didn't wake up one day with a destiny written in the stars. He built himself into a hero. And that's what this school is about. It's about giving the next generation the tools they need to protect others, to inspire others, and to make a difference. Whether they're flying through the skies or or becoming a super therapist - they'll do it with Rhodey's spirit as their guide."
Tony's voice dropped slightly, turning more intimate as he added, "We named this school after him not because of how he died, but because of how he lived. With heart, courage, and the belief that one person can make a difference."
The crowd erupted into applause once more, some wiping away tears as Tony nodded solemnly, stepping away from the podium. Justin clapped beside him, leaning in briefly.
"You nailed it."
This jerk doesn't have a sensitive bone in his body, Tony thought with some exasperation, yet unable to stop a slight smirk from appearing, the familiar routine immediately shaking off some of his malaise.
Jessica Jones extended her hand, her grip firm as she shook Tony's hand for the cameras.
"Let's make sure this place does Colonel Rhodes proud," She said, her voice low but full of conviction.
Tony nodded. "You have big shoes to fill, headmistress."
Justin took his turn, shaking hands with both Tony and Jessica, posing briefly for the press before the three of them began to disperse. As Tony and Justin walked toward the campus entrance, Domino followed a few paces behind, her sharp gaze scanning the surroundings for potential threats.
Tony glanced back at her. "You know, she's really overkill."
"Would you prefer a sudden case of unaliving?" Justin quipped.
Tony snorted. "No, I like living. Just making an observation."
As they passed one of the school's newly constructed dormitories, Tony tilted his head toward Jessica's retreating figure. "Isn't she a bit young to be running this place?"
Justin smirked. "She has good instincts, super strength, and - most importantly - she'll steer the idiots who enroll here into investigative work instead of charging into battle and punching everything in sight. When she started her hero career, she somehow ended up creating a private eye agency for street level superheroes, investigating crimes beyond the police, so she's level headed. Besides, she's got Charles Xavier as a consultant if she ever needs advice. He's on the board."
Tony raised an eyebrow. "Xavier, huh? That's a hell of a resource."
"Also, I slept with her sister, so I'm keeping it in the family." Justin added as an afterthought.
"Alright, now that I believe." Tony said with a shake of his head.
They continued walking, moving toward the section of the campus dedicated to engineering and technological work for those heroes so inclined. Tony smiling in memory of his time at MIT with Rhodey as they passed the building.
"Let's talk Pym particles," Tony said soon afterwards, rubbing his hands together. "Banner's been a massive help. We're days - maybe a week away - from cracking miniaturization without needing to ration Pym particles."
Justin grinned happily. "That's the best news I've heard all day."
Tony pulled up a hologram of the starship he'd been designing when he had a moment between work and Pepper moving on from the particles already in his excitement. "Once we get the space dock operational, we can begin building this beauty. She'll be the first homegrown lady in Earth's defense fleet."
Justin whistled, studying the design. "Tell me what you're thinking."
Tony flicked his wrist, and the hologram shifted to display the ship's outer hull. The dark design was not too dissimilar from a Star Wars star destroyer, without the dumbass bridge. It shimmered under the simulated light, giving the vessel an almost predatory appearance.
"Vibranium-alloy for the outermost layer," Tony confirmed. "It'll give us resistance against kinetic impacts and small-scale energy weapons from fighters. But we're also adding an adaptive energy-dissipation system underneath. Think of it like a flexible, reactive skin. It absorbs energy blasts and redistributes the force, reducing overall damage."
Justin whistled softly. "Impressive. Expensive as hell, but impressive."
Tony grinned. "Hey, you're the richest man on the planet. If anyone can afford it, you can."
"Sounds like overkill," Justin remarked snarkily, echoing Tonys earlier words, though his tone suggested approval.
Tony smirked. "There's no such thing when you're dealing with the wider universe."
They walked further, the conversation shifting seamlessly from shield harmonics to crew capacity and training programs. The two men, innovators in their own right, fed off each other's energy, pushing ideas forward with every step.
Justin nodded approvingly minutes later. "Alright, you've sold me on the design. But I still think it's premature to start training a crew when we haven't even started building the damn thing."
Tony made a dismissive motion, "Why? The ship's core system is finalized. Sure, there might be some minor tweaks during construction, but the core systems won't change. We know what the crew will need to learn, so why wait?"
Justin frowned, tapping his fingers against his leg. "It just feels… Off. Training people for a ship that doesn't exist yet."
Not to mention he knew Tony, and by the time the ship started construction, the blueprint would have been upgraded ten times over..
Tony shrugged. "That's what simulators are for. We'll create virtual environments where they can run through scenarios, learn the ship's layout, and get familiar with the controls. By the time the ship is built, they'll be experts."
Justin considered that for a moment. "And you're confident the simulators will be accurate?"
Tony grinned. "I'm Tony Stark. I don't do half-measures."
Justin chuckled, shaking his head. "Fine. But if this backfires and we have a crew that thinks they know what they're doing but ends up crashing the ship, I'm holding you personally responsible."
He'd eat his tie if Tony didn't have an improvement already thought up before they built the first simulator…
"Trust me, what's the worst that could happen?" Tony said, spreading his arms wide.
"Domino, record this for posterity, so I can blame Stark when our first ship becomes a black hole and devours Earth."
----------------------------------------
The next day, Hammerhaven.
Justin strode forward, flanked by Emma Frost and Domino, having just portaled in, having been off overseeing Storm begin recruitment for a metahuman division for the Federations planetary defense first response force.
Namor had arrived for his appointment, so it was time to see if king fishstick had truly managed to swallow his pride.
Justin glanced toward Emma, his gaze assessing. Her pristine white suit hugged her figure perfectly, heels clicking softly on the floor as she kept pace with him, her demeanor cool and controlled. He arched an eyebrow, offering a faint smirk. "I hope you're intelligent enough to understand why you're along for this, Emma."
She was a competent underling, but her demeanor made him just want to rub everything in her face all the time.
Emma's lips curved into a small, irritable twist, as she returned his gaze, one perfectly arched brow rising in response. "Oh, don't worry. I'm aware, sir." Her voice was smooth and laced with just enough condescension to remind him she wasn't one of his women. "And don't concern yourself. If Namor is plotting or planning to break the deal he's here to make, you'll be the first to know."
Justin chuckled softly, satisfied for the moment. They approached the reinforced door ahead, the steel sliding open with a whisper of hydraulics. Inside, the room was well-lit and minimalist, Sunil Bakshi sat at the end of the long conference table, hands folded neatly in front of him.
Across the room, Namor, the king of Talokan, sat stiffly, his piercing gaze locked onto Justin the moment he entered. There was no warmth in those eyes, only the simmering resentment of a man who despised everything about this meeting. His delegation, composed of Talokan warriors in ceremonial looking armor, flanked him in silence, their expressions stoic but their presence heavy with implied threat.
A pointless gesture, as Emma alone could fry their brains before they as much as twitched.
Domino leaned in slightly toward Justin as they walked in. "Is it me, or is the whole 'glaring death at you' thing starting early today? I had it scheduled for five 'o clock.
Justin chuckled, "Never change, Domino."
She preened, "Why would I? I'm perfect."
Emma gave her a look of pure irritation, to which Domino maturely responded by sticking her tongue out.
Namor rose to his feet, his movement fluid despite the tension in his shoulders. His regal armor clung to him like a second skin, as he crossed his arms over his chest as he addressed the room, his voice rich with disdain. "Before we begin, let me make something clear surface dwellers." He began pacing, his bare feet padding across the cold floor. "The people of Talokan are proud. We do not bend easily, and we do not forgive betrayal or disrespect, we have a rich history, one we've built all on our own, with our own hands. This is not a surrender, just an acknowledgement of necessity."
Justin leaned back in his chair, arms draped lazily over the armrests as if he were enjoying a casual conversation over drinks. "Are you done stroking yourself, or are we getting to the point sometime today?" His tone was laced with enough condescension to make Sunil briefly glance his, hiding a sigh.
Namor growled low in his throat, the sound more beast than man. His nostrils flared, but he sat down, his fists clenching as he leaned forward slightly. "Fine," He spat, his voice like venom. "We accept the proposal. Talokan's people and as much Vibranium as we can transport will be transferred to another planet, one with little surface and minimal interference from dry-landers. But make no mistake, I chose this, you did not force me here."
Justin's lips twitched in amusement as he leaned forward slightly. "Morag is lovely this time of year, he said, ignoring the way Namor's jaw tightened at how casual he was. "And the local fauna? Well, they're probably big enough to swallow a person whole with ease. But you and your people are warriors, right? You'll manage."
Morag was the choice simply because he knew it had a lot of water. He didn't want to waste time hunting down a new planet. Namor could take it or leave it.
The Talokan king glared daggers at him, but he didn't rise to the bait. Instead, he exhaled slowly, shoulders relaxing slightly as he looked to his delegation. "Talokan is not a place," He said quietly almost to himself, though his words carried weight. "It's a people. We can rebuild elsewhere. I will not cause the death of my people due to pride."
There was a bitterness in the way he said it, a venom that hinted at how much it pained him to take this route. Justin recognized that tone well - he'd heard it from men forced to make impossible choices, they just never somehow made the right choice.
Yet, here they were.
What a novel thing. He supposed he could live without one last genocide…
"You're making the smart call," Justin said, leaning back again. "Not the easy one, but the smart one."
Namor said nothing. He didn't need to. The tension in his body spoke volumes about how much this decision cost him personally. If he didn't have his people to think about, Justin had no doubt Namor would have gladly chosen a fight.
"Well then," Justin continued, brushing imaginary dust off his suit. "We have a deal. My people will transfer you and yours through the portals, along with whatever belongings you can carry. Once you're settled, I suggest you focus on making sure you don't actually get eaten by any alien whales or something, it would be a shame."
Namor gave a curt nod but didn't rise. His glare remained fixed on Justin, as if memorizing his every feature so he could curse him later.
As the Talokan delegation began to leave, Justin added, "You might be the one adversary I can actually respect." And he meant it too.
Namor stopped, his back straight but his shoulders tense. He slowly turned, his gaze narrowing. "What did you say?"
Justin shrugged, meeting his gaze without flinching. "You hate me. That's fine - most of my enemies do, and some of my friends. But unlike them, you went beyond your hate and chose your people. You're the only one of my enemies who's done that, and frankly, that's impressive." He smirked slightly. "Good on you. I hope you manage to survive."
Namor stared at him for a moment longer, his expression unreadable. Without a word, he turned and left, his warriors falling into formation behind him.
As the door closed, Justin exhaled, leaning back once more. His gaze shifted toward Emma, who had remained silent throughout most of the meeting.
Emma smoothed her white gloves, her gaze thoughtful. "He never once lied," She said softly. "He hates you and wants nothing more than to kill you. But he loves his people more than he hates you."
Justin grunted, his fingers drumming against the armrest. "I almost feel slighted." He should be the number one priority on anyone's mind.
Domino, who had been leaning casually against the wall, smirked. "Don't worry. You'll always have the Middle East if you're looking for belligerance."
Justin groaned, rubbing his temples. "Fuck the Middle East. It's a pain in my ass. It's going to take decades to get them up to speed with the rest of the planet. They drag their feet on every little change."
Emma's lips twitched into a smirk. "I don't know why you're complaining." She said, belatedly adding a, "Sir," The last word tacked on with faint sarcasm. "You're not the one spending hours and days fighting bureaucrats and politicans to upgrade even basic roads, they'll fight me even on tne most minor tweaks."
"Ah, yes, I forgot that was your problem." Justin said, his smirk returning. "Suddenly, I feel much better. Domino, let's get pizza from Naples, Sunil, you in?"
Sunil shook his head, rising to collect his tablet. "I have work, sir. Someone made me the President of a major nation…"
Emma folded her arms, giving them both a withering look. "I suppose I'm not invited?"
Justin gave her a faux-sympathetic look. "Sorry, fully booked." Uncaring that the lie was obvious, having just asked Sunil.
Emma was just so perfectly bullyable.
Her eyes narrowed, as she let out a drawn out sigh. "Can I tender my resignation?"
"Once you're done your current job, sure." He agreed amicably.
"Latest projections say it's going to take 23 and a half years to fully build up the infrastructure across the entirety of Earth unless you release Pym particles for everything..." She said crossly.
"Sorry." Justin said insincerely, "Infrastructure is at the bottom of the list, since some of it will invariably blow up whenever we get invaded."
"Insincere bastard," Emma muttered under her breath.
Justin just gave her a wave as he exited the room to go eat pizza and shock some local business owner by suddenly appearing in their humble pizzeria.
It was good to be him.
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Savage Lands, August 6th, 2010.
The portal closed behind Justin, leaving him standing amidst the chaotic hum of a burgeoning military base. He adjusted the cuffs of his suit jacket, the humidity causing his shirt to cling slightly to his skin as he surveyed the scene. Around him, the base pulsed with life - soldiers moving in formation, engineers directing machinery, everything humming with the effort of transforming the wild terrain into something controlled and productive.
The Savage Land stretched endlessly beyond the perimeter of the camp, thick with prehistoric trees, enormous ferns, and wildlife that would have been extinct anywhere else. Here, dinosaurs roamed freely alongside strange humanoid natives. But not for long, if his plans came to fruition.
He might keep a zoo or something, just for his own amusement.
"Mr. Hammer," Brock Rumlow greeted, his boots crunching against the hard-packed dirt as he approached. He was dressed in combat gear, his tactical vest laden with grenades and ammunition, a rifle slung over his back.
"Welcome to the jungle," He said with a smirk, his hand gesturing toward the expanse around them. "Sorry to say the suit is a bit banged up, so I'm all natural at the moment."
Justin's gaze swept across the camp, noting the soldiers patrolling the perimeter and the construction vehicles ripping through the dense foliage. Heavy machinery rolled over the underbrush, crushing everything in its path. Watchtowers stood at regular intervals, manned by soldiers who scanned the jungle with cold efficiency. Drones buzzed overhead like mechanical bees, their cameras feeding information back to the command tents.
Domino followed closely behind Justin, her presence as casual as ever, but her sharp eyes missed nothing. He didn't necessarily need a bodyguard anymore, but she apparently got antsy if he sent her away too many times.
"I see you've been making progress," Justin commented, his voice calm but carrying an undertone of satisfaction. "It's a far cry from the reports of a stalemate a few weeks ago."
Apparently they had simply lacked some… Brutality. He supposed it was normal for soldiers who had grown up with the Geneva convention. They'd have to adjust the simulators.
Brock nodded, his expression darkening slightly as he led them past a group of soldiers unloading crates of equipment. "Yeah, it was rough in the beginning. The jungle's a nightmare for conventional tactics, and some of our boys weren't ready for it, even after retraining. But once we took the gloves off - " He gestured toward a distant plume of smoke rising beyond the tree line. "The natives didn't stand a chance."
They passed a soldier shouting orders to a unit of workers as they dismantled a small village built into the trees. The settlement had clearly seen better days - huts burned, crude weapons scattered, and bodies being cleared away as part of the cleanup efforts. The natives of the Savage Land, humanoids with reptilian features and primitive weapons, had been formidable in their knowledge of the terrain. But they weren't invincible.
The hulking brutes carrying weapons juiced up from celestial tech had been the major issue, but further reports had shown that they were a minority. The reports he'd received told of the Vulture and Scorpion crushing them.
"You're making short work of them now," Justin observed, pausing to watch a group of soldiers escorting a line of prisoners that would be transferred to Helen Cho to be examined. The natives shuffled forward, their eyes filled with a mix of fear and defiance.
"Frank and I don't play by the rules, and once the troops got with the program things eased up. Between him and me, we've broken their morale. No more waiting for ambushes. No more skirmishes we can't finish because we're not willing to burn down everything around us. We push forward, clear them out, and destroy their strongholds with extreme prejudice."
Justin nodded approvingly. "Good. The sooner we clear this place, the better. The Savage is a gold mine." He looked over at Domino, who was watching the soldiers with mild disinterest.
"What do you think, Dom? Soldier boys doing it for you?"
She shrugged, her smirk widening. "It's getting there. I'll be impressed when they can clear a section without needing Frank or Brock to hold their hands." She mocked.
Brock chuckled, leading them past another cluster of tents where medics were examining native corpses. "Give them time. They're learning."
As they approached the command tent, Justin noticed several crates marked with the insignia of salvaged tech. His eyes gleamed with interest as he paused to inspect one. The lid had been removed, revealing fragments of strange metallic circuitry that pulsed faintly with residual energy even while disassembled.
"Celestial tech," Brock said, following Justin's gaze. "We've been pulling it from their villages and outposts. The natives were using it to power weapons and defenses, but they didn't know how to properly control it, the nerds say they weren't even using half of its potential. They were lucky not to blow themselves up."
Justin crouched down, running a hand over one of the glowing fragments. "It's incredible, isn't it? The things they were sitting on without even realizing the value. With this kind of tech Sinister was able to compete with the worst and best of the world. The things we could do with it if we discover it's secrets…"
"We've already shipped a few loads through the portals," Brock added. "Forge and Vanko are like kids in a candy store back at the lab. They're tearing through this stuff."
"Make sure every last piece of it gets back to them," Justin ordered, standing up and dusting off his hands. "No delays, no excuses. We can't afford to let anything slip through the cracks."
Brock nodded firmly. "Understood."
Justin straightened his jacket, his mind already racing with possibilities. Celestial technology combined with vibranium and adamantium? The potential was limitless. "Speaking of resources, what have we found in terms of raw materials? Vibranium, adamantium - anything else worth noting?"
Brock gestured toward a series of excavation sites visible in the distance. "We've hit several deposits of vibranium already. Small, but significant. We're still scouting for larger sourcex. As for adamantium, we've detected traces, but we haven't pinpointed a major source yet - according to prisoners it's created by a machine but they don't know where. The jungle makes it slow going, but we'll get there."
Justin's lips curved into a satisfied smile. "Good. Once we have enough vibranium and adamantium, it will push us even further ahead of our future enemies. The Savage Land is going to be the foundation of our future."
They continued walking, passing a team of engineers assembling what looked like a portable power generator. Nearby, soldiers loaded crates onto transport vehicles that would be driven through the portals and back to Hammer facilities.
"Once the resources are extracted, what's the long-term plan?" Brock asked, glancing at Justin.
"We tear this jungle down," Justin said without hesitation. "Turn it into farmland or something useful. It's the perfect testing ground for our agricultural experiments. We've already made strides in boosting crop yields, but with this biome, we could push it even further. The Savage Land will be a resource in every sense of the word - minerals, tech, agriculture. Nothing goes to waste."
"And the natives?" Brock asked, grinning darkly.
Justin didn't even blink. "Eliminate them."
Brock smiled, pleased. "Understood."
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August 11th, 2010, Hammerhaven
The room was cloaked in shadow, the only light seeping through the gaps in the blinds casting faint, broken lines across the polished mahogany desk. The air was cool and still, save for the quiet hum of the building's ventilation. It was late. Or early. Justin wasn't sure which anymore - he didn't check the time, and he didn't care to. His hand trembled slightly as he traced the edges of the photo resting between his fingers, the glossy surface worn smooth in places where he had touched it too often.
Hope Van Dyne smiled back at him from a moment frozen in time. Her face, radiant and full of life, was framed by soft waves of brown hair, and her eyes - those eyes - seemed to twinkle with a spark that had always drawn him in, back when things had been... Simpler.
Simpler wasn't the right word perhaps, but at least back then, he could have still played at being human.
With recent events, and what was coming… She was in his thoughts more than ever.
"I'm sorry," He whispered, his voice barely audible. The words clung to the darkness around him, desperate and raw. "I'm so sorry, Hope."
His one real regret. His biggest failure. And with what he was planning, it almost felt like another betrayal to do what he was doing.
Silly perhaps, but it was why he was sitting here, examining his emotions, his memories.
He leaned back in his chair, the leather creaking under him as he stared at the picture like it could answer him, like it could undo the years of choices and consequences that now separated them even should he succeed in bringing her back.
Nowadays? Justin Hammer, the god of humanity, savior of Earth, and ruler of nations, wasn't even sure if his heart beat the same way it had back then.
"You wouldn't recognize me," He said somewhat bitterly, brushing his thumb over her image. "Hell, you probably wouldn't want to."
Her death had been the beginning of his metamorphosis, of him taking the final step, just like the Ancient One had wanted. Apocalypse had taken her in a world-shattering moment, and he hadn't been able to stop it. He'd failed her. Not just by losing her, but by everything that had come after.
It had been necessary, and now, after it all, he wasn't sure he would make a different choice, which was an even larger betrayal of how he'd felt for her.
"I thought I could be better for you, if we ended up together." He admitted to the photo, to himself. "I thought I'd build something you'd be proud of eventually, that you'd be on my side once you saw the necessity. Save the world the right way. But... I didn't build it for you, did I? I built it for me."
The dark room seemed to press closer around him, suffocating and oppressive, as he leaned forward and buried his face in his hands, the photo still clutched tightly. His breath came slow and weary, the emotions he kept buried clawing their way to the surface.
He hadn't dealt with it, all this time.
He'd loved her. He was certain of it now, even if he hadn't fully realized it back then. He'd been too consumed by his ambitions, too blind to the depth of what they'd had until it was too late. Until she was gone, and all he could do was replay their moments together in his mind like a broken record.
"Would you hate me now?" He asked softly, lifting his head and meeting her gaze in the photo once more. "For what I've done?"
He let the question hang in the air, though he already knew the answer. Hope had been principled, compassionate, and fiercely loyal to her family despite her frustrations. And he'd destroyed that family. He'd dismantled Pym Industries piece by piece and handed the scraps to Tony Stark. He'd orchestrated Hank Pym's death, ensuring the man would never be a threat to him.
Would she ever forgive him for that? No, he thought bitterly. She wouldn't.
But she'd be alive one day, he'd ensure it. She would be back.
That's what mattered. He could bring her back. He would bring her back, no matter the cost. The Ancient One had warned him against meddling with time, but Justin didn't care. He'd defied gods, rewritten the fate of nations, and risen to power beyond anyone's wildest dreams. He could do this too. He had to do this.
One day.
Even if she never spoke to him again. Even if she hated him for eternity.
"I'll fix this," He whispered, almost as an apology. "I don't care if you never look at me again, if you leave the second you're back. You'll be back. That's the only thing that matters."
"I didn't forget you," He said softly to the picture. "Even when I tried. Even when it was easier to pretend you weren't haunting me."
He leaned back in his chair, the weight of the confession leaving him drained. The room felt heavier now, like it had absorbed the emotions he'd let out and refused to let them go. The silence was deafening, but he welcomed it.
Slowly, he placed the photo back on the desk, smoothing it out gently before leaning forward, his elbows resting on the polished surface. He had needed to do this. To delve into his emotions, to the hurt and anger and fear he'd hidden away.
He'd needed to lance the boil, this wasn't something he could keep carrying into the future. It wouldn't be fair.
He was turning a new chapter, he couldn't let Hope and his buried feelings ruin things.
Hope… I'll save you one day…
Not for myself, but because you deserve to live a happy full life…
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August 14th, 2010, Hammerhaven.
The air was cool and crisp on the balcony of Justin's room in Hammerhaven. From this height, the city glittered below them, its lights stretching as far as the eye could see, the pulse of humanity in its most efficient form. Above them, the night sky was a sea of infinite stars, the darkness wrapping around the two figures standing on the balcony.
Justin stood behind Yelena, his arms encircling her waist, holding her gently yet securely. His chin rested on her shoulder, the warmth of his breath brushing against her neck. She leaned into him, her hands resting over his arms, their fingers loosely intertwined. The silence between them wasn't awkward - it was warm, shared, and comforting, a moment that needed no words.
"You're unusually quiet tonight," Yelena murmured, her voice soft yet playful. "Not that I'm complaining. It's nice." Her gaze was on the stars, her lips curved in a small, content smile. "But it's not like you to just stand here without some world-altering plan brewing in that head of yours."
Justin smirked against her shoulder, pressing a soft kiss there. "I have a plan, alright. But tonight, it's not about changing the world. Although it is world changing perhaps."
"Oh?" She tilted her head slightly, side-eyeing him. "Then why are we still standing here?"
"Just wait for it," He whispered into her ear, his tone low, sending a small shiver down her spine.
Yelena was about to ask what exactly she was waiting for when the first explosion of light bloomed across the sky like fireworks, vivid and brilliant against the dark canvas. Her breath caught as the second followed, then a third, each blast of color forming shimmering letters in the night sky.
YELENA
Her mouth fell open, her mind racing as the next explosion of light followed.
WILL
"You didn't…" She whispered, disbelief and awe filling her voice.
YOU
Her fingers tightened around his as she watched the letters continue to form.
MARRY
She turned in his arms, her wide eyes locking on his.
ME
The final word burst in a kaleidoscope of light, painting the sky with its brilliance. Yelena's lips trembled, her breath hitching as tears began to pool in her eyes. She faced him fully, her heart pounding so hard she thought he might hear it. Her gaze dropped, and that's when she saw it.
Justin was holding out an exquisite ring, the jewel catching the starlight. His expression was warm, loving, but there was a seriousness in his eyes, a vulnerability hidden beneath his usual confidence.
"Every Emperor needs an Empress," He said softly, his voice steady yet filled with emotion. "You've never once hesitated, never wavered. You've been my confidant, my partner, my lover, and my best friend. I'm the God Emperor," He added with a playful smile, "So I won't kneel, but please, Yelena Hammer, Empress of Earth - accept this ring and be mine forever."
The tears spilled freely now, glistening trails running down her cheeks. She tried to speak, but her throat tightened, her emotions crashing over her like waves. Finally, she managed to choke out, "Yes… Of course, yes."
Her hand trembled as she extended it, allowing him to slide the ring onto her finger. The band was warm against her skin, as though it held the heat of his love, the stone glowing faintly in the dim light.
"You're shaking," Justin murmured, brushing his thumb over her knuckles.
"I'm crying," She corrected, giggling through the tears. "And you're such an ass, you waited until August so Domino wouldn't win the pool didn't you?"
Justin chuckled, his eyes never leaving hers. "Would I do that?" Before switching the subject."The ring is made of Uru, the same metal used to craft Mjolnir." He brushed his fingers over the band as he spoke. "The jewels? One of a kind. Bought off Asgardian traders after they scavenged it from the remains of a collapsed star. These don't even have a name yet. They're that rare."
Yelena let out a watery laugh, swiping at her tears with the back of her hand. "Of course, you'd get me something from a collapsed star. You couldn't settle for something normal, could you?"
"Never," He said, his voice low and intimate. "You deserve more than normal. You deserve the universe."
Her gaze softened, her fingers curling around his. "And what about the fireworks in space? How did you pull that off?"
Justin smirked, clearly pleased with himself. "Added a few dozen extra satellites to the orbital defense net, preloaded them with the materials for the display. They've been waiting for this moment."
She gasped, her eyes wide. "You mean this proposal cost -"
"Around 15 billion dollars," Justin finished with a grin.
Yelena playfully smacked his chest, her laughter filling the air. "You insane, wonderful nerd."
As the last flickers of light faded from the sky, Justin cupped her face, his thumb tracing the curve of her cheek. "Only for you, Yelena."
Her lips met his, the kiss deep, warm, and filled with promise. She clung to him as though grounding herself, the enormity of the moment sinking in. When they finally pulled back, her forehead rested against his, their breaths mingling.
"Dummy," She mumbled against his lips, earning another chuckle.
But as she looked down at the ring on her finger, her tears began anew, though this time they weren't just tears of joy. They were tears of relief, of hope. She had found her place, her home, and her forever - all in the arms of a man who saw her not as a weapon, not as a Black Widow - but as Yelena.
Justin brushed his fingers through her hair, his voice soft. "You're mine now, Yelena Hammer."
"And you're mine," She whispered. "Forever."
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