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May 10th, 2010.
While the refurbished former Red Room station had been cloaked and launched into space as Justin's secret space station/orbital weapon - there had also been another built to replace the international space station in cooperation with Stark. One without the cloak or massive armaments, made for research primarily, and as a stepping stone to begin crafting a space dock.
Stark had been against the frivolity of adding a ballroom space to the station, and tonight Justin was proving him wrong as usual.
His friends, minions and affiliates all invited for a grand party as they watched the defense net around Earth come into place.
Every detail had been meticulously planned by Yelena, Emma Frost and Phantazia to exude wealth and indulgence - a showcase of how they were all the most powerful people on Earth. The grand ballroom hall was vast, its polished metallic floors used as a dance floor as an Orchestra portaled in for the occasion played classical music. Lush carpets covered the rest of the floor, tables laden with food, fountains of champagne, chocolate, and even Asgardian mead, available for sampling.
Intermingled with all of it, were cozy seating areas with only a few seats, so that the guests could split into groups and have a good time in a somewhat private manner.
Androids in black uniforms, completely controlled by Nail, moved seamlessly through the crowd, offering glasses of Asgardian and similarly alien spirits and exotic cocktails.
Based on the Sentinel program, but without the same armaments and adaptive abilities, they made perfect servants - as Nail could easily pilot them, and they wouldn't risk human servants hearing something they shouldn't.
Above all, the view stole the show. One entire wall of the hall was a massive window, a reinforced expanse of transparent material that offered an uninterrupted view of space. The view of their home, their planet, the home of humanity and their burgeoning empire.
But it wasn't just Earth that held everyone's attention - it was the constant flashes of light. Every few moments, a new defense satellite was launched from Earth, streaking through the void to join its brethren in orbit.
On the wall opposite the window, a digital counter ticked steadily upward, marking each new addition to Earth's orbital defenses. The glowing numbers read 247 as another flash illuminated the vastness outside. Guests would pause mid-conversation to glance at the counter, some cheering or raising their glasses in a toast.
Everyone that was in someway affiliated with his business empire were present.
In one corner, the Ancient One and Pepper Potts conversed, trying to ignore the snark off between Doctor Strange and Tony Stark. The two men, if one were to take a brief glance, seemed to loathe each other. But if one were to pay closer attention, the science versus magic debate sprinkled with snark and innuendos, showed more of a burgeoning friendship between the intellectually superior men.
All around them, his minions and allies were having a blast. In one corner, his newly acquired team member, Felicia Hardy, was heavily flirting with Frank Castle… And his wife.
To his obvious chagrin, and his wife's very clear amusement.
He tried to ignore the gaggle of black widows surrounding Helen Cho and Kaecillius, nothing good would come from that, but he'd rather not know either way.
He looked around for some of the other team members, raising an eyebrow as Electro was being lead out - more like dragged out - of the ballroom by Rogue, who'd jumped ship from the X-Men to join Jean at UNESCO.
Good for him, he thought, even as he wondered how that happened. If anything he would have thought she'd jump on Forge for solving her issues…
Bucky, he knew, was still babysitting Steve and had chosen not to come, but he couldn't see Brock, Vanko or Forge anywhere either, which likely meant they'd stolen some mead and gone to get plastered…
He really couldn't take Vanko anywhere, the brute. At least his wife had known what she was getting into… She was also conspicuous with her absence, likely joining her husband and his friends.
At least Octavius seemed to enjoy himself away from his usual comrades, dancing with his wife and looking perfectly happy.
Justin himself stood near the window, a glass of Vanaheim spirits in hand. The golden liquid swirled in the crystalline glass, its faintly glowing hue reflecting the light from the stars. Even he had to admit, this drink was something special. Capable of giving even him, with his enhanced physiology, a pleasant buzz.
He watched the satellites with satisfaction, his lips quirking into a faint smirk every time the counter ticked up. They'd be practically out of pym particles until Stark and Banner had a breakthrough, but it was worth it to get the defense net up and running.
"A boring view for a boring party, where's the revels, the debauchery?" came a voice from behind him, low and sultry.
Hela.
She sauntered up to him, her movements languid yet purposeful. Her dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, her leather attire hugging her form like a second skin. Her eyes glittered with a mix of lust and impatience, though there was a playful edge to her expression as she came to stand beside him, gazing out at the same view.
"I'm glad you think so," Justin said dryly, without looking at her, taking another sip of his drink. A party she'd enjoy was likely to be a mess and a half. "Thor just delivered the Ravager ship a week ago, along with these Asgardian spirits and other trade goods. So just have some patience, you'll get your fun soon enough."
Hela scoffed softly, crossing her arms as she leaned back against the window to face him. "I didn't come here to admire your little lights in the sky, Justin. I want what was promised…" She turned her sharp gaze on him, her lust clear. "You promised me bloodshed. If you can't deliver, I'm happy to negotiate a different… Distraction." One of her hands reached forward and squeezed his ass firmly.
Justin finally looked at her, one eyebrow raised in faint amusement. "I keep my promises, you were informed what the process would be - I even went to bat against Asgard for you, so keep it in your pants woman… As for your bloodshed, you'll get plenty of that soon enough." He swirled his glass lazily. "The ship needs to be studied. My tech teams are going over everything. Once they're done, you'll have your ship and crew."
Hela's pout deepened, and she stepped closer to him, her presence almost magnetic, as always. She reached out, running her gloved hand down the front of his suit jacket before hooking her fingers around his tie, tugging it gently. "And how long will that take?" She murmured, her voice almost a purr. "I could pillage a thousand ships in the time your techs waste fiddling with wires. If it's trade goods you want, I can bring you all the riches of the universe."
Justin didn't flinch under her touch, though he gave her a dry look, setting his glass down on the ledge. "As tempting as that offer is, I'd prefer to keep things running smoothly. You know, without causing intergalactic incidents with Asgard, or turning half the galaxy into enemies I don't have time to deal with. Yet." He gently removed her hand from his tie, smirking faintly. "You'll get your ship soon, Hela. Patience."
It's not like he wanted to keep her earthbound longer, but his techs needed to study the ship to ensure the ones he and Stark and their teams were designing had every bit of data they needed.
Hela was best in small doses. Like once a year.
Hela's eyes narrowed, though the corner of her lips twitched as if she were suppressing a smile. "You're lucky I find you entertaining," She said, stepping back and crossing her arms again, purposefully pushing her bust up. Her gaze flicked to the satellites again. "And what of these… Toys? Are they really enough to keep Earth safe?" She sounded dubious.
"They're not toys," Justin replied, his tone firm, some annoyance leaking through. "They're tools and weapons powerful enough to take down that ship you so desire... Tools that will ensure no one dares lay a finger on Earth. And before you ask - no, you can't fight one."
Hela chuckled deviously, a sound that sent a shiver down the spine of anyone nearby who heard it. "You know me so well, yet you keep on with this denial play… A dangerous game."
The room's lights dimmed briefly, signaling that another satellite had been launched. The counter on the wall clicked up to 248, drawing another round of cheers from the partygoers. Hela turned her gaze back to Justin, her expression contemplative.
"You know," She said slowly, her voice quieter now, but still brimming with an undercurrent of desire."You and I aren't so different. Both of us desire nothing more than victory, to see our enemies driven before us, both of us willing to do whatever it takes to achieve our goals. Release your bindings, you're a conqueror, like me, join me."
Justin raised an eyebrow, his smirk returning. "Perhaps one day, who knows what the future will hold," He said, knowing it was better to dangle a possible carrot in front of this mad woman, then to push until she let go of her desire and want for him, going back to her old ways.
She tilted her head, considering his words, before giving him a sly smile. "Perhaps I may still convince you, one of these days..."
The two stood in silence for a moment, the weight of their conversation lingering between them. Finally, Justin picked up his glass again, raising it in a mock toast. "To progress," He said, his tone light.
Hela rolled her eyes but raised an imaginary glass in return, her smirk growing. "To conquest." She rebutted.
As another satellite launched into the void, the two of them stood side by side, their reflections in the window framed by the stars. Two forces of nature, each carving their own path through the universe, circling each other, the path forward still unclear.
Justin took another sip of the frankly divine wine, this woman is going to be a constant headache… He thought.
Hela only smiled at him, like she could read his mind, and found his thoughts amusing.
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Grand Ballroom seating area,
Jean Grey was perched on the edge of her seat, her green eyes bright and animated as she gestured enthusiastically, a genuine smile lighting up her face. She'd gotten dolled up for the event, a light spot of makeup, adding the kohl look to her eyes due to Cairo's influence on the decorations. Her dress was an emerald number, strapless, that she'd spent her entire first paycheck on.
Not that she was looking to impress anyone or anything.
"This job is everything I've ever dreamed of!" Jean gushed, her voice warm and eager. "I mean, I get to make real, lasting changes, helping countries build themselves up, giving people a chance at a better life. It's not just about putting out fires like with the X-Men. It's actual progress." She leaned forward, her excitement infectious. "And the resources Hammer Industries is pouring into UNICEF are unbelievable! The teams are incredible, and the tech? I've never seen anything like it. We can help a village turn around their situation in hours!"
Across from her, Emma Frost lounged back in her chair. Her crisp white outfit, perfectly tailored to her sharp curves, practically radiated icy confidence. She swirled a glass of wine in her hand, her piercing eyes fixed on Jean with a mixture of disdain and boredom, her platinum blond hair done up in an intricate crown for the occasion, some tresses still trailing down her shoulders.
"Yes, Jean," Emma said smoothly, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "We've all heard the glowing reviews the first ten times. Saint Justin and his harem, saving the world one charitable initiative at a time." She took a sip of her wine, her lips curving into a faintly mocking smile. "And of course, you, the bright-eyed golden girl, plucked from obscurity as a side character on a minor team and placed at the helm. How utterly perfect and deserved..."
Jean's face flushed instantly, her earlier confidence faltering. "I - I got this position on my own merits," She stammered, her voice unsteady. "Mister Hammer saw what I could do, and recognized my potential and -"
Emma cut her off with a sharp laugh, setting her glass down on the table with a soft clink. "Oh, please. Let's not insult everyone's intelligence. We all know what Justin sees in women like you." Her smile turned razor-sharp. "Or should I say, what he hopes to see. Face it, darling, your qualifications pale in comparison to the pretty sight of your spread legs."
"Emma, that's enough." Ororo's voice cut through the air, her calm authority impossible to ignore. She'd been willing to let Jean fight her own battles. To a point. She sat beside Jean, her flowing white hair catching the light as she fixed Emma with a cool, steady gaze. Dressed in a flowing, off-shoulder dress of deep indigo, Ororo had drawn glances ever since she arrived.
"Jean has earned her place," Ororo continued, her voice firm with a touch of censure. "And you know it. Just because you're bitter at your own mistakes, doesn't mean you get to lash out at her."
They all knew she'd only come onboard once she'd seen her total defeat coming and had come begging for a seat at the table.
While entirely competent, she still hadn't as much as sniffed the inner circle of Justin Hammer, kept at arm's length, trusted, but not trusted.
Emma arched a perfectly sculpted brow, her expression unimpressed. "Bitter? Oh, no, Ororo, I'm far beyond bitter. Try exhausted." She leaned forward slightly, her eyes narrowing. "Do you have any idea what I've been tasked with? Infrastructure Czar. For the entire planet. Do you understand the scope of that? I'm rebuilding nations, cities, entire systems to be defensible against hostile actions. And for what? A pat on the head and a 'thank you for your service, Emma'? Meanwhile, the two of you get to sit back and bask in the glow of your shiny new titles, legs comfortably spread, actual work minimal."
Jean's face turned crimson, and she sputtered in protest, her voice rising. "I am not - there's nothing going on between me and Justin!"
Emma smirked, looking unconvinced. "Of course not, darling."
"Emma," Ororo warned again, her tone sharper now. She reached out to place a calming hand on Jean's arm. "Jean, you don't have to explain yourself to her. You're doing amazing work, and anyone with eyes can see that."
Emma rolled her eyes, reaching for her wineglass again. "Oh, spare me the sisterly solidarity, Ororo. You're just as complicit in this farce as she is, we all know you sold yourself for all of mutantkind, or that's your story anyway, perhaps you simply desired white meat?"
"It's metahumans now!" Jean said sharply, regaining some of her equilibrium, Emma just scoffing.
"And how many glasses of wine have you had tonight?" Ororo asked pointedly, her voice laced with a quiet challenge as she stared the normally poised and put together woman.
Emma gave her a withering look, the faintest flush coloring her pale cheeks. "I'm allowed to drink, Ororo. Forgive me if the seven hells I deal with daily, call for a bit of relief." She snapped, uncharacteristically for her.
Ororo tilted her head, her expression turning playful despite the tension. "I'm just surprised then, Emma. A calculating woman like you? I would have thought you'd take advantage of how easy Justin is, to gain your own advantage."
"Ororo!" Jean squeaked out, "How much have you had to drink!?" She questioned her mentor, not believing this conversation could possibly take place normally.
Emma's gaze turned icy, her lips curling into a bitter smile as she met Ororo's eyes. "Because I have self-esteem. I have to keep something, anything, of my pride. Or what's the point?"
Before Ororo could respond, the sound of a familiar voice cut through the seating alcove they'd made theirs, smooth and polite.
"Ladies," Charles Xavier greeted, his wheelchair gliding silently across the polished floor as he approached. He was dressed sharply in a dark suit, his demeanor calm and composed as ever.
Despite how he was mostly a pariah nowadays, his 'team' down to a handful, his school, practically barren with the new acceptance amongst humanity.
As shown by the fact he'd arrived for this soiree, alone.
Emma's expression turned instantly cold, her sharp features hardening as she fixed him with a glare. "And who the hell invited you?" She asked bluntly, her tone dripping with disdain.
She'd never liked the man, and liked him even less now, that he'd turned into a complete milquetoast.
Jean shifted uncomfortably in her seat, her earlier flush replaced by a pale, uneasy expression, still feeling guilty abandoning the X-Men. Ororo's posture straightened, her face growing stony as she greeted Charles with a nod, her voice noticeably cooler. "Charles."
She would not forgive him for messing with his own team's memories. She blamed Emma far less, for doing the deed - then she did Charles for ordering it, and being too much of a coward to do it himself, or own up to it.
Xavier seemed unfazed by the frosty reception, his tone measured and pleasant. "I'm an ally of Justin Hammer, Emma. Of course I'm invited to this gathering of the best and brightest of the Hammer Federation."
Emma's smile turned cruel, her blue eyes glittering with malice. "An ally, still?" She said, her voice deceptively sweet. "Even after dear Erik was harvested?"
Ororo gave her a sharp look - that was not supposed to be well known information. And by all that is holy, how much had the woman had to drink to be this loose with her lips?
Jean's brows furrowed in confusion, her green eyes darting between Emma and Xavier. "What are you talking about?"
Ororo's eyes flashed angrily as she turned to Emma, her voice sharp. "That's supposed to be classified, do not say another word." She warned, not wanting Jean to get in any deeper than she needed to be.
Xavier raised a hand, his expression still calm but tinged with sadness. "Do not worry, Ororo. I'm already aware that Lady Domino has been gifted my old friend's power."
Ororo wanted to scream, that's not helpful, Charles! And how the fuck do you know that!? Do we have a security breach?
Normally a security breach would be a given with Charles, but Hammer Industries employees were safe against telepathy - and those in the know were even tougher to get information from. Did he… Autopsy Erik to study his corpse? Charles…
Were any of your ideals ever real? Ororo wondered, even more sure she'd made the right choice now.
Emma had gone entirely blank faced, Domino being the recipient of Magneto's power obviously news to her.
Jean's mouth fell open, her expression one of shock and disbelief. "Wait - Hammer can remove powers? And give them to other people!?"
Ororo pinched the bridge of her nose, letting out a sigh. "See, Charles? This is exactly the kind of thing you don't just share openly."
How on earth was she going to convince Justin to not end the man for such loose lips? He already didn't like him, and Charles' survival in this new world was likely down to Justin being considerate to her and Jean…
Xavier looked genuinely apologetic, but Ororo wasn't sure she could trust his expressions anymore, he was too good of an actor, having pulled the wool over her eyes for years.
"You're right, Ororo. My apologies."
Emma, meanwhile, looked thoroughly pleased at Charles being taken to task, her lips curved into a smug, superior smile. That is, until Ororo turned her attention back to her with a heated glare.
"And you," Ororo said pointedly, her tone firm. "You're just as bad, so wipe that smugness off your face, you shouldn't have said anything either."
Jean, still struggling to process what she'd just heard, raised her voice slightly, her words tumbling out in a mixture of disbelief and frustration. "What the hell!?"
Ororo sighed again, standing and offering Jean a gentle smile. "Come on, Jean. Let's go chat. Just the two of us."
She'd need to convince Jean to keep this quiet. Metahumans were becoming a fixture in society, they couldn't afford to cause an uprising now, this information could cause major upheaval if spread maliciously.
Every metahuman would wonder if they were next, just a product to be harvested for Hammer's chosen.
Jean hesitated for a moment before nodding, her expression still troubled. She stood and followed Ororo out of the room, leaving Emma and Xavier behind, Ororo giving them a final glare, even as she waved over one of the servant androids, having a quick word.
The tension between the two remaining figures was palpable, even if Charles was too 'evolved' to showcase his dislike openly, Emma had no problems with it.
"So," Emma said, her voice cold and biting as she fixed Charles with a steely glare. "Enjoying your new position as completely inconsequential, Charles? Do you even have any students left to brainwash?"
She knew she was being a hypocrite, she didn't care. She was overworked, stressed beyond anything, due to not having the same safety net as the whores around Hammer. At least she could still bully Charles. It was something.
Xavier's expression remained calm, though there was a flicker of something darker in his eyes for a moment when she mentioned his students. "I dreamed of the day I wouldn't be needed anymore, Emma… what about you, White Queen? How's all that power feeling now?" He gave her wine glass a measured glance.
The alcove fell into a heavy silence, Emma refusing to give Xavier a point, just waving down another drink. While Xavier had no one else really to talk to, so he remained.
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On the dance floor,
The soft glow of dimmed lights reflected off polished metal flooring as a gentle melody wafted through the air, the kind of tune that made you want to sway in place, caught up in its warmth. Eileen and Domino moved together in the center of the room, their steps unhurried, their movements perfectly in sync, as though the music played only for them.
Eileen was dressed in a dark blue, almost black dress, its silky fabric flowing just enough to catch the light with each step. A high slit revealed her toned leg as she moved, and the open back showcased her pale skin, framed by her neatly styled blonde hair. She looked elegant, the sheen of sweat on her skin showcasing just how long they'd been at it.
They'd been dancing since the party started, refusing to let go of each other and being embroiled in discussion with the other partygoers, just enjoying being.
Domino, by contrast, had a less formal dress, her own little black dress that clung to her curves showcasing her cleavage to an eye popping extent, the bottom barely reaching mid thigh, the dress adorned with subtle silver accents that caught the light just enough to draw the eye. Her dark hair fell freely around her shoulders, for once beaten down into a free flowing nature, her natural confidence and playfulness making her look effortlessly stunning.
Domino grinned as she leaned closer, her cheek brushing against Eileen's as they slowly danced. "You know, if you wanted to seduce me tonight, you could've just said so. All this dancing is overkill, you had me the moment you showed up in that dress."
Eileen chuckled softly, giving her an amused look, Eileen's eyes holding that soft nature that she only ever shared with her. "Who says I'm trying to seduce you? Maybe I just wanted to enjoy a quiet evening out for once. No trouble, no chaotic events."
Domino raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a mischievous smirk as she twirled Eileen, getting a laugh out of her, as the slow music was definitely at odds with such a maneuver. "No chaos? With me around? You might as well wish for snow in the Sahara."
Eileen pulled back slightly, meeting Domino's gaze, her expression softer than usual. "That's not true. You might thrive in chaos, but you… With me, I don't see chaos anymore … You make me feel grounded. Like I can breathe. I didn't realize how much I needed that until you became mine."
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For a moment, Domino seemed caught off guard. Her smirk softened into a genuine smile, one that didn't come out often. "Well, aren't you just full of surprises?" She murmured, pulling Eileen a little closer as they swayed. "Sweet talk like that and I might come to believe things…" She rested her face against Eileen's neck and just breathed in her, eyes half lidded, "Or I might just lose all control and ravish you right here."
Eileen rolled her eyes, though her lips twitched with amusement. "Don't try to deflect Dom, not with me. You matter to me. More than I expected you would, more than I ever thought you would.."
Domino's fingers trailed along Eileen's back, her touch light but deliberate as her eyes searched Eileen's carefully. "Careful, sweetie. Keep talking like that, and I might think you're trying to tie me down forever."
"Would that be so terrible?" Eileen asked, her voice steady but laced with a hint of vulnerability.
Domino tilted her head, considering the question. "Terrible? No. Terrifying? Maybe a little." Her tone was light, but there was an undercurrent of honesty there. "I'm not exactly used to… This." She gestured vaguely between them. "The whole 'normal relationship' thing, everything has always been just skin for me."
Eileen smiled, kissing Domino's nose gently, "You don't have to worry with me, love, I'll wait as long as it takes. This is new to me too." Slowly she leaned in, her lips capturing Domino's ever so softly. Just a taste, as she disengaged, eyes slightly mischievous, "New can be good." She murmured.
"Touché," Domino said with a laugh, her grip tightening slightly as she spun Eileen in a slow circle. When they came back together, their foreheads almost touched. "But seriously, Eileen, I don't know if I'm cut out for the 'forever' thing. I… I don't want to hurt you…"
In a sight of incredible rarity, Domino's playful mask dropped, as she showed Eileen her insecurities and fears, not hiding anything in her expressions.
Eileen's eyes searched Domino's, her gaze calm and understanding. "We can figure this out, step by step, together. Maybe it's forever, maybe it's a month." She touched Domino's chin gently with one hand, meeting her eyes, "But you could never hurt me by being you."
Domino's smile returned, softer this time, tinged with something Eileen couldn't quite place. "You make it sound so simple," She said, her voice almost a whisper.
"Maybe it can be," Eileen replied. "If we let it."
For a while, they danced in silence, the music filling the space between words. Eileen's movements were measured, precise. Domino, on the other hand, moved with a casual grace, her steps unpredictable but never clumsy, always complementing Eileen's. Together, they created a rhythm that was uniquely theirs, as they paid no attention to the world around them.
Eventually, Domino broke the silence. "Do you ever think about what comes next?" She asked, her tone casual, but the question carried weight.
Eileen tilted her head. "What do you mean?"
"I mean… Us. This. The whole 'Hammer empire' thing," Domino said, her voice light but her expression thoughtful. "Are we just cogs in the machine? Or is there a bigger picture we're supposed to be a part of when this all finishes?"
Eileen considered the question for a moment, her gaze distant. "I think… It depends on us. On what we want. Justin might be at the center of it all, but he doesn't dictate who we are. At least, not entirely. He'd let us decide for ourselves."
Domino snorted softly, her gaze fond. "You really think we have that much freedom? I like the guy, respect him more than I ever have any other man, but he's a possessive one. The man's a god, Eileen. He could snap his fingers and rewrite reality if he wanted to."
Eileen met Domino's gaze, her expression steady. "Maybe. But he hasn't. And until he does, I'm going to keep being who I am. I think you should too, he's never begrudged us that." She laid a gentle hand on her shoulder, "If you asked to do something else, he'd listen."
She didn't spend half as much time as his bodyguard anymore, she knew, because he didn't need it the same way. A way to give Domino a break, she suspected. But one Domino apparently wasn't taking well.
"You know he let you go to reward you, right? Because he wanted to give you more space, he even gave you the power of magnetism, he's not replacing you, Dom." Eileen said softly.
Domino's lips curved into a small, genuine smile. "You're annoyingly good at this whole 'being a good person' thing, you know that? Ruining all my self flagellation just like that!" She let out a little huff, but her smile remained.
"I try," Eileen said with a faint smile.
Domino leaned in, her lips brushing against Eileen's ear as she whispered, "I'm going to worship you, for being so good to me."
The music began to fade, but neither woman moved to stop dancing for now. For them, the moment wasn't about the music or the setting. It was about the connection they'd found, the understanding that, despite their differences, they were better together than apart.
As the last notes of the melody faded into silence, Domino leaned in, her lips brushing against Eileen's in a kiss that was equal parts playful and tender. When she pulled back, her smirk was back in full force
"Alright," She said, her voice light but her eyes serious. "Let's take it one step at a time on the road to forever."
Eileen's smile widened, her hand tightening slightly on Domino's. "One step at a time," She agreed.
Eileen shrieking as Domino suddenly hiked her up into a princess carry, her arms going around her neck, as she blushed furiously, "Domino, what are you doing, everyone's watching!"
"Your favorite movie is an Officer and a Gentleman, I'm only giving my sweetie what she craves." Domino said with a wide grin, as she carried a blushing Eileen out of the room, to plenty of applause from those who noticed them.
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Elsewhere on the dance floor,
Yelena twirled her sister, Natasha Romanoff, across the dance floor, their movements graceful and well practiced. The music was elegant but upbeat, providing a steady rhythm that allowed Yelena to guide the dance with ease. Natasha's exasperation was written all over her face, her eyes sharp as they met Yelena's mischievous grin.
How exactly did I allow Clint to weasel out of this again? I needed the backup, she thought, annoyed.
Oh yes… He's still in the doghouse with Laura…
To be fair to her erstwhile partner, he hadn't realized Hammer Industries child care programs had allowed Laura to go back to work - at Hammer Industries - when he chose to badmouth said company and its founder the moment he finally got back home.
At least Natasha hadn't been the only one with foot in mouth disease with a loved one during this whole debacle.
Although she assumed at least Laura wasn't trying to get Clint to sleep with Hammer… Like Yelena was.
"Let me guess," Natasha said dryly as Yelena spun her, "This little dance is part of your plan to 'sacrifice' me to Hammer again, isn't it? Is that why you dragged me out here? Two sexy, sensual women moving against each other for his viewing pleasure?"
Yelena laughed, the sound bright and teasing. "Relax, Nat. He already turned you down, he wanted nothing to do with it." She nodded toward Justin, who stood near the edge of the ballroom, gazing out into the vast expanse of space through the window. His profile was calm and composed, his hands casually in his pockets as he listened to Tony Stark prattle.
"For now," Yelena continued with a smirk, "It's just a friendly dance between siblings. No sacrifices today, I promise."
Natasha felt kind of offended. She knew she was gorgeous, and had used her body like a weapon many times. More importantly, she had rocked his world when she'd been undercover. What did he mean he wanted nothing to do with her!?
Natasha arched a brow, hiding the reasons behind her irritation behind sarcasm towards Yelena. "Forgive me if I don't take your word for it. Last time I checked, you were still all for this crazy idea, pushing me forward like some tribute from ancient times."
Yelena just shrugged, looking entirely too pleased with herself as she twirled Natasha again. "That's what sisters are for." She chirped. "We're all allies here."
Natasha rolled her eyes, tapping her finger against the rings coiled around Yelena's forearms almost like gauntlets. The Ten Rings glinted under the ballroom lights, their intricate designs radiating power. "A lot of firepower for an ally to be carting around a party," Natasha remarked, her tone pointed.
She'd been shown what Yelena could do with those, hence why she absolutely rejected any offers of sparring.
She didn't need to add to Yelena's smugness.
Yelena's smile was playful, her eyes glinting with humor. "We're done fighting now, sure," She said sweetly, resting her head on her shoulder as they danced. "But you taught me to always be prepared."
Natasha let out a soft huff as they moved together in sync. "How's life, Nat?" Yelena asked eventually, tilting her head as she rested it on the Black Widow's shoulder still. "Hammer Industries as scary as you thought it would be?"
Natasha hesitated, her steps faltering slightly before she recovered. "It's… Surprising," She admitted begrudgingly. "I expected something more... Oppressive. But what he's doing? It's working. The world's stabilizing, somehow, against all odds, and people seem - " She paused, searching for the right word, "-happy."
Yelena grinned, her tone teasing. "Don't sound too impressed, Nat. Someone might think you're starting to believe in the new world order."
Natasha scowled, though there was no real heat behind it. "I didn't say that. I'm just saying he's not as awful as I expected vis a vis your average tyrant. Doesn't mean I trust him."
Yelena smiled, pulling Natasha closer as the music slowed. "Oh, come on. You've been here long enough to see it, with how good you are. Justin's not the monster you thought he was, he does what is necessary. He's actually… Amazing."
Natasha snorted softly, but there was no scorn in her tone, they'd been through this song and dance before. "Amazing? That's not exactly the word I'd use. Arrogant, ambitious, a little too charming for his own good… Sure. But amazing?"
She'd met amazing men before, albeit they were a rarity. And Hammer did not qualify. She honestly had no idea what Yelena saw in him.
Yelena smirked, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Call it what you want, but you can't deny he's changed the world for the better. And honestly?" She spun Natasha again, making her sister stumble slightly at the unexpected shift in the middle of a slow dance. "It's nice not to have to fight all the time anymore. To just… Live."
Natasha steadied herself, her expression softening ever so slightly. "Yeah," She said quietly. "I'll give you that."
She might not agree with it. But she wasn't stupid. She could see that generally, everyone's lives were improving. The cost… Well, she wasn't Fury. She wouldn't die for democracy. She'd adapt and find her place in this new order.
Even Clint had a position waiting for him. Working under Laura. She was intensely curious how that would go. She might have to ask Yelena for permission to set up some hidden cameras. It promised to be comedy gold.
Natasha had only needed seconds of interaction with Laura to see how unimpressed she'd been with their everything, for the past year or so.
The song swelled toward its conclusion, the final notes echoing through the ballroom as Yelena dipped Natasha dramatically. Natasha let out a soft laugh, her lips curving into an involuntary smile. "Okay, fine," She said, her tone tinged with reluctant amusement. "You win. This was… A nice break from everything"
Yelena's grin widened as she straightened, pulling Natasha back to her feet. "See? I'm not all bad, once you stop acting stupid."
Natasha gave her a sidelong glance, her smile fading slightly. "So, if you're over being mad at me, does that mean I can stop playing your secretary?"
Please, let it be over.
Yelena's smirk turned wicked, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Not a chance."
Natasha groaned, already regretting asking the question and showing her displeasure. Yelena's tone turned breezy, almost cheerful. "Oh, that reminds me. I'll need maternity clothes soon. Please research and write out a full description of every type of maternity clothing and material that exists, I'll need it in triplicate, handwritten - I'm allergic to other ink."
Natasha's expression flattened into a deadpan glare. "Don't you have an AI that could do that in five seconds?" Also, bullshit you're allergic to printer ink…
Yelena's face was the picture of innocence, though the smirk tugging at her lips betrayed her. "She's busy," She said sweetly. "I'm afraid I can only count on you this time, big sister."
The sheer audacity of the task left Natasha momentarily speechless. She stared at Yelena, her mouth opening and closing as she struggled to find a retort. Finally, she let out a long, exasperated sigh, pinching the bridge of her nose. "You're a very evil person, bullying your own sister," She muttered.
Yelena beamed, clearly taking the comment as a compliment. "I know."
As the next song began to play, Yelena took Natasha's hand again, pulling her back onto the dance floor with a flourish. Natasha let herself be led, her expression caught somewhere between irritation and amusement. For all her complaints, she couldn't deny that moments like these were rare - and, despite everything, she was glad to share them with her sister.
She'd been heartbroken to learn of her mother's death, her father dead long before that even, in prison.
So Yelena was all she had, besides Clint.
She wasn't going to lose that.
----------------------------------------
June 4th, 2010
The space aboard the Ravager ship the Murderboner (Name to be changed, fucking ravagers) thrummed with activity as the crew - sentinels and a few carefully selected humans picked out from his staff by Hela, prepared for departure.
His techs, with the help of Nail and Jarvis, had gotten everything they needed from the ship, and it was time to ensure Hela was off, to be someone else's problem for a while.
The sentinels had been repurposed for spacefaring purposes, and were entirely loyal to Justin above all else, with self destruct codes available for Nail in case they did somehow get taken over by some alien tech or hivemind.
He found it unlikely, but if Star Trek had been any guide, all aliens wanted to either fuck or kill you, or be you, so it was prudent to safeguard for such eventualities.
Human engineers barked commands, double-checking systems and calibrating controls, while the ship's engines hummed steadily in preparation for the first tests. Even so they still had several hours before the ship would actually take off.
Justin stood on the bridge, observing the organized chaos. Beside him, Hela lounged in the captain's chair, her sharp eyes scanning the bustling crew with faint anticipation, her lips curled into a smirk as she saw her goals coalesce before her. Nebula was licking Hela's leather boots, a nervous expression on her face, Hela holding her leash lazily in her hand.
There was no way she'd broken that fast, but if she wanted to play games with Hela... It wasn't Justin's problem. Nail would never let her succeed with a betrayal.
"This is going to be fun," Hela said, her voice low and sultry as she slid off her chair, and stepped closer to Justin, her fingers trailing lazily along the edge of the console. "Your toys are more obedient than most mortals, harder to break too.. I can play rough and not worry."
She absently clicked her fingers at Nebula, who left the bridge, crawling on all fours, her leash trailing behind her.
Justin gave her a sardonic smile. "They're efficient, and they don't question orders. Two things you could learn from, Hela." Keeping Hela under control was like holding a storm in a bottle, and he couldn't show himself as too weak.
Hela's smirk deepened, and she leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a purr. "Speaking of my obedience, I can think of a much better way for you to spend your time before I leave." She reached out, her fingers brushing against the lapel of his suit jacket as her eyes glimmered with barely restrained. "Surely you can spare a moment for… Putting me in my place."
Justin exhaled sharply, his smile stiffening as he reached up to gently - but firmly - remove her hand from his jacket. "As much as I'd love to entertain you, you'd have to clear that with Yelena first."
By the time she managed to corner and convince Yelena, it would be time to leave, and he'd escape having to deal with anymore Hela business for hopefully a long while.
Yes, parts of his domains were sex and domination, but Hela was just… So Hela. He'd prefer to keep their liaisons down to once a year, or ten.
Hela arched an eyebrow, her expression shifting to one of mild surprise that he hadn't immediately pounced. "Yelena?" She repeated, her tone a mixture of curiosity and irritation. "Since when do I need her permission?"
Justin nodded slowly, a small proud smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Since she decided she's my woman. You can't just bypass that, it wouldn't be proper etiquette."
Hopefully Yelena would forgive him for throwing her under the bus a little. At least Hela wasn't so crazy as to challenge her to a duel or anything, knowing exactly what Justin would do to someone threatening one of his.
Hela narrowed her eyes, clearly displeased. "You mortals and your need to complicate things, you should act more like a God." She muttered, though her lips twitched as if she were holding back a grin, like she knew something he didn't. "Fine. I'll deal with Yelena."
Justin's smirk didn't fade as he straightened, his tone shifting to a more businesslike cadence. "Now, let's talk about your mission." He gestured to a holographic display that floated above the console, highlighting star charts and target zones. "You will stay away from Asgard. That's not up for negotiation. Your targets are pirates, slavers, and anyone else that qualifies as galactic scum. No civilians. Got it?"
It needed to be said. He didn't need to find himself in a war with the Kree because she decided to decimate one of their planets.
Sakaar… Well, she could decimate that planet, they were mostly pirates, slavers and galactic scum. She even had someone on that planet she knew, it would be like a fun reunion...
Hela rolled her eyes, but she nodded. "Yes, yes. No civilians. I've heard this lecture before." Her gaze flicked to the display, her interest piqued by the clusters of red-highlighted targets, Sakaar amongst them. "And the loot?"
Justin nodded. "Bring back anything valuable. Tech, weapons, rare materials. Sell or use anything else as needed." He gave her a look, "No slaves."
Hela cocked her head, a smirk on her face, "No slaves? Don't you need new alien lifeforms to study?" She teased lightly.
Justin sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "If you find any aliens we have not studied before, bring a few back. But only a few. This isn't a free-for-all slaving operation, Hela."
He'd take some free test subjects that were useful. A few Kree to develop a Kree specific virus wouldn't be a bad idea, necessarily. But if Hela went overboard, he'd just get Xandar on his ass, or Captain Marvel dropping by again.
Her smirk shifted into a pout. "Fine. Not too many slaves. But I expect some recognition for my restraint."
"You'll get a pat on the head," Justin said dryly. "Now, about Asgard -"
"Oh, stop worrying about Asgard," Hela interrupted, waving a dismissive hand. "I'm not interested in the golden halls or that simpering fool Thor. Although, Odin…" She trailed off, her grin turning sharp and dangerous. "Just a detour to kill him wouldn't be such a big deal. He isn't even king anymore." She asked, with an honestly horrible attempt at puppy dog eyes.
Hela just didn't do innocent, that well, nor begging.
Justin's expression hardened, and he stepped closer to her, his voice low and firm. "No. You stay away from Asgard. Odin, Thor, all of them. You're more useful out there pillaging and looting to your heart's content instead of a pointless battle you may well lose."
Hela tilted her head, her lips curving into a more exaggerated pout. "But think of the satisfaction. Just a little death. Only Odin. I'll even promise to leave Thor intact - mostly."
"No," Justin said firmly, his voice laced with an edge of authority, "He's already humiliated, standing by entirely impotent as Frejya rules, turned into his wife's bitch - settle for that." He took a deliberate step forward, his presence radiating power as he unleashed a subtle wave of his domination aura. The air around them seemed to thrum with an unspoken command, and Hela's playful demeanor faltered for a fraction of a second.
She shivered, her pupils dilating as she took an involuntary step back. Her grin returned, though it was tinged with something darker. "Fine," She said softly, her voice almost a whisper, something hungry beneath it. "I'll behave. For now."
Justin nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "Good. I'd hate to have to cut this mission short because you couldn't follow orders."
She only smirked, as she turned to leave the bridge, at least he had time now, he thought, she wouldn't find Yelena in time for anything else.
"Nail, patch me through to Yelena." Hela purred, as she stepped out, sending one last smirk Justin's way.
Damn… She's getting smarter.
"Nail," He said quietly, his voice directed toward the room at large.
A moment later, Nail's holographic form appeared beside him, her expression calm and composed. "Yes, sir?"
Justin's eyes remained on the display as he spoke. "Is everything prepared?"
Nail nodded. "A fork of my consciousness will remain aboard the ship. I will monitor Hela's actions, control the sentinels, and provide guidance as needed."
Justin's expression didn't change, but his tone grew colder. "If she sets course for Asgard…"
Nail hesitated for only a moment before responding. "I will initiate the self-destruct sequence, sir."
Justin looked at her, his gaze sharp and unyielding. "Good." He turned away from the display, his hands slipping into his pockets as he walked toward the exit. "I won't let her ruin everything we've built. Contingencies are necessary, do not give her an inch."
Nail watched him leave, her holographic form flickering slightly before disappearing.
Only minutes later Hela ambushed him, saying Yelena was on the way, dragging him along the corridor enthusiastically.
----------------------------------------
The next day. Hammer space station.
Justin sat at the head of a obsidian conference table, his fingers drumming idly against the surface as he listened. Across from him, Sunil Bakshi was speaking, his voice calm. To Justin's right, Yelena lounged in her chair, legs crossed, paying attention to the conversation.
Sunil sounded faintly annoyed as he continued, "Russia is still holding firm. The rebels haven't managed to break through Moscow's defenses, and the state security forces have managed to keep them contained for now." He tapped a control, shifting the display. "China, however… Their response has been far more - blunt."
A live feed showed satellite footage of a city square. A gathering of thousands, waving banners, chanting. Then the armored transports rolled in. The feed cut to thermal imaging as the first shots were fired. The heat signatures flickered and collapsed, hundreds at a time. The streets were painted in red.
"The death toll is… Excessive," Sunil said carefully, his dark eyes watching Justin for a reaction. "They aren't just focusing on maintaining order now - they're obliterating anyone who speaks against them, it's going to cost us if we leave it alone."
Justin exhaled through his nose, rubbing his temple with one hand. "Idiots," He muttered. "They keep clinging to the past, thinking they can hold out. That their 'national identity' means anything in the grand scheme of things." He sat back, expression unreadable. "This is taking too long. What do we have that cuts through the bullshit and solves this immediately?"
Sunil hesitated for only a moment before asking, "What's changed, sir? You were content to let them grind themselves down before."
Justin's fingers drummed against the table again, his gaze flicking up sharply. "My patience only goes so far when it comes to idiots not seeing the inevitable." His voice was calm, but there was an edge beneath it - a quiet, simmering irritation. "They should have folded by now. The longer they resist, the more problems they create. I need this wrapped up."
Yelena stretched, rolling her shoulders. "Easy solution," She said, voice almost playful. "We turn the orbital weapons on Beijing. One shot, negotiations start over with whoever's left alive."
Justin admired her ruthlessness, but he wasn't sure that was a solution.
Sunil's reaction was immediate. "Absolutely not," He snapped, uncharacteristically forceful. "The PR fallout alone would be catastrophic."
Yelena arched an eyebrow. "We own the media, PR is what we say it is."
Sunil gave her a flat look. "You can't just make an entire city disappear and expect no one to notice."
Yelena shrugged. "So we say China did it to themselves. Some 'accident' with their nukes. A glitch, a misfire - people will believe whatever we tell them."
Sunil's mouth opened, then closed, as if momentarily at a loss for words. Finally, he exhaled sharply. "Yelena," He said carefully, "Fear works - until it doesn't. Push too far, and people become so afraid fear no longer matters and they die happily to stop you. If nations think they're next, we'll see resistance start before we can consolidate." He shook his head, "No one's going to miss an orbital bombardment, no matter what excuse we use."
Justin tapped a finger against his chin, then waved a hand dismissively. "Sunil's right. Too much trouble for too little gain. We need them to submit, not create martyrs. Any other options?"
Yelena made a thoughtful noise, then grinned. "We could just kill every political and military leader above a certain level. Clean slate. Everyone below them gets the message loud and clear - fall in line or join the corpses."
Justin turned to Sunil. "Feasible?"
Sunil nodded. "Nail has every key figure tracked down, their position known to the centimeter. We could deploy Widow teams through portals and eliminate them all within the hour."
Yelena leaned back, smirking. "Do it soon. A lot of my girls need maternity leave soon."
Justin nodded once, finalizing the fate of hundreds of men and women in an instant. "Make it happen."
Sunil merely inclined his head, already sending out the necessary orders.
Justin shifted gears. "Savage Lands. Progress?"
Sunil switched the display. The hologram now showed dense jungle, heat signatures shifting among the thick vegetation. "Slow going," He admitted. "The natives are very resistant, not just tactically but biologically. The flora and fauna alone have taken down multiple squads, and the terrain makes advanced tech deployment difficult." He paused. "We're also dealing with some… Complications."
Justin raised an eyebrow. "Elaborate."
Sunil's fingers danced across the console, bringing up a separate feed - footage of soldiers engaged in combat. But their opponents weren't just tribal warriors. Hulking animalistic figures moved among them, energy weapons in hand, armor gleaming with an unmistakable glow of advanced technology. "They've scavenged Celestial technology," Sunil confirmed. "We're losing squads to weapons we barely get a reading on."
Justin exhaled through his nose, then smirked slightly. "Well, at least we know it's worth taking, then."
If they lost soldiers, so what? This was all a perfect place to learn how a supersoldier army should fight. How their tech and tactics worked. Their deaths were worth it for the data alone.
He'd sacrifice a couple more divisions before he worried about needing to push further.
Yelena yawned, stretching out, "Maybe time to send in the big boys?"
Justin glanced at her. "Suggestions?"
She ticked off on her fingers. "Bucky, Brock, and Frank."
Justin shook his head. "Not Bucky. He's still babysitting Rogers, working him over." He turned to Sunil. "Send Brock and Frank. Let them take Electro too."
Sunil nodded. "Understood."
Before the meeting could officially end, Justin leaned forward, locking eyes with Sunil. "Start drafting plans for Talokan."
Sunil paused, studying him carefully. Then, slowly, he nodded. "I'll get started."
Namor had disappeared when the Avengers fully collapsed. And Justin doubted the fish king was planning to begin a life farming kelp or whatever they did.
So the minor annoyance needed taking care of.
----------------------------------------
The training room inside Hammerhaven was massive, its walls lined with advanced sensors and projections designed to mimic any environment. But today, the room was set to its neutral configuration - a minimalist arena of smooth flooring, clear of obstructions, the perfect blank slate for an all-out sparring session.
Justin stood at the center, rolling his shoulders. He wore a simple pair of fitted black training pants and a gray tank top, his movements fluid and relaxed. His gaze was fixed on his sparring partner, Domino, who stood not far from him, casually stretching out her arms.
She finished adjusting her gloves and strolled forward, the faintest hint of a smirk curling her lips.
"Ready to get your ass handed to you, boss?" Domino teased, her voice light and lilting, but her stance already shifting into one of readiness.
Justin smirked back. "If I lose, it'll be because of that damn luck of yours. Not skill." He bragged, bouncing lightly on the soles of his feet.
"Oh, sure," Domino said, raising an eyebrow, her smile very amused. "Let's see how far that will get you today."
She launched herself at him without warning, her movements a blur. Justin barely had time to sidestep the sweeping kick she aimed at his legs, his reflexes kicking in just in time to block her follow-up punch aimed squarely at his face. The impact reverberated up his arm, her strength sharper than most would ever guess from her lean frame.
But he was a God, so it was nothing that would impede him.
Justin retaliated, a quick jab to her ribs that forced her back a step. But Domino recovered instantly, twisting her body and using her momentum to send a roundhouse kick toward his head. He ducked low, his eyes narrowing as he dropped and swept at her legs. She leapt into the air, flipping gracefully to avoid him, and landed a few feet away.
Her grin widened. "You're getting better," She said, circling him slowly. "Still not good enough, but better."
"I've had excellent teachers," Justin replied, his tone dry. "You, Yelena, and Phantazia have been very… Hands-on."
"I'm in a relationship now. Don't make it weird," Domino said with a wry smirk, lunging at him again. She feinted left before driving her elbow toward his side. He twisted, catching her wrist and trying to use her momentum against her, but she spun fluidly out of his grip, her feet sliding across the smooth floor at the same time as he just so happened to somehow slip on some sweat on the floor and losing her.
Justin barely had a moment to process her escape before she flicked her fingers, and a shard of metal from the training floor's reinforcements peeled off and hurtled toward him. He dodged, feeling the faint brush of air as it whizzed past his head. "That's cheating," He said, his voice tight but amused.
He did specifically train with her to get his reflexes and battle awareness up.
"You've got a literal Infinity Stone," Domino shot back, grinning. "I think I'm allowed a little creativity."
Justin exhaled, steadying himself. "You say that like I ever use it, but fine, I need to learn to fine tune it anyway."
The Power Stone was a powerful weapon, but could be very indiscriminate at times. Not exactly an ideal thing for precision work, hence why he'd been working on it. So if Domino wanted to play, he'd play.
"Think fast!" Domino said, several metal plates spinning in the air above her, before she threw her arm forward.
With a subtle flick of his wrist, a sudden pulse of energy radiated outwards as a shield not too unlike the mandalas the sorcerers of Kamar-Taj displayed all the time. Small enough to only cover what was needed, as he manipulated it so precisely - it destroyed the pieces of metal she fired at him.
He was even quick enough to redirect his shield when one of the metal pieces bounced into another and slipped underneath it. A thought all it took, to have his shield re-materialize in front of the lucky piece of metal.
"Not bad," She said, her tone light but focused. "You're learning fast. I'm proud."
Justin rolled his eyes, lunging at her this time. They met in a flurry of strikes and counters, their movements almost too fast to follow if anyone had been there to watch. Domino's enhanced agility and her ability to manipulate luck kept her just out of reach of his attacks, while Justin's superhuman reflexes and strength forced her to stay on her toes.
Both of them regularly interfered with small uses of their other powers. Metal suddenly bombarding him or trying to trip him up, forcing him to adapt quickly, while his own uses of power boxed Domino in, forcing her to take hits.
After several intense exchanges, they broke apart, both breathing heavier but grinning. Domino wiped a bead of sweat from her brow. "So," She said casually, "How's Yelena?" Before throwing a jab at his nose.
Justin raised an eyebrow, wondering why she's asking, even as he easily deflects the jab, trying to latch onto her arm. "She's fine. Why?"
Domino's grin turned mischievous even as let him grab his arm, only to use it as leverage to attempt a scissor movement for his neck. "Just wondering if she's tired of waiting for you to stop fucking around and put a ring on it."
Justin snorted, shaking his head, even as he ducked under her attempt, losing his hold on her. "She likes me fucking around. Keeps things exciting."
"That didn't answer my question," Domino said, raising a playful eyebrow as she flicked another shard of metal at him. He swatted it away effortlessly with a backhand, not even using the Power Stone, his expression unimpressed.
"Why do you care?" He asked, stepping forward to close the distance between them again. "Are you planning on being her maid of honor or something and you're worried your chance is disappearing?"
"Obviously," Domino said, smirking, whole plates coming off the wall and rushing him in a staggered pattern, warping into giant daggers. "But I need to know if I should start prepping my speech or not. Also, July's coming up, you know."
Justin hesitated for a fraction of a second, his gaze narrowing. "Why July?" He asked, letting the Power Stone fill his veins, as he dashed through the storm of metal at almost super speed, coming out unharmed.
Domino shrugged, letting the metal drop. "That's the deadline for the pool."
Justin's expression shifted to one of disbelief. "There's a pool?"
His people obviously had too much free time.
Domino's smirk widened. "Of course there's a pool. Everyone's got a bet on when you'll finally settle down."
"Settle down," Justin repeated, his voice laced with dry amusement. "As if any of you actually want that to happen. You'd be bored out of your minds."
Domino laughed, lunging at him again. Their fists collided midair before they broke apart, circling each other. "We'd be fine," She said. "You, though? You seem like you'd combust from trying to be normal for five seconds. Poor Yelena…"
"Thanks for the vote of confidence," Justin said, his tone sarcastic. And Yelena doesn't care about that… Right?
"Anytime," Domino quipped, darting forward with a series of quick strikes. He blocked them all, their movements becoming more fluid as they fell into a rhythm.
After a particularly close exchange, Justin raised an eyebrow at her, deciding to fire back. "So, how's it going with Eileen? Since you're so interested in my relationship, why don't you share?"
Domino's grin turned smug. "Oh, it's absolutely fantastic. She's a giver in bed, through and through. Never disappoints." She waggled her eyebrows, "She's better in bed then you, keeps me on my back ~all night long!"
Justin blinked, slightly taken aback. "Honestly, I would've pegged her as more dominant." He admitted, ignoring the clear lie.
Domino's laughter rang out, echoing through the training room. "Everyone's full of surprises," She said, her voice teasing. "You should know that by now. You know how she can control nerve endings, and muscles, right? That shit is crazy in bed."
Justin shook his head, stepping back and lowering his stance slightly. "Remind me never to ask for details again."
"Suit yourself," Domino said, shrugging. "But seriously, you'd better have a ring on Yelena's finger by July." She said sternly, wagging a finger at him.
Justin just gave her a look, his expression guarded. "Not saying anything that you'll run back to Yelena with the second we finish here."
Is this coming from Yelena through Domino, or is this just Domino shit stirring like usual? He wondered.
Domino's grin turned wolfish. "Smart man. But if you don't do it by July, I'm losing the pool, and I'll be pissed."
Justin tilted his head, studying her. "Why do you even need money anymore? You're rich."
He knew why he needed it. It wasn't about the money anymore, it was more about keeping score. But he doubted she was like him.
"It's not about the money," Domino said, her tone matter-of-fact. "It's about the bragging rights."
Justin couldn't help but laugh, shaking his head as they resumed their sparring. "You're ridiculous."
"July, remember it," Domino shot back, her grin never fading as they clashed once more.
----------------------------------------
Cairo, July 1st, 2010.
The floating city of Cairo gleamed under the noonday sun. Hovering above the sands of Egypt, where the origins of human civilization once flourished, the city now stood as a testament to the progress of a united Earth - a world that belonged to Hammer and the Federation he had created. Thousands gathered in the main square of the floating metropolis, their voices a steady hum of anticipation as they awaited the arrival of their leader. To many, their God.
While the hold over some areas, like the middle east, were tenuous at best. The whole world had united under his banner. July 1st, this day, trumpeted as the new birth of humanity. It's ascension as the center of the universe.
Massive holographic screens surrounded the plaza, it was also broadcasting the scene to billions worldwide. Hammer's symbol - hovered in the air like a sun, casting its light over the crowd. Drones flitted above, capturing every angle of the event, ensuring that no moment of Justin's victory speech would go unseen.
Behind the podium, a massive flag bearing the symbol of the Hammer Federation billowed gently in the breeze.
Justin stepped onto the stage, dressed in a perfectly tailored black suit with subtle golden accents. His presence alone drew a roar of applause and cheers from the crowd, their voices echoing like a thunderstorm. His smile was confident, his eyes sharp as he took in the sea of faces before him. He raised a hand, and the noise slowly subsided, leaving a charged silence that hung heavy with expectation.
He began to speak, his voice amplified by the advanced sound systems, yet carrying the natural charisma and conviction that had made him a god in the eyes of many.
"Today," Justin began, his tone steady and resolute, "We mark the dawn of a new era. An era where humanity is no longer divided by borders, no longer fractured by the petty conflicts of nations and ideologies. Today, we stand united - not as Americans, Russians, Chinese, or any other nationality - but as one people, as one humanity."
The crowd erupted into cheers, their collective energy palpable. Justin paused, allowing their fervor to swell before continuing.
"When I first spoke to you all here, in this very city, I asked you to imagine a world without division. A world where every man, woman, and child could thrive. Today, that world is no longer a dream. It is a reality."
He gestured broadly to the holographic screens, which now displayed images of thriving cities being rebuilt under Hammer's regime, of families smiling, of technological marvels transforming lives. His voice rose, filled with passion.
"Every country, every culture, every piece of this planet is now a valuable thread in the tapestry of the Hammer Federation. But to truly thrive, we must let go of the things that divide us. Borders, flags, national pride - these are relics of a bygone era. What matters now is our shared humanity. Because across the universe, one truth is universal - humans, us, are superior!"
The declaration hung in the air like a thunderclap, and the crowd roared its agreement, fists pumping into the air. Justin's gaze swept over them, his expression one of fierce pride.
"Humans," He continued, his voice taking on a steel edge, "Are the masters of their fate. We have endured countless trials through history, from wars to famines, from pandemics to planetary crises as Aliens tried to keep humanity down, fearing our potential. And every single time, we have risen stronger. Together, as one race, we will not only survive - we will conquer even death itself!"
His words were met with deafening applause, the crowd chanting his name: "Hammer! Hammer! Hammer!" The sound was so loud it seemed to vibrate the very air.
Justin allowed the moment to settle before his tone shifted, becoming more serious, almost somber. "But while we have brought peace and prosperity to the surface of this planet, there remains one last threat underneath the surface. One obstacle before Earth can truly be cleansed of chaos and ready to grow into the stars."
The holographic screens flickered, displaying images of Namor. The mood in the square shifted instantly. Murmurs rippled through the crowd, their collective focus sharpening.
"Namor," Justin said, his voice laced with disdain. "The self-proclaimed king of Talokan. The murderer of Wakanda and the lunatic behind almost destroying the world in nuclear fire. The last remnant of division, of defiance against humanity's destiny. He and his people cling to the shadows, hiding beneath the waves, their very existence a relic of a time when alien blood tainted our world."
His gaze hardened, his tone cutting. "Let me be clear - there is no more room for aliens infecting humanity with their filth, earth belongs to humanity!"
The crowd was silent now, hanging onto his every word.
"To Namor," Justin said, his voice ringing with authority, "I offer this mercy - surrender. Lay down your arms, and your people will be granted leniency and allowance to leave this planet. Whatever mutations you hold from alien DNA are incompatible with our existence, you have this one chance to submit to Federation mercy. If you continue to endanger the peace and unity we have fought so hard to achieve - then I will have no choice but to bring the full weight of humanity's might upon you."
Justin's voice softened slightly, becoming almost paternal as he addressed the crowd. "This is not a call for hatred. This is not a call for war. This is a call for unity, for the final step in our journey to paradise. Look around you," He said, gesturing to the people in the square and to the images on the screens. "Look at your neighbors. Those across your borders. They are no longer strangers. They are no longer enemies. They are your brothers. Your sisters. Take care of each other. Support each other. And above all…"
His gaze swept over the crowd, his expression one of unshakable conviction. "Trust in me."
The crowd erupted once more, their cheers filling the air with an almost religious fervor. They chanted his name, their voices rising like a hymn to their savior.
"Trust in me," Justin repeated softly, his voice almost lost in the sea of noise. But his smile was confident, his posture unyielding. He raised a hand, and the crowd's chants grew louder, their faith in him absolute.
As the broadcast ended, the image of Justin Hammer standing tall, victorious, burned into the minds of every person watching.
There was no doubt. The God Emperor was born.
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Dark Aster, Kree Space.
A soldier kneels, a fist to his chest, head bowed, "Ronan, there is a messenger here for you. A woman sent by Thanos."
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Elsewhere, hidden,
"Thanos can deliver what you wish, all you need to do is obey." Ebony Maw said in an oily voice, protected by a sphere of energy.
"... Show us proof of this… Thanos' capabilities." Came the snide and arrogant reply.
Maw grinned as he lifted the scepter, the stone shining brightly, "As you wish…"
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