Marvel - The Blood God

Maverick's mocking words made the Witch-Heart Demon fume, dark energy practically steaming from its seven orifices. The demon roared, "You broke the contract! Aren't you afraid I'll kill you?"

"Oh, I'm terrified. Please, don't start the contract," Maverick said, feigning fear. As he spoke, the blood binding the Witch-Heart Demon tightened, compressing the demon with brutal force.

"Die!" The Witch-Heart Demon, enraged, activated the contract. Maverick's body blurred for a moment, as if phasing out of existence—but then, he stabilized as if nothing had happened.

"This can't be!" the demon shrieked, astonished. "Why aren't you dead?"

"Sorry," said Maverick with a disdainful smirk, "The Council of Blood taught me one thing: I don't die that easily."

With that, he compressed the Witch-Heart Demon until it was sealed in a blood sphere about the size of a basketball. The demon squirmed in vain, its mental voice howling, "Vampire, I swear you'll die for this!"

Though sealed in blood, the Witch-Heart Demon's psychic ranting still came through. Maverick called out, "Frank, let's finish this. Bring the truck over."

"On it." Frank contacted Coulson, then stepped out of his suit. As he approached, he asked worriedly, "Maverick, you sure you're okay? The devil's contract should've killed you."

Coulson and the three lesser demons—Wind Demon and Water Demon included—stared at Maverick in disbelief. How had he shrugged off that infernal bargain?

Maverick smiled faintly. "I'm fine. Don't worry."

In truth, he wasn't entirely unscathed. That move had come at a cost, but he kept that to himself. He refused to let Mephisto's schemes triumph.

Soon, Coulson pulled up in a heavy-duty truck. Inside was a device built by a Russian engineer named Ivan. Frank opened the container and said, "Let's get this done. Good thing Ivan built his machine roomy enough."

"Russians and their oversized designs," Maverick joked. He and Frank climbed into the container. Frank started the machine, feeding a rough piece of vibranium ore into it. When he nodded, Maverick thrust the blood sphere—demon and all—inside. A moment later, the sphere emerged coated in a thick layer of vibranium.

The Witch-Heart Demon raged inside the now-impenetrable cage. "Vampire! Mephisto's going to flay you alive!"

Frank frowned. "How can we still hear him? Isn't that sealed tight?"

"He's using his mind," Maverick explained. "He won't keep it up forever—he'll burn through his energy."

Frank looked doubtful. "Will vibranium really hold him?"

"Long enough," said Maverick. "Water Demon, wake Damon up. We need him. We're heading back to the cemetery."

Coulson approached, curious. "Mr. Cassain, what exactly happened before?"

Maverick answered as they worked. "Mephisto tried to trick me. I nearly got killed, but I managed to turn the tables."

"Mephisto himself showed up?" Coulson was astonished. He'd kept his distance during the chaos and hadn't seen the devil's arrival.

Damon, now awake and shaking off the lingering haze of possession, groaned, "Being controlled is worse than death."

Maverick placed a hand on his shoulder. "We've captured the Witch-Heart Demon. Now we'll get your soul back." Turning to the others, he said, "Frank, get back into your suit. Coulson, Damon, both of you—get in my car. Wind Demon, Water Demon, you two stay put. We'll be back."

They all agreed. Once everyone was settled, Maverick activated the flight mode of his custom sports car. With a roar, the sleek silver vehicle rose into the air, racing toward the cemetery at impossible speed.

Coulson's eyes widened. "Your car can fly?"

Maverick grinned. "For five hundred million dollars, it better."

Coulson muttered enviously, and as they flew, Maverick explained the previous encounter with Mephisto. Damon clenched his fists, blaming himself for Carter Slade's predicament.

"This has nothing to do with blame," said Maverick. "It's just Mephisto being Mephisto. I only hope Slade's alive, suffering just enough that Mephisto hasn't destroyed him outright."

But when they arrived at the old cemetery, the sight made Damon roar in fury. Carter Slade's body was pinned to his own shovel, lifeless. Damon's eyes burned with grief and rage.

Leaning on his cane, Mephisto stood there, mocking them. "Maverick Cassain. I underestimated you. You snagged the contract early and survived my trap."

Maverick raised his phone and snapped a picture of Mephisto. "A souvenir. Let's call it 'The Most Cunning and Disgraceful Devil of All Time.'"

Mephisto scowled. "Insults, really?"

"Just stating the facts," Maverick said. "Now, how about a trade? Your dear son for Damon's soul. Here's your brat." He lifted the vibranium sphere containing the Witch-Heart Demon. "Give me Damon's soul contract, and I'll hand him over."

Mephisto glanced at the sphere. "That worthless failure? You think I care?"

The Witch-Heart Demon screamed, "Father!" but Mephisto ignored it.

"You do care," Maverick said calmly. "You wouldn't create a son without reason. If you refuse, I'll take your precious heir on a world tour—book signings and all. Maybe 'My Demon Father, Mephisto' will hit the bestseller list."

Mephisto's face twisted. "You vampires are as low as I am."

Maverick just grinned. "One for one. Your son for Damon's soul contract."

Mephisto hesitated, then took out a soul scroll. "Damon's soul contract is right here."

Damon nodded. "I can feel my soul in that parchment."

Maverick stepped forward for the exchange. Everyone else tensed. No one trusted the devil. Mephisto raised his hand. Maverick reached for the contract. In a flash, a flaming angelic figure—an embodiment of the Spirit of Vengeance—burst from the scroll into Maverick's body, trying to burn him to ash from within.

"Sinner!" the Spirit of Vengeance howled, attempting to incinerate Maverick's blood and soul.

Maverick gritted his teeth, summoning a blood-forged chain hidden within himself. The chain latched onto the Spirit of Vengeance, preventing it from spreading. With a surge of will, he bound it tightly. His internal dragon soul stirred, starting to devour the invader's power.

"Surprised?" Maverick mocked, forcing a smile. "I expected something like this."

As Mephisto sneered, a blood spike shot out from under the vibranium sphere, impaling his illusory form. With a signal, Frank launched a missile, engulfing the figure in fire.

But it was a ruse. What they'd attacked was merely a projection. Mephisto's true form emerged from Carter Slade's corpse, forming a blade of shadowy energy and plunging it toward Maverick's heart.

Frank and Coulson fired, while Damon unleashed a spear of earth conjured from scorched ground. Mephisto fended them off with a barrier of foul smoke, then drove forward.

Yet as the blade neared Maverick's chest, Maverick's hand shot out and grabbed Mephisto's wrist, stopping him cold.

"What? You escaped the Spirit of Vengeance?" Mephisto was stunned.

Maverick grinned, exposing sharp fangs. "You're not the only one who can plan ahead." With his other hand, he reclaimed Damon's soul contract, now safely inside his coat. He then unleashed a volley of blood arrows that perforated Mephisto's body, black mist leaking from a hundred wounds.

Mephisto, merely a powered projection, snarled, "You'll regret this, vampire! We're not done!"

His form dissolved into shadow, leaving only empty air and bitter failure behind.

Inside the vibranium sphere, the Witch-Heart Demon roared in laughter. "Father, look at you flee! This is priceless!"

Maverick ignored the demon's taunts, breathing heavily. Frank rushed over. "You okay, Maverick?"

Maverick nodded. "I'll live. I have the Spirit of Vengeance inside me, but it's contained."

Damon stared, shocked. "You… you captured the Spirit of Vengeance? Are you a Rider now?"

"Not sure," Maverick replied. Inside, the dragon soul was quietly consuming the foreign entity's power. He'd figure it out later.

Maverick tossed the soul contract to Damon. "Check it. It's yours. We need to find a way to break it."

Damon opened the contract, relief washing over him. "It's real."

"Good," said Maverick. "Keep it safe. We're not done here." He glanced at the ruined old house at the edge of the cemetery. "Let's go inside. Carter Slade might have left something behind—or maybe he's not gone for good."

—

Carter Slade wasn't dead after all. He hung weakly on a makeshift cross, a shattered angel statue at his feet. When Maverick and the others entered, Slade's eyes lit up. "Looks like you won," he said, relieved. "That's good news."

Maverick smirked. "So the old cowboy's afraid of dying after all?"

"I never used to care," Slade said with a laugh. "But now that I've got money, I'm not eager to kick the bucket before I spend it."

Damon rushed over to free him. "We're lucky Mephisto didn't kill you."

"He wanted me to abandon my faith," Slade said, leaning heavily on Damon. "When I refused, he just tortured me. Killing me outright meant nothing to him."

"These gods and demons sure have their own twisted games," Maverick said. Then he frowned at Slade. "You don't look hurt, but you're weak. What's wrong?"

"Mephisto took the Spirit of Vengeance from me," Slade replied. He fixed his gaze on Maverick. "I can sense it's inside you now."

Maverick snorted. "So it was yours. It nearly killed me. Well, I 'ate' it, so I'm not giving it back."

Slade grinned, giving him a thumbs-up. "You swallowed it? Good riddance. I've been trying to get rid of that thing for a century. Give it a good kick from me while you're at it."

Damon's eyes lit up with sudden hope. "Maverick, can you swallow the Spirit of Vengeance in me too?"

Maverick shrugged. "Sure, if you get Mephisto to cough it up first."

Damon immediately backed down. "No thanks. That old devil's too cunning. I'm grateful just to have survived this mess."

Coulson approached. "Mr. Cassain, now that it's over, what are you going to do with the contract and the Witch-Heart Demon?"

Maverick shook his head. "Don't get any ideas." Turning to Damon, he said, "Same plan as before. Take the Witch-Heart Demon and the contract to Master Ancient One. She'll know what to do."

Damon hesitated, then nodded. "That's probably for the best. The Ancient One and Kamar-Taj have the power to handle him."

Inside the vibranium sphere, the Witch-Heart Demon panicked at the mention of the Ancient One. "No! I don't want to see her!" it shrieked. But everyone ignored it. Earth Demon glanced at it with pity. The demon's fate would be worse than death.

Coulson brightened up. "You actually know where the Ancient One lives?"

Maverick patted Coulson's shoulder. "I do, but don't worry—I'm not telling you."

Coulson muttered under his breath. Maverick stretched and said, "It's time to celebrate. I've heard great things about Texas girls."

Carter Slade laughed. "You won't be disappointed. They're the warmest gals in America."

Maverick noted the old cowboy's carefree mood. He knew Slade's days were numbered now that he'd lost the Spirit of Vengeance, but the man seemed at peace. His only worry was how to spend that fortune in the short time he had left.

…

Later, at a Houston mansion, Maverick handed Damon the vibranium-sealed Witch-Heart Demon and the Saint Van Gonzalo contract. "Take my private plane back to New York," he said. "Show proper respect to the Ancient One. She deserves it."

Damon nodded. "She must be extraordinary if you speak so highly of her." Holding the demon sphere and the contract, he added, "Take care of Mindy for me. If she really can't stand school, don't push too hard. She's not a normal kid."

Maverick nodded. "We'll give it a year and see."

He watched Damon depart, then summoned the three lesser demons—Earth Demon, Water Demon, and Wind Demon—and displayed the black feather he'd taken. "Any idea what this is?"

The three looked uneasy. Earth Demon cleared his throat. "I think it's a fallen angel's feather."

Maverick arched a brow. "A fallen angel, huh? Seems there's another big player in the shadows."

He tucked the feather away and addressed the demons. "From now on, you three work for me. I'll give you proper papers and pay."

Overjoyed, all three shouted, "Boss!"

Maverick smiled faintly. "What do you want to do? I'll assign you accordingly."

Water Demon spoke first. "I just want a stable place near water."

Maverick thought a moment. "I can station you at an Osborn Group research base as a guard. Fifty-thousand a month. Interested?"

Water Demon almost wept with joy. "Thank you, Boss!"

Maverick turned to Earth Demon. "What about you?"

"I'm not a fighter," Earth Demon admitted. "You mentioned construction before. I'd like that."

"Fine. You'll work construction sites. Base pay is thirty-thousand, plus bonuses for extra work."

"Thank you, Boss!"

Finally, Maverick faced Wind Demon. "And you?"

Wind Demon hesitated. "Boss, I… I want to be a superhero."

Both Water Demon and Earth Demon stared in shock. Earth Demon even blurted, "Are you crazy? We're demons!"

Maverick waved him off. "Who says a demon can't be a hero? Wind Demon, I support you. But understand, heroes follow rules. If you break them, you don't just get fired—you die. Because you belong to me, and I don't tolerate betrayal."

Wind Demon shivered. "I understand, Boss. I'll be a true hero."

Maverick nodded. "Report to the Watchmen team. New York's getting dangerous. We need more heroes."

"Thank you, Boss!" Wind Demon said excitedly, while the other two watched, disbelieving that a demon could be a superhero.

After settling the trio's futures, Maverick considered his gains. He had Damon's soul restored, recruited three demons, and confronted Mephisto. He also gained the Witch-Heart Demon's original blood and the Spirit of Vengeance—both would significantly boost his strength. His efforts had paid off.

He closed his eyes, sensing the changes in his body. The dragon soul within him was devouring the Spirit of Vengeance's power, bit by bit. It would take about three months. Maverick decided he'd stay in Texas and take it easy. He couldn't always be in New York, anyway, and traveling never lacked new pleasures.

…

On Bleecker Street in New York, Damon approached the doorway to 177A. The street warped before his eyes, and he suddenly found himself in a rustic chamber. He stumbled, nearly falling.

"Have a seat, Ghost Rider," said a calm voice.

Damon turned to see a serene, bald woman in flowing yellow robes pouring tea. Her gaze seemed to pierce through reality.

"You're the Ancient One?" Damon asked, awed.

She nodded lightly. "Yes. Please, sit."

Uncertain, Damon sat down. "You know me?"

She smiled. "It's hard not to, with everything that's happened in New York."

Damon frowned. "Then why didn't you step in?"

The Ancient One took a sip of tea. "Because certain matters are best handled by others. I prefer enjoying a bit of sunshine when I can."

Damon was stunned. The Ancient One seemed like a peaceful retiree who'd rather sip tea than meddle in battles.

He shook his head and asked, "Master, I brought you the Witch-Heart Demon and the Saint Van Gonzalo contract. Can you handle them?"

The demon, once so arrogant, was now utterly silent inside its prison. Damon could sense its terror.

The Ancient One traced a hand over the vibranium sphere and the contract, and both vanished. "Of course," she said kindly. "That's part of my responsibility."

Damon hesitated again. "Master… can you remove the Spirit of Vengeance from me? I'd rather just be human."

She shook her head. "That's impossible. Your bloodline's purpose is to carry it. Let me tell you the Spirit's origin…"

"Origin?" Damon echoed, surprised.

The Ancient One began her tale. "Over twenty-thousand years ago…"

Damon nearly spit out his tea. Twenty-thousand years? This was older than he ever imagined.

…

Time flew by. Before long, 2008 had ended, and 2009 had arrived.

At a research facility outside New York, Dr. Bruce Banner and Betty Ross were busy welcoming a group of top-tier psychologists and educators—experts gathered to determine if Hulk could be taught to control his rage.

Among the experts was Chancellor Casey of Stanford University, a respected academic figure. Banner greeted her personally.

"Dr. Banner," she said, "I hope you'll end this Hulk problem soon and return to serious research."

Banner nodded. "That's the plan. If Hulk can't be taught, I'll know where to focus my efforts."

Chancellor Casey looked around. "Your backer must be extraordinary, bringing so many leading experts together."

Banner managed a wry smile. "He always says he has nothing but money."

As they spoke, Ivan strolled by, tapping at a tablet. "Banner, I've got to block Tony's attempts to hack our feed. He's trying to watch the live broadcast."

Banner shook his head, amused. Tony Stark and Ivan were eternal rivals.

Soon, the Electro-man entered, looking exhausted. "Didn't sleep last night. Too many criminals out there. Ever since the Kingpin vanished, New York's been even crazier. Gangs knock over banks daily now, stocking up on enhancement drugs. It's chaos."

Banner was shocked. "Every day?"

Electro-man nodded. "It's bad. But don't worry about that. I'll rest up and guard Dr. Ross."

Banner watched him go, feeling slightly detached. The world seemed to be changing faster than he could keep up.

Just then, a holographic screen lit up. Maverick Cassain's face appeared. Everyone stood and greeted him. "Mr. Cassain!"

Maverick nodded. "I'm tied up elsewhere and can't return to New York right now, but I'll watch the entire process remotely."

Banner took a deep breath. "Thank you, Mr. Cassain. Let's see if the Hulk can be taught."

—

In an old, abandoned park, Banner, dressed in shorts, glanced at Betty with concern. "Betty, be careful out there," he warned softly.

Standing near a leaning metal tower, Dr. Betty Ross gave a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Bruce. Hulk won't hurt me. Besides, Max is watching my back."

About ten meters away stood Max, confident and alert. "Dr. Banner, relax. With me here, Dr. Ross is in no danger."

Banner nodded. "All right, let's begin."

Betty pressed a controller, disabling the device that had restrained Banner's transformation. Banner's heart rate surged. He took a deep breath, his skin turning green. In seconds, the Hulk emerged, roaring at the sky.

After bellowing, Hulk glared at Betty, clearly annoyed. Turning away, he punched a massive boulder and smashed it to pieces, then rampaged through the debris, tearing the abandoned park apart like an overgrown, angry child. The stands shook, and the group of experts watching felt a chill run down their spines. Seeing the Hulk in person was far more intimidating than any footage they'd studied.

Principal Casey of Stanford frowned. "How can a creature like this be taught?" Several experts shook their heads, sharing the sentiment.

Max observed calmly. "The big guy's upset, probably furious about being restrained."

Betty nodded. "He's letting out his anger. Let's move on to the next step!"

Hidden behind a billboard, Ivan nodded and commanded Hero Four—a large mechanical unit—to emerge. Hero Four lobbed a stone toward Betty.

Betty let out a staged scream. Hulk whirled instantly, saw Betty in trouble, and leapt forward. With a single blow, he shattered the incoming stone. Then he roared at Hero Four, furious that it had dared threaten Betty.

Hero Four raised its shield, taunting the Hulk. That only enraged him further. Hulk slammed down his fists like hammers. Hero Four's shield held firm, but the impact drove the machine backward, leaving deep imprints in the ground.

Ivan watched from afar. "He's stronger than the last time we saw him," he muttered, recalling how Hulk had once been weaker. Now at full strength, he was a true force of nature.

"Hulk, smash!" the green giant growled, lunging forward like a savage beast. Ivan, controlling Hero Four, stayed calm, gathering data as Hulk's blows crushed trees and churned the soil. Within minutes, the once-peaceful park was a wasteland.

The experts trembled. "He's enjoying the fight," said one, wiping sweat from his brow. "This isn't a mind you can enlighten." Others nodded, some even taking anxiety meds on the spot. Hulk was terrifying.

High above, on a holographic feed, Maverick observed quietly. He didn't try to reassure anyone. Hulk was meant to be powerful and primal. A Hulk too tame would be worthless in a fight. Maverick needed this incarnation of pure rage for future battles.

Just then, Ivan's voice crackled over the comm. "Dr. Ross, we've got enough data. Let's move on."

Betty acknowledged, "Understood, I'm ready."

With a press of a button, the base of the tower behind Betty gave way, and it toppled toward her. Betty feigned panic, freezing in place.

Hulk's head snapped around, eyes widening. Without hesitation, he abandoned the fight and rushed to Betty. Planting his feet, he caught the massive structure, straining under its weight. His feet sank into the ground. "Run!" he growled, urging her to safety.

Betty pretended to stumble and fall, and Max struggled not to laugh at the staged drama. Hulk grew anxious. He couldn't dodge Ivan's next move without letting Betty die.

Heavy footsteps approached. Ivan, wielding a vibranium axe, charged at Hulk's exposed back. Hulk flinched—he remembered that weapon. He recalled how Abomination's arm nearly got severed by it. The axe meant pain, maybe death.

But if Hulk dodged or freed a hand, Betty would be crushed. He made his choice. He wouldn't abandon her.

"Hulk!" he roared, muscles shaking but refusing to let go. In his eyes burned a fierce resolve. Betty's heart clenched. Only Banner would love her so selflessly.

At the last instant, Ivan halted the axe a hair's breadth from Hulk's neck. He chuckled. "You've got guts, big guy. I'll buy you a drink sometime—real men drink vodka." He eased the axe away and helped Hulk lift the tower, balancing it until Betty moved aside.

Hulk looked around, utterly confused by this sudden shift.

Applause broke out. Maverick and Max clapped, as did Principal Casey and a few experts. Casey smiled wryly, "I thought we were here to evaluate him, but this was like watching a romantic play."

A scruffy expert chimed in, "Beauty and the Beast. I kinda liked it."

Once the cheers died down, Maverick's voice came through the speakers. "So, experts, can the Hulk be taught?"

They exchanged glances. Principal Casey answered, "Without Betty, I'd say put him down. But with Betty, yes, he can learn."

"He cares about her more than himself," added another expert. "That's a heart that can be guided."

"As long as there's love, even a beast can be taught," said another.

The consensus was clear. Maverick nodded. "Excellent. Would you all help educate him? Compensation will be generous." Some experts nodded eagerly; others hesitated.

Maverick turned to his assistant. "Lilith, negotiate with our guests."

Lilith nodded confidently. With these experts' help—and Betty's presence—Hulk's mind could be developed.

With the tower safely removed, Hulk looked at Ivan with lingering suspicion. Betty coaxed him, "Hulk, lower your head." Confused, the giant obeyed. Betty leaned in and kissed his cheek. "Thank you, Hulk."

Hulk's eyes widened in disbelief, then he jumped around like a delighted child—only to slip and fall flat on his back. The crowd burst into laughter.

Maverick smiled, satisfied. "Hulk," he said quietly, "whether you're human or monster depends on you."

Hulk tilted his head, puzzled, not fully grasping the words. Maverick turned off the hologram feed and stepped away.

On a farm in Texas, Maverick lowered his hand, watching the fiery glow fade from his palm. He'd finally finished assimilating the Spirit of Vengeance's power. Devouring it had taken months in isolation, but now it was done.

"No more Spirit of Vengeance—only my own flame," he murmured with a grin.

Outside the barn, Frank knocked and came in. "You did it?"

Maverick grinned. "Yeah. Total success."

Frank looked curious. "So what did you actually gain?"

"This," Maverick said, igniting a crimson flame in his hand and using it to charge his phone. "See that battery icon? A full charge! I'll never need a charger again."

Frank stared blankly. "Months of work just to charge your phone?"

Maverick scoffed. "You can't possibly understand the torment of a dead battery."

Frank rolled his eyes. "I'm going to get that thoroughbred horse you bought. You said you wanted to ride?"

Maverick nodded. A few minutes later, wearing a cowboy hat, he mounted a magnificent, fiery-red stallion. "Watch this!" he called to Frank.

His entire body ignited with dragon fire, the flames spreading to the horse. Frank panicked, "Maverick, careful! That horse cost millions!"

"Relax," Maverick laughed. Instead of screaming, the horse exhaled flames from its nostrils, energized and excited. At Maverick's shout, "Go!" they dashed forward, leaving a blazing trail of hoofprints.

Frank couldn't help but shout, "That's incredible!"

Maverick whooped with delight as they raced across the fields. Moments later, Damon appeared on a Harley, shocked by the fiery horse and rider. "Maverick, let's race!"

Maverick grinned. "I'll give you a head start." The horse surged ahead, leaving Damon far behind.

Damon gave up after a while and shook his head. "Didn't think I'd be outrun by a horse."

Maverick circled back. Dismounting, he withdrew the flames. Damon stared. "You can show that form during the day?"

Maverick shrugged. "I'm not transformed. I've just absorbed the Spirit's abilities."

"How was the trip to the New York Temple?" he asked Damon.

"Great. I can control my Spirit of Vengeance now." Damon's face lit up. "I'm going back to see Mindy."

Maverick smirked. "Mindy's been asking where you vanished to. No signal up there?"

Damon shook his head. "I was training." He pulled out an ancient tome. "The Ancient One gave me this. It's a method to strengthen the soul. Thought you'd be interested."

Maverick raised a brow. "You got this from the Ancient One?"

"She said knowledge should be shared," Damon explained. "But keep it private, okay?"

"Of course. Thanks." Maverick took the book, thrilled at the chance to strengthen his soul. It could lead to even greater power.

Damon asked, "The Ancient One ever mention you?"

Maverick chuckled. "No? Good. Keeps my ego in check."

In truth, the book was the Ancient One's gift to Maverick, a quiet thank-you for thwarting Mephisto's plans.

Maverick eyed Damon. "So, what's next?"

"I'll head back to New York and see Mindy," Damon said.

"And after that?" Maverick mused. "Just be a dad?"

Damon shrugged. "I haven't thought that far."

Maverick folded his arms. "With Kingpin gone, New York's a mess. Commissioner George is desperate. He even asked his daughter to negotiate discounts on equipment from me. The city's broke."

Damon frowned. "What's that got to do with me?"

"Ever consider rejoining the force?" Maverick asked. "I can sell them special armor at cost. In return, the rights to your hero persona go to me. They can't afford it otherwise."

Damon hesitated. Maverick added with a grin, "We're calling the armor 'Sin Buster.' By day, you're a Sin Buster—by night, a Ghost Rider. Perfect fit, right?"

Damon grimaced at the name. "That's terrible. Now I'm less interested."

Maverick laughed. "Commissioner George came up with it. Complain to him if you dare."

Damon sighed. "Fine. I'll think about it. Will George even agree?"

"He has no choice," Maverick said. "He's out of cash and options."

"Damn capitalists," Damon muttered. "You even have the NYPD dancing to your tune."

Damon paused, then asked, "By the way, what about Carter Slade? Is he…?"

Maverick smiled softly. "He took a bunch of lovely women and set off to travel the world a month ago. That old cowboy knew how to live free."

Damon nodded, "Good for him. A real cowboy at heart."

—

That night, Maverick, Damon, and Frank celebrated on the farm. Maverick and Damon even sparred again, though this time they nearly avoided setting the pasture ablaze.

After a night of revelry, Damon departed on a private jet back to New York. He had been in Texas previously, and the Ancient One had opened a portal to send him here earlier.

"Frank, get ready. We're heading to New Mexico tomorrow!" Maverick said. Frank asked, "Is there really something legendary there?"

Maverick smirked, "Yes, why? Are you afraid?"

"I'm just worried he'll disappoint me, like that devil did," Frank joked, then turned to go prepare. His Hero No. 2 suit had been sent back by Ivan for improvements, and he needed to retrieve it.

After Frank left, Maverick took out his phone and called Banner. Banner, sounding resigned, said, "Since the experts believe the Hulk can be taught, let's try it."

Maverick smiled. "Banner, one day you'll see this was the right decision."

"I hope so," Banner replied, then ended the call.

"Both Banner and the Hulk are important," Maverick said quietly. He then contacted Ivan. "Is the War Abomination armor ready?"

"It's done, but it hasn't been tested," Ivan answered. "Also, Abomination and the electronic bio-brain are still adapting to each other."

"Schedule a test as soon as possible," Maverick instructed. "War Abomination might be useful soon."

"Really? Can't wait," Ivan said eagerly. "Not only War Abomination, my new suit is also waiting for its grand debut!"

"There'll be a chance," Maverick said, hanging up with a grin. He thought for a moment and then called the Snowman.

"Council of Blood, Captain America is about to wake up!" the Snowman reported happily. They had unearthed the hero two months ago and had been helping him regain his vitality ever since.

Maverick asked, "Has S.H.I.E.L.D. tried sending in spies?"

"Don't worry," the Snowman replied. "They hear nothing useful."

Maverick said, "Actually, let them hear something. Let them learn that Captain America is about to awaken."

The Snowman sounded puzzled. "Why?"

"Because to us, Captain America might just be muscle, but to S.H.I.E.L.D., he's a symbol," Maverick said calmly. "Leak the news, let Nick Fury jump through hoops to retrieve Carter and stabilize that living legend."

The Snowman didn't press further. "Understood, Council of Blood."

Hanging up, Maverick narrowed his eyes. "S.H.I.E.L.D., let's see how you play this."

…

In a small town in New Mexico called Ampute Antigor, a blond man was rushed to the hospital after a strange accident involving a car and electrical discharge. When he awoke, he grew violent, shoving doctors and injuring several nurses.

Security subdued him, and after a sedative, the man—who claimed to be Odin's son—collapsed. The hospital decided to draw his blood for tests. The doctor discreetly collected an extra vial and delivered it to the dean's office.

Maverick Cassain held the test tube up to the light. "God's blood looks no different from human blood," he mused.

Frank raised an eyebrow. "That guy's a god? He went down pretty easy. He looks human enough to me."

"A god temporarily stripped of his power," Maverick remarked. He slipped the sample into a container that would send it back to New York for later analysis.

Frank joked, "Not having a taste? You are a vampire, right?"

Maverick shook his head. "I'm still digesting the Witch-Heart Demon's blood. Besides, who knows what's in this one."

Frank shrugged. "Always careful, huh? By the way, was that doctor bribed by you?"

"No, I own this hospital," Maverick said casually. "About a quarter of the hospitals in the U.S. are run by our kind. Ever wonder why we never run short on blood bags?" He grinned. "Anyway, let's head out. We need to find our local team."

"Who?" Frank asked.

"My staff," said Maverick.

…

At a small rental house, Jane Foster was reviewing the strange pictures she and her team had taken. Daisy Lewis opened the door when the bell rang, finding an elegant-looking Asian man and a tough white man beside him.

"Sorry, we're busy," Daisy said.

Maverick smiled. "I'll say one thing that will make you very happy to let me in."

Daisy crossed her arms. "Go ahead, one sentence. Then I'm shutting the door."

"My name is Maverick Cassain. I'm the one funding your astronomical research foundation," he said calmly.

"What?" Daisy, Jane, and Dr. Erik Selvig froze. A moment later, Selvig hurried over, smiling widely. "Mr. Cassain! Pleasure to meet you, I'm Dr. Selvig."

Maverick shook his hand. "A pleasure."

"Please, come in!" Daisy said quickly, and Jane hurried over, too, suddenly anxious to make a good impression. After all, generous sponsors were rare in their field.

Maverick strolled in. "Just wanted to drop by. I was traveling nearby and remembered my investment. Any recent discoveries?"

Dr. Selvig and Jane looked at each other awkwardly. "We're still reviewing data," Selvig said, trying to sound confident.

Maverick seemed relaxed. "No rush. Continue your work. I'll just watch. Daisy, could you keep me company?"

Daisy looked pleased. "Of course, Mr. Cassain." She sat next to him, curious and a bit charmed.

Meanwhile, Jane and Selvig studied their photos again. Maverick watched quietly. Turning to Daisy, he said, "You know, I'm starting a new TV series called 'Broken Sisters.' You'd fit the lead role perfectly."

Daisy's eyes lit up. "You're serious? You funded that hit movie 'Blade Warrior,' right? You really want me as the lead?"

Maverick nodded. "Yes, and yes."

Daisy nearly melted with excitement. Meanwhile, Jane suddenly noticed something in a photo. "Wait, that figure in the storm—there's a person there!"

Selvig and Daisy rushed over. Indeed, there was a blurry shape of a man caught above the storm.

"Let's go find him now!" Jane said eagerly. Selvig hesitated, then looked at Maverick. "Mr. Cassain, we need to go out."

Maverick nodded. "Go. Daisy, stay with me. Frank, go with them. Keep them safe."

Daisy, eyeing her bright future, readily agreed to stay. Jane and Selvig exchanged glances and hurried out with Frank.

…

At the hospital, they spotted the strange blond man fleeing outside. Jane recognized him immediately: "It's him!" The man ran straight at them. Frank stepped forward to shield Selvig and Jane. Mistaking Frank's move as a threat, the blond man swung.

Frank blocked the punch and retaliated, causing the blond man to stumble back. Shocked, the stranger snarled, "How dare you strike the son of Odin!"

Frank just snorted. The "god" rushed again, but Frank dodged easily and decked him, knocking him down. Each time the blond man charged, Frank countered and sent him tumbling.

The stranger cried out, "Father!" each time he fell, confusing Frank. Still, Frank knocked him out cold to end the scuffle. Gathering him up, they hurried back to the rental house before hospital security caused trouble.

…

In the rental home, the blond man had changed clothes and was now devouring food and drink as if he hadn't eaten in days. Maverick studied him with curiosity. "You say you're Thor, Prince of Asgard?"

"Yes," the man said, wiping beer foam from his beard. He slammed the mug down hard, denting the floor. "More! This mortal brew is fine!"

Daisy rolled her eyes. "Stop slamming things! I have to clean that up."

Jane shook her head. "Asgard? It's just a myth." She honestly believed he was delusional.

"Asgard is real," Maverick said calmly. "They call Earth 'Midgard.'"

Selvig, Jane, and Daisy looked at Maverick like he was nuts too.

Thor nodded eagerly. "Yes, Midgard is Earth. I am Thor, son of Odin, the God of Thunder!"

Maverick sized him up. "If you are Thor, why were you stripped of power?" he asked.

"Because my father, Odin, has grown weak. He wouldn't retaliate properly against the Frost Giants, and he blamed me for wanting to act when he hesitated…" Thor complained loudly, still refusing to see his own faults.

After listening, Frank crossed his arms. "If you really are Thor, it's a good thing you lost the throne for now. You act like a reckless child."

Thor roared, "You dare insult me, mortal?" and tried to attack again. Frank effortlessly knocked him flat. Once more, Thor cried out, "Father!" as if calling for Odin.

Maverick chuckled. "He's calling for Odin, not surrendering."

Daisy snorted. "Real godly behavior."

Thor insisted he'd regain his power once he reclaimed his hammer, Mjolnir. Jane and Selvig looked doubtful, but the mention of a strange hammer piqued their curiosity.

Just then, there was a knock at the door.

—

"There's been a steady stream of visitors lately," Jane said with a sigh. She went to the door and opened it, finding a middle-aged man with thinning hair and a gentle smile standing there.

"Hello, Dr. Foster," the man said politely. "I'm Agent Phil Coulson from S.H.I.E.L.D. We're investigating a national defense matter and need to collect your recent atmospheric and weather data."

"What?" Jane protested immediately. "That's my life's work! You can't just take it!"

Coulson maintained his calm demeanor. "I'm sorry, but this doesn't require your permission. S.H.I.E.L.D. will compensate you for any losses."

Without waiting for a response, he motioned for his agents to move in. Jane nearly exploded with anger, but before she could speak again, Maverick smiled and said, "Coulson, I'm surprised to see you being so heavy-handed."

Coulson paused, looking inside and spotting Maverick. He glanced over the scene—Thor sprawled out, the mess on the floor—and asked, "Mr. Cassain, what brings you here?"

"If I said I was just traveling, you wouldn't buy it," Maverick replied with a grin. "What's going on?"

Coulson hesitated before walking into the room. "A hammer fell from the sky. No matter what we try, we can't budge it."

"Mjolnir!" Thor exclaimed, jumping up despite his bruises. He seized Coulson by the collar, excitement shining in his eyes. "That's mine! Where is it?"

Confused, Coulson managed, "What? Meow…?"

"Where is it?" Thor demanded urgently. "It belongs to me!"

Coulson carefully pushed Thor back a step. "Sir, that object is government property now. It doesn't belong to anyone."

"You dare claim my hammer?" Thor shouted, rage flaring. In his current state, he didn't understand these strange Midgard weapons the agents aimed at him. He started to swing a fist, but Maverick's voice cut through the tension.

"Thor, let's make a deal," Maverick said calmly.

Thor paused, turning. "What deal?"

Maverick said, "I don't know if you really are Thor, but I can give you a chance to try and lift that hammer again. In return, you'll sign away all rights to your name and likeness here on Earth. Consider it some sort of copyright—meaning I can use your image and story however I see fit."

Thor gave a dismissive snort. "Copyright? I don't know what that is. If you want it, you can have it."

"Excellent. Sign here." Maverick glanced at Frank, who pulled a blank sheet of paper from a nearby bag and held it out. Thor, impatient to get his hammer back, signed without a second thought.

Coulson frowned. "Mr. Cassain, isn't this a bit…unorthodox?"

Maverick shrugged. "Coulson, if he's not Thor, what's the harm in letting him try? The hammer can't be damaged anyway. But if he really is Thor, this situation is quite significant, wouldn't you agree?"

Coulson thought it over and sighed. "I'll have to report this to Director Fury."

"That's your call," Maverick said. He stood up and gestured grandly. "Let's go see this hammer."

Thor grinned. "At last! I'll prove once and for all who I really am!"

Coulson could only smile wryly. He had no real way to stop Maverick from joining them. Resigned, he led everyone out, calling Fury to keep him informed.

"Son of Odin?" Fury said, standing in a remote Arctic outpost. He frowned at the news. "Do as Cassain says. Keep me updated."

…

S.H.I.E.L.D. had erected a temporary site where the hammer had landed. Coulson and another bald senior agent, Jasper Sitwell, were on hand. They'd received orders from Fury and didn't try to bar the group's entry.

Thor leaped down into the crater without waiting for permission. The sky darkened suddenly, bolts of lightning flashed, and the entire base's electronics flickered. Agents exchanged uneasy looks. Was he truly who he claimed to be?

Maverick watched silently, making no move. Unless Odin was truly gone, nobody else could claim Mjolnir. If someone managed it, that person would have to be dealt with. Odin, who had ruled the Nine Realms for ages, was no fool.

"Prepare yourselves to witness the return of the mighty Thor!" Thor announced. He stepped forward and gripped the hammer's handle confidently. Yet, it didn't budge. Confused, Thor grunted and tried again. Nothing. He pulled harder, bracing his feet on the stone surface, straining with all his might. Still nothing.

"This…this can't be!" Thor released the handle, looking skyward in shock. "Father, why?"

Frank folded his arms. "Why does he keep calling for his father?"

Coulson glanced at Maverick. "I guess he's not Thor after all."

"No, he is," Maverick said quietly, noting the flickering lights and the sudden rain pouring down. "His power is sealed, but not completely gone. Otherwise, there would be no thunder and lightning at all."

With a thundering crash, heavy rain descended. Thor collapsed to his knees, despair filling his eyes. He realized now that Odin had truly denied him his birthright. Seeing the broken man, Jane's heart softened.

Maverick ordered calmly, "Find him a place to rest."

Coulson hesitated—he didn't like being ordered around like this—but ended up doing as asked. While agents led Thor away, Coulson turned to Maverick. "If he is Thor, what does that mean?"

Maverick looked serious. "Thor is legendary across the Nine Realms. If word gets out that he's here and powerless, old enemies might come looking. And Odin has another son, you know."

Coulson's eyes widened as he grasped the implications. "Another heir…a power struggle?"

Maverick nodded vaguely. "Get ready. I sense bloodshed ahead."

Coulson rushed off to report. Meanwhile, Loki, Thor's brother, used a projection to appear near the hammer and speak to Thor. He lied, telling Thor that Odin had died from the shock of his recklessness. Thor, devastated, wept bitterly and begged Loki for a chance to return to Asgard, but Loki claimed Thor was exiled forever.

When Loki left, Maverick entered, seeing Thor's tear-streaked face. "What's wrong?" he asked softly.

Thor explained, voice hollow, "I've angered my father, and he's gone now. I've lost everything."

Maverick sighed. "Thor, mourning is human—well, mortal. But if you want to honor your father's memory, you need to become the man he wanted you to be. Only then can you return home with pride."

Thor's eyes hardened with resolve. "I'll change. I'll be worthy. I'll return and make things right."

Invisible nearby, Loki listened grimly. If Thor meant to return home worthy, then Loki's throne was at risk. Odin was not truly dead—he was in the Odinsleep, recovering. Once Thor proved himself, he would lift Mjolnir again.

Determined, Loki traveled to Jotunheim, home of the Frost Giants, promising Laufey, their king, a secret path to Midgard and revealing Thor's powerless state. If Laufey captured Thor, he could trade him for the Casket of Ancient Winters. After sealing the bargain, Loki returned to Asgard. In his mind, once Laufey struck, Loki could avenge himself by wiping out the Frost Giants entirely, claiming Asgard's throne with no rivals left.

On Earth, Director Fury, still in the Arctic searching for Captain America, listened to Coulson's report and scowled. "Gods so soon," he muttered. "Coulson, fortify the area. There's a supply depot in the mountains behind Ampute Antigor. Gather what you need. I'll contact the military to keep watch."

Coulson obeyed. He wasn't shocked; S.H.I.E.L.D. had hidden assets everywhere.

Fury hung up, irritated that Coulson didn't even sound surprised—no chance to impress the team. He strode into a remote facility, ready to confront Carter and secure Captain America for S.H.I.E.L.D. at all costs.

…

The next night, outside a farm near town, Thor and Jane sat sipping drinks. They'd grown closer, leaning in and talking softly. Not far away, Maverick lounged on a chair, an arm around Daisy. He observed the pair for a moment, amused. "They make a charming couple, don't they?"

Daisy asked, "What's so funny, Maverick?"

He grinned. "You seem heavier on my lap than before," he teased.

"Hey!" Daisy protested. "Where exactly do you think I'm heavy?"

Just then, Maverick's phone rang. Gunfire crackled in the background. Coulson's frantic voice shouted, "Mr. Cassain, a large group of hostile beings is approaching. We're trying to hold them off, but we can't last!"

Maverick stood up, gently easing Daisy aside. He called over to Frank, "Frank, bring the drones online!"

Frank, seated before several pieces of equipment, nodded. The drone's feed projected a holographic image onto the yard. They saw S.H.I.E.L.D. agents firing desperately at towering Frost Giants. Standard rifles barely scratched them—only machine guns and rockets had any real effect, and those were in short supply.

Daisy gasped. "What are those things?"

Thor, seeing the image, cried, "Frost Giants! How did they find me?"

Maverick said calmly, "If I had to guess, they're here to settle a score with you. Frank, get a count."

Frank adjusted the drone's angle. "About five or six hundred. Coulson's men don't have enough firepower to hold out."

Maverick considered the odds. "We have no choice. Frank, suit up."

Frank emerged in a newly improved black-and-white battlesuit, a stark skull emblem across his chest. "Call me Punisher," he said firmly.

Maverick raised an eyebrow. "Really? Still going with that?" He then gave a half-smile. "Fine. Suit yourself."

"Is that an Iron Man armor?" Jane asked in astonishment.

Maverick responded, "It's a Heroic-class suit developed by Osborn Industries."

Daisy gawked. "Osborn? You're…you own Osborn Industries?"

Maverick nodded. "Yes."

While Jane and Daisy looked stunned, Thor said uncertainly, "What's so special about that armor? I'm…well, I used to be a prince. Isn't that impressive?"

Jane turned her attention back to Thor, concern in her eyes. Before anyone could say more, two armored figures descended from the sky, taking position at the farm's entrance.

---

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