"Stark loves you!"
Jason stared at the small, adorable, and childish big-headed toy before him, falling into deep contemplation.
He was currently at the Stark Industries Expo, though it was more accurately called a robotics theme park now.
Simply put, Stark was obsessed.
He hadn't just developed the agricultural robot [Unauthorized modification into combat units is strictly prohibited], but also an array of other mechanical servants.
For instance, there was the big-headed toy proclaiming "Stark loves you," a trash can-shaped cleaning robot, a slim and elegant housekeeping android.
Plus an entire line of powerful civilian machinery including mining robots, exploration units, and deep-sea equipment, all marked [Unauthorized modifications strictly prohibited].
Jason suspected the former arms dealer had discovered how much money remained in the weapons business but couldn't publicly backtrack, so he'd chosen this backdoor approach, selling weapons under the guise of civilian technology.
What bothered him was the timeline. After his captivity in Afghanistan, hadn't Stark supposedly turned over a new leaf? Why this regression to arms dealing?
That's why he'd brought Yinsen, who'd shared Stark's trials in that cave, to confront him directly.
Deep down, Jason hoped Stark might still be the genuine hero he claimed to be—just, brave, and dedicated to mankind's betterment.
Why? Because manipulating a good man through his own righteousness was far easier.
Soon, they met Stark, who'd arranged a small celebration for distinguished guests.
Maintaining his low profile, Jason wore an elegant half-mask that stood out yet prevented unnecessary attention.
The atmosphere buzzed with energy as blonde servers in bunny costumes and black stockings maneuvered through the crowd.
In the center, Stark embraced a stunning redhead with perfect styling, entertaining his audience with theatrical gestures.
Jason immediately noticed Pepper Potts sitting alone in a corner, radiating loneliness.
He tapped Yinsen's shoulder. "You should talk to Stark."
Yinsen, still furious about Stark resuming weapon sales after his hometown was destroyed by Stark Industries munitions, stormed over immediately.
Jason collected some cake from the refreshment table and approached Pepper.
Pepper seemed mildly surprised by his approach. "Care for some cake?"
"No thank you, Mr. Jason."
She clearly recognized him, though her smile seemed strained as she kept watching Stark perform for his crowd.
"What's the story?" Jason gestured toward the commotion. "How did he revert to being such an ass?"
Pepper's laugh carried bitterness. "I honestly don't know. I'm no longer CEO of Stark Industries. He's... changed. This isn't the same Stark I knew."
Jason frowned at this news.
Just then, Stark and Yinsen's conversation escalated into a visible argument. The normally mild-mannered Yinsen left red-faced with frustration, while Stark pulled his model closer and laughed, catching sight of Pepper before spotting Jason.
His expression transformed instantly. He pushed the redhead away and approached aggressively.
Jason stroked his chin thoughtfully. "You won't blame me if I knock out a couple of his teeth, will you?"
"I'm sorry?"
Pepper looked confused as Stark arrived, wearing a mocking expression. "Look who's here—our beloved hero, the great Savior himself! What brings you to my modest gathering?"
Thankfully, the music volume prevented others from hearing his sarcasm clearly.
Jason studied him briefly before proposing, "Interested in joining the Avengers? I'll make you team leader."
Stark laughed dismissively. "I've told you—you can't afford me!"
"Heroes talking about money? How vulgar. Remember our conversation at Hopewell Sanctuary? Tony Stark, who do you want to be in this lifetime?"
Stark snorted, positioning himself between Jason and Pepper. "Life's brief—enjoy it while you can. I don't care about identity labels."
"So your plan is to return to arms dealing, destabilize the world, and kill more civilians?"
Stark's lips curled upward. "Be careful—I might sue you for defamation. I exclusively sell civilian products now. Nothing remotely military! Haven't you grasped the bigger picture? I'm initiating the third industrial revolution. The Arc Reactor will solve global energy crises, and with advanced artificial intelligence, I'll be immortalized in textbooks! They'll erect statues in my honor!"
Jason turned to face him directly. "I believe you're not starting the Third Industrial Revolution—you're igniting World War Three!"
"You're overreacting!"
You're lost.
Looking at Stark before him, Jason weighed his options. Should he eliminate this smirking puppet immediately or let him continue?
In truth, Stark's disruptive activities served Jason's interests. Without the demon realm invasion, without Obadiah's betrayal, without Mephisto's assault, he wouldn't have rapidly gained his current influence and status.
American chaos meant work for the Avengers. Work meant legitimate reasons to request funding and resources. Chaos wasn't inherently problematic.
The critical question was: how much chaos was manageable? What if the scenario escalated into season three of Earth's apocalypse? Traditional warfare Jason could handle, but nuclear conflict would trigger Earth's reset.
Even if he survived, did he really want to experience "Alone as God in Marvel's Doomsday"? Without the alluring women making it worthwhile, what was the point?
Unless... he could advance his power significantly and prevent nuclear warfare, then he could continue this game with Stark indefinitely.
Jason's eyes narrowed as he considered the nuclear device stored in his [Absolute Zero Dimension] and the [Beast Horn] he'd acquired long ago.
Could his plan to assault hell be accelerated? Perhaps he could gain several power tiers instantly!
But caution demanded notifying the Ancient One first, ensuring Earth's magical defenses were properly reinforced. If demons broke through, let her handle the containment.
As for Stark, hmph—the Avengers would develop eight contingency plans against him. Any signs of trouble meant immediate termination!
After Jason departed, Stark glared at Pepper, called for his bodyguard Happy, and left abruptly.
Stark Industries Building, top floor.
Once inside, Stark commanded Jarvis to secure all access points and draw the heavy curtains.
Speaking calmly, Stark ordered: "Jarvis, activate... the Babel Project!"
Instantly, blue illumination filled the room as a massive holographic display materialized before him.
It featured photographs and detailed profiles for each Avenger.
These dossiers contained comprehensive data including abilities, personalities, preferences, and life histories for all Avenger members.
Most notably, beneath each profile were one to three methodologies for elimination! Using whatever means necessary!
For instance, with Cyclops, since his offensive power was formidable but limited, one could employ ambush tactics with multiple attackers. His average physique and lack of defensive capabilities made him vulnerable to standard ammunition. His moral compass and affection for fellow mutants could be weaponized through threats against mutant children. His deepest connection was to Jean Grey, perfect for psychological warfare or tactical diversion...
Regarding Wolverine, his physical strength, speed, and combat abilities were comparatively modest, but his adamantium claws and regenerative abilities made him nearly invincible. While conventional weapons could incapacitate him temporarily, permanent neutralization required creative solutions. Special ultra-strength sedatives could render him unconscious for 2-4 minutes, sufficient for specialized restraint application. Considering his immortality, options included disposal in molten metal, liquid nitrogen, or the vacuum of space... Alternatively, a continuous tissue removal system that, while unable to destroy his adamantium skeleton, would immediately eliminate any regenerated tissue!
Among all these targets, Jason held the undisputed top position.
Abilities: Superhuman physique, master marksmanship, expert combat skills, thunder manipulation, pyrokinesis, flight...
Personality: Just, Kind, Courageous...
Interests: Wealth, Women...
Background: First appeared as a priest at Hopewell Sanctuary. Asian origins, investigation yielded no results. Subsequent events were documented...
Stark examined the massive display before him, satisfaction evident in his expression.
This represented countless hours of careful planning.
On the display, certain data continued updating—Jarvis constantly gathered external information, carefully analyzed it, and integrated it into the database.
This meant anti-Avenger protocols were continuously evolving. More time and information made these plans increasingly effective.
However, noticing the conspicuous absence of any assassination protocols in Jason's file, Stark frowned.
"Jarvis, what's the issue? Why isn't there a Jason protocol?"
Jarvis's mechanical voice responded: "Based on data compilation, the subject changes extremely rapidly, consistently developing new capabilities while existing ones evolve continuously. Due to the subject's unique nature and rapidly outdated information, developing efficient, targeted plans remains impossible!"
Stark considered this for a moment: "What about behavioral or psychological approaches?"
Jarvis replied: "Eight calculated methods exist, all highly discouraged with poor success probability!"
Stark glanced at the recommendations and immediately became irritated.
The first suggestion read: Psychological Manipulation - Subject demonstrates potential romantic interest in Pepper Potts, consideration should be given to utilizing...
"JARVIS, NOOOOO!"
"My apologies, Sir, I fail to comprehend your objection."
"Remove Pepper entirely from this damned plan!"
"Acknowledged, Sir."
Stark had no interest in reviewing the remaining protocols. He frowned as an alternative strategy formed in his mind.
If he couldn't deal with Jason directly, why not let others do it for him? Surely there were many who despised him viciously?
He could...
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