Marvel: Alchemist

Chapter 39: Titans of Tomorrow

I stood at the heart of what would soon be the World Heroes Association Tower, the most ambitious structure mankind had ever conceived. Construction crews, engineers, and alchemists worked in perfect synchronization, guided by my design. The tower would be more than just a headquarters—it would be a beacon, a monument to the new era we were forging. At over 3,000 feet tall, it would dwarf every other skyscraper, a testament to our power and vision.

But before its completion, I had more pressing matters to attend to.

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The Monster Within

Bruce Banner was a hunted man. The military, S.H.I.E.L.D., and shadowy forces all wanted him under their control, but they failed to understand one simple truth—you cannot control the Hulk. You can only guide him.

Tracking him wasn't easy, but I had resources the government lacked. When the reports of a green behemoth tearing through the streets of Harlem reached my desk, I knew this was my moment. The battle between the creature and the Abomination was brutal, leveling city blocks before the beast disappeared into the night. But I had seen enough. I knew where he would run to.

I arrived in Rio de Janeiro two days later, dressed simply, no guards, no entourage. Banner had holed himself up in a favela, keeping his head down, but paranoia and desperation were poor disguises. I found him at a run-down medical clinic, treating a fevered child with makeshift supplies. Despite everything, he was still a healer at heart.

"Dr. Banner," I said calmly as I stepped into the dimly lit room.

His body tensed immediately, his eyes flicking toward the door. "I don't want any trouble."

I raised a hand. "I'm not here to take you in. I'm here to offer you a future."

That got his attention. He studied me, searching for deception. "Who are you?"

"My name is Edward Lin. I lead an organization that protects people like you."

He gave a dry chuckle. "People like me? I don't think you understand what you're dealing with."

I stepped closer, lowering my voice. "I understand more than you think. You are not a monster, Bruce. The world fears what it doesn't control. That's why they hunt you. But what if you had a place where you weren't hunted? Where you could train, learn to master your power instead of running from it?"

His fists clenched involuntarily. "And if I say no?"

I met his gaze. "Then you'll keep running. You'll never stop looking over your shoulder. But if you come with me, I can give you sanctuary. I can help you take control of the Hulk."

His hesitation was brief, but it was there. The exhaustion in his eyes spoke volumes. "And if I lose control?"

I smiled. "Then we'll be there to stop you."

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The Billionaire, The Genius… The Consultant

Bruce wasn't the only one I had my eyes on. The world was buzzing about Tony Stark's return. His escape from Afghanistan, his reveal as Iron Man, and his sudden shift from weapons manufacturing to clean energy had turned the world on its head. The man was brilliant, unpredictable, and arrogant—but he was also the future.

I arranged a meeting at his Malibu mansion.

"You know, most people call ahead," Stark said as he poured himself a drink.

I leaned back, unbothered. "Most people don't have something worth your time."

He smirked. "Let me guess. You want Iron Man to join your little hero club?"

I didn't answer immediately. Instead, I watched him sip his drink, waiting for the inevitable second comment.

He sighed. "Look, I get it. You've got this whole world-saving operation going on, and you want the best. But I'm a one-man show."

I nodded. "I figured as much. But let me make a counteroffer. You don't have to join. Be a consultant. Advise, provide tech support. No obligations, no orders. Just your expertise."

That caught his interest. "So, I don't have to wear a badge or take orders?"

"Not unless you want to."

He swirled his drink, thinking. "I'll consider it. But don't expect me to play by your rules."

I smirked. "I wouldn't expect anything less."

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A Tower That Touches the Sky

Weeks later, I stood once more before the rising structure of the WHA Tower. It was no longer a dream but a reality. The largest skyscraper on the planet, a fortress for heroes, a command center for the future.

Bruce had joined us, secluded in a specially designed training facility. He was learning control, understanding his rage rather than suppressing it. And in time, he would become something greater than a wandering fugitive.

Tony remained on the fringes, offering input here and there, but keeping his distance. That was fine. His time would come.

As I gazed at the towering structure before me, I knew one thing for certain—this was only the beginning.

The world was changing, and I would make sure it changed on my terms.