Marvel: My Eyes Defies Fate.

While Stark's world of metal and innovation turned with quiet urgency, Kurogai remained aboard his cloaked research vessel above the Atlantic, engrossed in overseeing ongoing experiments.

But it wasn't all work.

In between reviewing research updates and making critical design adjustments, Kurogai took the opportunity to spend time with Jean Grey. The closeness between them grew more natural with every moment—she grounded him, and he knew she felt it too. Even amidst secrets and shadows, their connection offered rare clarity.

Meanwhile, back in Malibu, Tony Stark had shifted his focus. The weapon Kurogai had left behind—a compact yet impossibly advanced energy beam rifle—remained untouched on the table. Despite his scientific curiosity, Stark refused to examine it further. Until he fully understood who Kurogai really was, the weapon might as well have been a Trojan horse.

"Mr. Stark," JARVIS's voice chimed in, breaking the silence. "I've completed the initial analysis of our mystery guest."

Stark set his drink down. "Finally. Let's hear it."

"His name is Kurogai Alexander Blackwood," JARVIS began. "But he's also referred to by an alias—The Eyed One. Based on available S.H.I.E.L.D. data, he grew up in a classified orphanage program. At some point, a covert Hydra operation crossed paths with him... and was eliminated entirely."

(I'm thinking of changing the MC name, it's my fault. Editing and translating Japanese anime made me forget this was supposed to be the MCU, you can vote if you would like a change though)

JARVIS projected the decrypted S.H.I.E.L.D. files across Stark's wall screen. Redacted lines glowed with fresh digital tears, information pieced together with care. Everything S.H.I.E.L.D. had—Tony now had too.

Stark's face darkened as he absorbed the revelations. What started as intrigue had shifted to dread. The man he was dealing with wasn't just a rogue scientist. Kurogai had a violent, untraceable past and the kind of power that made supervillains look like amateurs. Stark's instincts screamed caution.

"JARVIS... what if I gave back the rifle and told him no? What if I refused to help him find Dr. Helen Cho?" Tony asked grimly.

There was a pause.

"Based on probability analysis," JARVIS replied, "it's unlikely to deter him. If he's set on locating Dr. Cho, he'll pursue other routes. You were likely just his most convenient option."

Stark ran a hand through his hair. He hated being maneuvered. But more than that, he hated the idea of putting a friend in danger—especially someone like Helen.

"Alright. Contact her."

Moments later, Helen Cho appeared on Stark's screen, seated in her Seoul lab.

"Tony? What's going on?" she asked, puzzled by the sudden call.

"There's someone looking for you. Name's Kurogai Blackwood—goes by 'The Eyed One.' Claims he's working on advanced genetic research and wants your help."

Helen's brow furrowed. "Kurogai? That's... not a name I've heard before."

"Trust me, he's not your average researcher. He showed up out of nowhere, left me with a piece of tech twenty years ahead of anything I've seen, and then vanished like a ghost. I had JARVIS look into him—he's dangerous. Smart, capable, and possibly lethal."

Helen leaned back, silent for a moment, her scientific curiosity sparking—but laced with visible concern. "What kind of genetic research?"

"He didn't say," Tony replied, "but I didn't want you blindsided. He'll be back soon to ask again. I can patch you in when he does."

"I want to hear him out," Helen said after a pause. "If he's sincere, I need to know what he's trying to accomplish. If he's dangerous, someone like me needs to be aware of what he's building."

Tony nodded. "Then I'll make sure you're on the line when he shows up. Just... stay sharp."

The call ended.

Helen Cho remained cautious. Part of her was tempted—genetic research at that scale could change the future. But knowing what kind of person Kurogai might be, she couldn't take the situation lightly. Her decision would depend entirely on what he revealed.

---

As day faded into night, the quiet hum of energy returned to Stark's villa. A spatial ripple disturbed the air, shimmering into focus, and Kurogai stepped once again into Tony's living room.

"You're finally here," Stark said, standing from the couch. "Didn't go anywhere today. Figured I should wait for you in person."

Kurogai moved with composed elegance, settling into a seat without invitation. "Then I trust you've come to a decision."

His tone was polite, but there was a pressure beneath the surface. Stark could feel it. He knew Kurogai could have forced the outcome—he sensed that power in him. Yet the man had waited. That alone said something.

"I've contacted Dr. Cho. She's willing to speak with you directly," Stark replied evenly.

Kurogai offered a slight nod. He could have used Geass to command Stark into agreement, but that would have been wasteful. Stark had value beyond just this moment. For now, trust—even if limited—was more strategic.

"I'll speak to her," Kurogai said, his voice smooth but unwavering. "Let her decide for herself."

Stark didn't respond immediately. He watched the man across from him carefully, realizing that this meeting wasn't the end—it was the beginning of something far bigger. And something told him that Kurogai wasn't done changing the world. Not even close.

---

Vote w Power stones.