Inside a hidden safe house somewhere in New York, thick bulletproof glass isolated all sounds from the outside.
Alexander Pierce stood before a holographic round table, and on the surrounding screens, several blurred figures appeared—their faces deliberately distorted by data streams, and their voices electronically processed, but the sinister aura could not be concealed.
"The appearance of the Arbitrators has disrupted our plans," one hoarse voice began, "They not only prevented the Abomination's rampage but also completely exposed General Ross's Super Soldier program to the public."
Pierce's fingers tapped lightly on the tabletop, his gaze deep: "Director Fury has started to suspect. He retrieved the encrypted footage from the laboratory. Although there's no direct evidence pointing to us yet, if this continues, the risk will only grow."
"That Asian—Chen Tian," another low voice said, "His data is almost blank. S.H.I.E.L.D.'s database has no record of him, as if he appeared out of thin air."
"And that white-haired girl," a third figure added, "Her combat data far exceeded expectations; she might be the strongest among the Arbitrators."
Pierce sneered, "So, you're afraid?"
A brief silence fell over the room.
"We are not afraid," the first voice slowly said, "We are merely assessing the risk. The Arbitrators' appearance has forced many of our plans to temporarily halt. If Director Fury convinces the World Security Council, all our preparations will face immense obstacles."
Pierce's gaze swept across each screen, a cold curve forming on his lips: "Then let them be preoccupied."
"You mean?"
"Provoke internal division." Pierce's voice was like a viper's hiss, "Tony Stark is arrogant and conceited, Natasha Romanoff is extremely vigilant, Bruce Banner is emotionally unstable, and that Chen Tian… he seems particularly sensitive about certain things."
"You want to dismantle them from within?"
"Not entirely." Pierce shook his head slightly, "We need a more subtle chess piece—Captain America."
The figures on the screen shifted slightly, seemingly surprised by the suggestion.
"Rogers?"
"Exactly." Pierce smiled, "Director Fury's previous Avengers initiative was to make Rogers the leader. Tony rejected the Avengers and instead established the Arbitrators. If we convince Director Fury to make Rogers the leader of the Arbitrators, using his prestige and charisma, Stark will definitely clash with Rogers. After all, their personalities are two extremes, so do you think Stark would let Rogers become the leader of the Arbitrators?"
"Stark won't accept."
"Of course not." Pierce's voice was playful, "Their personalities are destined to make it difficult for them to see eye to eye. Once they work together, perhaps there won't be an immediate conflict, but."
"Then what?"
"Then our 'Winter Soldier' needs to make an appearance." Pierce's finger traced a cold line on the tabletop, "Let Rogers recognize his Old Friend, let Stark question Rogers's stance, and let the Arbitrators destroy each other in chaos."
The figures on the screen were silent for a moment, then came a low sound of approval: "This is more effective than direct confrontation."
Pierce smiled slightly, took a data chip from his pocket, and placed it gently on the table: "The Winter Soldier is ready."
The temperature in the room seemed to drop sharply.
"You're going to use him now?"
"If necessary, yes." Pierce's voice was frighteningly calm, "But before that, we need to get Rogers to join the Arbitrators, as Director Fury's 'goodwill mediation'."
"Director Fury will agree?"
"He will." Pierce sneered, "He is more worried about these uncontrollable Super Heroes than we are, and I will make him believe that this is the best way to control the Arbitrators."
"Everyone has a weakness," Pierce said softly, "Stark's pride, Rogers's sense of justice, Chen Tian's unknown nature… and what we need to do is find it, and then give it a gentle push."
The figures on the screen gradually faded, leaving only a final whisper:
"Hail HYDRA."
Darkness once again enveloped the room, with only the data chip's indicator light faintly blinking, like a viper's pupil, silently watching the approaching storm.
— — — —
One week after the Battle of Harlem.
Malibu Coast.
Morning light pierced through the mist, falling upon the silver colossal tower of the Arbitrators' headquarters, shimmering with a cold metallic luster in the morning sun. Nanobots still flowed across the building's surface; their faint hum was masked by the high-altitude wind, leaving only a near-sacred tranquility.
Chen Tian sat cross-legged on the rooftop, loosely dressed in a pajama set with a grinning Patrick Star design. Tony had given him this pajama set, saying it matched his SpongeBob pajamas and could prove their friendship.
Speaking of which, Ethan, yes, the Ethan who hadn't appeared for a long time, had previously joined Stark Industries and successfully became the head of Stark Industries' medical technology research and development department.
However, now Tony had also "snatched" him from Pepper, citing that "the Arbitrators need an outstanding Doctor and logistics expert." He now resides on the 88th floor of the Arbitrator Tower.
(The top floor belongs to Tony, the floor below it to Chen Tian. Tony's floor is typically used for meetings and parties; for everyday living, he still prefers the Malibu Villa because Pepper likes it there.)
The sea breeze gently rustled Chen Tian's black hair. He slowly opened his eyes and sighed.
"Still no drops…" he muttered, scratching his hair in frustration, "Ever since I got the ability of Gojo Satoru, has this broken summon system drained all my luck?"
2B's lips curved slightly upwards. She gently helped Chen Tian up, "Master almost dismantled Mr. Stark's new yacht last time when he didn't summon anything for fifty-seven consecutive days."
Chen Tian pouted, "My luck has always been bad, 2B. Do you think I should go to Ancient One again…?" He suddenly stopped, because 2B's pupils were flickering with unusual data streams.
"Master," 2B leaned close to Chen Tian's ear, "Mr. Stark is currently hosting four visitors in the top-floor reception room." Her fingertip traced a holographic projection in the air, and the surveillance footage showed Tony holding a martini, facing—
"Director Fury, Captain America, Agent Hill, and…" Chen Tian's gaze fell on the last figure, "Alexander Pierce…"
Chen Tian's gaze lingered on Pierce's image for a moment, and a meaningful smile slowly formed on his lips. "It seems HYDRA can't sit still anymore…" he murmured to himself, his fingers unconsciously stroking his chin.
The data stream in 2B's pupils flickered faster: "Master, they are discussing the demand for the Arbitrators to accept World Security Council control. Pierce suggested that if the Arbitrators do not accept the World Security Council's control, Captain America must join the Arbitrators to 'ensure the team complies with international norms'."
Chen Tian almost laughed out loud at the words: "Ha! Let Rogers join? That's a nasty move."
Just then, Tony's exaggerated voice suddenly came through the communicator: "—Everyone, allow me to correct you. The Arbitrators now have two leaders! One is me, Tony Stark, and the other is…" He deliberately drew out the words, "Chen Tian! Chen, stop hiding, come down and meet our 'distinguished guests'!"
Chen Tian raised an eyebrow and shrugged helplessly at 2B: "It seems our little Tony is in trouble." 2B tilted her head, her silver hair swaying slightly: "Master, do you need me to accompany you?"
"No, you help me contact Ancient One and ask if there will be any impact if we expose 'S.H.I.E.L.D.' prematurely." Chen Tian looked at his pajamas, the smiling face of Patrick Star on his chest looking particularly comical, "I'll go meet those important figures who want to find us 'new bosses'."
Chen Tian walked into the elevator. From the elevator's ceiling, a dark gray hooded hoodie and slim-fit jeans were lowered by a robotic arm. Chen Tian put them on, changing out of the ridiculous Patrick Star pajamas.
2B's projection appeared beside him: "Master, Sorcerer Ancient One replied—'The timeline is stable enough, what should come will always come'."
"Ha, that old fox is still so cryptic." Chen Tian pouted.
The elevator descended rapidly. Through the glass exterior wall, the entire morning view of Malibu Coast could be seen. When the elevator stopped at the top floor, Chen Tian walked out lazily with his hands in his pockets.
The reception room door slid open automatically, and as soon as he stepped in, he heard Tony's characteristic exaggerated tone:
"—So your Avengers Initiative is to find a ninety-year-old Old Ice Pop to be a babysitter? Come on, Nick, these days even kindergarten teachers need to be certified!"
Chen Tian couldn't help but laugh out loud, immediately attracting everyone's attention. Director Fury's single eye narrowed slightly, Pierce maintained a politician's smile, and Captain America, Steve Rogers, frowned.
"Sorry to interrupt, everyone." Chen Tian leisurely walked over to Tony, casually grabbing a cup of coffee from a serving robot. "Did I miss something exciting? Like… the World Security Council wanting to find us a guardian?"
Tony exaggeratedly slung an arm around Chen Tian's shoulder: "Look! Our other leader is here!" He turned to Pierce, "Allow me to introduce Chen Tian, co-founder of the Arbitrators, and—" He lowered his voice, "—the only guy who can tolerate me partying for three days and three nights."
Pierce smiled and extended his hand: "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Chen. Your… special abilities have left a deep impression on us."
Chen Tian didn't immediately shake his hand. Instead, he took a sip of coffee first, then lazily shook it: "Thanks, but I guess you didn't come all this way just to praise me?"
Director Fury snorted: "Let's be direct. The Arbitrators must accept supervision. Either sign the agreement and accept the World Security Council's oversight, or—"
"—Or let Captain America join you." Pierce gently took over, "As… a bridge between the international community and super-powered individuals."
The reception room suddenly fell silent. Chen Tian and Tony exchanged a look, the latter throwing his hands up in an exaggerated gesture: "Wow, that suggestion is really… touchingly old-fashioned."
Steve finally spoke, his voice steady: "Mr. Stark, this isn't a joke. Your reckless fighting and arrogant personality can easily affect innocent people."
Tony's brows instantly furrowed, and a sarcastic smirk curled his lips: "Wow, a moral lecture from the last century—"
He made an exaggerated 'stop' gesture, "Allow me to interrupt, Captain Rogers. Are you about to start that classic 'When I was in World War II' speech? Do you need me to project a hologram as a backdrop?"
A flicker of displeasure crossed Steve's blue eyes, but his voice remained steady: "Stark, this isn't a joke. Your father, Howard, back then—"
"Don't you dare mention my father!" Tony suddenly roared, his martini glass smashing 'clink' on the marble floor. Amber liquid splashed onto Steve's gleaming military boots. "What right do you have to judge me by his antiquated moral standards? Howard Stark spent his entire life unable to replicate your serum, do you know why?"
He suddenly leaned close to Steve, a faint nanite glow already appearing on his wrist, "Because he was too obsessed with the myth of Captain America!"
The air in the reception room instantly froze. Hill's hand was already on her sidearm, and a hint of triumphant satisfaction flashed in Pierce's eyes. Chen Tian subtly moved half a step closer to Tony, one of his eyes already transforming into the Eye of the Azure Sky.
Steve took a deep breath: "Tony, I understand your emotions—"
"No, you don't understand." Tony scoffed, stepping back, then suddenly switched to an exaggerated theatrical tone, "Let our Captain America tell everyone how he crashed a plane full of nuclear bombs into the ice in 1945—what a heroic self-sacrifice!"
He violently tore open his shirt collar, revealing the reactor scar on his chest, "Do you know what this is? Modern self-sacrifice! Except I didn't freeze myself into an Old Ice Pop; I built a suit of armor and continued to save the World!"
Pierce interjected at the opportune moment: "Gentlemen, our agenda today is—"
Just as the tension in the reception room was thick, Chen Tian suddenly let out a light cough. This subtle action was like pressing a pause button, and everyone's gaze involuntarily turned to him.
Tony's brewing anger was interrupted by the cough. He turned to look at Chen Tian, the rage in his eyes gradually replaced by confusion. Chen Tian met his gaze, and in those azure blue eyes, a certain unspoken understanding familiar to Tony flickered—the kind of trust only they, as close friends, shared.
"Tony," Chen Tian's voice was soft, "Let me handle this."
Tony opened his mouth to retort, but seeing the certainty in Chen Tian's eyes, his shoulders relaxed slightly. He pouted, reluctantly leaning back into the sofa, but his gaze remained alert, sweeping across the four people opposite him.
Chen Tian turned to Director Fury and Pierce, a faint smile playing on his lips: "Since you're all so concerned about the Arbitrators' 'compliance,' then fine—" He paused, his gaze lingering meaningfully on Pierce's face for a second, "We welcome Captain Rogers to join us."
The reception room instantly became so quiet you could hear a pin drop.
Tony suddenly sat upright: "Wait, are you serious?" But the questioning tone had lost its previous belligerence, instead carrying a hint of seeking confirmation.
Chen Tian didn't answer directly, only nodding gently to Tony. This simple gesture seemed to convey some information that only they understood. Tony's furrowed brows gradually relaxed. Although his expression was still displeased, he no longer objected.
Director Fury's single eye narrowed slightly, clearly not expecting Chen Tian to agree so readily, nor Tony to accept so easily. Pierce's smile deepened. He nodded slightly: "A wise decision, Mr. Chen."
Steve's expression was somewhat complex. He looked at Chen Tian: "Thank you for your trust, but I need to clarify one thing—if I join, what will my responsibilities be?"
Chen Tian shrugged: "The same as now: combating threats, protecting the innocent. It's just that…" He paused, the smile on his lips deepening, "You'll be acting with us, not remotely controlled by S.H.I.E.L.D. or the World Security Council."
Pierce frowned slightly: "This probably doesn't comply with—"
"—Doesn't comply with your expectations?" Chen Tian directly interrupted him, his gaze suddenly sharp, "Mr. Pierce, Captain Rogers joining the Arbitrators does not mean the Arbitrators will accept orders from any external force. On this point, there's no room for discussion."
His tone remained calm, but the temperature in the reception room seemed to drop abruptly.
Director Fury stared at Chen Tian for a few seconds, then suddenly sneered: "Interesting. Stark, your 'partner' is a much better negotiator than you."
Tony rolled his eyes: "That's because he hasn't had a bunch of bureaucrats pointing fingers at him saying 'your dad's failure'." Although his words were sharp, his body language had relaxed. He even casually picked up the coffee on the table and took a sip.
Steve took a deep breath, looking at Chen Tian: "If this is your decision, I am willing to try to cooperate."
Chen Tian nodded, then suddenly flashed a brilliant smile: "Welcome aboard, Captain." He turned to Pierce, his smile unchanged, but his eyes were as cold as blades: "As for the members of the World Security Council… are you satisfied now?"
Pierce maintained his perfect politician's smile: "Of course, this is a very good start."
But Chen Tian no longer looked at him, instead patting Tony's shoulder: "Let's go, genius, we need to arrange a room for our new teammate."
Tony stood up, and as he passed Pierce, he lowered his voice and dropped a line: "Tell those old men that the Arbitrators are not their toys."
Pierce's expression remained unchanged, merely watching the two leave. After the reception room door closed, Agent Hill quietly asked: "Officer, you're just letting them…"
Director Fury raised a hand to stop her, a thoughtful glint in his single eye: "Observe first."
Pierce, meanwhile, lowered his head slightly, concealing the fleeting coldness in his eyes.
The plan had just begun.
Tony grabbed Chen Tian's hoodie hood and dragged him into the elevator. As soon as the metal doors closed, he threw an arm around Chen Tian's neck, his nanite armor instantly covering his right arm: "You'd better explain why you suddenly agreed to let that Old Ice Pop join?"
Chen Tian's eyes rolled as he was choked, but he laughed like a child who had pulled off a prank: "Cough, cough… let go… your reaction is even bigger than I thought…"
Tony released his grip, but his faceplate was still open, his palm repulsor glowing with a faint blue light: "Three seconds."
"Alright, alright," Chen Tian rubbed his neck and straightened up, then suddenly lowered his voice, "Remember those encrypted files 2B hacked from the S.H.I.E.L.D. database last week?"
Tony narrowed his eyes: "Those traces of HYDRA infiltration?"
Chen Tian chuckled, not answering Tony's question, but instead counter-questioning: "Tony, do you want to see S.H.I.E.L.D. collapse?"
------------------------
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