The strange, twisting sound of the mystic energy finally ceased once the unconscious Kimiko was bound and secured by the Crimson Bands of Cyttorak. Samuel looked at the bewildered Jessica Jones and the visibly shaken Claw Woman before introducing them.
"Jessica, this is Claw Woman."
"Claw Woman, this is Jessica Jones."
Samuel then gestured toward the restrained Kimiko on the bed. "Her name is Kimiko. She's got some mental trauma to work through, so I'm keeping her under temporary restraint until she can adapt."
He checked the time. "It's getting late. Jessica, go ahead and arrange rooms for Claw Woman and Kimiko. We'll handle the rest in the morning."
Both women had a mountain of questions, but Samuel looked ready to drop. They suppressed their curiosity for the time being, respecting his need for rest. Jessica Jones picked up the bound Kimiko with one hand—surprising Claw Woman with her effortless strength—and led the newcomers out of the master bedroom.
As they explored the second floor, Jessica and Claw Woman began to subtly probe each other for information. It didn't take long for the more experienced Claw Woman to realize something was fundamentally wrong. Jessica Jones had never heard of Homelander. She didn't know The Seven. She had never even heard the name Vought Company.
To Claw Woman, it felt absurd. Vought's influence was global; even in the most remote corners of the world, there were low-tier superheroes under their banner. How could someone in Manhattan—the very site of Vought's headquarters—be so oblivious?
There was only one logical, albeit terrifying, conclusion: this was no longer her world. She had heard of the concept of parallel universes, but she never imagined she would inhabit one. The mysterious man whose name she hadn't even thought to ask had snatched her out of her own reality and brought her here.
It felt like a fever dream.
That night, while some tossed and turned in a state of existential shock, others—like Samuel—slept soundly the moment their heads hit the pillow.
The Next Morning.
Citing the classic excuse of "I'm not lazy, the bed just won't let me go," Samuel stayed under the covers while Friday briefed him on the status of the building during his absence.
He took a moment to inventory his gains. The trip had been incredibly fruitful. He had harvested prime abilities from Homelander, Queen Maeve, Starlight, Stretchy Man, and Kimiko. He had also upgraded his System detection range. He had brought back two loyal subordinates, while Starlight and Queen Maeve remained as potential assets for the future.
Most importantly, he had confirmed the infinite "nesting doll" exploit of the Super Soldier Serum and its 100% compatibility with Compound V. The foundation was laid. It was time for Na Du Tong to take its first real step.
Samuel finally broke free from the "bed demon's" grasp and got to work. The legacy of Na Du Tong Express Logistics Company would begin with a proper recruitment drive.
An hour later, Samuel had finished drafting a notice. Jessica Jones and Claw Woman leaned over his shoulder to read his handiwork:
RECRUITMENT NOTICE
Position 1: Courier
Job Responsibilities:
Perform daily pickup and delivery operations according to company standard operating procedures.
Targeted customer development.
Package express deliveries and fill out waybills accurately.
Position Qualifications:
Familiarity with local terrain.
Hardworking, meticulous, and conscientious.
Obedient to management; bold enough to take on challenges.
Healthy with no bad habits.
China nationals preferred.
Salary & Benefits:
Three-month probation: $800/month.
After Regularization: $2,000/month.
Company provides free uniforms and work equipment.
Selection is based on merit; first come, first served.
Position 2: Clerk
Job Responsibilities:
Manage company business records.
Provide patient and enthusiastic customer support.
Execute tasks assigned by management.
Position Qualifications:
Patient, meticulous, and tech-literate.
Strict adherence to company systems and norms.
Logical thinker with strong communication skills.
Healthy with no bad habits.
China nationals preferred; female preferred.
Salary & Benefits:
Three-month probation: $1,000/month.
After Regularization: $2,200/month.
Jessica Jones skimmed the address and contact details at the bottom. "Sounds professional enough," she said, smacking her lips. "But what exactly are we doing?"
"For now, you're both Couriers. I'll have other arrangements for you later."
In the "Land of the Free," where gunfights were a daily occurrence, Samuel needed muscle. Until his Super Soldier army was fully trained, high-tier Super Humans like Jessica Jones and Claw Woman were necessary to protect the business. He didn't want the New York Branch to fall victim to a "zero-dollar purchase" (looting) spree on its first day.
His plan was to start with rapid delivery services within the immediate district, gradually radiating outward from Manhattan to the rest of New York.
"Claw Woman," Samuel said, turning to her. "Your pay matches Jessica's. During probation, I'll provide food and housing. Once you hit Regularization, your salary will be $3,000 a month."
"I have no objections," she replied.
Though she had once been a celebrity, Claw Woman's fame had faded quickly. She had been on the verge of being unable to pay her rent before Samuel arrived. Three thousand dollars might not seem like a king's ransom, but in this strange new world, it represented stability and safety. She was more than content. After all, back home, the only other way for a washed-up Supe like her to make that kind of money... well, those who know, know.