Rogue Replacement: A Marvel Story

Chapter 66

Arc 5 - Ch 19: Manipulations

Date: Saturday, June 4, 2011.

Location: Greyburn College, Harlem, New York

The throbbing beat of the helicopter's rotors sliced through the humid summer air as General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross led the way up the loading ramp, his craggy features set in a scowl. His daughter Betty's hair blew wildly around her face as she followed close behind.

A pair of soldiers flanked the stretcher bearing a strapped-down Bruce Banner.

The helicopter climbed skyward, leaving Greyburn College dwindling below.

Bruce Banner and his stretcher simply vanished.

One moment he was there, and the next the space lay bare. Shock rippled through the passengers, soldiers exchanging bewildered looks while Betty frantically scanned the cabin. General Ross's expression shifted from surprise to anger to frustration.

Before anyone could react further, the radio on Ross' belt crackled to life. "General, we have a situation," a tense voice reported. "The Hulk is loose."

Ross snatched up the handset without hesitation, barking orders in the tone of command that was second nature to him. "On my way. Pilot, return to the campus immediately."

At Ross’ command, the pilot banked the helicopter into a sharp one-eighty, torquing back toward Greyburn and the rapidly unfolding crisis below.

The situation in New York City was rapidly spiraling out of control. From the confines of the military helicopter, General Thaddeus "Thunderbolt" Ross watched the live video feed with grave focus, tracking the rampaging monster's every move. The images streamed directly from one of his armored Humvees patrolling the area, offering Ross a real-time view of the chaos unfolding below. On the screens before him, the enormous creature was smashing through buildings and vehicles leaving crushed metal and rubble in its wake. Ross listened intently to the continuous radio reports from his troops on the ground, who desperately tried to contain the situation even as they were forced into hasty retreats from the creature's overwhelming strength. The tension inside the helicopter cabin was palpable as everyone aboard witnessed the horrific destruction.

The crisis reached a fever pitch when the monstrous being seized a yellow taxi cab overhead with both hands, clearly intending to use it as a bludgeon against the retreating Humvee. The video feed zoomed in on the creature's face, allowing Ross to finally see it in nightmarish detail. In that instant, a shock of recognition jolted through the general.

This was not the Hulk as he had expected, but Emil Blonsky, hideously transformed into an aberration of his former self.

Ross's rugged expression shifted from stern command to dismayed surprise as the realization sank in. "My God," he uttered under his breath. "What have you done to yourself, Blonsky?"

The soldier Ross had recruited to become the next super soldier had been transformed into an Abomination. The general grappled with the sobering reality that the situation had spiraled far beyond his expectations or control. His attention remained riveted to the bank of monitors, bearing witness to Blonsky poised to crush the soldiers beneath the taxi he wielded as a weapon. He refused to look away as the lives of several men under his command were about to be killed as a consequence of his actions.

Just as utter disaster seemed inevitable, a new figure appeared within the video feed. Clad entirely in a black skintight outfit with a distinctive half-fox mask obscuring his face, this mysterious individual confronted Blonsky with astonishing bravery.

The newcomer extended both arms upward desperately attempting to halt the taxi's descent upon the helpless soldiers.

Caught off guard by this unexpected intervention, Ross instinctively reached for the two-way radio at his belt. "Identify that man, now!" he barked, his gravelly voice tinged with surprise and urgency.

A soldier observing the camera feed from just behind Ross responded with a distinctive New York accent. "That's Mirage, sir. He's one of the local heroes."

"Local heroes?" Ross repeated to himself in a hushed whisper, his craggy brow furrowing in perplexion. Then he recalled the Senate hearing earlier in the week. He'd been forced to answer some uncomfortable questions afterward, and they all stemmed from the testimony of a so-called 'hero'.

As he continued to observe the monitor, he witnessed Mirage struggling valiantly against Blonsky's overwhelming physical might. Despite Mirage's evident superhuman strength, he was slowly being overpowered by the monstrous Blonsky, forced down onto one knee by the strain of holding up the taxi as this amalgamation of supersoldier and Hulk, this Abomination, forced it down on him.

The stand-off reached a sudden turning point when Blonsky unexpectedly released his grip on the taxi, leaving its full weight in Mirage's hands. Then Blonsky leaped away, vanishing from the camera's view. Now bearing the taxi's weight alone, Mirage carefully lowered the vehicle to the ground. His attention turned to the soldiers who had been Blonsky's targets. In a commanding yet calm tone, Mirage instructed the soldiers to evacuate. They retreated from the vicinity, leaving the situation in Mirage's hands.

Having secured the soldiers' and civilians' safety, Mirage prepared to confront Blonsky again. With determined strides, he left the camera's view, disappearing from Ross's sight.

General Ross was left reeling. Extraordinary individuals wielding unbelievable powers had emerged, operating entirely outside the bounds of traditional authority. There was Bruce Banner, transformed into an unstoppable force of brute strength when enraged. Then there was the illusionist Mirage, able to confuse the senses and twist perception to his will. And Tony Stark, an egocentric playboy, now soaring through the skies encased in a mechanical suit that made the military's weapons seem antiquated in comparison. How could the government hope to contain these maverick powerhouses? Ross had tried to fight fire with fire by creating a new super soldier in Blonsky. But that had proved disastrous. Now there was another loose cannon for Ross to contend with. As the general brooded, the full weight of this new landscape settled upon his shoulders. He saw how utterly unprepared the establishment was for this kind of adversary. They obeyed no rules and bowed to no authority. And their capabilities far exceeded anything the military could bring to bear. Ross stared grimly at the screen, contemplating his next move. Recruiting enhanced individuals to the government's cause seemed the only viable path forward. But could such powerful beings ever truly be controlled?

The helicopter's landing struts had barely touched the ground when General Ross's gaze fixed upon a nightmarish sight. With an earth-shaking leap, the Abomination returned to wreak havoc on the Greyburn College campus once more, grasping a compact car high overhead.

Without hesitation, General Ross seized the helicopter's radio. "All units, open fire!" he bellowed.

Answering the general's command, a relentless hail of bullets engulfed the Abomination. Just as the creature released its metallic projectile, the cacophony of gunfire filled the air. However, the Abomination's armored hide shrugged off the barrage, impervious to the piercing rounds.

Agent Natasha Romanoff shouted over the gunfire, "Hold your fire!" Her sharp voice pierced the chaos, bringing an immediate cease to the barrage. The smoking barrels fell silent as the soldiers awaited new orders.

General Ross grabbed his radio to countermand Agent Romanoff's order. However, he paused, watching as she took a bold, risky approach towards the monstrous Abomination. He chose to give Romanoff's strategy a chance.

Keying his radio, he issued a new command. "All units, hold fire," Ross instructed, acknowledging the SHIELD agent's order. The general observed intently as Natasha spoke to the hulking beast. She was careful and deliberate in her approach, her words seeming to have a calming effect on the creature. Gradually, the monstrous form of the Abomination began to shrink before their eyes.

As the beast's size reduced, it revealed not Emil Blonsky as Ross had expected, but a brown-skinned man wearing only the tattered remnants of black spandex pants. Ross deduced the man's identity after the astonishing transformation and from the costume remnants. This must be the local hero, Mirage, whom Ross had seen on the monitor.

With the immediate threat of the Abomination apparently under control, General Ross made his way towards Mirage and Romanoff. As he neared them, Ross's mind filled with questions about the events he had just witnessed.

Closing in on the pair, Ross's demeanor was one of authority and urgency. Without preamble, he directed his question squarely at Agent Romanoff. "Where's Bruce Banner?"

Mirage interjected, "Way to ruin the moment." Though his comment was light-hearted, General Ross was in no mood for levity after the harrowing events. Disregarding Mirage's quip, Ross fixed his steely gaze on Natasha, his eyes boring into hers as he awaited her response.

Matching Ross's intensity with her own unflappable poise, Natasha replied smoothly, "Last I checked, he was in a taxi heading downtown." Her response was as equally cheeky as Mirage's and did little to alleviate the general's growing frustration.

"Ha ha, very funny," Ross retorted, his voice dripping with dry sarcasm. His tone then turned deadly serious as he issued a stern warning to the unperturbed agent, "If you don't turn over Banner, we're going to have a problem."

Unfazed by the threat, Natasha responded coolly, "I don't have Banner. If you have a problem, take it up with my boss."

Her curt response made it clear that any issues arising from Banner's absence were beyond her pay grade. Natasha's defiance forced a tense standoff between military authority and the autonomy of SHIELD operations creating a situation not easily or quickly resolved.

Turning his attention to the costumed figure beside her, General Ross addressed him directly, his eyes narrowing. "You must be the Mirage. I have half a mind to arrest you for interfering in a military operation."

Natasha, quick to defend her ally, interjected sharply, "Do you want to go down that road, arresting another division's agent? And one who was assisting you? You think going after us for losing Banner would cause a shitstorm, it's got nothing on going after a valuable active agent in the field."

The defiant Mirage chimed in, "You should be thanking me. I saved your soldiers, took down your little experiment, and brought him back for you."

Ross's steely gaze shifted to the car that Tyson had carried back. Inside lay Blonsky, unconscious and transformed back into his human form. Still grappling with the rapidly changing events, Ross asked with a hint of suspicion in his gruff voice, "Is this another trick? Like the one you pulled with Banner in my helicopter?"

"Nope. All real this time. You're welcome," Tyson responded straightforwardly, his casual tone emphasizing the genuineness of his actions.

As General Ross finished his assessment of Blonsky, his piercing eyes shifted back to Tyson. For a brief moment, when Ross met Tyson's mismatched eyes, his own glazed over.

The bustling college campus faded away, replaced by the opulent surroundings of the Oval Office. The sudden shift in his environment left him momentarily stunned, his mind struggling to catch up with what his eyes were seeing. The iconic presidential seal on the plush carpet beneath his feet seemed to mock his confusion. Ross found himself standing before the imposing desk of the President of the United States. The weight of the situation settled on his shoulders as he straightened his posture, years of military discipline kicking in despite his bewilderment. The President sat behind the desk, his presence commanding respect and attention. Ross's eyes were drawn to the man's face, and he found himself staring into a pair of mismatched eyes; one green, one blue. The unusual feature struck a chord of familiarity in Ross's mind, but he couldn't quite place why.

"General Ross," the President's voice was firm and authoritative.

"What did you give Blonsky?" Tyson asked bluntly.

"An early version of the Super Soldier serum that was abandoned in storage," he admitted.

Tyson pressed forward with his interrogation, his mismatched eyes boring into the General with an intensity that broke any resistance. Natasha observed the exchange with a growing sense of unease. This was a side of Tyson she had not seen before. She had already uncovered the truth of Ross's involvement with Blonsky and the experimental serum. But to see Tyson unravel the man so effortlessly was unexpected.

Tyson probed deeper. "How did you get access to the Super Soldier serum?"

"After the death of William Stryker, I was named head of the Weapons Plus program," Ross responded, his eyes unfocused, as if the words were being pulled from him against his will.

Natasha's brow furrowed. This was new information, hinting at the extent of Ross's classified activities. Once again, Tyson had cut to the heart of the matter with surgical precision, extracting intel even she did not possess.

"Is there any more Super Soldier Serum, and where is it kept?" Tyson continued, focused and unrelenting.

"Yes, there's more in storage at Camp Lehigh," Ross admitted tonelessly, too far under Tyson's influence to notice he was spilling secrets.

Tyson frowned, dissatisfied with the intelligence he had gathered. "You should handle Blonsky and make sure he's contained," he directed calmly. "Don't worry about Mirage, forget what he looked like and delete any recordings of his face. Cooperate with any SHIELD agents for the cleanup operation." Ross blinked sluggishly as he processed Tyson's orders.

Natasha looked on with guarded eyes. She had observed the exchange between Ross and Tyson with a complex mix of emotions playing across her features. She remained silent at first, though her look spoke volumes. Seeing Tyson effortlessly extract information and seemingly exert influence over the general troubled her. It revealed an extent of his powers she hadn't fully grasped until now, raising uneasy questions.

Noticing her expression, Tyson sensed Natasha's concern. His interrogation of Ross had demonstrated the true depth of his persuasive abilities.

As the SHIELD agents secured the area, Tyson strode purposefully towards one of the large coolers they were using to transport vials of Banner's irradiated blood. He grabbed the handle and hoisted the heavy container over his shoulder, then made his way to the mangled remains of the black sedan he had carried while in his own transformed state. The vehicle lay crumpled like a crushed aluminum can, its windows shattered and frame warped beyond repair. He reached the trunk and with a snikt, his adamantium claws extended from his fingertips, and he sliced through the trunk's mechanism. It popped open with a groan, revealing the gruesome contents that Tyson sought.

The severed heart of the Abomination.

He'd violently torn the organ from the beast's chest with his claws. He stared at the organ, still oozing vile fluids, a trophy from his hard-won victory over Blonsky's monstrosity. Without hesitation, Tyson grabbed the heart and dropped it into the cooler beside the vials of Banner's blood, sealing both specimens for later study and use. His eyes glinted knowingly as he latched the container shut.

Overseeing the rest of the SHIELD agents handling the aftermath, Natasha and Tyson watched Dr. Sterns, unconscious and bandaged, being carefully loaded onto a stretcher and into a van.

Breaking the silence between them, Natasha turned to Tyson, her voice tinged with unease. "I didn’t know you could do that."

Tyson let out a reluctant, regretful sigh. "I try not to," he admitted, acknowledging the complexity and moral implications of his ability to extract information and influence others.

After a moment, Natasha broached a more personal, vulnerable subject. "Have you ever done that to me?" she asked uncertainly.

"Once," Tyson admitted.

Natasha's reaction was immediate, her features creasing in dismay as she processed this violation of trust. Though Tyson's confession had been straightforward, his discomfort was evident in the tight set of his jaw and the regret that clouded his eyes. She said nothing, but her look of betrayal spoke volumes. Tyson's abilities, while invaluable in the field, had now cast a shadow over their relationship, sowing doubt and raising thorny questions about consent and trust.

In strained silence they continued toward the waiting SHIELD forces, the atmosphere between them now crackling with uncertainty. Upon entering the van, its nondescript interior offering some privacy, Natasha subtly waved away the agent who moved to join them, presumably to stand guard over the secured coolers containing Dr. Banner's blood samples. With a nod, the agent took a seat up front. The back was separated by a wall, leaving Natasha and Tyson alone but for the muffled hum of the engine and the indistinct sounds of activity outside.

Natasha's expression was etched with unease. After a long moment, she broke the tense silence, swallowing hard before asking in a low voice, "When?"

Tyson understood the gravity of her simple question. "Months ago," he confessed heavily, "when you were undercover posing as my teacher. After the basketball game with Peter. I... I influenced you to focus on me and my abilities rather than his." Shame weighed heavily upon him at his admission.

Natasha's mind reeled, transported back to that day on the basketball court. She vividly recalled watching Peter Parker play. And she remembered how he had unexpectedly bested Flash and Tyson. With Tyson's confession laid bare, the realization dawned on her. Peter had exhibited superhuman abilities during that game, abilities she had somehow ignored at the time. Her attention had been diverted from the young man's feats, focused instead on Tyson.

A tumult of emotions roiled within Natasha as understanding took hold. She understood Tyson's motivation in using his powers of influence over her. He had manipulated her focus to protect his friend, to shield Peter's secrets. In the context of safeguarding a comrade, she could almost forgive Tyson's use of his abilities. His desire to guard Peter spoke of loyalty and protectiveness, virtues that Natasha esteemed highly herself. Yet this raised a torrent of other questions, the most pressing being how Tyson had known she might take an interest in Peter's special abilities.

Seeking clarity, she probed further, "If at that point you knew to divert my attention from Parker, you must have already made me. When did you first realize I was watching you?" Her tone held no accusation, only an intent to unravel the timeline.

Tyson bowed his head slightly, knowing the necessity of honesty at this moment. "Pretty much from the start," he admitted. Natasha's eyes widened in disbelief, compelling Tyson to elaborate further. "After I stole all that gold, you showed up at my school posing as a student teacher. But even on that first day of dodgeball, your skills gave you away. Besides, the PE teachers all adore Flash, yet you shut him down immediately. You paid too much attention to me and favored me. No offense, but you're too old to be a student teacher. "

Natasha's expression remained dubious. "That seems a stretch," she remarked.

Tyson met her gaze earnestly. "Have you seen yourself? When I say you're too old to be a student teacher, I mean it's obvious upon looking at you. There's no reason for someone like you to go back to school. You could easily be a model, a trophy wife. There's no world where you're a middle-income, single teacher. You'd have been snatched up in no time. It just doesn't add up."

Natasha considered his words, her features softening slightly as she turned over his logic in her mind. "Flattery won't get you out of this," she replied, steering the conversation back to the matter at hand.

Their discussion, like so many from earlier in their relationship, had become a delicate dance of truths and revelations. Tyson did not reveal how he had used his meta-knowledge to immediately identify Natasha. He had to make his explanation plausible through observational skills and strategic thinking alone.

Natasha added, "I can understand that you were trying to protect your friend, Peter, Spider-Man," acknowledging Tyson's intentions

Tyson, taken aback by her revelation, wore an expression of surprise and blurted out, "You knew?"

Natasha, satisfied at still being able to surprise him, responded, "We were observing you on Thanksgiving."

Tyson's mind raced back to Thanksgiving. He recalled how Peter hadn't come to the door but had instead arrived on the balcony. Tyson hadn't brought it up at the time, careful not to jeopardize Peter's cover. He remembered how, after dinner, Peter had left the suite by jumping off the balcony. Realization dawned on Tyson, and he muttered under his breath, "Well, shit."

"Now that that's in the open. How can I believe you? How do I know you haven’t been manipulating me with your powers this whole time?" she asked, laying bare the fragile foundations of trust upon which their relationship had been built.

Tyson felt the full weight of her gaze upon him, demanding an answer. He chose his next words carefully, knowing they carried consequences far beyond this conversation. "You're right. I can't prove I haven't manipulated you," he began somberly. "My illusions are indistinguishable from reality, so you can't rely on your senses to discern the truth."

"My influence is subtle, fleeting. To sustain it requires constant reinforcement from me. We've spent a lot of time together, but there were gaps; two months between the Green Goblin incident and the House of M opening, then another two before Stark's party. Any manipulation would have faded in between." Tyson explained, hoping to provide some reassurance. He held her gaze, regret etched across his face. "I know how much it took for you to trust me. And I know how betrayed you must feel now. You have every right to doubt me. All I can offer is my word that I've never manipulated your mind. I'm sorry I kept this from you. Your trust means everything to me."

Tyson reached out as if to take her hand, then let his own fallback, uncertain. He had revealed the extent of his powers, but the future remained unwritten. Now it was up to Natasha to decide if she could accept the truth and allow their relationship to move forward, or if this was a betrayal too far.

Natasha's sharp gaze remained fixed on Tyson as she processed his admission. His apology had rung sincere and remorseful as he acknowledged the fragile trust between them that his powers had strained. For her, trust did not blossom easily. Her life had ingrained vigilance and wariness, and Tyson's confession had raked old wounds. His words were an olive branch. He had laid himself bare before her, revealing the extent of his powers and their influence, both intentional and not. It was a vulnerability that left him open, awaiting her judgment.

She sorted through his explanation, weighing it against her knowledge of the man before her. Years of training with SHIELD and her time in the Red Room had honed her skills at reading people and situations, analyzing motives, and seeking truth beneath the facade. This betrayal was not a tactical situation, however; it cut far deeper. Trust, once broken, was not easily restored, especially in their world. Tyson's powers and their implications had raised old ghosts, and she wrestled with what forgiveness would mean in this context. It would not be merely accepting his words and overlooking past actions. To forgive him, she would have to willingly make herself vulnerable, ceding him power and trusting that he would not abuse it. Their relationship would rely on his self-restraint and his promise to never influence her mind without consent. It was a delicate balance requiring utmost integrity. As she deliberated, Natasha realized the choice before her was not simply whether to move past betrayal, but whether to open herself to the possibility of trust once more.

Natasha took a deep breath to steady her nerves. She knew this conversation would set the tone for their relationship going forward. Choosing her words carefully, she began. "I understand that you intended to protect Peter, even if your methods were questionable." She paused, letting her words sink in. Tyson's shoulders tensed almost imperceptibly as he absorbed the gravity of her statement.

"I am guilty of deceiving you when we met, and even after I revealed myself as a SHIELD agent, there were times when I observed you and reported on you, so I'm not beyond reproach myself. I am willing to move past this betrayal, but only under certain conditions." Her voice was firm but not unkind. "Going forward there can be no more secrets between us, no more manipulation. If we are to work together, to be together, trust is non-negotiable." Natasha's eyes flashed with resolve, underscoring her seriousness. "You need to respect my autonomy, Tyson. Your abilities are extraordinary and with them comes expectations. I cannot afford to constantly second guess our interactions, wondering if I'm being influenced against my will."

Her tone softened then, acknowledging the complexity of Tyson's situation. "I know it's not easy having such power and constantly having to restrain yourself. But that is the reality we live in. Our actions have consequences, often far-reaching ones."

Natasha slid closer to Tyson, her voice gentle but unwavering. "I want to believe in you. I've seen glimpses of the man you can be. Brave, loyal, willing to do what's right even when it's hard. That's the Tyson I choose to see and the one I now choose to trust." Natasha's voice mingled with resolve and hope as she concluded, "So let us start again, with honesty and respect forming the foundation between us."

She searched Tyson's face, looking for any sign that he grasped the significance of this second chance she extended to him. His response would reveal whether her trust was misplaced or justified.

Tyson initially hung his head low in reflection. Gradually he began to nod, the subtle movement conveying more than simple agreement. Sensing there might be more beneath the surface, something yet unrevealed, Natasha observed him closely. His acceptance of her terms seemed to carry additional weight and meaning.

As Tyson lifted his head, his eyes betrayed the depth of feeling this moment held for him. He met Natasha's gaze directly, vulnerability tingeing his voice as he asked, "Are you sure?"

"I'm sure. I trust you," Natasha affirmed sincerely. "No secrets between us from now on."

Tyson nodded, accepting both her trust and the chance to start again.

He composed himself before speaking again. "Then there's something I need to show you," he said with such gravity that Natasha knew this moment was a turning point in their relationship.

Tyson rapped his knuckles on the divider separating them from the front of the SHIELD van. Sliding open the small window, he instructed the driver, "Take us to House of M."

The driver's gaze shifted to Natasha, his eyes questioning as he sought her approval. "Ma'am?" he asked respectfully, requiring permission from the highest-ranking agent before altering their course.

Natasha paused, considering Tyson's request. She could sense this was part of the new openness and honesty they had just pledged to one another. Trusting Tyson's judgment and acknowledging the significance, she replied decisively, "Do it."

Her response demonstrated her willingness to support him fully in whatever he needed to share.

Tyson offered the driver a brief word of thanks before closing the small window, turning his full focus back to Natasha. He contemplated how best to convey what needed to be said.

"May I use an illusion to explain?" he asked, seeking her consent for what he was about to do. "I'll have to take you deep into an illusion. It will be more like a psychic link than any illusion I've created previously. What I'm trusting you with are things no one else can know. You'll be able to respond, but it will all be in your mind. You won't be able to speak aloud for the duration of the illusion. Only a psionic projection of your voice will come through. You'll need to place as much trust in me as I'm about to place in you."

Natasha nodded, no stranger to the necessity of secrecy. Tyson gazed deeply into her eyes. She felt lost in the blue. Like sky and ocean blended until she could not discern up from down, and then she saw the green, it was like a grassland below the endless sky.

Suddenly, she was back in the van. It appeared nothing had changed until Tyson projected a vivid image. The illusion depicted a fierce battle above the Bronx between the demon and a fly mutant wearing a distinctive helmet. Tyson studied Natasha to ensure she was following the scene. "Are you familiar with this incident?" he inquired.

The dramatic projection continued to unfold, illustrating the intensity and scale of the clash. Natasha's eyes remained fixed on the illusion as she acknowledged, "It's one of the events SHIELD cataloged and rediscovered when we realized mutants were real," she replied.

Tyson elaborated on the illusory details before them. "This is Magneto. He is a powerful mutant who has hunted me. He can manipulate magnetic fields and control metals," Tyson narrated while pointing out the key figure. He then zoomed in on the false Azazel. "Your records may indicate this is Azazel, a demon or demonic-looking mutant... but it is not," Tyson clarified. As he spoke, he shifted the illusion to reflect the truth. "It is me. At the time, I had temporarily absorbed two additional powers. One from a shapeshifter and one from an exceptionally powerful telepath."

Natasha listened intently as Tyson explained. "Okay, I'm following so far."

Tyson allowed the illusion around them to dissipate. "The fight and everything else isn't important," he stated, directing the narrative to the crucial point. "What was important was that I had temporarily absorbed the powers of one of the world's strongest telepaths. I've also previously absorbed the actual Azazel, who had millennia of knowledge and experience. And you already know about Sabertooth's centuries." Tyson tapped his head. "I have lifetimes upon lifetimes within my head. From this world, and others."

He said cryptically, "And I saw a future."

Once more, Tyson conjured an illusion, this time displaying the scene of Nat sparring with Happy Hogan in the boxing ring from a few days prior. Natasha's eyes flickered with recognition as she took in the scene. "Yeah, that was just the other day," she confirmed.

Tyson shook his head. "This was the first time I saw you... in the vision I had," he revealed, his words suggesting the memories of his past life had been part of something precognitive he had witnessed.

"Think about it," Tyson continued intently, "I was here in New York when this happened." Realization dawned on Natasha's face as she grasped the implications of his statement.

"That's how I recognized you immediately the moment I stepped into the gym class. I knew who you were before we even met."

Natasha sought to understand the full extent of Tyson's extraordinary claims. "You're saying you saw the future."

Tyson shook his head, correcting her statement. "No. I saw 'A' future. A version of events yet to come. Most of what I witnessed in the vision has now come to pass, but some details have shifted and changed."

Natasha looked at him skeptically, not fully convinced. "Like what?" she asked, desiring to comprehend the limits and implications of Tyson's supposed vision.

In response, Tyson conjured another illusion, immersing Natasha in the vivid scene. This time, the illusion depicted the confrontation atop the Queensboro Bridge. "Part of the challenge is I don't know exactly when events will take place, only that they do," Tyson explained, providing context before Natasha witnessed the vision's events.

As Natasha watched raptly, the illusion presented Spider-Man locked in conflict with the Green Goblin. In this version of the clash, the villain simultaneously dropped the red-haired girl Mary Jane and the cable car. Reacting on instinct, Spider-Man dove after Mary Jane to save her, catching her in a breathtaking move. He then swung under the bridge to grab the falling cable car. The scene culminated with the Green Goblin's shocking death, a stark ending to the fraught encounter.

Processing the vivid details, Natasha remarked, "I see, so your interference saved the Goblin's life."

Tyson nodded in confirmation. Then, to underscore the mutability of the future he had foreseen, he shifted the illusion once more. This time, it depicted Kraven the Hunter. "That's not the important part," Tyson said gravely. "Kraven wasn't part of the vision at all."

"Over the months I've come to realize one important fact." He paused before explaining the crucial detail.

"It seems the more I strive to reshape the future glimpsed in my vision, the more adamantly the universe pushes back against my interference," Tyson revealed the frustrating conclusion.

Natasha asked, "You think… the universe… is fighting against you specifically?"

Tyson laughed, "When you say it like that, it makes me sound crazy. But let me show you."

To illustrate this perplexing phenomenon, Tyson conjured another illusion depicting the battle at the Xavier Institute. Natasha watched raptly as soldiers invaded the mansion. This was different than the recordings she'd seen.

Then Tyson showed the version of events after his interference. Before Natasha's eyes, he teleported around the embattled campus, using telekinesis to dismantle and destroy the invading forces. His actions showcased the remarkable extent of his capabilities. However, the scene took a dramatic turn. Tyson's extraordinary powers abruptly evaporated. He was confronted by a cadre of identical psychics, flanked by a mutant wielding writhing tentacles. The odds were overwhelmingly stacked against Tyson now. Natasha watched as this group ultimately captured Tyson. These were the events she'd seen played out in the recordings of the event. His first illusion vividly demonstrated Tyson's point.

His efforts to reshape the events led to unforeseen, formidable complications.

Natasha leaned back, taking a moment to process everything Tyson had revealed. She looked at him intently and asked, "Alright then. What changed today?"

Tyson reflected on the day's events, reluctantly admitting, "Not much changed. I was able to save a few soldiers' lives, and that was the extent of it. Whether or not Banner will be at House of M when we arrive remains to be seen. In the vision I had, he was in the wind."

To further illustrate his point, Tyson conjured another illusion for Natasha's benefit, replaying the scene of Banner being whisked away by helicopter. The vision continued, showing Banner's eventual return and transformation into the Hulk to protect General Ross's daughter from the Abomination. It was this sequence of events, triggered by Banner's anger-fueled metamorphosis, that Tyson's vision had foretold.

Tyson also recreated his confrontation with the Abomination for Natasha. Though his intervention had altered the course of the battle, the outcome remained largely unchanged.

Taking a moment to process everything Tyson had revealed, Natasha studied him intently. "So despite your interference, the result was more or less the same. Because of that similarity, you believe the universe didn't push back and make changes?" she asked.

Tyson nodded in agreement. "That seems to be the case. The less I deviate from the original vision, the smaller the repercussions," he suggested.

Just then, the van rolled to a stop, having reached its destination. Curious about what Tyson had in mind by bringing them here, Natasha asked, "Is the only reason we've come to House of M to check on Banner?"

Tyson grabbed the cooler with Banner's blood and the Abomination's heart. Stepping out of the van, the pair went inside as Tyson explained his reasoning. "House of M shouldn't even exist according to the vision I was given. Neither this place nor I were part of what I saw initially. I never saw myself in the visions, as if I don't or shouldn't exist."

Natasha offered an alternate perspective. "Perhaps you did not see yourself in the visions because, as the one receiving the visions, you existed outside of the events being shown," she suggested.

"I hadn't thought of it that way, but it's as good an explanation as any," Tyson admitted after a moment, appreciating the new angle she had brought to their discussion, and how it had framed his meta-knowledge in a way that made sense to her.

Tyson circled back to Natasha's question, "As for why we're here. Let me first ask, what happened to Ivan Vanko?"

Natasha's response was matter-of-fact. "He detonated himself and all of the Hammer drones in a suicidal explosion." Her account detailed the climactic conclusion of Vanko's vendetta against Tony Stark.

Tyson shook his head, providing a crucial detail. "Minus my intervention, that was what would have happened, according to the vision."

Leading Natasha further down the hall, they stopped in front of a door and entered into the modern laboratory. Two men were fully engrossed in their work within the lab. One was intently focused on a workbench along the far wall, while the other sat surrounded by an array of mechanical components at a computerized workstation.

As they entered the room, Tyson mentioned, "I'm casting an illusion over us so they won't notice our presence." This allowed the pair to observe the men at work without interrupting or alerting them to the visitors in their midst.

Guiding Natasha into the modern laboratory, Tyson brought her attention to the man working at the far workbench. As Natasha drew nearer, she recognized the focused scientist as Ivan Vanko. His appearance was cleaner and more kempt than she recalled, but there was no mistaking the man's identity.

Natasha turned to Tyson, astonishment etched on her face. "Is this real?" she whispered. The presence of Vanko, thought to be deceased, raised alarming questions in Natasha's mind.

"Yes," Tyson confirmed simply. With a subtle hand motion, he cast an illusion that allowed Natasha to witness the divergence of events. The illusion shifted, showing Tony Stark and James Rhodes battling Vanko's weaponized drones and then Vanko himself. Tyson then showed his interference. Rather than allowing Vanko to die, Tyson appeared before Vanko as he landed, ensnaring him with his power. In this version, Tony and Rhodes prevailed while Vanko survived.

Natasha's sharp eyes studied Vanko toiling obliviously at his workbench. Something still did not make sense. If Vanko lived, why was he here working in Tyson's lab?

Noticing her confusion, Tyson explained further. "Vanko's mind was poisoned by vengeance against Stark for his father's ruin," he explained. "So I gave him a mental push with my abilities, redirecting his passions. Now instead of harm, he strives to help."

Natasha nodded slowly as Tyson's words sank in, the pieces coming together. She gestured to the second man present in a silent request for an explanation of this unknown person's identity and purpose here.

A moment later, an illusion sprang up in front of Natasha. The Lizard. She watched as the scene shifted, displaying what would have transpired had Tyson not intervened. It was a grim scenario. The Lizard infiltrated Oscorp and planned to release an aerosolized version of his formula across New York City, transforming countless innocent citizens into savage reptilian monsters. During the ensuing chaos, Spider-Man was shot by an NYPD officer, and tragically, Captain George Stacy, father of Peter Parker's girlfriend Gwen Stacy, died.

Tyson explained in a low voice, "I stopped the Lizard before he could enact his plan. Afterward, I relocated Dr. Connors and his lab to the House of M, where he could continue his work safely under my supervision." He continued, "I've guided Connors to perfect his regenerative formula while eliminating the severe side effects. He retains his human intellect but can access the Lizard's powers when needed."

Natasha absorbed this new information, turning over the ethical implications of Tyson's actions. On the one hand, he had used his abilities to steer events and individuals away from destructive paths. Vanko and Connors had been redirected from pursuing vengeance or harm. On the other hand, she couldn't help but consider the consequences of such heavy-handed manipulation, however well-intentioned. Where did one draw the line?

Tyson inclined his head, as though reading her thoughts. "Come on," he said, leading her from the lab. They entered the executive lounge where Tyson moved behind the bar. He extracted an expensive bottle of Natasha's favorite red wine and poured some into a glass, offering it to her. "It's the real vintage, not a conjured illusion," he assured her with a faint smile.

Natasha accepted the glass, her emerald eyes clouded with contemplation as she gave voice to her inner turmoil regarding Tyson's actions. "On the surface, it seems you're helping people," she began carefully, "But in truth, you're controlling them. I'm torn between admiring your noble intentions and being deeply troubled by the methods. I can't decide if I should applaud you for averting disasters or condemn you for manipulating the course of people's lives." The ethical quandary was evident in her voice.

Tyson let out a mirthless chuckle, acknowledging the gravity of her words. "Honestly, I've thought the same thing."

Natasha then articulated the crux of her unease. "Believing you know what's best for someone is one thing," she cautioned, her piercing eyes flashing. "But forcing them down that path, regardless of their wishes, borders on megalomania. And I put a bullet through someone tonight for precisely that."

"I have two critical questions for you," she said, pausing to swirl the crimson liquid, the deliberate motion underscoring the import of what she was about to ask.

Natasha's first question cut to the heart of the matter, her eyes boring into Tyson's with laser-like intensity. "How do you know your vision was real? If it wasn't completely accurate, how can you be certain it wasn't a fluke or that you yourself weren't manipulated by one of the more powerful psyches you absorbed?" Her question reflected a fundamental uncertainty regarding the true nature of Tyson's vision and its credibility. She then posed her second question, one that probed Tyson's motivations. "And why save them at all? What's the point? Green Goblin was a psychopath. The world was probably better off without him. So why intervene to rescue Vanko and the Lizard?"

Tyson paused, gathering his thoughts before responding to Natasha's probing questions. "Looking at the smaller picture," he began, "Connors was motivated by noble intentions. He wanted to fix his physical handicap and more broadly, he wanted to use that to help humanity, but stumbled in his methods. Similarly, Vanko managed to engineer a suit to challenge Stark's despite access to limited resources. And once he had access to Hammer's resources, his suit rivaled both Iron Man and War Machine." he explained, elaborating on both men's potential that warranted a second chance at life.

"But first, let me address your initial skepticism," Tyson continued. "As for the validity of foreseeing future events..." He trailed off, waving his hand in an elegant motion. At his command, the air shimmered, conjuring an illusion of an object familiar to Natasha.

The Tesseract.

It appeared as a luminous blue cube, about a foot in diameter. Strange energy pulsated within its crystalline depths, hinting at the immense power contained within its geometric form. Natasha's eyes widened almost imperceptibly as the artifact hovered before her.

"How could you know about this?" she asked bluntly, unable to mask her surprise. Her terse reaction affirmed the sheer improbability of Tyson possessing knowledge of such a highly classified and dangerous object. Natasha's expression shifted, her eyes narrowing in suspicion as she muttered under her breath, "I may be compromised. You could've extracted this intel from my mind unknowingly." Her statement reflected a growing unease that Tyson's abilities may have inadvertently gleaned such sensitive information from her or others within SHIELD.

Sensing Natasha's descent into doubt, Tyson gently interjected, "Before you go down that rabbit hole, let me explain further."

With a wave of his hand, the illusion shifted. The Tesseract's shell melted away, exposing a radiant blue gemstone at its core, glimmering with cosmic light. "What you don't know is that the Tesseract is merely a container. Inside lies an object known as an Infinity Stone. Particularly, the Space Stone."

Tyson paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing his account. His expression grew solemn as he went on to explain the broader context. "There are six of these stones scattered throughout the universe, each holding near unlimited power. They are remnants from the creation of existence itself." He methodically listed them one by one. "Space. Time. Mind. Power. Reality. Soul."

With a wave of his hand, the green Time Stone glowed brighter, drawing Natasha's focus. "The Time Stone is also here on Earth," Tyson added pointedly.

The illusion before them shifted, revealing a towering, imposing figure with purplish-blue skin etched with deep lines. He had a broad, muscular build and stood with a commanding presence that exuded power. His ornate armor was both regal and intimidating, instantly marking him as a conqueror.

"This is the Mad Titan, Thanos," Tyson said, his tone growing more ominous. "A powerful tyrant who will stop at nothing to accomplish his twisted goal... collecting all the Infinity Stones." Tyson explained, "With the stones, Thanos gains the ability to wipe out half of all life with a snap of his fingers."

The illusion shifted again, depicting scenes of unimaginable global catastrophe. Natasha looked on in dismay as people across Earth turned to dust. She even saw Clint Barton crying out in anguish, his family claimed among the countless victims. There was no way Tyson should know about Barton's family, they'd hardly had any contact.

"That's it? That can't be how it ends," Natasha exclaimed, shaken by the potential future Tyson had revealed. As someone who had stared down countless threats in her life, the idea of such a definitive and catastrophic end was unacceptable to her. This was a call to action, a challenge to somehow alter the course of the future she had just witnessed. There had to be a way to prevent the Mad Titan from succeeding. She would not accept this bleak outcome as the final conclusion.

A sad smile played on Tyson's lips as he spoke reassuringly. "Of course not. The good guys win in the end," he said. He elaborated, "Tony Stark figures out the secret of time travel. He builds a machine that allows a group to journey into the past, collecting all six Infinity Stones from various points, and undoing Thanos's snap."

Natasha studied Tyson closely, noticing he seemed sad despite the happy ending he had just described. Confused and concerned by his emotional response, she asked, "If there's a victory over Thanos, why does your face say we lost?"

Natasha gently reminded, "No secrets between us," invoking their earlier promise of complete transparency.

In response, Tyson shifted the illusion surrounding them. The lounge transformed into a vivid alien landscape under a burnt orange sky. Natasha saw herself alongside Clint Barton, both dressed in matching uniforms. Tyson's voice, heavy with emotion, narrated the scene that was unfolding.

"You and Clint are chosen for the mission to retrieve the Soul Stone. But the Soul Stone demands a terrible price in exchange..." He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "Sacrificing the life of someone you love."

The implication landed like a physical blow, forcing the air from Natasha's lungs. Either she or Clint would have to die so this mission could succeed.

Natasha watched with building dread as the illusion continued, depicting a heartbreaking scene atop the craggy cliffs. She saw herself and Clint locked in a desperate, life-or-death struggle, each trying with all their strength to prevent the other from making the ultimate sacrifice.

As the scene played out, Tyson provided mournful narration, his voice solemn and heavy. "I've said before that I know there's more to you than what you choose to show me. Because I truly do know." He paused, allowing the devastating weight of the moment to fully permeate Natasha's senses.

"All that red you believe is in your ledger gets wiped clean when you give your life to save half the universe." Tyson's words acknowledged Natasha's tireless efforts to atone for past misdeeds, and the sheer magnitude of her sacrifice.

The illusion reached its tragic conclusion as Natasha fell to her death amid the rocky cliffs.

"I admire you more than any person I've ever met. Even before we first spoke, I admired you." Tyson's voice swelled with heartfelt respect and admiration. "What you've overcome, who you are, the good you've done... you are brave and good, and worthy of everything."

Tyson's confession emerged raw and heartfelt. "Over time, I've come to know and care for you deeply," he admitted, voice cracking. He paused, struggling to steady his trembling words. "You are precious to me, Natasha. I don't want to lose you."

Natasha absorbed the swell of emotions as she witnessed her potential fate. Though pierced by pain at the sight of her death, Tyson's words wrapped her like a warm blanket. His unexpected confession touched something deep inside, a vulnerability rarely permitted light.

"Do you believe me? Will you help me save half the universe and yourself along the way? Can you bring yourself to trust me?" His pleading words hung heavy between them, layered with naked earnestness.

Natasha had no glib reply, no quip or evasion. Wordlessly, she stepped forward, gently pressing a gloved hand to his chest. Her answer, when it came, was far more profound than any words could convey.

Natasha kissed him.

With that simple press of her lips, she acknowledged their bond and committed herself fully to the mission. In that kiss, Tyson knew Natasha completely. She lowered every defense, allowing him to see the soft, vulnerable core she bared for no other. Natasha chose him unequivocally, opening herself to the possibility of a shared future.

She was recruited into the KGB's Red Room program at a young age. They molded her into a formidable operative, skilled in combat, espionage, and manipulation. It was in the Red Room where she met Yelena Belova, who became a sister to her, and Alexei Shostakov, the Red Guardian, a father figure of sorts. During her time in the Red Room, she was subjected to intense and brutal training. She excelled in every aspect, and quickly rose to prominence as the most adept trainee. Her skills were honed to near perfection, turning her into an unparalleled spy and assassin. Her reputation as 'the' Black Widow grew, making her one of the world's most feared and respected operatives. However, her life took a significant turn when she encountered Clint Barton, an agent of SHIELD. Clint was sent to eliminate her but instead saw potential in her abilities and character. He offered her a chance for redemption and a new path. Her recruitment into SHIELD began a new chapter in her life. Under Nick Fury and with the support of Clint Barton, she started to use her skills for a greater cause. She became an integral part of SHIELD, embarking on numerous missions that took her across the globe. Her expertise in espionage, combat, and intelligence gathering made her an invaluable asset to the organization.

Tyson's life-absorbing abilities granted him unfettered access to Natasha's inner psyche, allowing him to sift through her memories and emotions like pages in a book. He focused on one aspect; her evolving feelings toward him.

At first, the consummate spy regarded Tyson with professional curiosity, keeping him at arm's length. To Natasha, Tyson was an unknown, his extraordinary powers making him dangerous. But over time Natasha's sentiment shifted. She saw beyond Tyson's abilities, recognizing his moral character and motivations. Her wariness transformed, deepening into friendship. Within her memories, Tyson caught glimpses of vulnerability that had cut through her composure. A softness in her eyes when she looked at him, an unguarded laugh, her hand resting gently on his shoulder; subtle tells that her emotional barriers were lowering. He felt her protective instincts toward him that went beyond duty. Natasha was permitting herself to be vulnerable around this man, against a lifetime's conditioning. Tyson sensed the growing warmth she felt for him, mingled with trust and admiration. The woman who shunned emotional connection, whose life made relationships perilous, found in Tyson someone who knew her complexities and accepted them. Their bond was more than a partnership; he was her kindred spirit.

Sifting through Natasha's mind, Tyson uncovered the stunning truth. She had fallen in love with him. It was a quiet yet profound love, nurtured by their shared experiences and mutual understanding. A grave responsibility came with such knowledge of her innermost self. Her love for him was sincere. Tyson vowed to honor the privilege of her memories, treasuring the love she gifted to him.

Tyson gently withdrew from Natasha, breaking their brief yet intimate kiss. Mere seconds had passed in reality, though immersed in her memories, it felt as if hours had drifted by.

Natasha's body tensed, her piercing green eyes clouded with unease. What had he glimpsed in her unfiltered thoughts and emotions? She averted her gaze.

Tyson's expression remained warm. "I love you too," he said softly.

Natasha's eyes snapped back to his, wide with surprise. His simple words acknowledged her hidden feelings laid bare.

Swallowing hard, Natasha steadied herself. "So how do we save the universe?" she asked with steel in her tone. Her posture shifted, determination etched in the set of her jaw. She would stand with him, whatever was to come.

"You've been busy," Natasha continued briskly, ticking each point off on her fingers. "Robbing the Federal Reserve, running the most popular show in the city, hoarding scientists and wealth."

Her gaze bore into Tyson's mismatched eyes. "But if you know what's coming, what's your plan? What are you doing about it?"

Tyson met her piercing question with a thoughtful silence. When he finally spoke, his deep voice was measured and deliberate. "I have taken a few precautions to address impending threats." He peered at Natasha intently. "Tell me, have you heard of Trask Industries?"

Natasha tilted her hand in a noncommittal gesture.

Tyson nodded. "They possess technology that could prove catastrophically dangerous if it falls into the wrong hands. Like a world-ending level threat. I've already assembled a team to... procure the company." His tone made the implications clear.

"But there is a much more immediate concern, given what we learned from General Ross," he continued gravely.

Tyson paused, gathering his thoughts before proceeding. "I suppose starting from the beginning would make this easier to explain," he said slowly, his gaze distant.

"Let's rewind to the founding of SHIELD. America took in numerous Nazi scientists, believing they could prove useful. Their crimes were exonerated in exchange for their expertise."

Natasha's eyes narrowed, her red hair falling across her face as she nodded. "Operation Paperclip. German scientists brought to the States, their pasts wiped clean."

"Exactly," Tyson confirmed. "One of those scientists, Arnim Zola, was secretly a high-ranking member of HYDRA."

He let the words hang in the air before continuing. "Once in America, he methodically began rebuilding the organization within SHIELD. itself." Tyson's mismatched eyes were troubled, highlighting the enormity of the challenge facing them.

"HYDRA is now so intrinsically entwined within SHIELD that it will be exceedingly difficult to determine true allegiances," he said grimly. "I would have to use my abilities to the fullest to unmask their operatives with absolute certainty."

Natasha absorbed the implications, her sharp mind racing. HYDRA's infiltration of SHIELD posed a monumental threat, undermining the integrity of the entire organization. Trust could no longer be afforded within their ranks.

Tyson's account continued, revealing further troubling layers. "The truth remains hidden from you for years to come," he said, his voice tinged with melancholy. "But when it is finally dragged into the light, the ensuing fallout causes the very collapse of SHIELD itself."

The notion that SHIELD, the formidable organization that had shaped her life and global security, would one day crumble unsettled her greatly. She had devoted herself fully to their mission, and to hear of its eventual dissolution was deeply unsettling.

"Along the way, you and Captain America pay a visit to Camp Lehigh," Tyson went on, referring back to the location General Ross had mentioned earlier. "But retrieving the super soldier serum is not your true purpose there. Deep below the camp, you uncover something far more unexpected." His grave tone hinted at the gravity of what they would find beneath the surface. "In a forgotten subterranean lab straight out of the 1970s, you discover that Arnim Zola still lives, after a fashion," he continued, painting a vivid scene of antiquated computer equipment harboring a chilling secret. "Through some technological sorcery, Zola transferred his consciousness into those aging computer banks. He continues to advance Hydra's cause even now like a digital ghost haunting the machine."

The notion that Zola had somehow preserved his mind digitally sent an icy chill down Natasha's spine, underscoring the depths of evil Hydra would plumb to further its ambitions. She asked pointedly, "Captain America? What are you talking about? And what happened to the super soldier serum when I went to the base?" The sharp edge in her voice conveyed the critical importance of that vial to their operations.

"I know it sounds farfetched, but Captain America is going to be found sometime in the next few months, frozen in Arctic ice. He survived all this time, in a sort of suspended animation," Tyson explained patiently. "As for the super soldier serum... I'm afraid I don't know for certain," he admitted with a tinge of uncertainty. "It wasn't part of the vision. If no one retrieved it before your arrival, it was likely destroyed." He added a crucial detail, "Camp Lehigh was bombed and razed during your visit there."

Noticing his specific phrasing, Natasha sought clarification, "During? Not after?" Her surprise at the timing of the base's destruction was evident.

"Yes, during," Tyson confirmed.

Since she survives these events, she doesn't dwell on the details.

Natasha's sharp mind grasped the dynamics at play. "So you're worried that if we retrieve the serum now, the universe will retaliate against your actions?" she concluded.

Tyson gave a noncommittal shrug, his manner conveying a blend of resignation and acceptance in the face of forces beyond his control. "It seems that way," he acknowledged gravely, his tone hinting back to the unintended consequences of his previous interferences with the timeline. "I've already encountered HYDRA agents. Jasper Sitwell, a SHIELD agent I met in New Mexico, Edgar Lascombe, CEO of Marchand Pharmaceuticals, and Maki Matsumoto, a mercenary working with the Hand, a group of ninjas."

At the mention of ninjas, Natasha raised an eyebrow skeptically. Tyson held up a hand and insisted, "No Naruto bullshit, I promise. Colleen, the woman who trained us, was part of that group."

Natasha's expression softened as memories of their intense training resurfaced.

"Colleen was exceptionally skilled..." she murmured, trailing off.

Tyson continued, "Sitwell recruited me into HYDRA under the guise of SHIELD. I'm officially part of their organization now too, I suppose." He paused, then added with a touch of pride, "But I'm planning to infiltrate as a double agent."

Natasha rolled her eyes at his bravado, though she had to admit, "You've done well so far, I suppose. But your power makes it easy, it's like cheating."

Her sharp mind turned to strategy as she posed the critical question that cut to the heart of their dilemma, "If you tried to save your school, only to have extra mutants appear to fight you... then what would happen if you went after the super soldier serum now and confronted HYDRA years earlier than intended?"

Tyson shook his head, his grave expression conveying deep concern. "That's why I didn't mention their existence earlier. Who knows what would happen if I moved openly against them now?"

Natasha nodded slowly, understanding the need for caution. With forces beyond comprehension at work, they would have to play the long game.

"So we leave it for now. Unless you had some plans for using the serum?"

Her pragmatism gave him pause. Though his instincts urged him to seize the super soldier serum, if every action invited unintended consequences, perhaps inaction was the wisest path, for now.

"You make a fair point," he conceded. He clasped his hands together, gazing down as he gathered his thoughts. "My vision didn't reveal anything about the serum's fate. I've had Dr. Connors researching various projects, but I didn't make direct plans for the super soldier serum itself." He looked back up at Natasha. "But what if, in doing nothing, we enable someone else to take hold of it? I'd almost rather claim it now than risk having to contend with an army of enemy super soldiers later."

Natasha pursed her lips, contemplating their options. "Perhaps we could use an outside agent to retrieve it, someone unaffiliated with SHIELD. That way we don't draw Hydra's focus prematurely." She paused, folding her arms across her chest. "We can't account for every possibility if everything you do alters events. We just need to prepare as best we can for what we know is coming."

Natasha was curious regarding the potential consequences of Tyson's past interference. "Did you experience any significant backlash when you robbed the Federal Reserve?" she asked, seeking to discern any telling patterns, to unravel the nature of the universe's supposed reactions to his meddling.

Tyson's simple response of "No" indicated that the brazen action, despite its sheer magnitude, had not resulted in any direct or immediate cosmic repercussions that he could discern. But his expression remained contemplative. He added, "Well, maybe... Robbing the Federal Reserve certainly drew your attention. But I'd call that a net positive."

Natasha's smile was subtle, yet hinted at a shared understanding. She continued her meticulous line of questioning, intent on unraveling the layers of Tyson's past exploits. "What about when you captured the spider that gave Spider-Man his powers?" she pressed. "Were there any consequences related to that event?"

Again Tyson replied with an unambiguous "No."

But once more Tyson halted, taking a moment to gather his thoughts and mentally sift through everything that had transpired in the aftermath. Natasha waited patiently, giving him space to reflect. "Maybe..." he finally said, a hesitant tone in his voice as he prepared to elaborate.

"In my vision, Peter was the only one bitten by the spider," Tyson explained. "But before I captured it, there was another girl bitten, Cindy Moon. You might not remember her, but she was a student at Midtown. After the bite, her parents pulled her out of school entirely." He paused, brow furrowed. "I tried to follow up, but her mother was a dead end. As far as I could tell, the father is just plain dead. The mom did give me a lead though, which guided me to a pharmaceutical company. That's how I learned the CEO, Edgar Lascombe, was HYDRA."

Tyson's expression was grave. "I wasn't able to find Cindy after that. She was moved out of the country. I still haven't been able to follow that lead yet." He hesitated before adding with concern, "I'm not sure if it's a direct correlation, because Cindy was bitten before I captured the spider, but she wasn't part of my vision of the future."

Natasha pressed him for more information. "What about capturing the two scientists, Connors and Vanko?" she asked, "Have there been any consequences from saving them, having them here?"

"I've only had Vanko here a few days, but it's been months with Connors. So far I haven't seen any major repercussions from that." Tyson's responses revealed little, painting a picture devoid of significant changes.

Natasha arched a slender eyebrow, unsatisfied. She continued along the same line of questioning, gesturing around them. "And acquiring this place? Manipulating Fisk?" she challenged, indicating House of M with a wave. "That was another major play."

Comprehension slowly dawned on Tyson as he followed Natasha's line of reasoning. "You're right," he said, his voice tinged with unease. "Some of my actions have immediately, provoked reactions, while others seemed to go unnoticed."

Natasha's eyes flashed with satisfaction, having led him to her intended conclusion. She tied her observations together with one final pointed question. "So in summary. Hydra has its own Spider-Man. But I'm more concerned that you stole half a billion dollars without any apparent pushback. Acquired a valuable property and are using it to house super-scientists, and are also acquiring a potentially Apocalypse-level threat created by a technology company. So, either you're wrong and chasing ghosts since a significant portion of your actions haven't merited a reaction..." She paused, holding his gaze with hers. "Or we've yet to see the fallout when the universe corrects itself to account for the ripples caused by the House of M."

Her words hung heavy between them, profound in their implication although Tyson had not yet faced direct consequences, the universe could still correct itself through some larger cosmic balancing act.

Tyson slowly nodded, his brow furrowing as he contemplated her perspective. A knot of apprehension formed in his gut as he considered what unintended results could be brewing just out of sight, consequences yet to make themselves known.