Marvel: Familia System

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Grinning, Tony Stark said, "I am the Iron Man," raising his arms triumphantly into the air. The press, army officials, and even his own consultant erupted in chaos. The bright camera flashes captured Tony's smug expression, relishing the collective shock.

Donald quickly muted the screen as the reporters' frantic questions began to overlap. He leaned back, glancing at Nero, who seemed to be the only one in the room who remained calm, a small smile playing on his lips.

Nero's predictions had been spot-on, as usual. Even though he had warned them about this twist—thanks to those otherworldly memories—the actual moment still carried a jolt of disbelief.

"Well, that was a performance," Diego remarked with a smirk, his voice rich and smooth as ever. His eyes sparkled with mischief, the perfect blend of admiration and mockery.

Nero gazed at Diego with calm intensity, waiting for his report. "How are the shares?"

Diego leaned back in his chair, a confident grin spreading across his face. "We played it perfectly, Nero. Just as you suggested, we bought when Stark vanished for that week. Once he returned from Afghanistan, the stocks skyrocketed, and we cashed in. When he announced the end of weapon sales, they plummeted again. We swooped in and bought more."

He paused, letting the gravity of their moves sink in. "And after today's performance? They'll rise again, just as you predicted. We're sitting on a mountain of profit. Your timing was impeccable."

Nero nodded, satisfied. "Good. But don't get too comfortable. Stark's unpredictability can be an asset, but it can also be a liability. We need to stay ahead of the game."

Diego chuckled softly, his eyes gleaming with admiration. "With you steering the ship, Nero, I doubt we'll ever lose sight of the horizon. Besides, you always seem to have a plan for every twist and turn."

Nero allowed a small smile to form as Maria broke the brief silence. "Well, this is definitely going to shake things up. Erwin just messaged me—Nick Fury wanted to see him yesterday morning. It seems Erwin's continued success has caught Fury's attention. He offered to join Real SHIELD."

Nero chuckled softly, "Faster than I'd planned, but not bad. I had hoped to introduce Erwin to the top of SHIELD once a god appeared, but it seems he's already outpacing my timeline."

He glanced over at Donald, who met his gaze with a questioning look. The glint in Nero's eyes hinted at something, but Donald couldn't quite decipher what it meant.

From the side, Anthony spoke up, unable to move as Sofia perched on his lap, "I still don't get why we can't tap more funds from Warren. He agreed to help us, right? We could've grabbed even more shares."

Nero smiled, but it was Nigel who answered instead. "In the stock market, large sums of money draw attention, especially from the wealthy. If Warren made a significant move, others would catch on to the rise of Stark Industries. They'd either lock down the market to prevent a drastic shift or make massive transactions of their own to disrupt prices. With the boss's foresight, we were already ahead of them. More money isn't always the solution."

Anthony's eyes widened with understanding as Nigel finished. "Well, whatever. We made a big buck." He leaned back, satisfied, but Nero's attention had already shifted.

"Sofia," Nero began, his voice taking on a softer, almost indulgent tone as he addressed her. "How are the user numbers looking for Squeak, Facenote, and Instaroll?" These were platforms inspired by his otherworldly insights, and their progress was crucial.

Sofia, who had been comfortably settled on Anthony's lap, straightened up slightly. "Well, Squeak's been climbing steadily," Sofia started, her tone light but carrying the weight of the information. "We're seeing a significant uptick in daily active users—close to 20% over the last quarter. Facenote is also growing, but at a slower pace, around 10%. Instaroll, though... that's where the real magic is happening. User engagement is through the roof, especially with the new features we rolled out. We're talking a 30% increase, easy."

"You know, I had a feeling Squeak would be the frontrunner. It's got that… addictive quality. People just can't resist those short bursts of content." Nero leaned in slightly, his expression one of interest, but not surprise. "And what about the competition? Are we seeing any pushback?"

Sofia's fingers drummed lightly on the armrest, her eyes sparkling with a mix of excitement and pride. "We've been tracking it closely. They've tried to mimic some of our features, but they're lagging behind. Instaroll's user interface and the integration with Squeak are setting us apart. They can't keep up."

Diego, who had been quietly observing, couldn't help but interject, a sly grin tugging at his lips. "Sounds like we're making waves, Nero. You know, I could always... encourage a few key influencers to start talking about our platforms more. Nothing too obvious, just a little nudge."

Nero chuckled softly, appreciating Diego's knack for subtlety. "I'll leave that to your discretion, Diego. Just keep it under the radar. We don't want to raise any red flags, not yet."

Sofia gave Diego a knowing look, her voice teasing. "As if you needed any encouragement to flex your influence."

Diego raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "Who, me? I'm just a humble man trying to spread the word."

Nero shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. "Humble, indeed. Just remember, we're playing the long game here. No sudden moves."

Nigel's voice cut through the room, bringing the conversation back to the topic at hand. "Now that Iron Man's public, it won't be long before we see the Hulk in action too."

Nero nodded, his expression unreadable. "Lara and Sofia have been monitoring General Ross closely. We have enough leverage to send Ross spiraling into oblivion."

Sofia affirmed Nero's statement with a brief nod. Maria, perched comfortably on the arm of Nero's sofa, wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned in. "Why wait for them to turn poor Banner into the Hulk? We can act now, right?"

Nero's eyes softened as he turned his gaze to Maria, the hint of a smile touching his lips. "We could, but some events are too pivotal to alter. Sure, I intervene where it benefits us, but preventing the Hulk from ever coming into existence? That might provoke forces we're not ready to confront yet."

Diego leaned back in his chair and glanced at Nero with a knowing grin. "So, we're biding our time, then? Waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Sounds like a good strategy to me."

Soon, the unmistakable whir of chopper blades filled the air, the sound growing louder as it approached. Moments later, the sleek black helicopter descended gracefully, stirring up dust and loose leaves as it landed on the estate's helipad. Warren Worthington III stepped out, exuding confidence in his tailored suit, his angelic wings folding neatly behind him. With stron strides, he made his way toward the office. As he stepped in, his gaze swept the room, quickly landing on the muted television screen that still showed the chaos from Tony Stark's announcement.

"So you're already aware of it," Warren remarked as he approached the group. His tone was casual, but his eyes reflected a deeper calculation.

Nero rose to greet him, a grin pulling at the corners of his lips. "You didn't fly all the way from New York just to tell us to turn on the TV, did you?" Nero's handshake was firm, though his words held a playful edge.

Diego chimed in with a mocking shake of his head. "Just because you're rich doesn't mean you can use your helicopter to deliver messages, Warren."

Rolling his eyes, Warren took a seat with the rest of the group. "Well, when your portfolio sees a spike like mine did, you can afford a little indulgence." He then nodded towards TV, "I'm here to thank you. Your insights proved invaluable. I was able to buy up stocks just before Stark made his debut."

Anthony, who had been silent up until now, frowned in confusion, scratching his head as he glanced at Nigel. "Wait, didn't you just say we couldn't tell the rich? So how did Warren find out?"

Donald almost slapped his forehead. Anthony could be simple sometimes, missing the subtlety of the situation. Nero, ever the patient one with his inner circle, gave a small smile as if Anthony's comment hadn't disrupted the flow of the conversation. "We did keep it from them, Anthony," he began, his tone casual, almost playful, "but after we secured our shares, leaking the information to a select few worked to our advantage. Warren was already aware that we had this knowledge tucked away for a while. He's a smart man—I doubt he'd mind us playing the game."

Warren, leaning back in his chair, chuckled softly. "Not at all. In fact, I appreciate the heads-up, even if it was after the fact. Timing is everything, and you've got a knack for it, Nero."

Nero offered a slight nod, the conversation seemingly trivial to him now. "Exactly. The key is not in avoiding the attention of the wealthy but in knowing when to draw them in. Timing is everything."

Sofia, who had been listening quietly, finally chimed in, her voice carrying a casual, almost teasing tone. "And here I thought I was the one who mastered timing, considering our platform launches." She exchanged a playful glance with Nero, who smirked back.

"Your timing is impressive, Sofia. But in this game, it's all about layering strategies. Stocks, social media, politics—they're just different threads in the same tapestry," Nero replied, his tone as light as hers but with an underlying current of seriousness.

Nigel leaned back, his analytical gaze sweeping the room. "A tapestry indeed. And Stark just wove himself into the next section, whether he realizes it or not. The moves we make now will set the tone for the next few months."

Diego glanced at Nigel and then back to Nero, a sly grin forming on his lips. "So, what's the next step, boss? I assume you've got something cooking already."

Nero nodded, his gaze steady as he replied, "Stark's moves will rattle the shareholders, and they'll react soon."

Warren leaned back, his expression contemplative. "Obadiah Stane?"

Nero was surprised. Warren's sharpness had always been impressive, but pinpointing Obadiah Stane from just a few hints showed a keen insight. He nodded, choosing his words carefully. "Yes, Obadiah will likely challenge Stark. His influence in Stark Industries can't be underestimated."

Warren, unaware of Nero's otherworldly knowledge, wouldn't be privy to the full extent of Nero's foresight. It was better to keep things subtle. Warren leaned back, processing the information, but it wasn't long before his curiosity got the best of him. "So, is Neogenes getting involved with this one?"

Nero shook his head, his tone calm yet firm. "No, not this time. This is something I'll handle personally. But you will act soon enough. General Ross is stirring up trouble. Once I have the details, you'll be the first to know."

The conversation moved on quickly, no one lingering too long on one topic. In a room like this, with minds like theirs, the gears were always turning, eyes always set on the next move.

Soon, the unmistakable sound of helicopter blades once again filled the air, prompting the group to glance out the window. Two choppers in one day? That was unexpected. Warren, who was still standing, chuckled as he looked outside.

"My ride's here," he announced casually, eliciting a confused look from Anthony.

"Didn't you just arrive with one?" Anthony asked, bewildered.

Warren flashed a grin, clearly enjoying the moment. "The first one was a gift for your boss, a little token of appreciation for the insights he's shared. This one is my ride back home."

Nero stood up, extending his hand. "I'll gladly accept your gift, Warren."

Warren nodded, shook Nero's hand firmly, and then made his way out. As the door closed behind him, Maria let out a soft sigh, her gaze lingering on the closed door. "He's sharp, that one."

Nero nodded thoughtfully, his mind replaying the earlier conversation. Warren's question about Obadiah had been more than just curiosity; it was a test. Warren was well aware of Obadiah's schemes—his reach extended far beyond what most knew. He'd been probing, seeing if Nero would divulge any more than necessary. But of course, revealing the true source of Nero's foresight was out of the question.

Nero settled back into his chair, the room falling into a contemplative silence. The group exchanged glances, each lost in their thoughts about the intricacies of the game they were playing. In this world of power plays and secrets, trust was a luxury, and information was the most valuable currency.

Sofia stretched lazily as she slid off Anthony's lap, a mischievous yawn escaping her lips. "This serious mood irritates me," she muttered, her tone light but with a hint of genuine annoyance. She knew how to break the tension, and as expected, her comment did just that.

Anthony also got up, trying to stretch out his leg, which had fallen asleep under Sofia's weight. He hesitated at first, enjoying the warmth of her presence, reluctant to move her—like a cat that had claimed his lap. But now that she was gone, he let out a deep sigh of relief, the pins and needles sensation spreading through his leg as he worked to shake it off.

The room, once thick with the intensity of their discussion, began to lighten up. Laughter and teasing remarks filled the air as the group allowed themselves a moment of relaxation. Donald, usually the more reserved and focused one, couldn't help but chuckle at the sudden shift in energy.

Diego leaned back in his chair, grinning at Sofia. "You sure know how to kill a mood, don't you?" he teased, though the twinkle in his eye made it clear he was anything but upset.

Sofia raised a finger, shaking it playfully. "It's called Resurrection, Diego. Repeat after me—Re-sur-rec-tion. The mood was dead before I brought it back to life."

Diego rolled his eyes with a mock sigh. "Fine, I was getting bored of it anyway."

Nero, already on his feet, scooped Maria off hers in one smooth motion, planting a kiss on her cheek. "Sofia's right. Sitting rigidly, scheming and talking about dark subjects—terrible for the mood. I hate it too, but as your awesome boss, I put up with it for you guys."

The group collectively groaned, rolling their eyes in unison, even Nigel, who usually kept his reactions subtle. "Narcissist," they all muttered in perfect synchronization.

Feigning a dramatic expression of hurt, Nero clutched his chest. "Et tu, Nigel?"

Nigel chuckled, a rare sound from him. "Capo, you keep that up, and you might end up like Caesar—betrayed by everyone if you copy his narcissism."

Nero shrugged with a grin, clearly unbothered. "Well, I doubt Caesar had a chopper. So, who's up for a ride?"

The group exchanged amused glances, the earlier tension dissolving as quickly as it had come. Anthony, still stretching his leg after Sofia's weight left it numb, cracked a grin. "Depends, are you flying, or do we actually have a chance of surviving?"

Laughter rippled through the room, lighthearted and genuine, as they all began to relax. Nero clapped his hands together, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Well, if you're all done doubting my fantastic flying skills, let's make it a race. Last one to the chopper buys dinner."

Before anyone could protest, Nero was already heading for the door, Maria still in his arms, laughing as she clung to him. The rest of the group quickly scrambled after him, their competitive sides ignited.

As they filed out, Diego lingered behind for a moment, watching the scene with a fond smile. His gaze shifted to Sofia, who had paused as well, her eyes sparkling with the same mischievous energy.

Sofia grinned, her eyes twinkling with amusement as she observed the others. "Seems like we're the only two smart ones here," she quipped, casting a sideways glance at Diego. He nodded in agreement, a sly smile playing on his lips as he cracked open the window.

"I'd say we've earned a head start." Diego's tone was light, and with a smooth gesture, he activated his ring, lifting off the ground. Sofia followed suit, her ascent effortless, the air around her shimmering with the energy of her abilities. They glided out the window, their pace casual as they soared towards the chopper.

As they neared the helipad, Sofia caught sight of Donald already standing beneath the chopper, his figure outlined by the powerful lights. He was twirling his cane idly, a knowing smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Only you two?" Donald's voice cut through the noise of the winds, laced with amusement. He tilted his head, eyes glinting mischievously. "I doubt it."

Sofia landed lightly beside him, brushing a stray hair from her face. "You should've warned us, Donald," she teased. "Or did you plan to make a grand entrance?"

Donald chuckled, his gaze drifting back towards the mansion. "Something like that," he admitted, spinning his cane one last time before catching it smoothly. "But don't get too comfortable. You know they're not far behind."

As if on cue, the distant sound of hurried footsteps reached their ears. Sofia smirked, leaning casually against the side of the chopper. "Here they come. Let's see who's buying dinner tonight."

Diego laughed, a rich, warm sound that blended with the whir of the helicopter. "My money's on Anthony. Others are too competitive to lose a race."

Donald's eyes twinkled with humor as he gave a mock salute. "Well, I guess we'll see soon enough." He glanced back at the approaching group, his smile widening. "And if we're lucky, maybe we'll even get a decent meal out of it."

Sofia glanced over at Nero, who was already several steps ahead of the others, leading the charge with his usual confidence. "Where's Nigel?" she asked, her tone casual but with a hint of curiosity. "I wasn't expecting him to join in on the race, but I didn't see him back in the office either."

Before anyone could respond, a voice drifted down from above, smooth and calm as always. "You called, Miss Sofia?" Nigel's voice carried effortlessly through the air, causing Sofia to jerk her head upward in surprise. Perched atop the chopper, Nigel sat with a serene expression, as if he had been there all along.

Sofia blinked, her surprise quickly turning into amusement. "Et tu, Nigel? When did you even get here?" she called up to him, her voice laced with mock disbelief.

Donald, who had been watching the exchange with a knowing grin, chuckled softly. "He beat me here. Seems like Nigel's always one step ahead." His tone carried an air of amused acknowledgment, as if Nigel's unpredictability was something he'd long accepted.

Nero, still holding Maria, had just arrived, a playful smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Well, Nigel always had a way of blending in. I'm more surprised you didn't notice sooner, Sofia."

Sofia folded her arms, feigning a pout. "I was distracted, okay? Not all of us can be as sneaky as you two."

Nigel, now visible as he climbed down from the chopper, shrugged with an amused smirk. "I consider it a compliment, Sofia. If you didn't notice, then I'm still doing my job right."

Maria, still comfortably in Nero's arms, laughed softly. "Let's just agree Nigel is the master of surprises. Now, are we getting on this thing or what?"

Sofia nodded, a grin forming on her face. "Let's go. I'm starving, and I'm pretty sure Anthony owes us all dinner after this."

Anthony, arriving last and panting, grumbled as he joined the group. "You all cheated! Nero was already running before he even called the race, Donald and Nigel—I have no clue how they got here so fast, and Diego and Sofia, you used your rings. It's not fair."

Maria grinned mischievously. "And what about me?"

Anthony shot her an exasperated look. "You didn't do anything—you just let Nero carry you!"

The group erupted in laughter, and Sofia, never one to let an opportunity pass, teased him mercilessly. "Lose is lose, babe. Stop whining and pay up."

Anthony muttered under his breath, "Fine, fine," accepting his fate. They all piled into the chopper, ready to head out for a well-earned meal. 

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