Chapter 34: A family date and First mission
Nick Fury stormed into his office on the helicarrier, still simmering from the events of Tony Stark's birthday party. The party had been a whirlwind of celebrations, tech demonstrations, and unfinished business. Fury had handed over Howard Stark's unfinished work—a legacy project that had been gathering dust for years. It was a symbolic gesture, acknowledging Stark's father's brilliance and the importance of continuing the work.
Now, with the festivities behind him, Fury's mood was darker. He needed answers, and as he sat behind his desk, a fresh wave of frustration hit him. Maria Hill walked in, her expression grim.
"Sir, we've gone through the Stark Expo structure," Hill began. "We tried everything, but we couldn't find any additional data or hidden tech. It's as if there's nothing left to uncover in it."
Fury's frustration boiled over. He slammed his fist on the desk. "Motherfuckers, I knew it. Ritsuka was right. No one can figure this out except Stark and Da Vinci. And now we're back to square one."
He leaned back, letting his thoughts drift to Ritsuka Fujimaru and the world from which he came. The stories Ritsuka had shared—of apocalyptic battles and cosmic forces—kept echoing in Fury's mind. He also learnt that Ritsuka faced a cosmic entity which came to earth as Ritsuka told him recently. Fury's respect for Ritsuka had grown from mere curiosity to genuine awe. The gravity of the threats Ritsuka had faced was something Fury couldn't ignore.
"I need to make a decision," Fury said, his tone resolute. "A big one."
Hill looked up, surprised. "What do you mean, sir?"
Fury took a deep breath. "Project Insight. We're shutting it down."
Hill's eyes widened. "What? But that's... that's a massive undertaking. It's been in development for years. We've invested billions of dollars, and the council—"
"Forget the council bitches," Fury interrupted. "I've seen the evidence. Ritsuka's been dealing with world-ending threats. He's faced things that make Project Insight look like a Disney fucking toy. If the Phoenix Force and world threats are coming, Insight's fucking useless."
"But the council—"
"I don't care about their shit fears," Fury cut her off again. "They're terrified of mutants, but they need to understand that the real danger comes from beyond. Ritsuka's story makes it clear that if we don't prepare for the cosmic threats, we're KFC toast."
Hill's expression hardened. "Stopping Project Insight means a lot of wasted resources. Not to mention the council's reaction. They won't take kindly to this."
Fury's gaze was unwavering. "I'm not going to backstab my friend. Ritsuka's identity and his warnings are enough to convince me. Besides, we've got a cosmic cloud that came close to Earth a few days ago. Reports indicate that its energy signature is still lingering. If I can use that to persuade that damn council, damn I will use it."
Hill frowned. "And what's your plan?"
"We'll repurpose the resources," Fury said decisively. "Turn Project Insight into three rescue helicarriers. They'll be our new focus. We need to be prepared for the real threats out there. The only thing we've got to protect ourselves right now is the Tesseract. We'll make sure that we can handle whatever comes next."
Hill stared at him, processing the enormity of the decision. "Alright, sir. I'll start drafting the plans for the transition. But this won't be easy."
Fury nodded, a flicker of determination in his eyes. "I know. But sometimes, making the right decision means going against the tide. We're going to make sure Earth is ready for the real threats. It's the only way forward."
As Hill left to begin the transition, Fury looked out of his office window, contemplating the massive change he had just set in motion. He knew it was a gamble, but one he was willing to take. The safety of Earth was worth every ounce of risk.
{A/N: Ritsuka already truned Archetype earth his lover. Lol. He will take care earth chan}
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Tony Stark's move to New York was more than just a change of scenery; it marked the dawn of a new era for Stark Industries. His latest acquisition the iconic *Stark Tower* became the cornerstone of his ambitious plans. The towering structure, now emblazoned with the Stark Industries logo, was more than a symbol of his company's success; it was a testament to his vision for the future.
As Stark Tower's renovations were completed, it quickly became the epicenter of Stark Industries' operations. The sleek, modern design of the tower mirrored the cutting-edge technology housed within its walls. With its advanced infrastructure and state-of-the-art labs, the tower was perfectly suited for the groundbreaking work Tony and Da Vinci were undertaking.
Tony and Da Vinci's clean energy project had reached new heights with Stark Tower as its base. The labs buzzed with activity as the team worked tirelessly to perfect their prototypes. The goal was ambitious: to produce pure, sustainable energy that could revolutionize the industry. The project attracted attention from environmentalists, investors, and tech enthusiasts alike, eager to see what Stark Industries would unveil next.
The purchase of Stark Tower had an immediate impact on Stark Industries' stock value. The company's growth was meteoric. Stocks soared as investors and the public became increasingly optimistic about Stark Industries' future. Ritsuka Fujimaru and Morgan, having invested in the company early on, saw their investments multiply, making them significantly wealthy. Their financial success was a testament to Tony's and Da Vinci's groundbreaking work and the trust in their vision.
Despite the whirlwind of activity at Stark Tower, life continued at a steady pace. Happy Hogan, ever the reliable assistant, made daily trips to the local bakery to fetch burgers and pastries for Tony and his team. The bakery, a favorite spot for Tony and Da Vinci, became a staple in their busy lives. These moments of normalcy provided a welcome break from the high-stakes environment of their work.
Stark Tower became a beacon of progress in New York. Its sleek lines and futuristic design symbolized the strides Stark Industries was making in the fields of clean energy and technology. The tower was not just a headquarters; it was a statement of intent, reflecting Tony's commitment to innovation and his vision for a brighter future.
As the days turned into months, Stark Industries continued to thrive under Tony's leadership. The company's growth was undeniable, and with Stark Tower standing tall as a symbol of their success, the future looked incredibly promising and many analysts predicted that Stark Industries would become the leading company in the industry within a year.
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In the bustling heart of New York, Ritsuka Fujimaru's bakery, had quickly grown into a beloved gem of the city. People lined up each morning, eager to taste the pastries and baked goods that had earned their place as a local favorite. From freshly-baked croissants to sweet cakes, the bakery had become a spot of comfort in the chaotic city, and its success showed no signs of slowing down.
But today wasn't about work. For the first time in months, Ritsuka had decided to take a break, leaving the shop in the capable hands of Karna, Santa Martha, Tamamo Cat, and the ever-enthusiastic Hibiki and Chikagi. He trusted them fully, especially with Karna overseeing things with his usual stoic care.
Apparently his lovers supported Ritsuka and wanted him to become successful. They didn't disturbed him in sleep or his time. All of them wanted to see Ritsuka open his dream shop and started to help him in kitchen. They all liked very much to help Ritsuka and even shiki who never went to kitchen tried first time , ofcourse it didn't go well. Nothingness they are happy to live normal happy life with him and create happy moments. They may tease him to have childrens but being with him is already best thing they can dream.
Today, Ritsuka had chosen to spend the day with Ereshkigal and Karen. All his lovers already gave permission to them.
As Ritsuka stepped out of his appartment after gave few words with karna, he was greeted by two important figures in his life: Ereshkigal and Karen. Karen, his bright-eyed daughter, smiled widely as she ran to him, her little arms wrapping around his legs. "Papa!" she exclaimed with a giggle, looking up at him with her big, curious eyes. Her affection was so innocent, so pure—it filled Ritsuka's heart every time.
"Ready for our family date?" Ritsuka asked, crouching down to pick up Karen, who eagerly settled into his arms.
"Yes, Ritsuka"
"You look amazing in that dress, Eresh," Ritsuka said softly, his gaze affectionate.
Ereshkigal's cheeks flushed ever so slightly, and she averted her eyes. "I-It's just a dress... Nothing special."
"It is when you're wearing it," he replied with a playful grin, earning an even deeper blush from her.
They walked together through the streets of New York, stopping briefly at the park where Karen excitedly ran off to chase butterflies. Ritsuka and Ereshkigal watched from a distance, content to let her enjoy herself, Ritsuka glanced at Ereshkigal. She seemed more relaxed than usual, her golden hair glimmering softly in the morning light. The lush greenery contrasted beautifully with the delicate blush on her cheeks.
"Isn't it peaceful here?" he asked gently, turning to her with a smile.
Ereshkigal nodded, her eyes fixed on the vibrant flowers lining the path. "It's... different. I'm not used to this much life, but it's nice. It feels... warmer."
Ritsuka chuckled softly. "You look beautiful today. It's nice seeing you smile like this." His words were sincere, his voice warm as he admired her.
Ereshkigal, though usually reserved, flushed at the compliment and cast her gaze down, pretending to study a flower. "You always say things like that out of nowhere..."
"Only when it's true." He gave her hand a gentle squeeze, the motion subtle and filled with affection.
As they walked further into the park, Karen skipped ahead of them, her teddy bear doll bouncing with every step. Her laughter filled the air, drawing Ritsuka's gaze to his daughter. She was growing quickly, and moments like this—where they could just enjoy life—felt more precious than anything.
"Karen!" Ritsuka called out, jogging ahead to catch up with her. "Do you want to eat snacks?"
"Yes papa" they found a quiet spot under a large oak tree. Ritsuka spread out a blanket and unpacked the picnic he had prepared. Homemade snacks—simple but made with care—filled the basket, and as they sat down, he could feel the weight of the world lifting from his shoulders.
"Here, try this," Ritsuka offered, handing Ereshkigal a sandwich he had made with her favorite ingredients.
She accepted it with a small nod, biting into it. "It's good," she said softly, her voice carrying an undertone of surprise.
"Glad you like it," Ritsuka replied with a grin. "I had some help, though. Tamamo insisted I add her 'special seasoning.'"
Ereshkigal raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smirk tugging at her lips. "I hope it wasn't anything dangerous."
Karen giggled, her mouth full of food. "Aunty Tamamo is funny and I like her!"
Ritsuka leaned back, hands behind his head, as the three of them enjoyed the picnic. The sun hung high in the sky, casting dappled light through the tree branches. It was a perfect day, and Ritsuka felt content, watching Ereshkigal and Karen interact. These moments of peace were few, but they were worth more than any victory in battle.
As the trio finished their snacks, Karen's excitement bubbled up, and Ritsuka suggested they head to a zoo or an aquarium, hoping both Ereshkigal and Karen would enjoy it. Ereshkigal, curious about the living world, and Karen, her adventurous spirit never dulled, quickly agreed.
At the zoo, Karen ran ahead, pulling on Ritsuka's hand as she eagerly pointed at each animal they passed. Her laughter filled the air as she watched the playful monkeys swing from branch to branch. Ereshkigal, meanwhile, stood quietly beside Ritsuka, her gaze calm yet intrigued by the diversity of life around her. Ritsuka could see how the living, breathing world fascinated her, contrasting the underworld she governed.
As they stood near a tiger's enclosure, Ritsuka leaned closer to Ereshkigal. "It's amazing to see all of these different lives thriving. Makes you appreciate how diverse the world is, doesn't it?"
Ereshkigal nodded softly, her eyes briefly meeting his before returning to the animals. "It's... strange, but beautiful. Life here is so full of energy. It's nothing like the stillness of Kur." There was a brief, wistful smile on her face, as if she was beginning to connect with this world, even if just a little.
Ritsuka gave her a reassuring smile. He was thoughtful and careful with her, understanding that Ereshkigal's role in the underworld had left her lonely. As much as she enjoyed this moment, he knew part of her felt a small twinge of guilt. But he wasn't about to let that weigh her down today.
"Hey, it's okay to enjoy yourself," he said gently. "You do so much for the souls in Kur—you've earned this. You deserve to experience the beauty of life here, with me, with us."
Ereshkigal looked up, slightly startled by his words, and then, as her cheeks reddened, she quickly glanced away. "I... I guess you're right. It's just... different, that's all."
After a day filled with animals and laughter, they made their way to a cozy café for a sweet treat. Karen was already bouncing with excitement at the thought of ice cream, and Ritsuka couldn't help but smile. He ordered for everyone, making sure to pick out flavors that both Ereshkigal and Karen would enjoy.
While Karen was busy with her ice cream, engrossed in the colorful sprinkles on top, Ritsuka took a moment to turn his attention to Ereshkigal. He reached across the table, gently brushing a stray strand of hair from her face, and smiled. "Be careful," he said in a soft tone, careful not to draw too much attention.
Her cheeks flushed again, and she quickly turned her gaze to her dessert. "Y-You're too forward sometimes," she mumbled, clearly flustered. But Ritsuka could see the small smile tugging at her lips, knowing she appreciated the compliment, even if she was too shy to admit it.
Meanwhile, Karen, covered in sprinkles and chocolate, was oblivious to the exchange as she continued devouring her ice cream, asking Ritsuka questions about all the animals they saw earlier. He answered her questions with the patience of a father, making sure she felt just as included as Ereshkigal.
"How about we watch the sunset somewhere special?" Ritsuka asked them
"Somewhere special?" Ereshkigal repeated, raising an eyebrow.
Ritsuka only smiled. "Trust me."
Ritsuka decided to Use his teleportation ability, In an instant, the scenery of New York disappeared, replaced by a breathtaking vista. They stood atop a cliff overlooking the Wakandan riverlands, the sun slowly descending behind the distant mountains. The sky was painted in shades of orange, pink, and gold, a scene so serene it felt like a dream.
Karen gasped in delight. "It's so pretty, Papa! Zzz hmm I'm sleepy papa" And just like that she fell in sleep in Ritsuka arms.
Karen, now sleepy, rested in Ritsuka's arms, her head gently tucked into his shoulder.
Then Ritsuka casted illusion disguise on them so no one can see them or find them.
Ereshkigal stood silent for a moment, taking in the beauty around them. Even with all her powers, this kind of peaceful beauty was rare in the Underworld. She glanced at Ritsuka, then her gaze locked on the vibrant sunset, her expression soft but reflective. "I never imagined a day like this," she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's like I'm living a dream."
Ritsuka looked down at Karen's sleeping form before turning to Ereshkigal, his voice gentle. "You deserve to have these moments, Eresh. You've always worked so hard. You're more than just the goddess of the underworld—you're part of this world too now, with me."
They sat together on the edge of the cliff, watching the sun dip lower and lower. Ritsuka held Karen in his arms while Ereshkigal rested against his shoulders. For a moment, everything was quiet—just the three of them, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Ereshkigal's eyes shimmered with emotion as she took a deep breath. Her usual stoic demeanor faltered for just a moment, revealing her vulnerable side. "Thank you, Ritsuka… for believing in me. For trusting in my Spirit Origin. I... never thought I would be here, with you, like this."
She hesitated before reaching out, her hands trembling slightly, but Ritsuka caught them in his, offering a reassuring smile. "You're not just my protector. You're part of my family, Eresh. And I'll always be here for you."
Her golden eyes met his beautiful blue eyes, and before she could retreat into her usual bashful self, Ritsuka leaned in and kissed her, his lips gentle against hers. Ereshkigal stiffened at first, her cheeks burning bright red, but she quickly melted into the kiss, her heart racing. It was a quiet, tender moment—one that expressed all the words she couldn't bring herself to say. When they pulled apart, her face was flushed, and she fumbled awkwardly, trying to regain her composure.
"S-So... embarrassing... in front of Karen," she muttered, looking down at her hands in flustered frustration. But when she looked up again, her smile was as bright as the sunset behind her.
**Back to the Apartment**
After the peaceful sunset, Ritsuka teleported them back to his apartment. The day had been long and fulfilling, and Karen was fast asleep in his arms as they entered the living room. Morgan was already waiting for them, and Ereshkigal, with a gentle smile, took Karen from Ritsuka's arms.
"I'll put her to bed," she said softly, her earlier shyness now replaced with quiet contentment. "She's had a full day."
Ritsuka watched as Ereshkigal disappeared into the hallway with Karen in her arms, feeling warmth spread through his chest. He was grateful to have them both in his life, and the joy of today was something he would carry with him forever.
But just as he was about to relax, his phone buzzed in his pocket. He frowned, pulling it out. The caller ID read *Nick Fury*. A sudden tension filled the air.
"Fury," Ritsuka muttered under his breath as he answered the call. "What's going on?"
Fury's voice, as usual, was blunt and urgent. "We need to talk. Something's come up, and it's big. Get your ass here, buddy."
Ritsuka sighed, glancing toward the hallway where Ereshkigal had gone. He'd have to deal with this sooner than he wanted.
Ritsuka appeared in Nick Fury's office, the familiar sensation of teleportation leaving him slightly disoriented for a second. The first thing he noticed was the tense atmosphere. Fury was sitting behind his desk, his one good eye focused on a tablet. Maria Hill stood nearby, arms crossed, with her usual unreadable expression.
Ritsuka casually walked over, raising an eyebrow. "What's up, Director? You look like someone just stole your coffee.."
Fury's expression didn't change. Instead, he handed Ritsuka a folder. "We've got a situation. Something crashed on Earth a couple of months back."
Ritsuka flipped open the folder and stared at the images. A crater. In the middle of it, a large, rather familiar hammer.
Ritsuka kept his face neutral, though his mind raced. Mjölnir. Thor's hammer. But of course, he didn't say that. So Thor will come to earth in few days or he already did.
Fury leaned back in his chair, folding his arms. "Coulson's been on it. No one can lift it. No machinery, no human, nothing. That's what you call abnormal, or what I prefer to call, magic crap."
Ritsuka chuckled. "Magic crap? Atleast give some good name instead of crap"
Fury's eye narrowed. "I'm not. You know that. But I remember a you telling me to look out for anything god-related. So when I see an ugly hammer with weird symbols that no one can left, I start thinking this isn't your everyday junk. What do you make of it?"
Ritsuka kept his expression casual, trying not to give anything away. He couldn't exactly tell Fury about Thor yet, not when Thor hadn't even gotten his act together. "I don't know much, but it's definitely connected to something old. Something… Norse."
"Norse? So we're talking gods?" Fury asked, his tone skeptical but knowing Ritsuka wouldn't joke about something like this.
Ritsuka nodded slightly, carefully choosing his words. "It could be connected to Asgardians. Ancient mythology and all that. But I'd need to look into it more before making any solid conclusions. I met and made few friends from that place in my world"
Fury studied Ritsuka's face, searching for more information, but Ritsuka wasn't giving any. After a moment, Fury sighed. "Right. So, we've got a god hammer sitting in a hole, and it might have something to do with those Norse stories. I don't care for mythological crap, but I do care about this being a potential problem. Think you can handle it?"
Ritsuka shrugged, smiling. "Well, technically, that's SHIELD's job, isn't it? You've got a whole team of agents ready for this kind of thing."
Fury leaned forward, his gaze sharp.
"I'm too old for this divine shit, Fujimaru. You've got experience with gods. Besides, you already dealt with worse. And, let's not forget," he pointed at Ritsuka, "you've got a scary god-like gramps in your shadow. So I'm assigning this to you."
Ritsuka laughed, shaking his head. "Oh, I see how it is. You're passing the magic hammer problem onto me."
Fury leaned back with a smirk. "Exactly. And I've already given the order. Tomorrow morning, you will go to Puente Antiguo town and meet Coulson for more intel. Find about this hammer matter as fast as you can. You're on this, whether you like it or not."
Ritsuka sighed but couldn't help smiling at the absurdity of it all.
"Well, Director, looks like you've roped me in. My first official mission from SHIELD. Guess I'm honored."
"Yeah, yeah, take care this hammer for me," Fury replied, clearly amused despite himself.
With a salute, Ritsuka teleported out of the office, keeping his thoughts about Thor to himself.
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Note: next thor arc will start and few male servants will appear in this arc.