- In Marvel: I Start by Marrying Scarlett Witch [Complete]
- MWM Chapter 30
“Obadiah, you dare … you, What are you?” Tony’s initial anger turned to confusion as he saw “Obadiah” lift a chair and smash the surveillance camera in the corner, completely destroying it. But the most shocking part was yet to come: Obadiah’s appearance started to change, and he transformed into someone else entirely.
Dr. Yinsen, who had been baffled by the situation, also widened his eyes at this incredible sight.
“Nice to meet you both. My name is Leo Chen, but you can call me Leo,” Leo said, turning to Tony and Yinsen with a smile after disabling the room’s only surveillance.
“Shall we sit down and talk?”
Tony and Yinsen exchanged glances and silently nodded. Their current situation was already dire, and this mysterious person with extraordinary abilities at least didn’t seem to be allied with the terrorists.
“Let me start by explaining my situation so you can understand,” Leo began as they settled into a corner of the room not visible from the iron door.
“Two weeks ago, my men discovered something interesting while investigating Mr. Obadiah Stane. The investigation stemmed from a small grudge between him and my subordinates. But that’s not important. The important part is that this interesting detail involves the famous kidnapped Tony Stark—namely, you.”
By now, you must have guessed that the mastermind behind your kidnapping is your fellow Stark Industries shareholder, Obadiah Stane. So, I had my men ‘invite’ Obadiah over for a friendly chat, obtained some intelligence, and used my abilities to come here disguised as him.”
“So, you’re here to rescue me?” Tony asked, still maintaining his composure.
Two weeks of struggling between life and death had transformed Tony Stark from a frivolous playboy into a much more mature and composed man. He sensed there might be some truth in Leo’s words, but he remained wary. The idea that someone would risk coming here alone to rescue him, a stranger, seemed too good to be true. Plus, Leo’s mention of special abilities indicated he was no ordinary person.
“You could say that, but ultimately, the decision to rescue you is yours,” Leo replied, raising an eyebrow at Tony’s calm demeanor.
His mission was to rescue Dr. Yinsen and eliminate Raza and his base. Tony Stark was not part of the mission, though he intended to rescue him as well. After all, his unexpected interference had already changed many things. If Iron Man, a core Avenger, were to die, it would disrupt the future he knew. It was better to keep events as close to the original path as possible.
But he wouldn’t rescue Tony for free. Asking for reasonable compensation was more sensible and would prevent suspicion.
“Mr. Leo, what’s the catch?” Tony asked, raising his head.
As a high-IQ genius, Tony could read between the lines and understand the implications.
Leo raised his thumb toward Tony. “I’ve started a new company in New York. However, as a newcomer, we’re facing some challenges. I hope you can help us in the future. Also, our production machines need some improvements. If you have time, your expertise would be invaluable.”
Although he rarely handled company affairs directly, he was aware of the general situation. Despite Jack’s competent management, New York’s complex network posed significant challenges. Stark Industries, with its deep-rooted influence, could provide crucial support.
“Is that all?” Tony was taken aback.
He had expected a much higher demand, something more life-threatening. Helping with company issues seemed surprisingly simple.
“Why not work with Obadiah then? I’m sure he would agree to such terms,” Tony questioned.
“I’m a legitimate businessman with a conscience. My medicines are meant to save lives, unlike Obadiah, who sells weapons to terrorists for profit. I despise people like him, and he’s not trustworthy. He might retaliate against me later. Not worth the risk,” Leo replied, spreading his hands before turning to Dr. Yinsen.
“And you must be Dr. Yinsen. I’ve heard from the Ten Rings leader that you’re skilled in medicine. You saved Mr. Stark when they thought he was beyond help. Would you consider working at my company? I assure you the pay and conditions will be satisfactory.”
“Uh… If we make it out alive and your company is as you say, I’ll consider it,” Dr. Yinsen replied, caught off guard but intrigued.
Tony, touching the arc reactor on his chest, said, “I always thought my weapons were for protecting the nation, defending the innocent. But they’ve been used to kill innocents. I’m no better than Obadiah.”
“You’re different. You didn’t know before. Now, you can change things. It’s not too late,” Yinsen encouraged, patting Tony on the shoulder.
Despite their short acquaintance, Yinsen could see Tony’s inner goodness. If Tony survived, his influence could greatly benefit the world. That’s why Yinsen, upon seeing the maker of the weapons that killed his family, chose to guide rather than hate him.
“You’re right. I can’t die here. I need to make amends for my mistakes,” Tony resolved, turning to Leo.
“Mr. Li, what’s your plan for getting us out safely? Do you have a tracker on you? Or have your men surrounded the valley? How can we assist in your plan?”
“Hmm, I was searched and couldn’t bring a tracker. I was blindfolded and don’t know the exact location. My men are waiting at a hotel in the province. I came alone,” Leo explained, spreading his hands.