Chessboard and Switching the Board

In a concealed safe house somewhere in New York, thick bulletproof glass shut out every sound from the outside world.

Alexander Pierce stood before a round table formed from holographic projections. Several blurred figures appeared on the surrounding screens—their faces deliberately distorted by streams of data, their voices electronically altered, yet the chill they exuded could not be concealed.

"The Arbitrators' appearance has disrupted our plans," one hoarse voice said first. "Not only did they stop Abomination's rampage, they also completely exposed General Ross's Super Soldier Program to the public."

Pierce lightly tapped the tabletop, his gaze profound. "Fury has already begun to suspect something. He pulled up the lab's encrypted footage. While there's no direct evidence pointing to us for now, if this continues, the risk will only grow."

"That Asian man—Chen Tian," another low voice said. "His records are practically blank. There isn't a single record of him in S.H.I.E.L.D.'s database. It's as if he appeared out of thin air."

"And that white-haired girl," the third silhouette added. "Her combat data far exceeded expectations. She may be the strongest among the Arbitrators."

Pierce gave a cold laugh. "So, you're afraid?"

The room fell into brief silence.

"We are not afraid," the first voice said slowly. "We are merely assessing the risks. The Arbitrators' emergence has forced many of our plans into temporary stagnation. If Fury persuades the World Security Council, all our preparations will face tremendous obstacles."

Pierce's gaze swept over every screen, and a cold curve formed at his lips. "Then make them too busy to worry about us."

"What do you mean?"

"Stir up internal division." Pierce's voice was like a snake flicking its tongue. "Tony Stark is arrogant and conceited. Natasha Romanoff is highly vigilant. Bruce Banner is emotionally unstable. And Chen Tian... he seems particularly sensitive about certain things."

"You want to break them apart from within?"

"Not entirely." Pierce gently shook his head. "We need a more ingenious chess piece—Captain America."

The silhouettes on the screens shifted slightly, seemingly surprised by the suggestion.

"Rogers?"

"That's right." Pierce smiled. "Fury's previous Avengers Initiative was meant to make Rogers the leader. Tony rejected the Avengers and formed the Arbitrators instead. If we persuade Fury to make Rogers the Arbitrators' leader, then use his prestige and personal charisma, Stark will certainly clash with Rogers. Their personalities are complete opposites, after all. Do you think Stark would let Rogers become the Arbitrators' leader?"

"Stark will not accept it."

"Of course he won't." Pierce's voice carried a trace of amusement. "Their personalities ensure they'll find it difficult to respect each other. Once they work together, they may not clash immediately, but..."

"And then?"

"Then our 'Winter Soldier' will need to make an appearance." Pierce traced a cold line across the table with his finger. "Let Rogers recognize his old friend. Let Stark question Rogers's loyalties. Let the Arbitrators tear each other apart amid the chaos."

The figures on the screens fell silent for a moment before low voices of agreement came through. "This is more effective than direct confrontation."

Pierce smiled faintly, took a data chip from his coat, and gently placed it on the table. "The Winter Soldier is ready."

The temperature in the room seemed to plummet.

"You're deploying him now?"

"When necessary, yes." Pierce's voice was terrifyingly calm. "But before that, we need Rogers to join the Arbitrators and become Fury's 'gesture of goodwill.'"

"Will Fury agree?"

"He will." Pierce sneered. "He is more worried than we are about those uncontrollable superheroes, and I will make him believe this is the best way to control the Arbitrators."

"Everyone has a weakness," Pierce said softly. "Stark's pride, Rogers's sense of justice, Chen Tian's unpredictability... all we have to do is find it, then give it a gentle push."

The silhouettes on the screens gradually faded, leaving behind one final whisper:

"Hail Hydra."

Darkness once again swallowed the room. Only the indicator light on the data chip flickered faintly, like a serpent's pupil silently watching the coming storm.

One week after the Battle of Harlem.

Malibu Coast.

Morning light pierced the thin mist and spilled across the silver giant tower of Arbitrator Tower, making it gleam with a cold metallic sheen beneath the rising sun. Nanobots still flowed across the building's surface, their faint hum drowned out by the wind high above, leaving behind an almost sacred silence.

Chen Tian sat cross-legged on the rooftop, loosely dressed in pajamas. The Patrick Star pattern on them wore a stupid grin. Tony had given him the set, saying it matched his SpongeBob SquarePants pajamas and could prove their friendship.

Speaking of that, Yinsen had to be mentioned. Yes, that Yinsen who had not appeared in a long time. He had previously joined Stark Industries and successfully become the head of its medical technology research and development division.

But now, Tony had snatched him away from Pepper under the excuse that "the Arbitrators need an outstanding doctor and logistics expert." He now lived on the eighty-eighth floor of Arbitrator Tower.

(The top floor belonged to Tony, while the floor beneath it belonged to Chen Tian. Tony's floor was also used for meetings and parties, but for everyday living, he still preferred Malibu Villa because Pepper liked it there.)

The sea breeze made Chen Tian's black hair sway slightly. He slowly opened his eyes and sighed.

"Nothing again..." he muttered, scratching his hair in frustration. "Ever since I drew Satoru Gojo's abilities, has this damn summoning system drained away all my luck?"

The corners of 2B's lips lifted slightly. She reached out and gently helped Chen Tian up. "The last time Master went fifty-seven consecutive days without summoning anything, you nearly tore apart Stark's new yacht again."

Chen Tian curled his lips. "My luck has always been terrible. 2B, do you think I should go see The Ancient—" He suddenly stopped because abnormal streams of data were flickering through 2B's pupils.

"Master," 2B said as she leaned close to Chen Tian's ear, "Stark is receiving four visitors in the top-floor reception room." Her fingertip drew a holographic projection in the air. The surveillance footage showed Tony holding a martini, seated opposite—

"Director Fury, Captain America, Agent Hill, and..." Chen Tian's gaze landed on the final figure. "Alexander Pierce..."

Chen Tian's gaze lingered on Pierce's image for a moment, and a meaningful smile slowly curled across his lips. "Looks like Hydra can't sit still anymore..." he murmured, unconsciously rubbing his chin.

The data streams in 2B's pupils flickered faster. "Master, they are discussing a demand that the Arbitrators accept World Security Council oversight. Pierce proposed that if the Arbitrators refuse the World Security Council's supervision, Captain America must join the Arbitrators to 'ensure the team complies with international standards.'"

Chen Tian nearly laughed out loud. "Ha! Bringing Rogers in? That's a vicious move."

Just then, Tony's exaggerated voice suddenly came through the communicator. "—Everyone, allow me to correct something. The Arbitrators currently have two leaders! One is me, Tony Stark, and the other is..." He deliberately dragged out the pause. "Chen Tian! Chen, stop hiding and come down to meet our 'distinguished guests'!"

Chen Tian raised a brow and helplessly shrugged at 2B. "Looks like our little Tony has run into some trouble." 2B tilted her head, her silver hair swaying slightly. "Master, do you need me to accompany you?"

"No. Help me contact Ancient One and ask whether exposing Serpent S.H.I.E.L.D. ahead of time would have any consequences." Chen Tian looked down at his pajamas, Patrick Star's smiling face looking especially ridiculous on his chest. "I'll go meet those important people who want to find us a 'new boss.'"

Chen Tian entered the elevator. From its ceiling, mechanical arms lowered a dark gray hoodie and fitted jeans. Chen Tian put them on, changing out of his ridiculous Patrick Star pajamas.

2B's projection appeared beside him. "Master, Ancient One replied—'The timeline is stable enough. What is meant to come will come.'"

"Ha, that old fox is still as cryptic as ever." Chen Tian curled his lips.

The elevator shot downward. Through the glass exterior wall, the entire morning view of Malibu Coast stretched before them. When the elevator stopped at the top floor, Chen Tian walked out lazily with his hands in his pockets.

The reception room doors slid open automatically. The moment he stepped inside, he heard Tony's signature exaggerated tone.

"—So your Avengers Initiative is finding a ninety-year-old frozen popsicle to be a babysitter? Come on, Nick, even kindergarten teachers need certifications these days!"

Chen Tian could not help laughing, instantly drawing everyone's attention. Fury's one eye narrowed slightly, Pierce kept his politician's smile, while Captain America—Steve Rogers—furrowed his brows.

"Sorry to interrupt, everyone." Chen Tian slowly walked to Tony's side and casually took a cup of coffee from a serving robot. "Did I miss anything exciting? Like... the World Security Council wanting to find us a guardian?"

Tony dramatically threw an arm around Chen Tian's shoulders. "Look! Our other leader has arrived!" He turned to Pierce. "Allow me to introduce Chen Tian, co-founder of the Arbitrators, and—" He lowered his voice. "The only guy who can tolerate me throwing parties for three days and nights straight."

Pierce smiled and held out his hand. "I have heard much about you, Mr. Chen. Your... special abilities left a deep impression on us."

Chen Tian did not shake his hand immediately. He first took a sip of coffee, then lazily shook it. "Thanks, but I'm guessing you didn't come all this way just to compliment me?"

Fury snorted. "Let's be direct. The Arbitrators must accept oversight. Either sign an agreement and accept World Security Council supervision, or—"

"Or let Captain America join you." Pierce smoothly took over. "As... a bridge between the international community and superpowered individuals."

The reception room suddenly fell silent. Chen Tian and Tony exchanged a glance, and the latter dramatically spread his hands. "Wow, that suggestion is so... touchingly outdated."

Steve finally spoke, his voice steady. "Stark, this is not a joke. Your reckless fighting and arrogant personality can easily endanger innocent people."

Tony's brows instantly tightened, and a mocking curve appeared at his lips. "Wow, moral lectures from the last century—"

He dramatically raised a hand in a stop gesture. "Allow me to interrupt, Captain Rogers. Are you about to start that classic 'back in World War II' speech? Do you need me to pull up a holographic projection for a backdrop?"

A trace of displeasure flashed through Steve's blue eyes, but his voice remained even. "Stark, this is not a joke. Your father Howard back then—"

"Don't you fucking mention my father!" Tony suddenly roared. The martini glass in his hand smashed against the marble floor with a crack, amber liquor splashing onto Steve's gleaming military boots. "What gives you the right to judge me with his antique moral standards? Howard Stark spent his entire life failing to replicate your serum. Do you know why?"

He suddenly leaned close to Steve, while a faint glow of flowing nanotech appeared around his wrist. "Because he was too obsessed with the myth of Captain America!"

The air in the reception room instantly froze. Hill's hand was already resting on her sidearm, while a flash of triumphant delight crossed Pierce's eyes. Without making a sound, Chen Tian shifted half a step closer to Tony, one of his eyes already transformed into the Heavenly Eye.

Steve took a deep breath. "Tony, I understand how you feel—"

"No, you don't." Tony sneered as he stepped back, suddenly switching to an exaggerated theatrical tone. "Let Captain America tell everyone how, in 1945, he flew a plane loaded with nuclear bombs straight into the ice—what a heroic self-sacrifice!"

He abruptly tore open his shirt collar, revealing the reactor scar on his chest. "Do you know what this is? Modern-day self-sacrifice! Except I didn't freeze myself into a popsicle. I built a suit of armor and kept saving the world!"

Pierce interjected at just the right moment. "Gentlemen, today's agenda is—"

Just as the tension in the reception room reached its peak, Chen Tian suddenly gave a light cough. That tiny sound was like pressing a pause button, and everyone's gaze involuntarily turned toward him.

Tony's rising fury was interrupted by that cough. He turned to Chen Tian, and the anger in his eyes gradually gave way to confusion. Chen Tian met his gaze. A familiar unspoken understanding flickered in those azure eyes—trust that existed only between best friends.

"Tony," Chen Tian said softly, "let me handle this."

Tony opened his mouth to argue, but when he saw the certainty in Chen Tian's eyes, his shoulders relaxed slightly. He curled his lips and reluctantly leaned back against the sofa, though his gaze still warily swept across the four people opposite them.

Chen Tian turned to Fury and Pierce, a faint smile on his lips. "Since everyone is so concerned about the Arbitrators' 'compliance,' then fine—" He paused, his gaze meaningfully lingering on Pierce's face for a second. "We welcome Captain Rogers to join us."

The reception room instantly became quiet enough to hear a pin drop.

Tony abruptly sat upright. "Wait, are you serious?" Yet his questioning tone no longer carried the earlier hostility. Instead, it held a hint of seeking confirmation.

Chen Tian did not answer directly. He merely nodded lightly at Tony. That simple gesture seemed to convey something only the two of them understood. Tony's furrowed brows gradually eased. Though his expression remained displeased, he no longer objected.

Fury's one eye narrowed slightly. He clearly had not expected Chen Tian to agree so readily, much less that Tony would accept it so easily. Pierce's smile deepened, and he gave a slight nod. "A wise decision, Mr. Chen."

Steve's expression was somewhat complicated as he looked at Chen Tian. "Thank you for your trust, but I need to make one thing clear—if I join, what will my responsibilities be?"

Chen Tian shrugged. "The same as now. Fight threats and protect the innocent. Only..." He paused, the smile at his lips deepening. "You will act with us rather than being remotely controlled by S.H.I.E.L.D. or the World Security Council."

Pierce frowned slightly. "I'm afraid that does not meet—"

"—Does not meet your expectations?" Chen Tian directly cut him off, his gaze suddenly sharp. "Mr. Pierce, Captain Rogers joining the Arbitrators does not mean the Arbitrators will accept orders from any outside force. That is non-negotiable."

His tone remained calm, but the temperature in the reception room seemed to plummet.

Fury stared at Chen Tian for several seconds, then suddenly gave a cold laugh. "Interesting. Stark, your 'partner' is much better at negotiating than you are."

Tony rolled his eyes. "That's because a bunch of bureaucrats haven't pointed at him and called him 'your dad's failed product.'" Though his mouth remained unforgiving, his body language had relaxed. He even casually picked up the coffee on the table and took a sip.

Steve took a deep breath and looked at Chen Tian. "If this is your decision, I am willing to try working together."

Chen Tian nodded, suddenly flashing a bright smile. "Welcome aboard, Captain." He turned to Pierce. His smile remained unchanged, but his eyes were cold as blades. "As for everyone at the World Security Council... are you satisfied now?"

Pierce maintained his perfect politician's smile. "Of course. This is a very good start."

But Chen Tian was no longer looking at him. Instead, he patted Tony on the shoulder. "Come on, genius. We should arrange a room for our new teammate."

Tony stood up. As he passed Pierce, he lowered his voice and tossed out a sentence. "Tell those old men the Arbitrators are not their toys."

Pierce's expression did not change. He merely watched the two leave. After the reception room doors closed, Agent Hill asked softly, "Sir, are we really just letting them..."

Fury raised a hand to stop her. Thoughtfulness flickered in his one eye. "Observe first."

Pierce, however, lowered his head slightly, concealing the flash of coldness in his eyes.

The plan had only just begun.

Tony grabbed Chen Tian by the hood of his sweatshirt and dragged him into the elevator. The instant the metal doors closed, he threw an arm around Chen Tian's neck. Nanotech armor instantly covered his right arm. "You'd better explain why you suddenly agreed to let that old popsicle join!"

Chen Tian's eyes rolled from being choked, yet he smiled like a child whose prank had succeeded. "Cough, cough... let go... your reaction is even bigger than I expected..."

Tony released him, but his faceplate remained open and his repulsor glowed with a dim blue light. "You have three seconds."

"Alright, alright." Chen Tian rubbed his neck and straightened up, then suddenly lowered his voice. "Remember those encrypted files 2B found after hacking into S.H.I.E.L.D.'s database last week?"

Tony narrowed his eyes. "Those traces showing Hydra had infiltrated them?"

Chen Tian smiled. Rather than answering Tony's question, he asked one of his own. "Tony, do you want to watch S.H.I.E.L.D. collapse?"