Chapter 26: The Arc Reactor Revelation

As Ethan delved deeper into his research at Stark Industries, he found himself consumed by the endless possibilities of the advanced energy source he was developing. With each breakthrough, he grew more confident in its potential to revolutionize technology and change the world for the better.

One evening, as he worked tirelessly in his lab, Ethan couldn't shake the feeling that there was something missing—a key component that would unlock the true power of his creation. With a determined gleam in his eye, he set to work, pouring over schematics and equations in search of the missing piece of the puzzle.

Suddenly, inspiration struck like a bolt of lightning, illuminating the path forward. Ethan's fingers flew across the keyboard as he made the final adjustments to his design, a sense of exhilaration coursing through him as he realized the full extent of what he had accomplished.

"This is it," he murmured to himself, a triumphant smile spreading across his face. "This is the future."

But as Ethan reveled in his success, a sudden sense of unease washed over him. He glanced at Tony Stark's arc reactor, a constant reminder of the life-saving technology that had brought him to this moment.

"With this, we could change everything," Ethan mused aloud, more to himself than to anyone else.

Tony, who had been engrossed in his own work nearby, looked up with a curious expression. "What's that, Ethan? You've got that look in your eye again."

Ethan turned to face Tony, his excitement palpable. "I've just had a breakthrough," he explained eagerly. "With this new energy source, we could create a replacement for your arc reactor. Something safer, more efficient."

Tony's eyes widened with interest as he absorbed Ethan's words. "Well, I'll be damned," he said, a grin spreading across his face. "Looks like you're about to become my new favorite person, Ethan."

Meanwhile, Natasha Romanoff received a cryptic call from Agent Coulson, her expression betraying no hint of emotion as she listened to his urgent message. Without a word, she slipped away from Stark Industries, her mind already racing with the implications of Coulson's request.

"Agent Romanoff," Coulson's voice crackled through the line, "we have a situation. I need you to locate Dr. Bruce Banner. Fury wants him here, ASAP." after pausing for a bit he continues, "Barton has been compromised."

Natasha nodded curtly, her mind already calculating the next steps. "Understood," she replied, her voice cool and composed. "I'm on it."

As she made her way to her destination, Natasha couldn't shake the feeling that she was being watched. Soon she arrives in the city of Kolkata, India.

"Something doesn't feel right about this," Natasha muttered to herself as she navigated the bustling streets of the city.