MARVEL: THOSE YEARS I WAS UNDERCOVER IN S.H.I.E.LD

"That's how it is, obviously—I was set up."

Watching Nick Fury on the screen, Grimclaw spread his hands and laughed.

"So, what's your plan? Need me to bail you out?"

After listening to Grimclaw explain the situation, Nick Fury leaned back in his chair and asked.

"No, I'll handle it myself."

Facing Fury's question, Grimclaw shook his head. "You know me, Nick. I'm not some kid who runs to an adult every time things go south."

"If he wants to set me up, then he'd better be ready for my revenge."

"I don't care who he is or what position he holds—this won't end just like that."

"I'm only telling you about this so you're aware. Nothing more."

Hearing this, Nick Fury fell into thought for a moment before nodding. "Steven Mond hasn't breathed a word of this to me yet."

"That just proves he really is trying to screw you over. But Grim, sacrificing the lives of hundreds of thousands—maybe even millions—just to set you up? This isn't just about you anymore."

"If this were just about power struggles, fine. You want to move up? Go for it. Within S.H.I.E.L.D., I wouldn't mind seeing that kind of thing happen."

"After all, without competition, how would S.H.I.E.L.D. ever improve? It's good for you, me, and everyone."

"But this time, he crossed the line."

Before Fury could finish, Grimclaw cut him off with a smile.

"Nick, leave it to me."

"You know what I'm capable of—I'll take care of it. But I need a team. Give me some people from the New York S.H.I.E.L.D. branch, those who came out of Eagle's Nest like me. People I can trust completely."

Seeing how determined Grimclaw was, Fury fell silent for a moment. Finally, he nodded.

"Alright. Since you already have a plan, I'll leave it to you."

"After all, out of everyone I trust in S.H.I.E.L.D., you're in the top two. I believe you'll handle this right."

"Thanks."

After thanking Fury, Grimclaw changed the subject. "Alright, let's move on."

"I've already investigated everything on Tony Stark's case."

"The one behind his kidnapping is Obadiah Stane, the executive director of Stark Industries."

"I'll send you the evidence."

Hearing Grimclaw mention this, Fury nodded and turned to Maria Hill, who was standing beside him.

"See? This is someone I personally trained."

"Phil Coulson has been on this case for over two weeks with no progress. But Grim took over the New York S.H.I.E.L.D. branch and, in less than two days, he's already found the culprit and even gathered evidence."

"So…"

Before Fury could finish, Hill interrupted, "I already know what Grim is capable of. That's why I'm not surprised he solved this in just two days."

Hearing this, Fury shook his head. Classic Hill—always cold.

"I suggest we let Tony Stark handle this himself."

Turning back to Grimclaw on the screen, Fury thought for a moment and continued, "Since you've confirmed Obadiah Stane is behind this…"

"Then you should also know how Tony feels about him. He sees Stane as family."

"If we handle this ourselves, Tony won't say anything—but it'll definitely leave a scar."

"Tony isn't like everyone else, Grim. You know what I mean."

Seeing the seriousness in Fury's expression, Grimclaw nodded.

"Don't worry, Nick. I know what to do."

After ending the video call, Grimclaw shut his laptop and turned to Natasha Romanoff, who was sitting across from him.

"Nat, sorry, but you'll have to handle the black market intel for me."

"At least until my team from Eagle's Nest arrives."

Seeing how serious he was, Black Widow nodded while casually chewing gum.

"No problem. I was hoping for a vacation, but if I don't help you, who else will?"

"Want me to call Clint too? You know he'd be happy to help both of us."

"Clint?"

Grimclaw thought about it for a moment before slowly shaking his head.

"No, forget it. Laura just gave birth to their daughter. Let him enjoy being a father for now."

"Fair enough."

Hearing his answer, Natasha got up from her chair.

"No point in waiting. The sooner I hit the black market, the easier this will be."

"Thanks, Nat."

As she was about to leave, Grimclaw spoke softly.

"Grim, you…" Natasha stopped and gave him a sly smile.

"You tricked me once before—and you kept it up for years. By the way, when I get back, I'm setting you up with someone."

Winking at him, she turned and walked away.

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