Solomon in Marvel

Under her father's influence, Stephanie Malick became a devout believer in HYDRA's twisted faith. Although she wanted to refute Solomon's words, the immediate threat of death looming over the Malick family kept her silent. Solomon glanced at her thoughtfully. He had encountered fanatical cultists before—particularly those ensnared in an informational bubble where no external perspectives could penetrate.

Questions like "What exactly is a god?" or "Why do we worship it?" were never contemplated within such closed belief systems. Especially in HYDRA's case, with its gothic, dark religious themes emphasizing ancient rites and sacrificial rituals, the cult fostered a sense of martyrdom and a self-righteous elevation.

It was not unlike those who worshipped demons, Dormammu, Chthon, or other dark entities—a perfect refuge for angst-ridden youths with nowhere to channel their discontent.

Gideon Malick, however, saw through the sham of HYDRA's religion.

The ancient sacrificial rituals sustained by the Malick family were nothing more than a tool to maintain their faction's control. Faith or lack thereof made no difference. The supposed "lot-drawing" to select a martyr could easily be rigged. Gideon had always assumed his daughter would be pragmatic enough to see through the lies as he had. Yet, spoiled by a life of privilege and disconnected from HYDRA's operations, Stephanie had become a true believer. Despite her Ivy League education, nearing her thirties, she had neither engaged in any real work nor experienced the kind of personal fulfillment that would anchor her to reality. HYDRA's doctrine filled that void.

"Before human civilization rose, aliens visited Earth," Solomon began. "You've probably heard of their race—perhaps even seen them. Dr. Whitehall once discovered a Kree corpse. That body is now in S.H.I.E.L.D.'s custody, part of a project called TAHITI. You might have come across the name during your time with the World Security Council."

Solomon placed his empty glass on the table. "So, the so-called god that HYDRA reveres? It's just a Kree bioweapon—cannon fodder on an alien battlefield."

The harsh truth struck hard, though Solomon showed no sympathy for the Malicks' shock.

"My organization has been eradicating cults that worship dark gods for thousands of years. The only reason HYDRA has survived this long is because you're worshiping nothing more than a many-limbed mutant. A useless abomination." He chuckled, the malice in his voice barely concealed. "Religion is a civilization built upon lies. HYDRA is an organization founded on such lies. Of course, you might question everything I'm telling you because it contradicts the self-serving, blood-soaked, gothic myths passed down in your family."

"But that's fine. Even without your magic stone, I could still send you to meet your god," Solomon teased, winking at Stephanie.

Gideon tensed visibly. He loved his daughter dearly. After the early death of his wife, all his affection had gone to Stephanie, but his indulgence had deprived her of worldly wisdom.

"Don't be alarmed. I know more than you think," Solomon continued, his tone mocking. "Your secrets are insignificant to me. So, shall we try it out? I promise you'll return safely—and I won't reveal your little deceptions to your daughter."

Gideon's hand trembled as he drained his glass. Solomon's words pierced his deepest fears. The mysterious stranger knew about the rigged sacrificial rites—his most closely guarded secret. Ignoring his daughter's questioning gaze, Gideon finally spoke.

"What do you want? Money? Power?" he asked dejectedly. "With abilities like yours, aren't those things already within reach?"

"I want people," Solomon said simply, communicating telepathically with Dina. She nodded and left the room, shutting the door behind her.

"I want HYDRA," Solomon declared. "You have agents embedded across various industries. I need professionals to fill the ranks of my organization. Perhaps you think this is another Operation Paperclip scenario, but I assure you—it's far more."

The walls of the study suddenly shifted. An oil painting rotated around an invisible axis, expanding outward as furniture and flooring folded and twisted into kaleidoscopic geometric patterns. The room stretched impossibly, defying the limits of physical space. Gideon Malick grabbed his daughter's hand, seeking stable ground amidst the chaos. Solomon's chair rose higher like a judge's bench towering over a courtroom.

"I told you—it's magic," Solomon's voice echoed like thunder. His face remained obscured, hidden behind the colossal desk. "And I also told you—I'll take you to meet your god."

"Who are you?!" Gideon demanded.

A brilliant golden sword descended from above, embedding itself in the floor before him. Gideon recognized it immediately from intelligence reports on the Battle of New York. It belonged to the man who had annihilated the alien fleet and seized the nuclear warhead.

The sight of the sword shattered any remaining delusions.

"I submit!" Gideon shouted, panic overtaking him. "I'll transfer all my power to you—just spare us!"

Even Stephanie was stunned by how quickly her father abandoned his faith, though under the circumstances, she could hardly blame him. She was doing well just to remain standing.

"Submit, and you will be rewarded!" Solomon proclaimed.

"How should I address you, My Lord?" Gideon Malick asked, his voice still shaky as he sipped from his glass. Beside him, Stephanie sat quietly, her hand clammy in his. "And what is our objective?"

"Call me whatever you like, or use my mortal name," Solomon replied casually. "I'm pleased you've renounced that parasite—and you should, too, Stephanie. As for my goal, it's simple: to elevate humanity to the pinnacle of the universe."

He handed them both contracts—lavish offers promising youth, beauty, and a lifespan extended by two centuries, provided they remained loyal to him.

"This bloodline contract will remain valid as long as any member of the Malick family lives," Solomon explained. Pouring himself another drink, he added, "I need you to arrange meetings with other HYDRA leaders. Avoid John Garrett, Alexander Pierce, and Dr. Whitehall—they're finished."

"The Malick family is yours," Gideon said humbly, signing the contract. "What would you have us do next?"

"I need scientists—lots of them," Solomon replied. He summoned a female operative clad in power armor to oversee communication between the Malick family and his organization. "Stephanie needs to broaden her horizons beyond Earth. I'll take her to my base—and perhaps to kill a few aliens."

Gideon understood the message clearly. Solomon didn't trust them. The armored figure standing before him was a constant reminder of that.

"From now on, this estate's trophies won't be mere animals," Solomon said with a smirk. "Alien heads will better showcase your family's legacy—don't you think?"

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