Using his ability to manipulate atoms, Zod created a new super metal—one far stronger than any material on Earth, including vibranium and kryptonite alloys. By controlling the atomic structure, Zod was able to design this metal with properties and performance beyond that of any known element. Even a sheet just one millimeter thick was capable of containing the Hulk.
To test its limits, Zod brought in Bronsky, who had transformed into the Abomination. No matter how hard Bronsky struck the super metal, he couldn't even dent it. Zod, watching the struggle, quipped, "I doubt even Thanos could break through this."
Zod was confident that only someone like Molecule Man, with his ability to accelerate molecular motion, could disrupt this metal. The compression of atoms, under the influence of electromagnetic forces, meant that the super metal had no natural vulnerabilities to physical, energetic, or spatial attacks. Even another master of electromagnetic manipulation would find it nearly impossible to disintegrate.
Beyond this super metal, Zod had unlocked even greater powers, including immortality. His mastery over electromagnetic fields meant he could manipulate his atomic structure to prevent aging, regenerate from a single atom, and even control the Earth's magnetic field. He could, theoretically, cause a catastrophic event like a "moonfall" if he desired. His abilities now allowed him to erase all life from the Earth's surface if he wished.
Bronsky couldn't help but notice how much Zod had changed. The man had always been driven, but now there was a darker, more dangerous edge to him.
"Zod, there's a consortium boss who wants to meet you," Uuld said, her expression grim.
She had reason to be concerned. Blade Technology Industries, Zod's company, thrived on cutting-edge technology, but it was far smaller than the financial behemoths that controlled the American economy. Unlike Zod, who operated on the strength of his inventions, these conglomerates used their vast capital to exert influence. If pushed too hard, Zod could abandon the U.S. entirely, but that would leave Blade Tech vulnerable.
Zod's advancements had made him untouchable, especially with his nanobot-powered Dark Knight armor. It was speculated to have the combat effectiveness of three entire armored divisions. Even the researchers studying it couldn't fully comprehend its capabilities. If pushed, Zod could simply suit up and annihilate any opposition.
The man requesting the meeting was Staf, the head of the Stafford Consortium, one of the most powerful financial institutions in America. Staf was a typical figure of the elite class—an elderly, white, bald man in his seventies, though he appeared younger due to meticulous care. He wielded presidential-level power and was accustomed to having his way, much like other influential figures in the American financial world.
Despite his powerful status, Staf had a problem. A recent medical report revealed that he had cancer, albeit in the early stages. For someone like Staf, even the suggestion of mortality was a blow. He had never faced a health crisis before, and now he was desperate for a solution. His doctors assured him there was a high chance of recovery, but Staf didn't believe in probabilities—he wanted guarantees.
That's when Staf turned his attention to Zod. Zod's reputation was impeccable, having developed a cure for AIDS when no one else could. Over two million patients had been treated, with no failures or deaths. Zod's medical breakthroughs had made him a global sensation, but unlike Tony Stark, who constantly sought the limelight, Zod had retreated into his work. He spent his days in Blade Technology Industries, tirelessly advancing human knowledge.
Though tempted to exploit Zod's intellect for his own gain, Staf realized that even the U.S. government wouldn't move against him. Zod's innovations, particularly his secondary kryptonite gold, had brought tremendous benefits to the world. Many of the aging elite hoped Zod might one day develop life-extension technology, so no one dared challenge him openly.
When Staf reached out to Zod for a meeting, Zod refused to come. "If you want to talk, you can video call me, or you can come here yourself," Zod said curtly.
Staf, a man who had the President of the United States in his pocket, was livid. He wasn't used to being treated this way. But Staf also understood the reality—he needed Zod more than Zod needed him. Begrudgingly, he agreed to meet on Zod's terms.
In the end, Staf offered a deal. He would provide Zod with a sum equal to twenty times the capital of Blade Technology Industries if Zod would develop a cure for cancer. It was a staggering amount, but to Staf and his consortium, money was no object.
Zod, hearing the offer, laughed. "These financial groups sure know how to throw money around—twenty times the capital," he mused. If Aldrich Killian had access to such wealth, he would never have needed to resort to terrorism.
Zod had no doubt he could cure cancer. He could do so without relying on the Extremis Virus, but he preferred an easier route, and the virus would make things simpler.
Staf also wanted shares in Blade Technology Industries, promising to invest vast sums in the company. But Zod was not interested. Instead, he named his price: one hundred times the capital.