**
Link chuckled and said, "Why should it be our funds? This should be paid for by every nation on Earth."
"My ideal scenario is to create a defense perimeter in space, controlled by the Avengers. We won't interfere with Earth's political affairs."
Norman Osborn, looking conflicted, asked, "Is that even feasible?"
"Absolutely!" Link replied, pouring Norman a drink. "You know, the threat of extraterrestrials has already arrived, and no country on Earth is currently capable of developing space-faring warships."
"The tech we acquired from Asgard? It's not for sharing."
Norman, a seasoned capitalist, responded, "But all nations will want it!"
"Then let them challenge the Avengers' strength!" Link shrugged, taking a sip of bourbon. "We have an alliance with Asgard. We can call their army anytime, and with their Rainbow Bridge, they can teleport to any point on Earth. Even nuclear weapons would be useless."
"Norman, remember: the one with the bigger fist makes the rules. Right now, the Avengers have the biggest fist."
Norman hesitated, but Link noticed. "If you have something on your mind, feel free to say it."
"Link, right now the Avengers' numbers are limited. Even with an alliance, will Asgard really fight alongside you? Also, your own combat strength isn't particularly high," Norman pointed out. "You could build a suit like Stark's, yet you've only crafted a simple nanotech suit."
"You're a genius—I can't believe you haven't considered building something more advanced."
Link laughed, patting Norman on the shoulder. "Do you really know me, Norman?"
Norman paused, scrutinizing Link. Then it clicked. "You're right. I don't really know you. Given your intellect, you must have something up your sleeve. You're clearly not worried, which means you've got a backup plan."
"Exactly. That's why I picked you as CEO—you're sharp." Link continued, "Don't worry. Nothing can threaten me or Osborn Industries."
"I understand you're concerned about Osborn Industries, but by the time we go public, we'll already have secured interstellar knowledge and built our space warship."
"The reason I called you here today wasn't to start production immediately. We need to build a new factory. Find some old land in New York to construct the final assembly plant."
"I also need to show this design to Tony for his input. When it's time to start production, the key systems will be made in-house."
"In the future, we might even build this in space—especially the energy and space-jump systems. These must be under our full control."
"I plan to handcraft the first ship with Tony, then pilot it into space myself to scout for routes and potentially acquire a large spaceship. That's my goal."
Norman's jaw dropped. "You have a plan?"
"And this ship is single-pilot. What if something goes wrong?"
"Don't forget, I designed it, so I can repair it. And even if I get stranded in space, Asgard can still use the Rainbow Bridge to retrieve me."
"I'll bring a communicator. And remember, Norman—you never really understood me."
Norman exhaled sharply, then nodded. "It seems you're confident. And there's no point in trying to dissuade you. I'll handle the logistics. Do you have the blueprints for the assembly plant?"
"I do. I'll have Alfred send them over. You can start looking for suitable land," Link said with a grin, finally convincing Norman Osborn. After all, the corporation relied on him for management, and such a massive endeavor couldn't be kept a secret.
Especially since the weapons factory was operating below capacity. The workers were practically being paid to do nothing, which wasn't profitable.
...
Link soon sent the design to Stark, who immediately called in shock. "Link, was this designed by Osborn Industries?"
"Of course. Don't worry—the core secrets are secure," Link assured.
"Incredible. Osborn Industries must have a real genius—this design came together fast," Stark sounded doubtful.
"You can trust me. So, any suggestions for improvement?" Link asked.
"Of course. I'll optimize it," Stark replied.
Link shared his vision. "Tony, I plan to build the ship, then pilot it into space to scout and evaluate other spaceships and warships. Asgard has provided lots of intel, but we need to see for ourselves. I think we should build a mothership capable of carrying these fighters."
"And on Earth's outer space, we should construct a large spaceport as the Avengers' space headquarters."
"The current Avengers headquarters would serve as a ground communications station, ensuring our independence from all governments, including the World Security Council."
"What do you think?"
Stark replied, "I'm all in!"
"Let's do it. But are you really going alone?"
"Yes," Link confirmed. "The Avengers' primary forces are needed to defend Earth. I'm the most suitable candidate."
"You can't be absent for long, but I can. I won't be gone for too long because there are spatial nodes allowing for quick jumps. The round trip would take only a few months."
"And negotiating with other parties? I'm the right person for the job."
Stark paused, realizing Link was irreplaceable. Only Link could handle this.
Could Captain America pilot a spaceship?
Hawkeye and Black Widow were assassins and spies—not suitable for this mission.
Bruce Banner was Earth's strongest weapon, and Stark himself had too much publicity. Unlike Link, who kept a low profile.
Besides, with Norman Osborn running his company, Link didn't need to worry about anything.
"I understand now. I'll start making the modifications, but your design lacks living quarters," Stark pointed out. "Each spatial node is far apart. You'll need a living area."
"No need, Tony. I've prepared some basic living facilities—enough for the journey," Link declined. "Just build a small ship. Modify this design, and it'll be fine."
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