Marvel Cybernetic Girl

— Avengers Compound, Northern New York

The Avengers' original headquarters had once been the iconic Stark Tower in downtown New York.

But as the Avengers team grew larger and their weapons and tech advanced, the bustling city center gradually became an inconvenient location.

Especially with the ever-expanding Iron Legion that needed ample space for storage, maintenance, and upgrades.

And so, after a year-long joint project between Stark Industries and Rhodes Island Industries.

A brand-new Avengers Compound was completed on the outskirts of northern New York: a vast, well-equipped, and beautifully designed facility far from the noise of the city.

Though this enormous base was meant to be the central hub for all Avengers activity, it often felt quiet and empty—after all, the heroes didn't gather here every day.

But today was different.

Today, the compound was alive with energy—cars arriving one after another, people bustling about, voices and laughter filling the air.

Tonight's grand banquet, organized by none other than Tony Stark himself, had gathered not only every Avenger but also trusted allies from across the globe.

And at the very heart of this celebration was the guest of honor: Kagura, the hero who had given so much for the peace and safety of the world.

Being a superhero may seem glamorous on the outside—but it's also a life of sacrifice.

These extraordinary individuals might have the power to protect the planet and win the admiration of millions... but few ever paused to consider the personal toll it took.

People might bow their heads for a fallen hero, but who truly cared about the scars—both visible and hidden—left on those who survived?

Applause and flowers can't heal a broken soul.

Everyone revered Iron Man—but how many knew of Tony Stark's worsening mental struggles?

Without Kagura's quiet support and willingness to share his burdens, Tony might have long since crumbled under the weight of his responsibilities.

Everyone cheered for the Hulk—marveled at his unstoppable fury—but who thought of Bruce Banner, suffering in silence from his fractured psyche, loathing and fearing the monster within?

Even Clint Barton—Hawkeye—thanks to Kagura's guidance, had become one of the team's most reliable pillars of strength.

His sleek black-and-gold combat suit and stylish cloak had turned him into a fan-favorite hero whose image plastered toys and posters everywhere.

But Clint had a wife. Children. He was aging. Retirement should have been on his horizon years ago.

And yet—how many knew the price he'd paid to fulfill his duty as a hero?

To Kagura, every Avenger bore unseen wounds—quiet tales of pain and sacrifice behind their shining masks.

And they didn't realize… she was the same.

Her name—"Flashblade"—was now known across the world.

Her sharp, dashing figure had become the very symbol of female superheroes.

But Kagura's only wish was for everyone to live peaceful, happy lives—including herself.

She longed for a simple, carefree existence here in this world.

Ten years had passed in the blink of an eye.

Ten long years filled with endless trials, battles, and crises.

Peaceful days? Lazy, relaxing afternoons?

Without even noticing, Kagura's dream of a quiet life had been swept away by one disaster after another.

This girl—who looked so small and delicate—rarely even had the luxury of watching anime or playing video games anymore. Such innocent joys were now rare treasures.

Thankfully… someone in this world still cared about her.

Aside from certain stubborn friends far off in Asgard, Tony Stark remained one of the few who truly worried for Kagura.

And so this grand banquet, held in the Avengers Compound tonight, was entirely Tony's idea—a gesture of gratitude, of celebration… and of friendship.

————————————————————————

As the sun set, the start of the banquet drew near.

Kagura arrived behind the wheel of a rare Lamborghini Veneno, slowly pulling into the compound now lit brightly with lights and buzzing with life.

Sitting in the driver's seat, the silver-haired girl didn't immediately step out.

She simply sat there, letting out a long, thoughtful sigh as her gaze fell upon the vast building before her.

"Ahh... I feel oddly at peace today…"

For once, she felt truly present in this Marvel world—not as a detached observer or cautious overseer, but as someone living, breathing, part of it all.

Moments like this… only moments like this reminded her that she belonged.

Leaning back in her seat, Kagura gently closed her eyes, savoring the rare quiet.

She listened to the sounds of joy outside, and a soft, contented smile bloomed on her pale cheeks.

Beyond those doors were the people she had once admired from afar—heroes she once saw only on screens, from another world.

And yet now… they walked beside her.

Because of her efforts, they had stepped into a future different from the one she'd known—a better future.

And in that future… she was one of them. Someone who was cared for. Treasured.

For that reason alone, all the battles, all the sacrifices—had been worth it.

If there was a name for this gentle, invisible bond tying them together… it would surely be: Bonds, a connection of souls.

"Mm… just a little more. Almost there…" she whispered softly.

"As long as we make it through that final battle... what awaits beyond must be a future filled with endless possibilities."

She gently smoothed the fabric of her dress, collected her thoughts, and then gracefully stepped out of the car.

At that moment, all the spotlights turned toward her.

After all, this banquet was prepared in her honor—tonight, she was the undeniable star.

Her gown, as dark and shimmering as the night sky, perfectly accentuated her nearly divine figure.

The decorations were elegant without being excessive, the light, flowing skirt glittered as she moved, and the tasteful slit revealed just enough while maintaining a sense of grace.

Tonight, Kagura looked flawless—radiant beyond compare.

Like a fairy born from the heavens, she stood there in breathtaking beauty.

Even amidst the gathering of Earth's mightiest heroes, no one could hope to match her presence.

Tony Stark, who had been momentarily lost in admiration, finally snapped out of his trance.

With a bright smile, he stepped forward and announced loudly,

"She's here! Our guest of honor has arrived! Kagura—the one who led us to save this world! The one who made it possible for us to keep living safely on this beautiful planet!"

A wave of thunderous applause swept through the venue.

Descending the steps with the poise of a true gentleman, Tony bowed slightly and extended his hand to welcome her.

"Welcome, my little princess. You look absolutely stunning tonight."

"Thank you, Mr. Stark," Kagura replied with a gentle smile, warmth blooming in her chest.

Wow... so many people came tonight.

'I knew this was going to be a celebration... but this feels way more extravagant than I expected.'

'I thought it'd just be a simple 'welcome back' party...'

"That's because, Hitomi, there are so many people who truly want to thank you," Tony said with a knowing smile, his eyes gesturing toward the crowd.

"The Avengers, your friends from Griffin, high-ranking officials, even the everyday citizens out there... so many people are grateful for what you've done for this world. And I'm one of them. Hitomi... thank you."

"Mm-hmm! You're welcome! And thank you, Mr. Stark!"

Kagura beamed, her golden eyes curving into crescents like a smiling moon—just like a little girl grinning from the heart.

Thank you, Mr. Stark.

Thank you... everyone.

It was because of all of you... that this soul, who had crossed worlds and once felt so alone, could finally find a place to call "home."

It was because of you... that I know every effort I've made has been worth it.

"Hitomi... my dear little sister. It's been a while. I'm glad to see you looking so well. That puts my mind at ease."

A smooth, magnetic male voice—tinged with a mischievous charm—suddenly whispered close to her ear amidst the lively banquet.

"Congratulations on living like a princess—no, like a queen—here on Earth. But, unfortunately... I've brought some bad news."

He leaned in, his words quiet and chilling.

"Twilight... is coming."