Epilogue

"Master, I bring with me an update," the humble servant said as he bowed his head. His master slightly lowered his own head, inviting the man to relay his tale.

"As you requested, Justin Hammer has been dealt with; the officials deemed his death a suicide."

The servant waited for an acknowledgment from his master, but when none was perceived, he continued his report.

"The other man, the one that almost destroyed your loyal servants, was seen using a cast. No life-threatening injuries were received by him, however, and he has relocated to his old home. The assembly of vigilantes is regrouping – we believe the man who used your image has given them valuable information in exchange for his life."

"And what about The Source?" the Master asked, staring into something only he could perceive.

"The Source has joined the vigilantes."

"I see."

The servant nodded to his master, thanking him for his attention as he stood up. He knew he had been dismissed, but the curiosity within him was more powerful than his hardwired customs.

"Master, if…if I may…when will we know if the technology works?"

The Master stood up from his chair, walking closer to the now frightened servant, the Ten Rings of Power glowing with every word the Master spoke. "They have been working already, so far. Why do you think the winter weather in the city of New York was so odd?"

The servant furrowed his eyebrows realizing that while he had been on duty gathering information from his targets, the weather in the city had not been as treacherous as it was known to be. This had been a blessing as it had made his snooping around much easier.

"What is our next step, Master?"

"We bring The Source to us. Without her, my reach is limited."

"What about her protector? He won't let her out of his sight."

"Protector?" The Master – The Mandarin, scoffed. "He's just a man in a can."

A/N: Intrigued? Follow me/Favorite me to find out when the sequel comes out! Don't forget to review! Until then, best wishes to all of you :) See ya 'round!