Become Kingpin and build a hero mercenary company.

Page 3

Three options, three completely different paths.

Kingpin's gaze slowly moved between the three options.

Secret societies? What's the difference between that and what he's doing now? It's just replacing the thugs with superpowered thugs. Essentially, it's still the same underground operation. The scope is too small, and it goes against his deepest desire to "change careers" and "go ashore."

Affiliation or cooperation? Especially with S.H.I.E.L.D.? Kingpin immediately rejected the option, recalling the cunning glint in Nick Fury's single eye. Cooperating with such an organization was like dancing with wolves; all his secrets and advantages could be devoured, leaving nothing but bones.

Ultimately, his focus was firmly on [Option C: Open and aboveboard business operation model].

Neutrality, credibility, autonomy, and attracting talent... these words deeply resonated with him.

More importantly, this plan was remarkably similar to the corporate operating model he was familiar with in his previous life! Only the products had changed from specific goods or services to "crisis solutions" and "heroic human resources." KPIs, performance appraisals, compensation systems, project management… these concepts he was intimately familiar with could be perfectly applied!

How do you manage a group of superheroes who can fly and teleport, using the methods for managing a Fortune 500 company?

Once the thought arose, it spread like wildfire through his mind. An unprecedented sense of excitement, a mixture of challenge and morbid amusement, replaced the initial absurdity and coercion.

This was no longer a task imposed on him by the system, but... an extremely tempting and unprecedented business blueprint! A golden opportunity for him to truly clean up his act, and even stand in a higher position than ever before!

“Legal shell…public credibility…commercial operation…” Kingpin repeated these keywords under his breath, his mind racing at an unprecedented pace. A non-profit organization? A public welfare enterprise? The specific legal structure would require a professional legal team to design. Initial funding wasn't a problem for him. Headquarters location…the Fisker Group already had several suitable properties. Most importantly, how to articulate this concept to the public, how to take the first step…

His thoughts became clearer and clearer, and a vague but grand framework was gradually taking shape in his mind.

He pushed open the car door, his massive frame standing in the empty parking lot, the lights casting a cold, hard halo around his bald head. He raised his hand again, looking at the dried milk tea stain. This time, his eyes no longer held disgust, but rather a hint of amusement.

The stain seemed to be a mark of his past life, while the system interface flashing blue in his mind pointed to a future full of unknowns and challenges, but also potentially more glorious.

He clenched his fist lightly, his knuckles cracking.

“This association,” Kingpin’s lips curled into a cold, resolute smile, his deep voice echoing in the empty parking lot.

"We have to get this going!"

Chapter 5: This association needs to be established!

When Kingpin returned to his office on the top floor of the Fisker Tower, the New York night sky outside the window was already dotted with stars, and the city lights were like a dazzling tapestry unfolded. However, the gloom that had shrouded his heart due to the decline of his underground business was dispelled by a more intense and clearer light.

He didn't turn on the lights, leaving the office in a dim, half-lit atmosphere, with only the city's glow casting a cold, hard edge on his imposing silhouette. He went straight to the liquor cabinet, but instead of touching the expensive spirits, he poured himself a glass of ice water, a rare occurrence for him. The cold liquid slid down his throat, slightly calming the turbulent thoughts within him.

In my mind, the system's blue interface floated steadily, and the words "[Option C: Open and aboveboard, business operation model]" stood out like a lighthouse.

“Wesley,” he said to the empty office, his voice transmitted to the outside through the built-in communication system.

Almost immediately, the office door was gently pushed open, and James Wesley strode in, his face still showing a hint of barely concealed doubt and worry. "Boss, you're back. In Queens..." He cautiously observed Kingpin's expression, trying to read something from that usually dignified face, which now exuded a strange excitement.

"All done. A minor problem." Kingpin brushed it off casually, placing his water glass on the expensive mahogany desk with a soft tap. "Sit."

Wesley sat down as instructed, straightening his back and placing his hands on his knees, adopting a listening posture. He knew that when his boss spoke in this tone, it usually meant there was an important decision to be made.

Kingpin turned around, facing the dazzling city outside the window, his back to Wesley, and slowly spoke, his voice deep and penetrating: "Wesley, what do you think of the prospects for our current 'business'?"

Wesley paused, not expecting his boss to ask this. He carefully chose his words: "Boss, although we've encountered some... challenges recently, our foundation is solid, and our influence across various industries remains..."

“I’m asking about the future, not the present,” Kingpin interrupted him, his tone calm but carrying an undeniable pressure. “Forget all that self-comforting talk. Tell me, in the foreseeable future, how many vigilantes like Daredevil and Spider-Man will we face? How many increasingly troublesome official agencies like S.H.I.E.L.D. will we have to deal with? And those perpetually insatiable politicians and those idiots who are always eyeing our territory?”

Wesley fell silent. As Kingpin's most trusted aide, he knew better than anyone how deep and murky this water was. The traditional criminal empire model had indeed reached a bottleneck, or even been on a downward spiral. Maintaining the status quo required tremendous effort, let alone expansion.

“We’re like dancing in a shrinking box, Wesley,” Kingpin said with a hint of sarcasm. “Every step is restricted, every movement risks hitting the wall. And this box isn’t exactly…decent.”

Decent? Hearing this word from Kingpin sent a strong sense of unease through Wesley. When had their world ever been associated with the word "decent"?

“Boss, what do you mean…” Wesley asked tentatively.

Kingpin finally turned around, his sharp eyes gleaming in the dim light, fixed firmly on Wesley. "It's time for a bigger stage, Wesley. A bright, legitimate, even... respected stage."

Wesley's heart skipped a beat. He had a vague idea of ​​what was going on, but he thought the idea was too crazy.

“I’m going to start a new organization,” Kingpin said, each word like a hammer blow to Wesley’s heart. “A completely legal, transparent, non-profit organization with the core objective of maintaining city safety and handling special crises. The name will be—'The Hero Association'.”

"The Heroes' Association?" Wesley almost thought he'd misheard. The phrase coming from Kingpin was as absurd as hearing him say he was going to run for Boy Scout leader.

“That’s right.” Kingpin walked behind his desk, placed his hands on the surface, and leaned forward, the oppressive aura making Wesley gasp for breath. “We will make the initial investment and endorsement in the name of the Fisk Corporation. This association will be open to the public, recruiting those with special abilities or a sense of justice who are willing to contribute to maintaining order. We will provide them with professional training, comprehensive equipment, reasonable compensation, and most importantly—legal identity and authorization to act.”

Wesley opened his mouth, feeling his worldview being brutally dismantled and rebuilt by his boss's words. Publicly recruiting superpowered individuals? Paying salaries? Legal status?

“Boss, this…this is incredible.” Wesley finally found his voice and tried to maintain his professional demeanor. “But the risks…the authorities won’t stand idly by. What will the existing ‘superheroes’ think of us? Will the public believe us? And how can we ensure that the people we recruit…are under control?”

"Risk and opportunity always go hand in hand, Wesley." Kingpin straightened up, his tone filled with unwavering confidence. "The authorities? We'll silence them with the most compliant legal framework and impeccable transparency, even... making them dependent on us at times. Existing heroes? They'll either be recruited by us or we'll eliminate them. The public? They'll soon see that a professional, organized crisis response force is far more reliable and efficient than those lone, haphazard masked vigilantes."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the grayed-out [Association Building] modules on the system interface in his mind, and continued, "As for controllability... we will establish a comprehensive system. From rigorous competency assessments and background checks to a clearly defined promotion system, clear task processes, and competitive performance rewards and welfare benefits. We will use a corporate management model to make 'hero' a profession, a respected and promising one."

Corporate management heroes... performance bonuses... five social insurances and one housing fund...

Wesley felt his brain was about to overload. He tried to imagine Daredevil or Spider-Man sitting in an office writing weekly reports and conducting KPI assessments, and a strong sense of dizziness washed over him.

At the same time, as a top-notch professional manager (albeit a mafia-style one), he keenly sensed the enormous potential and…profits hidden behind this seemingly insane plan. If successful, it would indeed be a foundation far larger, more stable, and "safer" than his current underground empire.

“We need to start preparations immediately.” King didn’t give Wesley time to process his shock and gave the order directly: “First, contact our top and most reliable team in the legal field and complete the non-profit registration of the ‘Hero Association’ as quickly as possible. All legal documents must be impeccable.”

"Second, activate Fisker Group's public relations department to prepare for the upcoming media storm. I need to see a detailed media response and image-building plan within three days."

"Third, select suitable properties under the group to serve as the association's temporary headquarters and future training base. The requirements are: a suitable location, sufficient space, and ease of renovation."

"Fourth, and most importantly," Kingpin's gaze was sharp as an eagle's, "begin designing the association's internal structure, hero ranking system, mission issuance and reward mechanism, and... compensation and benefits standards. Remember, we're attracting real talent, not street thugs."

A series of clear and specific instructions showed that Kingpin's decision was not impulsive but rather the result of careful consideration. Wesley forcibly suppressed the turmoil in his heart, and his professional instincts quickly got him into focus. He took out his electronic notebook and began jotting down notes rapidly.

“I understand, boss. I’ll get on it right away.” Wesley took a deep breath, looked up at Kingpin, his eyes still lingering with shock, but even more so with the ignited excitement of facing a tremendous challenge. “But… boss, how are we going to explain to the outside world why a business leader like you… would suddenly want to establish a ‘Hero Association’?”

Kingpin walked to the floor-to-ceiling window, looking down once more at the city below, a city filled with both crime and heroism, a meaningful smile playing on his lips.

"Reason?" His deep voice echoed in the empty office.

“Tell them that Wilson Fisk, as a socially responsible entrepreneur, can no longer stand by and watch innocent citizens be harmed in the increasingly frequent extraordinary events. He is willing to invest resources to build a professional and standardized platform that allows those with the ability to protect others to fulfill their responsibilities more effectively and safely. This is a public good, and also an investment in the future of this city.”

Looking at his boss's incredibly tall and unfamiliar figure against the backdrop of the city lights, Wesley finally understood—his boss was serious. He wasn't joking, nor was he plotting some deeper conspiracy.

He really wants to clean up his act, switch tracks, and redefine the "rules of the game" in this city.

“Yes, boss.” Wesley bowed deeply, his tone filled with unprecedented solemnity this time. “The Hero Association… will definitely succeed.”

He turned and walked away quickly, his mind already racing, trying to figure out how to turn his boss's outrageous idea into reality step by step.

In the office, Kingpin stood alone. He raised his hand, looking at his palm, which had been cleaned of milk tea stains. The last trace of absurdity in his eyes completely disappeared, replaced by a sharpness and focus like a hawk locking onto its prey.

In my mind, the system interface flickered slightly.

The association's development process has begun. Development progress +1.

[Hint: The host has successfully taken the crucial first step, triggering the hidden quest – "A Declaration of the Times." Quest Requirements: Successfully convene a press conference to announce the establishment of the "Hero Association" and generate widespread attention globally (positive or controversial attention is acceptable). Quest Rewards: 500 points, [Beginner Association Building Gift Pack] x1]

Kingpin's lips curled up once more, that cold, hard, and resolute curve.

A press conference? Perfect timing.

It's time to let the world hear his new manifesto.

Chapter 6: Press Conference: Being a Hero is a Job

Three days later, the largest banquet hall at the New York Hilton Hotel was packed with people, and the atmosphere was so lively it was almost explosive.

The flashbulbs of cameras, like a barrage of lightning, nearly engulfed the entire venue. Reporters from major global media outlets, including financial, entertainment, and even tabloids, crammed every corner, their cameras and microphones aimed at the stage in front—a backdrop covered in deep blue velvet, with a large, simple logo printed on the background: a shield made of minimalist lines, intertwined olive branches and stars at its center, and the striking English words "HERO ASSOCIATION" below.

A mixture of curiosity, skepticism, excitement, and morbid curiosity filled the air. Everyone wanted to know what Wilson Fisk, this controversial business tycoon and philanthropist from New York and even across the United States, was up to by suddenly and so publicly announcing the formation of an organization called the "Heroes Association."

Backstage in the dressing room, James Wesley was adjusting Kingpin's tie and suit hem one last time. His palms were sweating; despite having meticulously reviewed all the procedures and anticipated every possible challenge, he still couldn't remain completely calm in the face of such a spectacle and the terrifying nature of the project itself.

“Boss, all the media are here, and the schedule has been finalized. Here’s the remote for your teleprompter.” Wesley’s voice was slightly tense. “James, the editor-in-chief of the Daily Bugle, is here in person, as are CNN, BBC… and S.H.I.E.L.D., although they didn’t come openly, there are definitely people from them in the venue.”

Kingpin stood quietly, letting Wesley do his work. Today he wore a top-tailored dark gray suit, pressed without a single wrinkle, which softened his massive frame, making him appear less like a gangster and more like a business tycoon with composure and authority. His bald head reflected a cold, hard sheen under the lights, and his face was expressionless, as if the deafening clamor outside had nothing to do with him.

"Very good." He responded casually, took the small remote control, and put it in his pocket without even looking at it. He already knew his speech by heart, or rather, it was a condensation of his true thoughts.

“Time’s up, boss.” Wesley took a deep breath and stepped back.

Kingpin nodded, straightened his cuffs, and walked with steady and firm steps toward the side door leading to the podium.

When his imposing figure appeared on one side of the stage, the entire venue fell silent for a moment. Then, an even more intense wave of flashing lights swept in, almost engulfing him. He calmly walked to the center of the stage and adjusted the microphone height—though it was still a bit too low for him.

He didn't speak immediately, but slowly swept his sharp eyes across the dark mass of people below the stage. Wherever his gaze fell, the noise subsided again, and everyone felt an invisible pressure.

"Ladies and gentlemen, friends from the media," Kingpin began, his voice resonating throughout the hall through the high-quality sound system, deep and powerful, carrying an unquestionable authority. "Good morning. Thank you all for taking time out of your busy schedules to be here."

"Today, I stand here not as the chairman of the Fisker Group, but as an ordinary citizen deeply concerned, and as an entrepreneur willing to take responsibility for the future of this city, to announce an important decision—the 'Heroes Association' is officially established today."

A low murmur arose from the audience, but it quickly subsided as everyone pricked up their ears.

"The world we live in is undergoing unprecedented changes." Kingpin's voice carried a heavy tone. "Every day, we see, hear, and even experience events that are beyond the comprehension of ordinary people in the news. Powerful individuals, dangerous mutated creatures, disasters that cannot be explained by science... We call them 'abnormal events'."

"Ordinary people are so vulnerable in the face of these events. Existing law enforcement and emergency response systems are often inadequate. We are fortunate to have some individuals with extraordinary abilities who are committed to justice and willing to step forward to protect the innocent. We call them heroes."

He paused here, his gaze sweeping across the room once more.

"But!" His voice suddenly rose, carrying a sharp question, "Have we considered what risks these 'heroes' take? When they are injured while fighting danger, who will ensure their medical care? If they unfortunately sacrifice their lives, who will provide for their families? They protect this city day after day, what is their livelihood? Do they rely solely on their passion and occasional donations from the public?"

A series of questions struck everyone's hearts like heavy hammer blows. Many reporters wore thoughtful expressions; these were indeed questions that few had considered in depth.

“More importantly,” Kingpin continued, his tone becoming forceful, “their actions lacked standardization, coordination, and effective logistical support. They might miss rescue attempts due to poor information flow, find themselves in danger due to mismatched capabilities, or even cause unnecessary damage and casualties due to misjudgment! This is irresponsible to the heroes themselves, and also irresponsible to public safety!”

The audience murmured again, this time with more agreement and surprise. Kingpin's words tore away the romantic veil surrounding the concept of "superheroes," revealing the harsh reality behind it.

"Therefore, the 'Hero Association' was born!" Kingpin's voice echoed in the hall like a declaration. "Our purpose is not to create heroes, but to provide a professional, standardized, and institutionalized platform for existing heroes and those who may appear in the future!"

"In the Hero Association, 'hero' will no longer be a vague title, but a formal profession, a job worthy of respect, and one that enjoys due rights and protections!"

The word "work" was like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, instantly creating ripples! The audience erupted in an uproar!

"We will establish a strict hero registration and ability assessment system to ensure that every member of the association is vetted and possesses the corresponding abilities and moral character."

"We will establish a clear mission assignment and grading system to ensure that heroes can obtain accurate intelligence support and act within their capabilities when handling incidents."

"We will provide professional combat training, equipment development and logistical support to maximize the efficiency and safety of heroes."

“Most importantly,” Kingpin said, almost emphasizing each word, “we will provide all registered heroes with competitive salaries, comprehensive medical care, disability benefits, and… retirement plans!”

"boom--!"

The venue erupted in chaos!

Salary! Medical insurance! Retirement!

The chemical reaction between these words and "superheroes" was nuclear-level! The reporters could no longer contain themselves and raised their hands one after another, with some even shouting out questions.

Kingpin raised his hand and pressed it down, his powerful aura once again quieting the room slightly.

“I know this sounds unorthodox.” Kingpin’s lips even curled into a very faint, almost mocking smile. “Some people will ask, does measuring a hero’s contribution with money tarnish the purity of the word ‘hero’?”

"My answer is: No! Quite the opposite!" His voice was resolute. "Recognizing the value of heroes, giving them the rewards they deserve, and ensuring their and their families' livelihoods is not a disgrace, but the greatest respect! It's about telling those brave warriors who are willing to stand up for others in the most practical way—we will take care of your worries! Society will recognize your value!"

"The Hero Association is not a charity; it is a modern, highly efficient crisis response agency. We welcome all those with a sense of justice and ability to join us, regardless of your capabilities or background. Here, you will gain opportunities for growth, the respect you deserve, and tangible protection!"

"Our goal is to build a global, professional network of heroes, so that whenever an anomaly occurs anywhere, the most suitable hero can be dispatched to handle it in the fastest and most professional way!"

"A hero should not be a lonely symbol, much less a tragic victim. It should be a glorious, promising profession, and... with comprehensive benefits!"

“Crack!” “Crack!” “Crack!”

The flashbulbs went off again, capturing this historic moment and Kingpin's resolute and powerful face.

"That concludes my remarks," Kingpin said in a calm tone. "Now, it's time for questions."

Instantly, countless hands were raised from below the stage, like a forest.

A male reporter wearing gold-rimmed glasses was called first. He immediately stood up and spoke rapidly: "Mr. Fisk! I'm James from the Daily Bugle! Are you implying that masked vigilantes like Spider-Man are unprofessional and irresponsible? Do you believe your association is superior to those traditional 'lone rangers'?"

Kingpin remained unmoved: "I have no intention of commenting on any individual's actions. I am simply stating a fact: the power of a systematic and organized approach is generally superior to going it alone in terms of efficiency, security, and sustainability. The association welcomes all like-minded individuals to join us in raising industry standards."

The next reporter was a female journalist: "Mr. Fisker, you mentioned salaries and benefits. Where does this huge sum of money come from? Will the association accept government grants? Will this affect its independence?"

“Initial funding was provided by the Fisker Group and myself personally. In the future, we plan to sustain operations through social donations, corporate sponsorships, and the provision of certain paid security services. We insist on financial transparency and ensure the independence and neutrality of the association.”

"Mr. Fisk! If heroes cause property damage or civilian casualties while performing their missions, who will bear the responsibility? The Association?" Another pointed question.

"The association will purchase high-value professional liability insurance for all registered heroes. At the same time, we will establish strict mission evaluation and code of conduct to minimize the occurrence of such incidents. In the event of an incident, the association will have a comprehensive investigation and compensation mechanism."

“Mr. Fisk…”

“Mr. Fisk…”

Questions came flooding in, sharp, direct, and full of skepticism. But Kingpin remained calm and composed, answering fluently and confidently. His responses were logically clear and assertive, yet revealed meticulous consideration in the details, transforming a seemingly absurd idea into a feasible and forward-looking grand blueprint.

Backstage, Wesley watched everything through the monitor, finally letting out a long sigh of relief, a smile of both relief and pride spreading across his face. He knew that regardless of how the outside world viewed it, from this moment on, the concept of the "Hero Association" had been like a bombshell dropped into this already chaotic world, bound to create unprecedented waves.

Standing in the center of the stage, bathed in countless flashes of light, Kingpin looked at the faces below the stage, some shocked, some doubtful, and some excited, and felt completely calm.