[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Empire: Act 1: Part 1
I tried. I tried to forget. I tried to move on. I fought with myself all these years because I am not a dumb man. I know that hate devours, and it decays, and I know that at the end of my life I do not want to be the man who hated, and hated well. I want to be the man who loved. I want to be the man who others speak of with passion instead of pity. I want that so badly. But here I am. Hot with hate. Hate for him. Wolverine. Damn him, God. Please, damn him. For me. For those he has taken from me. For all the misery he has brought on others. He is a killer. He destroys without regard. He is a monster. And no one will stop him. No one will give him the death he deserves. But he will. He will.
50 years ago, Logan stumbles out of 'The Shack' bar. Kneeling in the mud, he stares at his hands with dismay. Finishing his beer, he climbs into his truck. As he does, a young lady exits the bar covered in blood and crying. She yells at Logan and calls him a bastard. Banging her fists up against his truck window, she tells him he was done. He was done fighting. He couldn't even lift his head and he-- he gutted him. Oh, God. Oh, God, he's gone. What is she gonna do? When Logan begins to start his truck, theyoung woman tells him no. Fight her. Fight her, coward. She'll rip out his heart, she'll kill him. From the woods nearby, a sniper has Logan in his sights. Before he can fire his weapon, Daken, wearing a trench coat, tells the man no, not like this. Not now. He then tells the man that he has time. They both do.
In present day Milan, at a fashion show, a freckle-faced female assistant scours the dressing room for Monique. Many of the models tell her to go away but one of them points over towards a nearby room and says that she, uh, went in there. Inside the room, Daken is locked in an amorous embrace with Monique. As he kisses her neck, Monique exalts 'oh, God.' Daken tells her to call him that again. He likes the way it sounds. Monique asks him does he think he can order her around. Daken replies that he thinks she'll do anything for him once she's through with her. Anything at all.
Just then, the assistant walks in. Upon seeing Daken, she says 'Oh. You.' Daken tells her oh yes and then asks her if she cares to join them. After the assistant tells her no, Monique points out listen to her, refusing him. Must be a first. After she kisses Daken, Monique turns to leave and tells him not to make any plans tonight, he's all hers. When she's gone, Daken asks the assistant what her name is. The assistant coldly tells him that it's Sophie. Daken says to her that he apologizes for anything that might have offended her. Sophie tells him don't. She deals with a lot of jackasses. He's nothing special. As Sophie walks away, Daken thinks to himself that's the way it should be. On the surface, anyway.
Walking out into the dressing room, Daken thinks to himself that the best place to hid is in plain sight. Mask firmly in place. Smile, and the world will never see the dagger on your tongue. Laugh, and the world will never hear your hate. Walking by two models, he hears them debate on whether or not to eat a strawberry. Picking it up, Daken feeds it to one of the models. As he does, the fashion designer looks on in shock and hurriedly makes his way over. When he has finished feeding the model the strawberry, Daken tells her there she goes. That wasn't so bad, was it? He then says to Donatello to tell his models that they don't need to starve themselves to be beautiful.
Checking out his models teeth, he makes sure there are no seeds and that they're still nice and white. Once he sees that they are, he tells her to go ahead and take off. Looking at Daken forlornly, Donatello mentions to Daken that the girls are so silly, afraid of strawberries. Daken says and him. But he likes that. Power is so... seductive. Doesn't he think? He then asks Donatello how that piece is coming along, the one he designed for him. When Donatello doesn't answer, Daken asks him again. Donatello says that he meant to tell him it is done. Perhaps he could come back to his home after the show to try it on. Taking a bite out of a strawberry, Daken says he would love to. Handing it to Donatello, Daken tells him to have some. He needs to keep up his strength. As Daken walks away, Donatello mentions to the unimpressed Sophie that man has a terrible beauty. And it is such an inspiration.
As he walks out of the building and out onto the street, Daken's cell phone rings. He tells the person on the other end of the line, Johnny Storm, that he's a funny man. He hopes Ben doesn't catch up with him. Or Sue. And no. He set his underwear on fire while he was making his move on a woman. Did he really expect a different response? What would he have done? He then tells him they'll have to talk about that later. He's going to have to hang up now, someone's about to kill him.
Just then, Daken is surrounded by five mercenaries. After he hangs up the phone, Daken finishes sipping his champagne glass, and proceeds to systematically kill four out of the five mercenaries with ease. Seeing the fifth mercenary, a woman, is still alive, Daken asks her isn't she tough. She takes a lickin' and keeps on tickin'. Grabbing her by the ponytail, Daken tells her he likes tough women. So sexy. The mercenary begs him to let her go, she'll tell him anything. Tossing her into a dark corner, Daken finishes her off. As he does so, he tells her that he already knows everything.
Later, at a palatial estate nestled on a cliff overlooking the ocean, Daken tells the man whose face is partially covered in shadows that he has a lovely home. He must feel so safe there, so removed from the world. He's surprised he would risk it all by trying to kill him. Did he actually believe his men stood a chance? The old man answers no, he did not. But if he had simply called him, would he be there right now? Daken says good point. But why even reach out to him? Heï¿½s done his part. When the old man asks 'have you,' Daken tells him not to play games. He found Wolverine's woman for him. And he found...
The old man says enough. He didn't bring him there to talk about that. Mystique has betrayed them. Reaching up to grab some grapes, Daken says what a surprise, especially given her track record of unquestioning loyalty. Clenching his fist, the old man tells him joke if he likes. And he knows he does. He is not surprised that Mystique betrayed them. Whatï¿½s surprising to him is that she knows. So the real question isn't why, but how. Peering at him, Daken asks it's obvious, isn't it? He told her. He told her everything. When the old man asks him why, Daken tells him because he wants it all. And the only way to have it all is to make sure that no one else has anything. And the best way to keep everything is to make certain no one else knows you have it. The greatest treasures are always hidden. Often in plain sight.
In Milan, the gutted body of Donatello is discovered by authorities. All over his home are pictures of Daken. As the investigation continues, Daken stands atop a building in San Francisco. Wearing his newer, sleeker costume, Daken remarks that for as long as he can remember, he has lived in shadow. The shadow of Romulus. The shadow of his father, Wolverine. Until now. Now, he will live in his own shadow. He will become a shadow. As well as the light that creates it. His time has come. Beware the fury of a patient man.


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Empire: Act 1: Part 2
At the opera, Daken tells the old man leader of the Red Right Hand that justice is revenge. He doesn't need to tell him that. He's been wronged. All of them have. Hearts broken, scattered, burned. He burns. Such a righteous, terrible fire. In his blood, now. In his dreams. Every breath he takes. So consumed, he can't sleep. He can't even make love to a woman. Not that he seems to care. Revenge is his mistress. Revenge is where heï¿½s buried his soul. But his approach needs to be refined. He seems to be under the mistaken impression that the best revenge is blunt, that it only counts if you look your target in the eye as you pull the trigger.
But that's the revenge of a child... and ultimately meaningless. He needs to be a ghost. Erase all evidence of his own existence so that, when his plan is triggered, it seems to come from nowhere. From no one. It must be calculated and cold. It must be perfect. And most importantly, once initiated his plan cannot change.
At another time, at the old man's home, Daken informs him there's been a change of plans. Sitting in a chair, wearing a robe, and sipping on his tea, the old man responds by saying he supposes he expects him not to object. Daken tells him he expects him to be intelligent enough to realize that objections are futile. He's told him what he wants. And he'll give it to him. The old man informs Daken that he is not indispensible. He could have him removed from the picture ... permanently. Daken tells the old man to not exert himself too much. They don't want to call the nurse to change his diaper. He adds that he sent his father to hell and he didn't interfere. He even helped, in his own way. His services aren't free. The old man interjects that his patience is not free. Mystique must die. Daken says no. He wants her left alive, unless he wants him to derail his plans. Besides, he likes the idea of... meeting up with her again.
As Daken departs the room, he tells the old man good-bye, you devil. Don't forget their bargain. Once Daken leaves, the old man rises from his chair, lets his robe fall to the ground, and picks up the box sitting next to him. Opening the box, the old man drizzles the ashes inside onto the ground in a circular shape. After sitting in the middle and lighting a candle, fire engulfs the old man and the image of the Devil appears amidst the flames.
In Miami, Daken walks the streets. While he plays with children and dances with a woman on the street, he thinks that it is a beautiful day. Beautifully his. He held a life in his hands, played merciful god. Makes him understand why heroes do what they do. Saving a life feels... different. But this, this feels better.
At the Lopez hotel, Daken enters a room where Mystique has just recently emerged from taking a shower. Seeing Mystique draped in her towels, Daken sees her and says what a lovely surprise. Mystique replies she's sure it is and calls him a charming, handsome liar. Daken tells her careful. She might cut out his heart with words like that. After Mystique retorts that assuming he has a heart, Daken tells her it does play hide and seek, on occasion. Mystique snips back that she doubts that he's ever bothered looking for it.
After a brief moment of tense silence, Daken tells Mystique to go on and tell him why she's there. Mystique tells him that as much as it pains her to admit this, she needs his help. Looking out the window, Daken tells her that she's lost her mind if she thinks she can trust him. Mystique replies doesn't she know it. But he's the only one she can go to for help with the Wolverine situation. Daken says that's all well and good but it may be difficult to help her. Leaning closer to her, Daken tells Mystique that it's due to the fact that he's supposed to kill her. He then informs her not to worry. He politely refused. Mystique responds that it sounds like something worth celebrating.
When Daken asks over drinks, Mystique says she knows a place. Turning his back to her, Daken asks if she minds if he changes first. As Daken begins to change, Mystique answers not at all. Not. One. Bit. When he's finished changing, Daken tells Mystique to stand up. As she does, Mystique removes her towels and unveils a very revealing dress. After Mystique asks him what he thinks, Daken asks her if she has anything sexier.
A short while later, Daken has his arm around Mystique as they enter the restaurant. Making their way to their table, Daken tells her that he hopes she's armed. When Mystique asks him if he's planning on doing away with her already, Daken tells her hardly. But all the wives and girlfriends of the men staring at her might not be so restrained. Mystique tells him don't try to charm her. Besides, does he really think she could hide anything under her dress? Daken tells her that he can think of a few places heï¿½d like to search. Mystique tells him don't make me blush. Daken replies a challenge. Mystique tells him 'please.' He's a baby. An hour with her would break him. Daken says she must not think very highly of him. Mystique responds on the contrary. She said an hour, as opposed to ten minutes. Daken says well, then. Call him flattered.
Just then, the waiter makes his way over and asks if they would like to start with some... Daken cuts him off and tells him wine, yes. Red, please. Mystique says no, white. Daken then tells the waiter to bring one bottle of each, the best he has. As Daken rises from his seat, Mystique asks him where he thinks he's going. Moving his chair closer to her, Daken tells Mystique she was too far away. Sitting next to her, Daken asks Mystique if he's crowding her. When she tells him no, he puts his arm around her and asks her what about now. Mystique tells him don't make me yawn. Daken asks what if he makes her scream. Mystique replies if only he were up for it. When Daken asks isn't he, Mystique tells him she's old enough to be his mother. Daken smiles and then looks down at his plate with his eyes closed. After Mystique asks him what is it, Daken tells her he's never met anyone so like himself. When Mystique puts her hand up to Daken's face, Daken excuses himself and leaves the table.
Once Daken leaves, the waiter shows Mystique the bottle of red wine. Mystique tells him that she's changed her mind, give her the red. As she sits at the table and begins to sip her wine, she catches a whiff of brimstone. Turning around, Mystique asks 'Kurt?' When she turns around, she doesn't see Kurt, she sees Wolverine ... in actuality Hellverine. Upon seeing him, Mystique calls Daken a bastard. He set her up. Morphing into her standard white costume, Mystique rushes towards Hellverine with a knife in tow.
Before she can inflict any damage, Hellverine punches her, grabs her by the throat, and proceeds to slam her onto the ground. Standing over her, he pops his claws and prepares to finish her off. Before he can, Daken grabs his arm and tells Hellverine that if he kills her, there's nowhere he'll be safe. Even in hell. Hellverine remarks that he's not there to kill her. With that, he engulfs Daken in flames, and stands over his charred body as Mystique looks on with a horrified look on her face.


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Act 1: Part 3
In the Miami restaurant, Hellverine stands over the charred body of Daken. As he does, he tells him that he smells like chicken. How embarrassing. Horrified, Mystique says no, and then an angry no. Making his way over to a nearby table, Hellverine tells Mystique that “no” is an overrated word. Touching a young lady’s chin, he adds that he bets she never says no. Especially when she knows what’s good for her. When her male companion takes the moment to run away, Hellverine remarks that her husband certainly doesn’t have the will to tell him to back off. Such a pity. He was a fan of chivalry, once.
Turning around and seeing that Mystique has morphed into a red suit of armor with spikes at the ends of her fists, Hellverine states that a woman in shining armor never gets old. Just then, Mystique stabs Hellverine in the eye with one of her spikes. When she does so, his response is a disingenuous “ow.” As Hellverine and Mystique begin to do battle, he says to her such anger. More than he would have expected from her. Unless it’s possible that she actually cared about Daken, enough to die for him. Slamming her face first into the ground, he tells her no, he didn’t think so. When he kicks her when she’s down, he tells her to give in. She has no power.
Just then, Mystique morphs into a panther, and swipes at Hellverine. Grabbing hold of her and tossing her across the restaurant, Hellverine says he can see her soul, she pretends to be what she’s not. Deep down, she knows she’s a fraud. And he’s going to rip her apart with her bare hands.
Once Hellverine makes his way across the restaurant, he doesn’t see Mystique (who slinked away) but a bunch of frightened patrons of the restaurant. Among them, Hellverine calls out fee, fie, foe, fum. I smell the blood of a desperate woman. Be she live, or be she dead. I’ll grind her bones to make my bread. Just then, Hellverine grabs hold of a portly man and tells him not so fast. He then proceeds to tell him not so fast. They’re not done yet. He still needs to kill her. At that moment, the portly man morphs into Mystique and she defiantly tells Hellverine he can try. She then calls him a piece of crap and tells him she’s ready. She hopes he is too.
Before Hellverine can jam his claws into Mystique, members of the Miami police arrive on the scene. When they enter, one of the cops says oh my god. Plunging his claws into his gut, Hellverine tells him not exactly. After killing the cop, Hellverine turns around to see that Mystique has left and calls her a sly woman.
Out on the street, Mystique thinks about the charred body of Daken and says damn it. Morphing into the form of a raven-haired young lady, Mystique remarks that’s what she gets for meeting a man who makes her laugh.
Inside the restaurant, Hellverine stands over the charred body of Daken as the patrons of the restaurant hurriedly escape. Leaning over him, Hellverine tells Daken that he always was his favorite son.
In Daken’s memory, he recalls a time when he was a young boy and he and Romulus were sitting on top of a hill overlooking a village in Japan. Romulus told the slumbering Daken to sit up. The sun will still be shining on his face when they’re done. He wants him to see something. He wants him to see his greatest asset and his greatest weakness. When Daken asks “weakness?”, Romulus tells him that he will always be outnumbered. That was his greatest mistake. He underestimated the power of human numbers. He overestimated his own ability to combat those numbers. He let the humans see him. He let them know him. And once they knew there was only one of him, once his existence was no longer a mystery, the power he held over them disappeared. That is why he disappeared into the shadows. And in those shadows, he built his empire. The humans never knew where he was. Therefore, they assumed he was everywhere. That is power.
Daken remarks and if they can’t see you, they can’t hurt you. He then says to Romulus that he’ll always be alone. Romulus agrees. But that’s the price they pay to survive. Never care about them, never care about anyone but yourself because no one else will care about you. No one.
On a Miami rooftop, Daken has completely healed and calls Hellverine a son of a bitch. Hellverine says look at him, spitting like a kitten all because of a woman. Daken responds that killing Mystique wasn’t part of the deal. Hellverine asks what deal. The deal he made with the old man? That piece of human skin holds no power over him and even if the did, Daken would be a fool to think he’d have let her live. But that never occurred to him, did it. That someone would lie to him in order to get what they want.
Enraged, Daken goes to punch Hellverine. Before he can get close, Hellverine grabs hold of him and calls him a naïve child. He has much to learn. That’s why he’s letting him live. With that, he tosses Daken into a nearby window. Picking himself up, Daken tells Hellverine that if he thinks he somehow owes him, he’s going to be waiting a long time to collect. Hellverine answers not that long, not long at all. With that, he disappears.
Looking down at the burning restaurant, Daken remarks long enough. He’s only just begun, after all. He then realizes that he’s done it. He’s dead to the world. The king is dead. Long live the king. Alone. Safe. All loose ends accounted for. Getting into a car, Daken drives down the streets of Miami and in time passes Mystique, and eventually a disko that Johnny Storm is leaving with a female companion.
As they do, Johnny remarks to his female companion, Georgette, what a dance floor. Seeing a burning building down the street from the disko, Georgette points it out to Johnny and asks him if someone got killed. Johnny asks what she said. The music is still making his ears buzz. Georgette repeats “did someone…” Before they make their way down the street, Johnny checks his beeping cell-phone. When he looks down he sees that he has a message from Daken that says “call me.”
Making their way down the street, the couple unknowingly passes Mystique along the way.
Seeing the crowd, Georgette remarks that it’s nuts over there. Johnny says tragic is more like it. When Georgette asks Johnny if he can asks them what happened, Johnny tells her no. Georgette asks no he can’t or no he won’t. Johnny replies pick one. Just because he flies around on fire doesn’t mean he gets to butt in every time he sees some crime scene. The police know what they’re doing. His job is to take care of problems they can’t. Georgette asks like monsters and sexy beasts from outer space. Johnny tells her that’s right.
As they pass by one of the witnesses, Johnny overhears her giving a statement to one of the policemen. She says that one of the men was covered in flames. He wasn’t human. And his eyes – when he looked at you, it was like he could see into your soul. The policeman then asks about the man who died. The young lady says she doesn’t know. It happened so fast. He saved a woman, a blue woman. The man had a Mohawk and claws, claws that came out of his hands. Upon hearing that, Johnny says no and frantically tries to call Daken but there is no answer.
At that moment, one of the workers emerges from the building carrying a bag of ash. He tells one of the cops this is all that’s left. He can’t even tell if the victim was a man or a woman. The cop says man, according to witnesses. The worker says well, whatever. He’s ash now. With a shocked look on his face, Johnny tells Georgette that he needs to cut their night short but he’ll drive her home. Georgette says okay and then asks him what’s wrong. Johnny tells her that he wasn’t there when a friend needed him.
At Four Freedoms Plaza, Franklin Richards is working on a shuttle while his mother, the Invisible Woman looks on and his father, Mr. Fantastic continues one of his experiments. Franklin proceeds to tell his mom that dad already gave him the launch codes and he said if he and Valeria built their own space shuttle, he could fly it. Val showed him what to do. He just has to put in the last part, and…
Sue begins to ask Reed about it but he changes the subject and says he has to answer the phone. He then tells Sue that he can’t help it if their children are geniuses. Sue tells him to remember that the next time they can’t find them. If they end up on the moon again, he’s sleeping in this lab for the next ten years. Reed remarks that’s where he usually sleeps and Sue says doesn’t she know it.
Once he answers the phone, Johnny tells him he’s in Miami and there was a fight at some restaurant. He doesn’t know what happened. He then tells Reed and Sue that Daken is dead. After what happened to him in Osborn’s Avengers, they promised him they’d be there for him, and now… this was no accident. When Reed asks Johnny if he’s certain, Sue takes Franklin out of the room. Johnny tells Reed that he’s absolutely certain. He was murdered. He knows it. Daken said that might be a distinct possibility. Reed and Johnny then recall back when Daken handed them a piece of paper that said “If it happens, this is who is responsible…”


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Empire: Act 2: Part 1
At the Baxter Building located in New York City, home of the Fantastic Four, Reed Richards lies in bed with his wife Susan. As he does, he tells her she was right. He does need to get out of the lab more often. After Sue agrees with him, Reed gives her a kiss and tells her he loves her. He knows he doesn’t say it often enough, but he does. Sue replies she knows. She loves him too.
Pulling back a little, Reed remarks that he feels as though there’s a “but” in there. Sue says no buts. She’s just worried about Johnny. Living this life hasn’t always been easy for him. He doesn’t have that many friends. Reed adds that he’s not handling Daken’s death very well. Sue states that it’s worse that the note Daken left them didn’t actually lead to anyone. While Reed tells Sue to give him time, Johnny Storm flies off into the sky. Seeing him streak by their window, Sue says she doesn’t think that will be enough. On the roof, Ben Grimm enjoys a few cold beers while wearing a Hawaiian shirt and flip-flops. When Johnny flies by, Ben tells him to burn it off, kid. It’ll get easier.
The next morning, Reed is working in his lab when he mentions that he smells something good. Entering the lab, Sue tells him that it’s some coffee for her favorite mad scientist. When she comes closer, Reed tells Sue that he was talking about her. As Sue calls him a sweet-talker and they bond over the coffee, a shadowy figure watches them from behind some equipment. Just then, the lights go out, much to the shock of Sue and Reed. Before they can react, their attacker wraps a chain around Sue’s neck and pulls her to the ground. Using her powers, Sue is able to destroy the chain as Reed begins to go after their attacker. Enraged, Sue yells at Reed to get out of her way.
Walking past the laboratory, Ben Grimm carries a flashlight and remarks that this better not be some bad joke. You live with a genius and you can’t even keep the lights on. Just then, a hole is busted in the wall near his shoulder. Looking through the hole, Ben asks Reed and Sue if they’re fighting again. ‘Cause he’s telling her, Suzie, man’s got a right to leave the toilet seat up. Looking on the ground at their defeated foe, Ben asks who it is. At that moment, an alarm goes off. Immediately, Sue, Reed, and Ben recognize that it’s the alarm in Franklin’s room.
In short time, Reed makes his way down to Franklin’s room first. Once he gets there, he sees another assassin holding his son hostage with a gun to his head. When Reed asks the man in the shadows what he’s one to his son, the man replies that he drugged him and that worse will happen if he doesn’t get out of his…
Before the figure can finish his sentence, he is stabbed from behind by Daken. After killing the assassin, Daken catches Franklin before he can fall to the ground. Once Reed realizes who Franklin’s savior is, he is surprised. Daken tells him yes, and goes to hand Franklin over to Reed. Before he can, Ben and Sue arrive on the scene. As Sue encases Franklin in a protective force field, Ben goes after his attacker. He tells him that by the time he’s done, there won’t be enough of him left to flush down a toilet. Dodging Ben’s punch, Daken tells him he’s cute and gives him a kiss on his cheek. Daken then asks Ben if he liked that as much as he did. Wait, why is he asking? Of course he did.
As Reed holds Sue back, she tells him that if he doesn’t let her go right now… Reed tells her no, it’s not what she thinks. Upon hearing the attacker speak, Sue realizes who it is. While Ben continues his assault, but missing with every blow, Daken tells him that he thinks their first date should be in Central Park. They’ll snuggle on a bench. If he doesn’t break it, that is. Just then, Johnny comes flying in and punches Daken across the face. Continuing his attack, Johnny angrily asks him that he thinks he can come into their home and hurt his nephew? As Johnny engulfs the figure in flames, Daken tells him to wait, it’s not what he thinks. Once he pops his claws, Johnny realizes who he is and stops his assault. Looking down at him, he remarks that it can’t be. Removing his burning mask, Daken asks the members of the Fantastic Four if they missed him.
Later, inside the med ward, Daken tells them that they can’t imagine the trouble he went to in order to get his uniform. It’s designer. He looks over at the members of the FF and asks them what. Did they really think he would be that easy to kill? Johnny angrily yells at him and calls him a jerk. He let them think he was dead. Why? Why didn’t he just say something, anything? He thought he trusted them. Daken says he’s there now because they’re the only ones he can trust. Reed asks him about the warning he gave them, the note. Daken tells him poor planning. He didn’t expect to find himself deceased in the manner that he did. And he didn’t intend for people to think he was dead but once it happened, it was the perfect way for him to start over without the Osborn legacy.
When Ben remarks gimme a break, Daken states that he’s made mistakes. He’s not a good person. He wants to change that. It’s hard though, when people look at you and see only one thing. When they judge you, before giving you chance. This is his opportunity to prove that he can be someone different. Eventually, when the time is right, he’ll come out as himself. Then, maybe, people will finally accept him without the past hanging over his head. They’ll see him as he is, instead of what he was. Ben says pretty talk, but what was all that craziness that went down tonight. Seems like trouble is still following him. Daken says he’s dead, remember. Obviously, they all have other problems. Thank goodness he has impeccable timing. Ben replies timing, shiming. He didn’t hafta break in. Daken answers well, no. But he wouldn’t really expect him to knock, would he?
Later, in Johnny’s room, Daken puts on a pair of his jeans and a Fantastic Four t-shirt. He remarks to Johnny that he’s being very quiet. He then tells him that he’s sorry, he really is. Johnny tells him that when he thought he had died he was sorry, more sorry than he knows. He felt terrible that he wasn’t there for him. Daken thanks him and then tells him that he has a confession. He had another reason for coming there. He needs help with something. After Johnny replies that he figured as much, Daken tells him that he didn’t know how to ask. Johnny tells him to ask. It’s not hard. Even for a dead man.
Inside the lab, Ben tells “Stretch” that he’s not happy ‘bout Daken being there. Reed tells him too bad. He thought the two of them looked awfully cute together. Ben laughs and adds that he’s telling him, he’s a real bad apple. And those other guys who ran off before they could I.D. them? Real convenient. He’s got some reason for being there that’s got nuthin’ to do with making nice with them.
At that moment, Daken enters the lab with Johnny and tells Ben he’s right. He needs a weapon. After Ben exclaims he knew it, Reed tells Daken that he’s not in the business of weapons. Daken says he knows but the minute he pops his claws, the game is over. If he wants to hide his identity, he can’t use his claws. Even if people don’t know it’s him, they’ll tie them back to Wolverine. And he needs to defend himself, somehow. Ben tells him his ugly mug’s enough to do that. Daken responds by telling him not to fight his feelings. He knows he’s not.
Digging in his drawers, Reed pulls out a device. Holding it in his hands, Daken says bluntly it’s a glove. Reed apologizes that it’s not designer and tells him to put it on. As he attaches a wire, Johnny says it looks totally useless. Reed states that it was going to be a present for Tigra, but he never finished it. Needs some streamlining, but the basic concept is strong. So, yes it’s a glove, but not just a glove. After Reed pushes the button, the mechanical claw glove lights up. Taking a swipe in the air, Daken asks how much damage he can do with it. Reed tells him that it won’t kill. He won’t give him anything like that. But it will stun anyone he touches. Daken asks anyone, and proceeds to touch Ben in the chest with it. Looking down at Daken, Ben tells him that tickled. Reed remarks that Ben is an exception to a lot of things. He then tells Daken that he’ll make some enhancements and hide all the loose wires. It won’t take him long. Daken thanks Reed and tells him he really appreciates it. When Johnny asks him if he needs anything else, Daken smiles and tells him no, he has everything he needs.
Later, on the roof, Ben enjoys a beer while Johnny looks out over the city. As he does, Ben mentions that was some night. He heard Daken saying good-bye to Reed and Suzie. He guesses that means he’s leaving. Real short visit. Got what he came here for, right? Just then, Daken makes his way to the roof. When he asks Ben and Johnny if they mind if he joins them, Ben says yeah. After asking if he minds if he has some of his beer, the answer is again yeah. Daken then asks Ben if he minds if he snuggles up on the chair with him. Ben responds by asking him if he minds if he throws him off the building. Daken replies only if it doesn’t mess up his shirt.
Standing up, Ben tells Daken that he’s a little nuts. Daken responds that obviously, he needs more hugs. Shaking Daken’s hand, Ben tells him that he guesses he’s not so bad, punk. Daken says that’s a shame. With that, Ben tells Daken to take of himself and leaves the roof. Once they’re alone, Daken asks Johnny if he comes up there often. Johnny answers that it’s peaceful. When Daken asks him if peace is hard for him to come by for him, Johnny tells him sometimes when he thinks too much, how about him. Daken answers that he’s still looking for his version of peace. Looking out over the city, Johnny tells him he’ll find it. It’s a beautiful world. Daken says yes, he supposes it is.
Inside, Ben asks Johnny if he’s gone. When Johnny replies that he is, Franklin asks his mom if they are talking about the man with the funny hair. As Franklin runs over to Johnny and gives him a hug, Susan asks her brother if he’s okay. Johnny tells her not to worry about him. Leaving Franklin with Johnny and Ben, Susan makes her way over to her husband who is staring out the window. She mentions to him that he’s been quiet ever since Daken left. Reed tells her that he’s just thinking. Something doesn’t add up. Last night’s attack was planned by someone very sophisticated. So sophisticated, that he finds it strange the men who attacked them used such rudimentary weapons. A chain? A gun? Susan asks if he thinks they were a distraction. Reed answers that he thinks they had two distractions last night. Daken was right. He does have impeccable timing. But what did he really want?
Sitting on a boat, wearing a disguise, Daken looks into a small box holding an unknown device and tells Reed sorry but he doesn’t have the stomach to put it to good use. Just then, Daken sees someone reading a newspaper and notices that the headline is “Trial of Captain America. Cap revealed as soviet assassin Winter Soldier.” Grabbing the paper, Daken stares at it intently. He wonders if this can be true. Right under his nose the whole time… Captain America. James Barnes. He’s the Winter Soldier – the man who killed his mother. Crumpling up the paper and dropping it into the water below, Daken remarks interesting, very interesting. He’s next. As the boat pulls up to the island of Madripoor, Daken states that right now he’s got a city to steal.


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Empire: Act 2: Part 2
When I was a child, I believed that darkness was alive, and would consume me. Consume… and change me. I was right. But there was no place to hide. The darkness was everywhere. I felt like that when I first came to Madripoor. I was afraid for myself. But I got over it.
Inside a Madripoor office building, Tyger Tiger, flanked by her guards, infiltrates an office. As Tyger continues her beating of one of the men, she slams him on a nearby table and says to him that he must think she’s stupid. That all she does is sit around, painting her nails. She tells the man, Petrus, that she used to be a banker, which means she always follows the numbers. She follows the numbers of every business on the island. And when she doesn’t see the numbers, she finds them. She found his. And does he know what? They don’t add up. So she dug. And she dug. And she found something that really… really pisses her off.
Holding her knife to Petrus’ eye, she says that he’s selling girls and boys. He’s keeping slaves, for sex. And some of them are only ten years old. Does he know what she does with scum like him? Just then, she slams her knife into the ground, narrowly missing Petrus’ crotch. She then tells the man that she has two rules on the island. No drugs, no slaves. She thinks she’ll add morons to that list, too.
One of her henchman, Max, tells her that Madripoor will be empty if she does that. Tyger laughs and then tells her men that she wants his assets. She wants the deeds to his property. And she wants the names of every person Petrus did business with. Then, they are to get him, all of them, off the island. Tonight. Max then informs her that Charlie just checked in. The nuns have arrived. Leaving the room, she remarks that she’ll ask them if there’s a priest available for later.
In another section of the building, the nuns approach Tyger and tell her they came as soon as they could. Tyger thanks Sister Francis for coming and remarks that she wishes they didn’t have to meet like this. Sister Francis agrees and proceeds to follow Tyger down the hall. As they do, Tyger tells them that the man in charge converted three floors of the office building into a brothel. Right under her nose. Son of a bitch. After the nuns say please, they’d rather not..., Tyger apologizes. Reaching a female guard standing outside a room, Tyger asks her, Jaz, how they are. Jaz reports they are terrified. A couple of the stronger girls are taking care of the… the really little ones. They put the boys in another room. As the nuns go to work attending to the girls, Jaz asks Tyger if she’s gonna kill him for this. Tyger tells her that she doesn’t know yet. But the night’s still young and you never know what waits in the darkness.
Sitting outside the building inside their vehicle, Tyger and Max watch the parade of people exiting. Max tells Tyger that she cleaned the city up. Despite nights like this, don’t forget that. His wife and daughter have real lives there now. He’s not afraid every second they’ll get hurt, or worse. Didn’t used to be that way. Tyger replies maybe, but it could flip so fast. That’s what scares her. The good times, the peace. One wrong move, and they could lose it all. They could lose everything. As they drive off, Daken watches them from the shadows behind a building.
Entering her apartment, Tyger strips and readies herself to get into the shower. Before she does, she hears her cat hiss at a stranger, and proceeds to point her gun at the intruder (Daken). She tells him that she expected retaliation but not this fast. Daken tells her he’s not there for that. He just wants to talk about an opportunity that might interest her. Tyger says oh sure, him and every other two-bit criminal who comes through Madripoor. She’s heard everything. She doesn’t make deals. With that, she shoots Daken in the shoulder.
As Daken stands up, Tyger says to him that he’s not too smart, is he. She then tells him to get out, or else the next bullet will be in his heart. After Daken tells her she doesn’t want to do that, Tyger shoots him again, this time in the neck. Standing over the prone body of Daken, Tyger remarks that she doesn’t want a corpse in her living room, but life’s not fair; is it. Heading back into the bathroom, Tyger mutters that all she wanted was a quiet evening. Is that too much to ask?
As soon as Tyger goes to enter the bathroom, she is attacked from behind by Daken, who stabs her in the chest with his new stun claw. Standing over her prone body, Daken says to her that she doesn’t bluff, he admires that. He admires a lot of things about her. But she took too much for granted. She made assumptions. She thought she was in control. That’s what he’s there to discuss. Tonight she discovered something very dirty – a man, operating outside her control. Maybe she’ll find the root of it. Maybe she’ll shoot that root, like she shot him. But the ground will remain fertile. To kill the problem, you have to kill the source. And, in this case, the source has everything to do with money. When Tyger asks him who he is, Daken answers that they have a mutual acquaintance, his father.
In short time, Tyger is sitting on her couch with her cat in her lap as Daken looks out the window. As he does, she calls him by his name Daken Akhiro. She had a drink with Logan some months back. He talked about him. She tells Daken he’s no prize but, for some reason, he still cares about him. And he hates that, doesn’t he? Scowling, Daken answers that he’s not there to discuss him. Taking a sip of her drink, Tyger points out that he brought it up. Turning around to face her, Daken says they need to change the subject.
He then asks her what she knows about the inner dealings between Madripoor’s bankers. Tyger answers not enough. If there’s one cartel on this island that she hasn’t been able to touch, it’s them. They protect each other fiercely. When it comes right down to it, they’re the ones with the real power. Money is God and the Devil on Madripoor. Daken says it’s like that everywhere. So she’s heard about the secret ledgers they keep? Handwritten, perfect details about all the money they hold over the heads of the world’s most powerful crime syndicates?
Tyger states that those ledgers are a myth. As he starts to remove his uniform top, Daken tells her no, they’re not. Actually, as a matter of fact, they’re the reason why the bankers protect each other. And very soon, both the bankers and the ledgers are going to be in the same place at the same time. Standing, Tyger asks Daken what he wants. When Daken tells her that he wants to work together, Tyger asks him again what he wants from her. Daken says he’s trying to start over. Madripoor is a good place to get his footing. Tyger asks is that right. She then tells him she doesn’t trust him. She thinks he’s going to stab her in the back the first chance he gets. Daken says maybe, but he can get close to those ledgers. That’s worth a prick or two, doesn’t she think?
Tyger tells him that she thinks she deals with enough of those in her line of work. She then tells him to be at her office tomorrow morning at nine. They’ll talk more there. When Daken says they could talk more there, Tyger tells him no. She then tells him he’s a good actor but his eyes give him away. He has no interest in her, only in what she can give him. She also tells him to ditch the uniform tomorrow too. After Daken asks if there’s anything else, Tyger tells him nothing he can give her. Daken tells her she’d be surprised and, as he leaves, he tells her good night. Tyger remarks that, so far, it’s been anything but.
Just then, her phone rings. Answering it, her chief of police, Captain Gui, informs her that he has been following up on the evidence her people provided, and he’s made some very disturbing discoveries. Tyger says under her breath of course he has and then tells him to be at her office first thing in the morning.
Once he gets home, Captain Gui is greeted at his apartment by his wife and his two children. Opening the door to his home, his wife asks him if he had a long day. Gui replies that it was horrible but, after his eldest daughter gives him a big hug, he states that it’s much better now. His wife asks him if he would like to talk about it and Gui says yes, but…
After they send the older guy off to play, Gui informs his wife that Tyger Tiger discovered a human trafficking ring. It involved children. He’s the top cop in Madripoor and he had no idea that it was happening right under his nose. His wife remarks that Tyger is a criminal. She has knowledge to which he is not privy, resources that he cannot, as a policeman, tap into. Gui says yes, she’s a criminal with almost unlimited resources. And he answers to her. What does that make him? A puppet? A fool? His wife tells him what he is is a good man. The last good man in Madripoor.
Taking a bite of his dinner, Gui adds that he’s supposed to talk with her tomorrow. He’s not looking forward to it. His wife says that is why his burden is so heavy. Seeing his wife looking over their bills, Gui asks her if they are okay for the month. His wife answers that she thinks so but that special school called. They finally have a place for Adanna. Gui states that’s wonderful and then asks how much it costs. After his wife informs him too much, Gui tells her to tell them she’s going. With a concerned look on her face, his wife starts to ask questions but Gui cuts her off and tells her that nothing is more important. They’ll figure it out.
The next morning, in Tyger’s office, Tyger asks Max and Gui if they are sure this is all they found. They checked everywhere? Max replies that’s it. Almost all the business that Petrus conducted in that place was done in cash, very few computer records. But his men were able to give them some names. She won’t like them. There are some local bankers and local politicians on that list. Tyger remarks she bets and asks what else. Gui tells her there were some hard sales. Young girls and boys were bought and transferred to different locations on and off the island. He’s tasked a unit to search for them. They found one location, but all that was left were… bodies. His men tell him that it looks as though… they were experimented on.
When Tyger asks for specifics, Gui states that it was a lab. The children were in cells. Some had been cut open and stitched back together. Others were deformed. He’ll have a detailed report to her in an hour. Tyger asks what the hell is going on but, before the answer can come, she is informed by one of her guards that some weirdo is there to see her. He doesn’t look like the guy she warned them about. Seeing Daken at the door, Tyger says no, that’s the same weirdo and invites him in. Tyger says to Daken that she told him to leave the uniform at home. Daken replies that he’d feel naked without it. Literally. And they both know she doesn’t want that. At that moment, Tyger tells Max and Gui to wait outside. This will only take a moment. As they leave, Max tells Tyger to say the word if she needs anything.
Once they are alone, Daken tells Tyger that she’s terrified. Tyger stands up and says no; he’s playing games. She then asks him why he’s hiding behind that mask. Daken replies that he told her he’s turning over a new leaf, beginning anew, walking paths unsullied by his past. Tyger remarks that in other words, he’s a coward. He’s a little boy hiding behind a mask because he doesn’t have the guts to stand up in the light and live with his sins.
After a moment of silence, Daken says to her that’s no way to begin. Tyger tells him that it’s her way. She speaks plain; she speaks the truth as she sees it. Can he handle it? Daken says he can but he has one request. Call him whatever she wants. But don’t use his real name. That is between her and him. Tyger says fine and then asks Daken to tell her about those ledgers and how she can find them. Daken informs her that once a year the men gather. It’s a summit, if she likes. They bring their ledgers. They booze. They get entertained. And they make deals with each other. They exchange power over the crime syndicates, as although they’re nothing more than chess pieces. That meeting is happening today. Right now, in fact. It’s the only chance she’ll have to get those ledgers. So he recommends she acts fast.
In short time, Max, Tyger, Gui, and Daken stand outside the location where the bankers are meeting. Max informs Tyger that everyone is in place. They’ve confirmed that Madripoor’s major money players are all in there. But the guys are also reporting guards everywhere, and they’re armed for war. Tyger says no surprise. Think about who they’re protecting. Turning to Gui, Tyger asks him if his men are ready to move in. Gui informs her that he’s chosen only the best, and most trusted. So yes, they’re ready. Directing her attention to Daken, she tells him that he better be right about this. Daken says there’s only one way to find out. Max then tells Tyger that he doesn’t like this and he doesn’t like this man. Tyger tells him that it’s results that matter. If they can get those ledgers, they’ll have the power to make themselves safe, for good. When Max asks what if someone else gets them, Tyger says that she doesn’t want to think about that, she really doesn’t.
Unbeknownst to her, Daken had a secret meeting with Gui.


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Empire: Act 2: Part 3
One loose thread. That’s all it takes. Pull it, and everything unravels. Sometimes, that’s what you want. But right now I prefer all those threads to stay right where they are.
As the bankers inside the complex are “entertained,” Tyger Tiger, Daken, Max and Police Chief Gui continue to wait for the perfect opportunity. As he talks on the phone, Max informs the others that Charlie says the last banker is on his way. His daughter had a recital. When Tyger asks about the briefcase, Max replies that it’s chained to his wrist. At the same time, Gui informs his contact on the phone to maintain his position.
After Tyger asks Max if he’s clear on what to do, Max answers absolutely. When Daken interjects that he’s not clear, Tyger informs him that he doesn’t have to be clear on anything. He’s following her, does he get that? She’s not letting him out of her sight. Daken says to her that he gave her this. Tyger asks for a new start? A second chance at life? Wasn’t’ that what he said? Well, that’s what he’s getting. But on her terms. If he doesn’t like it… then leave. Smiling at her, Daken asks leave? Before the two of them have even…
Just then, Tyger’s phone begins to ring, she tells Daken to hold that no doubt disgusting thought. As Daken watches Tyger walk off, Max tells him to stay right there. Daken asks or what? He’ll start a fight? Bring attention to them? No. He won’t risk doing that. He cares too much what Tyger thinks of him. Max retorts that he, Daken, doesn’t care about her at all. Daken says “aw, who has a crush on the boss?” Or maybe it’s not just a crush. Maybe she likes to wrap those long, sweet legs around his…
When an enraged Max holds his knife to Daken’s neck, Daken walks away and tells him that he won’t tell anyone. As Daken makes his way over to Gui, he says to him that he’s guessing he won’t tell him what’s supposed to happen there today. After Gui tells him no, Daken replies “pity” and proceeds to ask Gui how his wife and his daughter are. He then states that he had heard that the school he wants to send her to is quite expensive.
Away from everybody else, Tyger tells Sister Francis on the phone that she’s sorry, but this isn’t the best time. Sister Francis informs her that it couldn’t wait. It’s the children. They’ve discovered some very disturbing things. Some of them have… medical scars. Others have wounds that refuse to heal. The children say that they were experimented on. Closing her eyes, Tyger tells Sister Francis to tell her more. Sister Francis replies that she wishes she could. The children mentioned a man. When Tyger asks what he looked like, Sister Francis tells her that none of the children know. They never saw his face.
Just then, Max informs Tyger that the last banker has arrived. With that, Tyger tells Sister Francis that she has to go. She will take care of this. If there’s anything she needs, anything, let her know. After she hangs up the phone, Daken points out to her that she’s staring. Tyger states that she’s thinking. She then asks Max if his team is ready. When Max answers “and waiting,” Tyger grits her teeth and says good - let’s do this.
Inside the complex, one of the older bankers enters a room and encounters a very attractive woman. Upon seeing her, he tells her, Jaz, that he was surprised to see her there. He thought she had left the business. Jaz replies that she did but there were certain things she missed. She then tells the man that he’s looking good. The man says he’s looking old but she is lovely, as always.
As the man makes his way over to Jaz, she tells him to lose the briefcase. Let her make him more comfortable. Leaning in close to her, the man tells Jaz that he’s not there to be comfortable. Or has she forgotten what she likes? Jaz says no and adds that he hasn’t changed at all. After snapping a tablet in her teeth, Jaz proceeds to kiss the old man. When she does, the old man collapses and begins to complain about his heart. Opening the door, Jaz calls out for someone to help.
In short time, the paramedics arrive and take the old man out to a nearby ambulance. Once inside the ambulance, the EMT’s tell the old man that they need to take the briefcase off of him now. At first the old man resists but when one of the EMTs (Max) informs him that if his heart stops, they won’t be able to resuscitate him using a defibrillator. With a concerned look, the man says fine, just don’t lose it. Switching the briefcase with another one, Max slyly says they won’t.
Outside the ambulance, the security guards start asking why it is taking so long. The paramedics start to tell them that they don’t understand. He’s receiving medical… The guards cut them off and tell them that they don’t care what he’s receiving. Open the door or they’ll open it for them, after they rip off their arms. Once the door to the ambulance is opened, the guards tell the old man inside that they just wanted to make sure… The old man cuts them off and states that he is fine. Helping the old man up, Max remarks that it was just gas. Leering at him, the old man tells Max to shut up. As he makes his way back into the compound, the old man orders the security guards to not say one word. As far as everyone else is concerned, he was dying.
Entering a board room, the bankers inside ask the old man if he exerted himself a little much with that little piece of tail. One of the other bankers stops the joking and states that they’ve wasted enough time; it’s time to get started. As the old man fiddles with his lock, the briefcase begins to beep and suddenly explodes, killing the bankers inside instantly.
With that, Tyger Tiger, police chief Gui, Jaz, Daken, and other members of Tyger’s team enters the complex. While everybody exchanges congratulations to each other, Daken congratulates Tyger and tells her that she is practically a hero. In response, Tyger asks “and?” Walking away, Daken tells her and nothing. The ledgers are hers. Their business is concluded. Just then, Gui pulls his gun out of his coat and promptly shoots a potential attacker. After Gui asks Tyger if she is okay, Tyger tells him thanks to him; she is. Remind her to give him a… raise. Looking down on the floor, Tyger notices three spheres on the ground and asks what they are.
Outside the complex, Daken calls Max and asks him how long until the secondary blast. With a grim look on his face, Max informs him any second. Just then, the spheres inside the room explode and take out Gui and Tyger. Handing the briefcase carrying the ledgers to Daken, Max reminds him of their deal. Daken informs him that his family is in a boat down by the wharf, mostly unharmed. He recommends some aspirin to take care of the headache they’ll have when they wake up. Making his way back into the complex, Daken gathers the rest of the briefcases and tells Tyger that she will survive. The blast has left her only temporarily paralyzed. After all, he has big plans for her.
Later, under the cover of night, Daken climbs an electric tower. As he does, he says that he has bigger plans than Tyger realizes. And she made it so easy, easy as the push of a button. Inserting a small device into the power box, Daken thanks Reed. Just then, the entire city goes dark.
The next morning, Gui’s daughter looks out the window and says to her mom that everything is so quiet. Turning to her husband, Gui’s wife states that nothing is working. Putting on his jacket and readying his gun, Gui tells her to not bother trying. Anything that required electricity is gone now. They might as well be living a hundred years ago. He then tells them to stay indoors; things are going to get ugly. Outside
, in the hall, Max asks Gui if he’s ready. Gui says no. The city is going to fall to pieces once people realized what’s happened. As they make their way outside, Gui asks was it terrorists? He then asks Max if he has any idea who caused the E.M.P. Max lies and answers that he has no idea at all. Max informs Gui that they have to hurry, Ms. Tyger has new Intel. When Gui asks how, Max states that her sources don’t need the internet to know what’s happening on the street.
On the streets of Madripoor, mass chaos breaks out. As people try to get into the bank to get their money, the employees inside work feverishly to bag and secure whatever hard currency is left on Madripoor before anything bad happens. Just then, a gang of thugs enter the bank with guns drawn and steal the money. When that gang gets outside they are confronted by two other gangs who steal the money from them. On the docks, many citizens of Madripoor are trying to board boats; others are leaping into the water and swimming. As one of the gangs attempts to board a boat, Param Mishra is able to board the boat first. As Mishra informs the gang that they have a boat to steal, Tyger tells them not today and places them all under arrest.
Inside her offices, Gui tells Tyger that there’s nothing left. Every record, every bank account, everything… is gone. They can’t even provide basic services. Anything that ran on electricity is useless. With a stern look on her face, Tyger orders everyone out of the room except Max. Once they are alone, Tyger asks Max what happened.
Later, Tyger stands alone on top of one of the building overlooking the city. She says that she used to fear the darkness. The darkness that would consume her, change her. It’s happening again and there’s no place to hide. Joining her on the roof, Daken points out to her that she can see the stars now. Turning around, Tyger asks him if that is why he did this. When Daken asks her how she is, Tyger simply answers “ready to kill.” Smiling, Daken says “good.”


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Empire: Act 2: Part 4
In Madripoor, Malcolm Colcord presses an entry panel outside a secret laboratory. When it opens, he remarks that they have power again. Entering the lab, Colcord mentions to Dr. Metzger that should expedite things.
Without turning around, Metzger informs Colcord that this isn’t easy and pushing him doesn’t help. He pushed him to human trials ahead of schedule and look what happened. 38 children dead. For no reason. Looking at the documents, Colcord tells him there’s a reason. Those children died because he, Metzger, failed them, and him. He’s given him the sample. He’s given him a lab where he can do his work completely free of legal restraint. He’s given him an unlimited supply of test subjects. All of which makes him wonder, given his extremely low tolerance for incompetence, why he’s still alive.
Metzger tells him threats won’t work. If this can be done, he’s the only one who can do it. It’d be impossible to replace him. Colcord says nothing’s impossible. He’s a scientist, he should know that. With that, Colcord shoots Metzger in the chest with his pistol. As Metzger falls to the ground, clutching his chest, Colcord tells him not to worry. He’ll live. Provided he isolates and replicates the mutant healing factor within 48 hours. Time-released nano-virus. Something his last pet scientist cooked up. Nasty stuff. Do what he needs him to do, by the time he needs it done, and he’ll deactivate it. After Metzger exclaims that’s… that’s not enough time, Colcord says of course it is. A motivated individual such as himself? There’s no limit to what he can accomplish in even a short amount of time.
On top of a building as Madripoor burns around them, Daken tells Tyger Tiger that Madripoor is his. So let’s talk about the future. He holds the ledgers, the key to unlocking the safe holding all of Madripoor’s criminally derived money… in other words, all of Madripoor’s money. The crime families are scrambling to recoup their losses with a city-wide shakedown. No citizen is safe. He holds Captain Gui’s daughter; therefore the police are his as well. They will do nothing to improve the situation. All faith in her, this city’s guardian angel, has been lost. He can also change that.
When Tyger proceeds to ask why she would do that, Daken tells her he would do it because she wants a figurehead, someone to be the visible face of his organization so that he can remain in the shadows, unseen. He then asks her if she wants the job. It’s remarkably similar to her old job but with one very important difference. Tyger states that she answers to him, to which Daken adds and everyone else answers to her. What’s her answer?
Thinking to herself, Tyger says when she was a child, she believed that darkness was alive and would consume her. Consume… and change her. She was right. She has changed. With that, Tyger tells Daken that she concedes but she keeps her people. Daken tells her no, she doesn’t. He adds that he has no delusions about her loyalty, she’s doing this against her will, but she’s doing it nonetheless because the more rational part of her mind tells her that being inside the circle of power is better than being outside. And the more romantic part of her mind tells her that being inside greatly increases her chances of wresting control of that power. She’s not going to make that any easier for her.
Not wishing to inform her that the members of her crew are dead, killed by his hand, Daken then tells her that she’ll have new people… people who will follow her orders – given, ultimately, by him, of course – but who will do nothing else for her because they will hate her. Tyger asks who are these “people.” Daken replies that he’s sure she’ll recognize them when she sees them. They’re waiting for her actually, though they don’t know it yet.
Inside a hangar, Takeshi implores his brother, Benjamin to wake up. When Benjamin asks what happened, Takeshi tells him that they were drugged and kidnapped. Benjamin asks where they are and Takeshi says he doesn’t know yet. But they’re not alone. Just then, Param and Madhavi enter the hangar. Param states that all of the doors are locked and bolted from the outside. They’re trapped in there. Takeshi remarks that he assumed as much. Kissing Madhavi’s hand, Benjamin tells her that she looks lovely. After Madhavi thanks him, Aldo appears out of the shadows and asks ‘ow he looks. Takeshi says same as always – confused.
Kobus Van Holten steps out of the shadows and says no, he knows exactly what has happened. They have been set up. Takeshi asks who, and his answer comes from Tyger who stands above them. She says to them that they need to move on to “why.” Acting on information relayed to them by one of her agents, they have all ordered their soldiers to converge on an abandoned warehouse complex in lowtown. That warehouse complex no longer exists; it has been destroyed, along with their soldiers. The slate is clean. Now, they will rebuild.
Benjamin asks by “we,” he assumes her and the honest, hard-working citizens of Madripoor? He hates to break it to her, but the citizens of Madripoor are none of those things. And neither is she. Tyger replies that she knows what she is, and he’s wrong. By “we,” she means them, Madripoor’s new regime. Param remarks that sTyger has worked to put them out of business for years. Now that she’s bankrupted them, stripped them of their armies and are holding them all captive, she wants to… work with them? Tyger answers no. She wants them to work for her. But only some of them. She only needs one person from each of their separate organizations. Tossing a duffel bag full of weapons in the middle of them, she tells them it’s up to them to decide which one. When Kobus asks what makes her think they will do this, Tyger says because they know it’s better to be inside the circle of power than outside.
Picking up a knife from the bag, Aldo says that it occurs to him there’s another option. As he prepares to throw the knife at Tyger, he is stabbed through the chest from behind by Kobus. Once he does, Kobus states that he believes this concludes his business there. He wants to leave. Watching from the shadows, Daken remarks that was to be expected. What he’s most curious about is the resolution to Benjamin and Takeshi’s family get-together.
Putting his hand on the back of his brother’s neck, Benjamin tells Takeshi that, when their mother died, they promised to protect one another against all enemies. He intends to keep that promise, does he? Takeshi replies of course. If they are to die, they will do it together. Benjamin remarks that they very well might. There’s something he needs to tell him – he’s been having an affair with Param’s wife for over a year.
Suddenly, Madhavi attacks Takeshi while Param angrily attacks Benjamin. Kicking Madhavi in the stomach, Takeshi calls out to his brother. Easily avoiding Param’s attack, Benjamin tells him not to worry about him, worry about her. Just then, Madhavi stabs Takeshi in the chest. Before she can finish him off, Kobus kills Madhavi. In an instant, Param kills Benjamin. As he continues to attack him, Takeshi tackles him and wraps his hands around his throat.
Before he can finish off Param, Daken stops him and tells him there’ll be no more of that. Takeshi yells at him to go ahead, kill him. Daken asks him that he wants to die? Because he has nothing to live for? He’s wrong. Revenge is what he’ll live for. Nine years ago, Kobus Van Holten murdered Takeshi and Benjamin’s mother. It is a scar that runs deep. It is an act that cannot be forgiven. And it must be avenged in the most brutal and calculated way. He, Daken, should know.
Just then, members of the police enter the hangar with their weapons drawn and order the combatants inside to drop their weapons. When they do, Kobus asks what the hell this is. Tyger informs him to consider this a formal introduction. This is Captain Gui. If they need men, and all of them do, he’s the man to ask. After Param asks that the police work for them now, Tyger asks that he still doesn’t understand. Leaving the hangar, Daken remarks that everyone works for him.
Inside the laboratory, Malcolm Colcord informs his contact on the other end of the line that everything is going according to plan. As a matter of fact, they’ve just had a break-through. When the contact asks how long until he can perform the procedure, Metzger hurriedly downs the antidote and states that he’s made preliminary arrangements for delivery of the raw materials.
Entering the lab, the contact, Daken, asks how long. Seeing the body on the gurney, Daken remarks that they’ve re-created the healing factor. After Metzger replies that it was necessary, Daken puts his claws up to Colcord’s neck and exclaims that it was not discussed. Colcord says that it was necessary in order for the test subjects to survive the procedure. They both want this and they both need it to be perfect. Daken can tell he’s lying about something but that doesn’t mean he isn’t correct.
Turning his attention to Metzger, Daken asks him when he starts the next phase of testing. Metzger informs him th-there’s a… a group of subjects being transported to the docks as they speak. Daken says “so, immediately,” to which Metzger answers
“yes, yes.” As soon as they, uh, get there, they’ll begin. He’s just waiting on a call to confirm that they’ve…
Just then, Metzger’s phone rings. When he answers it, the person on the other end asks him if it’s him. When Metzger replies that it is and asks them who this is, Daken covers up the phone and asks where, exactly, was he supposed to meet them? This could be a problem. At that moment, X-23 and Gambit arrive in Madripoor.


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Collision: Part 2
Staring at X-23, Daken notices her eyes. Are those his eyes? Is that his face? Is it his? No. They are nothing alike. But her eyes remind him of him. Holding out his hand, Daken offers her to take his hand. She needs him. X-23 tells him no. She does not need him. With that, she walks away.
Once she has left, Daken tells Tyger Tiger, who has been hiding in the shadows that he knows she’s there. No need to hide. Tyger says she’s just giving him space to breath. Some men need time after a fight. Daken informs her that he’s not one of them. Tyger says of course not. She thought he’d like to know that the northern section of the city is under control. No casualties. What they need now…
Daken cuts her off and tells her he doesn’t care. Whatever it is, take care of it. Moving closer to him, Tyger angrily tells Daken to listen to her. He wanted Madripoor, now he has it. But he also has the responsibilities that go with it. Daken replies no, that’s what she has. That’s why she’s alive. That’s why all those people she cares about are alive. She could leave, of course. He won’t stop her. Putting his arm around her, he asks her that she won’t, will she? Because she loves this city. He tells her she’s got a heart. Burning bright. Burning bright, burning bright. In what distant deeps or skies burnt the fire of thine eyes? On what wings dare he aspire? What the hand, dare seize the fire? When the stars threw down their spears and watered heaven with their tears did he smile his work to see? Did he who made the lamb make thee?
After standing atop a building and seeing the death and despair from the residents in the streets of Madripoor, Daken makes his way through the rain to a car. Daken tells the occupant inside, Malcolm Colcord, that he’s been a very busy man. Colcord responds not as busy as him. He must admit, he never thought it would be so simple to turn Madripoor into a lawless pile of rubble. But he did it overnight. Bravo. It’s perfect. No one’s minding the store.
Daken states that he’s watching the store. He’s watching everything, including him. Putting his hand on Colcord’s chin, Daken says to him that he’s been holding out on him from the beginning. First, with his development of a healing factor serum, which wasn’t part of their agreement. And now he’s met the freak clone of his father… who happens to want his head on her claws. She seems to think that he’s rebuilding the Weapon X project. On his dime. He agreed to set him up in Madripoor. Supply him with a staff. All the test subjects he needed for one reason only. To take him to the next level. To imbue him with power beyond Weapon X. Not make more soldiers for his own games.
Colcord asks that X-23 is in Madripoor. After Daken asks him if he heard a word he said, Colcord tells him that he doesn’t care what he said. He is doing exactly what he asked. He can’t reach the necessary conclusions if the subjects keep dying. That is why he developed the serum. Daken says he’s lying. Colcord replies maybe. But he also knows he’s the only one who can give him what he wants. So he needs to let him do this, on his terms. Daken thinks to himself “on his terms?” He’s already given him everything he wants. Too much already.
Colcord adds that as for X-23, that is an interesting development. The Facility turned her into one of the finest assassins in the world. Absolutely ruthless. Daken says to him that it seems to him that she’s now off the leash and very determined to kill him. Colcord states that it wouldn’t be the first time a member of his family tried to take his life. He chooses to look at this as an opportunity. X-23’s genetics, combined with her healing factor, make her the perfect test subject. Give her to him, and he might have a solution to his problem in weeks, as opposed to months. In the meantime, he’ll trust him to protect him. Daken tells him that he can’t be everywhere at once. And this is Madripoor. Bad things happen there all the time.
Just then, a car explodes nearby. The reason – Gambit – who remarks very bad things happen indeed. Daken proceeds to tell Gambit and X-23 that they wanted him, take him. As Colcord begins to call Daken a son of a…, X-23 tells him to be quiet. With Colcord being held captive by X-23, Daken mentions to her that he knew she was following him. X-23 tells him only because she let him. He is easily deceived. X-23 then turns her attention to Colcord and punches him to the ground. Colcord calls X-23 a little girl and that she doesn’t frighten him. She’s nothing. She was weaned on the steel teats of syringes and probing hands. She was raised like an animal, and that’s all she’ll ever be. She’s a clone, not a person.
Grabbing hold of Colcord’s hand, X-23 tells him that he’s going to talk. He will tell her everything he knows. Colcord says no, she’ll kill him either way. X-23 says yes, but it is the difference between a slow death and a quick one. She was trained to skin a man alive. Just the top layer. Like an onion. She likes to start with the nails. That is how they always started with her. The men like him, who trained her. After using her claws to remove some of his fingernails, X-23 remarks that they tortured her with these same techniques. So that she would know exactly what to do, and how it feels. When Colcord asks if this is payback, X-23 puts her claws to his neck and says not yet.
As Gambit looks on, Daken asks him “cheap thrills?” Gambit tells him that he can think of better experiments. Smiling, Daken says so can he. He adds that she’s going to be busy for a while. Putting his hand on Gambit’s, Daken says that gives them time to talk. He could use… a man like him. Gambit asks him always the opportunist? Daken tells him that he knows a good thing when he sees it… and he’s heard so much about him. Him, and his dark past. Pretending to be an X-Man, when what he is is a criminal. He thinks they’d be the perfect fit.
Gambit asks “does he?” He likes bad men? When Daken answers very much so, Gambit says good, pulls away from him, and jams his staff into Daken’s neck. After Daken falls to his knees on the ground, Gambit leans down and tells him that he’s known men like him all his life. Even worked for some a time or two, when he was young an’ stupid. Predators, all of them. Daken asks and he’s not. He doesn’t walk this earth, smug in the knowledge that he’s got power most people never dream of? He knows he does. With that, Daken pops his claws. Powering up his cards, Gambit replies that he can’t lie. Crosses his mind, sometimes. But that power’s nothin’ but an opportunity… to make things right.
Preparing to face off against each other in battle, Daken angrily calls Gambit a pretty boy. Gambit says prettier than him and proceeds to hit Daken in his face with his staff. Shaking off the blow, Daken says funny. He then asks Gambit if he really thinks anything that happens today will make him a better man. Everyone knows exactly what he is. A man who would betray a friend at the drop of a hat or for a little bit of righteousness. He’ll do the same to her one day and he’ll tell himself it’s okay.
Grabbing hold of Daken’s fist, Gambit tells him that he will shut his mouth and then uses his power to send a surge of electricity through Daken’s body. Standing over his fallen foe, Gambit says to him that he knows he didn’t give Colcord up from the kindness of his heart. What’s his game? Daken tells him that he might not want to waste his time prying the secret from his lips. Not when time is exactly what X-23 has run out of. Turning around, Gambit sees X-23 laying on the ground in a heap and Colcord standing over her. Before he can react, Daken punches Gambit in the back of his head and knocks him out. He then says to him mais oui, idiot.
Colcord proceeds to ask Daken that he couldn’t have given him more warning. Daken tells him that he gave him the syringe. Be thankful he gave him that. Colcord replies if he says so and asks if he has a car. Daken says of course. He has everything. At that moment, a police car pulls up and Colcord and Daken dump X-23’s unconscious body in the trunk.


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Collision: Part 4: Conclusion
As Daken and X-23 stand side by side and face off against Colcord’s monstrous experiments, Daken thinks to himself that blood will have blood. Blood, alone, moves this world. Blood in the veins. Blood spilled. Bonds made in blood. He never expected this. He never expected her. Colcord was right. She is superb. He doesn’t know how that makes him feel. Maybe he doesn’t want to know…
Just then, one of the monsters attacks Daken and wounds him severely. When X-23 notices it, she pushes Daken into a room that is also housing two Weapon X scientists. Daken begins to disagree but X-23 tells him that he is too wounded to fight. They will tear him apart. As Daken tells her she’s out of her mind, the heavy metal door shuts behind him.
When the door opens again, Daken is fully healed and he sees X-23 kneeling on the ground. He asks her what she’s doing and X-23 tells him that the monsters were children. She killed children. After Daken asks her “so?,” X-23 tells him it matters. Daken tells her that’s what pretending to be a hero does to you. It makes you soft. Removing his mask, he adds that it was a monster. Mindless. Less of a child than even she is.
X-23 states that perhaps that was what it became. But that was not its fault. She then tells Daken to look at the red in the pupils. She has seen something like this before; in her eyes. After a trigger scent was used to induce a mindless, killing rage. She thinks all these… people… were exposed to something similar. It was not enough to alter their bodies. Their minds had to be controlled, as well… The same could be done to him. He knows the power a simple scent can have over someone. You become a puppet. You lose all control. You lose your identity and your power. With a determined look on his face, Daken puts his mask back on and begins to leave the room. When X-23 asks him where he’s going, Daken informs her that he’s going to find Malcolm Colcord. X-23 simply replies “good.”
Inside a control room, an unknown person asks their contact on the other end of the line if they are at a safe distance. When the answer comes back in the positive, the unknown person puts a syringe inside a case and replies excellent. They then add to remember what they told them. They’ll see them when they can. The project will continue.
In the halls in the compound, a guard tells Daken and X-23 to s-stay right there or they’ll… Before he can finish his thought, Daken slices his head off. Continuing to head down the hall and encountering more guards, Daken thinks to himself that he can feel her beside him. He feels her instinct. Both of them, together. Born to kill. Effortless. What does that mean? What does it mean… that he likes it?
Moving down another hallway, Colcord asks the guards that surround him if they set the bomb. The guard confirms that he did and that they only have a few minutes. They set enough explosives to destroy… everything. Just then, Colcord and his guards find themselves face to face with Daken and X-23. Daken asks Colcord about the bomb and proceeds to slice the guards heads off, much to Colcord’s concern. Grabbing hold of his neck, Daken says to him that this must be déjà vu for him. If he didn’t know better, he’d think he likes being cut by his family.
X-23 interjects and asks Colcord if there are any other… experiments… in the facility. Colcord replies that they killed them all. Thank you, by the way. They saved him the trouble of destroying them himself. They were all defective. X-23 states that she wants to find the bomb. Daken says to her that surely she doesn’t want to disable it. When X-23 replies no, she does not, Daken lets Colcord down and tells him that he heard her. Let’s go find the bomb.
In short time, Colcord, X-23 and Daken find the bomb. Seeing that there is 2 minutes and 1 second left on the timer, Daken remarks that they found it with time to spare. Colcord informs them to remove the blue wire to disable the device. Daken asks what’s the rush? Turning to X-23, he asks her if she has any place to be. X-23 answers no. Concerned, Colcord asks that they’re not going to shut down the bomb?
His pleas are ignored when Daken tells Laura that he’s curious about something. He wants to know why. When X-23 asks why what, Daken asks why she limits herself. With 59 seconds left on the timer, X-23 tells Daken that she doesn’t understand his question. Daken remarks that he supposes that answers it. She was raised to be a killer, and she is. It’s in her genes. She’s good at it. By all accounts, that’s all she should aspire to be. And yet, she cares, she has… a heart. He doesn’t know why. X-23 asks what that has to do with limiting herself. Daken answers because caring… is weakness. All these people? They are beneath her. She could take any life in an instant. Her power could be absolute and breathtaking. Grabbing his arm, X-23 tells Daken that she knows.
As the two of them leave Colcord kneeling on the floor, Daken again asks X-23 why she is holding back. X-23 tells him that what she has to prove has nothing to do with power. Before she can expand on her answer, the bomb explodes, engulfing them in the blast.
Outside the facility, Gambit and Tyger Tiger look on in shock as the building explodes. Gambit proceeds to ask Tyger if she’s sure she’s in there. Tyger says that’s what her sources told her. Just then, they see the charred, but alive, bodies of Daken and X-23 emerging from the rubble. Upon seeing Daken, Tyger calls him an idiot. Daken asks her what. Did she think she was coming to his funeral? Tyger says no. She figures that’s a miracle she’ll have to earn.
X-23 tells Daken that she has a question. Daken informs her that Colcord is dead but X-23 says that isn’t the question. She asks him why he limits himself. Daken asks what she means; he doesn’t. X-23 says he cares about power, but that is something he already has. Power comes easy to him. But he chooses not to care. He limits his heart. She doesn’t know why. Unless he thinks caring for others is more dangerous than seeking power. Daken answers that maybe he doesn’t have a heart. As he walks away, Gambit stops X-23 from going after him. Starting to heal, Daken says maybe power is all he has. Or all he needs.
Standing on the docks, Gambit says to X-23 and Tyger that the city is still beautiful. Tyger remarks that it takes its knocks and keeps on fighting. Like Laura. It was good to meet her. She wishes it could have been under better circumstances. Laura says they are alive. The circumstances are fine. When Tyger asks Gambit where he will go, he replies Paris. Gambit invites her to come along, to which Tyger asks if he means give up. She then tells him no. Daken isn’t going to beat her. Madripoor is still hers. Gambit says to her that the next time he comes back, he’ll expect to be reminded of that. Grabbing hold of Gambit, Tyger says that’s a promise and kisses him. When Gambit asks why, Tyger tells him that she’s always wanted to taste him.
Aboard their vessel, Gambit and Laura begin to leave Madripoor. When Gambit asks her what she’s thinking about, Laura tells him blood. She adds that Daken is Wolverine’s son, and he is a killer. She is Wolverine’s clone. She is also a killer. Gambit tells her that’s not all she is. Laura replies she knows. She makes her fate.
Inside a building somewhere in Madripoor, Daken sits in front of a horribly disfigured Malcolm Colcord, who is handcuffed to a radiator. He thinks to himself that fate is ripe for the taking if you have the right intent. Daken then asks Colcord if he really thought he wouldn’t know. Of course he injected himself with the healing factor serum. He’s sure that was his plan all along. Maybe he never even wanted to start another Weapon X project. He just wanted bodies to perfect the serum on. For himself. Maybe to sell. Whatever.
Colcord very weakly says something, causing Daken to lean in and ask him to repeat it. Hearing this time, Daken tells him that it won’t be that easy. He’s not going to kill him. What would be the fun in that? With that, Daken looks the door and begins to leave the building. As he makes his way to the street, he passes by a drunk and a young child. He asks himself what the fun would be in living without these games. What else is there? What else matters? It’s good to be on top. On top of the world. On top of life. It’s good to be him.


[User]
<image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image><image>
Provide a full summary of the comic book.

[Assistant]
Big Break: Part 1
“Each time an actor acts, he does not hide… he exposes himself.” Rodney Dangerfield
In Los Angeles, Daken is dressed in a Captain America mask and fires a rocket launcher at a nearby helicopter. Along with other individuals dressed in Captain America masks, Daken and his accomplices attack the military troops standing in front of them. As he does, Daken says here’s a note for the hopeful wannabe coming out to Hollywood to make your mark… first impressions are just so important. After all, there is an enormous amount of competition out there. So many seeking stardom. The obstacles to success in one’s path are daunting, to say the least. So, you have to ask yourself… how, exactly, is he going to get himself noticed?
Making it to the armored car, Daken prepares to crack into it but then suddenly grabs his chest. Pulling a pill, the Heat, out of his pocket, Daken notices that the withdrawals are getting closer. He swore he wouldn’t before the heist, but… %$#& it. Removing his mask, Daken downs the Heat. Smiling, he asks what’s a healing factor for? Right? Oh… Just then, Daken’s entire view on life goes crazy. He says oh god. The door… He knows… He doesn’t want to know… what’s behind that door.
Seven days ago, in the Hollywood Hills, Daken is attending a party. Looking around, Daken sees people. Beautiful, perfect people. Actor, directors, musicians, agents, executives, writers, even… How deeply bored he is by them all. How easy it would be for him to kill everyone in the room.
On a couch, Daken is in between a young blonde woman and a young man. The woman points out to Daken that he’s smiling, good. She wants to make him smile. The man remarks that they could both make him smile. Hell, all three of them could smile a lot. He introduces himself as Glenn and tells them that he has the Heat pills. What say they… Before Glenn can finish his sentence, Daken gets up, eats the three pills and informs Glenn to read a book all the way to the end without needing to lie down afterwards and then he’d smile.
Making his way down the hallway, Daken remarks that he’s so tired of this. He’s been in L.A. for two weeks. He was given the impression that, since the Pride fell, Los Angeles was there for the taking. But persons unknown appear to have taken it. It’s slightly difficult to kill your way to the top when you don’t know who to kill. His fixer tells him the owner of this little soiree, Marcus Roston, star of screen and Botox, has certain connections but he’s yet to spot…
Upon reaching a door, two bodyguards stop Daken in his tracks. They inform him A-list inside, rest of the alphabet outside. Mr. Roston’s party, Mr. Roston’s rules. When Daken says he’s big time, trust him, one of the bodyguards approaches him and tells him he doesn’t recognize him. With a quick move, Daken proceeds to break the bodyguard’s nose. Just then, Daken grabs his head and begins to fall to the ground. He remembers the pills and asks what was in them. Laughing, he says thank you. He is Jim Morrison reincarnated and they actually found something that works on his healing fac…
Before he can finish his thought, Daken is punched out by the other bodyguard. Lying on the ground, Daken remarks the pills… Heat. They beat the healing factor… they… they actually work… With that, Daken blacks out.
Outside, a man wearing the same shoes that Daken was originally wearing asks the man standing in front of him that his name is Glenn. He said his name was Glenn. Is he right? Is he an actor, an up-and-comer? The shirtless man standing in the rain, Glenn confirms that he has a pilot coming… coming… %$#&… fall schedule. The “man” says to him that most TV pilots don’t get picked up. They don’t… survive. He then tells Glenn to run.
As Glenn runs, the man counts eight… nine… ten… He loves this game. Sixteen… seventeen… Ready or not… here he… comes. Just then Glenn finds himself face to face with his attacker. He tells him the thing about being chemically influenced is that it can alter your perception. Make you see things that might not actually be there. And it can show you hints of an individual’s true nature. What Glenn sees of his attacker is a large monster with long, sharp nails. When Glenn tries to run away, he loses his footing, tumbles down a hill, and narrowly misses being hit by a car.
Once his attacker catches back up to him, he asks Glenn if he wants to know one of his favorite Woody Allen lines. He’s probably paraphrasing here, but he says, “Hollywood is worse than dog eat dog. It’s dog doesn’t return other dog’s phone calls.” That’s pretty funny. But he’s wrong, it’s dog eats dog. With that, the “monster” kills Glenn with a swipe of his sharp claws.
The next day, a number of cops and detectives are on the scene where Glenn was murdered. One of the detectives tells his buddy Peter that it’s bad enough he has to see his inspiring face first thing in the mornin’ but now they got this kinda crime scene? Peter replies that it’s enough to make a sensitive Irishman hurl. His buddy proceeds to ask him if he knows any sensitive Irishmen.
Just then, Peter whispers to his partner code red, Narnia, Narnia! When his buddy asks that he’s %$*&%#& kidding? Peter states that he is not. She’s here. In all her warm’ n’ friendly glory… FBI agent Donna Kiel. As Donna approaches the scene, Peter says what he could use right now is some Turkish delight. His buddy agrees. He loves that sickly &$%#.
Peter then asks Agent Kiel if she likes Turkish delight. With a stern face, Donna tells Baxter and Rodriguez that while she’s enormously impressed that they’ve read books, albeit children’s ones… spare her the men’s room crap. Turkish delight. She’s the Ice Queen of Narnia because she’s so cold. She gets their complicated little shtick. She then asks them that they worked with Arthur Scherbius for a while, didn’t they? When Peter asks “huh?” Donna informs them that Scherbius designed the first enigma code machine in Germany in the 1920s. Forget it. Same as the other Beverly Hills killings, same weapon, same little nasty murder fetish… claws.
In another location, Daken wakes up. When he does, Marcus Roston states that, for what it’s worth, he’s glad he didn’t die. An O.D. corpse at your party and you can forget about Middle America showing up for your latest romcom with Jennifer Aniston. He introduces himself as Marcus Roston. This is his house.
Daken says he knows who he is. He’s rather famous and the current Hollywood himbo du jour for the ladies. Holding his head, he remarks those pills… Marcus asks him they’re good, right? That’s Heat. They’re the latest big thing around there. People like the latest big thing. And guess what? He hasn’t the slightest clue who he is. Which means he’s not a big thing. He’s not even a thing. So, get the hell out of his house before his boys throw his weak constitution out on the…
Before Marcus can finish his sentence, Daken quickly and easily takes out both of Marcus’ bodyguards, much to his surprise. With fear in his eyes, Marcus tells Daken let’s not get crazy here, what does he want. Daken says to him that he’s surprisingly short in reality, isn’t he? Marcus asks does he want money? Is that it? He’s got money. He can give him money. Daken says money would be nice. He supposes he does want that. Power too. Validation. He does know what that means, doesn’t he? He then tells Marcus to look at him. He’s a very powerful Hollywood player, so he reads on Deadline. And here he suddenly seems to have power over him. What an odd thing.
Marcus begs Daken not to hurt him. Just tell him what he wants. After lifting up his gun, Daken proceeds to give Marcus a kiss. In short time, Daken and Marcus are laying next to each other in bed. Daken informs Marcus that he wants a lot of things. He wants to know everything about his connections in the Los Angeles crime scene. He wants him to tell him where to find these people. And he wants more of those pills. A lot more of those pills.
Inside her office building, Donna Kiel holds a photograph of Glenn Ryan, 21, born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. He moved out there 18 months ago. Just one less wannabe actor in L.A.. Cut up into little pieces. Nothing left of him to save. Just then, Donna enters a room that has a number of pictures and articles about Daken. There are also a number of notes that read “Fashion conscious, vain, narcissistic” “Check with Interpol” “Possible connections – Tyger Tiger?” “Origin of tattoo?” “Claw marks at scene” “Osborn’s Avengers.” Looking at the wall, Donna remarks Daken Akhiro. Boom.