Xu Wenwu thought for a moment before explaining.
"Ying Li regained the Dragon's Heart she once relinquished. That power is formidable, carrying the legacy of all who awakened it before. But because Shang-Chi only just awakened his Dragon's Heart, he hasn't inherited that accumulated strength. His growth will take time."
Smith Dole nodded, realization dawning. No wonder Shang-Chi, who in the films appeared average, could suddenly rival Wenwu once the Dragon's Heart awoke, even seizing control of the Ten Rings—and later, with the Ten Rings themselves, blasting apart the Soul-Eater that even Ta Lo's Guardian Dragon could only seal.
Understanding this, Smith didn't object further.
"If Shang-Chi has the strength, let him compete. But remember—this project is under Eddie Brock. Forming a superhero team is no trivial matter. He won't bend easily."
Wenwu smiled.
"Leader, Shang-Chi will earn his place with ideals, strength, and conviction. I'm not here for shortcuts, only to report our return and what we've gained."
Smith gave a nod and dismissed him.
Not long after, Wenwu met with Eddie Brock privately. What they discussed remained unknown. But soon, Shang-Chi's name surged upward on the recruitment site.
As an Asian face, his rise was striking. With the full force of the Ten Rings and the Golden Dagger Club behind him, armies of people were invited to register and cast votes. His campaign stormed through the ranks.
His promotional video carried ideals crafted from the League of Assassins' philosophy—refined, polished, and broadcast to the world.
······
A month passed swiftly.
The Seven's recruitment neared its end. Eddie Brock entered Smith Dole's office.
"Boss, here are the top six by votes. I intend to select three from them for the final team."
Smith glanced over the list: Shang-Chi, Daredevil Matt, Firebrand Chen Haoran, Frost Nigel, Iron Fist Danny Rand, Black Panther T'Challa.
"What about Kingo of the Eternals? Didn't he push ahead early?" Smith asked.
"He did," Eddie explained. "But his fanbase plateaued. He finished in the top ten, not the top six."
"And Daredevil? Still holding strong?" Smith mused.
"After revealing his true identity, his popularity soared. A blind lawyer and hero—people rallied behind him."
Smith understood. The public adored stories of perseverance.
"So, what's your plan?"
Eddie laid it out.
"Boss, for the final event, I propose you, Tony Stark, and Ivan Vanko serve as judges. The six will showcase their powers and declare their beliefs."
"My idea is to divide them into pairs:
Shang-Chi vs. Danny Rand.
Daredevil vs. Black Panther.
Firebrand vs. Frost.
Each duel avoids overlapping abilities. It ensures the Seven remain distinct, each with unique flair."
Smith considered. The logic was sound. Fire and ice were clearly from S.H.I.E.L.D.'s hand—Chen from the field, Nigel their Academy prodigy. If one was Hydra instead, Smith would root him out later.
"Fine," Smith agreed. "Proceed."
······
The final selection day arrived.
At the Red Ribbon Group arena, Smith Dole, Tony Stark, and Ivan Vanko sat as judges.
To Smith's surprise, the emcee who strode onstage was none other than the World Martial Arts Tournament announcer. Eddie had brought him back from retirement, a familiar voice to herald a new age.
"After fierce competition and global voting," the announcer boomed, "we present the top six contenders! Today, before the greatest heroes—God! Iron Man! Whiplash!—three will be chosen to join Selene the Nightstalker, Alexei the Red Guardian, Michael the Night Wolf, and Wesley the Spear Emperor. Together, they shall form the Seven—champions of justice!"
Smith chuckled. Eddie certainly had a flair for spectacle.
······
(End of Chapter)
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