"President of the United States? Why would you even suggest something like that?" Captain America's voice trembled in disbelief. A soldier from birth, Steve Rogers had never once imagined himself as a political figure, let alone the leader of an entire nation. His entire life had been dedicated to defending America—not ruling it. Politics had never been his battlefield.
"I'm just a soldier," he said, shaking his head. "How could I possibly lead a country? And besides, the government just branded me a traitor. Who would trust me now—who would even want to?"
Marcus raised a finger and wagged it lightly, interrupting him with a calm, knowing smile. "You're wrong, Captain. There are far more people willing to follow you than you realize. In fact, I'd bet my life that if you went on air right now and gave a speech, millions—millions—would rally behind you. Don't underestimate your influence. To most Americans, you represent something the government no longer does—integrity. The riots, the silence, the uncertainty—it's all because their symbol has gone missing. If you reappeared, even for a moment, the entire nation would shift."
Marcus wasn't exaggerating—and they both knew it. In the hearts of the American people, Steve Rogers was the embodiment of the American spirit. He had once moved entire armies to defy orders, to fight for what was right, not what was commanded. He had turned the tide of battles with a single speech, inspired revolutions with a single act. If the people were asked to choose one person they still trusted—one person worth following—it would be him.
If Captain America entered the political stage, the entire country would tremble.
"Then tell me," Steve asked, his tone turning sharp. "Why should I take that position? Why become president, just to serve a government that's already rotten to the core?"
Marcus answered instantly, his tone level and deliberate: "Because you need it—and so does America. You're right, the government is corrupt, perhaps beyond redemption. But there's no other force strong enough—or ready—to replace it. Without leadership, the United States will fall into chaos. And if that happens, only two paths remain: complete anarchy… or a mutant regime led by Magneto and his followers. For all its flaws, the current system is still the backbone of America's stability. You need the government's structure to govern; the government needs your reputation to survive. You both complete each other."
Steve fell silent. For a long moment, he said nothing—just clenched his fists and stared at the floor. He hated to admit it, but Marcus was right.
He had seen enough of politics to know that even the dirtiest politicians played a part in maintaining order. Without them, without structure, without bureaucracy—no amount of heroism could keep the country standing. A team of superheroes could save lives, yes—but they could never run a nation.
Finally, he exhaled deeply and muttered, "Damn it… you're right. I know what the people need. But after all that's happened, do you really think those same politicians will accept me—their so-called traitor—as president?"
Marcus chuckled. "You'd be surprised how quickly politicians change sides when survival's on the line. The government is desperate for someone who can calm the chaos, someone the public still believes in. You're the perfect candidate. All it takes is one negotiation, and I guarantee the next press conference will feature your official pardon—and your candidacy announcement. They forged evidence to condemn you; imagine what they'll forge to redeem you."
Steve allowed himself a wry smile. "Yeah… they never did care much about honesty."
Marcus smirked. "Now you're getting it."
There was a pause. Then Marcus turned, already losing interest in the conversation. "Well, that's all I needed to say. Go do what you believe is right, Captain."
Before Steve could respond, Marcus vanished in a blur of shadow and wind, leaving nothing but silence behind.
Blink, who had been quietly observing from the corner, folded her arms and frowned. "You two finished your little secret meeting? If he had somewhere important to be, I could've at least teleported him there myself."
Steve didn't answer—his mind was still reeling.
Meanwhile, far away, a Stark Industries gunship descended through the smoky clouds. Its side door opened slowly, and the Scarlet Witch, sat inside waiting.
Marcus climbed aboard, brushing dust from his sleeves.
"From the look on your face," Wanda said with a sly grin, "I'm guessing everything went according to plan?"
"He didn't have a reason to refuse," Marcus replied, settling into his seat.
Wanda tilted her head. "I still don't get it," she admitted. "If your goal is to destabilize America, wouldn't it be easier to let the government collapse entirely? Why make Captain America a president?"
Marcus actually laughed at that—a low, amused sound that filled the cabin. "You really think Captain America can actually run a country?" he asked, his voice laced with irony. "You think putting him in charge will make things better?"
Wanda frowned, then bit her lip thoughtfully. "Honestly? No. He's a great leader in battle, but as a head of state? He's too idealistic. Too… pure."
"Exactly." Marcus clapped his hands softly, like a teacher praising a clever student. "He's the living symbol of the American dream—of what people wish their country was. But symbols aren't meant to rule; they're meant to blind. Unless he willingly becomes a puppet for the same politicians he despises…"
He leaned back in his seat, eyes glinting faintly in the dim red light of the cabin.
"…he's going to learn the true taste of reality."