How we cite our quotes: All quotations are from The Avengers.
Quote #7
BLACK WIDOW: Nick Fury seems to trust you. But now I need you to come in.
BRUCE BANNER: What if I said no?
BLACK WIDOW: I'll persuade you.
BRUCE BANNER: And what if the... other guy says no?
BLACK WIDOW: You've been more than a year without an incident. I don't think you want to break that streak.
BRUCE BANNER: I don't get always what I want.
Look at this dialogue from the perspective of who has the power. As long as Dr. Banner stays Dr. Banner, the Black Widow is holding the cards. But he's got a big green ace in the hole, and while he may be bluffing with it, he warns her that he may not have a say in whether it gets played. Tread carefully, Ms. Romanoff.
Quote #8
STEVE ROGERS: Fury didn't tell me he was calling you in.
TONY STARK: Yeah, there's a lot of things Fury doesn't tell you.
We talked about how characters without power—or specific super powers—assert themselves. Nick Fury has a Helicarrier, but he's really just a man. So in order to keep a handle on the demi-gods and super soldiers, he collects information. Leverage is power…and Fury knows just how to use it.
Quote #9
LOKI: Please tell me you're going to appeal to my humanity.
TONY STARK: Uh, actually I'm planning to threaten you.
LOKI: You should have left your armor on for that.
TONY STARK: Yeah. It's seen a bit of mileage and you've got the Glow-stick of destiny. Would you like a drink?
LOKI: Stalling me won't change anything
TONY STARK: No, no no: threatening! No drink? You sure? I'm having one.
Again, while Tony has power, it doesn't match Loki's. And yet, he's moving in to assert control over the villain du jour: partly through sheer bluster, but also because he feels like he can leverage Loki by talking to him.