Superverse

Chapter 1 - Friend or Foe?

10:23 Captain_America: This evening, I am supposed to meet up with a representative from the League of Assassins as my first assignment with SHIELD.
After the Secretary of Defense had contacted me personally with the request that I join SHIELD, I had done some research on this group. I was impressed, very impressed. SHIELD was composed of a select group of elite special forces, agents, a research team full of some of the brightest minds in the world, the best of the best, everyone selected because they are top of their field. Their mission was to protect the United States, and the world, from super-normal threats. And they wanted to recruit me.

Ever since I was recovered from my half century long nap, trapped in the arctic ice, awakening to a world I hardly recognize any longer, I have felt lost, without a purpose. During WWII, Dr. Erskine and General Phillips had given me a purpose when they had chosen me for Project: Rebirth. I hadn't been the strongest, the fittest, or the fastest, far from it, I was the runt of the litter. But they both swore I was more fit for the job than any of the others they had interviewed. I can't speak to that. All I can say is when I saw what the Nazis were up to, I had to fight. I had to. For my friends. For my family. For my country. For people in countries I would never know. I had to fight to protect them. It was a fire in my heart that could not, would not be clenched.

When I had been injected with the super soldier serum, when I had emerged from the Vita-Ray chamber, with Dr. Erskine at my side, it was only just in time. For even there, in that top secret lab, the Nazis had infected and spread their corruption. Even before I had a chance to adapt to my newfound strength, speed, reflexes, agility, endurance, greater than the most accomplished Olympic athlete the world had or would ever know, I had to fight.

But even so, it was not enough.. Dr. Erskine had been killed, and with him died the formula that had created me and with him died the hope of creating an army to stop the Nazis. There was only me. I would have to be enough. I was put through an intensive physical and tactical training program,teaching me gymnastics, hand-to-hand combat and military strategy. I threw myself into my training with every fibre of my being. At last, this was my chance to serve, to protect, to stop the evil war machine that threatened to engulf the world in flames.

The war was long and bitter, and despite my great gifts, many of my friends and fellow soldiers were lost along the way. Every loss hurt, every loss was a bitter pill to swallow, but also... every loss gave me greater purpose to fight even harder so that their sacrifice would NEVER be in vain. I carried with me the spirit of every soldier that had fallen in this terrible war.

I had been trained in the use of every modern weapon, my marksmanship was superb, I was skilled in demolitions, explosives, the correct use of grenades, but my primary weapon, the one I preferred above all others was the shield that had been gifted to me by the War Department, the unique creation of Dr. Maclain, a round shield styled in red, white, and blue concentric rings, with a white star in the centre, constructed of an exotic alloy, Vibranium and Adamantium combined. I had trained in the use of my shield religiously, and it was dearer to me than my strong right hand, and often more deadly than a sidearm or a rifle.

My shield was almost totally indestructible by any means our modern science could devise, and I had trained myself to use it as a projectile, bouncing it off surfaces and angling it's launch with my heightened sense of spatial awareness so that it would always return to my hand once it's job had been completed.

And eventually, me and the elite team of brothers in arms who supported me, tracked down the insidious Red Skull, the mastermind of Germany's evil prowess. He had been delving deep, deep into the occult as well as bizarre scientific advances that threatened to unleash horrors on the world. But finally, he had been defeated, by my own hand and shield, he had been laid low, though the cost was great. Our final battle aboard an airplane ended in both salvation and disaster. Salvation for the world, but disaster for me. The plane crashed into the artic sea, their final plan to drop a devastating bomb on Washington foiled, but left me frozen for nearly half a century until I was discovered.

The greatest cost however, was the many soldiers who died to secure this victory. Many of them were close personal friends. It was a heavy burden that I would always bear, stained by the blood of my friends who sacrificed themselves to ensure the freedom of others. I was not worthy of their sacrifice, but I would fight on to the very end, to my last drop of life if need be to keep my nation, to keep the world safe.

But that was the problem..... Here, in this new modern world, I was lost, without a purpose. The threats the world faced today were nothing like the world I had known. Strange powers, mutants with extraordinary abilities and devious ends. So many secrets and hidden plots.

Yet I trained hard, every day, pushing myself further, building myself stronger. And ... I heard rumours, rumours of the rising power of HYDRA. Born out of the ashes of the Red Skull’s supporters. The group had been laying low for many years, re-building their power base. Once again, they were threatening the security of the world. I knew first hand what they were capable of. I was ready to stand against them, to do my part, to once more bring my shield to bear in the defense of freedom.

I gladly accepted the Defense Secretary’s offer to join SHIELD. I needed a purpose again. Tracking down and rooting out HYDRA before they could get established was what I needed to do. My first assignment was to track down HYDRA’s new base of operations here in North America.

The intelligence arm of SHIELD had come up with a possible lead. One of the most prominent members of the League of Assassins, a one Blake Macmillian, was rumored to have certain connections that would enable him to track down HYDRA. It was risky, even for a super soldier like myself, but it was our best lead. The League sold their services to the highest bidder, and at times SHIELD might find themselves in conflict with one of the league’s assassins, and at other times they might call on their services. It was always risky though. The League had its own agenda, and they were not above double-crossing their clients to achieve their ends.

I was due to head out this afternoon, but first I finished my morning run, my favorite jogging route around the National Mall. After I had done about 150 laps, and was only just beginning to break a sweat, since my body is superbly efficient at eliminating the build-up of toxins related to fatigue, it was time to go.

I showered, scrubbing my hard, battle-forged super soldier muscle clean, preparing myself for this meeting. I wanted to look my part for this encounter. It was in a night club located in a less reputable part of New York. Can’t say it’s the kind of place I’d go to relax, but this was business.

I dressed in a simple pair of gray slacks, a simple button-up white shirt, and a pair of dress shoes. In truth, I didn't own much finery, preferring the simple attire that reflected my own working-class background. I had put on even more weight since I had acquired this outfit, and I was afraid I wouldn't be able to button up my shirt over the hard, thick layers of muscle that had been added to my powerful arms and granite-hard chest.

But the biggest problem was trying to get the slacks on over my legs. My quads were the size, strength and thickness of steel-reinforced concrete pillars, and I was sure the seams along my slacks were going to split, but somehow I managed to fit into my clothing, even though the way my muscles threatened to burst out of my clothing was embarrassing. I simply had no time to find more modest attire.

I was traveling incognito of course. I left my shield and battle uniform behind. I hated traveling without my shield. I always felt naked. I caught the train from Washington DC to New York in good time, and stepped off the platform. I caught the subway to Brooklyn, where the night club was located. I entered the night club, my eyes taking in the flashing neon lights, the wide range of people moving in and out. Some of them were dressed like me, but some were wearing far more exotic clothes. And some were wearing very little clothes at all. The music was deafening, the dance floor crowded with bodies moving in time to what they called music. The world had really changed, and tonight hammered home exactly how much it had changed. I felt lost. How was I going to find Blake in this madhouse?

But I had been assured that my contact would know me by sight. I hoped so. Most men only knew me when I was in my iconic battle uniform, marked with the famous red, white, and blue pattern. But how many people would recognize simple Steve Rogers?

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11:20 Blake_Macmillian: It's been about 6 months since I left the League of Assassins. I still feel the pain of betrayal in my heart. How could a family break up so quickly? How could a belonging change so rapidly? Maybe we knew the answer all along, but none of us wanted to see it or accept it.

I'm Blake Macmillan. At least that's my new name. My old identity was buried deep in the ground with the death of my stepfather. The famous Julius O'Neil, the former leader of the League of Assassins... As a little boy, I didn't realize how lucky I was to be found by a man like him. He never separated me from his elder son Marion and his younger son Arthur, enabling me to gain all of my current abilities. He pushed the limits of my elasticity while I was undergoing rigorous training that would maximize my strength. Besides all of these, he also taught me a special power; a power that he hardly taught anyone. There was a bond between us that no one could understand; A bond that Marlon couldn't understand in the first place.

Marlon was the complete opposite of Julius in character. He had a responsive, excited and dynamic nature, especially in comparision to his father's calm, complete and mature personality. His ambitious character caused him to come at odds with his younger brother Arthur, while causing him to be seen as the new leader by the League's 'repressed' soldiers. With each passing day, the conflicts between Marion and the Julius-Arthur bloc increased. The ruling family of the league was divided even within itself, and I believed for a long time that I could put an end to this trend. Maybe years ago, I should have admitted that I would be inadequate in this regard.

Over the years, these conflicts began to turn into an internal enmity. While Arthur, like his father Julius, believed that the league should be maintained on old principles, Marion thought the League needed innovation. The only appearance of maintaining communication within the family and establishing an apparent intimacy was my close and deep relationship with Marion. Despite our differences, I was the only person in the family that Marion felt close to. His fights with Arthur, though, continued to increase day by day despite my attempts.

Marion's last job did the killing blow to the ruling family of the League of Assassins. Until then, Julius had accepted small assignments from HYDRA, but we had never undertaken anything as large-scaled as Marion had brought. Although at first both I, Julius and Arthur were opposed to this, Marion had managed to execute his insidious plan quite ingeniously. He first convinced me how big the job was, then he sent me to convince Arthur, and eventually Arthur and I got Julius's approval. And it was too late when we became aware of Marion's collusion with HYDRA to take over the league, which led Julius to die after failing to save his young son Arthur, while Arthur was taken prisoner by HYDRA.

And thanks to this job, Marion was left with no barriers to prevent him from taking over the league. And keeping his promises, he completely rebuilt the League of Assassins and completely changed the identity of the federation. Everything went as he wished, except for one thing: He believed that I would stay with him after all the things he had caused. After everything we've been through and shared, Marion thought I couldn't give up on him. He was wrong.

After leaving the League of Assassins, I started doing more research on HYDRA to follow Arthur's footsteps. But I was moving forward with the lessons I learned from Julius: To achieve a goal, you must first learn to be fully camouflaged. So what I was working on right now, was to build Blake Macmillan as an independent bounty hunter.

However, I encountered a strange situation for the first time the other day after this 6-month period. I was offered a job by someone who made the connection between Blake Macmillan and League of Assassins: SHIELD. They weren't exactly favorite clients of both my father and Marion, but they had dealt with the more annoying types. What was even more interesting was the person who was going to meet me: Steve Rogers.

There was a real legend coming back, and I was going to seize the opportunity to meet the Captain America I read as a kid. But despite all my excitement, I had to first understand what they wanted. That's why I told SHIELD that Steve Rogers should come to the address I gave without causing any difficulty.

As you start searching for the me, a beautiful young lady who wears an outfit that marks her as being filipino approaches you, and leans into your ear. "You are Mr. Joshua Bakers, right? Mr. Macmillan is waiting for you in the VIP lounge." And after these words, she leads you to another room where it is much more different than the previous one. First of all, it is less crowded, but you can realize the people who are in this room are not ordinary. They are here for business. There are four dancers in the middle of the room, two male and two female, but most of the participants do not focus on the performers. Instead, they are arguing among each other to reach a settling.

There were 8 people apart from the dancers. 5 of them were standing, and insulting each other about a specific topic, probably slightly related to HYDRA as you notice. They wore outfits similar to yours, kind of casual. The other 3 had separate desks. One was leaning against his chair, watching the argument seriously in his business suit while the other one was not caring too much attention to the argument since he was lost by the alluring bodies of the dancers.

And lastly, the young woman who leaded you here shows me, who is watching the fight in amusement. My feet are propped on the desk, crossed. I am wearing black boots, black jeans, and a black jean-coat that shows the upper-part of my chest. It seems like I didn't realize you yet. She slowly leans into your ear, and points at me. "Ignore the meeting please. You came in a heated moment. Mr. Macmillian is there. He is ready to meet you."

10:23 Captain_America: I was trying to hear myself think over the skull-pounding beat of the dance music when a beautiful young filipino lady gracefully glides up to me and speaks into my ear. I nod once. Clearly, she knew who I was and what I wanted. I followed her carefully, my eyes scanning the room, seeking any sign that this might be a trap. The League of Assassins was far from trustworthy, no matter how much we needed them.

I almost sigh in relief when we leave the main dance floor and the volume of music decreases. My enhanced hearing is far more sensitive to loud noises than the hearing of an average human. I scan my surroundings rapidly, taking in the dancers and the higher quality furnishings in the VIP lounge.

I seem to have walked into some kind of argument. My ears strain to pick up details. I catch a few words here and there. Pretty sure they are talking about HYDRA. Arguing is more like it.

Finally, they lead me to Mr. Macmillan. I size him up. One thing is immediately clear, the assassin is very confident, his feet crossed and resting on his desk. He seems amused at the argument going on in the background rather than concerned. He’s extremely muscular, and I have no doubt he’s exceptionally deadly and well trained.

Cautiously, I approach him, slowly lowering myself into the seat in front of his desk. “You would be Mr. Macmillan. Since you already know who I am, you know why I am here. Will you help me?”

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: I finally saw Steve Rogers next to the woman I had instructed. Damn, he was indeed an incredibly handsome man. No one would have believed that this man had been imprisoned in the ice for a very long time. You slowly sat down on the chair in front of my desk and bent down. It was clear from your words that you wanted to get straight to the point. I slowly tilted my head to the side and locked my eyes with yours. My feet were still on the table.

"Mr. Joshua Bakers... What an honor to meet you..." I had deliberately given you a nickname and had to convince everyone, including the woman next to you. Because this area was a very dangerous place for "heroes" like Captain America, not to mention most of the people who worked for HYDRA around here. The moment they realized your true identity, they were likely to strike. And the safety of my customers has always been my top priority. Russe's attention at the next table, the man in the suit who had just been watching the discussion, immediately turned his attention to us. I slowly got my feet off the table and stood up, licking my lips. While my eyes were still watching your handsome frame and eyes, I gestured to the woman with my hand, implying her to leave us alone.

"As you can see, there is a heated discussion going on here. Let's go to the terrace that opens from the next room." I turned my eyes to Russe once more. He kept his attention on you as if he sensed some kind of danger. "Will be right back boys... I have a guest..." I say into the crowd. Except for Russe and a couple of guys arguing in the middle, hardly anyone paid any attention to us.

I move behind my desk, not looking behind since I am sure you are following me. I write a long code on the keypad behind my desk, and immediately, a hidden door opens which leads to another room, a smaller but well decorated one that resembles a skyscraper office. Making sure you also enter the office, I close the door behind us, and grab a bottle from the desk in the middle of the room. I prepare myself a fruit cocktail as I lock my eyes with you again. "Want a punch, Rogers?" You probably did not trust me, like me, and I didn't think you would accept my offer. But you know, I was a courteous dude.

"As for your words by the way, I don't know what you want exactly. In fact, I am not sure how you did find my connection with the League of Assassins. SHIELD is the first one who found out about that. On top of that, I don't know why I should help you out."

10:23 Captain_America: I caught on, in fact had caught on back on the dance floor, that it was not a good idea to spread the name Steve Rogers around here. Especially not with the kind of talk I was hearing in that nearby argument. As soon as you started talking, I could feel the hairs rise on the back of my neck. The man at the desk next to us was very interested in our conversation. Far too interested for my comfort.

I nod at your suggestion to move somewhere more private, as I slowly rise to my feet. It may look like my movements are casual, but actually, I am ready to spring into instant violence if I need to. I can feel eyes on me as I follow Blake outside, noting the elaborate precautions he took through a hidden door activated by a complex code on a hidden keypad.

Blake clearly liked his privacy. It could be another trap, of course, but if so, I was ready to spring it as I followed him into his luxurious office.

I shake my head at the offer of punch, stating only, “Thanks, but no. It would be wasted on me.” And it would. Alcohol has no effect on my metabolism. I can’t get drunk. I know. I’ve tried.

I seat myself on a plush, comfortable chair as Blake pours himself a drink. Every movement of his is precise, controlled. No wasted motion. The man was very well trained, it showed in every single one of his movements.

I shrug my shoulders as you get to the point. “I’m going to assume since you mentioned SHIELD that we are safe to talk here. As to how we know about your connection, let me just say that the intelligence division of SHIELD keeps close tabs on its friends, and even closer tabs on its enemies. I’m curious, Blake, which category you will end up in.” I smiled at the dangerous assassin. Despite his line of work, there was no denying how handsome the deadly killer was. “As to why you should help me out, well, SHIELD is prepared to pay you the usual fee, but beyond just money, which I’m sure you have no shortage of, to judge by your office here…” I gesture at the richly furnished office, then stop to consider my next words carefully.

“Let me get one thing straight Blake. I don’t like your League. I don’t like what you stand for, or your line of business. If I had the time, I’d devote myself to taking your organization apart. But, I’m also aware that your League has been of assistance to SHIELD in the past. However, as much as I dislike your group, SHIELD, and myself, are completely opposed to HYDRA. Why should you care? To put it bluntly, the kind of mayhem and disruption that HYDRA is planning will be bad for business. Not just the business of your ordinary mom and pop corner shop, but for your business as well.”

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: I shrug my shoulders as you said alcohol has no effect on your body. It may be true, but the drink I was pouring to myself did not contain any since I would never do something like that during the meeting of a contract. I can sense your gaze on me as I fill the elegant glass in my hand, and lean my ass against the desk to face you, ankles crossed once again.

My face hardens a little bit as you do not comment on SHIELD's intelligence service, only explaining they are very good at it. It is clear that they are clever, but I still did not understand where I made my mistake. I was progressing very well so far, but I guess I left a hint somewhere I don't remember for them to make the connection. I was kind of annoyed about that, but I did not express anything to you.

Then you start explaining why I should help you out. The fee that SHIELD is going to pay… Not convincing enough… And as you emphasize, I did not care about money, nor did I need any at the moment. You gesture at the room, and a smile curls on my lips. I nod to your words, taking a sip from my drink as I don't break eye contact, watching your handsome frame attempting to convince me.

Then, you tell your honest thoughts about the League, and I let out a soft, but manly chuckle. You even mention you would try your best to shut it down if you had time. I just shake my head in disbelief, still making fun of you because of your comment. Then you mumble something about the end of the world and my business stuff which doesn't bother me again.

"Apparently your expertise does not only consist of your brute strength, but also your words." I take another sip from my cocktail, and then drop the glass on the desk before crossing my arms on my chest. "But you failed to convince me. Don't take it personally, nobody can convince me if I let them do so."

I sigh deeply as I adjust my clothes, and start to wander around the room, around the chair you are sitting. "Besides, my questions were not meant to understand your intentions. It was meant to understand you to create the contract. Therefore, I can say if you manage to satisfy three of the conditions that I am going to offer, I will help you." After these words, I stand in front of you, and place my hands on either side of the chairs' arms, trapping you in a way with my move. I don't think it would intimidate you, but I still like to express my attitude with my gestures as well.

"First one is the easiest one… Blake Macmillan is not a member of the League of Assassins, nor will he ever be again. Therefore, I am not interested in your ideas about the League; keep them to yourself." I murmur into your face calmly as I stand in my position, checking out your body once again for a very quick moment.

"Second one should not be too challenging for you… I know the location of the HYDRA base that you are searching for, and I can take you there. And when you enter the base, you will try to reach an intel regarding Arthur O'Neil. Don't ask me the reason, because it is none of your business."

Then I slowly take a step back, and check out your face to see your facial expression, giving you a moment to process everything I said before I move on while my left hand goes to the button of my shirt. "My third condition is general for everyone… As you can see, I am a resourceful man. So that it should be obvious to you by now that "clients" are the ones who earn my respect, not me trying to gain their trust. This earning test may seem a bit weird to you, but for someone like you it should be quite interesting as well." I unbutton my shirt, but do not take it off before turning my back in a very quick moment, grab my glass and drink the rest of the cocktail. As I breathe deeply after drinking the last liquid, I turn to you again, and take off my shirt which exposes my muscular abs and pecs, as well as biceps. "I want you to beat me in the fight. If you can, I will let you hire me."

"So, do you accept my terms, Mr. Rogers?"

10:23 Captain_America: As I sit back in the chair and watch Blake sip from his drink, I look relaxed and casual, but nothing could be further from the truth.

I’m a fraction of a second away from exploding into violence, should the need arise. I don’t trust Blake. I don’t trust anyone in this place. As Blake explains the situation, I don’t let my face betray my reactions. Though, the knowledge that Blake is no longer with the League of Assassins is certainly news I wasn’t aware of. SHIELD Intelligence clearly is far from perfect if they missed out on that very important detail.

Then, the Assassin mentions conditions as he moves in, grabbing the arms of my chair, caging me in. My face remains impassive, not intimidated in the least as I stare up into his eyes, my own gaze hard and unblinking. Unafraid.

I felt a sense of relief as Blake confirmed that he did indeed know the location of HYDRA’s North American base, and I filed away the name Arthur O’Neil for later. That was key information.

Tension rose, and my eyes narrowed slightly as Blake began to unbutton his shirt, revealing a hard muscled body that belonged to a Greek god, his shirt hanging open and loosely draped over his fantastic body, speaking the whole time about me earning his respect. My arms clenched slightly on the arms of the chair as he knocked back his cocktail, before completely removing his shirt. I stared up and down the length of his incredible torso.

I’d rarely seen a man quite so defined and cut, from his steel-cut abs to those rock solid pecs, to those baseball hard biceps. Of course I liked what I saw. But I was never one to mix business and pleasure.

Then, I received my first true shock. “You want to fight me before you’ll agree to help me? Are you serious?” I looked up into Blake’s eyes, and I saw that he was very serious indeed.

My look became bemused. Blake wants to fight me, despite knowing that I am not just some average joe on the street, nor even your average soldier.

There was a tension between us… and I was honest enough to admit that part of that tension was sexual. Damn. This mission was getting complicated. I didn’t want to hurt Blake … but, if this was the condition he insisted on, I didn’t see any way around it.

Slowly, I stand up, nodding. “If you want a fight, then it’s a fight you’ll get. Where? Here? I hope this office is insured.”

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: You don't flinch even a bit when I trap you in the chair. God, this guy is indeed the American Dream for many, courageous character hiding behind this fit body. I started to like this Steve Rogers guy already. But seeing your reaction when I say I want you to fight me was priceless. You seemed shocked. I wasn't blaming you though, Captain America isn't someone you want to challenge unless you are the final raid boss.

Then you slowly raise to your feet, you didn't oppose it in any way, but your eyes were suspicious. Maybe you were scared of hurting me in some way, but I didn't mind. My clients should have been worthy enough. Not all of them did beat me of course, but at least I need to make sure and be satisfied about it.

"Insurance? I don't know? Contrary what you have implied, this room does not belong to me." Suddenly, I give you a wink. "Would you like to test it out to see if there is any?" It was feeling pretty nice to play with you, even though this was causing a sexual tension between us. This wouldn't bother me since I have used my manly charm a lot, but I don't know if it were the same for you.

I look at your clothes once again, shirt, dress pants, and dress shoes after taking off my boots as well. Even though you were a big, strong Captain America, I still did not want to damage your sexy body with my boots that would cause trouble during the assignment. Then I shift my eyes towards your gaze, and give you a questioned look as I slowly take my fighting stance. My right barefoot on the forward, my right palm is extended towards your direction while my left hand is a couple of inches away from my own chest. "Will you be able to fight in that outfit?"

10:23 Captain_America: I watched, a bemused expression on my handsome face as Blake assured me that the room wasn’t his, and he didn’t care what happened to it. But what really seemed to shock … and confuse … me, was the way he seemed to be flirting with me.

My upbringing had not prepared me for this. But hell… he was incredibly attractive, that was undeniable. Blake continued his strip tease, removing his shoes, barefoot now, dressed only in his trousers.

I stood there, fixated on the sight of his incredibly muscled body as my would be opponent … or guide … or seducer, not sure which of these he was yet, slid into a very professional fighting stance, his left hand hovering in front of my chest.

When Blake spoke to me, the spell was broken. I nodded slowly. I reached up and carefully unbuttoned my shirt, my hands moving down the rows of tight buttons, shrugging out of the shirt, exposing my powerfully built frame. I wasn’t a big guy, not like a bodybuilder, nor was I cut and shredded like a Greek god, but my muscles were solid, tight and trim, a light sheen of brown hair outlined my powerful chest and solid abs. My body was built to fight, and of course, I had the added benefit of the super soldier serum.

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Smoothly, I kicked off my dress shoes, wearing a pair of black socks underneath. I stepped back, and started to circle Blake slowly. I raised my hands, guarding my head, fists gently bobbing up and down as I turned my body sideways, leading with my left foot, gracefully slicing back and forth.

I nod at Blake. I reach forward with my left fist, offering to “touch” gloves with the assassin as a sign of a friendly fight before we start on this. The things a man has to do in the line of duty…

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: After my question, you nod to my words as a response, and start taking off your clothes. First you go with your shirt, and reveal a very sexy body in front of me. To be fair, I was imagining Captain America to be shredded as hell, ripped with muscles. But it wasn't the case judging by your look. Not that I was disappointed though. You had a very fit frame which still amazed me considerably, but of course, my eyes remain emotionless as you strip down. Only a sly smirk on my expression to tease you a little bit.

Then you take off your shoes as well, and take your own stance while circling me a bit. Wow, this guy is eager to fight. Look how fast he can change into a combat mode. Then you extend your left fist towards my direction for a fist pump. I give another chuckle. Does every hero have to be this graceful and kind always? Talking about principles… I gently extend my right palm towards your fist, and accept your "touch" with a fist before opening my palm again. My left palm is still closer to me.

Then as someone like you can expect from an assassin, I suddenly strike to drag my opponent down while the smile on my face wipes away. My right hand suddenly charges towards your direction, palm aimed directly at your chin. I am pretty sure you have the reflexes and ability to dodge my strike, but I firstly want to see the way you fight and react to the situations. Fighting with Captain America was already challenging enough, but I was relying on my skill since you were not aware of it… Yet…

10:23 Captain_America: We bumped fists, then I can see the change come over Blake like the sun going behind a dark bank of storm clouds. The transition into business mode, and Blake’s business was killing people.

Mine was defending them against people like Blake. Blake’s right palm streaks forward, looking to break my chin. I didn’t even flinch, my left hand shot up, my enhanced reflexes, strength, and skill working together in harmony as my fist slammed into Blake’s wrist, casually deflecting that palm strike off to the side, and creating an opening.

My right fist rockets forward to take advantage of that opening, aiming a solid strike to the left side of Blake’s jaw. I pulled my punch, quite considerably. I didn’t want to hurt the handsome man, but I was going to give him a fight all the same.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: Of course, just as expected from a guy like Steve Rogers. He managed to push my palm aside with his own fist, creating his own way to enter into my own guard. Maybe even less than one second, his other hand, his right punch, charges towards my direction to land a strike on my jaw. Good, this was going to be a nice challenge.

As you push my right hand away, I try to chamber it into my center once again while my left elbow raises, and block your fist in the air with a Bong Sao, not letting your punch enter inside to touch me. As your right wrist stuck on top of my forearm, I rotate my right arm again towards your jaw, this time, in a horizontal movement with a snap elbow. Like yours, my attacks' powers are also controlled since I don't want to damage you harshly, but I still believe you can take more than most of us, considering that you have incredible endurance.

10:23 Captain_America: I nodded appreciatively at Blake’s skill. I might have pulled my punch in terms of power, but not speed, and yet his left elbow was there to absorb my fist. Instantly, I snap my right fist back towards my guard.

Blake’s right elbow snaps towards me, but I simply allow myself to change levels, ducking beneath that slicing elbow, while at the same time twisting from my hips and driving my left fist in a hook towards the right side of Blake’s body, just beneath the ribs, looking to land a controlled liver shot to take some of the fight out of the assassin.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: You manage to avoid my elbow strike as well, letting your body duck a bit lower to dodge my attack in a clever way. You shift your legs a bit sideways, sending me the signal of you preparing another attack. And as my eyes dart your raising hook punch, my left hand that has been used to block your strike with a bong sao charges downwards, suddenly slamming my hand into your upcoming had with a chop, both to avoid your strike by pushing it away and damaging your body to be the one who lands a strike.

And as your punch is being forced away from me once again, I raise my left knee to send a direct kick into your body's midsection, a bit upper side of the abs and lower side of your pecs, while my right hand goes to your neck to grab it with my palm in order to control your movements, and force you to stand in the position to receive my kick. You are fighting like a true martial artist, and this was making this fight more enjoyable.

10:23 Captain_America: I know that my opponent is no amateur, his training puts him in the top ranks of the world’s most accomplished fighters.

My hook is smoothly diverted, sending my left fist off course. I grunt, catching the movement of that knee driving towards my body. My right arm, back in tight, tucks in against my body, absorbing that knee strike in the crook of my elbow.

Muscles smoothly flexing, my right hand twines around your left knee, not letting you pull it back after that knee strike. I feel your right hand latching onto my neck, pulling me upwards, but that does not concern me right now, in fact, it will help what I have planned, an extra point of contact between us. I kick out suddenly with my left foot as I’m being pulled up, while throwing myself backwards, looking to knock out your right plant foot out from under you with a swift kick, while using my grip on your left leg to toss you over my head.

The combat is … exciting in a very real way for me. This is like a training session with a fellow master, rather than a fight where lives hang in the balance. I found myself actually enjoying the fight with this handsome, hard muscled rogue far more than I expected to.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: This guy is no joke. No wonder he is selected to join SHIELD. Anyone would want a fighter like him on their side. Your grunt after I hit your hand sends a smile on my face, but you quickly block my kick by pulling your right arm at the correct time. You have the reflexes of a tiger which did not cease to amaze me so far. And after you block my strike, you snake that right hand under my leg to take it under control before I can pull it back. And your tight muscles resist to my pull that I am doing with my right hand only for a brief moment before you let your body fall downwards while kicking out my standing leg, and push me upwards to toss me on top of you.

I grunt in disbelief. How can a person contain that much strength, skill, and intelligence under the same skin? As I am being tossed over, I let your neck go, and open my palms and extend my arms. And as my palms connect with the ground, I bend my arms a bit before pushing myself back harshly to bounce again from the ground, jumping to my feet again with a somersault after that brief handstanding moment. And as my feet touch the ground again, I turn my body to you once again, and laugh, adjusting my hair with my left fingers as you are on the ground. "Nice move Rogers… How many people have you banged with this move?" I smile after my tease, and slowly take my stance again. I wait for you to get up and take your stance once again. I believe I will eventually have my fun with you on the ground soon already.

10:23 Captain_America: There is no need for Blake to wait for me to get up, because as soon as I launch the assassin over my head, and we break contact, I smoothly kip up to my feet with one athletic surge, my super soldier muscles rippling with power.

As Blake turns to face me, I’m already back in my guard, slowly circling. Except this time… there is a grin on my face. I can’t help it. This is the most fun I’ve had in a very long time.

I reply to Blake’s question, “Enough times to get the job done. I know my business, Blake. At least as well as you know yours.”

Content to stay on the defensive, I continue to circle. Blake might notice that I haven’t even broken a sweat, nor am I even breathing hard.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: I smile widely at your response. From the very beginning of our meeting, these were the first sincere and playful words that have come out of your mouth. It seemed like you enjoyed the fight, as much as I did. You were already ready for my strikes as well, but you were much more defensive, more as if you were waiting for me to strike.

I take a deep breath before I turn to my serious mood once again, and start approaching you slowly. Then like a flash in the sky, my left barefoot rises to charge at your right calf with a roundhouse kick, hoping to make you fall on one knee even though I know that it is very unlikely, considering your endurance. And after that kick, I do the same with the top of my right foot towards your left calf. Both of my kicks are executed like a combo, not too much of a time period between the two like a jab-cross combination.

10:23 Captain_America: I’ve been fighting very conservatively so far, holding back on Blake. But I reckon that maybe it’s time I loosened up a little more. It might be time to show Blake exactly what being Captain America really meant. Slicing carefully from right to left, my guard up, I watch as the assassin begins to slide towards me slowly.

Then, the surge as his leg snaps out in a lightning fast kick. But I was primed and ready, as soon as that kick lashes out, my legs ripple with a surge of carefully prepared strength. I spring upwards with a mighty leap, the Assassin’s kicks hitting nothing but empty air.

The force of my leap sends me hurtling over your head, as I tuck myself into a cannon ball, spinning through the air, before landing directly behind you with perfect grace.

With a chuckle, I call out, “Behind you.”

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: This time, something happens beyond my expectation as you suddenly leap above me while I launch my fast kicks. And as my right foot goes back to its usual place again, I sense a thud behind me while you suddenly tease me with your words. Even though I am pretty surprised and amazed by your abilities, I still keep my cool, and chuckle back in amusement. "Too bad…"

And with a sudden move, I duck under, and spin around myself to send a powerful foot sweep with my right leg. In normal conditions, I don't think a casual foot sweep would force you to go down. But with this move, I use my whole body's momentum to tackle you down. And if you don't fall because of my sweep or manage to dodge it by jumping on it, then I will probably charge a front kick in the middle of your abs with my sole after I complete the foot sweep and push myself up quickly like an eagle.

10:23 Captain_America: I’ve got to give Blake credit, the man isn’t easily startled. I carefully begin to circle, when the assassin suddenly transform into a blur of motion, his right leg sweeping towards my feet.

I don’t try to block or avoid the sweep, going with it. I feel my legs get knocked out from under me, sending my body beginning to crash backwards. Smoothly, muscles surging and rippling, I control my landing, converting it into a reverse shoulder roll, back on my feet in an instant, and on the attack, springing towards Blake, throwing a series of rapid fire attacks, each one focused and intense, starting with a hard left jab towards Blake’s handsome jaw, followed by a short right cross delivered with authority, again targeting Blake’s jaw.

Then, finally, a snap left knee, driving up, attempting to drill into Blake’s incredibly muscled ab wall.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: I manage to make you fall to the ground with my sweep, and even I am surprised by it a bit. But before I can even do something about it, you suddenly charge onto your feet, almost at the same time as I get up. And all of a sudden, you switch into my aggressive mode, and start firing your punches towards my direction. The first one is a jab that is coming towards my jaw which I avoid by bending my head and back backwards to dodge it. The second one is a harder one, right cross towards the same place. I manage to avoid it by applying a pak sao on your arm this time, my palm on your elbow. It is not meant to push or counter attack you, just to direct that strong fist in order to get it out of my way.

And finally, your foot suddenly raises, and your leg comes towards my abs. I don't hold myself back either, and respond aggressively by charging my left right elbow into your raising knee's lap to hit the pressure point, not sure if it is going to hurt you that much, but it should be enough to both block your attack and counter at the same time. And after my hit, I raise the same punch under your jaw for an uppercut, hoping to get you off guard.

10:23 Captain_America: Now, we are both thrown into the thick of the fight, fists, elbows, knees flashing so fast that anyone watching us battle would only see a blur of motion.

Blake dodges my jab, and deflects my right cross smoothly with the palm of his hand against my arm, while driving his other elbow down against my left leg as my knee rises.

I grunt, choosing to eat the blow to my left leg, twisting my leg slightly so that Blake’s elbow is deflected off to the side. My left leg quad is a bit sore, but nothing that is going to slow me down or affect my ability to fight. My left foot snaps back to the ground, my stance shifting.

The uppercut that follows only just misses my chin, thanks to my final twist that deflected Blake’s elbow first.

The battle continues like a dance, as my left fist drives in a short, sharp punch aimed right beneath the assassin’s right armpit, a blow meant to stun. The missed right uppercut should mean that Blake’s arm is out of position, and that his armpit is wide open.

I recover from that missed right cross in an instant, pulling it back, and with a twist of my right wrist, reaching out to grab the assassin’s left wrist, at the very least, hoping to keep his arm occupied even if I don’t manage to grab it, while my right foot snaps out in a sweeping motion, trying to snake around behind the assassin’s ankles to trip him up.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: The good fighters' combat is generally more interesting, and yet tense since it is pretty challenging to hit your strikes properly. Even though my elbow hit your leg partially, the uppercut misses barely, once again thanks to your amazing reflexes. And that becomes the moment I receive the short punch on my armpit. I let out a short painful grunt. It is not bad, but it is bad enough to paralyze my arm for a brief moment that I feel your grip on my left wrist. I don't try to pull my arm back, instead, I grab your right arm with my left hand as well firmly to keep you locked in the same situation.

Then all of a sudden, your foot suddenly darts under us, and I feel it behind my left ankle. I don't fight that struggle as well, and even raise my right leg towards my chest as I fall to the ground because of your sweep. I moan for a moment as my back hits the ground, but still focus on my plan as I pull you back harshly from the wrist that I have gripped while planting my right sole on your abs to toss you off me to the ground. As I execute this movement, I let my body roll along with yours with my somersault backwards to land on top of you once you fall to the ground on your back because of my pull. Maybe this was the moment to take the fight to the ground, but it was still flexible according to your moves. One thing was certain though, you were one of the hardest fighters that I have ever encountered, and my goal was to defeat this big hero.

10:23 Captain_America: I feel where this is going as soon as Blake’s hand snaps around my wrist, both of us locked together now. I’m not surprised when he doesn’t resist my sweep, instead pulling me down with him. But what did catch me by surprise was how fast the assassin got his right leg between me and him.

I had expected to be tossed off of Blake, in much the same way I had thrown him earlier, but instead, he braced his foot against my torso, to throw me off him, but did not let go of my arm, rolling through to land on top of me.

I was impressed, it was a very clever move. I landed solidly on the ground, with Blake on top of me, both of us still holding each other’s wrists, my right wrist holding his left wrist in a tight grip, his foot solidly planted in my tightly flexed abs. I wasn’t in any discomfort, my abs were very strong. My own reactions were lightning fast, as my left palm flashes upwards to directly impact Blake’s right kneecap, a surge of strength to push his leg backwards, off my abs.

At the same time, my own legs snapped open, and with precise control and a slight bucking of my hips, I snapped my legs up and around Blake’s powerfully muscled torso, trapping the clever assassin in my full guard. I was perfectly happy to take the fight to the ground. My training in ground fighting was every bit as complete as my stand up game.

The entire time, the smile on my face never faltered. I was enjoying this so much!

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: My plans work as I land on top of you. But your smile never goes away from your face which makes you even more handsome. I don't react to your mood though, still focusing on the fight even though at the very corner of my mind, that idea still wanders around.

You push my leg off you before I can even press down or adjust my leg, and suddenly, I feel your legs wrap my waist, establishing the full guard on the ground. I can't help but chuckle once again. "Apparently you have knowledge about foreplays, Rogers…" And with that, I push my right arm under your throat to pin you against the ground, trying to adjust your free left arm a bit upwards to trap it under my elbow joint on the ground to make it useless. My left hand goes to pin yours to the ground as I start pressuring your neck slowly but surely, increasing the pressure bit by bit with my forearm. I murmur into your face. "Want to tap?"

10:23 Captain_America: My legs are flexed, exerting enough strength to control Blake’s powerful torso, but not enough to crush him. I have to admit though, his body between my legs feels amazing. I’m shocked at the thought. After everything that had happened to me during WWII, after being frozen for half a century and waking up to learn that everyone I knew and loved had died of old age, I had decided that I would focus only on my duty. Personal feelings, enjoying the company of other men, were pleasures that I would never know again. My duty was too important, and I didn’t want to face that kind of pain again.

But here I was, feeling tempted. And by a man who was a potential enemy. What was I thinking?

Sternly, I refocused on the fight. Blake was attempting to neutralize me, and I instantly found an opportunity in this. I didn’t fight him as he worked his right arm under my throat. He tried to trap my own left arm with his elbow, and I went along with that as well. He pinned my right hand to the ground with his, and I looked up into his eyes.

It was pretty uncomfortable, the pressure on my throat, but I wasn’t panicking. I stayed cool, then, as Blake asks me if I want to tap. I answer. My left arm suddenly ripples with a surge of strength, slamming down hard against my own chest, then sweeping down across my torso to free itself of Blake’s right elbow in a circular motion, coming up on the other side of his arm, my hand fiercely clamping his elbow. Then, with a brief adjustment, I throw my right leg over Blake’s shoulder while he is busy pinning down my right hand.

I lock my right ankle in the crook of my left leg behind his head and shoulders, trapping him in a perfect triangle choke, my core flexing as I pull his right arm out from under my chin.

With a grin, I ask Blake the same question, “Want to tap?”

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11:20 Blake_Macmillian: Just after I asked my question, I suddenly felt you lunge your arm under my elbow. It wasn't the best and effective pin on that side, but I still wanted to try my chance. Then, you suddenly grab my elbow, and pull my arm back that was holding your wrist. Before I can even react, your legs snake around on my body to trap my head in a triangle choke. I couldn't lie: You were a perfect fighter, and the hardest client I have ever fought. You ask the same question to me as you keep me in your lock, and I act like I struggle a bit as a natural reaction at first by moaning, only to flash my eyes to yours to twist your thoughts all of a sudden by smiling deeply and stopping moaning. "Not quite…"

And with these words, I let my body fall to my own left side while you are turning towards your own side on the ground which makes your lock on the ankle weaker. At the same time, even though you are holding it firmly, I try to pressure your right leg a bit more with my shoulder and hand to execute my plan. And after we fall to our sides, I push harder to break your ankle lock, and force your legs to part before I flash under your left leg, and go out of your grip, only to push my body on tip of you again to pin you you down on your stomach from your neck with my right arm if I can.

10:23 Captain_America: I refrain again from using my full strength in this fight, if I had, Blake would have been unconscious after less than three seconds in my triangle choke. But honestly, I almost don’t want this battle to end, I am enjoying it that much. Even so, I’m not exactly going easy on him. He clearly is in as much a mood to play as I am, as he suddenly stops moaning to let loose a dazzling smile and some cocky words.

Again, he shows off his skills, releasing my right arm while falling to his left side, forcing us both to twist. He pushes against my right leg, creating a gap, and dashing under my legs past my guard. I grunt, impressed at both his agility and his fast thinking. He drives his smooth, powerfully muscled body on top of my hairy chest, once more trying to wedge his right arm against my neck.

This time, my reaction is even faster. I still am not sweating, still am not breathing hard, it takes far, far more than a single fight to fatigue me to any significant extent. My right hand reaches up across my body to seize Blake’s right wrist. I pull sharply on that wrist, to drive the assassin’s right shoulder towards the ground, while I bridge up with incredible strength, my right foot planted firmly on the ground, lifting me up so that as I pull Blake’s right shoulder towards the ground, I’m bridging up powerfully towards him, using my weight, position and strength, to overbalance him, so that I end up pinning the muscular assassin beneath me, immediately adjusting my position and consolidating my base to make it very hard for the assassin to get me off him.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: You don't let me establish my dominance even for a second. You snatch my wrist, and slam it to the ground before bridging up to toss me off you while controlling my arm, and placing yourself on top of me. This time, you are on top of me, and I feel some sweats start to roll down from my forehead. Each passing second, I was realizing this was going to be harder than I had foreseen.

"I pity the guy who enters the bed with you." I murmur into you as I take a deep breath teasingly. This guy was really Captain America himself, the guy I have read and the guy I have been told by Julius when I was a kid. I try to bridge myself up to flip us over once again, but you seem to pin me down pretty tightly. I chuckle to your stronghold as I struggle to raise my hips and especially my back to its last extent once again, but this time, for another reason. As I let my body fall to the ground under your body again, a slow portal opens up behind me, and I suddenly go into that tunnel as if I am falling down before it shuts close as if it did not open in the first place.

Then the same portal opens up behind you, and I suddenly fall on top of you, on your back this time as I manage to find myself in the same situation before. That was the ability Julius taught me that Arthur and Marion don't know: A short distant teleportation. This time though, I don't forget to wrap my arms around your neck, and my legs around your waist like a true ninja, putting you in a rear naked choke in a time that equals to just one human blinking. I try to force you to fall on the ground face flat in my rear naked choke as I put my full weight on top of you while I whisper into your ear. "I told you not quite…"

10:23 Captain_America: I position myself on top of Blake, noticing that the ripped, ultra fit assassin is starting to sweat. I’m planning out my next attack on the handsome killer when he says something that makes me blush bright red… He isn’t even trying to be subtle anymore. I feel myself grow hot from embarrassment. And, because there is a part of me that wants that too.

One simple comment makes me feel out of control. I focus hard, keeping my physical control at least, as he tries to buck me off, smoothly continuing to improve my position. Until suddenly he … vanishes!!! Right beneath me, there one moment, and gone the next. What … what just happened? Is he a mutant of some kind? SHIELD Intelligence really dropped the ball this time.

But I didn’t have time to think about it any more before I feel Blake’s hard muscular body drop onto my back, wrapping his legs around my solid abs and sinking in a very nasty rear naked choke.

I grunt, feeling myself truly in danger for the first time in this fight. Even I am susceptible to a well applied rear naked choke, although it takes substantially longer to put me out than it does a normal man. I don’t hesitate though, already I’m starting to feel slightly dizzy.

With a grunt of muscle, my core abs flexing, I stand up with Blake wrapped on my back like a monkey. I drive backwards, not holding back any longer, the entire nature of the fight has changed. Has this friendly fight just become deadly? Is Blake trying to finish me off by using the element of surprise, by keeping this ability a secret until he found the right moment?

I slam myself backwards, smashing Blake into a bookcase lining the wall with a crunch, before sharply driving my left elbow down into his thigh with precision and full power to get his legs to release their lock on my abs, while my right hand shoots up, worming in between Blake’s forearm and my neck. My right bicep bulges suddenly as I call on my full strength and I heave, bending at the waist, looking to throw the assassin over my shoulder and across the room using my grip on Blake’s forearm.

I feel a deep sense of regret. I was really growing to like Blake, he had a charm about him, but it looks like we are going to be enemies after all. I was no longer smiling.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: Suddenly, your attitude changes during the fight after I use my ability. I know this was going to catch you off with surprise since I don't use my power in non-threatening fights that much, but apparently you were so used to being cautious about anything that may rise unknown. You start to buckle like a big bull, and harshly slam my back against the book shelf behind me as I let out a big whimper this time. Now you started to act like I was your enemy, compared to the beginning of the fight. I was used to this, especially in my contract meetings' fight, so I wasn't surprised at all.

Then your elbow suddenly slams into my thigh which forces me to yell in pain this time as my legs loosen slightly. You seemed panicked, but it wouldn't probably prevent me from releasing the tiger inside me if you kept going like that. Then, you suddenly hold my arm firmly, and bend over to toss me over to the other side of the room with full force. I don't fight the last move of yours this time as I let another portal to open up after you let me go, just to teleport right behind you once again. Afterwards, I launch a harsh foot sweep to force you to make you fall to the ground once again as I try to catch your left arm to bend it while putting my right knee on your spine to push you to the ground in a lock. You were forcing me to use my power too much in a very short period of time which was not good. I talk calmly, unlike your mood. "Calm down, would you?"

Of course my precious clients got rough in my past matches as well, especially in order to convince me that they are worth it. But yours was different. You suddenly switched into full combat mode. I wasn't trying to apply full of my force, but at least I wanted to keep you under control.

10:23 Captain_America: My mind has switched into combat mode now, rather than sparring mode, but I am by no means panicking. I watch Blake’s body fly through the air, and enter another portal. You can fool me once, but not twice. I knew exactly what to expect.

Even so, I can’t react fast enough to prevent my legs from being swept out from under me as I fall forward. But that’s all the time I needed. The instant I feel Blake’s hand on my left arm, and that knee on my spine, I twist as I fall, smoothly slipping free from his grip, rapidly shoulder rolling backwards away from Blake, and back up to my feet in a split second, fists raised.

Blake asks me to calm down. My eyes narrow, but I don’t immediately attack. I keep my guard up, ready for anything, and ask a question instead, “What kind of game are you playing at Blake?”

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: I manage to sweep your feet off the ground, but as I catch your leg and drive my knee into your back, you twist to the side, and roll away, and I don't apply more force on you as I breathe deeply. You raise to your feet again, guard raised, but eyes are firing. At least you weren't attacking, that was a good beginning perhaps. I can't help but chuckle slightly at your furious facial expression, rubbing my neck.

"God, you are such a control maniac, Rogers. What is it? Can't handle little surprises by a Charmer like me?" I say playfully as I check out your body once again if you have sweated or not. I smile slightly at first before turning my tone a bit serious.

"I don't owe an explanation to you either. You have your own superpower, I have mine. What is wrong with that?"

10:23 Captain_America: I’m still not sweating, nor even breathing hard. Considering it takes around 150 laps around the Washington DC Mall before I begin to sweat and feel fatigued, this is still just a walk in the park.

I listen carefully, to Blake’s tone of voice, to his body language as he replies to my question. Trying to gauge whether or not he means what he says.

I consider my own response, listening to the tone of his voice, replying in a likewise firm and serious voice. “When two people work together for the first time, surprises are very, very dangerous. Especially since neither one of us had any reason to trust each other from the start. What you did Blake, was stupid.”

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: My smile completely fades away as I switch into a full serious tone, rolling my eyes at your comment as you express your idea about working together and trust. I inhale deeply before approaching you very slowly, and glare at you. My hair is covering my left eye halfly.

"If you did not crave for danger, then why did you become a superhero? Only because of the higher good? You can fool anyone, but me Mr. Rogers… I am a different case." I slowly point my index finger towards your chest, looking at your pecs for a moment before raising my gaze to you again emotionlessly.

"Second, I don't need your trust. I don't need anyone's trust. You may have a different story, but I got my share from it, alright? So if my methods and ‘stupid’ moves in your terms are too much for you, go find someone better… If you can." I shake my head in disapproval before turning my back, and grab my boots as I walk to the desk, start searching for my papers in the desks' drawer. "I am done with the fight. I will take your job."

10:23 Captain_America: I stood there, slowly relaxing my guard as I listened to Blake. It was clear as the assassin kept talking that what he had done, springing his ability on me like that, was more to do with his childish ego than any desire to double cross me.

I bristled inwardly when Blake assumed, like so many, that I just woke up one day and decided to become Captain America. He was ignorant of the sacrifices involved, the pain and agony it had cost me. But I kept my peace, and let him finish. When it became clear that this fight was over, I slowly reached down to pick up my shirt, shrugging myself back into it, and re-fasten the buttons carefully. It was still a tight fit, but at least my shirt wouldn’t get sweaty, since I hadn’t pushed myself hard enough to sweat.

I slip my shoes back on, still not speaking as I considered my response. The key thing at this stage is to forget what just happened. Dwelling on it would accomplish nothing. Arguing with him would accomplish nothing. Blake was right about one thing, trust was not required between us.

When I spoke next, my voice was neutral, lacking the sharp edge I had used when I called the Assassin out a moment ago. “Thank you, Mr. Blake. I think you have made your position very clear. What is the next step?” I sat back down in the chair, my eyes carefully watching the man with hidden talents.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: I take a deep breath to forget all of the things that just happened. It was a job, and there were downs like these kind of tense moments. You don't reply to me directly as I hear you are putting on your shoes again and wearing your shirt. I don't look back at you, just take some documents and put them on the desk before pulling my boots back on. I don't bother wearing my jean-coat again, and move behind the desk as you thank me and ask me the plan. I slowly lift my face up to look at your handsome gaze once again. I start talking in a normal tone, neither distant nor sincere.

"The base you are looking for is in Michigan, specifically in Detroit. It is not the most secure base of HYDRA, but there are some security enhancements happening due to a meeting organized by the secretary of the base. That meeting will be our entrance ticket."

I take some of the papers among the documents, and approach you in order to hand the materials that you are going to need. "These are the general information about the base, and your "Joshua Bakers" identity will be useful as well."

Then I cross my arms on my chest as I look at you, and look into your eyes to receive an answer. "I could be more useful and provide my knowledge if you tell me exactly what you are trying to achieve."

10:23 Captain_America: I watch Blake as he puts his boots back on, but leaves himself shirtless, showing off his fantastic body. It’s definitely a bit of a distraction, but one I can manage.

When he speaks again, it’s clear from the tone of his voice that he’s going to drop the subject of his surprise and our scuffle and move on to business.

I listen carefully, with great interest as the assassin reveals the location. Detroit, Michigan. So, they are planning a meeting and Blake has arranged an identity for me to infiltrate it as one Joshua Bakers.

Clearly, he’s made some plans beforehand. I look at Blake very closely when he asks for more information.

I weigh in my mind how much to tell him. During my briefing for this mission, I was given considerable leeway in how to carry it out. I come to a decision. Ultimately, it won’t matter if Blake knows or not, because there is very little he could do with the information to make the situation worse.

I speak up, “Blake, how much do you know about the origins of HYDRA? Hmmmm… In case you don’t know, let me fill you in. HYDRA arose during WWII. The group was chartered by the Nazi government to study a set of alien artifacts, from the Chitauri. Artifacts with an entire array of unbelievable powers. Luckily, before they were able to master these artifacts, me and my team invaded their lab and put a stop to it. The artifacts, however, were lost in the chaos of the final days of the war. No one ever discovered what happened to them.”

My look gets extremely intense, as I lean forward and stare at Blake. “SHIELD believes that HYDRA is on the verge of discovering one or more of those lost artifacts. I WILL NOT allow them to get their hands on even one of those artifacts.” The intensity, the passion, the determination in my voice is harder than steel as I finish my statement.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: I listen to your words carefully as you get tenser and tenser each second while explaining the past of HYDRA, as well as mentioning a possible lead that they might be up to. You are pretty nervous at the very end of the speech as I rub my chin, stare blankly for a moment as I am thinking of something before turning back to the other documents I have left on the desk. I take a brief look at them, and after a quick skimming that lasts for a half a minute, I look back at you in a cocky way, lean my ass against the desk again as a smile surrounds me. "I love your enthusiasm, but that wouldn't help you with the recent developments HYDRA has achieved. Unlike the past, data is the power, Rogers, not brute strength. Though, you may be closer to the thing you are searching for than you think."

I look at the papers once again before shifting my attention back to you. "The meeting HYDRA arranged is about something new that they have recently developed. They mentioned there will be some kind of test which would interest many bounty hunters. Therefore, most of them will go there by accepting their invitation." I smile in a much more mischievous way. "Even though I got my own invitation, I did not send a reply… Until now at least… But yeah, maybe this is where you should actually look… I don't know if those are the artifacts you are referring to since you are mentioning something that happened decades ago, but it may be a sign…"

10:23 Captain_America: I sit back, and listen to your reply. After I sift through your witty words, I listen very intently to the important part.

I frown. “Bounty hunters? Mercenaries? But what could HYDRA want with mercenaries so much that they are calling them all together in the same place? This doesn’t make any sense.”

I come to a decision as I reply. “It might be a sign indeed. And even if it’s not, whatever they are up to, we need to find out and put a stop to it. I wonder if they aren’t planning to recruit those mercenaries to help them in their search for the artifact. If so, we need to find out what leads HYDRA have. When is this meeting? I’m ready to go. I just need to travel back to Washington and pick up my shield.” I didn’t have any intention of heading into the Lion’s Den without my shield. I’d feel naked without it.

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: Your tension increases after my words, confused by the fact that HYDRA is inviting mercenaries. But I don't give a reaction, and let you finish your sentence until you finally mention that big, famous shield that is like a part of you.

"Well, the meeting will be held 1 week later. So I think you could go grab your shield if you want… However…" I sigh deeply, and gesture at the hidden door that we have entered the room. "You saw Russe and others back there. They were checking you, and they all are going to HYDRA’s meeting. This is a highly confidential meeting, Rogers. A fake identity will not be enough to get you inside. You need to build up your character as if you are a real bounty hunter. They will do a background check on the participants, including you." I caress my own hair for a moment before locking my eyes to you. "You need to attend as if you are my assistant or student…" Then I grin playfully. "Though, considering how much older you look than me, it is going to be hard to convince them." I give you another wink after my tease, then suggest another option. "Or you can prefer to get closer to other people who were in the room, especially to Russe who has deep connections with HYDRA which may also help you… Only if you are sure of it though. It is your choice and call I guess…"

10:23 Captain_America: I sit back in the chair, intensely focused on Blake’s ideas. I frowned, slightly troubled. What Blake was proposing was a job for a secret agent, a spy. I’m a soldier, not a spy. It’s not my area of expertise. But, there is no way I’m going to let anyone else risk themselves by infiltrating HYDRA’s mercenary conference.

I shrug, grinning slightly at the way Blake is so blatantly trying to flirt with me, even after our little fight. He was certainly a persistent man. And a very attractive one. As well as a tease, implying that I’m an old man compared to him. Well, considering I was born in 1921, technically, he is right. My eyes take in his build and his features with appreciation all the same.

Then, I speak up again, “It won’t work Blake. I’m not a bounty hunter. I’ve never been a bounty hunter, I won’t be able to convince anyone that I am. However, I could pose as your assistant, say your private secretary. That will keep me in the background. I won’t be expected to be in the limelight. With your reputation, you can vouch for me.”

11:20 Blake_Macmillian: I shrug at your suggestion. It wasn't the cleanest approach, and the perfect plan in my eyes. But if you were saying it would be hard to act like a bounty hunter, then forcing you to do so would cause more trouble. It was the best option we had so far.

"Very well then… Secretary plan is on… I don't think this is the best choice, but this is your assignment after all." I approach my jean jacket afterwards, and start to pull it on gently. "The woman who led you here will give you the address of where you are going to stay tonight. Or you can go back to Washington immediately if you wish. You know where to find me until next Friday after all…" I give you one last wink before heading to the door, and slowly open it to enter into the VIP Lounge once again, acting as if the fight between us never happened.

Published: 2022-09-01, viewed 89 times.