STRUCKER SLUMPED as he gazed deeply into the flashing array of lights the monitor overwhelmed.

The shallow depths of tranquil had caused a small whistle to hum on his ears before slowly progressing to a high-pitched frequency with each second that passed— leading to a full-on ring that vibrated his auricle.

Although, judging by his appearance alone, he was completely unbothered. From the lack of emotion that had stilled his eyes to the deep focus that relied upon sight.

As the minutes had advanced, his eyes suddenly narrowed, an unconscious motion of his jaw leaning forward following not so long after.

He slouched over the table, resting his elbows on the steel structure as levels of intrigue had progressively and vastly risen with the sight that flashed onto his eyes.

<<

THE BRUNETTE GIRL clutched her legs, hugging them towards her chest as she slowly rocked herself back and forth.

Cold sweat trickled down the side of her face. The shaky breath audible even from the camera's respectable distance. Cubes of wood scattered across the small space, making a mess that dispersed over the cold-baring floors.

Suddenly, a can dropping right in front of her is what brought the woman to a tense. Heart immediately dropping as the small repeated sound of clanks echoed through the claustrophobic room.

She turns to her right, a man grinning through the window as his hands folded from behind— nonchalantly shrugging.

'Test two out of thirty, in motion...'

The quick announcement alone caused her eyes to well up in tears. Tempting to keep it in bay as she quickly wiped away the small strand that had escaped her hold.

Wanda drew in a sharp intake of breath, eyes hardly squinting as both hands lifted shakily. Reluctance evident. That motion took a quicker pace as she muttered a small whimper of pain under her breath, squinting her eyes.

Small fractions of red mist flowing through her wrists, gritting her teeth as she attempted to hold onto the overwhelming pain that shot through her arms as heavy grunts started to mix in. With each cloud of red that escaped her fingers— she started to feel the weariness. The power she had newly infested forcing her to pour out every bit of her from this newfound feeling.

With a deep breath, Wanda starts to shrill an ear-piercing scream. The origins clearly toning from within— from the unbearable pain to the displeasuring state. The agony was readable. The sorrowful affliction was too much.

But she can't turn back now.

And with one quick clench of her hands, the small container makes a small noise of a crush— immediately crumpling from the swift action.

A sigh of fatigue slowly escaping her lips as she collapsed onto her back, right against the wall. Her chest rose in debility, rising with deep breath and that only. She was mentally depleted.

Hands were cold and clammy, robes drenched in cold sweat as she releases one shaky gasp-like intake till the other.

The Maximoff allows the tears to finally fall from her eyes in defeat, weeping as she reluctantly returns to her clutched position.

She then bows her head low, stuffing them in between her knees as she laid on the cement ground— curling herself as she chose to bawl from her own dread.

And with one loud sob, she starts to let everything out. Draining every bit of energy that had maintained its storing internally.

Her eyes filled with regret. Tears falling like rain as she allowed the moist feeling to settle on her cheeks.

'Test, recorded. Report on the other Maximoff...?'

>>

Before he could even continue his assessment, a small distant echo of a footstep came through the deep depths, filling in the once peaceful void the room had partaken to a longing.

He immediately looks over his shoulder, not even questioning the slight disturbance.

"You found him... didn't you?"

"A-Actually, sir, It's a girl." A voice replied in a shaky whisper.

Baron quirks an eyebrow, shifting his gaze as he turned, lightly tilting his head. "Do you know the name?" Dr. List slowly nods at the question, allowing Strucker to creep a small smile in slight triumph. "What about the bounty-men?"

"Already in a closing deal. They just need confirmation from you, sir."

DOWN THE LITTER-COVERED ROADS NOT TOO FAR AWAY, Y/N's eyes appear blank. Spaced out, as his E/C orbs pierced a deep stare towards the sights the car window had manifested.

The air conditioning was a comforting breeze as the cavernous felt aura of peace that had surrounded him could even embrace the slightest whispers of the soothing winds.

Soft music played from the radio— though, fairly inaudible to him. He could barely pick up the instrumental that warbled and crooned.

But it was clear enough to be identified by the L/N, who was actually quite acquainted with the tune. A ukulele that slowly strummed in a familiar pattern before a soft voice had gradually caroled.

He slowly hummed along, relatively well too as a small smile lightly peeked his lips. A significantly fond memory replaying in his mind merely just from the gorgeously written harmony.

Even then, he was able to stabilize a well-maintained focus on the newfound observations that had captured his peripherals.

Bicycle bells ring as they pass by, pedestrians crowding the sidewalks, pigeons regrouping— being the usual wanderers they were as they continued to feast on the torn pieces of bread crumbs that laid on the cement grounds.

A heavy sigh releases as he slowly rests his chin on the palm of his hand.

He was in a zone.

A trance in a way.

His ears could even pick up the muffled and echoing noise of the usual, common, and overlapping car horns that had seemed to fill the streets even from afar. But it was not enough for him to tear his maintained discern away from the song.

So with the large populations mixed with his distracted state, this caused his gaze to unwittingly land from one face to another.

He first lands eyes on a man who sat by a bench, all for himself. People walking past, not even taking a second to render in such presence. A small cigarette that squeezed in between his middle and index finger as an expressionless emote had coated his face.

But his eyes told a different story— with the optics that told sorrow, and gloom that filled his pupils.

Carefully, his sights were set to another. This time he turns to a sidewalk café, group of friends enjoying themselves as they patiently waited for their servings. Smiles of content and cheer had enveloped their lips.

He then hastily turned to a union of two people, middle-aged man, and woman, walking hand-in-hand with a young girl in between them— around fiveish— who continuously smiled in clear joy with each step she took.

Her arms swung enthusiastically as she grasped a tight grip on her stuffed bear with her off-hand. Each foot hopping from small skip to another while the parents merely looked at each other in amuse.

This caused a chuckle out of Y/N.

With one last turn, his eyes steadily land on a young pair who stood under the lamp post.

A laugh shared between the couple, hands interlocked whilst sharing an earphone as their heads bobbed from the unified melody that sang on their ears.

The girl looks up at her partner, flashing a small smile as she slowly allowed herself to rest upon the man's shoulders...

🎵~But with you, my dear, I'm safe and we're a million miles away~🎵

Somehow, a soft— yet, for whatever reason, weak smile had tugged Y/N's lips at the sight as soon as the song came to its last beat.

Just the picture of it seemed to internally enlighten something from within.

He himself couldn't pinpoint the exact reasoning behind it, but it was admittedly quite pleasing.

Seeing the piece of scenery had caused him to slowly drift and ignite in deep wonder as it peacefully took over his mind's consciousness.

The signs of affection,
The signs of attention...

It was a fascinating topic that would run through his mind every now and then. Never really paid much attention to it, but it was oddly often.

He studies the interaction, subconsciously noting down the mannerisms.

The absent-minded tucking of one's strands, the tight grip they had on each other's hands-

'You have an incoming call from:
❤️KrabbyNatty❤️'

Y/N immediately snickers at the announcement, looking down at the flashing phone.

"Accept-"

All was interrupted, when a loud screech of a tire echoed through the streets, the vehicle zooming past before coming to its brakes just right ahead.

Y/N furrowed his eyebrows from the sudden entrance, slowly turning down the volume of the radio as his line of sight had fixated on a figure— who sluggishly stepped out of the jeep.

A tight-fitted black long-sleeve that covered most of his upper body. A cold look rested on his face— as if it was his natural appearance, a scowl at most.

Even with the sunglasses that covered the man's peripherals, you could sense the glares of disdain and displeasure.

This was somehow enough for Y/N's suspicions and interests to pique, quirking a brow of intrigue as he took more time to study whatever he could lay his eyes on.

A well-built stature, experienced at most. Calm demeanor, yet, apathetic posture— professional in a way.

If that wasn't enough, his companions of sorts soon followed in trail, simultaneously stepping out with the same look plastered on their faces. This time, posture was stern— potentially even stiff.

What took his curiosities to a farther path were the sights of subtle scarring crossing around the visible areas of skin.

So with everything from the body language to the appearance, this was somehow enough for him to cease that something was......... fishy.

But even then, Innocent until proven guilty was his chosen play. As much as he wanted to learn more, there was nothing else for him to conclude with... yet.

"-Hey, are you even listening?" Natasha's voice rang through his ears as the phone rested on top of the console— speaker mode.

Y/N slowly tears his gaze away from the group, hesitantly renewing all attention to the redhead.

"Sorry- Sorry, What were you saying?"

"So you weren't listening." Natasha sighed, a hint of disappointment. "Did you at least hear a single word?"

"My bad. Just kinda... spaced out." Y/N strained.

"You do that a lot. You alright?" Natasha questions. The concern was apparent just from judging at the tone alone. "Something wrong? Bothering you?"

Y/N was taken back from this. In all honesty, he was expecting a scolding.

But no.

"Uh, Again—It's my bad. I was just checking if Syd's out yet." Y/N responds, taking another small glance as he continued to study what was ahead of him. "I- uhh... just wanted to make sure, you know?"

Natasha stayed silent for a moment after hearing the small confession.

As the moment passed by and the clocks had ticked, the perfect red-petal shape of her lips had slowly evolved and taken the form of one beautiful smile.

"It's nice of you... you know— taking initiative of her."

Y/N took a small glance at the rear-view mirror, the school showing no signs of dismissal just yet.

"Yeah, she's just misunderstood." He replies, tilting his head as it laid against the window. "Felt bad for the kid. Misguidance and all at such a young age could definitely lead to something."

"Yeah..." Natasha softly murmurs— maybe even in a slightly down tone. Before Y/N could even utter a response, she quickly continued. "She had adapted quite quicker than I anticipated."

Y/N chuckles. "Yeah, she's been surprisingly easy so far."

"For you," Natasha interjects, mixing a small chuckle into the conversation. "What's the secret, New superpower? Mind control?" She tried to come to a conclusion for L/N's knack for looking after kids.

"Well, first off— you don't know much about me yet, so don't judge." Y/N jokes, causing a small— yet, adorable snicker out of Natasha. "And plus, you hang out with her a lot so I don't know what you're talking about."

Those few words allowed the two of them to share a laugh. One that for whatever reason is something they were quite acquainted with. As if it was a regular doing.

But as they did so, the distant chime of the— at times, quite satisfying sound of school bells ringing had caused him to perk from the sound and sit up straighter in his seat.

He takes another glance at the rear-view mirror, students leaving one by one.

"It's dismissal. I'll talk to you in a bit?"

"Go ahead. We're still trying to find a trace, so come quick."

Y/N scoffs, jerking the key away from the ignition as the air conditioning immediately shuts off from the small action.

"Are you sure that's the only reason you want me there sooner?" He teased, opening the door as he stepped out of the vehicle "Very flattering, Romanoff— I miss you too.......... if that's what you're trying to imply. I'll be there as soon as I can."

"Ha.Ha." She replied blankly. "By the way, we got something for you. Obviously Stark made it but it's mostly something from all of us. You might have to speed it up a bit if you can."

Y/N raised his eyebrows, one of curiosity.

Before he mustered a word though, he takes one last and small glance at the group.

The large man skimmed the area before his head slowly turned, landing eyes on Y/N.

He sends a small smile— a forced one in Y/N's reading, but only from suspicion.

He reluctantly sends it back, flashing one of his own before shrugging it off, choosing to ignore all factors as he decided to cross the street.

"For me?" He asks eagerly "Well, what is it?"

"Uhm, I'm not allowed to tell."

"Woww, it's like that then." Y/N teased, sarcastically placing a hand over his chest in exaggerated offense. "And I thought we were friends...and friends don't lie."

"I-I just wanna make sure it's a surprise..."

"Surprise?" He stops dead in his tracks, raising an eyebrow from sudden interest. "I didn't think you were that type of gal."

"I actually suggested it to be a gift.."

Y/N huffed in amusement.

"Wow, That's... actually really sweet of you-" He said in a very genuine manner.

"Just come back here as soon as you can, please." Natasha interrupts, not wanting that type of compliment. "I mean, soon. Like, reeeaaallllyyyyy really soon-"

"Okay, Okay I get it!" Y/N chuckled, resuming his stroll. "Just take a quick rest or something. Maybe uh... just curious, do you by chance... I don't know— think of me...? Might give you some nice... 'relaxation.'" He suggested with a playful glint in his voice.

"Why bother talk to you anyway?" She irritably replied. "Secondly, that's just disgusting."

"Don't pretend, it's fine. We all have our own... 'things'." He says teasingly, doing quotation gestures with his fingers despite the redhead being unable to see them. A grin slowly curving his lips. He could practically hear the eye roll from the other end. "Second of all, you know damn well you love talking to me. I know it's hard to admit, but I'm just too irresistible, you know?"

"Funny. I'm guessing hanging out with Stark is taking a toll. Honestly, I need my friend back."

"It's so weird hearing the word 'friend' come out of your mouth like that." Y/N mused, coming from firsthand thoughts alone. "Times have really changed huh? You've been a real softy the past few months, O' Romanova."

"Oh, shut up." Natasha monotones— though, an irrepressible and gracious smile had slowly curved her mouth, biting her lip in an attempt to close such a sign. "Anyway, I'll see you later. Just be safe."

"You've got my word."

"I mean it."

Y/N snickers at the remark, lightly shaking his head. "Yes, I know- I know. I'll be safe."

"Promise?"

"Uh- Yeah....?" Y/N furrows his eyebrows as he starts to slowly rub the back of his neck. "I promise."

"From dusk till dawn?"

"Wh- What? Like the movie with the vampires?"

"No, you idiot!" She exasperated before returning to a serious tone "Will you keep this promise, even from dusk till dawn?" Natasha repeated, sternly. "It's a pact Clint and I used to do."

"Hn, you must trust me really well if you're gonna be using that." Y/N amusedly replies, maybe even in a slight tone of a joke. But when the small silence of await made him detect that Romanoff was playing no games whatsoever, he was forced upon to give a real answer— sighing in defeat. "Fine, yes. From dusk till dawn."

"Just the words I needed to hear." She said in an upbeat and relived tone, thankful she managed to drag it out of Y/N "Don't do anything stupid. I'll see you soon."

"See you soon, sunshine."

And with a small beep, the line ends. Finishing off with a soft smile that grazed Y/N's-

"Mr. Hawke!" A voice calls out— another cover name, causing Y/N to instinctively turn to his heels. "May I have a word?"

"Principal Morita!" Y/N greets before his line of sight lands on Sydney who stood next to the teacher, causing his face to immediately fall. He turns back to the man, a questioned look. "She's not in trouble is she?"

"No, No! Not at all!" He replies, mixing a small chuckle of amusement. "Quite the opposite, really. If you don't mind?"

"I'll be there." Y/N accepts before pointing at the young girl, "Though, may I also have a word with her for a moment?"

"Of course! Just meet me in that office right over there." The principal points over, earning a quick bob of a nod from the L/N as he wraps an arm around the teenager, slowly walking away.

"So, how's my little Mamba?" He inquires, sliding the backpack out of the teen's shoulders. The act alone causing Syd to release a small sigh of relief.

"Bored as fuck." She exhaustingly groaned in a typical teenage way, causing a chuckle out of Y/N as he slung the bag over his shoulder. "I mean yeah, I got nice marks on that chemistry exam Bruce was trying to help me out with. Other than that, it was alllllllll snores." The girl even added a little demonstration for kicks.

Y/N merely shakes his head.

"Didn't you say you have friends? What're their names anyway? I haven't met them." He questions, whipping his head around in curiosity as both came to a halt. "And, what did you do this time?"

"First of all, They have robotics so they aren't here at the moment— and I am not involving any of them in all this 'Avengers' bullshit." She replied blankly. "But to answer your second question— I have no fucking clue at this point. I haven't even done anything wrong the past few months."

"Of course you do." Y/N rolls his eyes, taking a small glance at the office before snapping his head back to the teenager.

"Look, I'll finish whatever this is then I'll meet you at the car. It's just across the street. We can finish everything else back at the tower. Maybe get Banner to do your homework while we continue with the trace... or play around with Steve's shield...?"

"Just don't throw it hard next time." Sydney grimaced, subconsciously stretching her right shoulder. "What about the pop-tarts?"

"What about them?"

"Thor specifically said, 'Lady Crooke, can you tell Lord Y/N to restock on the pop-of-tarts?'." Sydney deepens her voice to imitate the God of Thunder, only causing Y/N to release another chuckle. "I mean, are we?"

"Hell no," Y/N responds, leading to a childish giggle that escaped the teenager's lips. Meanwhile, Y/N uses the spare time to reach down his pocket, fumbling around before pulling out the car keys. "Start it, I'll meet you there."

He expected the young girl to immediately comply with the small request, but she just stood... awkwardly.

A glint of hesitance as her lips slowly pursed. An obvious sign of contemplation. She steadily drops her head down to the white tiles for a small second, within the time fiddling with her fingers.

She nervously bites her lip, gritting the bottoms of her teeth above the skins before taking a small hesitant step closer, leaning over before she asked, "Did you find any suitors?"

Y/N sighed at the question, reluctantly shaking his head.

"Not yet. Sorry, kid." He spoke in a very genuine tone, comfortingly rubbing the side of her arm. "Me, Nat, Stark, and Banner really tried finding some nice families. But, we just wanted to make sure we found the right ones. Unfortunately, nothing immediate yet."

"That's fine..." She barely whispered. The hint of her voice only adding insult to injury. But surprisingly, a small smile had suddenly— yet, slowly quivered her lips. "But, you'll still be there for me... right?"

"Of course. Why would I leave my Mamba?" He softly chuckled. "That's probably the last thing I would do out of nine-hundred billion other things."

"Good to know I'm on someone's priority list." Sydney sarcastically remarks. "Why do you call me that anyway? I always wondered."

"Uhm— 'Kill Bill'." Y/N bluntly explained, wrapping an arm around her as they resumed their walk.

"That's not a bad movie. I'm guessing you only watched it for Uma Thurman?"

"I mean... you know what, never mind." Y/N changes course, lightly patting her head before slowly reaching his hand out. "You should probably start the car before Nat gives me another five-hour-long lecture, or... something."

"Oo, Natasha- huh?" Sydney nudges, a teasing grin peeking her lips as well as a couple of raises of her eyebrows "Out of all, why Nat eh? Spill the tea."

"I-I... whatever, just go."

Sydney scoffs.

"Dude, you should get laid or something." She jokingly suggested before her eyes suddenly lit up. "Have you ever thought of asking her out? I mean Hill is there but she's just... she's alright i guess."

Y/N tilted his head— immediately shaking it.

"W-What?! No-No-No, I have never thought of that." He retorted, maybe a little too quick. "Where did that even come from?"

"Come on, you spend almost your entire day just 'babysitting' me. You literally go outside only when you are told to. You're practically a hermit."

"Because I have nothing to do."

"Exactly! That's why you should ask her-"

"Just get in the car." Y/N interrupts, tossing her the key and pointing at the direction of the vehicle.

"You're not my dad. Don't tell me what to do." The young girl interjected, jokingly. She then sarcastically folded her arms over her chest, strutting enthusiastically. "It's my life after all." She huffed, earning a look of amusement from the L/N.

He quirks an eyebrow, placing both hands on his waist as he jerks his head over to the direction.

The young girl immediately drops all features. A deep breath was taken before groaning— slowly nodding her head as she sighed in defeat.

But to his surprise— she walks over to Y/N, extending her arms out as she slowly wrapped him in a needed hug.

Y/N raises both eyebrows in complete and utter surprise. But the warmth of her embrace had gradually brought him to a state of comfort himself, hesitantly snaking his arms around her as he laid his chin on top of her head.

A sigh of content escaping their lips in unison, both clearly enjoying the moment.

"Just ask her out..." She whispered, the words mumbling as it nuzzled on the man's shoulder. But unexpectedly, her tone didn't show any signs of jest. Surprisingly, a hint of genuine concern. "Be happy for once... enjoy the moment for me, please..."

Before Y/N could even muster a response, loud footsteps already caught on to his ears as Sydney immediately speeded away to the exits. Childish fits of giggles loud enough for even a person from a faraway proximity could catch.

He slowly shook his head in mere amusement.

Though, a small smile had slowly curved his lips, watching as her figure slowly faded to the distance.

'That kid is really something.' He thought to himself before heading off to meet the principal.

But then he replayed her words.....

"...So, may I ask what this is about?" Y/N inquired, taking a seat as he gently plopped the backpack onto the ground. "It's my first time doing these types of things. So I'm just curious."

"Oh, there's nothing to be worried about!" Morita assured, pulling a chair of his own. "So, you said it's your first time. How so?"

"Uhm- for Syd's case, I'm a new— recent rather— temporary caretaker. Until her family resolves some issues, I'm kinda in charge of doing these things."

"What about your case?"

"Personal issues," Y/N responds bluntly, jaw unknowingly clenching as he slowly nodded.

"Uh-huh....." The principal takes a small pause, taking a skeptical squint at Y/N before resuming at the task at hand. "Well, whatever you're doing at home, it's really working. She's been doing really well, conduct-wise, for the past few months. Her grades are nothing we really worry about, actually one of the top students."

"I mean, was she never well behaved?"

"Uhm— unfortunately, there are some— a lot actually, I hate to admit, of issues disciplinary-wise." Morita admitted as he cleared his throat, interlocking his own fingers before resting them on the hardwood table. "She has partaken in numerous cases. There are records and histories of her acquiring major and minor offenses. I'm assuming from what I heard earlier, this is your first of hearing this?"

"Yeah, my job is quite recent so I'm not very aware of the situations she has faced," Y/N explained, scratching the top of his head. "But, what about now?"

"Well—"

Before the conversation could even progress, the small shriek of a lung-overcoming yell had shrilled from the distance. Multiple even.

Both the teacher and the L/N looked at each other, confusedly.

"I'm guessing I'm not the only one?" Morita spoke.

"No, you're definitely not."

Y/N pushes himself off the chair, grabbing the backpack along the way as he quickly shoves the door wide open.

As soon as the halls were visible, more of them were heard— ear-deafening and desperate, overlapping one to another. Students immediately rushed in hurry, anxiously heading to the exits with complete horror.

Frantic was evident, everyone in simultaneous acts and signs of clear fear. Y/N follows in pursuit, pushing past the large crowd as he takes his steps to a more quicker pace than his usual.

Adrenaline was brought in an immediate rush, one of worry. Questions lingered in his mind and judging by his face, it was bothering him.

As soon as the sunbeams shined against his eyes, he was met by the messy scene that scattered the road.

Bodies laid lifeless, people walking in limp, red that was spread across the cements.

Slight fog of smoke still in the verge of clearing.

In instinct, Y/N takes a look at his car. The sight alone making his eyes widen as he hurriedly ran towards the vehicle.

Pieces of shattered glass, doors dented, tires flat from each individual slash.

Once he went over to the driver's side, his sights had now fixated on the piece of metal that laid on the ground.

The car keys dipped with the gushing red that told violence, resting on each sharp and ragged edge.

What caught his attention was the piece of paper the rattled in the corner of his eyes.

He furrows both brows, detaching the small note from the car window before taking a read.

WERE TAKING BACK WHAT'S OURS

He then takes a look to the left, the jeep from before had disappeared.

And then it hit...

He clenches his grip into a fist, crumpling the note altogether.

With the realizations kicking in, a shaky breath escapes his lips. His jaw strained in a tight manner as glares started to form in his eyes. He steadily tilted his head, lips pursed as with a small squint— a deadly look had plastered his pupils.

His blood boiled, gritting his teeth as he showed marks of red— one of fury.

The intense look that succumbed his peripherals, the small subconscious twitches that involuntarily moved on each muscle.

It was a fearful sight even with a glance. Like a snake, staring at its prey. The vicious and menacing mien that uncovered those E/C orbs.

It was a blood-chilling sight...

(A/N: WE MISS YOU, KOB 💜💛)

- -

OVER-TOWERING THE BEAUTIFUL SKYLINE stood the luxurious structure of the Avengers tower itself. The sun fading its once bright bloom as dark undertones of shade started to overtake the skies.

The distant chatter and glass clattering all boomed from afar.

But while everyone conversed, Steve chose to occupy the small stool that set right in front of the bar table.

His right hand twirling a small pendant as his cheek rested on his off-palm. Judging from gaze alone, it just looked like he was in a deep lapse.

From the blank look that filled his eyes to the silent manner that he allowed to consume. But within a few seconds, he suddenly stopped— looking down at the compass.

His lips formed to a fine straight line, licking the inside of his cheek as he gradually lifted up the lid that rested upon the small object.

He admired the old cut-out once his eyes landed on the beautifully and well-framed portrait of Peggy.

A small smile divining his lips as his thumb softly caressed the aged photograph. But digging through his mind was a bucketload of regrets. Right behind that smile was a feeling of remorse whenever his gaze continued to linger on the photo.

Her gracious smile, her hypnotizing gaze, her—

"Shit!" A voice exclaimed, causing Steve to snap out of his once-deep lapse. Natasha groaned, almost slamming her phone onto the table as she downed another shot of Vodka.

Steve furrowed his eyebrows at the sudden aggressive overtone, closing the lid of the compass as he laid all attention to the russian redhead.

"What's wrong?" He asked, tilting his head in curiosity.

"It's Y/N. He's not answering." Natasha answered, pinching an exasperated press on the bridge of her nose. "He promised he would come over sooner. But he's not responding to texts, calls— it's annoying."

"Can I see?"

Natasha nods, sliding the phone across the table before landing right in front of Steve. He hastily grabs it before suddenly covering his mouth, stifling a laugh that almost left his lips.

—

Houdini🪄

Houdini🪄
Goodnight, bichhh🖕

Keep one eye open, L/N. Sweet dreams :)

Today 5:55 PM

Y/N, you there?

I stg if something happened

Y/N

Y/N!

Y/N!!

omfg

IS YOUR PHONE BROKEN? I CAN GET STARK TO FIX IT

sorry caps lock

But seriously, Y/N!

Y/N!!!!!!!!

я убью тебя!!

Y/N!!!!!!!!!!

I'm gonna eat your dinner

I'm gonna throw away all your clothes

Are you ghosting me?

Did I do something wrong?

TALK TO MEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

What did I do?

fbwtbwtbegbhr wfvwfb

—

"Aw, that's so cute." Steve sheepishly cooed as he shot his head back up, meeting only deadly flares. "You do this often?"

"Oh, shut up!" Natasha snatches her phone back from Steve's grip, furthermore causing him to release a chuckle. "We like to talk a lot."

"You know, we all live in the same place." Steve points out, waving aimlessly around the tower. "You could just talk face-to-face?"

"What, and waste a good rest for a guy like him?"

"Doesn't seem like you're wasting anything... In fact, seems like your enjoying it. Even for a 'guy like him'." Steve smirks, causing Natasha to roll her eyes. "I mean, look at those texts. It's like you're a clingy—"

"Say anything else and I will slit your throat." She taunts, pointing the now empty glass over to the star-spangled man.

Steve simply raises his arms in surrender, but maintaining the sheepish grin that twisted his lips.

"I'm just saying. It's like you miss him alre-"

RING RING

Steve raises his eyebrows from the sudden calling, pulling the cellphone out of his pockets as he excused himself, earning a quick dismissive wave from Natasha who honestly never really cared— immediately getting back to her rapid assault of texts.

As soon as he was out of earshot, his thumb hovers over the touchscreen before sliding it across, resting the speaker against his ear.

"Hello—"

"What phone are you using?" Y/N's voice was heard.

"What—"

"Just answer the question." Y/N irritably cuts off. "What phone are you using?"

"Stark issued." Steve answered before furrowing his eyebrows, "What's wrong?"

"Good. Just let me talk for a sec, this is very important." Y/N paused, a sigh heard on the other line before he continued, "I might not come back soon—"

"Why—"

"Dude. Shut up." Y/N interrupts, "Now, out of all people, I trust you won't share whatever I say, do I make myself clear?"

"What about Romanoff?"

"Uh- Fuck no! She will freak out If she ever does find out." Y/N immediately replied. "Now, like I said— promise me you won't tell anyone?"

"Of course, Of course."

"Good. Now, hear me out." Y/N pauses, contemplating his next few words before clearing his throat, "..They took Syd..."

Steve tilts his head, crossing his arms. "Who specifically is 'they'?"

"It's either HYDRA or EIGHT— possibly both." Y/N answered with an uncertain hint in his voice. "She only gets intel from those two which would make a lot more sense."

At the other end of the call, he nervously bites his nails— taking a small glance from his lefts to rights time to time.

"Alright, I'll brief everyone else—"

"No."

Steve was taken back from the statement, furrowing his eyebrows in amusement. "No?"

"No, I'm gonna do this myself." Y/N sternly insisted. "I just wanted to make sure you know just in case something happens. Don't find me."

"Are you su-"

"Yes, I'm sure!" Y/N snapped, causing Steve to slightly jump from the sudden outburst. The L/N takes a deep breath, releasing it before he spoke, "Sorry- Sorry, that was my fault. It's just....... been a rough few hours."

"No- No, It's fine. You have all the right to do so.." Steve quietly assured, releasing a smile of understanding. "What do you want me to do?"

"I don't know... stall? Didn't you say you could tap dance?"

"I thought I told you not to bring that up." Steve muttered, pinching the bridge of his nose as he released an annoyed sigh. "Will you at least be getting help?"

Y/N doesn't immediately respond. The small silence allowing him to consume his thoughts before a smug grin had crossed his face....

"I actually know someone..."

- -

THE RAVEN HAIRED WOMAN DOWNS ANOTHER BOTTLE OF WHISKEY, releasing a sigh of content as the satisfying burn pours down her throat.

She then slowly turned the rusty metal knob, the door making a small creak with just a mere gentle push.

The oak tiles squeak from each step taken— showing the subtle in depth observation of the aging floorboards. But then suddenly, she froze— the rather large bottle shattering as it made impact to the floor.

"Y-Y/N?"

The L/N perks up from the calling. A small smile appearing his lips as he walked over to the woman.

"Hey, long time no see.... again."

Jessica's eyes light up, running up to Y/N as she engulfed him in a tight bear hug— quite exceeding the expectations the L/N had thought this would play out.

"Oh my god, I missed you!" Jones cried out.

"Aww, missed you too." Y/N reciprocated, though scrunching his face as he slowly pulled back. "You should shower."

"What, you don't like the smell of alcohol?"

"You know, you should try drinking water. It's a good substitute..."

"Whatever. What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to be hanging out with the 'Earth's mightiest heroes'?" She emphasized, to the point of pulling out air quotes with her set of fingers.

Y/N simply chuckled at the behavior, shaking his head as he did so. "I was actually gonna ask you for a favor but you're laptop was on.... I actually solved it."

"Uh- what?"

"The missing persons case? The one the PD didn't reply to?" Y/N reminded, walking over to the table as he turned the laptop towards them. "I found a lead from one of his neighbors. Found him in a separate apartment, dead as.... ehem- Anyway, cops are on their way. I also took the liberty of sending the clients their condolences, saying I worked for you. In a gist, I had everything handled."

"Wait— how we're you able to do this in-"

"A few time? I can appear and disappear in a snap." He nonchalantly shrugged. But this only led Jessica to scrunch a confused and unknowing look, not sure if he was either being sarcastic or not. Y/N noticed. "It's a long story— But I do have my own case I need help on."

"Fine, I guess I owe you..." Jessica grumbled, sighing as she took off her leather jacket. "And for my best friend in the entire world, free of charge."

"You would've left me off charge either way."

"Y/N, let's be honest, you work with Stark.... I could've easily taken the opportunity to take those big bucks."

"— So, they left this?" Jessica inquired, pointing over to the creased piece of paper while squeezing the white cloth onto her damped hair.

"Yeah, they did. I just need to find them is all." Y/N replied, not bothering to tear his gaze away from the monitor "I already tried viewing the cameras."

"And?"

"It went offline as soon as they arrived." Y/N sighed, aggressively clicking the trackpad, "I already tried tracing the plate number. Only made its way to a ninety-year-old who owns a bug."

"How do you remember the plate number?"

"Uh- I memorized it?" Y/N bluntly replied.

"How did— you know what, I'm gonna leave it at that." Jessica quipped, taking a glass before pointing it over at Y/N. "Alcohol or water?"

"Not right now...."

Jessica rolled her eyes, dismissing the remark as she poured a glass of water for her friend anyway. "So, how's life?"

"I'm sorry. I can't really do small talk right now, Jess." Y/N said, biting his lip as he hunched his back over in a quite uncomfortable stance. But he didn't think about any of those things, still maintaining all attention to the small monitor.

But then, Jessica tilted her head just from the mere sight her sights had partaken. The frantic look that was apparent on the L/N, it worried her.

He looked disturbed... and she read it really well.

She releases a sigh, walking over to Y/N as she set the glass of water right beside him. Before he could retort, Jessica suddenly gripped the back of his chair as she slowly rotated the wheeled seat— forcing him to finally look at her, dead in the eye.

He gives out a befuddled look, tilting his head in confusion. "What are you doing?"

"Gigs up. You're hiding something." Jessica pointed out, pressing both hands onto her friend's cheek as she lets out a stern eye. "Talk to me, Y/N."

"What are you on about?"

"Y/N, I've known you for too many years. I know when something's on your mind." Jessica lowly pointed out, dragging a stool in front of the L/N. "Please don't lie to me."

Y/N gulps down a lump on his throat, clenching his jaw as he slowly hung his head down, daze kept on the oak tiles.

"Just... worried." He spoke, rubbing his temple in attempt of ease.

Now this, was something Jessica never saw on a regular basis. Using this newfound observation, she decided to push the conversation.

"When did you find her?"

"A few months ago," Y/N answered, pursing his lip as he fiddled around with his fingers. Palms seeping with sweat as he nervously bit his lip. "It was like taking home a stray dog. You don't really know what happened to them... but you definitely knew something was wrong."

"What makes you say that?"

"She's still clueless of what's around her." Y/N muttered, jaw unknowingly straining as his lips started to slightly quiver in guilt, "I found her in this situation where... she was never treated as somebody special.... and she's so young. I felt bad for the kid. She just needed guidance."

"So you took her in to be like you?"

Y/N shook his head, dismissing the assumption.

"I took her in so she wouldn't be like me." He corrected, still maintaining eye contact with the dirty-brown floorboards "She reminds me of........ well— me.... But I didn't want her to go down that rough path I had to take. I could see it in her eyes." He takes a deep breath, releasing the heavy collected sigh as he slowly shook his head at the thought "I just wanted her to know that somebody was actually there for her, you know?"

"Yeah, I get you..." Jessica understood, lightly patting her friend's shoulder. "You did the right thing. Imagine what could've happened if you didn't get her out of there."

"I tell that to myself every day." Y/N softly admitted, "She's barely in her teenage years and she's already doing these things. She's already considered a threat to some. But, Imagine how much of a threat she would be once she has fully matured..."

A soft smile had grown on Jessica's lips at the small confession, reaching her finger out as she slowly lifted Y/N's chin— forcing him to finally give in to the eye contact.

"Y/N.... You're one of the best people I know." She caressed his cheek with her thumb, a soothing and comforting warmth. "People would kill to have a friend like you."

"Really?" Y/N gives a smug look, scoffing, only causing Jessica to lightly slap him in the arm. A few chuckles escaping their lips. "We both know that's a lie."

"No... No, it's not." She quickly shook her head in disagreement, "Remember when I first started having those panic attacks? You were the person who taught me how to calm myself down with just a few words... remember? It goes, Main Street-"

"-Birch Street, Higgins Drive, Cobalt Lane— Yes, why would I forget?" Both let out a simultaneous chuckle, toning in the uplifting spirits that filled the atmosphere. "Look at you, being so comforting. Who knew?"

"I didn't know you were a philosopher." Jessica jokes, leading to an eye roll that bawled Y/N's eyes which only brought her to burst into laughter. "I swear— I didn't think cases could make you such a pastor."

"Please, we're just at a dead end."

"I remember the last time we were both in a dead end." Jessica slowly reminisced, "Remember?"

"Oh yeah, the ginger, I remember. I had to carry that whole investigation." Y/N chuckles gently at the memory, turning back to Jessica. "I heard they transferred him recently."

"Yeah, Ravencroft."

"Ravencroft?"

"Yeah, Ravencroft. Home of the Criminally insane." Jessica tilts her head, furrowing her eyebrows. "Never heard of it?"

"First I've ever learned of it." Y/N admitted, taking the glass of water Jessica provided as he downed the cold liquid down his throat, "Where is it?"

"Westchester County. Not too far away."

Y/N bites his lip as his eyes narrowed, choosing the time to gather his thoughts. The overbearing silence, only causing Jessica to awkwardly sit there.

Then suddenly, his eyes lit up— like a light bulb popping on top of his head.

"Do you have records?" Y/N asked.

"Of what?"

"Their occupants. You think you can find any records?"

"Actually, as a matter of fact, I already did." Jessica grabs the laptop as she immediately went back to typing "I was trying to do a bit of research for a case not too long ago." She then hands the gadget back to Y/N, who eagerly snatched it from her grasp as he scrolled over the list. "Why do you need it?"

"I have a gut... and I'm going with it..."

"That's stupid—"

"We have to go....." Y/N's breath suddenly hitched as the scrolling came to a halt. His jaw clenched, gritting his teeth once his eyes had landed on the name— confirming his theory. "Like, now."

"Why-" She immediately cuts herself off as her gaze lingered on the name that flashed onto the screen. Her mouth slowly dropped in agape. "I thought he was dead?"

"Doesn't matter....We have to go."

"You think they'll let us in?" Jessica asked.

"I can make up a cover, don't worry."

THE STEEL GATES SIMULTANEOUSLY SWUNG as the lights repeatedly flickered from above. Guards stood on one end to another. Emotionless and rigid— apathetic yet on the active look out.

The maniacal laughter, the mad screams, and the unstable shivers that filled the halls had grown to an increase with each reluctant step Y/N and Jessica took.

During their small stroll following the guards, they would take small glances every now and then on each glass cell they passed. From psychotic giggles to even some who sat silently— scary silent.

"I was expecting Eddie to visit... It gets lonely over here... But this is so.... ironic."

A familiar voice hummed, causing the two to take their steps to a halt as they turned.

"The investigators..... It's been a long time..." He pushes himself off the cushion, leaning over to the barrier as a sick smile had tugged his lips. "I missed you... so much..."

"Kasady... We didn't actually come for you. But nice to see you... again," Y/N sarcastically winced, stuffing his hands down to his pockets as he lets out a teasing grin. "What's it like in here?"

"Why don't you step closer? I know they told you to mind your distance but... I'm not gonna hurt ya'.." Cletus croaked, ignoring the remarks as he outstretches his arms in a welcoming gesture. A twisted grin crossing his face, "I don't bite..."

Y/N contemplates, taking a small glance at the guards for consent— which he does receive from the reluctant nod they bobbed. He gave one last look over to Jessica, who merely shrugged, unknown to what else she could muster.

And take a step closer, he did. Unfazed, as he continues to maintain that same grin on his face.

"I'm here."

"Now that's what you call 'balls.' It's hard to find anyone with those nowadays." Cletus twitches, steadily tilting his head. "You remind me of him... Brock."

"Never heard of him."

"Well, maybe one day... you will. It's a small world after all..." The ginger smiles, widely. "This room... It feels like it's squeezing me. Too bad they can't afford more air in here." He childishly giggled to himself, earning an amused look that stilled both Jessica and Y/N's eyes. "What's the two of ya' doing here? Solving another mystery?"

"That's probably the smartest thing you've ever said." Y/N mused, taking a few steps closer to the glass. "You probably scare away some visitors, huh?"

"Noooo, I love visitors. I make sure they are.... welcomed. It's nice to see something from the outside world..."

"Yeah? What would you do if you were outside?"

Suddenly, an intense and narrow look had formed on Kasady's eyes. He looked more stiff compared to his prior coated appearance as he felt the cold sweat trickle down from the scalps from above.

In Y/N's reading— those words were a trigger.

The cold stare that beneathed his eyes, the raging strain of his once sly features.

He steadily tilted his head at the L/N, fumed with the flames that had overtaken his brain.

But above all, a shaky, forced, and -somewhat- terrifying grin of mischief had beamed as he pierced his eyes deep down at the man in front of him.

"If I get out of here.... Which I will.... There's gonna be carnage...."

Cletus suddenly slammed his fists against the glass, making a small crack that slightly dented the barrier.

But to no effect on Y/N's part, who continued to watch for his own levity.

A sick, twisted, demented, and unpleasant wry of laughter jolting out like a newborn's first fit of giggles.

Y/N maintains his unfazed state as he quirked an eyebrow of mere amusement.

The surging fit, uncontrollably erupting at an absurd pace— almost causing him to choke from his own insane seizure-like doing.

"Come on... let's go.." Jessica softly whispered, pulling Y/N out of his small trance as she gripped onto his forearm "He's not worth the time..."

Y/N slowly nodded, though not tearing his gaze away from the glass as Jessica pulled him back to their prior stroll.

Soon come chaos..... chaos..... soon come.....

(A/N: hmmm)

- -

THE IRON DOOR BUZZED as it gritted across the cement floors underneath. Layers of steel bearing sliding open one by one as the lights turned on with each individual border.

The serene atmosphere loud enough for even the smallest of footsteps to be heard. The halls looked like one long tunnel. At the end, only meeting a tinted glass wall instead of the usual saying of 'light ahead.'

Before they could even gather their thoughts, the metal bars from behind them closed, causing Y/N and Jessica to look at each other confusedly.

But both immediately shook the thought off, resuming their steps as heels clicking had now roomed the once undisturbable void.

It felt like one of the longest walks they had gone through, even from the large amount of progress they had made with each footstep.

And with a few seconds, those same steps came to a simultaneous halt.

Both Y/N and Jessica stared at the pitch-tinted glass wall anxiously, as they waited for their initial request.

And when their tints had been replaced with the clear side— it revealed a slumped sat man, left foot chained onto the ground. A dirty-white straitjacket that linked his arms together. Half of his face covered in full wounds and deep red swelling.

His once blank state suddenly turned to an enlightenment once he landed eyes on his unexpected guests.

"You just couldn't get rid of me, huh?"  The man chuckled, chains rattling as he pushed himself off the hard ground.

He slowly takes a step out of the once overcoming shadows. The chain bonds disabling him to move any further, now coming to the light as he was now visible enough for the naked eye, a smug grin crossing his lips.

"L/N..."

"Monveta..."

--

WORD COUNT: 8, 750

A/N: INITIALLY, THE CHAPTER WAS GONNA BE SUPER LONG BUT I DECIDED TO SPLIT IT INTO TWO

SORRY AGAIN FOR THE LONG WAIT... LOTTA STUFF HAS BEEN GOING ON SO I'M SO GLAD I WAS ABLE TO GET BACK WITH WRITING

DON'T FORGET TO VOTE! COMMENTS HIGHLY APPRECIATED!

WERE THERE ANYWAY TAKEAWAYS OR MOMENTS YOU ENJOYED DURING THE READ?

WHAT DID YOU THINK OF SOME OF THE REFERENCES/EASTER EGGS?

MAYBE EVEN SOME OF YOU COMIC BOOK FANS OR JUST MARVEL FANS IN GENERAL ARE FAMILIAR WITH RAVENCROFT

I HAD TO SOMEHOW INVOLVE IT AFTER SEEING THAT VENOM TRAILER

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE APPEARANCES/CAMEOS? WITH JESSICA JONES, CLETUS KASADY, AND THE RETURN OF FLINCHLEY MONVETA HIMSELF? (maybe even Wanda too)

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE FUTURE IS GONNA LOOK LIKE NOW THAT CHARACTERS: (e. KASADY) IS IN THIS UNIVERSE?

ANYTHING YOU WANT TO SEE? SUGGESTIONS, TIPS, ADVICE?

OTHER THAN THAT, HOPE YOU ENJOYED YOUR DAY/NIGHT OR.... WHATEVER FUCKING TIME IT IS, IM GONNA GO BACK TO SLEEP. SO, PEACE!

-FORTI