The Avengers (Marvel;Re)/Issue 1 (Captain America)

This is the first issue of Captain America's Avengers comic book series, part of the Marvel;Re initiative and the story arc, The Madness Beneath. The story continues in The Avengers (Captain America) #2.

Synopsis
The Avengers have expanded. Through the Avengers Wave protocol, Earth's mightiest heroes have expanded their ranks, inducting many other superhumans to aid them in fending off the growing threat of the universe. As the leader of the Avengers, Captain America is privileged to lead his own team of Avengers. Many were unable to fathom the Super-Soldier's choices, but the Star-Spangled Avenger knows best that nothing is impossible and his team could be an example to the world of superheroes. Together, they stand against the worst reality and unreality can throw at them as the Avengers.

Weeks have passed since Captain America has assembled his team. Their first task shall be the fight of their lives as they contend with the matter of impossibility and the realm of the eldritch. Deep beneath the waves, a group of rogue Kree led by the Leader of the Pursuer Corps has attacked many different Atlantean cities in search of the Serpent Crown. They seek to resurrect the Elder God, Set, for reasons unknown. The Avengers will have to stop them to prevent the destruction of Earth... all while they are unaware of the Kree's true objectives...

The Avengers Tower, Two weeks ago
At the top floor of the Earth’s Mightiest Heroes’ headquarters, Steve Rogers sat alone inside a conference room. The room was lit dimly, its main source of light coming from a blank blue screen across the conference table, where the Avengers confer to discuss their responsibilities and missions. Rogers, wearing his Captain America suit without the mask, stared into an iPad-like data slate. His eyes seemed weary, though conviction was well within his soul.

As the de facto leader of the Avengers, Steve was no doubt the prime candidate for a leader position of the Avengers Wave protocol’s newly formed teams. Thus far, Hank Pym and Thor Odinson had been chosen to lead Avengers of their own. Steve agreed to lead a team of his own picking, much to the excitement of others. Needless to say, the reactions of his comrades after he had announced his roster were... unexpected.

The disagreements of his fellow superheroes echoed throughout his mind, but Steve believed in his chosen. None of his recruits were Avengers or ‘heroes’, save for one, and one of them wasn’t even eligible for the Thunderbolts program. Steve promised his fellow Avengers that his team would be a benefit to the entire world, assuring them that their membership within the true and larger Avengers family would only come after thorough observation.

After a moment of contemplation, Steve raised his head in response to the opening of the auto-door behind him. Tony Stark, wearing his Model 37 ‘Bleeding Edge’ armor, entered the room with Thor Odinson and Henry Pym as his companions, the latter wearing the bodysuit of his Ant-Man persona.


 * Captain America: “Good afternoon, gentlemen.”


 * Iron Man: “Happy Sunday to you, too, Cap. So, how’s it been? Enjoying your time with Sharon? Must’ve been enjoyable knowing that we’re free for this entire week.”


 * Hank Pym: “Really, Stark? Don’t tell me you’ve been hitting on Ms. Carter since Annihilus minced your brains to pieces.”


 * Thor: “’Tis better for us to resolve the immediate problem at hand, my friends. Wait, no, I apologize, Captain America. I mean, situation.”


 * Captain America: “You may take a seat when you’re ready.”

Rogers’ stern voice resonated within the three heroes’ minds as they each take their seats, close to the Good Captain himself. Tony opened up his helmet, revealing his messy hair and dusted face.


 * Captain America: “What happened to you, Tony?”


 * Iron Man: “Angar the Screamer. That’s all you need to know.”


 * Hank Pym: “Alright then, buddy. Let’s get to the chase real quick, alright?”


 * Captain America: “I presume I haven’t been granted the operational clearance for my team, yes?”


 * Iron Man: “Yeah, about that. You know, I truly mean no offense here, but I’m going to ask you again: are you really sure about your picks? You’re obviously the one calling the shots around here, but... Steve... at this point, people are gonna mistake you for being a HYDRA puppet for recruiting terrorists.”

A small rumble of thunder was heard outside of the building, followed by Thor staring straight into the Iron Avenger’s soul.


 * Iron Man: “I am not referring to your handsome brother, Thor.”


 * Hank Pym: “Hang on, brother? Uh, look, I’m sorry for my lack of attention towards your announcement, but did you really recruit Loki?”


 * Thor: “It is Balder the Brave, Henry.”


 * Hank Pym: “Yeah, but is he your blood brother?”


 * Captain America: “All of you, stop it. You know these people are not villains. And don’t even--”


 * Iron Man: “Hiroim the Oldstrong. Let’s see. He is effectively being imprisoned as of now in Banner’s little penthouse and the SHIELD classifies him as a loose cannon at best. You ditched Rhodey for this merciless dude?”


 * Captain America: “Rhodey is still in our main roster, and Hiroim is not a bloodthirsty maniac. Must I remind you why the Hulk returned with the Warbound?”


 * Iron Man: “(Brief silence) I... will allow that.”


 * Hank Pym: “How about we address the elephant in room? Zora Vukovic, also known as Victorious. She illegally received the Power Cosmic, and I’m talking ‘legal’ in the cosmic sense. She nearly killed the Fantastic Four under Doom’s command and from the interrogation two months ago, psychic evaluation said that she hasn’t relinquished her...  ‘love’ for that metal-masked sucker. It may have been a while since that report was compiled, but old habits die hard, Cap.”


 * Captain America: “So, all I need is to discharge Hiroim and Zora from the team?”


 * Iron Man: “Pretty much, yeah.”


 * Captain America: “And not let both of them be redeemed?”

The room went silent for a few seconds.


 * Thor: “If I may interject, I personally have nothing against your team, Captain Rogers. I, too, believe in redemption. Perhaps, all of us have overlooked Victorious’ potential for good. For once, she is neither the likes of Loki nor MODOK. Latveria may be a place ruled by a misguided egomaniac, but that does not mean that everyone from such nation is of evil. Tell me, have you heard the tale of Skurge, the Executioner?”


 * Iron Man: “Okay, is there anything we missed from him aside from him being the Enchantress’ slave?”


 * Thor: “Indeed. And you were not there to witness the turn of heart he undertook when Asgard was on the brink of destruction.”

The panels display scenes of Skurge fighting against hordes of skeleton warriors and even Hela herself, wielding his Bloodaxe and twin assault rifles.


 * Thor: “It was a time of death when Hela decided to absorb Asgard into Niffleheim to expand the borders of Hel. Amora was employed by the Death Goddess to murder as many Asgardians there are so their souls may be used to empower her to assimilate the Realm Eternal. The Allfather was deep in the Odinsleep and could not resist her powers. Under the Enchantress’ command, Skurge slaughtered many of our people without remorse. That was until his heart recognized what love truly is instead of enthrallment, realizing the carnages he had committed. He was freed from Amora’s spell... and voluntarily spearheaded our counterattack to drive Hela’s forces back to Niffleheim. We drove them back into Nastrond, all the way to the bridge of Gjallerbru. That was when Hela unleashed the full force of her entire army, which had been waiting for us all along. We were utterly outmatched. Even I was unable to beat back the draugr. But Skurge? When we decided to retreat, I was to hold back the undead tide so the Einherjar and my friends could escape. The Executioner knocked me out... and from the last visions I saw, he destroyed the Ship of the Dead with his own axe and scores of Hela’s cursed army with his... assault rifles. In the end, he saved us all with his sacrifice and his soul gained entry to Valhalla. Do you see now, my friends? Victorious may not be Skurge, but she deserves a chance. Her heart is not as black as the void itself. Doom did not corrupt her heart, and her misguided view may be swept away as she spends time with your team, Captain. The same applies for Hiroim. He is a noble warrior. All of you simply expected none of the impossible.”

The God of Thunder imparted his wisdom towards his comrades. In a moment of clarity, Stark and Pym realized the truth behind Thor’s words although the latter was quite interested in another fact.


 * Hank Pym: “When did Skurge get himself assault rifles?”


 * Thor: “I do not know. But if you wish to see his armaments, Asgard’s armory stores replicas of his armor and weapons.”


 * Iron Man: “Well, I guess you’re right, Thor. I didn’t expect you to be wiser than... well...”


 * Thor: “Believe me, Iron Man. I know when it is to jest and be true.”


 * Hank Pym: “Okay then, Captain, you nearly got yourself your clearance. Now, let’s discuss each of your members. Before that, tell me you’ve recruited them with your persuasion skills.”


 * Captain America: “Whatever you say, Pym. I can take you to personally meet them in two weeks from now. I asked them to rendezvous at Camp Hammond. If you’re wondering, yes, Rhodey allowed me to assemble there.”


 * Iron Man: “You know, Cap, I’m curious. Counting you, your team has six people while the Avengers Wave designates the default number of Avenger teams to be seven. You know you could just put both Rhodey and the Shadow Priest in, right?”


 * Captain America: “I do not wish him to be killed, Stark. And no, my team is not disposable or expendable. The universe is a big place, and I want my team to be a versatile collection of gifted individuals who can handle many threats in different contexts.”


 * Iron Man: “So... you replaced Rhodey with Warlock for tech-support?”


 * Hank Pym: “Geez, Stark. James said that he didn’t mind about it, anyway.”


 * Iron Man: “Yeah, I know. I was just joking. ‘Kay then, let’s see what’s on the list.”

Rogers handed over his data-slate to Stark, who then displayed its content to the gigantic screen overlooking the room. Five portraits of Rogers’ recruits were seen, arranged clockwise alphabetically. Stark tapped on the first member of this team: Ghost Rider.


 * Iron Man: “(Whistles) Well, this is one blazing chick you got. When you said you wanted Ghost Rider, I thought you were going for Johnny Blaze.”


 * Hank Pym: “Wait, there’s another Ghost Rider?”


 * Thor: “Ghost Riders exist, Pym. The Blaze motorcyclist is the one we see the most. I have lived long enough to recognize the blazing skulls of these unholy creatures.”


 * Hank Pym: “So you’re telling me that there are a thousand more Ghost Riders out there?”


 * Thor: “Down there in Mephisto’s realm, yes.”


 * Iron Man: “I’m curious, Captain. Did you know her before this?”


 * Captain America: “I only recognized Blaze and Ketch as Ghost Riders. I discovered her when I was searching for the former.”


 * Hank Pym: “Guess she accepted the offer because you’re the one speaking.”


 * Captain America: “No, Hank. I promised to help her, and I don’t intend to break such promise. I had to persuade SHIELD for the funds, too.”


 * Iron Man: “Wait, what?”


 * Thor: “You are saying that you hired her?”


 * Captain America: “Just... listen to me.”

The scene flashes back to an unspecified period of time, when Captain America is seen standing in front of the Sanctum Sanctorum of Doctor Strange at night.

Underneath a street light, Rogers, in his civilian clothes, awaited for the doors to the fabled Sanctum Sanctorum to open. To regular humans, even such as Steve, the Sanctum looked like any other building in New York. The Super-Soldier knew better that inside the building, the Sorcerer Supreme himself resided, perhaps waging a war in another dimension for the cause of Earth. Lucky for him, Strange was available.


 * Wong: “(Opens the door) Good evening, Mister Rogers. How can I help you?”


 * Steve Rogers: “Good evening, Mister Wong. Is Stephen inside? I believe I have an appointment with him.”


 * Wong: “Ah, I see. Come in, Captain Rogers. The Good Doctor is expecting you.”

Wong led Rogers through the interiors of the Sanctum Sanctorum, where he found out that things weren’t really as strange as what Strange may suggest. Not that it couldn’t bend the laws of reality by itself, anyway. Soon, he met Doctor Strange himself face to face, floating in the air while reading the Book of the Vishanti. Upon noticing, Strange landed on the ground to greet the Captain.


 * Dr. Strange: “Greetings, Captain! Thank the Vishanti you have arrived unharmed. How are you doing?”


 * Steve Rogers: “I am fine and steady, Stephen. I thought the Sanctum would be more... erratic, knowing of your line of work.”


 * Dr. Strange: “Ah, make no mistake, Steve. Hours ago, this place was a battleground beyond imagination. Now, what have we to discuss here?”


 * Steve Rogers: “I’m looking for Ghost Rider. Johnny Blaze.”

Strange’s face contorted into one of disappointment, which Steven quickly noticed.


 * Steve Rogers: “Is there something wrong?”


 * Dr. Strange: “Unfortunately, yes. A few days ago, he came barging in to the Sanctum demanding to fight Dormammu. Time may flow differently in the Dark Dimension, but I fear something terrible has happened to him. I could not establish contact with him, even with the most potent spells of the Vishanti. Clea... she came here, but she knew nothing about Blaze’s predicament.”


 * Steve Rogers: “So you are saying that Johnny disappeared?”


 * Dr. Strange: “Yes... it was such an inconvenience. However, I know another Spirit of Vengeance who would be likely to help you. I assume you are seeking him for the Avengers Wave?”


 * Steve Rogers: “That is correct. Now, who is it that you speak of?”

Stephen conjured an astral image of an adult female of hispanic descent, standing just two inches shorter than Steve.


 * Dr. Strange: “Her name is Alejandra. Alejandra Jones. I can pinpoint her whereabouts, if she’s still in this plane of existence. Do you wish to meet her now, or tomorrow?”


 * Steve Rogers: “Even if her stamina is infinite, I don’t think meeting her at the dead of night would be the best idea.”


 * Dr. Strange: “Very well then. Know that she usually roams around the countryside of Nicaragua. She has a village under her protection called Esperanza. That’s ‘hope’ in Spanish. Be wary, Mr. Rogers. She is not like any other Ghost Rider that has ever lived and died.”


 * Steve Rogers: “I will watch out, Stephen. Thank you for your time. I hope you have an enjoyable evening. (Turns to Wong) You too, Wong.”


 * Wong: “Thank you, Captain Rogers.”


 * Dr. Strange: “You are welcome. Come to me anytime you require my assistance. I am more than happy to help.”


 * Steve Rogers: “Don’t hesitate to call on the Avengers or me for help, too, Doctor. Farewell.”

The outskirts of Esperanza, Nicaragua, the next day...

From the jungles and into hill overlooking Esperanza, Alejandra Jones rode her bike outside of her Ghost Rider form. She stopped her bike just a few meters away from a blonde, brown-jacketed man observing the village.


 * Alejandra Jones: “We don’t get many visitors around here. If we do, they’re most likely to be proxenetas who don’t know what they’re doing.”


 * Steve Rogers: “I’m just another man in need of assistance.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “You? (Chuckles) The last thing we need is a liberalist scum who wants to buy us off with lies.”


 * Steve Rogers: “(Turns around) Lucky for you, that’s not what I’m here for, Ms. Jones.”

Alejandra was taken aback at the unmistakable look of Steve Rogers. Out of every person she expected, she never guessed that Captain America himself would visit her village. Nevertheless, as a Ghost Rider, she’s not one to be underestimated or threatened. Although she was quite clueless in how to react towards this.


 * Alejandra Jones: “C—Captain America? What are you doing here?”


 * Steve Rogers: “I’m looking for a Spirit of Vengeance, Lady Jones. I’m looking for you.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “What do you want, Captain? You want me in the Avengers? (Sniggers and smirks) That can’t be. They won’t let anyone wild in, let alone a Ghost Rider.”


 * Steve Rogers: “Truth be told, you are correct. I’ll fill you in on this one: the Avengers are expanding, and now we seek more gifted people to fill in our ranks. To show that anybody can be a hero, and that we are trustworthy to protect this planet from all sorts of danger. I was hoping for Blaze to fill in a spot in my group, but Doctor Strange told me that he was missing in the Dark Dimension.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “(Briefly silent) I... I have a job to do, Captain, and I’m sure you disdain all the... deaths that I have to cause to get rid of this world of evil. Do you know how a Ghost Rider works?”


 * Steve Rogers: “Your lethality and powers are why I opt for a Ghost Rider to be on-board, Alejandra. We’re going to face threats bigger than any of us, in size or power. Forgive me for my lack of knowledge, but your Penance Stare and supernatural abilities will assist us in handling some of the more infernal adversaries we may face along the way.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “What about Doctor Strange himself? I thought you have many other mystics available at your disposal to fill in your ranks? Doctor Druid? Doctor Voodoo? Even the Black Panther, from what I can gather.”


 * Steve Rogers: “Strange is all but a reserve Avenger, called upon only in the direst of threats. Doctor Anthony Druid is nowhere to be found, most likely dead. Sebastian Druid is already a member of the Secret Warriors. Black Panther? He’s already an official Avenger. I require someone truly new. (Pulls out a data-slate) This device has the list of all of my team’s potential recruits, and I’ve boiled it down to five possible choices. You are in that list.”

Rogers wasted no time in activating the slate’s holographic display, showing Alejandra the models of his Avengers’ potential members. Only Alejandra lacked a model due to the fact that her spot was supposed to be filled by Johnny Blaze, who was displayed instead.


 * Alejandra Jones: “You know we don’t take orders very well, right? By we, I am referring to your Avengers.”


 * Steve Rogers: “I’m not going to lead you to your deaths or force you to be obedient to my every word. I only ask for your strength to protect this planet. Should you refuse, then I can reconsider my choice once I return home. I should tell you, Ms. Jones, regardless of this conversation’s outcome, SHIELD will be giving financial, psychological, and clinical assistance to the Esperanza’s inhabitants, whom I discovered were mostly victims of human trafficking, prostitution, and slavery.”

Jones responded by looking at the holographic displays of her future comrades, thinking over Rogers’ offer and what may come to the Esperanza. After some thinking, she gave him a reply.


 * Alejandra Jones: “If I were away fighting battles with... the Avengers, who would be protecting this village?”


 * Steve Rogers: “It wasn’t easy encouraging him for this task. But he has agreed to put this village into his range of responsibilities.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “Him?"

Seconds after Jones had voiced her confusion, a mighty gust of wind blew over the Nicaraguan village, sending a chilling breeze through every villager there, as well as Rogers and Jones. A figure veiled in the shadows of the jungle’s trees soon walked into the scene, revealing his presence to the duo.


 * ???: “So this is the Spirit of Vengeance you spoke of, Rogers? Needless to say, I haven’t seen many female Ghost Riders throughout my long life, let alone one so noble.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “W—who are you?”


 * Steve Rogers: “Alejandra, meet Ajak. Up north, the Aztecs worshipped him as Quetzalcoatl, the Wind God while the Incas from the south called him Tecumotzin, the Lord of Flight. In the hidden city of Polaria somewhere in Russia, he is the Eternals’ Celestial Speaker. Simple enough, he’s a god.”


 * Ajak: “I wouldn’t call myself a god, Captain America. If experience has taught me anything, it’s that even ‘gods’ are not exempt from the cold hands of death.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “I see. It’s... nice to meet you, Ajak.”

The Eternal and the Ghost Rider shook hands. Indeed, this was a one-in-a-million moment in the history of this planet.


 * Ajak: “Likewise, it’s a pleasure for me to see you. Besides, I’m quite happy to have another job aside from staying silent every day to await the Celestials’ message.”


 * Steve Rogers: “Thank you for heeding the call, Ajak. I apologize for robbing you of your time.”


 * Ajak: “There is no need to apologize, Captain. You, young Rider, will not have to worry about your village. I will do my best in protecting it. Not from the shadows, perhaps. But your hopeful friends will be safe.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “You know, now I’m wondering why you didn’t just recruit Ajak for your Avengers.”

It’s Ajak’s turn to be confused, turning his head towards Captain America to question him.


 * Ajak: “Your Avengers?”


 * Steve Rogers: “Long story, Ajak. Perhaps Ikaris could tell you things about it.”


 * Ajak: “Oh dear, he’s in the Avengers now?”


 * Steve Rogers: “No. Not yet, at least.”


 * Ajak: “Ha! Alright, then. I will be on my way, now. I’m sure I saw a convoy of poachers four kilometers from here.”


 * Alejandra Jones: “Poachers?”


 * Ajak: “The order of nature must be preserved, Alejandra. I promise you, I will only kill those who are deserving.”

Alejandra’s face turned to utter shock.


 * Ajak: “That’s how you Ghost Riders roll, yes?”


 * Alejandra Jones: “Yeah... yeah, you can say that. So, Cap, when do we start?”

Steve responded by giving her an Avengers Identicard bearing her credentials. To her surprise, most of the information written there was accurate.


 * Steve Rogers: “When that card rings ‘Avengers Assemble’, it will direct you through its in-built GPS to our assembly point in Camp Hammond. That’s in the United States, yes, but I’m sure you can make it. Thank you for joining in, Ms. Jones. We are pleased to have you on-board.”

The scene snaps back to the Avengers Tower, still set in the past.


 * Iron Man: "Hold on a second. You didn't just persuade a freaking Ghost Rider and SHIELD for money, but also an Eternal?"


 * Thor: "I am intrigued, Captain. Word from the Eternals and Hercules said that he was murdered by a Skrullian God."


 * Captain America: "Ajak didn't say anything about his death. I didn't even know that he died until you said that. Nothing's off with him from what I can tell, anyway."


 * Hank Pym: "What the—the Skrulls have gods? Man, I'm the eight smartest person on this planet and I know nothing?!"


 * Thor: "There are things mortals aren't meant to know, Doctor Pym. I am unsure if such knowledge is forbidden, but now, you know that even a race like the Skrulls have a pantheon of gods."


 * Hank Pym: "Okay, so, I assume the Shi'ar has gods, too?"


 * Thor: "Yes."


 * Hank Pym: "What about the Kree?"


 * Thor: "No."


 * Hank Pym: "Thank God."


 * Iron Man: "Alright, Ghost Rider's a pass. Man, if she's a supermodel instead of a gothic hellfire-slinging biker..."

After giving his remark, Stark tapped on the next icon: Balder Odinson.


 * Iron Man: "I'm tempted to just give him a pass considering how he's your brother, Thor."


 * Thor: "Nepotism brings nothing good, Stark."


 * Iron Man: "Yeah, yeah, I got it. Let's see... super strength, super stamina, super durability, super speed, super agility, invulnerability... oh hold on, is this the guy whose weakness is the mistletoe?"


 * Captain America: "I was counting on T'Challa to provide him with some sort of boots that can remedy his weakness. Fortunately, he was able to deliver the request earlier this morning."


 * Hank Pym: "You want Balder to wear vibranium boots?"


 * Captain America: "T'Challa said that they're more like 'organic socks' made of magic-laced vibranium. It's like the footwear that he uses to walk across water and step without making a noise."


 * Thor: "Captain, I should remind you that whatever Balder is wearing won't save him from his doom in Ragnarok."


 * Captain America: "I know. Let's hope those boots persist until Ragnarok arrives one day."


 * Hank Pym: "Can he do anything other than basically be an invincible, thousand-year expert swordsman?"


 * Thor: "He is the God of Light. He can use the light of the sun, the fire, or the mirror to his advantage."


 * Iron Man: "That's very vague, you know."


 * Thor: "Aye. Such vagueness is what makes it unpredictable. One day, you can have him sneaking through the mirrors of Asgard to peek showering maidens and another lighting up suns in the damp corners of Hel with mere bonfires."


 * Iron Man: "Whoa! Didn't expect Balder to be quite the looker."


 * Thor: "It was around two thousand years ago when even we had to deal with hormones, Stark."


 * Hank Pym: "Oh, God, how could a race of gods be afflicted by freakin' teenage hormone problems?!"


 * Thor: "I'm afraid the answer to your question is forbidden."


 * Iron Man: "Okay, okay, so now we know that every humanoid being in existence has hormonal problems. Now, you know we're giving Balder a pass, but I have to ask you and Thor about something."


 * Captain America: "Speak up."


 * Iron Man: "Does Odin approve this?"


 * Captain America: "He does, Stark. What I am concerned of is Balder himself."


 * Iron Man: "How so?"

Flashback to Asgard, a day after his recruitment of Ghost Rider.

Not many mortals have the privilege of visiting the Realm Eternal. Captain America, a mortal respected in Asgard even by Odin himself, was privileged to enter the throne room of the All-Father with the God of Thunder as his companion. Upon his entry, Odin's personal guards, the Thunder Guard saluted him and Thor alongside the Einherjar. Steve was astonished by this, yet felt himself just like any other man, nevertheless. He's just a man, and he will always be a man, regardless of what respect he has garnered.


 * Odin: "Hail to you, Captain America! Hail to you, Shield of Midgard, Friend to Asgard, and Warrior Excelsior!"


 * Captain America: "Hail to you, Odin Borson! All-Father of Asgard and Supreme Defender of the Nine Realms!"


 * Thor: "Father, I am here on behalf of the Good Captain. He wishes to speak with you of something crucial."


 * Odin: "Aye. Step forward then, Captain Rogers. What is it that you require?"


 * Captain America: "All-Father Odin, the Avengers have broadened its reach and it is no longer a single team of Midgard's mightiest heroes. I possess the duty to establish and recruit enhanced individuals for the team under my leadership. I humbly ask you to lend me the strength of one of your sons, Mighty All-Father."


 * Odin: "Is Thor not an Avenger already, or has he been kicked out?"


 * Thor: "Father, I lead my own Avengers at this moment. He and I are still members of the core Avengers."


 * Odin: "I see. Do you not wish for the strength of one of the Warriors Three? Or Lady Sif, or Brunnhilde the Valkyrie, perhaps?"


 * Captain America: "All-Father, I am graced to even have the girth of Volstagg bolstering the Avengers. However, I beg for your forgiveness, for I have come here seeking the light of Balder Odinson."

Odin was left wordless at his request and seemed unsettled. Thor turned to Steve with a shrug and the latter stepped back to stand beside the Thunderer. In his wisdom, Odin thought to himself and eventually came to a decision, standing up with his Gungnir and proclaiming a declaration.


 * Odin: "Bring me my son, Balder the Brave!"

Responding to the All-Father's request was the sunrays penetrating the windows brightening themselves, temporarily blinding Captain America but not the Asgardians. Through the sunlight, Balder makes his presence known, standing in front of his father, brother, and to-be recruiter.


 * Balder: "I have come at your wish, father."


 * Odin: "My son... Midgard has a need of you."

Balder responded to his father's statement by turning back, seeing Captain America and his brother, Thor, awaiting him.


 * Balder: "My beloved brother! Midgard has yet to consume you, I see!"


 * Thor: "And you haven't been embraced by Hela, I noticed!"

The two brothers embraced each other after having not seen each other for a while. After such a heartwarming moment, Balder turned his attention towards Captain America, who saluted him as Midgard's soldiers would to their commanding officer.


 * Balder: "Ah, you are the 'Steve Rogers' I've been hearing all this time? Your formalities are unneeded, Friend to Asgard."


 * Captain America: "I didn't know how to... respond, Balder. Nevertheless, I am glad to see you."


 * Thor: "Indeed he is, brother. He seeks to recruit you for the Avengers."

Balder instantly locked his eyes on to Cap's own, following up with a voice that suddenly turned the lighthearted atmosphere into one of dead seriousness.


 * Balder: "You wish me to become a member of your merry band of heroes? All while the Realm Eternal is beset by the threat of Ragnarok every single day? Would you want me to abandon my post and let Asgard lose another warrior?"


 * Thor: "Brother, he does not restrict whatsoever. All he asks is for..."


 * Balder: "My light, blade, and strong arm, yes? Does he not know how death looms over us every single day and how the tapestry of fate constantly jeopardizes our lives?"


 * Captain America: "Asgard has known death more than Midgard will ever know in lifetimes, Balder. But as days pass, we are constantly attacked by dangers perhaps even greater than what the Nine Realms could offer. I'm not going to lie. From experience, I could tell that Asgard's enemies are also Midgard's enemies, and many beings who seek to dominate Midgard also seeks to overtake the All-Father's rule. Asgard and Midgard have always been allies despite our differences. I know I can't coerce you whatsoever, but I'll ask you this once: Will you join the Avengers?"

Balder turned to Thor with a steely stare, prompting Thor to nod in agreement, implying that he's down with Balder's decision, no matter what it would be.


 * Balder: "Tell me, Captain. Who will fight alongside you?"

Steve opened up his data-slate and projected the holographic models of his Avengers' members. Johnny Blaze's Ghost Rider model had been noticeably replaced by Alejandra's, which was also colored green to denote the fact that she had been inducted.


 * Balder: "You have only recruited this... fair maiden?"


 * Captain America: "She is a Ghost Rider, Balder."


 * Balder: "A Spirit of Vengeance? Astonishing! How were you able to recruit one into this warband of yours, Captain?"


 * Captain America: "She's more human than you can think, Balder. She's a fine ally."


 * Balder: "Fine, indeed. You seek allies more exotic than I could imagine. I respect that. A Sakaaran Shadow Priest, a Technarch, and whoever the other maiden is."


 * Captain America: "Her name is Victorious. She wields the Power Cosmic courtesy of Victor von Doom's experiment."


 * Balder: "I see. A woman with the Devourer of Worlds' power."


 * Thor: "So, what do you say, brother?"

Balder briefly turned to Odin, who in turn gave a nod of approval to him. Afterwards, he proceeded to converse with Captain America.


 * Balder: "Know this, Captain. I expect our battles to be great and mighty. I expect us to fight monsters, demons, and despots who seek to foolishly assert themselves as the rulers of realms. Have my presence be worth it, Captain. I will not spend my time harrying mere crooks into brigs while I could instead cut down a million fire demons and illuminate Hel's dampest corners into oblivion."


 * Captain America: "Indeed. And when the time comes, I expect you to fight as powerful as you'll ever be."


 * Balder: "(Holds out his hand) None shall stand before the sword of Balder."


 * Captain America: "(Shakes his hand) And none shall stay our hands from avenging."

Back to the Avengers Tower...


 * Iron Man: "Something tells me Balder isn't too keen on being an Avenger."


 * Thor: "Understand how mighty Asgard's enemies are compared to Midgard's, Stark. The World Eater, the Skrulls, the Kree, and all may be indomitable, but they do not come as frequent as fire demons, draugr, dark elves, or frost giants."


 * Hank Pym: "Hold on, you're saying that a bunch of stupid giants present a greater threat than freakin' Galactus?"


 * Thor: "Stars have been frozen by frost giant warbands within mere days, Dr. Pym. The dark elves' magic allow them to manipulate black holes while the fire demons can melt down mountains within seconds and Hela's army can drown worlds with tides of corpses unimpeded."


 * Captain America: "We're going to fight all of them with Balder, anyway. I just hope he remains with us long enough until Ragnarok."


 * Thor: "I must admit. Something might be off with my brother, Steve. He spent a long time in Hel from what I heard battling Hela's hordes and his men whispered that something has changed. They presume that Hela casted a spell that drove him to be more suicidal. By the All-Father, I disbelieve this notion. Of this case, the All-Father falls silent..."


 * Hank Pym: "Will you be there to stop him if he goes mad, Thor? I'm not asking this as a jab, but even your dad's unsure about his brains right now."


 * Thor: "He will be brought to Odin so he can be cured. I give you my word."


 * Captain America: "The Avengers will be there to stop him if Hela tries anything stupid with him, Thor. I assure you. If for whatever reason he's out of the team, I'll do my best to recruit another to replace him."


 * Thor: "Aye."


 * Iron Man: "Okay, he's a pass under deep surveillance. You know, if he goes cuckoo, I'm not gonna blame you, Cap. You didn't know."


 * Captain America: "I'll make sure they all return from their missions sane, alive, and in one piece."


 * Iron Man: "Good to know. Now, how about this warrior-monk next?"

Stark tapped on the icon of Hiroim the Oldstrong, displaying his appearance and past video footages of him in action. In one of the videos, Hiroim was shown knocking out Iron Fist with a kick: a moment from an unforgettable occurrence in the past.


 * Iron Man: "(Commenting at the video) Ooh, that's gotta hurt."


 * Hank Pym: "So this guy is capable of geokinesis and... magic?"


 * Captain America: "That's what I was told. He was a Shadow Priest on Sakaar, so it's not impossible that he knows magic. SHIELD reports said that he broke down Strange's mystical wards in the war."


 * Iron Man: "They're calling that a war?"


 * Hank Pym: "A World War Hulk, you may say."


 * Thor: "How did SHIELD even know about such feat? I may not be there when it happened, but there's no doubt that they were there, too."


 * Captain America: "SHIELD Report #870, compiled by Agent Carmilla Black, AKA Scorpion."


 * Hank Pym: "Since when did a Spider-Man baddie work for SHIELD?"


 * Iron Man: "She's supposedly Bruce's daughter with Monica Rappaccini, former Scientist Supreme of AIM. Okay, that sounded weirder than I thought. How many wives did Green Jaws have?"


 * Thor: "Does that matter? He already has a son who is very much like himself."


 * Iron Man: "Yeah, about that. Come to think of it, why didn't you recruit Skaar? He's bigger, stronger, and from what I know, he can manipulate the earth, too."


 * Captain America: "Banner said that he's not prepared yet in becoming a hero. He's sent the Juggernaut to space by wits, but he's still having a hard time using the Oldpower. One small mistake, and he could crack asunder this entire planet."


 * Hank Pym: "That kind of contradicts Balder's request, don't you think? He basically demanded to fight evils so great that Skaar's apocalyptic powers are required to win."


 * Captain America: "Until we need his power to defeat Thanos, Galactus, or the Void, we'll keep a tight leash on how much power we need."


 * Iron Man: "Got it. Well, forgive me if I'm wrong, but did anyone hear somebody saying that each and every one of the Warbound is as strong as the Hulk's old self?"


 * Thor: "I beg to differ. While they are powerful, neither Hiroim nor the Warbound can rival the phenomenal strength of the Hulk's many incarnations."


 * Captain America: "I understand. He is sufficiently potent for this team, believe me."

Another flashback occurs, now taking place in the middle of a desert in New Mexico.

They said that the Hulk was born in New Mexico. When the Gamma Bomb was detonated outside the Los Diablos Missile Base, a large amount of Gamma Energy lingered around the site even up to this day. When the Gamma Compound was built by the combination of Bruce's intellect and the Hulk's strength to provide shelter for both of their allies, the residual Gamma Energy provided the base a near-infinite amount of power. Banner's data said that the energy could remain for another two hundred years and due to the Compound's revolutionary system of energy usage, it wouldn't be wasted until the next millennium. Only Banner's (and the Hulk's) confidantes knew of this, so it was dumbfounding to see not one, but two cosmic conquerors working together to siphon the Gamma Energies for their own purposes.

Earlier this morning, the Sentinel of Liberty arrived at the Gamma Compound to meet with the Warbound with the discussion of the Avengers in mind. Instead of a nice morning chat with Sakaar's finest warriors, the Captain found himself fighting alongside them against the terrible duo of Reptyl, the Space Pirate, and Armageddon, the Lord of the Troyjans, three miles away from the base. Rogers may be out of the Hulk and his comrades' power, but there's no reason for him to stay out of the fight. It was a good opportunity to truly see the strength of Hiroim the Oldstrong, the recruit he's eyeing for.

In a struggle of strength, the Hulk was briefly triumphant in punching Armageddon through three large stones after taking a large blast of cosmic energy to the chest.


 * Hulk: "Had enough?"


 * Armageddon: "You know the answer to that, brute."

The Troyjan continued his reply with another cosmic blast from his cannon which the Hulk handily dodged. He bolted towards his enemy in lightning speed, but he was already expecting the Green Giant's move, unleashing a massive shockwave-inducing punch to his face that sent him flying over the Warbound and Captain America, who were seen battling against Reptyl. Unlike Armageddon, Reptyl may seem more ridiculous, but he's the stronger of the two.

Skaar, Son of Hulk, evenly traded blows with the cosmic pirate but found himself overwhelmed by his energy attacks.


 * Reptyl: "For the Son of Hulk, you sure have none of your father's strength!"


 * Skaar: "A son of Hulk, Reptyl. For once, I have something more than his strength. (Skaar quickly unsheathes and sheathes his sword, slashing Reptyl's stomache and distracting him long enough to create an opportunity for a headlock) I have a family."


 * Korg: "Smashing work, kid. (Korg smashes a giant mace at Reptyl's wounded stomache before delivering a headbutt)"


 * Elloe Kaifi: "Hold still! (Elloe rams her monomolecular blade right into Reptyl's stomache before jumping away and leaving the weapon as it is)"


 * Reptyl: "Gah! I know what you seek to do, Sakaarans! You think I am unaccustomed in combat?! I am Reptyl! My powers are like unto a god! (Reptyl reverse-headbutts Skaar and unleashes a cosmic burst that knocks away Korg. Lucky for Elloe, Captain America steps right in to protect her from the blast. Despite this, they're still sent flying back. Luckily, Cap's shield covered their landing.)"


 * Captain America: "(Recovers and discovers Elloe laying right above him) You alright?"


 * Elloe Kaifi: "(Smirks) Better than ever. (Elloe immediately leaps away from him to return to the battle)"

Skaar shook his head to recover from the dizziness, yet found no respite when Reptyl leapt at him at breakneck speeds, pinning him to the ground.


 * Reptyl: "Surrender, you all! My powers are beyond anything you've ever known! With your Gamma Energies, I will be even greater!"


 * Skaar: "I was born of two powers, Reptyl. You hungered for Gamma, now taste the Old Power!"

Skaar immediately charged his fists with the geokinetic energy of Earth, channeled through the Old Power within him. His twin fists of stone sent Reptyl flying into the atmosphere.


 * Skaar: "(Gets up) Well, there goes your sword, Elloe."


 * Elloe Kaifi: "It'll be back in moments. Besides, we still have someone else to contend with..."


 * Korg: "(Grunts) Where is Hiroim?"

Korg's concern was replied by the Oldstrong himself flying above him, apparently getting punched by Armageddon.


 * Captain America: "Lots of people flying these days."


 * Armageddon: "And you will fly too if you remain in my way, Captain. Let you suffocate in space and nail your corpse to the Moon."


 * Captain America: "Bold words for someone I just met. We can do this all day, you know."


 * Armageddon: "Indeed. (Charges up his arm cannon) An entire day to consume those Gamma energies and become a god!"

The heroes were left without an answer as Reptyl landed in the middle of the group, scattering and silencing them for a moment to have some words with Armageddon.


 * Reptyl: "So... you seek to betray me, Armageddon? I can sense the cosmic ebb well enough to hear what you were saying!"


 * Armageddon: "You think I'm unable to do the same, fool? I had expected your treachery even before we reached this forsaken planet!"


 * Reptyl: "Then why did you ask for my help if you know what'll happen?"


 * Armageddon: "I can't fight the Hulk alone! His strength outmatches both my power and intelligence! There is nothing in the universe that can outsmart his muscles! Besides, do you not note his ability to speak?"


 * Reptyl: "The ability to speak does not equate to superior intellect! Do you not note yourself?"


 * Armageddon: "Silence, you tailed mongrel! You don't even have a brain to speak of!"


 * Reptyl: "Screw you, simian! I will depart this planet with the Gamma and raid the Troyjan Empire clean of its riches!"


 * Armageddon: "Ha! Try if you can, Reptyl! When your ship arrived on my planet, I had my engineers rig it to explode should you disobey me! Now, you have doomed your entire crew! The only family you ever know!"


 * Reptyl: "Engineers? Ha! You Troyjans never had the smartest technicians in the universe! You think I didn't sense those cosmic mines you planted on my ship's starboard? Truly, you lack both the strength and wit to even defeat him!"

Reptyl's fingers pointed to another direction, promptly directing Armageddon's perception to where he's pointing at. Who's he pointing at? What's he pointing at? Nothing.


 * Armageddon: "What are you pointing at?! There's no one there!"


 * Reptyl: "The Hulk is right over there! (The Hulk is seen walking slowly towards the two from a distance) Do you not notice the Green Giant at the distance with your eyes?"


 * Armageddon: "(Slants his eye to notice the Hulk walking at them) He has recovered! Quickly! We must strike him down before he reaches us!"


 * Reptyl: "On the condition that the Gamma energies are mine!"

None of the two noticed the rest of the heroes waking up to their argument.


 * Armageddon: "You get a quarter, I'll get the rest!"


 * Reptyl: "I want them all!"


 * Armageddon: "Why are you such a greedy bastard?! At least I tried to share with you!"


 * Reptyl: "Oh, shut up, hypocrite! Did you share the royalty's food to the people while they were starving?"


 * Armageddon: "(Unintelligible curse)! You knew nothing about that!"


 * Reptyl: "They were dying because of you!"


 * Armageddon: "Oh, yes, did you think I ate anything when we were on the verge of death? Our farming worlds were all eaten by Galactus!"


 * Reptyl: "You blame every disaster inflicted to your people on Galactus? Clearly, you aspire to be a Herald of Galactus!"

(At a distance, the heroes converse with hushed tones)


 * Skaar: "Well this just got a whole lot more interesting."
 * Korg: "We should attack them while they're distracted. This is the perfect opportunity to attack."
 * Hiroim: "Let them kill themselves. The Green Scar is on his way to smash them both. Not that we can knock them out now."
 * Elloe Kaifi: "Reptyl survived Skaar's Old Power punch. What makes you think we can take them on?"
 * Skaar: "Elloe, notice whose blade is embedded in his stomache?"
 * Captain America: "I didn't think we'd win by letting the two sort out their differences."
 * Hiroim: "Ah, Captain. The Warbound apologize for not being able to provide the best hospitality."
 * Captain America: "Don't worry, Hiroim. At least now I know how you people fight. Impressive."
 * Elloe Kaifi: "It's good to have a visitor here who's not keen on arresting us or asking how we're doing, Captain."
 * Captain America: "How are you doing?"
 * Elloe Kaifi: "(Sigh) No."
 * Korg: "From what I heard, you're here to discuss about the Avengers, yes?"
 * Captain America: "That is correct. But first, I bring some good news for you all."
 * Hiroim: "What is it?"
 * Captain America: "SHIELD will continue your monitoring, but starting from tomorrow, you are allowed to roam outside the Gamma Compound. Considering Reptyl and Armageddon attacked your house, your presence here is reasonable."
 * Elloe Kaifi: "They're still watching us, aren't they?"
 * Captain America: "(Turns his eyes to another direction, where a small SHIELD drone is apparently hiding) You can say that."

At a secret SHIELD base, GW Bridge was seen smiling at the Captain, who smirked at the camera.


 * Skaar: "Hmph. They still don't trust us."
 * Captain America: "If you don't wreck cities as frequent as you beat up supervillains, they'll be fine with you."
 * Skaar: "Destruction has always been a part of our action, Captain."
 * Captain America: "I understand, Skaar. I know the Hulk's relation with the public isn't the most cordial, but all that matters is that you're fighting for the side of good. It doesn't matter what anyone says, Skaar. A hero is a hero, regardless of the intention."
 * Skaar: "Heh, so you said. That why you let the Punisher in the Avengers?"
 * Elloe Kaifi: "Skaar..."
 * Captain America: "That was not my decision, but if the Thunderbolts could be true heroes, then so could the Punisher. You are a true hero, Skaar. I'm counting on you, your father... the Warbound. We need all hands on deck to defend this world."
 * Korg: "I trust you have thoroughly decided to induct Hiroim into the Avengers, yes?"
 * Captain America: "Korg, I promise you. Hiroim will be safe. I am responsible for the safety of my team, and I don't intend to get any of ourselves killed."
 * Korg: "I believe you, Captain. I believe."
 * Hulk: "So, you've given Hiroim the Identicard yet?"
 * Captain America: "In a moment. Hiroim, Banner told you yet?"
 * Hiroim: "He has, Captain. I am willing to fight alongside the Avengers, no matter who they are."
 * Captain America: "Good to know, Hiroim. Welcome to the Avengers."

Steve gave Hiroim his Identicard before turning his attention towards the two villains, who were still bickering all this time.


 * Captain America: "I can't believe they're actually arguing without a care."
 * Hulk: "Not every day you get pea-brained cosmic warlords."
 * Elloe Kaifi: "I assume it's time for us to attack them?"
 * Hiroim: "At once, Elloe."

We return to the villains' perspective.


 * Armageddon: "And that's why I am smarter!"
 * Reptyl: "Do you have any idea where Breakworld is, Chedon? Even I don't know where it is!"
 * Armageddon: "Exactly! Once I return, I will discover its whereabouts and commission their planet-sized planet-breaking bullets!"
 * Reptyl: "Stupid dog! You do not know of the Timeshadows in their planet! They will know of your coming and blast your entire armada with the weapons you crave so much!"
 * Armageddon: "You assume I shall subjugate them, but I will not!"
 * Reptyl: "Why not? You are a conqueror, that's your job!"
 * Armageddon: "Same reason why you don't want to pillage that backwater world!"
 * Reptyl: "Oh, now you're calling Breakworld backwater even though they have the tech of your dreams? No wonder you people don't rule the galaxy anymore!"
 * Armageddon: "Blame it on Galactus! If he hadn't eaten those pasture planets, we would've conquered the Shi'ar!"
 * Reptyl: "(Unintelligible curse) you! I'm pretty sure the universe had a reason of sending Galactus to eat your silly-(unintelligible vulgarity) farms!"
 * Armageddon: "What? So the Troyjan Empire can never be a dominant power and be a threat to the universe?"

A brief silence ensued when a cosmic revelation came to the duo and the heroes. Both Reptyl's and Armageddon's eyes widen in the same realization.


 * Armageddon: "Impossible! The universe conspires against me?!"
 * Reptyl: "Ha! You're so hated the One Above All sent Galactus to bust out your (unintelligible vulgarity)."
 * Armageddon: "No! I was so strong... that even He had to send Galactus to weaken me! HA! I was all-powerful!"
 * Reptyl: "Blasphemy!"
 * Armageddon: "You don't even worship a god!"
 * Reptyl: "Nevertheless, divine retribution will come upon you, soon! My cosmic senses are true!"
 * Armageddon: "What about you, you clumsy foul-up? You're no better than me! You're worse in every category imaginable!"
 * Reptyl: "You dare invoke that scum's name?! I will rip your bowels apart!"
 * Armageddon: "I will disperse your ashes into supernovas, you Skrull-lover!"
 * Reptyl: "At least I get to see her again and gift back the cosmic present I received to the universe!"
 * Hulk: "Ahem."

Their pointless fight was immediately stopped when the Savage Hulk knocked both of them out with just a few punches, knocking them out.


 * Captain America: "Thank you, Hulk. I'll contact SWORD to handle these two. Oh, and Elloe, your sword."
 * Elloe Kaifi: "Much appreciated, Captain."

Back to the Avengers Tower...

Stark did so and tapped on the icon of Cap's next Avenger: Warlock the Technarch. Iron Man tapped on the icon of Cap's last recruit, who was undoubtedly the most controversial of every new Avenger recruit there was: Zora Vukovic, AKA Victorious. On-screen, footages of her fighting the Fantastic Four and photographs of her public appearances alongside Doctor Doom can be seen. In a series of pictures marked by SHIELD as CLASSIFIED, Vukovic can be seen with barely any clothes and strapped on to a table with many tubes and square-like devices around her body, all while a cybernetic woman oversees her Power Cosmic-granting process. The scene goes back to the further past, now to a holding facility in the Raft that houses Victorious in a highly-secure cell.
 * Thor: "So the Warbound are free now?"
 * Captain America: "They've been doing their action for... let's just say a while, now. Last I heard, they helped Alpha Flight with a Wendigo infestation up north."
 * Iron Man: "Steve, do you mind letting us know who's on your payroll? You press-ganged Balder into the team, had an Eternal fill in the job of a Ghost Rider, and unleashed the Warbound while you were making SHIELD your minions. I'm starting to think you have the gift of gab."
 * Hank Pym: "It's easier to listen to a guy who knows what he's doing, Stark."
 * Captain America: "There's no telling when the Eternals must recall Ajak to Polaria. When it happens, there's no doubt that he's needed for a greater purpose. The Warbound are to be returned to detention if they wreak too much collateral damage. All of this, and SHIELD still has to monitor my team, as well."
 * Iron Man: "Yup, I called it. They don't trust you."
 * Captain America: "Tony, if one of my team kills me or the majority of the group gets mind-controlled, they'll know and they can help with..."
 * Iron Man: "Wait a minute, what? Steve, are you serious? I didn't mean that!."
 * Captain America: "The Avengers are technically separate from SHIELD, but not all of us are. I'm a Level Seven Special Operative and your liaison to SHIELD. I must admit, this team... they're wildcards. I trust them, but SHIELD doesn't. That's why they need my surveillance and report."
 * Hank Pym: "So no hidden drones spying on your folks?"
 * Captain America: "I am the 'drone', so to speak."
 * Thor: "And what if you are dead, indeed? Who will inform SHIELD of this? They cannot hope to know your death when you're in outer space."
 * Captain America: "The team will bring my corpse back to Earth and bury it. As for their status as Avengers, I grant the three of you the rights to decide upon such matters. SHIELD assists us, but we're the ones making decisions here."
 * Iron Man: "What if we decided to disband your team?"
 * Captain America: "Then I trust you have a good reason for that."
 * Thor: "You can count on us, Captain. Trust will have to be built in your team, but we believe in you."
 * Hank Pym: "Here's wishing the team doesn't implode in the first mission."
 * Captain America: "(Chuckles) We'll be fine. Now, Stark, you may continue the member analysis."
 * Iron Man: "Oh boy, now here's a face you can smile at for hours. Isn't he X-Men, though?"
 * Thor: "I did not know that non-Mutants can join the X-Men."
 * Hank Pym: "They have a ton of people inside. Everyone's just so strange that you can't tell who's a Mutant and who's not a Mutant. Warlock could just be a kid with a particularly bizarre X-Gene, but he's apparently an alien. How could he get into the X-Men, anyway?"
 * Iron Man: "Let me see... (Iron Man accesses the database info of Warlock) so he was made by the High-Evolutionary..."
 * Thor: "That would be Adam Warlock."
 * Iron Man: "Oh, sorry. Wait a moment... right, there it is. He said that he's considered — I repeat, considered — a Mutant in his homeworld, Kvch, because he knows compassion. Wow. Makes you wonder what makes someone a Mutant in other places, huh?"
 * Thor: "The Technarchy have no homeworld to speak of. 'Kvch' is their word for 'node', and these 'nodes' usually assume the form of planets."
 * Hank Pym: "Well, the more you know. I gotta point out something though. Wasn't he the one who triggered the whole Transmode Outbreak those years ago?"
 * Thor: "That was his father. Even then, Magus didn't seem to remember doing such a deed while his son only remembered seeing darkness while the ordeal happened."
 * Iron Man: "Eh, whatever the case, we don't need to worry about another Transmode Outbreak. We have Warlock."
 * Hank Pym: "Okay, so he's a Technarch... what can he do again?"
 * Iron Man: "Lots and lots of stuffs. He can practically be as strong as he needs to be and transform his body to a bunch of meticulous objects. You want him to hack stuffs? He can do that. You want him to be a water pump? Sure, why not? You want him to make a cure for cancer? Well, given time... yeah."
 * Hank Pym: "I'm pretty sure a lot of governments would go wild if he really did that..."
 * Captain America: "You sure he wouldn't turn other people into Technarchs by injecting his own stuff?"
 * Iron Man: "Uh... no? Eh, whatever. Blame it on my optimism for this guy, but I trust his recruitment went well?"
 * Captain America: "He was quite happy at the invitation, actually. He literally screamed out the entire news to the X-Men."
 * Hank Pym: "Sounds uplifting. Thing is, how did Xavier react to that? He wouldn't want one of his students to... ohhhhh right..."
 * Iron Man: "What is it?"
 * Hank Pym: "Logan, Nightcrawler, and Kitty Pryde's part of the Avengers Wave, too."
 * Iron Man: "Ah. Say no more, Pym."
 * Thor: "Warlock... he is young and full of potential. Yet even you must be wary of one so powerful, Steve. Even the strongest of allies can be the strongest of enemies."
 * Captain America: "I understand, Thor. In case one of us goes rogue... remember, there's a reason why we have the Wave."
 * Hank Pym: "Understandable. He's a pass."
 * Thor: "Agree."
 * Iron Man: "Gotcha. Now... for the biggest news piece of all time..."
 * Iron Man: "That is more disturbing than I thought."
 * Thor: "She is a true patriot of Latveria. She'll go through Hel and back to save it."
 * Hank Pym: "Exactly like Doom."
 * Captain America: "Her loyalty was not to Doom, but to Latveria. She never has anything on Doom."
 * Hank Pym: "Yeah. If your team is supposed to stop a monster attack in Latveria, she'll betray you 'for the good of her home'. She'll capture you so that Doom can save the day for Latveria. Tch."
 * Captain America: "Hank, she's different now. She's no longer..."
 * Hank Pym: "No longer? Oh, so while she was in the Raft, she's still a Latverian nationalist who worships Doom every night she sleeps?"
 * Thor: "I suggest you cease your babbling, Dr. Pym. Now, Captain, I believe you have done something to... 'alleviate' her mental conditioning in the Raft?"
 * Captain America: "We talked, Thor. It was rather unfortunate I could not speak to her alone."
 * Iron Man: "Let me guess, Doom was there too?"
 * Captain America: "No. There was another Latverian. But one I assume is much more trustworthy than his father."
 * Thor: "You speak of Kristoff Vernard, the Son of Doom."
 * Hank Pym: "Don't let the face fool you, Cap. He ain't Doom's biological son, but he's still an errand boy nevertheless. There's no way would he depart Latveria for the sake of himself."
 * Captain America: "You are correct, Hank."
 * Hank Pym: "Wait, what?"
 * Iron Man: "For real, Captain? He was there on Doom's behalf?"
 * Captain America: "Yes. Listen, I don't trust Doom at all, but there's still some good in there, or at least a sense of logic and rationality that belies his egomania. Latveria is home to Earth's most dangerous dictator, but not everything that comes from it is bad."
 * Hank Pym: "How do we know Kristoff didn't brainwash you, Captain?"
 * Captain America: "Would he?"
 * Iron Man: "Hank, my armor is equipped with brain sensors and lie detectors. If something's off with him, I'll know. Now please, sit back and hear him. Speak up, Captain. Let's listen to what you have to say."
 * Thor: "Captain, before you do so, I must let you know that we still trust you."
 * Captain America: "It's alright, Thor. I know what must be done."
 * Hank Pym: "(Sighs) Sorry, Cap. Now, please elaborate on your... 'interview' of Victorious' secret a while back."
 * Iron Man: "Hank, can you stop instilling arousing imaginations in my head?"
 * Hank Pym: "She's not even that..."
 * Thor: "Enough! Let us listen to the Captain."

The Raft. Home to some of the worst supervillains Earth could offer. There were plenty of prisons or places of detention and rehabilitation for ill-willed individuals with gifts, but the Raft may just take the cake for housing the most notorious enhanced criminals there are on Earth. They didn't have the strongest villains inside, but they had the most infamous ne'er-do-wells in the world. Especially the Big Apple kind since it's close in proximity.

Deep in the prison's bowels, Zora Vukovic, the former Herald of Doom, sat down in her cell all curled up in fear and disappointment. In her prison apparel, she reflected of the prior events in her life leading up to this moment. For her home, she volunteered to be imbued with the Power Cosmic in an experiment performed by Doom himself. In turn, she agreed to become his champion. Doom was Latveria, and she wanted to become a champion of Latveria. She knew how the outside world viewed her ruler, but in the eyes of every Latverian, he's both a national hero and a messianic figure who came to restore their lives from all the greedy dictators from Latveria's long history. Victorious was no exception to this.

Doom was the only solution to Latveria's many problems, and in turn, the people were 'encouraged' to support him. He waged war against many American 'invaders'. The Fantastic Four, for instance, had many 'adventures' in Latveria 'for the good of the universe'. They stopped Lord Doom's 'schemes' to improve the lives of five hundred thousand Latverians and caused much collateral damage. To think they knew best for Latveria and could come barging in with the reason of 'goodness'. Such was what Victorious reflected upon.

She remembered the celebration of her sixteenth birthday. Her beloved family was there. All of them. When she blew off the cake's candles, a hellstorm of fire suddenly came crashing through her house. Her loved ones... they were all incinerated within seconds. Her mother tried to protect her, but she was reduced to cinders just like the rest of her family. Her sacrifice allowed little Zora to live, however, but she was not safe from pain. The wooden house came crashing on her head, knocking her unconscious with her wounds exposed. Before blacking out, however, she heard a man giggling outside. A man whose accent was undoubtedly came from the west. A carefree man whose body burnt as bright as his murderous spirit.

"Flame on".

Vukovic's traumatic recollection stopped the moment Steve Rogers walked into the room, his footsteps prompting her alertness and eye contact. Upon seeing who he was, Zora glanced aside and avoided eye contact with him.

Steve walked closer to Zora's cell. Steve raised an eyebrow at this statement and he was taken aback. Zora's eyes widened in surprise as she turned to face Steve, memories of her family's death flashing back. Zora reflected once again as she re-contextualized her memories. Her heart's grief was replaced by something akin to concern, and soon, peace. She had to ask him something else, however.
 * Steve Rogers: "Everything alright, Zora?"
 * Zora Vukovic: "I'm fine. I'm fine."
 * Steve Rogers: "You seem troubled."
 * Zora Vukovic: "I was just... reflecting."
 * Steve Rogers: "Alright then. I won't make that a matter of our discussion. Has anyone visited you?"
 * Zora Vukovic: "No."
 * Steve Rogers: "Have you been fed well?"
 * Zora Vukovic: "I ate what was provided. I am well."
 * Steve Rogers: "Got trouble sleeping?"
 * Zora Vukovic: "You are the source of my nightmares."
 * Zora Vukovic: "I... I'm still unsure about the whole Avengers thing, Captain. I... I know you're a good person and all, but... Doom wouldn't approve of this. He won't let me be... your lap dog."
 * Steve Rogers: "Did Doom tell you that, or is that just an assumption, Zora? 'Cause I can assure you, no one will treat you low. No one."
 * Zora Vukovic: "When I came to him, I gave him my word to be Latveria's champion..."
 * Steve Rogers: "... and not Doom's. I'm not going to intrude on your beliefs, but Doom is not Latveria. Latveria is a state that has gone through many upheavals and challenges throughout the years. Even with the rise and fall of many dictators and tyrants alike, your people have survived through the worst. Doom is the greatest man to have ever ruled Latveria, but he's not the embodiment of the entire nation. Just as I am not the embodiment of this entire nation."
 * Zora Vukovic: "You represent the best of the American people. You are the representation of what the American dream means."
 * Steve Rogers: "Yet I've been imprisoned and replaced many times by my own government. I've been betrayed by my own people and disowned by the very nation I fought for. Even with all that, I fight on so the people may continue their peaceful lives. The United States and Latveria are distinct entities, but I believe you are to the latter what I am to the former. You are what the Black Panther is to Wakanda; what the Winter Guard is to Russia; what the Alpha Flight is to Canada."
 * Zora Vukovic: "So you think I can symbolize the best qualities of Latveria? All while everyone has already cursed my name?"
 * Steve Rogers: "There is no weight in the words of slanderers, Zora. You are not Doom or his puppet like what everyone said. You're Zora Vukovic. You are Victorious. You are the defender of Latveria; its national folk hero. You showed people that anyone can be a hero regardless of origins. A hero to your people, yes, even if your first task was to fight the Fantastic Four. Things such as grudges don't last forever. I talked to the Fantastic Four before coming here."
 * Zora Vukovic: "They object to my presence, like everyone else."
 * Steve Rogers: "No. They support you, Zora. Reed said that your powers can be used for good and it doesn't matter if you're Doom's former protege. Ben said that you're good at clobbering and Sue wholly believed in your heart's true content. Johnny... he said he's sorry."
 * Steve Rogers: "The Fantastic Four was there to stop Doom from opening a portal to Hell, Zora. He believed that he could restore the soul of his mother through a portal of his own creation. It was far from stable and it eventually imploded. After the implosion... demons came through and everyone had to team-up to banish them back to the abyss. Johnny succeeded in doing so himself, but he had to unleash his full power to destroy the demons. Afterwards, he went into a coma for a week. He nearly died saving Latveria, but he still admitted to being accountable of the lives lost in his effort. Including your family's."
 * Zora Vukovic: "I... I heard him laugh! I was celebrating my birthday! How...?"
 * Steve Rogers: "You lived in a nation whose ruler practices occultism and wage shadow wars. Plus there were literal demons in your nation. The Four came covertly, and their battle was done in secret until Doom's portal blew up."
 * Zora Vukovic: "I see. Yet you still wish me to be a hero? Despite my...?"
 * Steve Rogers: "You are a hero, Zora. I don't believe you are the type of person to be a selfish criminal with petty pursuits. I know you are beyond such meager acts. With the Avengers, your powers can be utilized for good. We may reside in the United States, but we are independent of the government. We are free, and we use our freedom responsibly to help others in need. To protect this planet from all who would threaten it. We need all hands on deck to do so. Even those once classified as 'villains'."
 * Zora Vukovic: "I heard I wasn't even eligible for the Thunderbolts program, Captain. Warden Walker said so."
 * Steve Rogers: "But you are eligible for the Avengers, if you haven't noticed."
 * ???: "That is true, and if you haven't noticed, you've got company."

In instinct, Steve turned around and prepared to strike at this unnerving intruder. Zora immediately backed to the corner and curled up again, yet her head still swivelled to see who's coming. Moments later, the 'intruder' emerged from the shadows in royal Latverian garbs and a distinct Eastern European face, having a similar build to Victorious. It was Kristoff Vernard, the adopted son of Doctor Doom.


 * Zora Vukovic: "It's... it's..."


 * Steve Rogers: "I know, Zora. I know."


 * Kristoff Vernard: "Good afternoon, Captain Rogers. Szia, Hölgy Vukovic."


 * Zora Vukovic: "Szia, Herceg Vernard."


 * Steve Rogers: "What do you want, Kristoff? How did you get here?"


 * Kristoff Vernard: "For a maximum security prison for superhumans, this facility seems to lack any form of protection against teleportation. In all seriousness, I didn't come here to gloat or enact some complex, grandiose scheme to sate my ego."


 * Steve Rogers: "Why then, Kristoff? Why are you here?"


 * Kristoff Vernard: "I simply bring word from my father concerning the Avengers Wave. First of all, you're a brave man, Captain. Father was truly awestruck when he heard of the news. He didn't think you'd have the guts to eye the nation's champion, but you have. He admires it, and he regrets underestimating your spirit."


 * Steve Rogers: "Does he have any objections about my pick?"


 * Kristoff Vernard: "No. In fact, he has given you his blessing to recruit Mrs. Vukovic. I was sent here to let you know, Captain. Despite the apparent enmity between the United States and Latveria... or my father, to be more precise, he appreciates your choice and wishes her to be a boon to the team. He expects Victorious to perform as best as she can and show that Latveria is not home to villains. Frankly, it's becoming more and more insulting for the world to see us as a 'rogue state', so my father sees it fit to allow her in your team."


 * Zora Vukovic: "(In Magyar) Does he disown me, Prince Vernard? Does he not see me fit to become Latveria's champion?"


 * Kristoff Vernard: "(In the same language) He does not, my dear. In fact, he is proud of you. He wishes you to prosper in your new career and allows you entry to Latveria whenever you want to. He expects you to not abandon your post when the nation needs you, on the other hand. He expects you to be ready when your nation needs you."


 * Zora Vukovic: "I understand. I will not disappoint... I will not fail."


 * Steve Rogers: "The Avengers will be with her when Latveria requires her presence, Kristoff."


 * Kristoff Vernard: "All the languages in your head and I didn't know you recognize Magyar. You truly are full of surprises. In terms of such, I should tell you that your Avengers are cleared to operate on Latverian soil provided the Fantastic Four are not in your company. Should they come anyway, father will deal with them all the same."


 * Steve Rogers: "Acknowledged. Seems like your father has admitted that he can't do everything alone."


 * Kristoff Vernard: "Please, Captain. We are humans. No matter how much power we hold, we are social creatures. We cannot live by ourselves or do things effectively alone."


 * Steve Rogers: "Your father seems to be doing well governing Latveria alone."


 * Kristoff Vernard: "Oh, believe me, Captain, he's not running the show by himself. That does not concern you, however, and we are supposed to talk about Victorious' induction to the Avengers. When will she be released, if I may know?"


 * Steve Rogers: "By next week, she'll have received her Identicard and a flat to live in. That is all you need to know."


 * Kristoff Vernard: "Wonderful! Thank you for your hospitality, my friend. I look forward to seeing Ms. Vukovic in action. Now, if you excuse me, it's time for me to return home. May the face of Doom inspire you to devotedly implement his policies until the end, Captain Rogers. Te is, Zora."
 * Zora Vukovic: "Búcsú, hercegem."


 * Steve Rogers: "... farewell, Kristoff."

With that, Kristoff walked back into the shadows where he first teleported from. Steve continued his conversation with Zora.


 * Steve Rogers: "I assume what he said was some form of 'goodbye'?"


 * Zora Vukovic: "That's how we say it in Latveria."


 * Steve Rogers: "For the most part, we won't be in Latveria. Until we are in your home, use goodbye, instead."


 * Zora Vukovic: "Yes, Captain. T–thank you."


 * Steve Rogers: "When you're in the team, you don't have to worry about anything. We have each other and we'll watch each other's backs. We fight together as one and nothing will stop us. For everything we hold dear, we fight. For the existence of this world, we fight. For all that is good, we fight. We're never gonna stop fighting until our bones are ground to dust and our corpses are reduced to ashes. Until then, surrender is a word that means nothing to us."


 * Zora Vukovic: "I agree. Oh, I have to ask you. You mentioned that I will be getting a new flat... I assume I will be living near another 'hero'?"


 * Steve Rogers: "You'll see. Don't worry, Zora. She won't bother you."


 * Zora Vukovic: "But 'she' will keep an eye out on me, yes?"


 * Steve Rogers: "She won't barge in your room at midnight to see if you're asleep or not. That's what I'll tell you."


 * Zora Vukovic: "Do I get paid as an Avenger?"

For a moment, Steve was wordless and couldn't answer her. For once, he never remembered getting paid in his career as a hero, Avenger or not. The love of money is the root of all evil and so, a hero must do their part for good without succumbing to the allure of cash and credits. The man he was, Steve answered the best way he could.


 * Steve Rogers: "No, I don't think so."


 * Zora Vukovic: "I mean, it wouldn't be a problem for me since I am imbued with the Power Cosmic, so I don't need to purchase food, drinks, and all."


 * Steve Rogers: "Well, most of us don't really require sustenance, that's true..."


 * Zora Vukovic: "(Slightly smiles) You really don't know, huh?"


 * Steve Rogers: "I get paid as a SHIELD agent. Other than that, I don't recall getting paid as an Avenger. If you're asking where do we get all our stuffs from, Stark does most of the inventions and funding along with Dr. Pym."


 * Zora Vukovic: "That's interesting. Now, uh... when will you leave?"


 * Steve Rogers: "Excuse me?"


 * Zora Vukovic: "I'm sorry, I just... don't know how to say it. You still have time to... go out there and, I don't know, defeat more criminals?"


 * Steve Rogers: "I've dedicated this past week to speak with my recruits, Vukovic. You're the last one on the list, and I suppose the only thing I need to do now is to receive the clearance for our Avengers to assemble. As for your question, I have to ask you back: are you okay with staying in that cell for a little longer?"


 * Zora Vukovic: "I'll be free from this place eventually. I'm happy with that."


 * Steve Rogers: "Glad to hear that."

After saying that, a loud siren suddenly blared throughout the Raft, followed by blinking red lights on the ceiling. Soon, screams of prison guardsmen were heard as well as the distinct Russian voice of the Rhino.


 * Zora Vukovic: "I'm not getting out of this cell. I promise."


 * Steve Rogers: "I trust you, Victorious. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to stop the inmates from breaking out of the prison. Thank you."


 * Zora Vukovic: "You're welcome... Captain Rogers."

Back to the Avengers Tower...


 * Hank Pym: "Great, Doom has blessed us with his dark magic so Zora can get into the team. Wow."


 * Captain America: "All we need to know is that Doom has given us his approval. None of us trusts Doom, but seeing that he's a monarch of a nation with a superpowered operative, it's quite assuring to know that we have his support."


 * Hank Pym: "Yeah, but what if your team has to fight against Doom?"


 * Thor: "No doubt Victorious' heart will be torn if such predicament occurs."


 * Captain America: "I hope there is a good reason for that confrontation to happen, Pym. Something tells me she's going to stay out of the fight and focus on the safety of her fellow citizens."


 * Iron Man: "That's... actually not impossible. Well, I'm now convinced to give her a pass, Captain. What about you two? What do you say?"


 * Hank Pym: "She's fine by me."


 * Thor: "Aye."

The Avengers paused for a moment to ponder upon the implication Stark brought up. Steve's expression was priceless as he didn't think through that the first time.
 * Iron Man: "Awesome. Okay, now... I wonder. She's powered by the Power Cosmic, right? Knowing that, does her presence attract Galactus' attention?"
 * Hank Pym: "If that was true, we would have been visited by Big Mac himself when she was given the Power Cosmic."


 * Iron Man: "So she doesn't really possess the same Power Cosmic as the Heralds of Galactus, huh? Interesting. As long as it works."

After finishing the analysis, Cap finally got the clearance for his team's operation as the icons of his recruits all turned blue, verifying their status as Avengers. Well, honorary Avengers for the moment. They'll get their affirmations as true Avengers after they've proven themselves in action. With the discussion wrapped up, the Avengers stood up, starting from Tony.


 * Iron Man: "(Stands up) Well, I guess that's all for today. You goin' somewhere else after this, Cap? Or are you going to meet up with your recruits again?"

The others follow suit, rising from their seats.


 * Captain America: "I'm going back to Sharon's place. Wouldn't want to miss the dinner tonight."


 * Iron Man: "Heh. Figures."


 * Thor: "Good. So we confer with the rest of your team two weeks later in Camp Hammond?"


 * Captain America: "That's right. Let's just say there's going to be a small... inauguration ceremony there. It's not a lot, I promise."


 * Hank Pym: "It's fine. As long as we get free drinks (chuckles)."


 * Iron Man: "When must we arrive?"


 * Captain America: "5.30 PM. The recruits will be there at five."


 * Iron Man: "Alright then. Good to know. Thanks for your time, Cap. Hope you have an enjoyable evening with Sharon."


 * Captain America: "(Smirks) Thank you, Tony."

The team exchanged hand shakes with each other and soon departed from the Avengers Tower in their own ways of transportation. Captain Rogers himself walked out of the building after a short scene of him changing his clothes, making his way to Sharon Carter's apartment for the dinner he mentioned earlier.

One Week Ago
TBA