"When I went under, the world was at war. I wake up, they say we

[Closed RP for Steve Rogers with SHARP. Group Link below. I am not Steve Rogers or Chris Evans nor are any gifs or comic book images mine.]

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[iminthearmynow-blog]

deadliestwomaninthewholegalaxy:

Gamora had to admit to herself that it was nice to know that there was someone else that she could relate to, someone who was in a different world than they had ever expected. She smiled at his reassurance, it was important that she remembered those far away memories even if they had been influenced by time passing. Those were the memories that she had to cling to from her child, the clearer ones were tainted and painful.

She looked over at Steve, understanding the want and need to find some reason to stay on the path. “I am glad that we can share these feelings, although sad having someone to understand yourself can make all the difference.” Gamora often thought about what would have happened if she did not meet Peter and the others, she was trying to get off the path shown to her by Thanos, but they had given her the strength to do so. If they had not been there she might have gone back to that path, even if she kept trying to do better.

“I can understand that, stepping into the past is not always a good thing for those that have been there. That is kind of amazing that you knew her grandfather, even in such a big city you can know about people who were here over 60 years ago.” If she could go back to her birth planet she did not know if she would welcome that, it would be stepping into the unknown.

Steve cast her a sad smile. Too often few understood what it meant to be so out of time and away from all they ever knew. “It’s tough isn’t it? Wanting others to understand, but not wishing the experience on anyone else? You’ve done well, Gamora. And I mean that in the purest of motives. What you’ve experienced in your life is so very different from what any of us have, that not one of our current members would be able to understand what you’ve lived. I know our circumstances are still vastly different, but if you need a person to talk with, I’m available.”

He let his mind wander once again to what his life might have been had he not gotten frozen in ice. He wondered if he and Peggy would have dated, gotten married. Would the government have even let him have that privilege. After all, in many ways he was the property of the United States Government. Steve Rogers was just the host for the serum. 

He pulled his thoughts from that with a shake of his head. “Big as the city is, and much as many people continue to move in, a lot of families can trace their roots back to within a few blocks. Your very history might be tied to a building. So, I guess it’s not very amazing to me. New York becomes a part of your blood.” He offered a weak smile. “It defines you.”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[iminthearmynow-blog]

carolthemarvelous:

Carol didn’t bother to suppress the snort of laughter at his continued protests. “Deflect all you like, but that serum didn’t create something from nothing. It had to have something to work with, and that was all you. Is all you. Serum or not, you’re damned impressive, Rogers.” She grinned widely at him. “I’d say I’m the same way, but I guess I was already a badass before the Psyche-Magnitron incident. It was the icing on the cake.”

She eyed her compatriot as he took in the view, clearly quite moved. “It’s something else. If you’d told me I’d be living here one day, I’d’ve laughed you out of the city. Hell of a set of circumstances that led me here. Rent is killer, though.”

After grabbing the glass of water for Steve and a beer for herself, Carol took a moment to snag a jar of salsa and bag of chips as well. She shot her guest a smile as she re-entered the seating area bearing the goodies. “You’re more than welcome, Steve. My door is always open.” She paused a beat, then laughed. “Well, metaphorically anyway. I’ll let security know to add Captain America to the permitted list. The statue is closed to the public these days, so they’re a little bit stingy with letting people in. Perks of being my friend, I guess.”

He merely dipped his head in a nod at her comments, but left it alone. He didn’t think he’d be half as impressive as the scrawny kid from Brooklyn, but supposed it was all in how one would look at it. He, of course, would find his faults, while others would see his strengths. He let out a laugh at her admission of herself. “From what I understand, Danvers. You couldn’t be more accurate. Plus, I’m fairly confident, powered or otherwise, you’d still have a good punch.”

Steve let out a quiet chuckle at her comment on the rent. What he wouldn’t give to live here. “It’s quite the place. Certainly a far cry from what it looked like the last time I was in here. Clearly I should have asked them to move me into Lady Liberty when they turned me into the War-Bond Office’s poster-boy.”

He nodded, taking a seat on the couch and deliberately looking away from the city. He’d get too distracted otherwise. “You might regret that offer. Now that I can climb those stairs, I might just visit you often enough you’ll tell security to ban me.” He offered a weak smile. “Still, heck of a view.”

[carolthemarvelous]

There’s a Glass on the Table || OPEN

[iminthearmynow-blog]

carolthemarvelous:

Carol skidded to a stop, pivoting to face Steve. She could feel the irritation showing through on her face, and it rang clear in her voice when she spoke. “I know you’re not trying to get me to go back to work, Steve. I’m just being practical, here. If I’m not gonna hold down the barstool I was on, I might as well go take some weight off my desk.” She cut herself off, breaking eye contact to look at the ground for a moment, collecting herself with a few breaths. When she looked back up, the irritation had been firmly tamped down, and she looked much calmer. “Steve, seriously. I’m fine. I know my limits, and I’m not there yet.” Frustratingly, a lot of what Steve was saying made sense. Dammit. “If it’ll shut you up, I’ll start trying to delegate more. You can even take some of it, if you want to.”

The urge to hit something was steadily growing alongside her frustration with the situation. Maybe she should take up his offer for a sparring session. She cocked her head, giving him the first genuine smile she’d had all evening, small though it was. “On second thought, maybe we’ll do the ice cream to-go. If I’m not allowed to do paperwork either, sparring might be a good outlet.”

Steve stopped short as she turned to face him. Listening to her response he knew better than to comment until she was calmer. Of the many people Steve squared up against in the past, Danvers packed a punch in the way few others did. He watched her quietly, waiting for her to collect herself and stayed that way until she finished. “I’m not saying you don’t know your limits. People who know their limits can still cross them if the stress gets to be too much. That is my concern. And yes, I want to take some of the paperwork. Because, if nothing else, it’ll give you more time to relax and just fly.”

The smile was reassuring, he’d said something right at one point. A rare feat for him, at least that’s what he told himself. “The establishment isn’t too far away at this point, we’ll get there in less than five. Any place in particular you’d like to beat me up. I know that’s your end goal now that I’ve spoiled your evening.” How much he’d be hurting in the morning was the real question now.

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[iminthearmynow-blog]

morphinemechanic:

Aeron listened, taking up  the fresh glass of whiskey as she did, clearing it before he even finished. Sam struck a cord with her, making Aeron exhale forcefully. The Avenger wasn’t far from her mind, how could he? Sam had rescued her in more ways than one. He was the only one in a long time who believed that Aeron had the capacity to be more. Her steps to becoming a hero were thanks to him. Though truthfully the last time she did thought upon Sam, she had almost taken off Tony’s head after a press conference.

“Sam.” She nodded as if to find the right words. “Good guy. I miss him.” She raised her hand silently signalling for her last drink. “I imagine that most people think it’s easy to be a hero.” She glanced over to Steve, sporting an honest smile than the ones she had been giving him prior. “Super powers, super life…” The waitress had come again, placing down a bottle of beer and Aeron nodded her thanks. 

“It’s shit sometimes right? When all is said and done it’s just….just shitty to be a hero. Do you think now, after you know everything that’s happened so far…would you still be a hero?”

@iminthearmynow​

Something struck a chord, at least, that’s what her exhale told him. What exactly he had said that caused that he wasn’t sure, though he had a hunch his mention of Sam had something to do with that. It was how most people responded to the former Avenger’s name. Former… that still didn’t sit well with Steve. Too many unanswered questions, surrounding Sam’s death put the near centenarian ill at ease. Though, he wasn’t sure how easy it would be to discover the truth. 

Another drink? How many is she going to have? He nodded along with her as she mused aloud. Easy being a hero? Hardly. He had to agree with her there. He appreciated her honest smile, but he was still unsure of her. A lot could have changed between that night in the alley when he first met her and now, but at least in that instance, he would be very concerned unless he knew she was being trained. Still be a hero? After everything?

“A hero protects, looks out for those who need help, defends people against things much bigger than them. I’ve never wanted to be a hero, but I have always wanted to protect. I have an issue with bullies…” he trailed off, remembering Dr. Erskine asking him to not let the serum change who he was. “If you’re really asking if I would become Captain America by taking the super soldier serum, knowing everything I know up to today, then yes. Erskine’s formula allowed me to do what I always wanted to. Stand up for the little guy and protect the people I care about.” He smiled weakly. “I’m not sure I would have been able to do all that as the scrawny kid from Brooklyn. And I’m pretty sure I would have been dead by now. I wasn’t the healthiest of kids.”

[morphinemechanic-blog]

The bottle stop short of her mouth when he trailed off. Seems as if he had a big problem with bullies. Though to Aeron someone who sported the good ol’ red,white,and blue probably sticks up for the little guy on the regular. As he continue she then placed the bottle to her lips and drank deep, killing it off in one swig. “Nor last as long.” She added to his final statement. “I don’t know many who pull off your age, like you do.”

Aeron could feel the heat erupting from her belly, tinging her cheeks sanguine. As she brushed aside loose strands of her wild hair, tucking it neatly behind her ear.  Leaning back in her chair, she muttered a sobering thought, knowing it probably wouldn’t sit well with her companion. “I only want to protect mutants.” It had always been Aeron’s goal, even from a young age. Starting as an act of defiance; loving the rage that filled the scorned creased lines of her father’s face. It grew to define her, it gave her purpose, even on long cold nights on the street.  Even when Aeron had nothing but the clothes on her back, she did what she could.

“I don’t care if that makes me a bully or not a hero. They need someone, I can be strong enough.” With that Aeron fumbled a hand into her pocket fishing out a wallet, tossing the cash for her drinks down before getting up. “Well, it seems like I’ve painfully taken up enough of your time. Rogers.” She slurred with a grin, taking her first muddled steps to the door.

@iminthearmynow

[iminthearmynow-blog]

Steve wasn’t sure whether to be relieved or concerned when Aeron didn’t immediately flag down one of the staff to bring her a fresh bottle. On the one hand, it didn’t appear like she was going to have anymore, which was good, but on the other hand it meant she’d be getting ready to leave the bar. Steve wasn’t sure he was up for a round of keeping her from a fight. A sober Aeron was dangerous enough, but one slightly tipsy Aeron concerned Steve.

Her comment elicited a soft chuckle. He knew of only a few individuals who were his age or powered. He sobered with her next statement. It didn’t surprised him, but it didn’t comfort him either. “I’m sorry to hear that. While I agree that mutants need an extra hand in looking after them, especially after HOPE, you have to remember that being in the position of a hero encompasses all who need help. It may not be your primary goal, but you should still be available. Besides, I know of a lot of mutants who only wanted to protect mutants and were willing to kill anyone who got in the way of that goal. They generally aren’t the mutants you’d want to aspire to.”

Warning bells went off in his mind with her words. He’d have to make a mental note to speak to Dr. McCoy when he next had the chance regarding Aeron. She was going to land herself in trouble one of these days. As she stood, he watched her carefully, noting the slurred speech and uneasy steps. He closed his eyes for a brief moment trying not to imagine how comfortable his bed would feel in this moment and simply reopened his eyes, rose from his seat, and followed after, catching up moments later. “Why don’t I make sure you get home safely, without falling over and without getting attacked.” And without attacking anyone in your drunken state.

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[deadliestwomaninthewholegalaxy]

iminthearmynow:

Questions about space? Now there was a loaded offer. He wasn’t even sure where he’d begin if he asked. His eyes strayed above him a few times as they walked, watching stars and wondering what it must have been like to live up there. “Did you grow up on one planet or many?” Seriously, Rogers? That’s your first question? He tried to rationalize it with himself, but he still felt slightly embarrassed for reasons even he couldn’t have explained.

“The night life?” He pondered this, and gave a small chuckle. “Well, I didn’t do much in the 40s. I went from being a rather scrawny, sickly man to the military’s propaganda tool for the sale of war bonds. By the time I got back stateside i had been asleep for 70 years, so I never went to many clubs back then. My buddy Bucky did, though. Swing music and big bands were popular during that time. The few times I did go to the club, the music wasn’t as loud as it is now, though it certainly had a big sound. And swing music was the dance style of choice.” He shook his head, a weak smile on his face. “I never got to dance though, I just watched. Certainly a lot different than today.”

They had finally reached the park, it looked so much different during the night, there were some lights, but not too many. She could see some of the stars poking through the bright city lights, knowing that out there other planets would be going throughout their day. Gamora wished she could see more of those stars, and point out which had life rotating around them.

“I was born on  Zen-Whoberi, I barely remember it just small memories that have been remembered over and over and they no longer seem real. After that I lived on spaceships.” Thanos had encouraged them to think of no planet as home, none of those places were considered important. “This is the first planet I have really lived on since my birth planet.”

She listened carefully as he spoke, laughing as she tried to imagine him as scrawny, it was very difficult. She had heard swing music and it was very danceable, she knew that there were also some places that taught it. “Have you ever gone to the places now that teach swing dance?”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

Steve was never the most adept at reading others. It wasn’t for lack of trying, he just never quite got the grasp of it. But clueless as he was in most instances, even he could catch the trace of sadness in her words. His early home life had been rocky, sure, but it had been stable for the most part. He didn’t get the feeling things had been that way for her. He knew she was Thanos’ adopted daughter, but how she got to be under the alien’s guardianship, Steve still hadn’t learned. That would be a subject for another day, he wouldn’t bring it up. For all he knew, it was a painful subject.

He stared into the semi-darkness of the park, it was ill-lit, but he could make out the shapes of the trees and benches that dotted the landscape. “It happens like that sometimes, the memories that seemed the most real, becoming so elusive, you begin to wonder if they happened at all. My childhood seems so long ago now, I’ve thought the same thing you have.” He turned his head to her and offered a weak smile. “But if you know they’re real, don’t let your mind convince you otherwise.” He turned back to the path ahead, sobering slightly. “Sometimes those memories are the only things that hold people like you and me to the path we’re on.”

Steve shook his head, pulling himself from his previous musings. “No, not since I’ve been this side of the century. I know there’s one a couple blocks down from headquarters, I knew the grandfather of the girl who runs the place. She decorated the studio to look like you’re stepping back into the era. I guess that’s why I haven’t gone, Now that I’ve been in this time period, it would be strange to go back.”

[notthejollygreengiant-blog]

Sunday in the Park with Bruce || OPEN

[notthejollygreengiant-blog]

iminthearmynow:

Steve took a deep breath and slowly let it out. “Hoia Baciu, I found out afterwards that the locals call it the Bermuda Triangle of Romania. Strange things happen like that all time. And I’ve only told a handful of people because I don’t know enough about it myself.” He watched Bruce mentally piece things together. It’s what Steve liked most about the doctor, he was thorough in trying to solve any problem that came across his path. Then came the question that would invariably be asked. Steve hung his head a bit, pausing before answering. “… I don’t know. I couldn’t find my friend after I got out, no one knew where they went, I never found the girl to my knowledge. I just-… I don’t know. And I hate that I don’t know.” 

Steve pulled his hand back and took a few moments to really look at Bruce. Tired and worn out were the two major thoughts that came to mind. And Steve wasn’t sure Bruce was convinced by the centenarian’s words. Nor could Steve blame him for it. He hadn’t lived Bruce’s life, living on the run. In pieces maybe, but not even close to the number of years Bruce had to endure. “I appreciate your genuine apology, but it wasn’t necessary.” He needed to change the subject, this one wasn’t going to help Bruce any, he was sure of it. “So where are you staying?”

Bruce’s hands wandered through his hair as he processed Steve’s story. This wasn’t something he could help him with for now, but it was something he couldn’t leave alone, either. He’d have to do some research into this Hoia Baciu. As it was, all he could do for now was to pat his friend on the shoulder and give him his best attempt at an encouraging smile. “You did what you could, Steve. We’ll figure it out.” Or he’d do his best to, anyway. What was the point of being here if he wasn’t helping people who needed it?

He could feel Steve’s calculating look, and he felt tension seeping back into his shoulders despite himself. He knew Steve meant him no harm, the man had been straightforward with Bruce since he’d met him, but after five years of nonstop running, it was hard not to squirm under the scrutiny. Still, he waited through hit, letting Steve come to whatever conclusion he was looking for. Apparently, whatever it was caused him to shift the subject, for which Bruce was grateful. “Headquarters. Not much point renting somewhere else, I don’t need much more than a bed. Besides, that puts me close to the cells, if there’s… need.”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

“That’s just it, Bruce,” Steve sighed, his jaw tensing slightly. “I don’t know what I did or didn’t do. Do I know that I did my best? I could have been doing absolutely nothing, or doing terrible things, I just don’t know.” That’s what ate him, when he let his mind wander back to that mental block. What was he doing in that time. Did he hurt anyone? Steve wasn’t arrogant enough to believe himself to be the strongest person around, but he knew he could do decent enough damage. The hundreds of punching bags he’d busted through were proof of his abilities. Under normal circumstances, he wouldn’t cause harm unless it was warranted. But under circumstances where he was not in control of himself? That he didn’t know.

Steve nodded, trying to release his own tension. “Not the best lodgings, but far from the worst. When I first got back to town, I was in a flea infested motel. Tony let me stay in his penthouse when he found out I was back in the city.” He let his eyes roam elsewhere for a few moments. It had been tense, living with Tony. Which wasn’t without cause, just... hard. “After Sam died and I got Tony’s permission to take back the shield, I moved into headquarters to help train new recruits.” He looked back at Bruce. “Here’s hoping there’s never a need. We’ve already got a couple others who utilize the cells on an as needed basis.”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[carolthemarvelous]

iminthearmynow:

“I’m not sure, I’ve met a few really smart ones over the years,” he replied calmly, careful to keep the smirk off his face. Sarcasm was still a lost art form for him, but he was trying to work on his humor. Especially as he’d be mocked by Tony if he didn’t. Then again, he’d probably be mocked by Tony for trying as well. “I’ve even thought about getting a dog, but I’m concerned he’d be smarter than me.”

Another laugh, Steve found himself quite enjoying the sound of it. He chuckled along with her at her description of Tony. She wasn’t wrong. Steve wasn’t sure he’d met anyone so capable of getting out of paperwork the way Tony was. In previous years that would only have irritated Steve, but now he found himself wondering how exactly the billionaire did it.

“A duck suit?” He shot a side ways glance, one brow raised in perplexity. He had to admit, the verbal description created a rather amusing image, but he wasn’t sure how he felt about seeing the mental clone of himself in a duck suit… saving a kitten our of a tree… “Are you going to be the little old lady asking for the kitten?” He asked teasingly. He was getting better at communicating with others, women especially, or at least he thought he was. Hopefully she wouldn’t be insulted. He didn’t think she would be, but jokes were never his strong suit. Duck suits were apparently more his ‘thing’.

Apparently he was funnier than he thought. What with the laugh that escaped Carol. His face broke into a huge grin at the sound. A little confidence booster, even if she didn’t know it. “I’m sure you didn’t,” he replied dryly, not entirely believing her. Well, he did, but he wanted to keep the joke going a little more. If only for her to laugh again. She needed more of that. “Straight shot this time, just let me purchase a bandana and some googles for the next flight. This way I’ll be prepared for the next bug you try to feed me.”

She grinned at Steve, appreciating his humor even as she protested. “I dunno, I don’t think I would go that far. I doubt a dog could calculate angles and strategies like you do. And you’re better behaved than the grand majority of dogs I’ve met. For whatever that’s worth.”

“I don’t know where that came from. First thing that came to mind, I guess. Trying to push the absurdity of the situation.” Carol snorted a laugh at the thought of her as the ‘little old lady’ in the scenario. “If I was, do you think you’d be up to saving Chewie? You do realize she’s an alien, right? She doesn’t go anywhere she doesn’t want to be.”

She crossed her arms, considering his expression with a serious one of her own. Finally she broke, grinning at him once more. “Deal. Hold onto your hat, Cap.” She took off, maneuvering behind him and lifting him into the air as she had before.

It was only a few short minutes before she was setting Steve down on the former observation deck of the statue of liberty, now her apartment. “Well, that wasn’t as fun as I would have liked, but a deal’s a deal. Get you anything?” She called back to him over her shoulder as she headed into her kitchen.

[iminthearmynow-blog]

A chuckle resonated from the back of his throat. Again came the mental images of a dog version of himself. Though he quickly pushed those aside and offered a small smile. “Most of that is the Super Soldier Serum, I can’t claim most of the strengths for my own, but I appreciate that thought. And since there’s none left we can’t exactly test it out on any canines to see if they might not be smarter than me after an injection.”

He let out a laugh at her comment on Chewie. “An alien cat? I can only imagine the scratches I would receive on trying to ‘rescue’ her, then. Perhaps I’ll let the little old lady with flight powers do that then. You’d have better luck getting her down.”

He smiled at her posture and barely managed to grab his ball cap when she hoisted him up and into the midnight sky. The trip this time was far shorter than their excursion to Coney Island, but the view was as impressive. He didn’t think he’d ever get over the beauty of his city from the sky. And envied Carol a touch for her ability to see this as often as she’d like. Steve thought it might be the only skill he wished Dr. Erskine had been able to add in. 

They landed only a few minutes later and he took in the sight of the cityscape from Lady Liberty. It took his breath away. He supposed that most people wouldn’t get as caught up in the emotions of it as he did. He had only been up here one time before... a very long time ago, and it was the only time he had ever made it up because of how sick he was and how hard it had been to climb the stairs. It was a sight he never forgot. 

He forced his eyes away from the incredible view as she called after him. “A water is fine,” he replied, his voice slightly thick. “This place is... wow... I just-” He cut off, eyes wandering back to the skyline. He took one last look before pulling himself away from the deck and following her inside. It was certainly a lot different from the last time he’d seen it. In fact, if he hadn’t had the original so ingrained in his memory, he wouldn’t have been able to picture her apartment as anything less. He nodded as he scanned the visible areas of her home. “Your home is great, Carol. Thank you for allowing me over.”

[carolthemarvelous]

There’s a Glass on the Table || OPEN

[carolthemarvelous]

iminthearmynow:

There was a lot Steve could say to disagree with her on options, but he chose to stay silent that time. She was irritated with him, the bartender, and life in general, if he guessed it right, and adding to that with a discussion on options wasn’t the best- well… option. C’mon, Steve, you’ve got to do better than this. He was nearly convinced it would come to nothing when she pushed back from the bar and headed for the door. 

He carefully and deliberately kept the smirk from his face that she’d gone along with his idea so easily. Or maybe it was more that she just didn’t feel like dealing with an overly stubborn old man who wore spandex half the time. Whatever it was, at least she was making progress… progressively getting further away from the bottle. He rose from his seat and met her at the door. “It’s five blocks down, towards your apartment, actually. We can eat at the parlor, or if you want, go back to your place with the ice cream. I don’t get the impression you’d want to head back to headquarters this evening.”

Without another word, Carol set off in the correct direction for the parlor. To be honest, she wasn’t paying a whole lot of attention to what Steve was saying, too busy steaming over his interruption of her plans. Not that they had been much, just drinking and then (hopefully) sleep. Now that that wasn’t happening, she might as well just go along with Steve’s ‘alternative.’ Who knew, maybe she would take him up on that sparring offer as well; he was one of the few people around who could keep up with her.

When her mind caught up with what he’d been saying, she huffed another sigh. “Wasn’t planning to, but maybe I should. If I’m not gonna have the night I’d planned, I might as well get some administrative crap done. Let’s just eat at the parlor, I guess.”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

He followed a step or two behind, letting Carol have some distance, he wasn’t ignorant enough to think she wanted him there. He could tell she didn’t want to be with him. Normally he would have backed off. Steve may be socially awkward, but he didn’t want to force himself on anyone like this. However, Carol having a little too much to drink, and having so much on her plate gave him the peace of mind to change his usual responses for once. Sometimes, he supposed, one friend needs to push a little to help the other.

“No, no, no,” he said, a little more emphatically than he’d meant to. He paused and licked his lips a little, trying to employ all his strategic intelligence to formulate exactly how to express what he hoped Carol would get from his intrusion and interference with her evening. When he finally had it he gave a quick, decisive nod and began: “I’m not trying to get you back to headquarters, I’m not trying to make you do paperwork. Me coming out tonight is make sure you are ok. Because, well... you’re not. You’ve been taking on more and more responsibilities instead of delegating them. Again, this is why I’m here. You don’t need to take on every task, every bit of paperwork, and all this responsibility on your own. And you certainly don’t need to hold in your frustration with everything and bottle it up. You are an incredible woman, Carol, strong, capable, fierce, a commanding force to be reckoned with, but even you have your limits emotionally, and I’m concerned that you are about to cross them or have already. That’s why I’m here. To help you back over the edge.”

[notthejollygreengiant-blog]

Sunday in the Park with Bruce || OPEN

[notthejollygreengiant-blog]

iminthearmynow:

“Short answer, is yes,” Steve began, shaking his head and letting out a sigh. “I went to search for a friend’s daughter in a forest in Romania. Searched as much as I could for a day and climbed into a tree to rest for the night. The next thing I remember is walking out the other end of the forest, same clothes, no recollection of walking up, and discovered I’d been in there for five years. I still don’t know what happened or how.”

Steve shook his head more emphatically. “I wasn’t trying to force an apology out of you, Bruce, nor should you have to. I did a scan because you looked ill at ease, not because I saw any threats.” He put a hand on Bruce’s shoulder. “Eventually we’ll get to a place where you don’t have to keep running. I don’t know when, and I don’t know how, but I can promise you I’m trying to figure that out. You deserve a rest.”

Bruce frowned, puzzling over Steve’s story. “Where in Romania? Has anyone else looked into this?” His mind was buzzing, trying to parse what had happened to his friend. He tried to narrow down his questions, and found himself with one that was particularly pressing. “What about the girl?”

He rubbed his neck, looking uncertain. “You didn’t force it. The apology was genuine. I knew I was tense, but that was unnecessary.” The hand felt heavy on his shoulder, and it was all he could do not to shrug it off, along with the comfort it represented. He didn’t agree with anything Steve had said, but he knew arguing with the man would get them nowhere. He would stay, for the time being. That would have to be enough.

[iminthearmynow-blog]

Steve took a deep breath and slowly let it out. “Hoia Baciu, I found out afterwards that the locals call it the Bermuda Triangle of Romania. Strange things happen like that all time. And I’ve only told a handful of people because I don’t know enough about it myself.” He watched Bruce mentally piece things together. It’s what Steve liked most about the doctor, he was thorough in trying to solve any problem that came across his path. Then came the question that would invariably be asked. Steve hung his head a bit, pausing before answering. “... I don’t know. I couldn’t find my friend after I got out, no one knew where they went, I never found the girl to my knowledge. I just-... I don’t know. And I hate that I don’t know.” 

Steve pulled his hand back and took a few moments to really look at Bruce. Tired and worn out were the two major thoughts that came to mind. And Steve wasn’t sure Bruce was convinced by the centenarian’s words. Nor could Steve blame him for it. He hadn’t lived Bruce’s life, living on the run. In pieces maybe, but not even close to the number of years Bruce had to endure. “I appreciate your genuine apology, but it wasn’t necessary.” He needed to change the subject, this one wasn’t going to help Bruce any, he was sure of it. “So where are you staying?”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[deadliestwomaninthewholegalaxy]

iminthearmynow:

As his companion fell silent, so did he. Whatever it was that had compelled her to grow quiet, he didn’t need to break the silence. Instead, he took that time to steal a few glances in her direction. She reminded him of Carol in her confidence level. Or at least, the confidence she let others see. He had heard a little about Gamora from others within the Avengers and SHIELD; that she was the adopted daughter of a malevolent cosmic being, had assisted keeping an infinity stone out of the hands of another malevolent cosmic being, and that she was probably one of the tougher, if not toughest, women to work alongside them. But aggression only counted for three tenths of a person’s overall mentality in his opinion. 

Her question surprised him, having assumed she’d be pondering something else entirely. Steve shook his head. “I have no problem talking about it. Though there isn’t a whole lot to say. Central Park then was an entirely different thing than the Central Park of today. It was dry and barren, not much if any green. There were shanty towns and for awhile there was a whole lot of sheep. So the park smelled terribly from one end to the other. In the 40s some businessmen started putting in playgrounds for kids, that took off. And all the inhabitants of the shanty towns were driven out. Central Park today is far nicer than it was then. You wouldn’t want to walk in there back then.” He gave a weak smile. “And you can ask me anything about what New York was like back in the 20s, 30s. and 40s. I don’t mind. It’s a good shift. I’m still more used to that era anyway.”

Gamora looked at him as he spoke about Central Park back in the 40′s and before, she could barely imagine the place as something different than it was now. It had a certain beauty about it now, though she did find herself wishing for more of a place that was not so controlled. Central Park was beautiful, but meticulous, and the use of pesticides did nothing to help the environment. She smiled as he said she could ask questions about where he was from, she knew that it was amazing that she could speak to someone from the past that still had the capacity to remember things so clearly.

“Since you are being kind enough and answering my questions, you can ask me questions about space if you ever have any.” Sometimes it was difficult for her to talk about some of those things, especially if they concerned where she was from or Thanos. She could not imagine the difficulties that Steve faced, the differences would have been astounding she was curious how he felt about that, but she knew that might be more difficult for him to talk about. “What about the nightlife back then, you seem not to like what we have now, what did you used to do when you were in the 40′s?”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

Questions about space? Now there was a loaded offer. He wasn’t even sure where he’d begin if he asked. His eyes strayed above him a few times as they walked, watching stars and wondering what it must have been like to live up there. “Did you grow up on one planet or many?” Seriously, Rogers? That’s your first question? He tried to rationalize it with himself, but he still felt slightly embarrassed for reasons even he couldn’t have explained.

“The night life?” He pondered this, and gave a small chuckle. “Well, I didn’t do much in the 40s. I went from being a rather scrawny, sickly man to the military’s propaganda tool for the sale of war bonds. By the time I got back stateside i had been asleep for 70 years, so I never went to many clubs back then. My buddy Bucky did, though. Swing music and big bands were popular during that time. The few times I did go to the club, the music wasn’t as loud as it is now, though it certainly had a big sound. And swing music was the dance style of choice.” He shook his head, a weak smile on his face. “I never got to dance though, I just watched. Certainly a lot different than today.”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[iminthearmynow-blog]

carolthemarvelous:

Carol quirked an eyebrow at her companion with a smirk. “Sure you can. As long as the dog has enough intelligence and you’re patient and firm enough, any dog can learn a new trick, old or young. Unless you’re saying you’re not as smart as a dog…

She let loose another very genuine laugh at his quip. “Pretty sure no one is ever done with paperwork, unless you’re Tony. Then you ignore it until someone more responsible does it.” Her tone was extremely light; Tony was a good friend to her, so they were accustomed to teasing one another. “As for ‘after you retire…’ I’m pretty damn sure you’re never gonna retire. At least, not in the traditional sense. You’re the kind of man who will never stand by when something bad is happening. And like I said before, you’re synonymous with Captain America at this point. You could be helping a damn kitten out of a tree in a duck suit, people would still say they’d seen Captain America perform a daring rescue.”

A small smile flitted across her face, and she shot him a glance, recognizing the offer for what it was. “Thanks. I’d appreciate that. Didn’t really see just how much work this job was. Don’t think anyone really does, not until they’re standing there doing it.”

Her loudest laugh yet burst forward at his quipped response. “I honestly didn’t anticipate that, though it’d be a lie if I said it had never happened to me before.” She dropped the overly-innocent look, laughing once again. “Alright fine. You caught me, I was gonna do some acrobatics. Nothing dangerous for you, but fun. Tell you what, one-time offer: Straight line, here to there, no acrobatics, and I’ll keep a close eye for any potential bug missiles. Fair?”

“I’m not sure, I’ve met a few really smart ones over the years,” he replied calmly, careful to keep the smirk off his face. Sarcasm was still a lost art form for him, but he was trying to work on his humor. Especially as he’d be mocked by Tony if he didn’t. Then again, he’d probably be mocked by Tony for trying as well. “I’ve even thought about getting a dog, but I’m concerned he’d be smarter than me.”

Another laugh, Steve found himself quite enjoying the sound of it. He chuckled along with her at her description of Tony. She wasn’t wrong. Steve wasn’t sure he’d met anyone so capable of getting out of paperwork the way Tony was. In previous years that would only have irritated Steve, but now he found himself wondering how exactly the billionaire did it.

“A duck suit?” He shot a side ways glance, one brow raised in perplexity. He had to admit, the verbal description created a rather amusing image, but he wasn’t sure how he felt about seeing the mental clone of himself in a duck suit... saving a kitten our of a tree... “Are you going to be the little old lady asking for the kitten?” He asked teasingly. He was getting better at communicating with others, women especially, or at least he thought he was. Hopefully she wouldn’t be insulted. He didn’t think she would be, but jokes were never his strong suit. Duck suits were apparently more his ‘thing’.

Apparently he was funnier than he thought. What with the laugh that escaped Carol. His face broke into a huge grin at the sound. A little confidence booster, even if she didn’t know it. “I’m sure you didn’t,” he replied dryly, not entirely believing her. Well, he did, but he wanted to keep the joke going a little more. If only for her to laugh again. She needed more of that. “Straight shot this time, just let me purchase a bandana and some googles for the next flight. This way I’ll be prepared for the next bug you try to feed me.”

[carolthemarvelous]

There’s a Glass on the Table || OPEN

[iminthearmynow-blog]

carolthemarvelous:

Carol gave him a withering look. “Well, whether it would help or not, it looks like that’s not an option for me anymore.” She glanced at the door the bartender had vanished through, then heaved a heavy sigh and shoved herself back from the bar. “Looks like I’m having ice cream. Whoopee.”

More than anything, Carol was just irritated that Cap had interrupted her evening. It wasn’t as though she didn’t know her limits, and she had planned on going right to the edge of them. As it was, she was now going to go and eat at some ice cream parlor with the man who was practically the icon of wholesome American values. Not exactly the same thing. She glanced over her shoulder as she shoved her way through the door. “So which way is this place?”

There was a lot Steve could say to disagree with her on options, but he chose to stay silent that time. She was irritated with him, the bartender, and life in general, if he guessed it right, and adding to that with a discussion on options wasn’t the best- well... option. C’mon, Steve, you’ve got to do better than this. He was nearly convinced it would come to nothing when she pushed back from the bar and headed for the door. 

He carefully and deliberately kept the smirk from his face that she’d gone along with his idea so easily. Or maybe it was more that she just didn’t feel like dealing with an overly stubborn old man who wore spandex half the time. Whatever it was, at least she was making progress... progressively getting further away from the bottle. He rose from his seat and met her at the door. “It’s five blocks down, towards your apartment, actually. We can eat at the parlor, or if you want, go back to your place with the ice cream. I don’t get the impression you’d want to head back to headquarters this evening.”

[notthejollygreengiant-blog]

Sunday in the Park with Bruce || OPEN

[iminthearmynow-blog]

notthejollygreengiant:

Bruce nodded. Most people don’t consider the fourth-dimensional aspect of the change you had to go through. It adds an extra layer of complication to everything, and that’s not an easy thing to untangle. Doesn’t mean you can’t do it, just means you have to take it at your own pace. Forget what those trainees said. You’re doing fine.“ His brow furrowed at Steve’s last comment. "Again? I knew you’d disappeared for a while, but I didn’t know what had happened. You lost more time?”

He forced his shoulders to relax at Steve’s words. He hadn’t realized he had reacted so strongly to seeing Steve check the area. Apparently four or so years of being on the run would do that to a person. “Right. Sorry. Habit.”

“Short answer, is yes,” Steve began, shaking his head and letting out a sigh. “I went to search for a friend’s daughter in a forest in Romania. Searched as much as I could for a day and climbed into a tree to rest for the night. The next thing I remember is walking out the other end of the forest, same clothes, no recollection of walking up, and discovered I’d been in there for five years. I still don’t know what happened or how.”

Steve shook his head more emphatically. “I wasn’t trying to force an apology out of you, Bruce, nor should you have to. I did a scan because you looked ill at ease, not because I saw any threats.” He put a hand on Bruce’s shoulder. “Eventually we’ll get to a place where you don’t have to keep running. I don’t know when, and I don’t know how, but I can promise you I’m trying to figure that out. You deserve a rest.”

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[iminthearmynow-blog]

deadliestwomaninthewholegalaxy:

Gamora was silent for a little while musing over Steve’s words. She knew some about the time period he came from, it was horrific some of the things she had read, every side did things that they were not proud of and it seemed like they wanted to cover it up now. She knew that environmental issues were not an issue until recently, and that likely New York would have been filled with air pollution.

“What was it like back then? I have read some, but that is different than how people experienced it. Of course you do not have to answer if you are not comfortable.” Steve was kind enough to spend this time with her, she did not want to upset him.

As his companion fell silent, so did he. Whatever it was that had compelled her to grow quiet, he didn’t need to break the silence. Instead, he took that time to steal a few glances in her direction. She reminded him of Carol in her confidence level. Or at least, the confidence she let others see. He had heard a little about Gamora from others within the Avengers and SHIELD; that she was the adopted daughter of a malevolent cosmic being, had assisted keeping an infinity stone out of the hands of another malevolent cosmic being, and that she was probably one of the tougher, if not toughest, women to work alongside them. But aggression only counted for three tenths of a person’s overall mentality in his opinion. 

Her question surprised him, having assumed she’d be pondering something else entirely. Steve shook his head. “I have no problem talking about it. Though there isn’t a whole lot to say. Central Park then was an entirely different thing than the Central Park of today. It was dry and barren, not much if any green. There were shanty towns and for awhile there was a whole lot of sheep. So the park smelled terribly from one end to the other. In the 40s some businessmen started putting in playgrounds for kids, that took off. And all the inhabitants of the shanty towns were driven out. Central Park today is far nicer than it was then. You wouldn’t want to walk in there back then.” He gave a weak smile. “And you can ask me anything about what New York was like back in the 20s, 30s. and 40s. I don’t mind. It’s a good shift. I’m still more used to that era anyway.”

[carolthemarvelous]

There’s a Glass on the Table || OPEN

[iminthearmynow-blog]

carolthemarvelous:

Carol only spared Steve the time for a scowl before she had turned to the bartender, at whom she leveled a glare strong enough that the poor kid muttered something about a chore he needed to do in the back and scurried away. She sighed, turned back to her newly-arrived friend, scowled at him again for good measure, then shook her head, sitting back from the bar.

“Nothing I really want to trouble anyone else with. Just came here for a couple drinks before I headed back to my place for the night. Didn’t want to stay in headquarters this time. Besides, Chewy needs to see me more often.” She forced some casualness into her voice, though she doubted it would genuinely convince the super soldier. Still, Steve was polite enough that he just might let the matter drop. She could hope, anyway.

“Mmhmm,” he nodded, not bothering to hide his doubtful expression. She was trying to hide whatever was going on, and he wasn’t sure whether to push or hold back. Her reaction to the bartender and even to him told him plenty. He knew she wouldn’t outright tell him what was going on, but how far to push was the question. She sounded like she was trying to appear altogether. But he knew that wasn’t true. Though how he should call her on it was another question. At least she admitted there was something. 

“I may not be leading the Avengers anymore, and under you in a few respects, but I’m a lot older, and usually a lot wiser.” He smirked for good measure. “Drinking may help you drown it all away for a time, but it isn’t going to help you in the long run. That’s what a good punching bag or sparring buddy, and a late night of venting and ice cream is for. I know of a good place up the street that sells gallons of the best flavors I’ve had this century. The best one I had before was bought out and several decades later is home to an acupuncturist.” He rambled on in the hopes that she’d cheer up a bit. Even if it didn’t work, he was far too stubborn to give up easily in this.

[iminthearmynow-blog]

When the Lights Go Down in the City // Open

[iminthearmynow-blog]

carolthemarvelous:

Carol shot Steve a smile at his slip, patting him amiably on the shoulder. “You’ll get there.” She understood the struggle it could be to drop words from your vocabulary, so as long as he was trying, she wouldn’t give him a hard time. Probably.

Steve really seemed to be enthused by the idea of visiting her apartment, so she nodded decisively. “Then my place it is. Can’t say I wouldn’t mind dodging my own paperwork.” She laughed outright at his comment, tossing her hair lightly. “I’m not too easy on them, myself. I tend to punch right through them. But you’re right, maybe I should up our monthly bulk order. Some of the people we’ve got coming around these days really shred them.”

Glancing around to get her bearings on how far they’d walked, she did a quick mental calculation and grinned at her friend. “Flying would be about three times as fast. That is, if you’re not too traumatized from the last time. I promise I’ll be gentle.” The grin dimmed into an all-too-innocent smile.

Steve shook his head and smiled. “If you say so. Though I don’t think it’s very fair that you’re asking a centenarian to unlearn his vocabulary. I didn’t think you could teach an old dog new tricks.”

His eyes drifted out ahead of him, though his mind was elsewhere. “One of these days I’ll be all caught up with paperwork, but I’m suspecting it’ll be when I’m celebrating my 200th birthday. By then I’ll be old enough to retire.” 

He smiled at her laugh, it was nice to see her relaxed. Lately she’d been taking too much on herself, she’d say she was fine, but he couldn’t help but wonder when she’d hit her breaking point. And trying to take items off her plate only worked so well for a time. Sam’s death had hit everyone pretty hard, but his responsibilities fell on her adding to her already full load. Steve only hoped she’d realize that he was stepping up to assist her and that she’d share her load, if for no other reason than to give herself a chance to get above water. “I’ll take care of the supply order, you’ve got enough things to deal with.” He said softly. 

He was enthused by the idea of going to her apartment. Both because of the venue and the ability to get to know Carol more. In her home she’d be far more relaxed. The thought of home gave him a tinge of regret. He still hadn’t found that himself. He was quick to disguise his momentary sadness and offered a laugh at her reminder of before. “If I didn’t know any better, Carol Danvers, I’d say you tried to steer me into the path of the oncoming bug. I’m nearly convinced you’ll attempt to do so again. And don’t think your smile fools me. I’m catching on to your tricks. Old as I am.”

[notthejollygreengiant-blog]

Sunday in the Park with Bruce || OPEN

[iminthearmynow-blog]

notthejollygreengiant:

Bruce nodded, but his expression was still troubled. He had been aware of the events unfolding in New York, but by the time things had started to escalate he was busy playing cat-and-mouse with General Ross’s forces. After the incident in Johannesburg, followed shortly by Sokovia, Ross had redoubled his efforts to take Bruce into military custody. He had managed to lay low in Bangladesh for quite some time, but most of his hiatus from being an Avenger had been spent on the run throughout Southern Asia and the Middle East. All he knew about HOPE and all the events surrounding it had been picked up in snatches of conversation, snippets of televised coverage: politicians, radicals, deaths, rampages… When he heard about Tony being declared missing, he started trying to find an outlet to enter the US, but found himself blocked by Ross at every turn. Finally he’d managed to slip past him, but by then Tony had not only ‘died,’ but been found quite alive some time later. He’d meant it when he’d said that he wasn’t certain the Hulk would have been much help in this particular situation, but at least he could have tried.

He mentally shook himself, bringing his mind back to the present. Steve seemed to be having troubled thoughts himself, perhaps thoughts along the same lines, though he doubted it was under the same circumstances. “Helpful, sure. It’s just hard to make sure he only demolishes the bits we want demolished. That’s when we start running into trouble.” Flashes of Johannesburg flicked across his mind again, and he immediately seized upon the lighter subject Steve offered.

“Maybe I should. There’s something to be said for cultural immersion as a way of learning, but I imagine it would be… overwhelming, to say the least, to immerse yourself in the future of your own culture. I’m not sure the brain is quite built for that. Learning things at your own pace is probably the best way to go.” He noted Steve’s subtle perimeter checks, and did one himself to cover the areas that were out of Steve’s field of vision. Had he heard something that Bruce himself had missed? Was one of Ross’s men here again? He doubted the man would press things that far in New York, least of all when he was with Captain America of all people, but clearly something had set Steve on edge.

If the expression on Bruce’s face was any indication, he was having much the same thought Steve had. But he wasn’t naive enough to think that Bruce’s didn’t stray towards the more negative aspects of himself. Bruce’s next words only affirmed that. He would have spoken up to attempt to alleviate his friend’s concerns, but allowed Bruce to change subjects. They would drop the topic for now. But Steve was determined that they would bring it up again. 

It was beyond relieving to hear Bruce’s opinion on Steve learning a new culture. He pegged the issue perfectly where others often ignored the basic fact that while this was Steve’s culture, it wasn’t. And no matter how much he tried, Steve still always felt behind. He figured he always would. “I think you hit the nail on the head with that, Bruce. The future of my own culture. I’m not sure anyone could easily do that. I hope no one else has to.” He let out a weak chuckle. “And if it wasn’t bad enough once, it happened again.”

He caught Bruce checking on the areas behind Steve. And thought he saw a trace of concern in the other man’s expression. Mentally chiding himself for being too obvious in his own perimeter checks, he shook his head. “At ease, Banner. From what I can see, you’re fine.”