A/N: English is not my native language so I apoloigize in advance for any grammatical and voc. mistakes.
Please bear with me. Enjoy!
CHAPTER ONE :
'RECALL'
WATCHPOINT : GIBRALTAR
"I remind you, recalling Overwatch agents to active duty comes with great risk.
The Petras Act clearly states that any Overwatch activity is deemed illegal and punishable by prosecution."
Athena's words lingered in his mind, repeating every word carefully. He remembered clicking the 'Y' button and it felt great. The thought of everyone coming together again after all this time brought great joy to his heart, but the consequences of his decision troubled him. Not only did he brought everyone in danger by requesting a recall of all former Overwatch agents, the reason behind it might not have been so innocent. Of course, the world was in chaos and it needed people to protect and help, but deep inside, he always wondered if part of wanting to regroup Overwatch might have come from a feeling of loneliness. Was he being selfish? Was he putting everyone's lives at risk simply because he wanted company? Was this the right-
His trail of thought was cut short by a mechanic voice who called out his name multiple times to get his attention without success.
"Winston? Winston. Winston!"
"Ah! Yes. What is it Athena?" he quickly responded.
"Are you feeling okay? You've been unresponsive ever since you've recalled all Overwatch agents. Is something the matter?"
"Everything is fine, Athena. You mustn't overthink so much."
"Winston, I think you're the one overthinking things."
Winston sighed. He couldn't sneak anything past her.
Feeling like Athena was still expecting some explanation from him, he changed the subject and asked: "Has anyone responded to my call yet?"
"No, not yet. It seems that- hold on- you have an incoming call from former Overwatch agent Lena Oxton. Do you want me to answer her?"
"Lena? Yes, yes! Gladly!"
After some static, a familiar voice filled the laboratory. It was a warm and very sweet voice. How much he's missed her.
"Winston? Is that you, love? It's been too long!"
"Yes, it has."
"So, how's it going, big guy? Anything exciting?" Lena asked with so much enthusiasm.
"I'm afraid I'll have to disappoint you, Lena. Ever since Overwatch was disbanded, my life has been rather dull. In fact, the highlight of my life in these past 5 years, is making this very phone call."
"Aw, Winston, cheer up! I'm just happy you finally called, even if it took you 5 long years!"
Winston let out a wholehearted laugh, something he hasn't done for a long time. Ever since Overwatch fell, he has isolated himself here in this lab, his only friend being Athena. Though he appreciated her company very much, she wasn't the person to crack a joke or two. Her lack of understanding humor is still somewhat new.
"Where are you now, love? I'll come and meet ya!" Lena said.
"What? No!" he replied in a panic.
"What do you mean 'no'?"
"Lena, don't take this the wrong way, but it is still far too dangerous for us to meet up! We are still on the government's radar. Any Overwatch activity is punishable!"
"So, I hear…" she said lazily. "They can't do this and you know it!"
Winston let out a heavy sigh. What did he do? Why did he get her involved?
"Lena," he began.
"Winston, why did you call me?" she asked earnestly.
"I…" Winston found himself unable to speak. Every word he'd ever learned faded.
"I know why you called, love and it's a good thing that you did."
"I'm not sure, Lena. Part of me wonders if I didn't do it out of my own selfishness. I mean, with one click, I put all your lives in danger. If something were to happen to any of you, I could never -"
"Slow down, big guy. This isn't your fault. I mean, of course, there was a certain risk attached to it but you did it out of the good of your heart. I've seen the news, I know what's happening around the world. They need us, Winston. They need our help!"
"But-" he said but was cut off by Lena.
"And even if some part of you did it because you felt alone, no one would blame you for that. I understand how you feel. Overwatch was- is - part of my life and you guys are my family."
"Are you sure?"
"Positive. I think everyone has been feeling the same way like you have but none of us had the courage to take action. I guess we're all just a little scared after what happened."
Her voice was sad and he understood her sadness. What happened 5 years ago, broke everyone's heart. Overwatch was something they all built together, it was their hope and their dreams. Their motivation to fight for a better world. To help people around the globe and diminish their fears and pains. To end their suffering. No one could've foresee the results that led to Overwatch's downfall. And to think it all started within the very family they've become… it's such a sad reality.
"Winston, let's do this. It's time to fight back!"
He heard the determination in her voice and could no longer tell her no. Yes, there was a lot at stake, but that's a risk he's willing take. After all, heroes lay their lives on the line all the time.
"You're right. It is time. We've waited long enough."
"Now I like what I'm hearing! Come on, quick, send me your coordinates! I can't wait to see you!"
"About that…"
"Not again, Winston! I thought I'd finally convinced you!" she said slightly annoyed.
"Don't worry, you have. The coordinates I'm sending you are closer to your current location." he explained. "There's an old coffee shop in Helsinki, The Hard Sleeper, that was used as a secret gathering spot for Overwatch agents. Meet me there."
"Alright then! The Hard Sleeper, Helsinki. I'll be there in a blink! See ya there, Winston!" Lena said before hanging up.
Winston stared at the screen. The conversation he just had still played in his head. It's been so long…
"What do you say, Athena? Up for a little trip?"
"Tell me how to proceed and we'll get ready." her response was steady, clear.
They're really doing this. They're bringing back Overwatch.
