Shades of Green
Chapter Four- Welcome to the Team
Avengers Mansion
The Kitchen
Hulk and Shego looked at the gathered Avengers, which included the likes of Steve Rogers/Captain America, Clint Barton/Hawkeye, Janet Van Dyne/Wasp, Hank Pym/Giant-Man/Ant-Man, Tony Stark/Iron Man, and Thor Odinson/Thor. To say that both Shego and Hulk were surprised by their presence would have been a major understatement, considering how wide both of their eyes were as they looked at the gathering of Earth's Mightiest Heroes. It was a sight that make any being at least a little nervous, for who could comprehend how any of these heroes react to a situation such as this.
It was times like this that made Hulk wish that he didn't leave his bedroom or get out of bed period, and considering he was sleeping with the very beautiful Shego, he was really starting to consider the logic of not staying in bed with her. After all, it had been a long time since he felt so comfortable, and while he wouldn't admit it to anyone, a part of him loved the fact that Shego had sneaked into his bedroom. However, right now his focus was on his fellow Avengers, not really certain how they would react to Shego's sudden appearance.
Shego herself was a little more than nervous than she normally would be, for the last thing she expected to happen was for the other Avengers to find out about her this soon. While she knew that it was only a matter of time until they would have found out about her being with Hulk, it was something that she never expected, nor could have guessed it to be this sudden, and considering she was only here for about a single night, that made the surprise all the more shocking. She wasn't quite sure how the other Avengers would react to her presence, but she had a feeling that Hulk would come to her defense if things would become sour.
She couldn't say for certain, but she could almost sense that Hulk was going into a protective state of mind, which touched her in a way that made the Green Goliath even more endearing to her. Then, without warning, Hulk lifted Shego in his arms and glared savagely at his fellow Avengers, holding her protectively in his massive arms. Even as Hulk held Shego in his arms, she could feel his hands holding her ever so tenderly in a protective embrace, his glaring eyes daring any of the Avengers to harm her. This was all the proof that Shego needed, and despite herself and the situation, she let a light smile cross her features.
Well, what do you know? He actually cares about me? I never thought that anyone would care about me enough to protect me from harm, but yet here he is... the Hulk... the strongest being on the planet... willing to protect me from harm. Heh, what are the odds? Shego mused to herself, unaware of the fact that her heart fluttered ever so slightly at Hulk's protective gesture.
"Greetings, Hulk and lovely maiden! Good morning and welcome to our home!", Thor greeted warmly.
"Well, look who it is, guys. It's the big green love machine! Finally came down to get some food, huh?", Clint Barton/Hawkeye remarked, crossing his arms over his chest as he leaned against the counter.
"Okay... so Janet wasn't pulling our legs after all.", Tony Stark said in utter disbelief.
"Never in my wildest imaginations would I have ever thought that I'd see the day when Hulk would have a girlfriend!", Hank muttered, his voice only loud enough for Janet to hear him.
"See! I told you! Hulk does have a girlfriend!", Janet cheered in her usual cheerful tone.
"Aye, it is a glorious day for our friend. Come Hulk and green skinned maiden! Join us for breakfast!", Thor said, walking up and leading Hulk and Shego to their seats at the table.
Hulk and Shego were seated beside each other, but soon Janet took the seat on the right, trapping Shego between Hulk and herself. Janet offered Shego one of her cheerful smiles, which Shego returned with an uneasy smile of her own. Getting this much attention wasn't something that she was used to, nor did she expect it when she arrived at the mansion. Hulk didn't seem to notice, his attention strictly on his other teammates, giving them all a glare that clearly said, "Leave me alone or I will smash you!".
Why do I have a feeling that Janet is behind this? She's the only one who could have peeked in my room and seen me with Shego. This is just great! Who knows what she told the others! Could this morning get any worse? Stupid Janet! Always sticking her nose in where it doesn't belong! Hulk thought to himself, his eyes narrowing as he glared at his fellow Avengers.
Thor, Steve Rogers/Captain America, Hank Pym/Giant-Man/Ant-Man, Clint Barton/Hawkeye, and Tony Stark/Iron Man took their seats at the table, their eyes remaining on the supposed couple that is Hulk and Shego. Shego recognized all of them instantly, for she had long been studying the Avengers, and it was quite easy for her to remember them all. Still, she had to act like she was meeting them for the first time, as not to make them suspecious and reveal her real intentions.
"Hi! My name is Janet Van Dyne, but you can call me Wasp or Jan or Janet. Any one of those will do.", Janet said as she grabbed Shego's right hand and shook it excitedly.
"Okay... hi Janet. I see that you're very... cheerful this morning.", Shego remarked, doing her best to keep the smile on her face.
"My name is Thor Odinson. Son of Odin and Gaea. Thunder god of Asgard and protector of Midgard. It is a pleasure meeting you.", Thor introduced himself extending his hand, which Shego gently grasped and shook.
"Nice to meet you, Thor.", Shego replied as she released his hand from her grip.
"My name is Tony Stark, owner of Stark Industries. I'm sure you've heard of me.", Tony announced with his usual cocky attitude.
If there was thing Shego hated, it was a womanizer like Tony Stark, and his arrogance only made her dislike him even more. She had dealt with plenty of creeps like him throughout her life, high school and beyond, and she had a special way of dealing with those types. Usually, it would involve either beating them to a bloody pulp, threatening and or mocking them until their pride was utterly shattered. After all, just because Tony Stark is a billionaire doesn't mean that he's better than everyone else, nor does it make him a god.
"Oh, I know of you. You're the rich creep who's a womanizer. Just to let you know, if you touch me, I will rip off your arm and shove it down your throat!", Shego replied, giving a threatening glare in Tony's direction.
"Ooh, you've just got burned! I'm starting to like her already.", Janet giggled in amusement.
"Wow! Somebody who's as aggressive as Hulk on a normal basis. You're going to be a lot of fun.", Hawkeye remarked with a chuckle.
"And who are you supposed to be?", Shego questioned, raising a challenging eyebrow.
"Name's Clint Barton, but I'm known as Hawkeye.", Clint answered, bowing his head slightly in a greeting gesture.
"My name is Hank Pym.", Hank greeted casually.
"And my name is Steve Rogers, but you may know me as Captain America.", Steve Rogers informed, extending his hand to gently shake Shego's.
Upon hearing that name, Shego could swear that she was shaking hands with a ghost. She had always thought that Captain America had died in the war, and that the guy with the Avengers was just some new superhero that decided to pay homage to one of the planet's greatest heroes. But here he was, Steve Rogers, the original and one and only Captain America, and Shego was shaking his hand! It was an honor to say the very least!
"Captain America? I thought you were dead?", Shego asked, puzzled and shocked that the war hero was still alive.
"That's what everyone else thought, but I'm still alive and well.", Steve Rogers replied in his normal strong commanding tone.
"So, what be thy name, green maiden?", Thor asked politely.
"My name is Shego.", Shego answered calmly.
"Is that really your name or do you have a real name besides that of which you are called?", Thor questioned.
"Well, if you must know, my real name is Sheena Elizabeth Go.", Shego informed, turning her attention from Thor back to Hulk, who was just sitting in his seat with an angry scowl on his face.
"So... not that it's any of our business, but how long have you and Hulk been together? You know, as boyfriend and girlfriend... a couple or whatever?", Janet asked curiously, not noticing the evil smirk that briefly appeared on Shego's face or the way Hulk's eyes widened.
Shego noticed the way Hulk's eyes became wide, which could only mean that he was unsettled by Janet's question. She had planned to flirt with Hulk out in front of the other Avengers when the time was right, if only to amuse herself and to establish that she belonged to Hulk and he belonged to her, which would also allow Hulk to become used to her presence and accept her. It was going to take some time, but Shego knew that she would eventually win over Hulk's affections. Little did she know that even now, a small part of her was already beginning to fall for the Hulk.
Don't you dare to even think of any romantic thoughts regarding Hulk! You are not allowed to have any feelings for him whatsoever! Still, I've got to admit, this could help me with my plan. If I can get Hulk interested in me, it would keep the Avengers from questioning my motives and why I'm here in the first place. Okay, it's time to have some fun! Shego thought with wicked amusement.
"Well, since you've asked I guess I could tell you.", Shego started only to be cut off by Hulk, who slammed his fist down hard against the metal table, leaving a massive dent in the steel structure.
"Don't you punks have something else to do?", Hulk questioned, his voice seeping with anger.
"I think the big guy wants to be left alone.", Captain America whispered to the others.
"Aye, it would seem Hulk would like some time alone with his maiden. Perhaps it is best that we leave them to enjoy their breakfast.", Thor responded, his voice loud enough for the other Avengers to hear, his eyes looking directly at his fellow teammates.
If anyone could make the other Avengers understand a message or a demand with only a slight glare, it would have to be Thor, for the Thunder God commanded respect. He may not be the leader like Captain America, or the scientist or technological wizards that were Tony Stark and Hank Pym, but when it came to raw power and a commanding presence, Thor could make even the unruliest of men obey his orders. And right now, Thor could tell that Hulk wanted to be left alone with the woman he cared for, and Thor was going to do all in his power to make sure that would happen. He knew all too well what it is like to deal with the Hulk when he was angry or enraged, and it's an experience that Thor could live without having to deal with ever again.
Besides, Thor himself would spend his time alone with the mortal female known as Jane Foster, and he could more than understand that Hulk wanted to left alone with the woman he loves. Being the understanding immortal that he is, Thor rose up out of his seat, intending to leave Hulk and Shego alone in peace. He couldn't help but smile inwardly at the thought of an old proverb that he recalled, something about beauty taming the beast. It certainly fit the situation, for Shego might be the one that could sooth the Hulk's terrible rage.
"Farewell, Shego. It was an honor meeting you.", Thor said sincerely, bowing slightly before heading towards the door that exited the kitchen.
I guess not even the Hulk can resist the charms of a beautiful woman. Thor mused to himself, walking out of the kitchen and heading for the library.
"Well, I do have more meetings to take care of, and I guess it's best that I actually show up this time. So, I'll see you guys later.", Tony Stark remarked, exiting the kitchen and then the mansion itself.
"I think I'm going to go practice my archery skills. How about you, Cap? Up for some practice?", Clint Barton asked, getting out of his seat.
"Sure, I'll be down shortly.", Captain America replied, watching as Clint exited the kitchen.
"Well, it was nice meeting you, Miss Go. I'll see all of you later.", Steve Rogers remarked before exiting the kitchen.
"Well, now that everyone is away, I'll be going to work on some of my projects. You coming along, Jan?", Hank asked his female assistant.
"No thanks, Hank. I'll just be here with Hulk and Sheena.", Janet replied, watching as Hank shrugged his shoulders before walking out of the kitchen.
As soon as Captain America and Hank Pym left the kitchen, Janet got up and took the seat across from Hulk and Shego, allowing herself a better view of the couple. Janet was always the romantic type, and she couldn't help but let out a light sigh of happiness as she glanced at Hulk and Shego, for it felt good to know that Hulk had finally found someone who truly liked him and understood him. True, Janet never could of guessed that it would have been a woman with pale green skin, but then again she guessed that it was one of the things that Hulk found attractive about Shego. Still, Janet was curious as to how Shego's skin became that unique tone of color.
Maybe she was exposed to gamma or cosmic radiation of some kind when she was younger? Janet wondered to herself, before realizing that both Hulk and Shego were staring directly at her.
"Oh, sorry. I was just thinking. So, what you want for breakfast?", Janet asked as she got out of her seat and made her way to the fridge.
"Pancakes and stack them high, with a lot of syrup and strawberry jam with bacon on the side. And a tall glass of milk to wash it down.", Hulk answered, his voice devoid of any emotion.
"And what about you, Sheena? Can I get you anything?", Janet asked politely.
"I'll take a cup of coffee and a few pancakes with just syrup. No need to go all out, for I never been much of a big morning breakfast kind of person. If it's no trouble, that is.", Shego answered, glancing at Hulk briefly before returning her attention back to Janet.
Janet went to the fridge and got out a massive stack of pancakes, about a foot tall in height, for the Hulk to feast on while adding three pieces of bacon on the side for the Green Goliath. She retrieved a plate for Shego, placing three pancakes on the plate before setting it down right in front of her before grabbing Hulk's plate and placing it in front of him. Janet then quickly grabbed the bottle of maple syrup and set it on the table before grabbing a large glass for Hulk and a small glass for Shego, filling them up with milk that she retrieved from the fridge.
Then, lastly she retrieved the glass container of strawberry jam, setting it on the table in front of Hulk's plate while also quickly giving out the silverware. As soon as she gave Hulk and Shego their individual breakfast, Janet returned to her seat, her normal cheerful smile on her face. Shego inhaled the smell of the fresh pancakes, enjoying their delicious scent, for it wasn't often that she would get good homemade food.
"There ya go! Enjoy your breakfast!", Janet announced in her usual cheerful tone.
Shego began slowly eating her pancakes, but she couldn't help but notice that Hulk began savagely devouring his food down like a starving grizzly bear! Shego had to admit, she was both impressed and disgusted at the same time, for she didn't know how anyone could possibly devour that much food in such a short time. She took her time with her three pancakes, cutting them up into smaller pieces before taking a bite, while taking a sip of milk once and a while to wash it down.
She eventually finished her pancakes, taking one last drink of her remaining glass of milk before using a napkin to clean her mouth. Just as Shego relaxed into her seat, she couldn't help but notice that Janet was looking at her, curiosity in the brunette's dark blue almost violet colored eyes. Shego could easily sense that Janet was anxious to start asking questions, which means that she'd have to give her some very interesting answers.
Janet was just really excited about the whole situation, ever since discovering it earlier this morning. She had so many questions to ask, and she really wanted to get the chance to answer them. It was because of this that she did not leave to go work with Hank in the lab, for she was just too excited about the new couple living here in the mansion! I mean, who wouldn't want to meet Hulk's new girlfriend?
This could be a chance to make a new friend... and this time it was a female friend! Janet could really use someone that would go shopping with her, and maybe she could finally convince Hulk to go to the store to pick out some clothes, now that Shego could possibly sway him into giving in! There was just so many possibilities in a situation this great, that Janet couldn't help but feel all giddy and cheerful! It was like a wish come true, not only for the Hulk, but herself as well.
"Is there something you want to ask, Janet? If so, you'd better get it out of your system now while you can.", Shego suggested nonchalantly, looking at the brunette across from her, who appeared to be startled out of her thoughts.
Oh, there is just so much that I want to ask. But what should I ask her first? Should I ask her where she's from or should I ask her about her relationship with Hulk? There's just so many things that I want to ask, but I can't seem to figure out which one I want to ask first. Janet mused to herself, thinking of how she was going to start her conversation with Shego.
"Well, it's just that... do you prefer Shego or Sheena?", Janet asked before continuing.
"Either one will do, Janet. Now, what's on your mind?", Shego stated, keeping her attention on the Janet, noticing that she was fidgeting with her hands.
"How long have you and Hulk known each other? How long have you two been an item? Ya know, dating and all those other things that couples do? How did you meet each other?", Janet questioned, noticing that Hulk was seemingly glaring both at her and Shego.
You just have to jump to conclusions, don't you? I hate you, Janet. I hope you realize that. Because if my glare could smash, you'd be flatter than those pancakes I've just eaten! Hulk's mind raged, focusing his attention from Janet to Shego, noticing that she had an amused smirk on her face.
"Well, we've just met very recently, so I don't know if you could say we're a couple... yet. Anyways, when I first saw Hulk, I guess you could say... I fell for him instantly. How we met was very interesting, because we got into a little fight, and shortly after that little spat of ours... we shared our first kiss.", Shego answered, turning her attention towards Hulk, looking deeply and lovingly into his eyes as a smile graced her features.
"Awww! You two kissed when you first met? That is so romantic!", Janet replied, looking affectionately at Hulk and Shego.
Hulk wasn't really paying attention to what Janet said, for his eyes were locked onto Shego's own emerald hued eyes. Strangely enough, he couldn't seem to tear himself away from her gaze, and neither could Shego tear herself away from his own. There was just so much emotion and beauty to behold in Shego, which Hulk could only compare to a goddess, and that's just what Shego was... a beautiful goddess of a woman. Out of the corner of his eye, Hulk noticed that Janet was watching them intently, a dreamy affectionate gaze etched onto her face. It was this that caused Hulk to break free of Shego's gaze, causing her to look away as well, but not before she noticed the smirk that briefly appeared on his face, most likely from embarrassment.
"It's not a big deal, really.", Hulk muttered, briefly scratching the back of his neck nervously, even as Shego giggled in amusement.
"Oh, I don't know. Judging by the way you acted, it must have been a pretty big deal, or maybe it meant something to you, Hulk.", Shego responded in a sultry tone of voice, inching closer to Hulk, who gulped nervously as he noticed that Janet was watching with an intrigued interest.
"What are you looking at, pixie-stick?", Hulk demanded, tearing his gaze away from Shego to glare accusingly at Janet.
"Don't mind me, Hulk. It's okay if you want some time with your girlfriend. If you want to kiss her, feel free to do so.", Janet informed, quickly getting a response from the Green Goliath.
"She's not my girlfriend, Janet! She's just a friend!", Hulk growled, glaring at Janet, who seemed unconvinced by Hulk's denial of his supposed relationship with Shego.
"He's playing hard to get. But I don't mind. Then again, I always did enjoy a challenge.", Shego remarked, winking slyly at Hulk, who glared at her for a moment as he crossed his arms over his vast chest.
"Oh, I see now. Don't worry, Sheena. He can't resist your charms forever.", Janet remarked teasingly.
"Shut it, Janet!", Hulk growled, not liking what he was hearing from his female teammate.
Just what I need! Janet playing match-maker! About next she'll be picking out places for me and Shego to go on dates or something! Like I would waste my time on that! Or worse yet, they'll try to make me go shopping for stupid clothes! Hulk hate stupid clothes! Stupid Janet! Always making things worse for Hulk! What did I ever do to her?
"Hulk and Sheena sitting in a tree... k-i-s-s-i-n-g... first comes friendship, then comes love, then comes a baby in a baby carriage!", Janet sing-songed teasingly, much to Hulk's discomfort as he glanced at Shego beside him.
"What's wrong, Hulk? Can't stand a little teasing?", Shego questioned, a mischevious yet sultry smile on her face.
"None of your business, Shego.", Hulk growled in response, not even bothering to look at her.
"Aww, I think it's cute when you get angry. It shows me that you actually care.", Shego remarked teasingly, grabbing his right hand and placing it along the left side of her face.
"Whatever.", Hulk replied, pulling his hand out of Shego's grasp while still not daring to look at her.
It was then that Janet got a very good idea of how she could get Hulk to at least somewhat admit that he has hidden feelings and an attraction for Shego. She had to approach it just right, so that Hulk wouldn't notice that he would be going straight into her trap, which she knew that she accomplished. After all, she got Hulk to stand under the mistletoe during last year's Christmas party, so she should be more than capable to pull this off.
"Hulk, can you answer a question for me please?", Janet asked, winking conspiratorially at Shego.
"Fine. What is it?", Hulk responded, turning his attention towards Janet.
"Do you think Sheena is beautiful?", Janet asked, a smirk appearing across her features as Hulk's eyes widened.
Hulk looked around nervously, for Janet's question really caught him off guard, leaving him utterly speechless. Not to mention that Shego was sitting right beside him, with a wicked smirk of amusement on her face, wasn't helping Hulk unease his growing nervousness. He tried to keep his eyes from looking at anything but Shego, but for some reason his eyes eventually settled on her. If there was one thing Hulk disliked, it was the thought that anyone would consider him weak, and it was this reason that he always tried to remain as tough and hard edged as possible.
"Yeah, do you think I'm beautiful, Hulk?", Shego questioned, her emerald eyes locking with his own green hued orbs.
She wouldn't admit it to nobody, but Shego was actually interested in what Hulk actually thought of her. She always regarded herself to be quite gorgeous, but for some strange reason, she was really interested in what Hulk thought about her appearance. Judging from his nervousness, she had a feeling that he considered her to be very beautiful indeed.
Maybe it won't take as long as I thought to get Hulk to fall for me. Still, I'm curious as to what he'll say. I just hope he finds me to be attractive. I know that I'm attracted to him, and who knows, maybe if I play my cards right, we might become something more than just friends. Wait a minute! Where the heck did that thought come from? Stupid emotions and stupid hormones! I can't fall for the Hulk... I can't have feelings for him... I must stick with the plan! Shego reminded herself as she awaited for Hulk's answer.
"Uhhhh... I... I don't know.", Hulk finally answered, quickly looking away.
Janet seen the disappointed look in Shego's eyes, knowing that she was expecting to hear an actual answer from the Hulk. It was then that she knew that she would have to give Hulk the extra push that he needed, for she knew that the Green Goliath has an attraction to Shego in more ways than one. She wasn't going to give up, at least not until Hulk gave both her and Shego a real answer to her question.
Besides, if she's going to be with Hulk, that means that I get a new friend and someone to shop with on our days off! I know Hulk really likes her, but how am I going to get him to admit it? Why does he always have to be so stubborn? I need to think of something and fast. Hmm... Wait a sec... yeah, that will work for sure! Janet thought as a brilliant idea came to her.
"What do you mean you don't know?", Janet demanded, crossing her arms over her chest.
"I don't know.", Hulk replied, trying not to look at either Shego or Janet.
"Oh, I think you do know! Now, come on! Tell Sheena the truth, Hulk!", Janet ordered, not relenting until Hulk gave her his honest opinion.
"What do you want me to say? That she's beautiful? Fine! I think Shego is the most beautiful woman I have ever seen!", Hulk shouted, his eyes becoming wide with shock as he just realized what he just admitted.
"Grrr... Stupid Janet!", Hulk cursed under his breath.
Shego let her smirk turn into a full fledged grin after hearing Hulk admit that she was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen. Oddly enough, Shego felt her heart flutter slightly and had a feeling similar to butterflies in her stomach, which she really couldn't understand. Never in her life had anyone actually admitted that she was beautiful, unless they were threatened into saying so that is, but to hear Hulk sincerely admit it made her really feel like she was indeed beautiful.
"There now, was that so hard to admit?", Janet asked, her usual cheerful smile plastered on her face.
"Shut up, Janet!", Hulk growled.
"Aww, don't worry. I'll give you a gift for the compliment.", Shego said in a seductive voice.
Before Hulk could even react, Shego got up from her seat and proceeded to almost leap into his arms before giving him an affectionate kiss on the cheek. Shego kept her arms wrapped around Hulk's neck, looking lovingly into his eyes, not caring if Janet watched them. Hulk himself couldn't seem to break eye contact with Shego until he heard Janet release a sigh of joy while she looked at them.
"Awww... Love is so beautiful.", Janet said with a dazed smile.
"I really don't need this.", Hulk groaned, taking his right hand and slowly wiping it down his face.
It was exactly at that moment that the Avengers alarm went off, along with their "Avengers Assemble" identity cards. All of the members knew that they had some trouble on their hands, for that was the only time that the alarms and the cards would activate. Hulk was the first out of his seat, lifting Shego and placing her on her feet, but as soon as he did so, Shego clamped onto his right arm. Looking directly into Shego's emerald eyes, Hulk saw a determination that was equal to his own, and he was actually impressed that Shego was once again standing her ground against him.
"What do you think you're doing?", Hulk demanded, looking into Shego's dark emerald green eyes.
"Going with you, Hulk. I'm not letting go of you that easily. Like I said earlier... where you go, I follow... and there is nothing you can say or do that will change my mind.", Shego replied, allowing a triumphant smirk to grace her features.
"No, Shego! You stay here!", Hulk ordered, pointing his index finger at the fiery female.
"I'm going.", Shego stated firmly, crossing her arms across her chest.
Hulk clenched his hands into fists, feeling the rage he knew all so well course through his veins, trying to make him go into a berserker rage. It wasn't that he was angry at Shego, but he was actually concerned for her safety, which strangely enough brought out his most occurring emotion... anger and rage. However, once Hulk gazed at Shego's defiant form, her dark emerald green hued eyes sparkling with determination, he found himself becoming calmed by her presence. Closing his eyes, Hulk let out a heavy sigh before opening his eyes to look directly at Shego, his emerald orbs locking onto her own fiery green eyes.
"Fine!", Hulk answered.
"Okay, I think we all agree that Sheena is coming with us. Hank, Tony, Steve, Clint, Thor... you guys go on ahead and we'll meet you there.", Janet said into her earpiece microphone.
"Where are we going?", Hulk questioned.
"To the docks. HYDRA goons are there stealing some weapons of some kind! Now, let's get movin'!", Janet answered, shrinking in size and flying off.
"Let's go.", Hulk ordered, quickly sprinting out of the kitchen with Shego following right by his side.
Hulk and Shego exited the mansion, walking outside past the gate, with several spectators looking at the two green skinned super beings as they stood on the sidewalk. Hulk looked at Shego, knowing that in order for her to travel with him, he would have to carry her in his arms. Without so much of a warning, Hulk lifted Shego bridal style in his arms once again for the third or fourth time today, getting ready to leap off to their destination. Hulk glanced down to look at Shego's face, noticing the smirk that was there as she looked up lovingly to stare into his eyes.
"A girl could get used to this.", Shego remarked, a smile replacing her smirk.
"Hold on tight, Shego.", Hulk ordered, his legs tensing up for the upcoming leap he was about to perform.
"Whatever you say, Hulk.", Shego replied, wrapping her arms tightly around Hulk's neck.
Before another word could be said, Hulk leaped off with Shego in his arms. Soaring through the air, Shego couldn't help but tighten her grip, her arms clutching his neck as tightly as her strength would allow her as she rested her head against his chest. Hulk glanced down at Shego, who was holding onto him like a drowning person, which caused Hulk to smirk briefly in amusement before returning his attention back to the task at hand.
Shego wouldn't admit it to anyone, but she couldn't help but feel uneasy about soaring through the air, thousands of feet from the earth below. The only thing that seemed to give her comfort was the fact that Hulk was holding her protectively in his arms, with her own arms wrapped tightly around his neck. Still, that didn't mean she liked it any better!
As much as I'm starting to like him, I will never be able to get used to this! Shego mused to herself as she quickly glanced down to the earth below.
Shego was disturbed from her thoughts as Hulk smashed feet first into the earth, creating a huge crater from the devastating impact as dust and debris exploded into the air. They had arrived to the scene of the battle; the Avengers were in an intense battle with the HYDRA forces, who seemed to be after something that was located at the docks. Hulk set Shego down gently on her feet, facing her with a deadly serious expression, for this was as far as she was allowed to go.
"Stay here, Shego!", Hulk ordered.
"Yeah right! And miss out on the action? Don't think so!", Shego argued, igniting her hands in emerald plasma.
"I don't want you getting hurt, Shego!", Hulk replied, his voice as serious as the expression that was etched on his face.
"Aww... you do care about me, don't you, Hulk?", Shego teased, a smirk appearing on her face.
"As a friend, yes! So stay here!", Hulk ordered once again.
"Look, I'm touched that you care about my safety, but I'm a big girl and I can take care of myself!", Shego stated stubbornly.
Hulk turned away, a savage growl escaping his throat, but he refused to argue with Shego anymore. If she wanted to fight, then Hulk wasn't going to bother trying to stop her, not that he could in the first place. Still, it did not ease his worries about Shego getting hurt, for if something would happen to her, he would never be able to forgive himself. But if there was one thing he did know, it was the fact that Shego was a great fighter, as their first encounter between them had proved.
It was a comforting thought, but Hulk still felt concerned for Shego's safety, even if she was capable of defending herself. Hulk and Shego joined the other Avengers in the attack against the HYDRA soldiers and HYDRA Dreadnoughts, which were great in numbers. Three HYDRA war machines, their design similar to the body and the limbs of an octopus, each with a menacing skull, awaited in the waters of the harbor. As the Avengers battled with the HYDRA soldiers and Dreadnoughts, the other HYDRA recruits loaded the weapons onto the ships as fast as they could.
One of these menacing war machine ships has already been loaded completely full of the cargo full of weapons, which it was sent to retrieve, thus allowing it to leave and vanish beneath the waters of the harbor. Seeing that two of the war machines are still docked, Hulk and Shego come to the same conclusion: They had to stop the HYDRA war machines! They turned to face each other, knowing what had to be done.
"Hulk! You take the one on the right and I'll demolish the one on the left!", Shego ordered, getting a smirk and a nod of agreement from the Green Goliath.
Hulk and Shego run towards the war machines, intent on taking them out, ripping through HYDRA Dreadnoughts and soldiers as if they were mere tissue paper! Hulk leaped at the one war machine, ripping through it and causing it to explode, sending metal pieces of the war machine raining down from the sky. Shego races up and leaps atop the skull of the other war machine, powering up her hands for a powerful blast of emerald green plasma.
Unleashing the super charged blast of green plasma energy, the war machine explodes, the shock waves of the explosion sending Shego flying back. Before Shego could crash to the ground, Hulk leaps into the air and catches her, landing on the ground safely in Hulk's protective arms as they both smiled at their handiwork. The other Avengers couldn't help but quickly glance at Hulk and Shego before resuming their battle with the remaining HYDRA forces, all of them realizing that the two really did make a great fighting force on their own.
"We make a great team, don't we, Hulk?", Shego remarked, smirking at her guardian Green Goliath.
"Yeah, now let's smash the rest of these tin cans!", Hulk replied, charging in to finish off the remaining HYDRA Dreadnoughts with Shego following close behind.
Shego and Hulk attacked the HYDRA Dreadnoughts; Shego blasted and incinerated through their armor with her plasma blasts while Hulk crushed one after another with his massive fists. Thor smashed several of the Dreadnoughts one after another with his mystical hammer Mjolnir, while Hank and Janet attacked several others by shrinking down in size and destroying them from the inside out. Using his bow and arrow, Hawkeye shot several of them full with his explosive tipped arrows, causing the Dreadnoughts that were struck by his weapons to explode!
Iron Man used his repulser beams and various other tech to blast several of the Dreadnoughts into a oblivion, which made him feel all that much better, considering that Hydra used his technology to create the Dreadnoughts. Captain America was using his shield to destroy any of the HYDRA Dreadnoughts that would get in his way, leaping at one and decapitating it with his shield before attacking another. So busy was most of the other Avengers were in destroying the HYDRA Dreadnoughts, that they failed to notice the three Dreadnoughts that were aiming their guns at Captain America. However, Shego did notice this, and did the only thing that she could do.
"Cap! Look out behind ya!", Shego shouted, causing Captain America to turn.
Shego's warning couldn't have come at a better time, for the Dreadnoughts began firing their blasts in the direction of Captain America. Captain America managed to turn just in time to use his shield to protect himself from the blasts before hurling it at the three HYDRA Dreadnoughts. Captain America's shield soared at the three Dreadnoughts, decapitating them once the shield connected, causing each of them to explode and fall over.
Within a few more minutes, the remaining Hydra Dreadnoughts were destroyed, reduced to nothing more than scrap metal by the Avengers. Shego stood beside Hulk, who actually acknowledged her presence, giving her a smirk of amusement. Shego couldn't help but smile at Hulk, looping her arms around his right arm as they stood side by side together.
Janet soon joined the two, returning to her normal size before standing directly beside Shego and letting out a joyful sigh as she looked at Hulk and Shego. Janet knew that Hulk and Shego were becoming closer to one another, for ever since she had seen them together, she knew that they were destined to fall in love. It was an innocent and hopeful thought, one that seemed to be happening, despite neither Hulk or Shego realizing it.
"Good job, everyone. We've destroyed all of HYDRA's Dreadnoughts and stopped their goons. I say that's a mission gone successfully, don't you?", Tony Stark remarked.
"Yeah, but we still have no idea of what weapons they have stolen. Not to mention exactly why they stole them in the first place.", Hank informed, transforming back to his regular size.
"We'll worry about that later. For now, let's celebrate and congratulate.", Tony replied.
"Since we're all congratulating each other on our victory, should we not praise Shego for coming to our aid?", Thor suggested.
"Yeah, and by the way, thanks for saving my life. I owe you one, Shego.", Captain America remarked, extending his hand in gratitude to the pale green skinned villainess.
"Don't mention it, Cap.", Shego replied, briefly shaking his hand.
"You and Hulk make quite a team. Would you be interested in joining the team? We'd could always use another member. What do you say, Shego? Are you up for being an Avenger?", Captain America asked, his tone completely serious.
"Aye, she and Hulk make a formidable team. Much like myself and Lady Sif back in my home of Asgard. What say you, Shego? Will you join us?", Thor questioned.
Shego was a bit shocked that she was actually getting an offer to join the Avengers. While she really didn't want to do the whole hero gig again, she couldn't help but feel slightly in awe at the chance that has been offered to her. These were the Avengers, the biggest of the big leagues, Earth's Mightiest Heroes! She glanced at the other Avengers: Thor, Captain America, Iron Man, Wasp, Hawkeye, and Ant-Man/Giant-Man.
Then she turned her attention to the Hulk, who was looking at her, his face clearing showing that he was somewhat interested in what answer she would give. It became clear to Shego that she was succeeding in winning over Hulk's trust and acceptence... not completely, but enough that he may actually consider her a friend. In her brief time with the Avengers, she had already come to think of them as her family, for they at least appreciated her help and accepted who she was, unlike her brothers and her real family.
Well, it seems like I might gain their trust faster than I thought. Still, Hulk is going to be the most difficult of them all, but if I take my time it will all pay off later down the road. Until then, this could be an opportunity to learn more about the Avengers, and spend some more time with Hulk. Shego thought to herself, glancing up lovingly into Hulk's green eyes, causing him to smile nervously before turning away from her gaze. Despite herself and her plan, she enjoyed the thought of spending more time with the Hulk.
"I'll join the Avengers... unofficially. Also, I have one condition. I get a room beside Hulk's room and where he goes... I go too. Do we have a deal, Cap?", Shego responded, resting her head against Hulk's arm.
"I think we can arrange that. Welcome to the team, Shego.", Captain America replied with a warm chuckle.
The other Avengers applauded in response to the joining of their newest member. Hulk refused to applaud, but he did allow a light smile to grace his features as he glanced at Shego who stood beside him. Janet was the most excited out of the team, giving Shego an affectionate hug. Shego had to admit, that for once, she enjoyed being appreciated and applauded by others.
"Welcome to the family, Sheena!", Janet cheered.
Author's Notes
And so begins the first signs of the things to come in our story. Both HYDRA and A.I.M. are working with one of the Hulk's deadliest enemies, not to mention one of my favorite Marvel villains. Indeed, they have work to do, and it isn't anything good. That much I can assure all of you readers! It will be definitely be something that will change the world and affect everyone on the entire planet!
I really enjoyed writing the interaction between Shego and the other Avengers, and I hope all of you liked it, for it was a pleasure creating the dialogue for each of them. As you can tell, Janet/Wasp is going to be Shego's female friend in this story, which fits once you think about Janet's personality in the series. Also, you might have noticed that I allowed a little development in Hulk and Shego's unique relationship. Right now, Hulk tolerates Shego and quite possibly accepts her as a friend, but there is also some hidden feelings that he has for her as well.