I am not feeling too well. My head is pounding like crazy and I'm really nauseous. Without even thinking, I run towards the bathroom that is near my room, open the toilet and puke up whatever was inside me. Turns out I don't have much which made me dry heave. Oh God, this feels absolutely terrible. After a few minutes, I finish suffering from dry heaving and just try to breathe. My headache starts to alleviate a bit.
I then flush the toilet and do my best to get up from the ground. I decide to go look at myself in the mirror to see how bad I look. But first I got to turn the lights on. Once I do, my eyes get blinded instantly. Which made me feel worse. I could tell that I was in front of the mirror, so I stood there and waited for my eyes to adjust.
After a few minutes, my eyes are getting used to the light and now I can see myself. And what I saw, was not what I was expecting.
"AAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!" I scream as a result.
The reason why I'm screaming is because I do not look like I was. Through my reflection, I saw that I was thin, way thin, have a bit of six pack and some lean muscles. Even my black hair was short and neat. My brown eyes still remain the same. I then look closely at the mirror and began to examine my body.
"I don't understand. I was fat yesterday. This has to be a dream" I said to myself
As I look, I notice some scars on my new body. One across my chest and a small one by my abs. One on my left shoulder. Another on my right arm. Then I saw a circular scar on my left leg. It almost looked like a...bullet wound?
"What the fuck?" I asked as my head begins to be in pain again "AAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!"
I scream as this happens while my head starts to show off images. Memories I think. Memories of a childhood I didn't have. Memories of fighting in war. Explains the scars. Memories of struggle, heartbreak, loss. Memories of honor, glory, valor. Memories of heroes. Heroes I know really well. And finally, memories of...love?
So many things I remember and I can't believe it.
"Holy shit" I said in shock as my head begins to feel better.
My name is John Morrison and I'm currently living a new life within a new me. In a world that's literally straight from a comic book. Somehow, I'm in the Marvel Universe. In my old life, I was an orphan. Never knew my parents and I'm sure they didn't want me. Grew up being bullied and despised for little reason. I ate a lot of food to bury the pain even drank a lot of alcohol to make life less depressing. Which is funny given that I was clinically depressed too. Last thing I remember I was leaving a bar, drunker than I usually was and I'm pretty sure I heard a horn coming my way. Then I woke up here.
Guess I died and was given a second chance. But from who and why? Doubtful I'll get my answer anytime soon and, with what I saw in my head, maybe that's a good thing. In this world, I'm a Marine fighter pilot and current Agent of, wait for it, SHIELD. Which is beyond awesome. I'm a new field agent, recently promoted after a mission in Afghanistan. I have a mother and a father that love me and a sister who is a social worker in Connecticut. And that is not even the craziest part of this entire thing.
I'm engaged. Want to know to who?
Go ahead guess
No, seriously guess
Did you guess it?
No? Oh well, might as well tell you.
I'm engaged to Jennifer Walters. That name sound familiar? It should. If you don't know, I'll tell you that too.
Two words: She-Hulk
I'm engaged to the fucking She-Hulk.
THE FUCKING SHE-HULK
HOW THE FUCK DID THAT HAPPEN?
Well let's do a quick explanation on that. It was, maybe, a year ago that I met her. At the time, I was one of SHIELD's low level grunts and I was on break. I decided to go to a bar to relax a little and that's when I saw her. The She-Hulk drinking alone and brushing off any guy that came near her. I figured I risk it and talk to her. She didn't pay me any mind at first but because I was more persistent on than the others, she had no choice but to strike up a conversation. I'm pretty sure she wanted to go 'Hulk Smash' on me but she was more civilized than her cousin.
We seemed to hit it off nicely. We agreed to meet each other again at the bar the next day. We met again and got to know each other more. Granted I had a bit of an advantage at the time as she's an Avenger and a well known lawyer. We started off as friends and then we upgraded to boyfriend and girlfriend after being ambushed by a bunch of Hydra goons. Let's just the say the adrenaline rush from the fight led us to indulge our more carnal natures. Best night of my life based on what I can remember. Damn it, why couldn't I pop in at that time to actually experience that?
Anyway, we started dating right after that and at some point, I asked her to marry me to which she said yes. I honestly don't know how I got so lucky for that to happen. This really is too crazy to believe.
And here I am in my room within the SHIELD helicarrier. Which is fucking awesome. I look around the room and it's small but not too small. Got the bare essentials. A bed, bathroom, closet, and a small desk. I look at the windows next to my bed and see that it's still dark out. Wait, what time was it? I the. look at the clock that was near my bed.
"3:00 am? That's really early" I said as I recall that I have two hours to go before I need to officially wake up "Well since I'm too wired to go back to sleep, might as well do something to pass the time"
So I then take a shower and wash up, get dressed and go to my desk. As soon as I sit down, a holographic computer just pops up.
"Oh that's cool" I said gleefully as I remember my login.
Once I'm in, I look through the SHIELD database on the Avengers. Every member that was in the roster. It also seem I also noticed that it seems that I'm back in time. Reason I think so is because Tony Stark's suit is the Extremis armor. Which was one of my favorites when I read Marvel comics in my world. Also the New Avengers made their debut a couple of days ago. Another thing is that the date is May 1, 2006.
I'm curious on why I'm in 2006 though? What's so important in 2006 that some deity decided to put me here.
"No" I said in realization "The Civil War"
It was the biggest comic event of the time. Nitro destroying Stamford. Pro vs Anti-registration. Iron Man vs Captain America. Heroes choosing sides. But what does it mean for me? What's my role?
I'm cut from my musings as the PA system in my room was activated.
"Attention: New Field Agents are required to gather at the training hall in 10 minutes" the automated voice said.
I look at the time and see that it's about to be five o'clock.
"Guess I better get going. Do not want to start on a bad foot." I said as I get and head to the door.
The door to my room opened up and I exit. I see a lot of people walking around, doing whatever it is they are doing. While I admire the interior of the helicarrier without looking like an idiot. I still can't believe I'm really on the helicarrier. This is just too awesome.
Soon enough, I made it to the training hall. Inside the gigantic room were five other people. Three guys, two women. I had expected more then again, SHIELD has a lot of agents around the world. Then we hear something.
"Ten-Hut" we hear a voice say to which we all formed a line and went into our upright positions.
Then we saw someone walking towards us. A beautiful yet serious woman with short hair wearing a SHIELD uniform with holsters on her side. I recognized who this was immediately.
Commander Maria Hill, Acting Director of SHIELD.
Behind her was the legendary Black Widow. Holy shit, I couldn't believe it.
Stay cool, John. Stay cool.
They walked in front of us and stopped. I instinctively saluted her and the other guys followed in response.
"At ease" she said to us as she began to observe us
"I am Commander Maria Hill, Acting Director of SHIELD. You six are here because you were either promoted or applied to become an Agent. The role of an Agent varies but most often than not they are out in the field, alone with only their wits and their skills. But you are not Agent's yet. You all need to be evaluated before you are able to be of use to me and SHIELD." The Commander then gestures to Black Widow "I imagine this one doesn't need any introductions but in case you don't know, this is Agent Romanoff, the Black Widow. Member of the Avengers and one of the best agents SHIELD has ever had."
We all look at Widow, who just nods her head.
"Now then, let's see who you all are" she said as she takes out a tablet and begins typing away.
"Miguel Gonzalez" she said as she looked at the Hispanic man on the right end of the line "32 years old. Graduate of MIT. Majored in Computer Science and Advanced Mathematics. Clearly a high IQ based on these test scores. Joined the Army in 2002 and became a Army Drone Pilot. Tell me, why do you want to be a field agent?"
Miguel then walked up from the line
"I want to be of service to my country ma'am" Miguel answered
"Is that it?" She asks
"Ma'am?" He asks stumped by the question
"I'm asking if that's really your answer or is there more you wish to say?" Maria asks
"N-No ma'am, that's it" Miguel said
"Very well. You may leave now" Maria said
"Ma'am?" Miguel asked in confusion
"You just proved that you don't have what it takes. Agents may follow orders but they are not blind yes-men. They have their own thoughts and reasonings. If you can't formulate a reason for doing something, then you are not fit to be an Agent. Good day" Maria said dismissively to which Miguel looked a bit sad.
Poor guy must've really wanted to be an Agent. He then salutes Maria and leaves the hall
"Adrian Blake" Maria called out as she looked at the Caucasian man with a goatee who was the fourth person to my right "29 years old. Graduate of NYU. Majored in Criminal Justice. Became a cop in 1999. Transferred to the SHIELD uniform division. According to SHIELD records, displayed a high score in the marksmanship exam. Instructors also commented on your skill in combat. Impressive"
Adrian smirked at this
"Yes ma'am. I'm the best" Adrian boasted which made Maria look at him with an unimpressed look
"Is that so?" Maria said as she looked at Widow, who nodded at her "If that's true, prove it. Let's see if your skills are enough to fight Black Widow"
"Yes ma'am" Adrian said with an excited tone
Him and Widow walk in the middle of the hall and stood a few feet away from each other
"I've dreamt of the day of getting hands on with the Infamous Black Widow. Let's make this session interesting. If I beat you, what do you say of you and I getting to know each other better" Adrian flirted.
God that is so cringy.
"If you think you can handle it" Widow said as she got into her fighting position.
"Baby, I can handle anything" Adrian responded was he too got into his fighting position.
He charges at her with a right haymaker. She ducks and does a quick uppercut to his jaw. This disorients him giving Widow the opening she needed to knee him in the gut. The attack took the air right out of him and then Widow elbowed him in the back which caused Adrian to fall to the ground. He groans in pain as he turns on his back. When he does, Widow places her foot on his chest to keep him down.
"I win" Widow said with a small smile
Damn. That fight took at least ten seconds to happen. She's even better than I remembered.
"Arrogance and overconfidence are not qualities to be had for an Agent. Especially when up against an expert combatant." Maria said "You are dismissed, Mr. Blake"
Widow let her foot off of Adrian's chest and Adrian got up from the floor. He w iped himself off and look ticked for losing and being dismissed. But he left with no complaints. At least none we could hear. Maria then kept looking through the tablet.
"Melissa Cho" Maria said as she looked to the Asian woman to my left "30 years old. Graduate of Oxford University. Majored in International History. Joined the CIA in 1997. Fluent in five languages. Including Arabic and Russian. According to this, you were an exceptional undercover operative. Certainly useful. So tell me, what's the most important thing when being undercover?"
"Becoming the identity that you were assigned and being convincing enough to sell the part" Melissa answered.
"That includes seduction techniques when necessary, correct?" Maria asks
"Yes ma'am" Melissa answered.
"Then let's prove it" Maria said
"Ma'am?" Melissa asked in confusion
"Most often than not, an Agent must use various skills to gain information. Seduction is one of the most effective, especially when preserving one's cover. Display your techniques to Black Widow so as to see if you are as good as what I just read" Maria explained to which Mellisa reluctantly agreed
She then walked seductively towards Widow and got really up close to her. She didn't speak but rather looked into Widow's eyes. As though she was trying to look deep inside her soul. She then began to caress Widow's cheek like a lover would. Melissa then speaks something in Russian to which Widow responds. I have no idea what they are saying. Next thing I know, Melissa began to kiss Widow. It was simple at first and then it began to become more passionate.
I was feeling a bit uncomfortable with this whole display. The two other people next to me were definitely feeling unease too. Maria, on the other hand, didn't seem to care at all.
After a few minutes, they finish kissing. Probably the hottest thing I've seen. Well maybe second to seeing She-Hulk naked but it's definitely up there. Melissa then looked at Maria.
"Was that good?" Melissa asked but then she fell to the ground in less than a second.
"Not bad" Widow answered as she looked at the other two people next to me "Agent Ferguson. Agent Morgan"
Both of them then go to Melissa's lying form and pick her up. Once they do, they then leave the training hall. Maria Hill then looked at me
"Apologies for that. Melissa is suspected of being a Hydra sleeper agent. Steps had to be taken to ensure her capture was as smooth as possible. Which included planting two professional agents to this evaluation. But she was also wrong in her response earlier. While it is important for an Agent to sell the fiction they have when undercover, the most important thing they have is information. The more intel you have, the more likely you are to succeed and, in some cases, survive" Maria explained as she looked at her tablet again.
"John Morrison. You are a celebrity around here. You're engagement to Miss Walters, popularly known as She-Hulk, has spread to the tabloids" Maria said as she showed me the tablet and I'm shown multiple images of me and Jen in various places that we went to when dating.
I shouldn't be surprised that this news would have spread about this. My other self should've prevented himself from being seen but I don't think he would've succeeded if he tried. Maria then looked back at the tablet
"26 years old. Graduated at Iona College. Majored in Criminal Justice and English Literature. Joined the Marines in 2001. Did several tours in Pakistan, Iraq and Iran. Advanced to the rank of Lieutenant before coming to SHIELD as a foot soldier. Became a part of Delta Force. One of SHIELD's best squads. Says here you were recommended to be promoted as a Agent due to your exceptional actions in your last mission in Afghanistan a few months ago. Recommended by Commander Shepherd, no less. A rare thing. The man never recommends anybody for anything. You must be something special" Maria said to me.
"No one special ma'am. Just a soldier doing his duty" I said
"Perhaps. It also said that you saved the remaining members of your SHIELD unit after being ambushed by insurgents using AIM weaponry. Mission objective was to capture the leader of the insurgency, Abdul Shah Sahar. Correct?" She asked
"Yes ma'am" I answered.
"Your report suggested that Sahar knew you were coming. Can you tell me why you thought that?" She asked. Recalling the memory of that event was an easy thing but it was also hard at the same time.
"It was suppose to be a simple infiltration and extraction mission. Nothing we hadn't done before. As soon as we got intel on Sahar's compound, all seven of us got the green light to go in. We were geared and ready for anything but as soon as we got there, Sahar had set up a trap. Our CO, Captain Jacobs, was the first to get hit by enemy fire. We retaliated in kind. We couldn't call for backup due to them jamming our radio transmissions. Two more of my guys were killed. Captain Jacobs died of blood loss. Only four of us left. So I was left no choice in being in command. I ordered my men to hand me all of the sonic grenades we had and told them to retreat while I gave them cover. Once they were at a safe distance I activated the grenades and ran as fast as I could. The combined explosion of all of the grenades created enough force to produce a shockwave that not only destroyed a good portion of the compound but also knock me unconscious when I was still in the blast radius. Woke up three days later in the SHIELD hospital in Germany. I was then told that Sahar had escaped. Our mission was a failure but the rest of my men were able to go home safely. I suspected Sahar was tipped that we were coming due to how quickly it all went down but since I had no evidence to prove it, no one seemed to care to do an investigation. I moved on from it as soon as I went on leave." I explained to her.
I never saw death before but my other self did and it was just terrible. Pretty sure I, or rather he, has some form of PTSD. It's rough remembering the details. Good people died. It shouldn't have happened in the first place.
"Fortunately, I did. I also wondered how that mission failed and reading your report made me even more suspicious. Ever since Nick Fury left, SHIELD has been compromised. Hydra, AIM and God knows who else have infiltrated SHIELD. I've been working with Widow to figure out who and how many. Soon enough, I learned that it was your CO was that leaked the information about the mission to Sahar" Maria said which shocked me
"N-No. That can't be. We worked together, fought together. We were...friends" I said
"Your 'friend' was a traitor from the beginning. Jacob has been feeding classified information to various organizations in exchange for millions of dollars. Which is why our enemies often had the upper hand. But he also accounted for the fact that the Avengers would succeed where we would fail. He was clever up to a point. His greed eventually led to his death and, unfortunately, the death of some of your men. You have my condolences" Maria said to which I nod my head in thanks while also feeling betrayed.
I'm used to betrayal in my old life. In this new one, the other me had never been betrayed. So now I'm re-feeling that sensation. I imagine the other me would've disbelieved this information. But since I'm in his body, I know better.
"So what happens now, ma'am?" I ask
"You seem to be taking the news that you were betrayed by a friend rather well" Maria said to which I had to think quickly for a response
"I am beyond shocked, ma'am. But if I have learned anything over the years its that people make choices. They decide who they wish to be. He made his choice and suffered the consequences. I can only hope that I'll make the right ones and be a good man. At least, be the man my family believes me to be." I explained to her.
The hall fell silent after that. I look to see that Maria and Widow maintain stoic expressions on their faces. Did I say something? Am I going to be fired? Perhaps I should've said something else. I'm soon cut off of my musings as Maria places her hand on my shoulder and has a smirk on her face.
"Good answer. Reminds me of Captain America a bit. Congratulations, you are now an Agent of SHIELD." She said to which I smiled and was internally screaming in excitement.
"Now that you are in, Widow will test your skills. See if there needs to be improvements. When you're done, come meet me in the command deck. I'll have a mission for you by the time you arrive" Maria said as she leaves me and Widow in the Hall.
I then stand in front of her in the middle of the Hall.
"You have a good record on you, Morrison. Praised by even the strictest of men for your aptitude and quick thinking. Your file also says that you are a capable combatant. Let's see how capable" Widow said as she gets into her fighting position.
"I doubt I would fair better than Adrian. I know how dangerous the Black Widow is. But can you do me a favor before we spar?" I ask
"If it's reasonable" she said
"Can you try not to be a bit lenient on me? Rather not embarrass myself in front of an Avenger and top tier SHIELD agent." I said as I also get into my fighting position
Widow then chuckles a bit at this.
"I'll try. But no promises" Widow said
"Better than nothing I guess" I said
We then charged at each other to begin our fight. It was not going to be fun
Three hours later...
I was soon thrown into the ground and groaning in pain. Spent, I don't know how long, fighting Black Widow. She truly is an expert fighter. I barely stood a chance. Granted I was able to get a few hits in but, in the end, she was better. I was about to get up but saw Widow walk towards me. She then offered me her hand which shocked me a bit but I accepted and she helped me up from the ground
"Ow" I said as I was moving my left arm "That was brutal"
"You did good. Not many people could last three hours with me" Widow complimented.
"I'm not sure if that's a good thing. I'm definitely going to be sore in the morning" I said to her.
"You'll live. You do have potential. I look forward to working with you more" Widow said as she offered me her hand.
I then shook her hand in response. Never thought I'd be complimented by Black Widow. This going off to a good start. Next thing I knew, Widow brought me close to her.
"Maybe you'll last a bit longer with me when I'm threw with you" Widow whispered to my ear and then leaves the Hall
Did Black Widow just flirt with me? I was too stunned and aroused by what happened. Holy shit this was awesome.
Wait! Bad Johnny. Bad.
You are engaged.
Think pure thoughts
Think pure thoughts
Once I calmed myself down, I then went to the control room. Didn't take me long to find it. I go inside and see Commander Hill surrounded by computers and a room filled with pilots and other agents.
"Director Hill" I said which caught her attention and I saluted "You asked to see me?"
"Three hours with Black Widow? Not many people last that long with her" she said as she gestured for me to be at ease.
"She said the same thing" I told her.
"Since you are here, I have been thinking about the proper use for you given how your face is plastered on social media. Majority of our Agent's are typically incognito and undercover. Only Black Widow and the late Hawkeye were an exception. It would seem that an exception would have to be made for you. Marrying an Avenger doesn't scream out low profile" Maria explained
"I'm sorry if that affects my ability to be a proper agent" I said to her
"It's fine. Just means that you will have to be more involved with the superhero community. But there is a risk. You have skills but you are no Black Widow or Captain America. She'll train you to become, at least, like her. However in a world filled with Gods, Aliens and Rage monsters, you will need more than skills to keep you from dying. Especially if you are going to be married to the cousin of the Hulk. I'll admit that I don't envy your position" Maria said
"What do you suggest I do?" I ask
"I want you to convince Tony Stark to create you a suit of armor" Maria answered which shocked me.
She wants me to ask the Invincible Iron Man to create a suit of armor for me?
Like what the fuck?
"I—Forgive me ma'am but I assumed that Mr. Stark doesn't share his Iron Man tech. To anyone, SHIELD included. If I recall correctly, the only person to wear a suit of his design is his best friend, James Rhodes. The War Machine. What reason would he have to make me a suit?" I ask
"Because of your relationship with Jennifer Walters" Maria stated.
"I'm not comfortable using my fiancée to get things from her fellow Avengers." I said
"I'm sure you don't but this world is filling up with people that can't be matched. The Avengers act as a counterbalance but they also cause as much damage as the villains they fight. Sometimes worse. SHIELD was created to protect the world from such threats but we are hopelessly and hilariously outgunned. Doesn't matter how much tech we have, we are not enough. So we need a hero of our own to make a difference. A hero works with the law. And I think you are the perfect candidate" Maria explained
"Why me? I'm no one special" I said
Maria then took out her tablet again and loaded up a video. It's a video I recognize. A clip from a documentary about the military. I was briefly featured in that film. Rather my other self was. Maria then played the video.
The video shows my face sitting in front of the interviewer.
"What's your name please?" The interviewer asked
"My name is Lieutenant John Morrison of the United States Marine Corp" I answered
"Lieutenant, can you tell me how you feel about these superheroes that are running around?" The interviewer asked
"I'm not sure what you mean by that question?" I ask
"I'm asking how do you feel that super powered individuals, like the Avengers, essentially being the new fighting force within the United States? Do you feel replaced?" The interviewer asks
"No, I don't feel replaced at all." I said
"Can you expand your answer?" The interviewer asks
"I don't feel replaced because, unlike them, we are regular people that tackles on regular threats. We deal with regular terrorists, insurgents and the occasional third world tyrant. The Avengers deal with threats that we cannot even imagine. They fight the battles that we can't because we are not even remotely equipped to face them. They are. And I'm ok with that" I explained
"You are ok being irrelevant in comparison to them?" The interviewer asks
"We live in a world where nearly everyone has powers. Some people, like the Avengers or the X-Men, use them to help others while others use them to cause harm and chaos. The world is changing. War is changing. While we may have them to fight the hard battles it's up for the rest of us to do our part to ensure that when they finish, they still have a home to come back to. The United States military isn't irrelevant. We are the ones that hold the line. We are the ones that ensure that our borders are safe and secure so that the ideals of America continue to thrive. Especially the ones involving tolerance and acceptance of other people. And on the off chance they fail, we will be their protectors just as they have been ours" I explained
"You said yourself that these individuals fight the battles we can't and now you are saying that if they fail that we would pick up where they left off? You know we would lose if it came to that" The interviewer stated
"Yes we might lose but that won't stop us from fighting the good fight. These divisions between humans, mutants and other super powered individuals are only going to ensure our destruction. Only together do we have a chance. Only together can we succeed. Whatever it takes." I said as I left the interview
Then the video ended.
"Unfortunately, that documentary was terrible but it had some good moments. Your interview being one of them. It's exactly the kind of person I want on SHIELD. The person who believes that even the weakest of us still have a part to play in the protection of our world. It's that kind of person that SHIELD needs. That's why you need to convince Stark to make you a suit. You'll be the symbol of SHIELD and the ideals it upholds. Trust me when I say that it won't be easy to convince Stark. He's not one to do things voluntarily" Maria explained to me
I didn't think she held me in high esteem. Then again, that wasn't me that said those things but my other self before I took over. He was more of a good man than I was in my old life.
"I'm not a hero, ma'am. Never thought of myself as one. I'm just a soldier doing his duty" I said to her
"I interviewed your old units. Both from the Marines and in SHIELD. You know what they told me when I asked them about you?" Maria asks to which I shake my head.
"They said that you are the most loyal and trustworthy guy they knew. They had so many nice things to say about you that they made the image of you being the 'Second Coming' of Captain America. I didn't believe what they said at first but when I looked and met you in person, I can see that there is truth to their praises. Loath that I am to say it, the world needs heroes. SHIELD doesn't have the best reputation right now but maybe you'll be the one that changes that. Plus, I can't have one of my agents dying on me when their fiancée is a well known Avenger. That's why you need something more durable to wear" Maria explained
Wow. Who would've thought that Maria Hill would compliment me so much. Never saw that coming.
"So you're first mission is get Tony Stark to make you a suit. Is that clear?" Maria asked me
"Understood ma'am. I'll see what I can do" I said to her
"Good. Now head out to Stark Tower, you're more than likely to see him there. You have permission to use one of the advanced transport vehicles. Your file also says that you are a pilot. Might as well brush up on your skills. Oh and here's your badge." Maria said as she gave me my official SHIELD badge
"Yes ma'am. Thank you ma'am" I said as I salute her before I leave.
I then go to the hangar bay. Still can't believe I'm in SHIELD and about to ask my favorite hero to give me a suit of armor. Oh man this is just awesome.
I make it to the hangar bay and see various sets of vehicles. Which one should I take.
"Agent Morrison" a voice said which made me turn around as I see that a male African American officer was walking towards me.
"Yes sir" I said
"I'm Sergeant Johnson. Director Hill told me to expect you down here and give you these" Johnson then gave me a keychain with a blue button connected to it.
"Car keys?" I ask to which he chuckled
"Something like that. Press the blue button" he said to which I did and then I hear a engine go on.
I also hear tires speeding up and coming closer. Next thing I see, an advanced motorcycle appears before us and stops.
"Wow" I said
"This is one of SHIELD's newest automatics vehicles. Can go up to 200 mph, has flight capabilities, weapons, camouflage and a some other stuff that are too technical for me to understand. Can give James Bond a run for his money" Johnson said with a smile
"Always wanted to be a International Man of Mystery" I said as I get on the bike and felt how smooth it was
"John Morrison: Authorized User" an automated voice said from the bike.
"Oh that's awesome" I chuckled. Johnson chuckled as well.
"I imagine being engaged to the She-Hulk might make being a Man of Mystery difficult" he said
"Most likely. So you are the caretaker for vehicles like this?" I ask him
"Something like that. I make sure all of the cool toys are not taken and at their prime condition. I'll admit that I'm always tempted to give some of these babies a joyride." He said as he gestures to the other vehicles here
"I can imagine" I said as observe more of the bike
"The red button on the handle is for flight" Johnson said as I press the button.
The bike begins to float slightly in the air as the wheels split apart and activate thrusters. Even the back of the bike changed into a rocket.
"Very cool" I said.
"I know right. Oh almost forgot" Johnson said as he went to the side of the room and took out a helmet "You'll need this. The helmet will protect you from losing your focus in the air. Plus it has a HUD that will surely help you as well as a comm system." Johnson explained as I put on the helmet.
As soon as I put it on, the HUD comes on. I look around and see that it's identifying various items that I looked at.
"Awesome" I said.
"And now you are ready, 007" Johnson said jokingly
"Well done, Q" I said playing along which made Johnson laugh "Seriously though, thanks"
"Anytime. Good luck" he said as he left and opened the hangar doors
I then fly out of the helicarrier with ease thanks to my newly inherited piloting skills.
"WHOOOOOOHOOOOOOO!!" I scream out as I just flying around the air with this bike. "THIS IS AMAZING!!"
I then set the HUD in my helmet to guide me to Stark Tower. Once that was done, I followed the path highlighted.
Stark Tower
"Oh wow" I said as I was drawing closer to Stark Tower in Colombus Circle.
It's as beautiful and magnificent as I remembered it in the comics. And is the headquarters for the Avengers. Even has that Watchtower on the top of it.
"Beautiful isn't it?" A voice asked in my comms which shocks me
"Who's this?" I ask
"Look to your right kid" the voice said to which I did and I was stunned by what I saw.
It was the Invincible Iron Man flying next to me.
"Holy Shit" I said as I'm looking at one of my favorite heroes
"Follow me to the landing pad" he said as he flies ahead of me.
I instantly follow. Doesn't take us long to get to the pad. Iron man lands first while I land next. I deactivate the bike and get off of it. Iron Man then takes off his helmet and reveals his face. He looks exactly how I remembered him.
"So who are you and why should I care?" He asks. I then proceed to take my helmet off and placed it on the bike
"I'm, uh, John Morrison, sir. Agent of SHIELD" I said
"Oh I know you're from SHIELD. That bike and the gear you're wearing was all too obvious." Iron Man said as he began to walk inside the Tower "You coming or what?"
"Oh, uh, yeah." I said as I follow him inside
I was doing my best to not act like a full geek right now. The interior of Stark Tower was everything like I imagined. High tech and just plain awesome. We then went into the elevator and Iron Man pressed the button for the 92nd floor since we were in the 90th floor.
"Morrison right?" He asked me
"Y-Yes sir" I said. Internally berating myself for being nervous
The elevator door opened to the floor and Iron Man left first. I followed.
"Morrison, Morrison, Morrison" he repeats as though he's trying to recollect something.
He then heads to the kitchen and takes out a bottle of water from the fridge. It's a very nice kitchen.
"You want one?" He asks me
"Sure" I said as he tossed me a bottle to which I caught.
"Morrison, Morrison—Oh I know" he said with a 'ah ha' tone "You're the lucky guy that's engaged to Jenny right?"
"Yes sir. That's me" I confirmed
"I apologize for not recognizing you. I tend to prioritize my time with other things like saving the world and all that Jazz" he said as he took a sip of water "It's good to meet you in person but I imagine that this isn't a social call is it?"
"Uh well-" I then get interrupted
"Let me guess, Maria wants you to requisition some of my tech right? Specifically, one of my suits or rather a suit for SHIELD?" Iron Man asks
I was impressed and yet not surprised that he would figure it out.
"Well yes sir" I answered
"Well I'm sorry to say that you came here for nothing. I don't trust anyone, but my friends and team, with my tech. Especially SHIELD." He told me.
"Mr. Stark-" I get interrupted again
"Please "Mr. Stark" is my father. Call me Tony" he said.
If I recall correctly, Howard Stark wasn't his father. But let's not get into that
"Tony, Commander Hill wanted me to ask you to make a suit for me" I told him.
"For you?" He asks "And why would I do that? Giving you a suit is essentially the same as giving SHIELD one. And no offense, I'm not sure I trust you"
Fair enough reasoning to be honest.
"She thinks that because of my engagement with Jen that I would need something extra to help me survive when on missions. Jen has a lot of enemies thanks to being an Avenger and being related to the Hulk. Since I'm not superhuman in any sense of the form, Director Hill believes that having a suit of armor made by you would make it harder for our countless enemies to kill me" I explained.
"Hmmmm" Tony hummed in thought "These are some good points but I'm pretty sure SHIELD agents are trained against dangerous enemies. Not to mention they have a good amount of tech to, maybe, at least mimic some of the capabilities of my suits."
"I'm sure you know better than anyone that SHIELD tech is not as good Stark tech when making armor like yours. Just don't tell anyone I said that" I told him which made Tony smile.
"Your secret is safe with me" he said
"Plus I'm also currently being trained by Black Widow" I said which intrigued Tony
"Really? Wow I'm a bit jealous of you. What's that like?" He asked
"Well since I'm just starting, she had me spar with her to see how long I would last" I said
"Oh I'm sure she did" Tony said with a smile "So how long did you last with her?"
Tony then took a sip of his water
"About three hours" I said
Tony then spit out his water
"Three hours?" Tony asks with shock "Damn. There aren't many people who could last that long with her"
"I've been told" I said
"Well that still adds to my point that you or SHIELD don't need an Iron Man suit." Tony said
"You're probably right. But I want this suit for my own reasons" I said to him
"Oh?" He asked "And what would be those reasons?"
"When I first heard of you guys, the Avengers, I thought to myself "Wow, who would've thought that a group of remarkable people could work together to save the world". I mean you guys are just all around amazing in every sense of the world. You all inspired a lot of people because you showed us it was possible to become better. I've always wanted to be a hero. Well-known and loved but I don't have powers, I'm not a genius and I'm definitely not a super soldier. And I was fine with that. I was content on being a soldier fighting for this country while you guys fought for the world. I accepted being a nobody because that's what I am." I explained and I saw Tony listen intently
"Then I met Jen. The famous She-Hulk. My first encounter with a hero. I couldn't believe it. She didn't pay me mind at first but I didn't stop trying to talk to her. Eventually I got lucky. One thing led to another and here we are. Engaged and in love. Even to this day, I can't believe I'm engaged to probably the most beautiful and kind person in the planet. And while I love that, I'm concerned. I'm terrified of not being by her side when she's out there fighting some supervillain that wants to kill her. I want to be there with her. Fighting side by side. Sure, I have the natural skills of being a soldier, a marksman and a decent fighter but I'm nothing compared to her or any of you. Why do I want a suit like yours? Because I'm tired of losing people. I failed saving good people when I was in the Middle East. And yet they call me a hero here at home. I don't have the right to claim that title. But maybe with a suit like yours I have a chance to be the hero my family thinks I am. Maybe it's naive or selfish but if I have the opportunity to save a life, then I have to take it." I explained
"I don't blame you for distrusting SHIELD given what's happened. I'll understand if you don't want to agree to do this and I understand that you don't trust me. But all I ever wanted to do was save lives. At least give me the chance to try" I finished.
Tony looked at me and took all what I said in. I'm not sure if he would actually do this. It's likely that he won't. But I had to try at least. I prepare myself to leave until...
"Alright" Tony said which shocked me
"Wait what?" I ask not sure I heard that right.
"I said that I'll make you a suit" Tony reiterated
"But...I thought you said that you don't trust SHIELD with your tech?" I asked.
"Oh I do. But your little speech, which was not exactly Oscar worthy but still not bad, gave me some insight on the type of guy you are. Along with this" Tony said as a holographic screen appeared before us.
It showed various pictures of me when I was in the Marines as well as some other pictures throughout my life. I then saw a familiar logo on the bottom right corner.
"This...This is a SHIELD classified personnel file. How did you-"
"I hacked the Pentagon on a dare when I was ten. You think I can't hack into SHIELD's private servers?" Tony asks
I'm really not surprised at this.
"You really do have an impressive record. Good grades in school. Lived a humble life by the looks of it. Lot of recommendations from your superiors. Oh and flew around 60 missions. Not bad. A true patriot. I'm sure Rhodey and Cap would love to trade stories with you." Tony said to me
"If I ever meet them, then it will be my pleasure" I said
"Oh I'm sure at some point we can arrange introductions" Tony said as he deactivated the images "So yeah I'll make you a suit. I'm sure if I don't, someone in SHIELD is going to make a cheap knockoff and could get you killed when you're out doing some James Bond work. If Jenny is anything like her cousin, I'm confident SHIELD will cease to exist"
"There is a likelihood that she would do that" I agreed knowing full well how powerful She-Hulk is
"Exactly. So go tell Maria that you'll be getting a bonafide Iron Man suit sometime soon." Tony said to me
"Uh...ok." I said as I go leave but I stop "What's the catch?"
"What makes you think there's a catch?" Tony asks me
"There's always a catch." I said
"Who do you think I am?" He asks
"Genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist" I answer
"I...can't refute that" Tony said "Just go before I change my mind"
"Alright. And...thanks" I said as I leave
Once I was gone, Tony then re-put up the files he had. Observing and analyzing more on the person he just met.
"Are you sure about this, sir?" Jarvis, his butler, asks
Tony jumped up in fright over his surprise appearance
"Jesus, Jarvis. You trying to give me a heart attack? Which would be an achievement given what my heart is made of now" Tony said to him
"My apologies, sir. I just heard a bit of the conversation between you and the young man. Are you sure that you wish to make a suit for him?" Jarvis asks
Tony then looks back at the file of John Morrison.
"I think he's a pretty decent guy. A war hero that doesn't think he's a hero. Maybe he's trustworthy, maybe he's not but he's engaged to She-Hulk and I trust her. If she's with him, then I have to believe that he's good enough. Am I sure? Not really. But I guess, at some point, we all need a leap of faith that things will work out" Tony explained
"I hope you are right about this sir" Jarvis said
"Me too, Jarvis. Me too" Tony said in hope that he's making the right choice.
Meanwhile, I was back at the landing pad and started to fly away from the Tower. I then gave a call to the Commander.
"Were you successful, Agent Morrison?" Maria asks me
"Yes ma'am, I was" I answered.
"Impressive. I must say that I am shocked. I really didn't think Stark would agree" Maria said
"Neither did I. Said he'll get it done soon." I said
"Good work. Come back to the Helicarrier, Widow wants you back in the training hall. Said she has an idea on how to improve your fighting skills" Maria said
"Understood ma'am. Morrison out" I said as I flew back to the Helicarrier.
In the Training Hall...
I walked into the hall and saw Black Widow waiting for me.
"Welcome, Agent Morrison. Are you ready for what comes next?" Widow asks
"Would you think less of me if I said no?" I ask which makes her chuckle
"I would think that you are being honest. Very rare trait within our line of work" Widow answered
"That is a fair point" I said
"So..." Widow then got into her fighting position "Shall we begin?"
"Do I have a choice?" I ask as I also get into a fighting position
"No" Widow said as she charged right at me
Eight Hours Later...
I slowly walk back in my room as my whole body is in immense pain. Widow's training was hell. I have never felt this much pain since...well ever. She was definitely a super soldier in her own right. She never tired and was more than willing to have kept on going. Fortunately, the Commander gave us a break for lunch before I suffered again with further training. Then Widow suggested to take the rest of the day to recuperate. Music to my ears.
Every muscle in my body is on fire. Every step I take irritates everything to extraordinary levels. I was luckily able to get into the shower with little difficulty. The heat from the water was able to alleviate a bit of the pain but not much.
Then I walked to my bed and lied down there doing my best not too move. But I was thinking about Jen. Thinking about calling her. She's probably working right now. It's strange that I'm thinking of someone I'm engaged to and she's a comic book character but she's real. Everyone is real. Still can't believe it.
"Fuck it" I said as I take out my phone from my pocket and dial her number.
I put the phone in my ear and let it ring.
I wait for a few minutes as it rings. Then I hear the phone seeming to pick up on the other line.
"Hey you" Jen's voice said which made me smile
"Hey babe. How's your day going?" I ask
We then began to talk for the rest of the day. I couldn't help but love her voice over the phone as we just simply talked.
Hey guys been a while. I know sorry for the lateness and abrupt silence. This whole quarantine business is ridiculous and I've been making sure is doing ok.
So this is a new story I've been working on. Hope you guys would like. Currently working on the second chapter. Like I said before I'm also thinking of rebooting Iron Life. Rewriting the chapters to make it like what most of you hoped. I also have plans for other stories especially involving the DCAMU after watching Apokolips War. Man that was tough to watch but still a great movie.
Definitely I'll be trying my best to update Webbed Warrior since it takes place in said universe.
Well anyway, hope you guys like the story. Let me know on the review section. This is me, signing out.