Disclaimer: All things that are in, associated with, or based off of Marvel or the MCU in any way are NOT mine!

Chapter Three: In Remembrance

EviePOV

"So let me get this straight, you were sleeping in a room that sounds as though it was fit for a princess and then you were in the middle of some Shakespearean battle?"

"I know it sounds crazy, Howard," Evie said. "But what else could it be?"

"You were zapped with raw plasma-like energy as well as that from your own powers," Howard deadpanned. "Anyone's brain would be a bit messed up from that."

"These can't be just random images in my head, though," Evie argued as she sat back in her chair, wincing a little as she rested her bandaged head against the cushion. "They felt so real."

"That's how it usually happens, Evie," Howard said gently. "You said that you sometimes have strange dreams, right? Maybe that blow to your head just intensified them while you were unconscious. It's not uncommon."

"But why those specific images?" Evie wondered, her drive slowly fading as she digested the logic in her friend's words. "It doesn't make any sense."

"Most things don't," Howard stated with a shrug. "We have no idea what it is we're working with here with this cube, and it's probably best if we do all we can to learn more about it before exposing it to something like that again. I'll take it back to SHIELD and keep it locked up in the one of the guarded storage containers for now. Don't let these hallucinations bother you, Mon Cherie, it'll only give you a bigger headache than you already have. I know that you can heal pretty quickly, but I still want you to take the rest of the day off, all right?"

Evie tried to insist that she was doing fine, but Howard was firm about his decision, even going so far as to order her as her boss to head on home to get some rest. Therefore, when she was clear to be released from the med bay an hour later, she left SI and started making her way home. The entire ride included taking a train and a bus, which dropped Evie off roughly four blocks away from her apartment, but she didn't mind. She liked the short walk, it gave her some time to think and clear her head if there was anything troubling her. This incident with the Tessaract was definitely mind-boggling to her and no matter how much she tried to listen to Howard's advice and just let it go, there was still something nagging at the back of her mind the whole time she was on the train and for most of the bus ride. The details were already escaping her mind, more specifically the faces of the man and woman she had seen. She couldn't explain it, but there was just something about them that seemed so...familiar.

"I know them," Evie whispered to herself. "How do I know them?"

Maybe Howard's right, and my mind is just playing tricks on me. Sighing softly to herself, Evie finally decided to let it be for now, since her head was beginning to throb again by the time she got off the bus and started walking the rest of the way home. She would have many strange dreams as a child, and still had them on occasion so that's more than likely what happened when she was knocked unconscious. Waking up in a gold room with a queen sitting next to her and having a fierce warrior-type stranger urging her to flee to safety from an ongoing battle? The thought alone would probably have her sanity tested and she would be put into an asylum. So she simply ignored it as she walked up the steps to the building, looking forward to a hot cup of tea and, hopefully, a stress-free morning with Glenn and Frank to keep her company.

FriggaPOV

Asgard, 1950

"Again."

Frigga watched on with a smile as her eldest son sparred with his instructor out in the training fields, moving with stealth and power as they both used their spears and shields, going at one another with everything they had. She could feel the fierce determination the Asgardian prince held, focusing intently on his opponent and fighting with the spirit of a great warrior. The two of them charged, dodged and ducked when necessary and at one point, Gundil was able to knock Thor's shield from his hand. This didn't deter him, however, for he strode forward with a few precise strikes that had Gundil lose his solid stance, and with a quick swipe of his foot, Thor managed to send Gundil onto his back on the grass and the instructor barely had time to blink before Thor held the tip of his spear above him, aimed directly for the throat. Both men stared each other down for a moment, breathing heavily before Thor retracted his weapon, grinning down at Gundil. The older man returned it and took the hand that Thor offered him, getting back to his feet and clapping him on the shoulder.

"Very good, your highness," Gundil praised. "This was an excellent spar."

"Indeed it was," Thor replied. "Under your guidance, soon there will be none who can oppose me."

"I would not be surprised," Gundil said. "That will be enough for today, but we shall meet again here at sunrise tomorrow."

"Until then," Thor agreed before the two shook hands and parted. Catching sight of her standing off to the side of the field, Thor quickly put away his weapons and jogged over to meet Frigga, his grin never leaving his face.

"Mother," he greeted happily. "Did you see? I was able to beat Gundil in mere minutes this time."

"You are growing much stronger, my son," Frigga said as she tenderly stroked Thor's cheek, giving him a warm smile. "You will become a powerful warrior someday, just like your father."

"Do you think he will finally allow me to wield Mjølnir soon?"

"Only when you are ready, and he deems you worthy to become king," Frigga reminded him.

"But when will that be? I've fought in numerous battles and have passed every test given," Thor said. "I am one of the strongest there is, and I can make sure to keep order in the realms."

"Patience, my love," Frigga told him, taking his arm and steering him back towards the palace, with her ladies in waiting trailing behind them. "Come, walk with me. The summer days are becoming few and far in between, we must take advantage of it."

Frigga and Thor walked along the palace grounds for a long while afterwards, with Thor doing most of the talking, expressing his eagerness at becoming the future king and all the things he will accomplish. Frigga listened as he spoke, feeling proud of the powerful fighter he has become, but also slightly worried as well. As much as she admired Thor for valuing strength, loyalty and courage, she had to admit she was concerned about his ego. With every spar he passed and every fight he won, his won self confidence grew and grew, threatening to transform into arrogance. Odin was doing his best to groom Thor into a good king, but Frigga couldn't help but worry about the future of her dear son if eh didn't start to understand what is most important and rid himself the urge to pick fights because one day it will not end well for him. But there was still time for him, and Frigga could only hope that he will understand soon. As they continued walking, they found themselves entering the gardens, walking past the many blossomed flowers, and at one point Thor picked a bright pink rose to give to her. It was easy for Frigga to loose track of the time whenever she spent time with either of her sons, although after a while longer, Thor came to a sudden stop, making her cease her movements as well. She was surprised to see that Thor's smile had quickly faded and he shifted uncomfortably where he stood. Frigga followed his eyesight to see that he was gazing upon a particular archway that led into one of the larger clearings in the gardens, this one covered with lovely white carnations. Understanding dawned upon her and Frigga looked sadly at her son.

"Thor..."

"Perhaps we should head back to the palace," he suggested, his voice a tad bit hoarse as he diverted his eyes away from the archway. "It must be getting close to supper, Father will be displeased if I'm late again."

"Thor," Frigga said, keeping a firm hand on his arm when he tried to turn them around. "When was the last time you came to visit? Tell me the truth."

Thor was silent, his frown giving Frigga the answer she expected, but she really couldn't blame him. This place in the gardens was a very bittersweet location, one none in her family ventured to very often at all, especially around this time of the year. It was a painful time, and as much as it hurt Frigga to come to this place, she couldn't bear to ever give herself the chance to forget. Taking a quiet breath, she gently pulled Thor along through the Archway, the God of Thunder hardly putting up a resistance. They entered the clearing that was paved with grass and smooth stones, with roses of all different colors surrounding them, and small torches lit with flickers of the eternal flames, forever burning brightly. In the very center of this clearing was a marvelous fountain with was spurting out crystal clear water into the pool below, which was filled with water lilies. The statue that was carved out of flawless marble in the middle of the fountain was that of a child. A young, beautiful little girl with flowing hair and a smile that could outshine the rays of the sun. She stood with her hands clasped in front of her, her expression implying she was containing childish giggles to some sort of joke that only she knew, and was bursting to tell.

The mere sight of the statue was enough to create a painful tug on Frigga's heart but she kept guiding her and Thor forward until the reached the edge of the fountain, the two of them looking up in silence at the statue. There was a golden plate at the base of it, glinting in the sunlight and reading words that never failed to leave an impact on Frigga.

In Remembrance of Cephina

Beloved Princess

In just three days time, it would be fifty-seven years that Frigga lost her precious daughter along with Odin, and that Thor and Loki lost their little sister. Not a day went by where she didn't think of her, and the anniversary was a time they all struggled to get through. They all handled it in their own way, with Thor burying himself in his sparring practices or visiting the tavern with his closest friends, while Loki took it upon himself to get lost in the library, and Odin always had an excuse to keep himself busy during the day. Frigga, on the other hand, always made sure to come and visit the gardens, which had always been Cephina's favorite place to visit and play in all of Asgard. This particular clearing held a special memory for the royal family, as it was the very same one that the former King of Algorine had landed in after the destruction of Sepora, bringing Cephina into their lives so many years ago. Despite how much she still grieved, Frigga came to this place to be reminded of her sweet daughter and the time they had together. Even though they both tried to hide it to the best of their abilities, she could see right through her two sons-they were hurting just as badly, possibly even more. Cephina adored them both and looked up to them, and it wasn't uncommon for her to spend her days shadowing one or the other. Thor especially usually couldn't bring himself to come to the gardens, his heart tremendously heavy with sadness as well as-to Frigga's dismay-guilt.

"It's my fault," Thor whispered, as though tuning in to her current thoughts, never taking his eyes off of the statue. "It's my fault she is gone."

"Thor, you cannot keep doing this to yourself," Frigga said softly, rubbing his arm in a comforting manner. "You are not at fault for what had happened."

"I should have seen her," Thor argued and Frigga felt her heart sink when she caught sight of how glossy his eyes had become. "I should have made sure she was safe before-before I..."

"You couldn't have known she was there," Frigga stated firmly. "Loki and your father would have perished had you not acted when you did, and Cephina...she wouldn't have seen the Tessaract in her haste to save them as well. You are not responsible."

"Not fully, perhaps," Thor murmured, finally removing his eyes away from his sister's monument to stare at the ground. "If I had just acted sooner, or stopped to think she that she hadn't stayed in the woods...I was supposed to protect her, Mother. But I failed her."

"No," Frigga countered, taking Thor's face in her hands and making him look at her. "You, your father and brother did everything in your power to save her, and don't think for a moment that I will hate you for that. The ones to blame are the monsters who took her from us."

"I wish I had annihilated them the way I saw fit," Thor muttered darkly, his blue eyes narrowing and Frigga could have sworn she saw a tiny spark of electricity in them. "Their end came much too swift."

"There will be none of that," Frigga told him, placing her hands on his shoulders and giving him a stern look. "This is a time to honor your sister's memory, not drown ourselves in thoughts of vengeance that had already come to pass. What do you think she would want you to do?"

"She would want me to stop to look at her flowers," Thor recalled, his expression softening. "And to listen to the music."

"And listen we shall," Frigga confirmed with a loving smile, remembering just how much their little Cephina loved music. "Every note that is played and every blossomed flower in this garden is a part of her that we still have. We cannot let ourselves forget that."

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Supper that night was a pleasant affair. Thor and Odin spoke of the sparring that took place today and Thor listened as his father spoke of ancient battles past, and of Asgard during his own father's rule. In turn, Loki talked with Frigga of his recent improvements in the new magic technique she had been teaching him, and she listened with a deep sense of pride. Loki had come so far in his lessons since the day she started teaching him Asgardian magic, and she knew he would become a great sorcerer one day. There was not very much left that she had to teach him in that regard, but he always had a thirst for knowledge, wanting to learn as much as he could. She would often see him with new books in his hand as he walked the halls of the palace, that is, whenever he was not causing mischief. Magic was the one thing that made him different from Thor and Odin, and Frigga wanted him to excel in his own special talent that made him stand out instead of feeling as though he were stuck in Thor's shadow. Frigga loved her sons with everything she had, but even she could see the sadness in Loki's eyes sometimes when Thor's accomplishments or future rule as king was discussed.

Although, there were times when Loki and Thor were quite the pair, especially when they were just young boys. They would always wander off on their own adventure of sorts, exploring the world with bright, curious eyes and more often than not, getting into trouble. But Frigga had to admit it was their curiosity that caused them to find Cephina in the first place, so it definitely came in handy. While she was growing up, Thor and Loki seemed to make a silent promise to be her protectors and teachers, bringing her along on their little expeditions until they were old enough to finally begin their own lessons. Along with taking basic fighting classes with Loki under Gundil's instruction, Thor had to begin preparing for the day that he would be crowned king of Asgard, and Frigga took it upon herself to start Loki's training in the magic arts. Even during this period were their time was consumed by their royal duties, there was always a spare moment in the day that they would spend with their cherished sister, never failing to make her laugh and smile.

Some time after supper had ended, Frigga found herself walking along the open halls alone, enjoying a nice stroll before she retired for the night and listening to the songs of the nightingales. It was a peaceful night, with a gentle breeze and the crescent moon just visible behind the billowy clouds. As Frigga moved through the north wing of the palace, she rounded a corner and noticed the that only door in this hall was cracked open, with soft light spilling from inside. The queen paused in her movements, her eyebrows furrowing in puzzlement. This room was never opened, and it was rare for anyone to step inside, herself included. For all the times she's walked in this wing, she always had been careful to avoid it for many years, only recently finding the courage to do it. Just then, she heard a soft, slow tune play from inside and she suddenly had a good idea of who just might be in the room. Frigga made her way over to the door and hesitated only for a brief moment before she opened it slowly.

This room was not as big as others in the palace, but it was no less spectacular and beautiful. Frigga herself had organized the layout of it, and it was decorated to fit the needs of a princess. Gold and ivory colors were seen from one corner to the other, making the entire space truly a sight to behold when the windows were open and the sunlight hit them at just the right time of day, making everything shine. There was a small stone pool in the center of the room, underneath a chandelier, with pink flower petals floating on the surface along with lily pads that held small candles. There was comfortable furniture set up here and there, with a chaise and armchair pulled up in front of an empty fireplace, and there were also several shelves filled with books of all shapes and sizes. A changing area was placed along the left hand corner, where there was a small, blue and gold dress hanging over the screen, still waiting to be worn after all this time. Toys, of course, were strung about, but all the important ones were placed at the foot of a large bed with ocean blue blankets made of the finest material, set up next to a huge double door that led out onto a balcony.

Sitting on the bed was Loki, still dressed in his formal attire and his eyes closed and he played a quiet, familiar tune on a small wooden flute. For a moment, Frigga just stood silently and listened, her hands clasped in front of her and her eyes threatening to well with tears. She kept on watching her son play until the last note of the song faded away and he lowered the flute away from from his mouth, placing it in his lap.

"Hello, Mother," he said as he opened his eyes, lifting his head to look at her. Frigga just smiled at Loki while she made her way over to him, walking around the pool and up the steps leading to the bed, taking a seat right next to him. Loki brought his attention back to the flute, twirling it between his fingers.

"Do you remember when you made this for her?" Frigga asked him.

"Of course I do," Loki replied, the corners of his lips lifting up into a smile. "Father wanted to have a feast to celebrate her birthday, we all wanted it to be a surprise. We pretended to be busy the whole day so she wouldn't notice, and she thought we all forgot. She hid away in my room but ruined my favorite book you gave me when she tried to take it to read."

Loki's eyes softened a great deal at this point, and his smile faded.

"She was so scared," he muttered. "Scared that I wouldn't love her anymore, that I would hate her. As if there is anything in this entire realm that would make me hate her. She refused to come out of her room, she wouldn't listen to anyone."

"Except you," Frigga reminded. "You were able to reassure her, and comfort her. You gave her the flute-"

"And she wouldn't stop playing it for the rest of the night, well past when the feast ended," Loki chuckled before his expression sobered again. "If I had known that would have been her last birthday feast with us..."

"No, son," Frigga said, placing her hand on top of his. "I've told this to Thor and I will say it to you as well. You are not to blame for what happened. None of us could have been prepared for that."

"She was right there, Mother," Loki whispered, his voice sounding strained as his green eyes became hard. "She was right there. And I couldn't-I wasn't strong enough. She's gone because she was trying to protect me, when I was the one who was supposed to make sure she was safe."

"You did everything in your power to save her that day," Frigga said. "As did you father and brother. We lost her, Loki, and we have to live with that reality every day for the rest of our lives. But take comfort in the fact that her last moments were lived trying to save those she loved. She treasured you beyond words, and as long as you keep that memory inside your heart, she will never truly gone."

Loki was quiet and didn't respond, but Frigga really didn't expect him to. Even though he tried so hard to hide it, his pain over losing Cephina was still raw, and it saddened Frigga greatly to see it eat away at him. For a few minutes they just sat there together in silence, each of them lost in their own thoughts until Frigga spoke up.

"Play it again?" she requested gently. "Play her song for me?"

Loki agreed with a nod and brought the flute to his lips, once again playing the lovely song that always made Frigga cry as well as smile. She closed her eyes as she leaned her head on Loki's shoulder, a single tear slipping out.

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EviePOV

November 23rd, 1950

Long Island, New York

The soft music of the flute floated through Evie's living room, the sound echoing nicely in her ears as she recited a pretty tune that she has had stuck in her head for many years, ever since she was a little girl. It was one of her absolute favorite things to play, especially when she wasn't feeling the greatest. When she had learned how to write music, she would constantly hum the notes to herself until she was able to write it all done, although to her never-ending frustration, it always felt unfinished, like she didn't have the entire song played out yet. Almost as if there was a missing piece. Whenever she reached that point in the song, she would create a nice end to it in the spur of the moment, but it didn't feel right. She would usually either start over again or put it away so she could take out her violin instead. But for today, she just kept playing the flute, the music sounding as smooth as wind chimes to her. Outside, there was a cold rain that had started to fall from the gray storm clouds above, and she could hear the threat of thunder in the far distance. This kind of weather never bothered her, though. In fact, Evie took great comfort in the sounds of thunder and lightning, and it was perfect to read a good book, or in this case, play music.

At that moment, Evie's practice was interrupted by the phone ringing. She carefully placed her flute back inside its case before walking over to answer the phone.

"Hello?"

"Christmas gala, fundraiser for the troops, and auction, are you in or out?" Howard shot off instantly, his mouth going a million miles a minute.

"Wait, what?" Evie asked in confusion. "A gala?"

"Yes," Howard confirmed. "On Christmas Eve, Stark Industries is hosting a holiday party to act as a fundraiser and charity for all the soldiers in Korea. There will be an auction too, and profits will go towards supplies for the army. I'm hosting it at the Peninsula Theater, all the top dogs are going to attend."

"And you want me to go?"

"Of course, who else am I gonna dance with?"

"How about Jarvis?" Evie suggested with a teasing grin.

"As talented as the man is at the fox trot, I don't think he would be very thrilled," Howard answered without missing a beat.

"You know how I feel about dancing," Evie reminded him.

"Well, if anything just go to keep Peggy some company," Howard said. "Pleeeeaassee?"

All Evie had to do was picture Howard's big brown eyes staring at her and it wasn't too hard for her to be convinced to go. After promising that she would be there and also confirming their plans for Thanksgiving-which was to be held at Howard's mansion-they said their goodbyes and Evie had to shake her head. Howard Stark was lucky she loved him so much. She did understand his reasoning though-ever since the war broke out in Korea last summer, hundred of U.S soldiers had been shipped off to South Korea to assist in the fight. More men and young boys were being drafted or enlisting to fight, and the idea of it all made Evie sick to her stomach. They all just barely finished with the last war and now they're being pulled right back into another! So many more families are going to be devastated when their sons, husbands, and brothers end up coming home in a coffin, if they are even lucky enough to have a body to bury. The whole thing made Evie angry as well as worried. The previous war lasted six years. How long was thing one going to be?

Evie sighed heavily as she went into the kitchen to make herself a cup to tea to calm her nerves. This gala that Howard's hosting may just be the right kind of event that will restore hope in people's hearts. After all, what would any of them have, if not hope? Evie went without hope for the longest time, and things certainly looked brighter when she found it again. Just as Evie started pouring her tea into her cup, the serenity inside her apartment was suddenly broken the a loud, rapid thumping on her door that made her jump a little in surprise. Her senses immediately became alert and aware at the noise and she placed her cup down on the table before she quickly and silently opened one of her cabinets, pulled out the coffee can and took out the pistol that she had hidden inside. Making sure it was loaded, she held it steadily in her hands as she made her way over towards her front door, slowing down to a halt right outside of it.

"Who's there?" she called, keeping her voice even and her grip tight.

"Evie, it's me," Peggy's voice came from the other side. "Please, let me in."

Evie let out the breath she didn't even know she was holding and relaxed her posture, dropping the hand holding her gun to her side and unlocking her door with the other. The very second Evie opened the door, she knew something was wrong-Peggy stood in the threshold completely soaked, her hair plastered to her head and her makeup running down her face. She was shivering, and she looked pained, with tears leaking from her brown eyes. Without hesitation, Evie placed the gun on a nearby table and took Peggy's hand, gently pulling her inside. Once the door was locked again, she turned to face her friend with concern shining in her eyes.

"Peggy, what's wrong? What happened?" she asked.

"It's-it's Will," Peggy gasped, trying to get her words out through her tears. Evie's heart nearly came to a halt, her face falling and a feeling of terrible dread exploding inside her stomach. All that was running through her head in that moment was, oh please God, don't let Peggy go through this too!

"What about Will?" Evie pressed. "Is he hurt?"

"Not yet," Peggy replied, meeting Evie's eyes with her own glossy one. "He just told me today that he has enlisted! He's going to Korea!"

For a brief moment Evie was stumped, and she wasn't sure what to say to this shocking news. But after a minute, she wordlessly drew Peggy in for a hug and let the woman cry into her shoulder, not even caring that her clothes were getting wet in the process. She just held Peggy close and rubbed her back, trying to provide as much comfort as she could while trying to work it all out in her head. Will has enlisted...he's going to war in Korea. It was times like these where Evie could feel her faith be severely tested. It feels like Peggy and Will were married only yesterday and now he was going to be shipped off overseas? How could this be happening? Evie guided Peggy over to the sofa and took her coat, hastily hanging it close to the heater to dry and draped a blanket over her shoulders before heading back into the kitchen to fix up another cup of tea. Ten minutes later, both women were sitting together sipping on jasmine tea, with Evie lending an ear while Peggy calmed down a little and spoke of what had happened earlier this morning when Will received the telegram informing him of him being drafted for military service.

"And there's nothing that can be done," Peggy said, her voice broken as she sniffed, wiping at her eyes.

"But he's already served in the last war, they can't expect him to do another one," Evie said. "Couldn't you put a stop to this? You're a founding member of SHIELD, surely there has to be some strings you can pull."

"Not when it comes to this, and not without a full exposure of the agency. And trust me, I have already tried, but by the time I make all the right phone calls and gather the right people, it will be too late. They say they need some veterans who have the required experience, and that it would be an honor to help train all the new recruits," Peggy said bitterly. "Which is nothing but them pulling lies right out of their arse! Will hadn't been in the army for very long at all before he was injured enough to be sent home, and since he's been fully recovered for years with no permanent damage, they want him to jump right back in, especially since h has completed any required training or schooling. But I just can't stand the fact that he actually signed up for this again! He's willingly putting in life on the line for a second time like an idiot! He says he has no right to fight to stay home when there are so many others who would still be marching to their potential deaths in his place. With him receiving a promotion, he says he can at least help them have a chance at making it out alive. I swear, it was almost as if I was talking to..."

"To Captain America," Evie finished softly, not being able to hold back a tiny smile at the irony. "I supposed being rescued by Steve must have rubbed off on him, huh?"

"Apparently," Peggy sniffed. "But still, I can't believe he would just accept this without thinking about his family, and what will happen to us if something happens to him."

"Wait," Evie said, slowly placing her cup and saucer onto the coffee table and never taking her eyes off of Peggy. "Did you just say us?"

Peggy shifted a little on the sofa, suddenly looking sheepish and something clicked in Evie's head, making her eyes widen as she brought her gaze down to Peggy's stomach.

Well, this definitely makes sense. Peggy's usually good at keeping her emotions in check, she doesn't normally break down like this, not unless...

"You're pregnant," Evie whispered, her smile beginning to grow on her face. "How far along?"

"Six weeks, give or take," Peggy answered. "I confirmed it at the doctor's just a few days ago, I told Will right away."

"Oh Peggy, that's wonderful news!" Evie exclaimed happily as she pulled Peggy in for a hug, grinning from ear to ear. "I'm so very happy for you both! How did Will take it?"

"You would think he was a child on Christmas morning, he was so excited," Peggy chuckled lightly before frowning again. "This was supposed to be a happy time for us, we were planning on letting everyone know closer to Christmas. But this-this changes everything. My husband is more than likely going to be away when our child is going to be born, and what if something happens to him while he's away? What if he's killed, Evie?"

At this point Peggy's eyes were welling with tears again and she used her napkin to wipe at them.

"I already lost my brother, I don't think I can handle losing Will too," Peggy cried. "I'm scared my baby will grow up without their father."

Peggy hung her hand and Evie scooted closer to her, pulling her in for another hug, this one more tender and she gently rubbed Peggy's shoulder in comfort, going into deep thought. It hurt her to see Peggy so frightened and upset, considering she was usually the strong one that had been there to console Evie many times in the past. Peggy was always the one she leaned on, but now it was Evie's turn to be there for her. They both lost so much during the last war, and Evie refused to allow them to lose anyone else. Now that Peggy was pregnant, Evie didn't want to bear the thought of her losing them man she loved like she did. There has to be something that she could do, even if it was minimal.

A sudden thought struck Evie like the lightning outside the window and for a moment it caused her heartrate to increase in her chest. There was a small feeling of fear that was threatening to swell up in her stomach but she managed to gently calm it, taking a deep breath and replacing the fear with determination. This idea was absolutely insane, but from what she could see, it was the only way she could guarantee that Will would be safe. Or, at least safer. Squeezing Peggy's shoulder, Evie pulled back so she could look her friend in the eyes, giving her an encouraging smile.

"Don't be sad, Peggy," Evie said. "Everything's going to be just fine. Will is going to be okay. Do you really think that man would let anything stop him from getting back to you and your baby? I've seen how the man gets when anyone even looks at you the wrong way and trust me, it would take a lot more than a war to stop him from coming home."

"You don't know that," Peggy whispered.

"Maybe I do, and you just don't know it yet," Evie replied with a shrug of her shoulders, making Peggy furrow her eyebrows.

"Evie, what are planning?" Peggy asked. "I know that look..."

"I'm not planning anything. Not anything bad, at least."

"Evie..."

"Peggy, just trust me, okay? Everything is going to be all right, I promise."

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The very next morning, Evie showed up at Howard's home bright and early, and requested to borrow Jarvis so she could head on over to SHIELD. Although he was confused, Howard agreed and even went along with them, seeing as he didn't have a meeting until later on that afternoon. He asked her a couple times what she was up to, as she supposedly still had "the look," but Evie was very vague, stating only that she needed to speak w/ Colonel Phillips about something important. She knew that if she disclosed her intentions to Howard, he probably wouldn't be happy about it. But this was her choice, and she would do whatever she could to make sure it follows through. When they finally arrived at SHIELD a couple hours later, Evie wasted no time in taking the elevator down to the secret base below the surface and started making her way to Phillips office, with Howard and Jarvis working to keep up with her long strides. Once she arrived, she knocked sharply twice before opening the door to see Phillips seated at his desk, looking over a stack of papers and documents with his usual frown, the wrinkles on his face a bit more profound and the silver hairs on his head more visible. He looked up from his paperwork when she entered and raised an eyebrow, the only indication that he was surprised to see her.

"No," he said bluntly.

"You haven't heard what I was going to say yet, sir."

"I don't care. I know that look and the answer is no."

"Why does everyone think I have a 'look?'"

"Because you do," Howard piped up from the back.

"Shut it Stark. For all I know, you could be in on whatever this is," Phillips said.

"I'm as in the dark as you are, sir," Howard defended.

"Anyway," Evie said, giving Phillips an unwavering stare. "Are you still in good connections with General Matthews, sir?"

"Why do I have a feeling I'm going to regret it if I say yes?" Phillips groaned.

"He's the commander of the 501st regiment, to which Captain William Prescott has been assigned," Evie stated, and she could practically feel the realization slam into Howard as he started sputtering behind her.

"I'm just going to ignore the fact that you somehow know that and ask what your point is?" Phillips sighed.

"Sir, I respectfully request to enlist and for you to have General Matthews accept me into his unit."

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I hope that you all enjoyed this chapter. The ending has been slightly altered, due to receiving correct and accurate information from one of my readers, Goldenfightergirl, thank you so much for all your helpful input, I appreciate it! I wanted to make sure that this chapter was satisfactory for anyone who has served, or knows someone who has, because the last thing I want to do is give out misinformation about this kind of stuff. Hopefully this edit will be a little better, and please, if there's anything else I post that needs some correction/adjusting, just message me and let me know!