Wakanda
Steve was impressed with Wakanda. It was unlike any place he had ever visited. The people lived behind fortified walls, but they were free and happy. They were a people who stayed to themselves, but they were well aware of the rest of the world. In terms of technology, they were the equal if not superior to any of Tony Stark's toys. It was amazing and the King was T'Challa, who protected his people as the Black Panther.
T'Challa was raised on herbs and plants that gave him abilities equal to Bucky and almost equal to Steve. He wore a vibranium weaved suit that was virtually indestructible. On their first day in Wakanda, T'Challa introduced Bucky to a medical staff who were taken to help him with his problem. Their job was not only to restore his memories but make sure that he could no longer be triggered. He then offered to help with the training of Wanda and Pietro to control their powers. Wanda appeared to be comfortable even with T'Challa's calm persona that she was able to listen to him like she did with Steve.
As for Natasha she found herself at odds with body guards, female warriors know as the Dora Milaje. They believe that the Black Widow had eyes for their leader. This amused both Steve and T'challa.
"I know that Miss Romanov is in love with you, but my body guards are protective of me for many reasons, not the least of which is that I am supposed to pick a wife from their ranks," explained T'Challa.
"Jealousy," smiled Steve.
"Yes, it is a problem at times," said T'Challa. "I am their king and potentially their husband."
"I couldn't help you out there," said Steve. "At least, where it comes to Natasha."
"How, Captain?" asked T'Challa.
"Please, it's no longer Captain. I resigned my rank with the US military, sent my Captain America suit back to Tony Stark, and no longer even have my shield. I'm a Nomad now," Steve said sadly.
T'Challa nodded understandingly.
"How can you help, Steve?" T'Challa asked.
"This way," Steve said.
They had been watching Natasha spar with a Dora Miljae. It was a closer match then Steve anticipated, but Natasha finally prevailed. As she assisted the female warrior up, Steve jumped over the top rope of the ring and walked up to her. Before Natasha could speak, he took her in his arms and kissed her. It was a long, hot, and deeply passionate kiss that lasted longer than was comfortable for most spectators. T'Challa tried to hide his amusement, especially as Natasha reached down and squeezed Steve's butt cheek. Finally, they separated.
"What was that for?" she asked.
"Pride and love," he answered.
"Okay, I'll accept that," she smiled.
The two of the them joined T'Challa.
"Congratulations, Miss Romanov, you bested one of my best warriors in hand to hand combat," said T'challa.
"I was trained by the Red Room starting as a child to be a human weapon, to be an assasin. I have some unfair advantages," she said.
"Still, it was impressive," smiled T'Challa. "My Dora Miljae will now work even harder to best you. They will use your example as a goal. Don't be surprised if several ask you to spar I the coming days."
"Bring them on," smirked Natasha.
"Steve was telling me that he is Nomad now. We must find an appropriate uniform for him then," said T'Challa. "I was thinking something like my Panther suit. All black with a vibranium weave."
"I will need something to wear other than jeans when Natasha and I go back into action against Hydra," said Steve.
"You still intend on fighting Hydra?" asked T'challa.
"I have to fight them. I'm number one on their hit list, so it is only fair that they are number one on mine," he smiled. "Plus, it is the right thing to do. I swore to fight them to the end back in World War II and they are unfortunately still around."
"I agree. It is the right thing to do," said T'Challa. "They have been making overtones about infiltrating Wakanda. They want vibranium in order to make weapons. I will never allow that."
"I will give my life defending Wakanda, your highness," said Steve. "It is the least I can do."
"I hope it does not go that far," smiled T'Challa, "but I may grant you and Natasha, as well as the rest of your group citizenship. If I make you diplomats you can't be arrested by authorities."
"I don't want to be a burden to your country," said Steve.
"How could Steve Rogers be a burden to my country?" asked T'Challa. "You are a great and honorable warrior."
"Thank you, your highness," said Steve.
"Have you two started a fan club with each other?" smirked Natasha.
T'Challa laughed loudly. Steve chuckled. He was used to Natasha's digs.
"Tonight, you and Natasha must have dinner with me," said T'Challa. "I'll expect you at six at my main residence."
"We'll be there," smiled Natasha. "Formal dress."
"Let us make it casual. I have a feeling Steve would prefer it that way," said T'Challa.
"Thank you, your highness," smiled Steve.
AVENGERS
Natasha arrived for dinner wearing black jeans, black leather knee high boots, a red silk shirt, and her brown leather jacket. Steve was even more casual as he wore loafers, chinos, and a blue Oxford shirt with his sleeves rolled up. The Dora Miljae searched them for weapons. None were found, which amused Natasha.
"Do you have a weapon on you?" Steve asked her.
"You can search me later," she smirked.
They were escorted to a dining table with a view of the Black Panther statue. King T'Challa was waiting for them. He was dressed in a simple loose fitting white shirt and black pants. He motioned them to sit then motioned to have wine served.
"This wine is made in Wakanda. I am proud of it," he said.
Natasha sample the red wine and smiled.
"It's very good," she sad.
"And you Steve?" he asked.
Steve sipped it and said, "Nice."
"He tends to drink beer, whiskey or bourbon," said Natasha.
"And he can't get drunk I heard," added T'Challa.
"My metabolism burns it off too quickly," Steve admitted. "Although mead from Asgard can get me drunk."
"I'll remember that," smiled T'Challa. "Tonight we are going to sample local foods. Purple potatoes, yams mixed with spinach, okra and rice and for protein fish caught fresh today."
"And dessert?" asked Natasha.
"Chocolate cake. It's my favorite," smiled T'Challa.
"Sounds delicious," said Steve.
"His metabolism also means he eats a great deal," said Natasha.
T'Challa chuckled then asked, "Are your residences satisfactory?"
"The suite is very comfortable," said Natasha.
"And we have room service," smiled Steve.
"He gets urges at odd hours," Natasha added.
"I heard about a request for a cheeseburger at two in the morning," said T'Challa.
"I need fuel to burn," blushed Steve. "I tipped well."
"You don't need to tip or pay. You are my guests and I am working on making you part of my entourage," said T'Challa. "I believe a Wakandan passport will allow you the ability to travel wherever you wish."
"Your highness, I told you that was unnecessary," said Steve.
"It necessary, Steve. Good men cannot stand idle and allow evil to flourish," said T'Challa. "You are aware of that."
"I am," Steve agreed.
Dinner was served. As predicted Steve ate double the portions of everyone else and when it came to dessert his piece of cake was enough for two. T'Challa was amused by it all.
"I hope you enjoyed your meal," he said.
"It was delicious," smiled Steve.
"Thank you, your highness," said Natasha.
Coffee was served along with cognac. Steve sampled the coffee. It was fragrant and strong. He liked it.
"I heard that you gave up your medals, Steve," said T'Challa.
"It was part of the price I had to pay along with my commission and citizenship," he sighed. "As you can see it is impossible for me to be Captain America now."
"I've monitored the reaction and the polls show that seventy percent of the American public believes you have been given a bad deal. They trust you more than they trust politicians," said T'Challa.
"If the US government wants something from Steve now, they don't have any leverage on him. He is a free agent," said Natasha.
"I know, which is why I want him on my side," said T'Challa. "I may have a mission to Brussels next week. I might want you two along for your skills."
"Spy?" smiled Natasha.
"Of course," he nodded.
"Warrior," said Steve.
"Exactly," he replied. "Hydra wants me dead. And I want information on Hydra, including if they have any moles in my country."
"I think we can help you with that," said Natasha.
"I know you can," said T'Challa. "Steve, tomorrow I will make an arrangement for you to meet with the scientists who made my suit. They will make you one, including a new shield."
"A new shield?" asked Steve.
"You carry no offensive weapons, but you have turned a defensive one into a weapon. It will be slightly different, more compact, easier to carry," said T'Challa. "I think you'll like it."
"I know I will, your highness," said Steve.
"Good," T'Challa sipped his cognac. "When we go there will be those who will be against your new positions, but you will remain part of the diplomat staff in order to have diplomatic immunity."
"Don't worry, your highness, we won't embarrass you," said Steve.
AVENGERS
Natasha watched over the next week. He worked out constantly, didn't shave, and let his hair grow longer. Slowly, the military man he was became a different man, at least in image. She was started to worry about him, but every time she tried to engage him in conversation it ended up in the best sex of her life. Natasha didn't want to admit it but Steve Rogers had her wrapped around his finger. Thank God he didn't realize it. T'Challa visited them in their suite.
"Your highness," Steve answered the door.
"I bring presents," he said and handed Steve a garment bag and a wrapped box. "Your new uniform and shield."
"Thank you, sir," Steve said.
Natasha came out of the bedroom dressed casually. She noticed T'Challa was alone, which was a sign of trust.
"Can I call down to the kitchen and have them send up a quick dinner for us?" she asked. "We would love to have you as a guest."
"I'd love a cheeseburger and waffle fries," smiled T'Challa.
"I'll get you your usual, Steve," she said.
"Thank," he smiled as he took the shield out. It was black and folded. He noticed a release which he triggered and it popped into a shield slightly smaller than his Captain America shield. Testing the weight and balance he grinned from ear to ear.
"The uniform he all black with vibranium weave. You an wear it comfortable under a suit," said T'Challa.
"Your highness, it is too much. I can't repay you," said Steve.
"You don't have to repay me. You can work will me to keep Hydra out of my country," said T'Challa.
"That I intend on doing," said Steve.
"In a few days we go to Brussels. The more intel we can get the better. I know there are moles in my government, and that Hydra wants me dead," said T'Challa.
"Let's keep them unhappy," said Steve.
AVENGERS
Tony Stark was in Brussels for the EU meeting promoting the registry. He was the first to notice the man at King T'Challa's side. It was a bearded, longish hair Steve Rogers in a Black suit with a white shirt and black tie. He was by T'Challa's side as a bodyguard but more. It appeared that he was also a confidant to T'Challa. He walked up to them but was stopped by the Dora Miljae. T'challa waved him through.
"Mr. Stark," said T'Challa.
"Your Highness," said Stark, "I see you have a new body man. Hi, Steve. Is this your new job?"
"Mr. Stark," Steve nodded.
"Mr Stark," chuckled Stark. "You know that you are a wanted man, Rogers?"
"He travels with a Wakandan Diplomatic passport, so he has diplomatic immunity," said T'Challa.
"Smart," smiled Stark. "So, Your Highness, are you sure you want a wanted man on your payroll?"
"What I have on my payroll, Mr. Stark, is none of your business. Steve Rogers is a good man and a great warrior. I am honored to call him a friend," said T'Challa.
Before Tony could make a comment there was explosion. Steve reacted quickly, grabbing T'Challa and pushing him into the arms of the Dora Miljae. He then reached into his jacket, took out his folded shield, and expanded it into a shield. Tony turned and called for Happy Hogan, who carried a case with an Iron Man suit in it. Getting the case, he suited up. Another explosion went off. The foray of the building was in shambles with destruction, killed, and injured.
"Your Highness, I think it's time for you to return to the hotel. I stay here and deal with this," said Steve.
"I'll return soon," said T'Challa.
The Dora Miljae escorted his away. Steve slipped out of his suit and was now wearing his black Nomad gear. Stark looked at him and laughed.
"Can't you give up the life?" he asked.
"Hydra is at war with me and I'm still at war with Hydra," said Steve.
"Good point," said Stark.
Stark started to scan the area. He noted some diplomats pinned down by ceiling, so he made his way over to help them. Steve scanned the area looking for Hydra personnel. Usually, Hydra had two prong attacks. The explosions were number one. Where was number two?
It was then that he saw Rumlow and several rogue Strike team members. They were in body armor with assault weapons and were looking for certain people to kidnap. He went into action. Vaulting some rubble, he readied his shield then yelled, "Rumlow!"
He threw the shield. It took Rumlow's weapon out of his hands, bounced off the floor then the wall and returned to Steve in time for him to stop a hail of bullets.
"Hey, Captain Without a Country, it's never good to see you," yelled Rumlow.
"Hydra scum," growled Steve, as he attacked the rogue Strike team.
Barreling into them, he took down three in seconds then kicked a fourth into a wall leaving a body impression. Rumlow unholstered his sidearm and fired at Steve. The bullets bounced off his vibranium weave sit without a problem. Steve threw his shield at Rumlow catching him in the gut and putting him down. Before Steve could reached Rumlow the police and military appeared. Besides surrounding the rogue Strike team they surrounded Steve. He put his hands up.
AVENGERS
Steve sat in a high security cell until a CIA official as well as a SHIELD and local police official came to see him.
"So, Rogers, your a bodyguard now, huh?" said the CIA official.
Steve didn't respond. He looked at the SHIELD official. He remembered them as one of Coulson's people.
"Agent Burton?" asked Steve.
"Yes, Captain," said Burton.
"Not a captain anymore," smirked Steve. "Have you come to lecture me, also?"
"No, I'm here to make sure that you are released since you travel under a Wakandan Diplomatic passport," said Burton.
"T'Challa is here?" asked Steve.
"Yes, Mr. Rogers, King T'Challa is here," said the local police official. "He wants your immediate release. I am sorry for this misunderstanding, Mr. Rogersa."
Steve looked at Burton and said, "It was Rumlow and a rogue Strike team. They appeared to be looking for someone to kidnap. The explosions were a distraction, a deadly distraction."
"I'll look into, sir," said Burton.
"Secretary Ross told me to tell you that he is trying to have your diplomatic immunity revoked," said the CIA Official. "He thinks that you are nothing but a criminal. If he had his way, I'd be taking your back to the US to serve a life sentence."
"Good for him," said Steve.
Steve stood up. He offered his handcuffed hands to the local official. He unlocked the cuffs.
"I want my shield," he demanded.
"I will have it retrieved for you," said the local official.
"Thank you," said Steve.
"If you are no longer Captain America, then who are you now?" asked the CIA official.
"I'm Nomad, a man without a country," said Steve. "My country has left me, so I had to leave it."
"Your country wants you in a maximum security cell," said the CIA official.
"Keep trying," smiled Steve.
Steve exited the cell. Through a thick bullet proof glass he saw T'Challa waiting for him. He nodded to the king, who smiled in return. The rest of the way Steve was escorted by two police men until he reached T'Challa, who handed him his new shield. Steve took it from him.
"I received a message from Miss Romanov. We were right to leave her in Wakanda. She put her skillset to finding the moles in my government and has. We must return home right away and deal with it," said T'Challa.
"Let's go, your highness," said Steve.