Chapter 1:
[Spartan POV]
[Years earlier, Nightclub, New York City, USA, Earth-6160]
[Rooftop.] Both Karai and I watch as Nelson Branco, the Viceroy gang leader, exits his car and enters his nightclub along with his security team. "I count 30 armed hostiles inside," Karai says, looking through her sniper rifle's scope, "This won't be a clean and easy run." "Never expected it to be," I say, firing a grapple-line toward the nightclub's roof.
[Inside.] Drop the guy on the balcony first. Rushing up behind another goon, I quickly wrap my arms around his neck, putting him in a back-chokehold. He drops unconsciously to the floor. I sprint to another thug. The man is caught by surprise. He doesn't have time to react as I grab hold of his head and slam him down to the floor. Bad-guy-4 spots me and starts to set his gun at the ready. I zig-zag across the room and hip-throw the goon through a nearby table. Four others come through the door. Four whistling objects fly past me, dropping the four goons. "Thanks for the save," I say to Karai over the comlink. "Hacked their security system. I locked the top floor down. No one is getting in or out. I'm moving to you now," Karai says.
Three tangos come out and surround me. The first guy comes at me with a wide haymaker. I deflect the attack, go around his back, deliver two body shots to the right kidney, and then knock him out with a hammer punch. The second guy swings a poor hook-punch. I block it, hit the guy with two gut punches, and stomp out his kneecap. He drops, screaming out in pain. I leave him to his agony. The last one standing rushes at me with an iron pipe, swinging it wildly. I duck under the swing, grab the iron pipe, rip it out of the attacker's hands, grab him by the head, and ram it down onto my knees, knocking him out cold.
I advance toward Branco's main office door but stop in my tracks as Branco himself kicks open the door, wielding an SMG. "Fucking mask freak!" he yells out. When Branco sees me, he opens fire. I jump to cover, then toss a smoke grenade for cover. The area is quickly engulfed in thick white smoke. In a panic, Branco starts to fire in all directions, missing me with every shot. "Show yourself, you fuck! You think I'm going to let a freak in a mask take me down! This city is my Kingdom! My fucking castle! My empire!" "No! Tonight, your empire will burn to ashes," a voice yells out. Karai's voice. Using the smoke as cover, she shoots Branco in both his knees, dropping the crime boss.
Branco screams out in agony, clenching his injured legs. He desperately tries to reach over for the SMG that fell beside him. As his fingers reach the handle grip, I stomp on his hand and kick the weapon away. I reach down and grab Branco by the throat, getting him to his feet. Karai punches him in the face. He falls. She jumps on him and punches Branco again and again. When Karai stops, Branco's face is a bloody mess. Nearly unrecognizable. He's still breathing, barely. I draw my pistol and finish Branco off with a single shot to the head.
Suddenly, there's a booming bright flash of light. Multiple tactical-suited soldiers come storming into the nightclub, weapons ready. We notice the SHIELD insignia on their uniforms. The troopers shoot us with stun-bolts. Everything goes black.
[Unknown Location]
Opening my eyes, I find myself in a holding cell with Karai, hands cuffed behind our backs. Karai starts to regain consciousness. "Where are we?" she asks, dazed. "No idea," I tell her.
"You're in a holding cell on the Helicarrier," a voice says. We turn to face the source of the voice. Outside of the holding cell stands an African American man with an eyepatch. "My name is Nick Fury. Director of SHIELD," the man says, his voice carrying authority. "Let's cut straight to the point. I've been tracking you two. Corvo and Samus, or rather Spartan and Karai. The PARAGADES. A real dynamic duo. No question you're effective, given that the both of you systematically cripple the Viceroy gang. I know an asset when I see one, and you two are it. I want the PARAGADES to join SHIELD."
Completely taken aback, Karai and I look at each other in shock and confusion. "Why?" I ask, trying to comprehend the situation. Fury cracks a small smile, "There was an idea. Bring together a group of individuals, unite them to become something more, to fight the battles no one else could, to protect and defend the world against all threats."
Fury explains that SHIELD has been monitoring our activities, recognizing the impact we have made in combating organized crime. He believes that our unique skills and abilities make us valuable assets in the fight against global threats. Fury offers us a chance to channel our talents toward a greater purpose, to become part of a team dedicated to safeguarding the world.
Though initially hesitant, we realize the opportunity before us. We have always fought to protect the innocent and bring justice to those who deserve it. Joining SHIELD would provide us with the resources, training, and support to make an even greater impact.
After discussing our concerns and asking questions, Karai and I agree to join SHIELD; eager to embrace this new chapter of our lives, we understand that this decision will shape our future and set us on a path of greater responsibility.
[Years later, Secret SHIELD base]
Karai and I enter the lab, having volunteered to take part in SHIELD's SUPER-SOLDIER program. The program, based on the successful Project Rebirth, aims to enhance human capabilities and create a new breed of super-soldiers. A team of highly skilled scientists prepares us for the procedure, ensuring our bodies and minds are ready for the transformative experience.
Once we are fully prepared, we step into separate chambers, each containing advanced technology and monitoring equipment. Howard Stark, the brilliant scientist leading the project, stands nearby, overseeing the process. He presents two syringes filled with a mysterious bio-enhancer compound. We take the syringes and inject the compound into our necks simultaneously.
Immediately, we feel a surge of energy coursing through our bodies. The bio-enhancer activates, enhancing our physical attributes, strength, agility, and endurance. It also augments our mental capabilities, sharpening our focus and perception. We can sense the changes happening within us as if we are being reborn into something more powerful and resilient.
As the procedure concludes, we step out of the chambers, feeling invigorated and ready to embrace our enhanced abilities. The scientists and SHIELD agents observe our transformation with a mix of awe and excitement, recognizing the potential we now possess.
Karai and I have become the embodiment of the PARAGADES, a formidable duo equipped with superhuman capabilities and a shared commitment to protecting the world. With our new powers and SHIELD's support, we are prepared to face any challenge that comes our way and fulfill our mission to defend humanity against all threats.
Our journey as enhanced agents of SHIELD has just begun, and we stand ready to make a difference on a global scale. Together, as the PARAGADES, we will strive to bring justice to the world, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and embodying the ideals of the organization we have chosen to join.
[Present time, UN building, New York City]
EPYON, a highly advanced crime/emergency alert system, detects a code-red operation unfolding at the UN building. With precision and urgency, a team of elite SIGMA commandos and I scale the side of the towering structure. The situation is grave, as a notorious terrorist organization known as the Ten-Rings has seized control of the UN summit. Their anarchic ideology poses a direct threat to global peace and stability. Despite the perplexing breach of security, our immediate focus is on neutralizing the terrorists and restoring order.
Communicating through our comlinks, I inform my team, "SIGMA-1 is in position." Karai, a trusted and skilled ally, relays critical information about two hostiles positioned on the floor above me. With calculated efficiency, I eliminate the threats with swift, silenced shots. "It's clear," Karai confirms, her voice steady and determined. Taking the lead, I maneuver through a window entrance, with four SIGMA commandos closely following my every move.
[Inside.] Once inside the UN building, I gathered my team and briefed them on the plan. "Okay, we split up here. You two take the West sector. You two take East. I'll take North," I instruct, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and watching each other's backs. "Our objective is simple: everyone goes home tonight, except the bad guys who will meet their fate." With a shared understanding of our mission, we dispersed to our designated sectors.
Entering the main room, I take in the distressing sight of hostages huddled together at the center. Simultaneously, Karai infiltrates from above while the remaining SIGMA commandos approach from a different entrance. Our unity and training become evident as we flawlessly coordinate our actions. With a subtle gesture, I signal for a synchronized shot. All team members ready their weapons, awaiting my command.
"On my go," I whisper with unwavering determination. The room erupts in controlled chaos as the first shot rings out, swiftly followed by five more. The terrorists fall, their threat neutralized. We waste no time in securing the hostages, ensuring their safety in the midst of the turmoil. Tapping my comlink, I relay the mission status, "Threats eliminated. Hostages are secured."
[SHIELD HQ, New York City]
In the calm confines of the office, Nick Fury, the renowned director of SHIELD, commends our successful rescue mission. "Well done on the rescue mission," he acknowledges, his authoritative presence filling the room. "Coulson gave me a full mission report." Karai, displaying a hint of dissatisfaction, voices her concerns. "I feel dirty for saving a bunch of politicians who've done some questionable things," she remarks, reflecting the moral complexities of our line of work. Sharing her sentiment, I add, "Ditto on that."
Aware of our reservations, Fury offers insight into the nature of our role. "I don't like it as much as you do, but it's part of the job. We don't pick or choose the op," he explains, underscoring the necessity of our actions in maintaining global security. Though understanding Fury's point, I can't help but express my reluctance. "Maybe so, but I don't like sticking my neck out for a bunch of corrupt bureaucrats," I admit, my shoulders shrugging in a gesture of discontent. Taking note of our sentiments, Fury acknowledges our perspective. "Duly noted," he responds, acknowledging our concerns while reminding us of the greater responsibility we bear as members of SHIELD.
[Nick Fury POV]
I turn my gaze back to my desk with a sigh, studying the candidates' profiles for the AVENGERS initiative project. So far, there are Some promising candidates. Clint Barton (Hawkeye), Natasha Romanoff (Black Widow), Samus (Karai), and Corvo (Spartan). Two assassins and two soldiers. A good start so far. At that moment, my personal phone buzzes with an incoming call. I raise an eyebrow, intrigued by Maria Hill's call. "What did you find, Agent Hill?" I inquire, my voice steady and focused.
"There's an anomaly, sir," Maria explains, her voice conveying a mix of urgency and curiosity. "It appears to be a highly advanced technology buried deep beneath the ice. It emits an energy signature we've never encountered before." I lean forward in my chair, my interest piqued. "Have you been able to assess its origin or purpose?" I ask, my mind already spinning with possibilities.
"We're still gathering data, but preliminary analysis suggests that it could be extraterrestrial in nature," Maria responds. "The energy readings are off the charts, and it's unlike anything we've seen before." I nod, processing the information. "Keep the area secure, Agent Hill. I'm sending a team to investigate immediately," I instruct, already formulating a plan in my mind. "Make sure all necessary precautions are in place. We can't afford any mishaps with such a powerful unknown entity."
"Yes, sir," Maria acknowledges. "We'll maintain strict security protocols and await further instructions." Ending the call, I stand up from my desk, the weight of the situation settling upon me. The discovery of this anomaly could have significant implications, and I needed to assemble a team capable of handling whatever challenges it presented. Walking over to a display case on the wall, I observe the iconic symbols of the AVENGERS. The symbol represented the potential heroes who could stand against the threats that loomed over our world.
With a determined expression, I think back to the candidates' profiles I had been reviewing earlier. Hawkeye, Black Widow, Spartan, and Kari. Each possessed unique skills and abilities that made them formidable in their own right. But together, they could become an unstoppable force. Picking up the phone again, I dial a number connecting me to each of them individually. "Barton, Romanoff, Samus, Corvo. Report to SHIELD HQ immediately," I command, my tone conveying both authority and a hint of excitement. "We have a new mission that requires your expertise. The fate of the world may depend on it." As I hang up the phone, I can't help but feel a glimmer of hope. The AVENGERS initiative was about to take its first major step, and with this newly discovered anomaly, the world would soon know that there were heroes among us, ready to defend it from any threat that emerged.
[Spartan POV]
[Later]
[Medical Center.] Karai and I stand guard outside the secure room where Captain America is being thawed out. It's a surreal moment, knowing that we are in the presence of a living legend. The man who fought in World War II disappeared for decades and is now being brought back to the world he once knew. Inside the room, the medical team continues their work, carefully monitoring Steve Rogers' condition as the ice slowly melts away. The room is filled with a mix of anticipation and reverence. We understand the significance of this moment and the potential impact it could have on SHIELD and the world at large.
As the last remnants of ice disappear, Steve Rogers takes his first breath in nearly 70 years. The medical team quickly moves into action, assessing his vital signs and ensuring his recovery is progressing smoothly. I watch with a sense of awe as the living legend begins to regain consciousness. Fury enters the room, his presence commanding as always. "Welcome back, Captain," he says, a hint of admiration in his voice. "It's good to see you." Captain America looks around, his eyes adjusting to the unfamiliar surroundings. "Where am I?" he asks, his voice filled with of confusion. "You're at SHIELD headquarters, Captain," Fury responds, "You been MIA for a long time." Captain America's gaze sharpens, a steely resolve replacing any lingering confusion, "Did we win?"
Fury nods, a small smile forming on his face, "Yeah." Karai and I exchange glances, realizing the magnitude of this moment. We've come a long way from being the PARAGADES, fighting against the Viceroy gang, to now standing alongside legendary heroes like Captain America. As the security detail assigned to Captain America, Karai and I will have the privilege of working closely with him. We understand the weight of the responsibility that comes with this role, but we also recognize the incredible opportunity it presents. The world is changing, and with Captain America's return, we stand on the precipice of a new era. The AVENGERS will rise, united against any threat that dares to challenge the safety and security of the world. And Karai and I, as members of SHIELD, are proud to be a part of this extraordinary team.
[Steve Rogers POV]
[Years earlier, Soviet Russia]
The rain pours down relentlessly as the Howling Commandos, and I take position atop a hill, surveying the Leviathan base. A carrier aircraft approaches and troopers in HYDRA gear descend swiftly on ropes, eliminating the guards with ruthless efficiency. We move swiftly, blending into the shadows as we infiltrate the base.
Inside, we halt our advance upon hearing approaching footsteps. Two sentries round the corner, and we swiftly incapacitate them. With the coast clear, we press on, silently dispatching a few more enemies along the way. Our mission leads us to a control room, where we regroup outside the door. I count down silently with three fingers before the door is forcefully blown open. The team storms in, eliminating all armed troopers inside. Satisfied that the room is secure, we descend further into the depths of the base.
On the lower level, we stealthily breach a massive silo housing a missile platform. This is the superweapon we were sent to destroy, the one mentioned in the SSR intelligence. Leviathan troopers remain oblivious to our presence as they stand at attention, listening to a speech by their commander. Suddenly, a sarcastic clap resonates through the room, catching everyone's attention. A man emerges from the shadows, mocking the commander's rhetoric.
It's Zemo, Red Skull's enforcer, and a formidable adversary. The sight of him fills me with a mix of anger and determination. Zemo wastes no time and swiftly dispatches the Leviathan commander with a single shot to the head. As HYDRA commandos descend from the ceiling, chaos erupts as they engage the troopers. The team springs into action, and I make a beeline toward Zemo, calling out his name.
Zemo, a sadistic megalomaniac, relishes chaos and destruction. Our past encounters have shown me the depths of his depravity. He sees me as a rival, someone he wants to eliminate. Our clash begins as he leaps off the platform, his sword ready. I dodge his attacks, but a couple of strikes land on my shoulder and chest. With my shield as my weapon, I fight back, trading powerful blows with Zemo. Our battle rages on, each of us refusing to relent.
I manage to disarm him momentarily, but Zemo quickly recovers, launching himself at me. I slam him against the wall and unleash a barrage of punishing blows. Despite his resilience, I overpower him momentarily, only for him to counter with a brutal strike to my face. Undeterred, I retaliate with an uppercut and a forceful shield strike, sending him flying across the room. Mask cracked, Zemo rises to his feet, determined to escalate the confrontation.
Zemo reveals a handheld device and triggers the missile launch sequence, endangering countless lives. Reacting swiftly, I leap onto the missile, clinging to it with my enhanced strength. Scaling my way toward the guidance system, I pry open the panel and arm a frag grenade. However, Zemo reappears, attempting to subdue me with a chokehold. I break free and kick him away, watching as he plummets to the blazing boosters.
Returning to the open panel, I toss the frag grenade inside, causing a deafening explosion that engulfs everything in darkness.
[Present Time, Rogers's apartment, New York City]
In the solitude of my apartment, I sit before the computer that Fury provided, delving into the vast amount of information that accumulated during my absence of 70 years. The world I knew has transformed, shaped by the inexorable march of progress. It's a mixed bag of emotions as I navigate through the essentials: history, science, technology, and culture. The weight of the realization settles upon me that all my fellow comrades from the Howling Commandos have passed away. Dum Dum Dugan, Junior Juniper, Jim Morita, James Montgomery Falsworth, Gabe Jones, Jacques Dernier, Happy Sam Sawyer, Pinky Pinkerton, and Bucky. Though it brings some solace to know that those who survived the war lived long and fulfilling lives. However, the news of Peggy's recent peaceful passing in her sleep strikes me deeply.
Next on the list is Howard Stark. Disease claimed his life. My shoulders sag with grief. Tony Stark, his son, now heads Stark Industries and also dons the mantle of Iron Man. Clint Barton and Natasha Romanoff's files come next, their past veiled in black ink. It's evident to me that Clint and Natasha are part of SHIELD's covert operative squad. Then there's a profile on the PARAGADES, Spartan and Karai, a vigilante team operating in New York City. They possess formidable combat skills and adaptability, making them lethal adversaries. SHIELD took notice when they took down the Viceroy gang, leading to their recruitment. Another team with a dossier filled with classified information. Restlessness engulfs me, and I decide to head to the gym.
[Boxing gym, New York City]
With each punch, I pour my strength into the bag, the force of my blows intensifying with every strike yet maintaining control. Memories of the war surge through my mind, overwhelming me like an unyielding wave. I find myself lost in the vast expanse of those recollections, reliving the last mission vividly—the battle against Zemo and the heart-wrenching loss of Bucky. In a surge of anger, I deliver a powerful punch that sends the bag hurtling across the room. I swiftly regain composure, setting up a fresh bag, and that's when I notice Fury's presence, accompanied by the two enigmatic figures dressed in black, Spartan and Karai. I salute the trio, a sign of respect for their commitment to the cause. "How are you feeling, Captain?" Fury inquires. "Fine. Just a bit restless," I confess. "Then I arrived at the perfect time," Fury remarks, handing me a tablet. "I'm assembling a team, and I want you to lead it." The decision comes effortlessly, for I have always been kind to heed the call of duty to defend the defenseless. "Yes, I'm in," I declare without hesitation. Fury's smirk reflects his satisfaction as he extends his hand, which I firmly grasp. "Welcome to SHIELD, Captain," he says, sealing the pact between us.