…
The Man Out of Time
Chapter 32
"It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves."
— William Shakespeare
Tsurugi Peak Detention Center, Japan - September 2043
In the stark corridor of Cellblock 1, the air was thick with tension as over two dozen guards leveled their pistols at Izuku, Bucky, and James. The lead guard's command reverberated through the cold concrete expanse.
James cocked an eyebrow at Bucky. "What's he saying?" he asked.
"He's giving us one last chance to surrender," Bucky translated tersely.
James smirked. "Guess he doesn't know I prefer negotiating with these," he quipped, holding up his bone claws for emphasis.
The lead guard signaled the escalation, "用意!目的..." ("Ready! Aim…")
Izuku acted quickly, "Bucky, Howlett, behind me!"
Bucky darted behind Izuku, eyeing the shield skeptically. "That shield—can it really stop bullets?"
"Well, it's steel. Better than nothing," Izuku replied, his grip tightening.
James, however, stepped forward, dismissing the need for cover. "Don't worry about me, Shorty. I've got my own shield," he said.
The order was final, "火事!" ("Fire!")
Bullets tore through the air.
Izuku knelt, hoisting his shield. It clanged and dented under the onslaught, sparks scattering with each strike. Beside him, James charged, his body absorbing bullets, his healing factor seamlessly expelling the lead and closing wounds. "You're gonna need bigger guns!" he roared, barreling through the guards' formation with ferocious intensity.
Bullets ricocheted off Izuku's shield as he and Bucky pressed forward. Izuku, with deft movements, used his shield to bash and his baton to strike, swiftly incapacitating guards. Bucky, armed with confiscated pistols, provided cover, his shots precise and controlled. Several guards went down with bloody wounds in their legs, crying out.
Cheers erupted from the cells, prisoners rallying behind the trio's audacious resistance. Amidst the chaos, in a solitary cell, Todoroki Junnosuke remained still, meditating amidst the cacophony.
James stood amidst a heap of dazed guards, grinning wildly. "Once you run out of ammo, it's game over for you," he taunted.
The guards, comprehending the imminent threat without understanding the words, scrambled for the exit only to find it sealed.
In a desperate move, one guard noticed Junnosuke's calm demeanor and approached his cell. Fumbling with the keys, he unlocked the door and pleaded, "Prisoner 505, we need your assistance!"
Junnosuke looked up, his face a mask of neutrality. "It's against the rules to use powers here," he stated plainly.
The guard, pressing a button on a remote, deactivated Junnosuke's power-dampening collar. "I'm authorizing it. The warden will understand," he insisted, desperation edging his voice.
Junnosuke stood, stretching slightly as he stepped out of his cell. Without saying a word, he moved towards the fracas, his hands beginning to emit a faint, steaming heat.
Izuku, Bucky, and James hastily regrouped. "Let's keep moving! The door is right ahead—" Izuku's instructions were abruptly cut off as Junnosuke emerged into the corridor, pushing the guards back as they sought cover behind him.
"ごめんなさい。" ("I am sorry.") Junnosuke said before extending both arms, his palms releasing torrents of scalding steam directed at them.
Izuku acted swiftly, raising his shield to protect both himself and Bucky, but the heat was so intense it made him wince. James, caught partially exposed, screamed as the steam burned him, though his skin began to heal almost immediately as his wounds closed.
The echoing boos and jeers from the prisoners filled the air, their disdain for Junnosuke palpable. Shouts of "裏切り者!", "どうしたの轟く!?", and "ばか! 自由になりたくないの!?" resonated through the cellblock, condemning his actions.
Cornered, the trio retreated into a perpendicular hallway as Junnosuke followed, relentlessly continuing his steam assault with a chilling calm. James, nursing his burnt arm, managed a pained quip, "Guess he's really steamed up about something!"
Bucky, eyeing the formidable steam wielder, muttered, "Whatever's boiling him, I'll cool him down." He readied his pistol, peeking from behind the corner.
Before Bucky could fire, Izuku intervened, grabbing his arm. "Bucky, no! We're not killing anyone unless absolutely necessary."
Frustration evident, Bucky protested, "A baton and stun-prod aren't going to cut it against that human kettle!"
Observing the water pooling on the floor from Junnosuke's relentless steam, a spark of strategy ignited in Izuku's mind. "Actually, the water might just be our ticket."
He turned to James, hesitating slightly. "Howlett, I hate to ask, but we need a diversion—"
James cut him off with a dismissive wave of his hand. "No big deal, Shorty. Just spit it out. What's the plan?" His expression was resolute.
The tension in the air was palpable as Junnosuke steadily approached, the heat from his steam blasts warming the already stifling corridor.
With a determined yell, James suddenly burst from behind the corner and charged directly at Junnosuke. The steam user turned swiftly, unleashing a scorching blast towards James. The first two jets missed as James agilely dodged, but the third caught his leg, causing him to stumble and roll across the floor, gritting his teeth against the pain.
As Junnosuke prepared to deliver a finishing blast to the downed James, Izuku saw his opening. "Now!" he shouted, charging forward with the stun-prod held out.
Junnosuke, detecting movement from the corner of his eye, redirected his steam attack toward Izuku. A fierce gust of scalding steam hissed towards him. Izuku, reacting swiftly, dove to the side, narrowly avoiding the intense blast. He used his shield to deflect most of the heat, hitting the ground with a grunt as the edges of his costume and leather jacket singed slightly.
Momentarily disoriented by the chaos, Junnosuke hesitated, his thoughts racing. 'Wasn't there a third one?' He squinted through the billowing steam, trying to locate the missing assailant, but the thick cloud obscured his vision.
From within the veil of steam, Bucky seized the moment. Moving silently and with deliberate precision, he launched the charged stun-prod straight at Junnosuke's torso.
"AAGGHH!" Junnosuke's agonized roar echoed through the corridor as the device connected, sending intense electric jolts coursing through his body. The wetness from his steam-enhanced ability only amplified the electrocution. He convulsed violently once before collapsing to the ground, twitching from the residual shocks.
A hushed silence fell over the cellblock, the prisoners and guards alike frozen in disbelief at Junnosuke's sudden defeat. However, this silence was quickly broken by a swell of applause from the prisoners, their cheers filling the corridor and echoing off the stark concrete walls.
Bucky, checking on James, offered a hand to help him up. "You good?"
James accepted the help, pulling himself to his feet. "Yeah, just a bit cooked. Nice throw, by the way."
Izuku joined them, his shield now lowered. "That was too close. Good work, both of you."
As the steam cleared, the remaining guards, witnessing the incapacitation of the cellblock's strongest prisoner, instantly raised their hands in surrender. The corridor was now alive with the prisoners' cheers and shouts, a stark contrast to the tense standoff moments before.
Izuku, Bucky, and James took swift action to secure the cellblock while the prisoners' cheers filled the air. They herded the surrendering guards into an empty cell, swiftly confiscating their weapons and keys and locking the door behind them.
From there, the trio uses the confiscated keys to unlock cells and deactivate the power-dampener collars.
James moved through the crowd, distributing keys with a steady hand. "Alright, folks, time to unlock yourselves and get a taste of freedom," he declared, his voice carrying over the noise.
Bucky followed, doing his best to translate James's words into Japanese. His pronunciation was rough, but effective enough that the prisoners understood, quickly beginning to unlock each other's cells and remove their collars.
Approaching a particularly large cell, James paused in surprise. Inside was a massive man whose appearance was reminiscent of an old steam locomotive. His torso and limbs were encased in black metal plating with side vents and a funnel protruding from his back, which forced him into a hunched posture. Unlike the others, he wore only orange pants, with the number 844 stamped on his chest, as his unique build did not accommodate a standard prison jumpsuit.
James blinked twice, incredulous. "What fairytale did you crawl out of, bub?"
The man looked up at James with a jolly smile. "英語は話さないで、ちっちゃな友達よ。" (I don't speak English, little friend.)
Shaking his head, James replied, "Don't speak Japanese, bub. But," he continued, unlocking the cell door and swinging it wide open. He approached the man and swiped the keycard around the collar on the man's funnel extension, letting it fall to the ground with a clang. "Hopefully, this gets the message across."
The large man rose from the reinforced bench, straightening to his full imposing height, and smiled broadly. "Thank you," he said in broken English, his voice deep and resonant.
Meanwhile, Bucky handed Izuku a keycard, and with a resolved gait, Izuku approached Junnosuke, who was sprawled on the ground, barely conscious and visibly shaken from the stun-prod's effect. Kneeling beside him, Izuku carefully deactivated the power-dampening collar around JunnAosuke's neck.
"You sure that's a good idea, bro?" Bucky asked, his tone tinged with hesitation. "He did attack us."
Izuku glanced back, his expression thoughtful. "I think there's more to his story."
Junnosuke, slightly stirring, managed a weak, "...なぜ?" ("...Why?")
Izuku looked at Bucky. "Can you translate for me? My Japanese isn't as sharp."
"Sure thing, just keep it simple," Bucky responded, readying himself.
Taking a deep breath, Izuku spoke gently but firmly. "I don't know why you're here," he paused, allowing Bucky to interpret, "but if you believe you're here unjustly... you're welcome to join us."
Bucky's translation might not have been flawless, but it conveyed the essence. Junnosuke's eyes widened slightly, a flicker of clarity passing over his features as if snapping out of a trance. Though disoriented, he understood the sentiment and managed a faint nod. "Arigatou…" he whispered in gratitude.
Izuku returned the nod with a reassuring smile, acknowledging Junnosuke's subtle acceptance.
Shortly after all the prisoners were freed, Bucky addressed them in his basic Japanese, "外に行って、反乱に参加してください." ("Go outside and join the rebellion.")
His pronunciation wasn't perfect, but the message was clear enough for the prisoners to understand.
"All aboard, gents!" the burly humanoid locomotive bellowed, his voice booming with enthusiasm. "The train to freedom awaits!"
With his formidable mass, he led the charge, crashing through the steel door the trio had previously entered. He spearheaded the prisoners' escape from the cellblock, their cheers and cries of liberation echoing powerfully through the corridors.
As Izuku, Bucky, and James prepared to exit through an adjacent door, they discovered it was firmly locked, the keypad unresponsive. "Door's sealed shut," Bucky noted grimly. "Should've asked one of those guys to break the door down." He turned to James. "Howlett, how strong are those bone claws?"
"Not strong enough to slice through a metal door that thick. Too bad they ain't metal," James mused, eyeing his claws thoughtfully. "Now, wouldn't that be something?"
"Maybe I can bust it down?" Izuku suggested, stepping back to ram it with his shield.
However, before he could attempt, a prisoner noticed their predicament and approached. He was a gaunt figure with wrinkled, pale skin, red irises, a bald head with two long strands of black hair from his temples, and a toothless mouth with green gums.
"Help?" he asked in broken English, pointing towards the door.
James grimaced and covered his nose. "Ever heard of dental hygiene, bub?" he quipped, but the man seemed unfazed.
Bucky gave a simple nod in response, "Hai."
Acknowledging their need, the man gestured for them to stand back. He then unleashed a thick plume of corrosive acid from his mouth, melting the lock and eating through the door with remarkable efficiency.
After the door was sufficiently dissolved, James blinked twice. "Huh…" His earlier disgust was replaced with awe. "Never mind then."
Izuku and Bucky both bowed in gratitude, replying, "Arigatou!"
The acid-spewing prisoner gave a toothless smile and quick thumbs-up before rejoining the jubilant prisoners. "Let's get moving!" Izuku urged, leading Bucky and James through the newly melted doorway, resuming their urgent mission toward the isolation ward.
Warden Tagara strode into his office, his footsteps echoing through the room with a heavy, measured pace. Upon reaching his desk, he pulled out a digital tablet from the top drawer and swiftly unlocked it with his passcode.
Before he could delve further, his radio crackled to life, startling him. "Warden Tagara, sir?" the operator's voice came through, tinged with nervousness.
Tagara pulled the radio off his belt, his voice cold and authoritative. "Report. Have the guards contained the situation in Cellblock 1?"
There was a brief pause on the other end, then the operator replied hesitantly, "No, sir. The... uh, the guards were overpowered and locked in a cell. The prisoners—they've been freed and are moving through the facility."
Fury washed over Tagara's features. "Incompetent fools!" he snapped. "Where are they heading now? Tell me!"
"They seem to be heading towards the loading dock, sir, the same one as the Cellblock 2 prisoners."
"Is that star-spangled man and his two cronies among them?" Warden asked.
"No, sir. Those three appear to be making their way towards the isolation ward, sir."
Tagara's hand tightened around the radio as he processed the information, a mixture of anger and anxiety tightening his chest. He realized with a sinking feeling what the trio's target was—the very place where Hydra Supreme was conducting assessments.
"Ensure the bay doors are locked down. And authorize the guards everywhere to use lethal force! Do not allow any prisoner to escape!" He ordered sharply.
"U-Understood, sir. Are you... are you okay?" the operator asked, noting the warden's unusually tense tone.
Tagara didn't bother to mask his frustration. "Just do as you're told," he snapped, and then placed the radio back on his belt.
With a heavy sigh, he pulled out his phone, his fingers hovering over the screen for a moment before tapping a contact he had hoped not to call. As the phone rang, he paced briefly in front of the window, watching the rain streak down the glass.
In the chilling atmosphere of the isolation ward, All For One had just extracted the Meta-Abilities from Prisoners 205 and 206. He then turned his attention to the two young boys, Kudo and Bruce. His voice was soft yet laden with ominous intent as he addressed them, "Prisoners 222 and 333, I truly regret the demise of your parents; it was an unintended consequence."
He stepped closer, his presence dominating the room like a predator closing in on its prey. "Your abilities are what I sought, yet your parents obstructed my path. Unfortunately, those who impede me inevitably face grim fates."
The boys huddled closer, their bodies trembling in terror as All For One extended his hand toward them, his intention clear.
On the sidelines, Zak caught the raw fear in their eyes. The sight stirred a deep and uncomfortable memory of his own helplessness at the hands of the Renegades. He wondered if he had looked as petrified as these children did at that moment.
Fueled by a rush of protective anger, Zak rose from the bench, his fists clenched tightly. "Leave them alone, bastard!" he shouted, his voice resonating powerfully through the concrete confines of the ward.
Haruka's eyes widened in shock. "W-what're you doing?!" She whispered harshly.
All For One paused and turned to face Zak, a slight smile playing on his lips. "My English is a bit rusty."
He then stepped towards a visibly frightened Haruka. Gently but firmly grasping her face, red energy poured from her and into All For One.
After the power transferred, his smile broadened, and he continued in flawless English, "But I am a quick learner. Now, what were you saying, Prisoner 999?"
Momentarily taken aback by the sudden fluency, Zak regained his composure. "Let the kids go," he demanded, his voice thick with defiance. "You've taken enough from them already. Besides, whatever lame powers they have can't compare to mine."
A chuckle escaped All For One as he released Haruka, who slumped, overwhelmed and disoriented. "You may be right. However, I often save the best for last." He turned back towards Kudo and Bruce, who backed away in fear. "So just wait your turn."
Just as he was about to reach for Kudo, the sinister atmosphere was interrupted by the sound of a phone ringing. All For One glanced at the caller ID and his expression turned into a frown. "Excuse me, this will only take a moment," he said politely, stepping away to the door.
All For One answered the phone, his tone shifting to a formal Japanese. "Tagara, have you identified the cause of the explosion?"
"Y-yes, Supreme One… It was triggered by a man in a star-spangled suit," Tagara replied hesitantly.
A flash of recognition crossed All For One's eyes. "Has he been contained?"
"N-negative, sir. He has bypassed our security, releasing prisoners from both cellblocks. He is en route to your location now," Tagara informed, his voice laced with urgency.
"I see," All For One murmured, his voice a calm contrast to the tension on the line.
"S-Sir! I will intercept them! I will not let them reach you–"
"Enough." All For One cut him off sharply, his tone icy. "I will handle this star-spangled man myself. You are to contain the outbreak. If you fail, Tagara, consider your position redundant."
Ending the call, All For One's gaze hardened with determination. He addressed the remaining prisoners, "I must attend to an urgent matter. We will resume shortly." He then exited swiftly, leaving behind a tense silence.
Zak, frustrated and anxious, strained against his handcuffs, his muscles bulging fruitlessly. "Dammit! Come off!" he grunted, though his attempts were in vain with the power-dampening collar activated.
His efforts paused as Kudo and Bruce exchanged murmurs, their eyes darting towards him.
"Hey," Zak turned to Haruka, seeking clarification, "did you catch what they said?"
Haruka, looking equally perplexed and weary, shook her head. "ごめんなさい。いいえ、分かりません。。。" ("I'm sorry. I do not understand…") she muttered.
A tense silence enveloped the room as Warden Tagara wrestled with the weight of Hydra Supreme's ominous warning. His fingers trembled slightly over the sleek surface of his digital tablet, reflecting the turmoil stirring within him. Taking a deep breath to steady himself, his eyes ignited with a resolute fire, casting aside any lingering doubt. He briskly tapped a sequence of commands into the tablet.
Moments later, the office was filled with a faint mechanical whir as a seemingly innocuous panel along the back wall began to separate. The edges glowed faintly, outlining a door that slid aside with a quiet hiss, revealing a hidden room veiled in shadow.
Tagara stood at the threshold, his silhouette framed by the soft light emanating from within. He paused, his voice carrying a mix of reluctance and resolve. "I never thought I'd have to use this…" His gaze lingered on the obscured contents of the room, a hint of grim satisfaction mixing with the gravity of the situation.
Stepping inside, he continued, "But it seems when you live among wolves, occasionally, you must bare your fangs."
As the alarms continued to blare through Tsurugi Peak Detention Center, Peggy led the surge of the 9th Infantry survivors and Cellblock 2 prisoners with urgency. Their progress was slowed by the narrow corridors, which confined the movement of the large group.
Upon reaching a locked door at the end of a corridor, Namor, with little effort, busted it down, allowing the group to spill into an expansive truck bay used for unloading supplies. Peggy's gaze immediately swept to two hefty sliding doors at the far end of the bay. 'Izu-kun must've known these would be our best shot for a quick exit,' she thought.
Rushing to a control panel beside the doors, Peggy examined the buttons and attempted to open the doors, but to no avail. "They've locked down everything," she muttered in frustration.
"Those doors are unusually thick," Nick observed, eyeing the robust panels. "Never seen sliding doors built like fortresses."
"Must be a precaution in case of an outbreak," Sharon added, her voice tense.
Namor crouched and grasped onto one of the doors, his muscles tensing as he attempted to force it open. Despite his formidable strength, the doors remained immovable. "It won't budge," he growled, wiping sweat from his brow. "If only there was some water around..." He murmured to himself.
Peggy spun around, scanning the crowd. "Does anyone have an ability that can—"
Her call was abruptly interrupted as a squad of guards burst into the bay from various entrances, their Glock 19s aimed directly at the prisoners. "降伏しなさい、さもないと撃ちます!" ("Surrender, or we will shoot!") they commanded sharply in Japanese.
Peggy quickly assessed the dire situation. Over thirty guards, their weapons trained on the densely packed group, posed a deadly threat. The tight quarters of the bay amplified the risk, providing the guards with a lethal advantage.
Gritting her teeth, Peggy weighed her options, her mind racing for a solution to avert a potential massacre.
Before Peggy could issue any command, a deep rumbling was heard. Suddenly, a door was bust down as over a hundred prisoners filed into the bay. Leading the charge was a figure reminiscent of a mythical creature—a man resembling a humanoid locomotive.
His robust, metal-clad body barreled through the guards as though they were mere paper. "Chug-a-chug-a-chug-a! Kishin knows he can!" he thundered, his voice echoing like a train whistle.
The guards were quickly overwhelmed; the prisoners, fueled by their sheer numbers and the element of surprise, disarmed and subdued many. The few remaining guards, recognizing the futility of their position, hastily retreated.
Some of the 9th Infantry immediately ran over to confiscate the guns on the ground, arming themselves.
"Where did they all come from?" Sharon exclaimed, taken aback.
Peggy exhaled deeply, a wry smile forming. "I have a feeling this is Izu-kun's handiwork."
Kishin, the locomotive-man, turned his gaze to the sealed doors ahead. "Hey! What's blocking the track ahead?" he called out, his tone both curious and amused.
Frustrated yet hopeful, Peggy yelled back in Japanese, "The bay doors are sealed shut. We can't open them!"
Kishin's laughter boomed through the bay, sounding akin to a steam whistle. "Nothing I can't break!" he proclaimed confidently. "Everyone clear the track!"
Everyone promptly moved aside, clearing a direct path to the doors.
Kishin bellowed, "Chug-a-chug-a-chug-a!" With those words, he charged forward like a runaway train, every step he took shook the earth. His collision with the door produced a thunderous crash. The bay door buckled and tore from its tracks, clattering to the wet ground outside.
Cheers erupted from the survivors and meta-prisoners alike as they streamed into the rainy courtyard, their voices a chorus of liberation.
"A human train?" Sharon, running beside Peggy, laughed incredulously. "Some Meta-Abilities are just absurd."
Peggy smirked, glancing back at the freed prisoners. "Everyone's quirky in their own way, I guess." She then raised her voice, shouting instructions in both English and Japanese, "Everyone, to the west gate! Head through the recycling center!"
Replies of "Yes, ma'am!" and "Hai!" echo through the storm-swept courtyard.
However, the group hadn't progressed far before the sharp cracks of gunfire split the air. Guards stationed on the watchtowers had clear orders to use lethal force. As bullets rained down, the group scattered, seeking cover. Dozens of prisoners were struck down, their cries piercing the tumult.
Peggy, Sharon, Nick, and Namor quickly took cover behind a large dumpster, pressing themselves against the cold, wet concrete. Around them, other prisoners dashed for the safety of building corners, trying to evade the watchtowers' relentless fire; many fell before finding shelter. Their bodies collapsed lifelessly to the ground with blood pouring out and mixing with the rain.
Nearby, a pair of 9th Infantry soldiers clutched pistols they had seized from guards. "Up there! Take aim and—" Before they could act, they too were cut down, their weapons clattering to the ground.
Peggy's gaze snapped to the fallen pistols. "I need a gun!" she shouted, her voice carrying over the storm's roar and the cries of prisoners.
Sharon, peering warily from their makeshift barricade, countered, "Trying to get to those guns is suicide without cover!"
Their argument was abruptly interrupted by Kishin's thunderous arrival. Striding into the open, his metal-plated arms were raised defiantly, shielding himself from the bullets. "Can't stop this train!" he boomed, his voice resonating above the chaos.
Peggy saw an opportunity. "Train-man!" she yelled in Japanese.
The towering figure turned, a hint of annoyance flickering across his face. "It's Kishin, not Train-man," he corrected, unfazed as bullets pinged harmlessly off his armored body.
"Fine, Kishin! I need cover to reach those pistols," Peggy called out, gesturing urgently towards the fallen weapons.
Kishin's face lit up with a mischievous grin. "Understood. I'll block their fire for you," he declared, giving a confident thumbs up before marching towards the pistols.
As Kishin advanced, drawing the guards' fire, Peggy dashed from behind the dumpster, crouching low behind him. While the guards redirected their aim toward her, Kishin's formidable form served as a moving barricade, shielding Peggy as she moved to retrieve the guns.
Peggy slid to the muddy ground, swiftly grabbing both pistols. She cast a quick glance at her fallen comrades and whispered determinedly, "I'll avenge you boys."
"You got the guns, toots? Hope your aim is good!" Kishin bellowed from ahead. "That's gotta be a 50-meter shot!"
Tucking in behind Kishin's broad metal back, Peggy steadied her aim. Despite the considerable distance—challenging for a pistol—her shots were remarkably precise.
One by one, guards in the tower cried out as they were hit, clutching their shoulders and wrists, incapacitated by her accurate fire. Soon, the hostile crackle of gunfire ceased, replaced only by the steady drumming of rain.
Many of the prisoners looked on in stunned silence.
Kishin let out an impressed whistle. "I stand corrected. That's some incredible aim, gal!"
Peggy checked the ammunition in the pistols. "It's nothing," she muttered under her breath before looking up at Kishin. "Mind keeping us covered?"
"Absolutely, if it gets us to freedom," Kishin replied enthusiastically, flashing another thumbs up.
With Kishin resuming his lead, the liberated prisoners surged forward, their spirits lifted as they followed him toward the recycling center.
As they sprinted through the dimly lit corridors of the detention center, Izuku suddenly slowed, signaling to Bucky and James to stop. "The isolation ward is just around this corner," he whispered.
James, his senses heightened, inhaled deeply, his nose twitching. "Hold up," he murmured, his expression turning serious. "I smell something... off. Dangerous."
Before anyone could respond, a voice speaking in fluent English echoed down the corridor, chilling despite its casual tone. "Captain America! Is that you?"
The trio tensed immediately, recognizing the threat in the voice. It was coming from the adjacent hallway ahead—the direct route to the isolation ward's main entrance.
Quickly assessing the situation, Izuku gestured sharply with his hands, signaling a change of plans. He pointed towards an alternative route that would still lead them to their destination.
Bucky frowned, looking as if he wanted to challenge the decision, but James caught his arm, giving him a firm shake of the head. Understanding the urgency, Bucky nodded reluctantly and mouthed, "We'll circle back," before he and James quietly retreated down the hallway, taking another corridor that branched off to the left.
Izuku took a deep breath to steady himself and adjusted his grip on his shield before boldly stepping into the corridor from which the voice had emanated. There, standing in front of the isolation ward's lobby, was a man dressed in a pristine black suit. His appearance was deceptively normal, save for his stark white hair, yet Izuku could sense a sinister aura emanating from him.
'Howlett was right. There is something dangerous about him…' Izuku thought warily.
The man broke the silence. "I presume you're planning to free the prisoners in isolation, Captain? Unfortunately, you'll find none here."
Izuku remained stoic, careful not to reveal his awareness of the man's deception.
The man continued, his voice tinged with a dark amusement. "All exits of this building have been locked down. The doors are heavily reinforced, so you won't be able to simply bust them down." His grin widened menacingly. "Not that I intend to let you get past me in the first place, but I always have contingencies in mind."
Izuku recognized the man's seeming ignorance about Bucky and Howlett's whereabouts. 'Good, he doesn't know about them. I need to keep him talking and buy them some time,' he thought.
Facing the enigmatic man squarely, Izuku responded calmly, "It appears you have me at a disadvantage."
"In more ways than you know Captain," the man returned with a knowing chuckle. "I suppose you could consider me something of your biggest fan. I must admit, I've watched recordings of each of your rallies back in the States. You have quite the presence—a god amongst mortals, one might say."
"I'm no better than anyone else, I assure you," Izuku muttered. "Just a man trying to do the right thing. You seem to know who I am, but I haven't caught your name yet."
The man's smug smile widened. "Feigned ignorance doesn't suit men of our stature, Captain. The mindless sheep may be content in their ignorance, but we are destined for greater things. We are both creations of Dr. Hatsume's genius, after all."
Izuku's eyes widened, a mix of shock and realization dawning on him. This was the man himself—the leader of Hydra, the notorious wielder of a Meta-Ability that could steal and transfer others' powers, who had coerced Dr. Hatsume into developing the super-soldier serum.
"All For One…" he whispered, fighting back a growl, his voice seemingly echoing in the enclosed space despite the lowered volume.
He managed a smirk despite his rising anger. "I have to admit, I pictured you taller. Or perhaps in a horned helmet and an edge lord cape. My mother always said I had an overactive imagination."
"Indeed," All For One chuckled steely, smoothing his pristine suit. "Though my tastes are more refined than the typical villain attire. Though I once considered a sinister mask, I find it unnecessary now."
He continued, his interest piqued, "I'm much more curious about you. I was already a monster among men before Dr. Hatsume, but her work made me a true Demon Lord. You, however, go from a frail child to a heroic Super-Soldier. Tell me, how does it feel to shed your mortal limitations and rise above the common herd…Midoriya Izuku?"
Izuku subtly flinched, taken aback that All For One knew his full name.
"The transformation was profound, I must say," All For One observed, scrutinizing Izuku's form. "Your original state was pitiful, making even my own pathetic little brother seem athletic in comparison. And while your improvements don't match my own, I can't help but applaud our dearly departed friend. Dr. Hatsume was a true visionary and an absolute miracle worker.
"Why, I'd dare say that I'd consider you more my brother than my own flesh and blood one at this point." His expression darkened, "Or perhaps, I should see you as a son, given our shared origin and your youthful exuberance?"
"And is that how you treat your friends, your family?" Izuku nearly snarled in reply. "By threatening and killing for your own gain?! Is that why you ordered Teruko's death?! Because I'd hardly believe any self-respecting Demon Lord would be unable to control their own underlings' actions!"
"Her death was…unfortunate, but necessary." All For One responded with a dismissive shrug, as if discussing something trivial. "She was invaluable to my ascension, yet her brilliance was a double-edged sword. And as you should know, Captain, there can be only one king."
"You are no king," Izuku declared firmly. "People aren't chess pieces or tools for your use. Men like you are nothing more than tyrants. And as the saying goes, 'Sic semper tyrannis'."
"How quaint, your idealism," All For One cackled, clearly amused. "But we live in a different world now. Let's see how far your antiquated ideals take you in the face of true power."
The isolation ward was eerily silent until the back door of a fire escape clanged open. Bucky and James ascended the stairs and stepped into a stark, dimly lit corridor. They moved purposefully; their steps nearly silent against the cold concrete floor.
"Can't help but wonder how Shorty knew about that alternate route?" James murmured, his voice a low rumble in the quiet. "It's like he memorized the prison's blueprint or somethin'."
"However he knew, I'm just glad he did," Bucky replied. "Can you track them with your senses?"
Taking a deep breath through his nose, James nodded. "Yeah, I can smell six people further down the hall." He paused, a frown creasing his brow. "I can smell that dangerous scent too. It was here recently..."
Bucky's stomach tightened with anxiety. He hoped Haruka and the others were safe.
They quickened their pace down the corridor until James halted in front of a heavy metal door. Peering through the sliding viewport, Bucky saw a group of prisoners who immediately perked up at his presence. In the center was Zak, futilely trying to pull apart his cuffs.
And then he saw her.
"Haruka!" Bucky exclaimed, swiftly unlocking the cell door.
Haruka, who had been sitting despondently on a bench, leaped to her feet with a look of hope. "Barnes-san!" she called out, her voice a mixture of relief and surprise, tinged with a thick accent.
As the door swung open, Bucky rushed in and was immediately enveloped in a hug by Haruka, her cuffed hands wrapping tightly around his neck. Bucky was momentarily caught off guard but quickly returned the hug, pulling her close–relieved to see she was alive.
Zak, meanwhile, rolled his eyes and turned away, muttering under his breath in annoyance.
"Ain't that touching," James said as he entered the room, his gaze quickly shifting to two young boys, Kudo and Bruce. He moved over to unlock their cuffs and power-dampeners, the keys and keycard clinking softly in his hands.
"The hell are kids doing here?" James muttered to himself, his voice edged with anger and concern.
Overhearing him, Zak replied grimly, "Hydra. Bastards killed their parents and brought them here."
"Disgusting," James snarled with revulsion. After freeing Kudo and Bruce, the two boys bowed deeply and each murmured a grateful "Arigatou!"
"Don't mention it," James responded gruffly, then turned to Zak. "So, who'd you piss off to end up here, MVP?"
Zak scoffed and shook his head. "No one. We weren't brought here for punishment." His tone turned grave. "How'd you get free? What's happening out there?"
James swiftly unlocked Zak's cuffs and deactivated his collar, letting it clang to the floor. Red scars were visible on his neck, a testament to the injuries he had sustained from Wade Shockley's jellyfish-esque attacks.
"There's a prison break going on. And Captain America himself is here to lead it."
While Zak rubbed his chafed neck, his eyes widened in disbelief. "That guy's here?"
"That's right. Mister USA himself, rubber suit and all." James remarked before quickly turning to free the other prisoners.
Meanwhile, Bucky, having stepped away from Haruka, began unlocking her cuffs with a set of keys. "Are you hurt? Did they do anything to you?" he asked urgently, scanning her for any visible injuries.
As the cuffs clinked to the floor, Haruka responded with a puzzled expression, "わかんない" ("I don't understand.")
"What do you mean?" Bucky frowned, his expression one of confusion. "This isn't the time for jokes. Are you okay?"
Haruka shook her head sadly, her voice soft. "もう英語がわからないんですよ、バーンズさん。" ("I don't understand English anymore, Barnes-san.")
Bewildered, Bucky turned to Zak for an explanation.
Zak's expression turned grim. "All For One was here. He's stealing powers from prisoners."
Bucky and James both tensed at the mention of All For One. Bucky's expression hardened. "He's here?" He then addressed Haruka in his basic Japanese, "メタ能力が盗まれたのか?" ("Was your meta-ability stolen?")
She nodded, her eyes downcast.
Meanwhile, Zak picked up his former power-dampener collar from the floor, examining it thoughtfully. 'I wonder…'
Frustrated, Bucky pressed Zak further, "Did he steal everyone else's ability too?"
Looping the collar around his arm, Zak gestured toward Prisoners 205 and 206. "Only those two poor bastards. He took a call and left before he could get to me and the kids."
James's instincts suddenly flared. "The danger I smelled… It's got to be him then! Which means Shorty is facing that monster alone!"
Eyes widening in alarm, Bucky immediately ushered the small group. "C'mon! Let's move–every second counts! どうぞ、フォローしてください!" ("Please, follow!")
Now unshackled, the prisoners followed him out of the room and into the corridor.
At the back, Zak trudged along, his brows knitted in confusion. "Who the hell's Shorty?"
In the dim corridor outside the isolation ward's lobby, Izuku stood ready, his stance wide and alert. His heater shield, adorned with the star-spangled pattern, gleamed faintly under the flickering lights. Opposite him, the imposing figure of All For One surveyed him with a curious gaze.
"Let's begin," All For One declared, charging forward in a sudden blur of motion.
With reflexes honed by his training, Izuku pivoted to his right, recalling the krav maga techniques he had mastered. Employing a fundamental move—a burst outward—he evaded the direct assault. He then swung his shield upward, the edges catching All For One's face, throwing him off balance.
This momentary advantage allowed Izuku to execute a series of controlled, yet forceful strikes. His moves, designed for maximum impact, were lethal combinations of krav maga and his super-soldier enhanced strength. 'I dare not hold back against someone like him!' he thought resolutely.
Izuku thrust his shield forward as a feint, quickly following with a sharp elbow strike to All For One's midsection. As the villain doubled over, Izuku leveraged his momentum to unleash a powerful roundhouse kick, sending All For One crashing into the wall. The impact buckled the drywall, sending a cloud of dust into the air.
All For One grimaced as he extricated himself from the debris, a grin slowly forming on his face. "I'm pleased to know your 'captain' title isn't just for show," he remarked, dusting off his suit. "Your fighting skills are exceptional."
Izuku responded not with words but with a hardened determination that creased his brow. He drew a pistol from his belt, aiming it squarely at All For One's head. The corridor fell into a tense silence, broken only by the distant sound of alarms and the chaos outside.
"You have no idea," Izuku stated, his voice low and steady, his aim unwavering.
Despite having a gun pointed squarely at him, All For One grinned darkly, the corners of his mouth turning upward in a sinister smirk. "Haven't I?" he taunted.
Before Izuku could react, an invisible force yanked the gun from his grasp, pulling it effortlessly into All For One's hand. Rather than use it, he simply closed his fist, crushing the metal into a useless lump of scrap with his bare hands.
With a malevolent chuckle, All For One charged forward, his arm pulled back for a strike. "Spearlike Bones! Kinetic Booster! Springlike Limbs!"
Bony protrusions sprouted from his right arm, muscles bulging and coiling, energized by a reddish-black aura crackling around him.
Izuku sensed the impending danger and braced himself, lifting his shield to intercept the attack. However, All For One's punch, supercharged and brutal, tore through the steel shield as if it were mere paper, narrowly missing Izuku's head. The residual force of the blow was enough to send Izuku flying backward off his feet and down the corridor, slamming into the drywall which crumbled upon impact.
His shield clanged to the floor; a gaping hole torn through its center.
All For One regarded Izuku with a mocking expression, his voice chillingly calm. "Do you see now, the gap in power between us?" His voice was chillingly calm, his eyes gleaming with cruelty. "I was merely utilizing the enhanced strength granted by the serum–observing how far Hatsume's enhancements have taken your body. Impressive, indeed, but still far below my own standard."
Grimacing, Izuku struggled to pull himself from the wreckage of the wall. Dust and debris clung to his costume as he steadied himself on shaky legs.
AFO's voice continued, cold and merciless, "My Meta-Ability, along with the ones I've appropriated, are all enhanced by Hatsume's serum too. I truly possess the powers of a god." His sneer grew more disdainful as he surveyed Izuku's battered form.
"What will you do now, faced with such an insurmountable force, Captain? Will you retreat? Or perhaps beg for mercy?" His tone was dripping with condescension, the words designed to intimidate. "After all, those seem to be the only realistic options available to you."
However, Izuku rose to his feet, his fists clenched, ready to continue the fight. His resolve was clear in his steady, defiant gaze.
"You still wish to fight? Even though you know it's pointless..." All For One's voice trailed off, his expression a mix of amusement and disbelief.
Izuku spat out a mouthful of blood, his voice gritty but unwavering. "I can do this all day."
All For One regarded Izuku with a piercing gaze, the defiance in Izuku's emerald eyes sparking a flicker of recognition. It reminded him unnervingly of his younger brother, Yoichi.
With a sneer, AFO muttered to himself, "Now I see why she chose you."
He spoke aloud, his voice tinged with mocking resolve. "Very well. If you wish to die in battle like a good little soldier, Captain," he bulked up his right arm again, bony spikes protruding menacingly from his fist, "then I shall oblige you."
Just as he prepared to charge, a sudden barrage of bullets rang out, striking AFO squarely in his torso. "AAAGGHH!" He cried out in pained shock
From an adjacent hallway, James burst into the scene. "Nice claws yah got there," he quipped as he leaped up, driving his own bone-claws straight through AFO's chest. "Let's see how you like mine!"
With a forceful pull, James disengaged, using AFO as a springboard to vault back. Before AFO could regain his bearings, Zak charged in.
"FUCKING DIPSHIT!" With his arm reared back, he delivered a thunderous punch directly into AFO's gut. The impact was so powerful it sent AFO careening back through the wall, leaving him semi-conscious amid a pile of rubble.
Zak loosened and then clenched his fist, a satisfied grin spreading across his face. "Feels so good to cut loose."
From behind a corner of an adjacent corridor, Kudo, Bruce, Haruka, Prisoner 205, and 206 peeked out, their eyes wide with awe.
Kudo and Bruce, caught up in the excitement, exchanged looks. "So cool…" they whispered in unison, their faces alight with boyish enthusiasm.
"Did they really get him?" Prisoner 205 asked, his voice thick with disbelief.
"Has to be dead, right?" Prisoner 206 added. "After all that…"
Haruka, however, bit her lip, her expression clouded with worry. "I don't think it'll be that easy…" she murmured, her intuition telling her that the battle was far from over.
Bucky approached Izuku, the smoke wafting from his pistol's barrel. "You alright, man?"
Izuku managed a weary smile. "I had him on the ropes," he claimed.
"Sure," Bucky responded, his tone lighthearted.
Izuku turned to Zak, a wave of relief washing over him upon seeing that he was unharmed. "Good to see you again, Powerball. Or should I say, Private Powers now?"
The brunet returned Izuku's gaze, a flicker of respect evident in his hazel eyes. "Long time no see, Star-Spangled Man."
"I see you've gotten stronger," Izuku noted.
Zak shrugged, his expression nonchalant. "Yeah, well, I joined the Army."
The group turned towards All For One, who lay amidst the debris of the shattered wall.
"So that's Hydra's big boss, huh?" Bucky smirked, his voice tinged with sarcasm. "Was expecting more. Gotta say, I'm disappointed."
"He ain't finished," James interjected seriously, his eyes fixed on the fallen foe. "Look."
To their astonishment, the bloody wounds on All For One began to close, his flesh knitting together right before their eyes.
"Rapid regeneration," Izuku analyzed quickly.
"Just like Howlett," Bucky added. He glanced at his pistol, noting the dwindling ammunition. "We might be in a pickle."
"No, we're not," Zak suddenly declared, stepping boldly towards All For One.
"Wait, Zak! Don't—" Izuku's warning was cut short as Zak swiftly pulled a power-dampener collar from his arm and snapped it around All For One's neck, activating it.
Instantly, the villain's wounds stopped healing, and his mutated, bony arm reverted to normal.
"There," Zak said with a smug grin. "Not so fun having your power restricted. Is it, tough guy?"
Zak's taunts were interrupted as the flesh on All For One's head suddenly began to peel away.
Zak stepped back, startled by the change.
As All For One lay immobilized, a gruesome transformation began to unfold before the group's eyes. Initially, it was subtle—a slight loosening of the skin on his face, almost imperceptible. But within moments, the changes accelerated dramatically. The skin on his cheeks started to sag and dissolve, peeling away in strips that dripped and pooled on the ground like melting wax. His nose, once prominent and defiant, softened and collapsed, the cartilage disintegrating to reveal the hollow, dark cavities of his nasal passages.
"What the…" James's voice trailed off in disbelief.
Down the hallway, the other prisoners watched in stunned horror. Kudo and Bruce stared wide-eyed at the grotesque transformation until Haruka quickly intervened. She rushed to cover their eyes, attempting to shield the boys from the chilling sight.
The albino hair that crowned AFO's head clung for a moment longer before it too began to wither and disintegrate, each strand shriveling and falling away as if scorched by invisible flames. Beneath the rapidly deteriorating flesh, a vivid Red Skull began to emerge. The skull was stark, the bone polished and smooth, glowing with an eerie luminescence.
His eyes, once lively and piercing, now sank into deep, shadowed sockets, glowing with a chilling crimson light. The entire process was not only grotesque but deeply unsettling.
Zak muttered in shocked disgust. "You. Are one. Ugly. Mother fucker…"
Bucky, visibly unsettled, turned to Izuku. "You don't have one of those, do you?"
Through his transformed, skeletal visage, All For One began to laugh—a chilling, hollow sound that echoed down the corridor—sending a shiver up everyone's spines. Despite his bullet and stab wounds, he looked up at the group, the crimson light glowing ominously in his eye sockets.
"It appears you have me at a disadvantage," he rasped, his voice echoing with a menacing joy.
The chaos in Tsurugi Peak's recycling sector was palpable, with the din of gunfire and explosions reverberating through the air. Prisoners pushed forward relentlessly, some utilizing their Meta-Abilities to strike offensively, while others, armed with pistols scavenged from fallen guards, returned fire with precision.
At the forefront of the charge was Kishin, the humanoid locomotive. "Chug-a-chug-a! Outta the way! We have a schedule to keep!" he boomed.
His robust, metal-clad body was a formidable asset, effortlessly bulldozing through the makeshift barriers set up by desperate guards. Bullets merely ricocheted off his armored exterior, his momentum seemingly unstoppable until a subtle change began to manifest.
"Man, this guy's a tank!" Nick exclaimed, his voice a mix of awe and relief. "Glad he's on our side."
"Sure, but look closer," Peggy observed, her gaze sharp. "He's starting to slow down."
"Really?" Nick squinted ahead at Kishin. "I hadn't noticed."
"It's subtle," Peggy noted, "but he's losing steam—no pun intended."
Nick studied Kishin more carefully and noticed the steam rising off his body. "It's the rain," he realized aloud. "It must be cooling him down."
Sharon looked puzzled. "Isn't that good?"
Nick shook his head, a frown forming. "Not for a steam engine. If he cools down too much, he'll lose power."
As the large group neared Bay 9, the guards who had been stationed there to put out the fire turned their hoses from the ongoing flames to the advancing prisoners.
"彼らにそれを持たせてください!" One shouted. ("Let them have it!")
High-pressure water jets blasted towards the prisoners, attempting to push them back. Peggy, caught off-guard, was among those who were knocked back. In the process, the satellite phone in her pocket flew out, landing on the ground only to be inadvertently crushed under Kishin's heavy foot.
Peggy noticed this and cursed under breath, "Dammit…"
Steam hissed off Kishin's body as the cold water hit him, causing his temperature to drop rapidly. "Ugh… Running out of steam here" Kishin grumbled, his movements becoming more sluggish.
One guard noticed the impact the water was having on Kishin and shouted to the others, "これからも頑張ってください!バックアップが到着するまで彼にスプレーしてください!" ("Keep it up! Spray him down until backup arrives!")
Meanwhile, Namor felt the rain soaking into his skin, invigorating him with each drop. His eyes closed momentarily as he focused, channeling the energy from the water around him. With a sudden surge of power, he manipulated the water streams directed at Kishin, turning them against the guards.
The powerful jets swept the guards off their feet, scattering them like leaves in a storm.
Sharon, witnessing Namor's display of power, gasped in awe. "Did he just...?"
Nick, not nearly as surprised, nodded appreciatively. "There's a reason McKenzie was the top recruit from the Navy, Carter. Water's his playground."
As the incapacitated guards lay scattered, the prisoners quickly moved to disarm them and secure the area. Tensions escalated when one particularly enraged prisoner stood over a guard, his hands morphing into sharp, spear-like appendages.
"お前は俺たちを苦しめた...今度はあなたの番です!" The prisoner declared venomously. ("You made us suffer... now it's your turn!")
The guard, defenseless and terrified, pleaded for mercy."だめですそれは!私には家族がいます!" ("No, please! I have family!")
Before the prisoner could strike, Namor intervened, seizing the prisoner's arm with an unyielding grip. The man glared at Namor incredulously. "手を放せ、アメリカ人!彼と他の者たちはそれに値する。" He shouted. ("Let go, American! He and the others deserve it.")
Namor didn't respond verbally, but his firm, disapproving gaze spoke volumes. It clearly conveyed the message: 'If you murder him, then you deserve to stay here.'
Breathing heavily, the prisoner's anger began to subside as reason took over. Slowly, his hands returned to normal. "Right... thanks," he murmured in accented English, a hint of shame in his voice as he realized the gravity of his actions.
Namor nodded, understanding the tumult of emotions the man was experiencing. He gave the prisoner's shoulder a reassuring pat, then turned his attention to the terrified guard. Offering a brief apology for the scare, Namor quickly knocked him out with a swift, controlled strike. He picked up the dropped pistol, checking its condition before signaling the pacified prisoner to join the others. Relieved, the prisoner complied, blending back into the group as they prepared to move forward.
The tension hung heavily in the air as Peggy knelt beside Kishin, who was visibly struggling to maintain his usual vigor amidst the dampening rain. "Alright there, big guy?" she asked in Japanese, her voice laden with concern.
Kishin managed a toothy grin, his response tinged with both frustration and humor. "Heh… Just need a sec to get my fire going again," he replied, attempting to gather his strength.
Peggy nodded understandingly, then turned to Nick and Sharon, who were vigilantly scanning the surroundings for additional threats. "He just needs a minute," she reassured them.
"Really glad you can understand Japanese, Sarg," Nick remarked with a hint of relief. "It'd make things a lot harder otherwise."
At that moment, Namor approached, his expression serious as he handed Peggy a pistol. "Sergeant," he said simply.
"Thanks," Peggy nodded, checking the magazine. "Was running low on ammo."
Sharon chimed in. "We're close to the gate, Sergeant. Maybe you can call in those reinforcements now?"
"That's not happening," Peggy replied with a grimace, gesturing to the crushed remains of her satellite phone.
Kishin, misunderstanding, shrugged apologetically.
Sharon sighed heavily. "Perfect..."
"Guess there's no 'get to the choppa' moment for us then," Nick bemoaned the missed cinematic exit.
Peggy stood, setting her jaw firmly. "It's fine. We'll make it on our own," she declared, pistol ready. With a new resolve, she led the group towards the west gate. "Everyone, stay close and follow us!" she instructed, her voice cutting through the noise of the storm and the distant sounds of conflict.
As they moved, the group behind them rallied to her call.
High above the chaotic scramble below, two guards perched in the west gate's watchtower, their eyes scanning the advancing prisoners. One guard, a young man with a nervous twitch, glanced over at his partner, an older, more seasoned officer.
"This is insane," the younger guard muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "There's so many… There's no way we can stop them all."
The older guard shook his head, his expression grim. "Certainly looks that way," he agreed. He turned to the younger officer, his voice laced with resignation. "Son, we may just need to cut our losses. We're not paid enough to die here."
Before the younger guard could respond, the static crackle of the radio cut through the tension.
"This is the warden. Those stationed at the west gate towers, hold your positions," Warden Tagara's voice commanded through the radio. "Backup is on its way. This prison break ends now."
The older guard grabbed the radio, pressing the button to respond. "Copy that, Warden. Holding position."
As they set the radio down, the younger guard looked at his partner, his expression one of confusion. "Does the warden have some kind of plan?"
"He must… Or he's just stubborn," the older guard remarked dryly.
"Wait…" The younger guard's attention shifted suddenly as he noticed something through the stormy darkness. He pointed towards an object that was flying in the air. "What's that over there?"
"Hold on…" the older guard trailed off, his eyes widening as he squinted into the distance. "Is that…?"
"Ha-ha-ha!" Kishin bellowed as he charged forward, each step thundering against the ground, causing vibrations that sent tremors through the air. Plumes of smoke billowed from his back funnel, marking his path with a trail of dark clouds.
"What's going on?" Sharon asked, confused. "I thought the rain was making him lethargic."
"Must be a last burst of energy," Nick surmised.
"Came at the right time," Peggy commented.
The west gate stood imposingly before the group, a formidable barrier constructed of thick steel and flanked by towering watchtowers.
Kishin's eyes sparkled with the promise of freedom, a fierce glow emanating from within. "So close! Freedom station is in sight!" he declared, his inner fire igniting even hotter, propelling him forward with renewed vigor despite his fatigue.
As they approached the gate, a van screeched into view, halting abruptly in front of the gate and effectively blocking their path. Doors flew open, and a squadron of guards clad in riot gear quickly disembarked. Armed with rifles and shields, they formed a defensive line. Simultaneously, several guards appeared in the watchtowers, taking aim with their weapons trained precisely on the advancing prisoners.
Despite the overwhelming odds, Kishin couldn't suppress a laugh. "You can't stop this train to freedom, fools!" His voice booming and resonant against the cold metal of the gate.
His laughter was abruptly cut short as a rocket, streaking through the air with deadly precision, struck him squarely in the back.
KA-BOOM!
The explosion was deafening, and Kishin was thrown forward, his body slamming into the wet ground with a heavy thud.
"Kishin!" Peggy cried out, her voice filled with panic as she and the others rushed to his side.
Gasping for breath, Kishin managed a wry smile. From the ground, he could see the gate nearly ten meters away.
"Looks like…the end of the line for me…" His words were barely a whisper as his fiery essence flickered out, much like the last embers of a coal-burning locomotive running out of steam.
No one had time to mourn for the fallen man before a loud thud resonated through the air, drawing their attention back to the gate.
Standing before them was a heavily armed militaristic suit, its imposing presence magnified by a stark color scheme of gray and red. The suit's design drew heavily from samurai armor, with sharp, angular lines that suggested both ancient tradition and modern warfare. The chest plate was broad and fortified, etched with intricate patterns that glinted menacingly under the dim light. Shoulder guards flared outwards, styled like the sode of samurai armor, providing both protection and intimidation.
The helmet was a particularly striking feature, designed to resemble a kabuto with its sleek, ridged top that tapered into a menacing T-shaped visor. This visor glowed faintly, casting a fearsome gaze. Additional elements like gauntlets and greaves were reinforced with extra plating, making the suit look both unyielding and agile. The entire ensemble was a modern reimagining of feudal armor, equipped with the latest in military technology.
Peggy's eyes widened in shock. "What the hell is that?"
"Attention prisoners!" A digitized voice boomed through the suit's built-in megaphone, echoing first in Japanese and then in English. "I am Tagara Ishiro, warden of this fine facility."
Nick and Sharon exchanged incredulous looks. "Is that… Is he actually wearing a military robot suit?" Nick asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.
"Talk about overkill," Sharon remarked, her tone heavy with sarcasm.
"You may be wondering why or how I have come to possess this suit," Tagara continued, his voice oozing smugness. "Well, the short of it is, I refuse to live amongst animals without having the proper contingencies in place. Hence the creation of the Sentinel."
Through the suit's visor, Tagara's grin widened as he observed the prisoners' shocked expressions. "While I am quite livid about this outbreak, I must admit I am thankful it has given me a good reason to finally deploy this technological marvel."
Peggy took a quick, calculating look around as more guards began to file in behind the large group, while others positioned themselves along the walls. The situation was dire; they were effectively surrounded. 'We're surrounded. If we try to fight, a lot of us are going to be killed,' she thought grimly.
Tagara's voice once again filled the air. "I commend you all for making it this far, but let's be clear—your hopes of freedom are effectively dead."
As he spoke, LED lights embedded in the Sentinel's armor sprang to life, illuminating the area with an array of colors that pulsed rhythmically in the pattern of an octopus.
The symbol of Hydra.
The changing colors moved in a hypnotic rhythm, designed to capture and hold the attention of anyone who looked directly at them.
Utilizing this moment, Tagara activated his hypnosis ability. "Now, I suggest you all drop to your knees, lay down your weapons, and surrender peacefully," he commanded, his voice smooth and compelling. "Let the guards re-cuff you and put the power-dampener collars back on. It's the only sensible thing to do."
Around Peggy, prisoners began to drop one by one, their actions mechanical as they knelt with their hands behind their heads, overtaken by the hypnotic influence of Tagara's technologically enhanced suit.
Even Peggy, Sharon, Namor, and Nick found themselves grappling with the overwhelming compulsion to obey, their bodies inexorably bending towards the ground despite their desperate attempts to resist. Any with guns lay them down on the ground in front of them.
'W-what's going on?!' Peggy thought, her mind racing with panic.
'I…I don't have control…' Namor clenched his jaws, his body tensing as he fought the hypnotic pull.
Amidst the chaos, Tagara turned his attention specifically toward the American prisoners, recalling Hydra Supreme's order with chilling clarity. "Guards, you are ordered to put a bullet in the heads of every American detainee," he commanded, his voice cold and devoid of hesitation.
Many of the guards hesitated, visibly shaken by the command.
A guard nearby lowered his rifle and approached the mecha-clad warden. "But, sir… They're surrendering. We can't just—" His protest was abruptly cut off as Tagara raised his left arm and fired several bullets into the guard, killing him instantly.
The area fell silent, the shock of the warden's actions palpable among both guards and prisoners.
"I have given an order, and I expect it to be carried out," Tagara stated firmly, the light display on the Sentinel intensifying, casting eerie shadows in the shape of Hydra's emblem across the ground. "The Americans are the cause of this outbreak. Execution is necessary for maintaining peace in this prison. Do as I command. It is just!" He redoubled his efforts, sending stronger hypnotic waves to subdue the guards' moral objections.
Moments ticked by, heavy and tense, before the guards slowly nodded in acknowledgment and turned their sights on the prisoners. Some moved to re-cuff the meta-prisoners while others approached the SSR troops, preparing to execute them.
Peggy gritted her teeth in frustration, tears mingling with the rain streaming down her face. 'Dammit! We were so close! I'm...so sorry, Izu-kun.'
Just as despair seemed to cement itself, powerful jets of steam burst forth, striking the warden with such force that even his armored suit staggered backward. Additional jets flew in and scalded the guards approaching the prisoners, forcing them to retreat in pain and confusion.
As the steam cleared, the prisoners snapped out of their hypnotic daze, looking around bewildered and trying to understand what had happened.
The source of the steam attack was none other than Ole Reliable himself.
Todoroki Junnosuke walked through the mass of dazed kneeling prisoners, standing defiantly with a fierce look in his eyes. His usually compliant demeanor was gone, replaced by a resolute fighter.
Tagara, recovering from the initial shock, expressed his disappointment bitterly. "Todoroki, to think you would betray the order of this facility."
Junnosuke stared at the mecha-clad warden unflinchingly, his voice steady and defiant. "You've had to use your ability to keep me in line every day, warden. No more."
As Tagara's hypnotic hold weakened, Namor snapped free from the mesmerizing influence. 'Now's my chance!'
With an immediate and decisive act, Namor commanded the falling rain, gathering it into swirling torrents that lashed out at the guards on the ground and those perched in the watchtowers.
"Water is mine to command!" Namor shouted fiercely. The rain responded to his will, transforming into fierce whips that knocked weapons from hands and swept guards off their feet.
Around them, the other prisoners blinked rapidly, as if awakening from a trance. The fog of hypnosis lifted, and they too started to realize their situation more clearly.
Junnosuke, his voice booming over the tumult, shouted encouragement to his fellow inmates in Japanese. "Freedom is within sight, brothers and sisters! Fight for it!"
His words, full of conviction, ignited a renewed vigor among the prisoners, who, fueled by the chaos sown by Namor's hydro attack, began to swarm the disoriented guards.
In the midst of the chaos, Tagara snarled in frustration. "It's always a few pesky characters that stir up rebellion," he growled, his voice dripping with contempt.
As he prepared to target Namor, the hydraulic whir of his suit filled the air while he lifted his arm to take aim. But before he could fire, he was caught off-guard by another powerful burst of steam from Junnosuke, which hit him squarely and sent him staggering backwards.
Junnosuke, seizing the moment, charged toward the disoriented mecha-warden with a fierce determination blazing in his eyes. "You will face me, warden!" he declared boldly, closing the distance with rapid strides.
Tagara snarled angrily. "If you wish to die so quickly, Todoroki, then so be it!"
As the battle raged in the background, Namor sprinted toward the imposing metal gate. He grasped the door's ridges firmly and pushed against it with all his might, muscles straining as he muttered, "C'mon, c'mon! Move!" Yet, despite his best effort, the gate stubbornly refused to budge.
"Petty Officer McKenzie, your task is to breach that gate. Our escape depends on it." Izuku's directive echoed in his mind, urging him on.
With a deep breath, Namor shut his eyes, his brow furrowing in intense concentration.
Then, a conversation from over a year ago played through his head.
In the midst of the Pacific Ocean, on the deck of a US aircraft carrier, Namor was in uniform and walking alongside Doctor Hatsume. The ocean breeze mixing with the sounds of sailors working around them.
"Why are you so interested in recruiting me to the SSR, doctor?" Namor had asked, his tone mixed with curiosity and skepticism. "I already have a place within the Navy Seals."
Doctor Hatsume's reply was animated and passionate. "Like I said, joining the SSR will potentially make you stronger. I'm working on a project that can enhance even meta-abilities," she explained, her eyes alight with the excitement of her research.
Namor looked unconvinced, but Hatsume pressed on, her voice earnest. "It's also a chance to change the narrative about metahumans. Despite your heroics, some still fear you because of your powers."
That struck a chord with Namor. Hatsume concluded, "You are one of the few whose abilities could significantly influence public perception. If people see someone like you fighting terrorists head-on, rather than just in the shadows with the Seals, it could really go a long way in improving metahuman relations."
The flashback faded, and Namor found himself back at the gate, the rain pounding around him.
Shaking off the memories, Namor whispered to himself, "I... must... open it! This isn't just about freedom, it's about changing the story they tell." he declared, channeling every ounce of his strength into the monumental task.
His muscles bulged visibly as he renewed his efforts against the gate. Unconsciously aware of the water around him enhancing his strength to new levels.
Amidst the cacophony of battle, the air was suddenly pierced by a chilling metallic ripping sound. It was the sharp, grating noise of steel yielding to sheer force. Namor's powerful grip sank into the gate, his muscles straining with every fiber of their being. The steel groaned and protested under his enhanced strength, the sound echoing through the courtyard.
As Tagara locked onto Junnosuke, he fired several rounds of bullets. However, Junnosuke was quick to react, generating thick clouds of steam that shrouded the area, effectively blinding even the Sentinel's advanced targeting systems.
"Coward!" Tagara exclaimed angrily. "Come out and face me like—" His words were abruptly cut off by the sound of metal being viciously torn apart. Turning in disbelief towards the gate, his eyes widened as he witnessed Namor forcefully dismantling the thick metal barrier.
"Animal!" he spat furiously, swiveling the suit to target Namor, his weapon systems whirring to life.
A powerful torrent of steam blasted directly into the Sentinel, forcefully knocking its aim off as his bullets pelted the concrete wall instead. Seizing the opportunity, Junnosuke used the dense steam as cover and surged forward. In a swift motion, he leapt onto the torso of Tagara's suit, clinging to it as he climbed up to the neck area.
"Attempting to shoot someone in the back? Who's the true coward, warden?!" Junnosuke yelled, unleashing a scalding blast of steam at its highest intensity directly into the suit. The vapor seeped into the armor's creases, bypassing the water protective seals and soaking the electronics and computer modules within.
"No! No! NO!" Tagara's cries echoed from the cockpit as alarms blared. Sparks erupted as the suit's electrical system was compromised, the exterior LED lights flickering and crackling. Moments later, the entire Sentinel suit powered down completely, its systems overwhelmed by the steam. It remained motionless for a split second before toppling backward, crashing to the ground with a resounding thud, locked in its final defeated pose.
As Namor exerted a final Herculean effort, he forcefully wrenched a section of the gate free. The metal tore apart with a harsh screech, twisting as it clattered to the ground and created a jagged, chaotic opening.
"THE GATE IS DOWN!" Namor's roar pierced through the rain and the tumult of battle.
With Tagara effectively neutralized, the remaining guards, witnessing the downfall of their warden, hastily began their retreat.
Peggy, who had been returning fire at the guards, allowed herself a brief smirk of satisfaction. "Everyone, through the gate! Head into the valley!" she shouted, her command echoing in both English and Japanese.
Cheers of victory erupted from the prisoners as they surged towards the now accessible gate.
As the prisoners charged through the gate, Peggy took a moment to glance back at the prison. Her eyes narrowed slightly, a mix of determination and concern etching her features. 'Izu-kun, please be there at the rendezvous point.' She clenched her fists, her resolve firming as she turned to follow the others.
Amidst the chaos, with a hydraulic hiss, a door on the chest of the downed Sentinel suit slid open. Warden Tagara, sweaty and red-faced from the heat, crawled out. He pulled himself free of the cockpit, staggered off the Sentinel, and collapsed onto the rain-soaked ground, visibly disoriented and desperate.
"Warden." Tagara's head snapped up as he noticed Junnosuke approaching, his expression resolute and unyielding.
In a panic, Tagara fumbled for his pocket watch within his suit pocket. He pulled it out and opened it, attempting to swing it in a hypnotic rhythm.
"T-that's enough, Todoroki! You will stand down! Fall to your knees and apologize for your disobedience, and I may consider—"
His plea was abruptly silenced as Junnosuke delivered a forceful punch directly to Tagara's face.
Tagara recoiled, knocked back into the side of the suit, where he slumped over on the muddy ground, unconscious.
Junnosuke then stooped down, seizing the pocket watch from Tagara's limp grasp. With a decisive motion, he tossed it to the ground and crushed it underfoot. "I am done being your puppet," he declared emphatically.
With that final act, Junnosuke turned and joined the flood of liberated prisoners rushing through the open gate.
Despite his injuries, All For One laughed—a hollow, cold sound that reverberated through the corridor. His crimson eyes glowed ominously, casting an eerie light as he regarded the group with a perverse amusement.
"It appears you have me at a disadvantage," he rasped in bizarre joy.
Ignoring his pain, he grunted heavily and pushed himself into a sitting position, his movements labored.
Bucky, snapping out of his shock, aimed his weapon directly at All For One. "Hey, Satan's hemorrhoid! Don't move!"
"Heh-heh…" All For One paused, stopping his movements but remaining visibly unfazed. His gaze then shifted to an object near his feet. Feigning indifference, he looked up at Izuku. "Now you see why I didn't need a sinister mask, Captain."
"Would've been redundant alright," James grimaced at All For One's ghastly appearance. "Looks like your face caught fire and was put out with a chain."
Unsettled by the sight, Izuku murmured, "Teruko said the first serum had nasty side effects... but this."
Zak cocked a brow, bemused. 'The hell is he talking about? What serum?'
All For One continued to laugh, though his laughter broke into a cough, specks of blood dotting the ground. "No matter what lies Hatsume told you, I was her greatest success!"
He attempted to stand, but the pain overwhelmed him, causing him to collapse. Yet, he managed to scoot closer to the object on the ground—within reach of his foot.
"Izuku, bro," Bucky maintained his aim. "I've got a clear shot. I can end this all with a bullet between the fucker's eyes. Just say the word."
Izuku's gaze hardened as he stared at All For One, the temptation to give the go-ahead weighing heavily on him.
Meanwhile, Zak's eyes shot open in shocked disbelief. "Wait… Izuku?" He turned to the star-spangled soldier. "As in… Izuku Midoriya?!"
"Uh…" Izuku was momentarily caught off guard. "Zak—"
"You're Captain America!?" Zak exclaimed in disbelief.
Seizing the momentary distraction, All For One kicked the object—revealed to be Izuku's busted shield—at Bucky. The shield knocked the gun out of his hand and struck him hard in his temple.
"Awk!" Bucky cried out as he stumbled back, momentarily disoriented.
"Bucky?!" Izuku rushed to Bucky's side to check on him.
In that chaos, All For One remarkably sprang to his feet and prepared to run.
"No you don't, ugly!" James lunged at him with claws outstretched, but All For One somehow caught the stout man, spun him around, and hurled him into Zak, sending them both crashing to the floor.
All For One hastened down the hallway, clutching at the bullet wounds on his stomach. Without breaking stride, he reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone, swiftly typing a few commands. In response, a steel barrier began to slowly descend from the ceiling in the corridor behind him.
Pausing for a moment, AFO leaned against the wall to catch his breath. "You are deluded, Captain!" he shouted back towards Izuku. "You pretend to be a simple soldier, but you're just afraid to admit that we have transcended humanity. Unlike you, I embrace this new reality proudly! Without fear!"
"Then why are you running?" Izuku called out sharply.
All For One offered no reply as the barrier completed its descent, sealing him off with a resounding clang.
Izuku turned back to Bucky, his brow furrowed with concern. "You alright?"
Bucky groaned and rubbed his left temple. "Fine… Just stings," he muttered, then shot a sharp glare at Zak, who was picking himself off the floor alongside James. "Damn it, Powers! I had him!"
"Forget it!" Izuku interjected firmly to deescalate any arguments. "We came here to free the prisoners in isolation, and we're not out of the woods yet."
"You sure, Shorty?" James asked, his tone skeptical. "This could be our chance to finish Hydra's boss…"
"We won't be getting past that barrier so easily. Besides," Izuku then turned his attention to the corridor where the five other prisoners were peeking anxiously from behind the corner. "It's not just us here."
Bucky nodded in understanding, his focus shifting to the task at hand. "Alright, you heard the boss. Let's move!" He then shouted down an adjacent hallway in Japanese, calling for Haruka, Kudo, Bruce, and the other two to follow.
Izuku led the group, recalling from the blueprints the shortest route toward an exit point, his steps quick and determined.
Zak, however, hurried to catch up to Izuku, his expression a mix of confusion and awe. "Midoriya… Is it really you? Be straight with me."
Without breaking stride, Izuku briefly hesitated before replying, "Yes."
"But… how? What the hell happened to you?" Zak's voice was laden with disbelief.
He glanced back with a coy smirk. "I joined the Army."
With the barrier sealed shut All For One slumped against the cold, stark wall—panting heavily. Blood trickled from his mouth and seeped from the bullet holes and puncture wounds on his torso, darkening the floor beneath him.
Had AFO been an ordinary man, he might have already succumbed to the blood loss and shock. However, even with his formidable meta-ability suppressed, AFO was far from ordinary.
Summoning the last remnants of his super-soldier strength, he clenched his hand around the metallic collar encircling his neck. With a ferocious yell that resonated through the deserted halls, he ripped it off, the metal biting deeply into his flesh.
As the broken collar clanged to the ground, AFO's healing meta-ability sprang to life. His body shuddered as, one by one, bullets were expelled from his flesh, clinking as they hit the tiled floor. He picked up one of the expelled bullets, turning it over in his hand, examining it with a newfound introspection.
"…I've never been so close to death's door," AFO remarked, a grim chuckle escaping his lips. His fingers tightened around the bullet, and with a sudden squeeze, he crushed it into metallic dust.
Flesh rapidly regenerated across AFO's red skull, meticulously reconstructing his face. Slowly, he rose to his feet, straightening his suit despite the fabric being marred by tears and blood stains.
Later, All For One arrived on the roof where the helipad was bathed in the eerie glow of the facility's security lights. He disregarded the rain drenching his suit as he moved purposefully toward the waiting helicopter.
"Sir!" The pilot, about to step out of the chopper with an umbrella, paused mid-stride. "You should've called me before—Wait!" His eyes widened as he noticed the blood staining All For One's suit. "Sir, are you al—"
"Never mind that. Get us in the air, now," All For One commanded briskly.
"Y-Yes, sir!" the pilot responded, quickly retreating into the cockpit.
As they boarded, the pilot wasted no time in prepping the aircraft. In moments, the engines started and roared to life. The chopper steadily began to ascend in the air, the pilot skillfully compensating for the rain and gusts.
Reaching for a digital tablet, AFO's fingers moved rapidly across the screen. 'This place has outlived its usefulness.' With that thought, he pressed a digital red button labeled 'DESTRUCT'.
Moments later, a chain of explosions rocked Tsurugi Peak Detention Center. The cellblocks ignited first, sending explosive force and flames shooting through the concrete structures, followed closely by the administrative building. The destruction then methodically spread to the recycling sector, where each warehouse erupted in flames one after the other, systematically demolishing the facility.
As the last of the prisoners made their escape through a torn gap in the westside gate, disappearing into the woods below the mountain, AFO watched with a critical eye. He inwardly commended the prisoners for their successful outbreak, though he attributed a large part of their success to the warden's incompetence.
Speaking of…
Peering through the rain, his sharp gaze caught a metallic glint near the west gate. It was the Sentinel suit, lying motionless in the mud, frozen in its last pose. Nearby, he spotted Warden Tagara, also motionless and sprawled in the mud.
"Pilot, take us to the westside. Stay airborne," AFO commanded.
As they hovered over the west gate, AFO unlocked and slid open the chopper door.
"Sir?" the pilot queried, uncertainty in his voice.
"I won't be long."
Without another word, AFO leaped from the chopper. As he fell, black demonic wings unfurled from his back, flapping powerfully to slow his descent. He landed gently on the wet ground, water splashing under his shoes as he approached the unconscious warden. The man's once pristine gray suit was tattered, and his skin reddened with third-degree burns from head-to-toe
Reaching Tagara, AFO gave him a rough kick in the side. "Tagara," he called out sternly. "Wake up."
Tagara gasped in pain, coughing violently before his eyes snapped open. A sharp cry escaped him as he felt the searing pain from his scalding burns. He looked up, his expression morphing into shock as he saw AFO standing before him, an unmistakable look of displeasure etched on his face.
He stammered, trying to formulate an explanation, "S-Supreme One! I-I can explai—"
AFO cut him off sharply. "You have failed, Tagara," he stated coldly. "And are no longer of use."
Tagara attempted a feeble defense, his voice weak and trembling, "But I—"
AFO silenced him by grabbing his face roughly, his grip unforgiving. Without another word, eerie red energy transferred from Tagara's body and into AFO.
Once the transfer was complete, AFO released him and noted Tagara's pocket watch lying crushed in the mud. He picked it up, the Hydra symbol prominently emblazoned on the front, and dangled it before Tagara's eyes, which were now wide with a mix of fear and confusion.
"Tagara Ishiro," AFO began, his voice resonating with authority as he swung the watch hypnotically. "When you wake up, you will have no recollection of me or Hydra. The suit behind you was acquired through illegal means. When the authorities arrive, you will take full responsibility for tonight's outbreak. It was your incompetence that led to the facility's downfall. Are we clear?"
As the watch swung back and forth, Tagara's eyes followed it obediently, the newly transferred hypnosis ability taking effect. "Yes..." he drawled out, his voice empty.
"Good," AFO smirked, satisfied. Abruptly, he delivered a sharp kick to Tagara's face, sending him spiraling back into unconsciousness.
Glancing at the watch in his hand, he pocketed in his suit.
With a mighty flap of his wings, All For One ascended into the air, swiftly returning to the waiting chopper. As he reentered the cabin, his demonic wings retracted into his back, and he smoothly closed the door behind him.
A wry smile played on the pilot's lips as he eyed All For One through the rearview mirror. "Tied up the loose ends, Supreme One?" he inquired, his tone mixing curiosity with a hint of amusement.
"Indeed," All For One replied as he reclined in his seat, settling back with an air of satisfaction.
As the chopper gained altitude, the pilot ventured another comment, his voice laced with a touch of regret. "A shame, sir. I recall this being your favorite harvesting center."
All For One chuckled lightly, his response tinged with both dismissal and anticipation. "The fall of Tsurugi Peak is but a minor setback," he replied, his smile broadening into a dark grin. "However, it has presented an invaluable element for the narrative—what every Demon Lord requires—a rising Hero to vanquish."
As the explosions lit up the stormy night sky, their fiery glow reflected in All For One's crimson eyes. The helicopter spiraled upward, leaving the smoldering ruins of the former metahuman prison far below.
Moments earlier…
An outside fire-exit door from the smaller isolation ward was forcefully kicked open, and Izuku, Bucky, James, Zak, and the others quickly sprinted out, heading directly toward the main gate over 100 meters away. With no visible resistance, their path seemed clear—until the facility itself began to rebel.
The ground shuddered as explosions detonated throughout the compound, each blast echoing ominously and drawing nearer.
"What's going on?" Zak yelled, visibly alarmed.
"Self-destruct." Izuku stated, his expression hardening. "Must be All For One's doing."
"Self-destructing base?" James rolled his eyes, "That is so damn cliché."
As the ground continued to tremble beneath them, Kudo and Bruce huddled closer together, their faces etched with fear. The young boys looked around wildly as the loud explosions surrounded them, the chaos becoming almost overwhelming.
Noticing their distress, Bucky knelt down to their level, giving them a reassuring smile. "Hey, you two," he said gently, speaking in basic Japanese, his tone calm and steady amidst the noise. "Going to make it through, okay? Stick close."
Bruce, the younger of the two, nodded slowly, his eyes wide. "Is it really going to be okay?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Bucky's smile widened, full of confidence. "Yes," he affirmed, clapping a comforting hand on each of their shoulders. "You got some of the toughest folks anywhere right here. Won't let anything happen to you."
Kudo managed a small smile, taking a deep breath and finding some comfort in Bucky's words. "Okay," he said, trying to muster more courage from Bucky's assurance.
Bucky looked up to see Haruka nodding in approval, her smile warm and encouraging. The sight brought a fuzzy, comforting feeling to his chest, bolstered by her smile.
"C'mon, let's move!" Izuku encouraged, leading the group forward.
Their rapid dash toward the main gate was suddenly cut short when an explosion at the base of the watchtower caused it to groan ominously before collapsing, effectively blocking the exit with a massive heap of debris.
"Ah, great! Now what?!" Zak exclaimed in frustration.
"We can head for the west gate!" Bucky shouted over the din, pointing toward an alternative route. "The others went there, right?"
More explosions continued to rock the facility, and the recycling sector was soon ablaze, casting a sinister glow over their surroundings.
"Definitely not going that way," James remarked.
Izuku quickly assessed the situation. "We'll have to get over the tower!" he declared, his voice resolute.
Wasting no time, Izuku led them to the fallen structure and knelt down, signaling Bucky to come forward. "You first. Pull the others up," he instructed.
Bucky nodded, understanding his role. Izuku grasped Bucky by the feet and, using his enhanced strength, launched him upwards. Bucky soared through the air and managed to grab the ledge, pulling himself atop the rubble.
Once secure, Bucky looked down, ready to assist the others. Izuku then helped the civilians—Kudo, Bruce, Haruka, followed by Prisoner 205 and 206. Next were James and Zak.
"Try not to throw me to the moon," James joked as he positioned himself.
Izuku smirked slightly before propelling James upward, where he too grabbed the ledge and was pulled up by Bucky.
Zak stepped forward with a slight frown. "So… This is awkward," he remarked as Izuku knelt down again to assist him.
"I'm just giving you a boost," Izuku defended, positioning himself to boost Zak.
"Not that. I…" Zak hesitated, his expression turning sheepish. "…was an asshole to you all those years, but you saved me anyway. Why?"
Izuku met his gaze, his response simple yet profound. "Because you needed saving." With a firm push, he lifted Zak upwards toward the ledge where Bucky and James quickly helped him up.
Now alone on the ground, Izuku looked up as Bucky and James expressed their concern.
"How are you going to get up?" Bucky called down.
"Just go ahead, I'll manage!" Izuku shouted back.
"Ain't happening, bub!" James retorted.
"We're not leaving without you!" Bucky insisted.
"Just get your star-spangled ass up here already!" Zak shouted aggressively.
Realizing he had no other choice, Izuku scanned his surroundings and noticed a slight incline made by some debris nearby. Backing up to gain enough distance, he sprinted towards the incline at full speed. Using it as a springboard, he launched himself into the air just as another explosion erupted behind him.
Camp Kyoto, Japan
A dull and dreary day had enveloped the Kyoto region in a shroud of unrelenting gray, with a steady drizzle casting a mournful veil over the landscape. Dedicated base personnel across Camp Kyoto diligently executed their assigned tasks. Despite sporadic attempts to boost the soldiers' morale, an air of solemnity pervaded the base, casting a pervasive gloom over its occupants.
The ongoing conflicts with Russian forces and their allies, intertwined with the intricate quagmire of metahuman persecution around the globe, had given birth to a whirlwind of violence and despair. Truly, the world found itself ensnared in a shroud of darkness. However, even in a world where superpowers were no longer confined to comic book pages, there was no iconic superhero to chase away the malevolence.
This was no work of fiction. This was reality. In the realm of real life, there existed no Superman to swoop down and rescue humanity from the depths of turmoil.
Within a modest metal building serving as the base's headquarters, Colonel Phillips stood resolutely in his office, meticulously reciting a message for one of his assistants to transcribe.
"Dear Senator Brandt, I regret to inform you that as of 09:00 on the 9th of September 2043, there remains no sign or contact from Captain Izuku Midoriya. Aerial reconnaissance has proven unfruitful. Consequently, I am left with no choice but to officially declare Captain Midoriya killed in action."
Just then, the door to the office swung open, and in walked Howard Shield, bearing a manila folder. The Colonel's brow furrowed as he regarded the SSR's Chief Engineer with a disapproving scowl.
"New batch of drone surveillance results have come in. The facility is in ruins, almost as if subjected to a chain of explosive blasts," Howard reported, placing the folder upon the Colonel's desk. "The ongoing rain appears to be extinguishing the fires. Unfortunately, there are no signs of survivors, sir."
Colonel Phillips took a deep breath, feeling the immense weight of the situation bearing down on him. He let out a heavy exhale, the burden of the ongoing war visibly etched on his haggard face.
"Corporal, fetch yourself a cup of coffee," he instructed the young officer, who nodded and promptly made his exit, leaving Colonel Phillips and Howard Shield in an awkward silence charged with tension.
In an attempt to ease the heaviness of the moment, Howard ventured a feeble bit of humor as he exhaled, "They say laughter is the best medicine. If only we could prescribe it to the world, we might have a shot at global health." He chuckled dryly.
The Colonel, however, returned the remark with a stern glare. "Even being the nation's foremost weapons manufacturer can only buy us so much leeway, Shield," he retorted gravely. "There will be repercussions for this."
Howard stood his ground, unfazed by the Colonel's veiled threats. "Nations need weapons to fight wars. If the U.S. wants to continue fighting other nations' battles, then they need Shield Industries to supply."
The Colonel let out a derisive chuckle. "You act as if your company is the country's sole arms manufacturer. In case you've forgotten, Shield Industries was on the brink of bankruptcy before that military contract saved your asses. That ambitious Arc Reactor project left your investors hanging by a thread." He paused to take a sip of his black coffee, his gaze fixed on Howard. "It seems to me your company relies on our military contracts just as much as we rely on your weaponry."
Howard's eyes narrowed, his tone taking a more serious edge. "This isn't about the Arc Reactor project."
"No," the Colonel shot back, "this is about you helping 'America's Golden Boy' embark on a suicide mission. Now he and a bunch of America's finest men and women are dead."
"I don't regret my actions, sir, and I doubt Captain Midoriya does either. At least he died trying to do what's right," Howard retorted, glaring at the gray-haired military officer.
He lowered his head solemnly. "And Dr. Hatsume would've been proud of him too."
The Colonel's response was brusque. "Dr. Hatsume is dead. And thanks to your actions, our country's only super-soldier is dead too. And for what?"
Howard paused, pondering his response. "I had faith, sir."
Colonel Phillips scoffed, rolling his eyes in frustration. "Well... I hope that faith of yours provides some comfort when they shut this program down."
In the midst of their tense exchange, the office door swung open, revealing the same corporal who had departed moments ago.
"Sir!" His once somber expression had transformed into one of hope and excitement, a stark contrast to the prevailing melancholy that had clouded the base for months.
Both the Colonel and Howard swiveled their attention to the officer, puzzled by his abrupt change in demeanor.
"What's going on, corporal?" Colonel Phillips inquired, his tone laced with curiosity.
The corporal hesitated for a moment, struggling to find the right words. "You'll need to see it for yourselves, sir," he stammered.
A short while later, Colonel Phillips and Howard Shield trailed behind the corporal, making their way to the northside perimeter of the camp. A growing crowd of base personnel had gathered near the entrance gate, their murmurs and hushed conversations filling the air with anticipation. The gate opened onto a narrow trail that wound through a dense forest, eventually leading to one of the region's rugged mountain valleys.
Colonel Phillips pressed forward, weaving his way to the front of the gathering. He squinted in an attempt to comprehend the sudden commotion, his eyes scanning the approaching figures with a mix of confusion and disbelief. It took a few blinks to assure himself that it wasn't a mirage or a byproduct of his war-weary mind playing tricks on him.
Emerging from the tree line and approaching the camp was an immense throng of people; all of them wearing orange prison jumpsuits.
(Music: The First Avenger soundtrack - Triumphant Return)
There had to be hundreds of them!
At the front of the crowd, the military officer recognized members of the 9th Infantry Division among the crowd, the same men and women he had assumed were lost weeks ago. There were sadly fewer than in the original unit, but at least there were confirmed survivors now.
While Colonel Phillips looked on in disbelief, Howard grinned brightly and joined in on the applause; especially when they noticed the man up front.
Marching at the forefront of this extraordinary assembly was none other than Izuku Midoriya, the young man who had been given the title of captain originally as a stage gimmick, now looked like a true leader.
His stage suit was stained with mud, his brown leather jacket showed signs of wear and tear, and he wore a blue workers helmet with a white 'A' on the front.
Walking beside Izuku were Peggy and Bucky, both armed with pistols. A few steps behind them were Sharon, James, Nick, and Namor. The remaining members of the 9th Infantry were split into separate groups, securing the perimeter and guarding the people from any potential ambushes.
As the camp gate swung open to welcome the group, cheers and applause erupted across the base. For the first time in a long while, there was a reason for everyone to feel genuine excitement and hope.
Izuku felt a hand on his right shoulder and turned to see Bucky looking at him with a proud smirk, giving him a nod of acknowledgment. The verdette smiled in return, then shifted his attention to Peggy on his left.
Her shortened raven hair was tied into a small sideway ponytail to keep it out of the way. Catching his gaze, Peggy looked up at him and offered a smile filled with pride and affection. Despite the dirt, bruises, and exhaustion visible on her face, her beauty shone through.
Izuku blushed slightly and nodded in gratitude for her support.
People continued to file into the military camp as Izuku marched up to the dumbfounded Colonel Phillips. While Bucky regrouped with the other SSR troops, Peggy remained a few steps back, standing at attention for the Colonel.
Izuku stood tall and saluted Phillips. "Some of these men need medical attention. Plenty of the liberated prisoners require care as well."
Colonel Phillips briefly found himself at a loss for words. He turned his attention back to the expanding assembly of liberated prisoners entering the base. It was a diverse group, encompassing metahuman teenagers and young adults. The others came from a wide range of age groups, likely imprisoned for their association with metahuman criminals.
Among the newly freed, many bore the visible scars of past trauma, whether from their earlier experiences or the disorienting presence of foreign rescuers. Others chose to keep their heads lowered, aiming to avoid any inadvertent offense.
He didn't want to contemplate the impending political turmoil stemming from the liberation of these prisoners, even if it could be justified due to Hydra's involvement. Yet, Colonel Phillips found himself unable to care less about any of that political nonsense at this very moment.
"Sir," Izuku continued, his tone resolute, "I'd like to surrender myself for disciplinary action."
Colonel Phillips observed Izuku's expression carefully. With a weary sigh, he replied, "That won't be necessary."
Seeing a small smile form on the veteran's face, Izuku reciprocated it with a smile of his own. "Yes, sir."
With that, Colonel Phillips turned and departed but not before shooting a glance at Howard. "Faith, huh?" Maybe there was something to it, the old military man thought.
The suave engineer approached Izuku and Peggy with a grin, though his eyes glistened with the remnants of relieved tears after believing they had perished.
"You're way past your curfew, you know," he quipped, his voice light but underscored with genuine concern. "What happened to calling home?"
Izuku cast a subtle glance at Peggy, who turned away slightly, her cheeks tinged with mild embarrassment. "Phone got busted," he explained apologetically. "Couldn't call our ride."
Peggy let out a heavy sigh. "I suppose it'd be pointless to ask you to reconsider your choices now, Izu-kun..."
Izuku's smirk held firm. "Nope. You're stuck with me, Peg-chan."
Peggy leveled a stern look at her long-time friend, which eventually softened into an affectionate smile. "I wouldn't have it any other way."
Meanwhile, Howard observed the exchange between Izuku and Peggy, a knowing grin on his face. His thoughts drifted to his deceased colleague. 'Teruko would love seeing this,' he mused wistfully.
Suddenly, their attention was drawn to the approach of another individual.
"Midoriya!" Zak's voice rang out as he approached them.
"Private Powers?" Howard arched a curious brow.
As Zak stopped a few meters away, his intense glare locked onto Izuku, who met it with stoic resolve. Peggy remained on high alert, ready to intervene if needed.
After a brief, tense moment, Zak finally asked, "I'm guessing Yamamoto didn't give you my message?"
Briefly glancing at Peggy, he turned back to the brunet. "No. What is it?"
A small smirk crossed Zak's face as he held out his hand, surprising everyone present. "You deserved more than 3 percent. A helluva lot more."
Izuku blinked in momentary confusion before recalling their last conversation from high school. His eyes widened slightly, processing the hidden meaning behind the words of his former bully.
Returning the smirk, Izuku accepted the handshake. "Apology accepted."
Peggy's eyes shot open, caught off guard by this development. 'Wait, what just happened?'
"HEY!" Zak shouted out, gaining the attention of many nearby personnel, and looked back at his former victim with a grin. "Let's hear it for Captain America!"
All of the base personnel eagerly responded with boisterous cheers and applause. Izuku looked back at Zak with surprise, who only smirked and pointed to the scars on his neck, the ones left during the World Series attack.
Understanding the message, the verdette nodded.
As the soldiers across the base cheered for Izuku, the liberated prisoners looked on with confusion; many unable to understand English.
Noticing this, Bucky approached a group that included Haruka, Kudo, Bruce, and Junnosuke. "Cheering for him." He pointed at Izuku. "He rescued us… Captain America." He roughly translated to Japanese.
"Kyaputen Amerika?" Kudo repeated.
Bucky grinned and nodded. "Hai! Kyaputen!"
"Arigatō, Kyaputen!" Bruce shouted out. ("Thank you, Captain!")
"Hai! Anata wa hīrōdesu, Kyaputen Amerika!" Haruka tearfully joined in. ("Yes! You're a hero, Captain America!")
"Hīrō! Hīrō! Hīrō!" Kudo chanted passionately.
From there, enthusiastic and grateful chants of "Kyaputen" and "Hīrō!" spread across the Japanese crowd. Soldiers and former metahumans alike all joined in and applauded for Captain America.
Junnosuke directed his gaze to Izuku, studying him intently. "Kyaputen…" he murmured in awe. "Hero."
Izuku looked around at the crowd with an appreciative smile, his eyes brimming slightly. He then turned to Peggy, who was staring up at him with a warm smile beaming with pride.
The touching moment was interrupted when Sharon, James, Namor, and Nick crowded around Izuku, laughing heartily as they wrestled with him and tackled him to the ground.
Peggy chuckled at the scene, watching the verdette longingly. 'Izu, my little bonsai, you've really grown into a redwood.'
(Music end)
On that day, the 9th of September 2043, a day after going AWOL, Captain America had returned to Camp Kyoto with the 9th Infantry Division along with the metahumans imprisoned at Tsurugi Peak Detention Center. While Izuku's real name and appearance would be stricken from official records, all the people involved would remember his likeness.
Many historians debate the exact specifics of that memorable day, but there is one consensus amongst them: it marked the dawn of the Age of Heroes.
A/N: These last two chapters were a labor of love indeed.
Credit to "Monkey D. Conan" for his helpful input in a part of this chapter.
While it would've been easy to copy-and-paste everything from "The First Avenger", I truly felt that'd be boring and uninspiring. Yes, there are still plenty of similar beats from the movie, but I do think there's enough differences to make the read engaging with some character development and world building. At least I hope it's good. I understand not everyone likes the chapters that focus on the past though.
We've come a long way since I first published this story in March 2022. Over 550k+ words?! That's at least five novels…
To be honest, I do wish I was a better writer. If I were, I could've condensed things further and focused only on the essentials. Heck, I probably would've been able to finish this story and Ultimate Fairy already if I did. But sometimes I feel I can go overboard when I start writing and maybe include more dialogue, scenes, and detail than is required. Lemme know what you fine readers think. Please, don't be afraid to be brutally honest.
I say all this because there's still a lot of ground to cover before the end. Below, you'll see a list of chapters that are planned. Keep in mind, the titles are tentative.
Post-Internships
Final Exams (focus primarily only on CapSquad)
CapSquad Hangout
War Buddies
Interlude- Yuto and Tokage conclusion
Interlude - Logan and Saya (Ippan Josei)
Interlude - Bakugo
Dathomir Museum Part 1
Dathomir Museum Part 2
2043/2044 Chapter - Howling Commandos
Two Heroes Part 1
Two Heroes Part 2
2044/2045 Chapter - A New Evil
Interlude: Peggy and Izuku
Summer Training Camp Part 1
Summer Training Camp Part 2
2045 Chapter - Ultimate Sacrifice
2045/2195 Chapter - In Wake of Tragedy
Rescue
Closure
Supreme Skull
A Hero For All
Epilogue
So, for now, there are 23 chapters left. With my word counts set between 5k-20k for a chapter, we have between 115,000-460,000 words left. That's a substantial amount that will likely take me another year or two for me to complete.
I wanted all of your feedback. Do you want me to stay the course as I am? Or should I try to cut back some? Obviously, I don't want to sacrifice quality, but I can't imagine it'd hurt to speed things up a bit.
Anyways, enough of my rambling. I will be taking several weeks off from this story to focus on my other fanfiction story. It's been needing some love, and it'll give me time to clear my head for this one.
Please leave comments and critique in the review box below. Thank you for the support as always!
