SAO: Avenger

by JCK824TO

It's been two months since SAO was cleared. But the 300 players remain comatose, including Asuna Yuuki. But when he learns about the arranged marriage & the possibility of Asuna in ALfheim Online, Kazuto, & his friends, dive into ALO in search of her. However, they're not the only ones. Steve Rogers, Thomas Anderson, & the Howler Platoon dives in to investigate.

17. Chapter 17

Yokota Air Force Base ~ Tokyo, Japan:

"Ladies and gentlemen," the judge presiding began, "we hereby begin the hearing into the 7th Platoon's 1st Company leader's conduct during last night's incident on January 22nd. The prosecution shall present the charges."

The MP soldiers brought Chris Burke into the courtroom and presented before the Judge. Chris stood tall and dignified at attention in his uniform before the defendant's podium. Much to the amazement of everyone present in the room.

The prosecutor stood up from the table and read off the charges... "Captain Christopher Burke, is hereby charged with the breach of national security through his leaking of confidential information, use of excessive force compromising said national security and operational security, and willful disregard for the safety of the soldiers under his command and civilian bystanders in combat against hostile forces."

Captain Burke remained silent as the prosecutor continued.

"We the prosecution present the case that the captain's actions presented a serious danger to the personnel around him, and bring into his question his ability to sound judgment and command."

Anderson sat next to Colonel Rogers and silently watched on.

"I can't stand this," he silently muttered. Deep down, he felt it was all unnecessary. However, as an US Air Force Captain, he had no choice but to comply...

'I just hope Kirito and the others got the messages...' He then thought.

"Thank you," the judge told the prosecutor... The former sits back down as the judge begins to speak.

"We will now bring witnesses to testify... We will start with the prosecution's witnesses."

One of the JAGs on the prosecutor's side stood up. "First witness is Major Doctor Victor Weaver, a physician assigned to the USS Wilson."

Doctor Weaver stood up approached the judge.

"Guess they are going with the doctor angle," Rogers realized, "very clever."

"Always with that angle..." Anderson scoffed softly.

"Major Weaver, your honor," the physician saluted.

The prosecutor asks. "Major Weaver, care to explain Captain Burke's behavior during Operation: Finalizer?"

The major began, "given the sensitive nature of the operation, it was our team's task to examine the mental and physical state of Captain Burke and his lieutenant before and after each FullDive to ensure their safe operation of the AmuSpheres used for the mission. The first FullDive presented no concerns."

"Captain Burke was showing signs of stress after logging off from the ALO servers." He continued.

"So you had different... VR sessions, and you said the first one had no problems," the judge said.

"Correct, your honor," the major said, "however, it was different after the second FullDive."

"Please elaborate."

"After the second FullDive, Captain Burke reported of experiencing glitches with his avatar... and my personnel had difficulty evaluating him."

"Specify," the judge probed.

"He appeared agitated, your honor..." The major gave a wary glance towards Captain Burke. "However, I assumed it was the glitches within the modified AmuSpheres. So they were scanned for any signs of glitches and hacks."

"We found nothing to suggest any tampering or defects with the equipment, but Captain Burke did hinder us by refusing the cooperate in explaining the unusual spikes in brain activity related to stress and hyperactivity."

"And, despite refusing cooperation, he insisted of continuing the mission regardless..."

The judge took notes. "Anything else, Major?"

Major Weaver shook his head. "None sir."

"Very well, you may be seated, Major..." The judge waved his hand. The major walked past Captain Burke. While they never made eye contact, the major made a disapproving and solemn headshake.

"Next witness..." The prosecutor called out.

---

Kirigaya Residence:

"You set, Kazuto?" Asuna asked.

"I'm always set," he gave affirmation.

"Same goes for me and Sugu.." Alex replied.

"Just pull the trigger, Asuna," Suguha winked.

Asuna smiled. "Alright, let's go..." She pressed on the record button on the laptop, synched to a webcam on a tripod.

"And we're rolling..." Alex whispered. Asuna assumed a poised posture with her husband and friends with the living room as the background.

The red light on the webcam lights up, notifying that it's recording...

"Hello everyone," Asuna began... "I'm Asuna Yuuki... And I'm sure that all of you remember seeing my broadcast last night... And as you all know, Hydra has been exposed inside RECT, with their entire division having been captured or destroyed. And its leader, Sugou Nobuyuki, has been captured..."

"And I wish to express my gratitude to the American soldiers and volunteers from around Japan for my liberation and that of 299 other friends and comrades." Her face then took a serious look as she then continued. "But my friends, a great hero who has aided us in our most dire hour, is about to be dealt a great injustice. His name is Captain Christopher Burke, leader of the 7th Platoon of the 75th Ranger Battalion. Also known as, the Howler Platoon..."

"As you all heard by now, he has been charged by the American military justice system and arrested. So let me ask you this question... Is this how we thank those who save the lives of innocent people? Does the American military leadership have no appreciation for what Captain Burke has accomplished for our liberation? Have any of them seen my first broadcast and the live footage of Nobuyuki's actions towards me and another female player? And moreover, what he did to my husband and the other girl's boyfriend?"

Alex held Suguha closer upon hearing this.

"Let me remind everyone that Hydra was minutes away from initiating their plans for world domination, and they would have succeeded if not for the intervention of the next Avenger. And what reward did he receive? Criminal charges? Distrust from those in authority over him?"

She took a deep breath before she continued. "I beseech everyone and the commanders in authority... the world needs the new Captain America, the next Avenger. And remind them that without him, Hydra would've gotten what they wanted... Absolute control of the whole world..."

Kazuto nodded before speaking up.

"And I, Kirito, have had the honor of meeting Captain America and fighting alongside him. Without him, I wouldn't be able to rescue my wife from the clutches of a madman. And it would be remiss for an American hero like Captain America to be prosecuted and locked up like a common criminal."

He paused for a moment before he continued. "I refuse to believe that Burke would be entrusted with the mantle of his own country, only for that country to turn its back on him when he served it faithfully for many years. I want to thank Captain Burke for his service as Captain America, and hope that America would do right by him to drop its charges against him."

After Kazuto finished, it was Alex's turn to speak.

"President Wilson... During the whole ALO crises, I staged a rescue mission with my SAO brother to save the 300 players... but it would have been for naught if Captain America had not discovered the Hydra threat and warned us. If he wasn't present in ALO... We would've walked right into Hydra's trap and the Good Lord knows what they would've done to us..."

"So I beg you and your military brass..." He continued. "... Please reconsider the trial against the new Captain America... Review the matter, pardon him, intervene, or whatever you can as the President, but as a fellow American, I ask you to not let a miscarriage of justice occur under your watch."

After Alex was finished, Suguha's the last.

"Captain America... Ever since Alfheim Online was released a year ago, I wanted to see how the FullDive virtual reality was like. It was like a second home to me..." She sighed sadly. "And now... Ever since I've learned that Hydra was in control of the game. I felt like my whole world was shattered in a heartbeat..."

"But it was thanks to you that it did not turn into a real nightmare. And not only we were able to rescue the 300 players from SAO... But I was able to gain a sister-in-law..."

The other three looked to Suguha. The Kirigaya girl was blushes sheepishly...

"I just want to thank you for what you helped us get back and gain, and I hope that people will see you for the hero that you are." She paused for a moment before continuing. "And I also beg for the US military brass to reconsider your decision and see him as the hero who saved everyone from Hydra... Don't be the ones who put Captain America in jail."

"Be the ones that reward heroes and their deeds..." Suguha finishes.

Asuna smiled at Suguha and faced the camera. "And there you have it. Chris Burke is our Captain America, the next Avenger, and we ask the US Army to return him to his rightful command and duties. And to keep the innocent save from the evil clutches of Hydra and anyone threatens our way of life..."

"I am Asuna..."

"I am Kirito..."

"Leafa..."

"Lexar..."

"And Captain Burke is our Captain America," the four said in unison. And with that, they finished the video with a salute towards the camera. It was then that Midori came from the side and stopped the recording.

"So... how was it, Mom?" Kazuto asked.

"It was amazing..." Midori smiled.

"If it helps, he's also my Captain America for helping to save our dear Asuna and Suguha from that wretch of a man."

"Indeed, he has.." Alex agrees.

"We can go over the video and edit it as needed," Midori offered.

"Sure... And I'm sure that both Yui and Strea will help us too..." Kazuto smiled.

The two AIs were on the laptop as they both smiled.

"We'll view the video and make edits for you, daddy.." Yui chimed.

"Loyal troops to the rescue," Strea joked.

"Any idea where to post the video?" Midori asked.

"We'll start with the Anderson Tech Browser.." Kazuto answered. "It'll spread like wildfire..."

"I say we spread it as far and wide on as many platforms as we can," Asuna suggested, "we need people in America to see this."

"That's the plan, dear.." Kazuto smiled at his wife.

"I hope President Wilson listens and responds," Alex added, "because having a distinguished soldier thrown in Leavenworth won't do his second term any favors.

"I'm sure he will..." Suguha reassured him. "He of all people would know better."

Alex then hugged Suguha. "You're an optimist, you know that Sugu?"

"I managed to help Kazuto to push through despair a few nights ago..." Sugu giggles.

"She got me off my sorry duff to go and save Asuna," Kazuto laughed. "I wanna thank you for it, Sugu.."

"I really owe you one then, Sugu," Asuna beamed, "you got Kazuto to come look for me!"

"And let's not forget those five players that tried to fly up to the World Tree.." Alex pointed out. "If not for them, we wouldn't have proof that you were up at the top..."

"You know, now that I think of it," Asuna wondered, "what are the odds that one of them was an intelligence agent?"

"Intelligence agent?" Suguha asked.

"Because think about it. The Americans acted relatively quickly after that picture of me was taken," Asuna pointed out.

"Very true..." Alex agreed. "But at least they were quick to respond..."

Asuna had a good feeling who it was, but that certain someone told her and Kazuto to keep quiet. And she decided to keep that promise.

Midori worked with Yui and Strea to refine the video.

"It's great to see mom's getting along with our kids..." Kazuto observed happily.

"We've made her a very happy lady, Kazuto-kun," Asuna cooed as she watched.

"We're almost done, grandma." Yui chirped.

"That looks very good," Midori cheered.

"I already have connections to various media platforms in America," Strea sang. "That way, we'll be ready once editing is finished."

"You two are so adorable and amazing," Midori gushed, "AIs yes, but still amazing..."

"Thanks, grandma..." Yui chimed.

Strea grinned was about to mischievously suggest, "I even found some access points into the American military network. We could even try hacking into their headquarters if we-"

"No! That's a bad idea!" Alex interjected as he waved his hands up. "We need to spread the video to civilian networks."

"Just kidding!" Strea giggled.

"Strea, you are not going to hack the US Department of Defense!" Kazuto gave Strea a stern talking to.

"Your father's right, Strea.." Asuna said while giving a stern look.

"We certainly don't want international espionage on our record now do we?" Midori said in a tone that was both a mix of amusement and parental warning.

Strea looked at Midori, then to Kazuto and Asuna. She could see the seriousness in their faces. "I'm sorry, mom, dad, and grandma..." She gazed down shamefully.

"Strea was just joking," Yui remarked, then looked at her sister, "but it probably is not a good time to joke like that."

Strea looked up. "You're right, Yui-nesan..."

Yui smiled to Strea, then looked up at the rest of the family. "We are ready to upload!"

"Send away, Yui.." Asuna cheered.

---

Back at Camp Zama:

Damion remained silent, knowing that the trial against Captain Burke is underway. Ramirez and Castle telling everyone that Colonel Rogers was handling this made it no less frustrating that a few military judges could railroad the Captain.

To take his mind off of the trial, he begins to think about their mission in ALO. Then his mind drifted to one of the players... Philia... He met her when some of his fellow soldiers were teasing and belittling her and her friends. Fortunately, he managed to put a stop to it. Despite being low-rank than the others.

'Good thing I was still more senior to those guys, or it could have been ugly.' He looked to his rank patch. Private First Class. After Anderson removed the GM blocking from the SAO guild and given them modern military gear. He started to become acquainted with Philia.

She was curious, fun, and sweet, yet something in the back of his mind bothered Damion. He wasn't sure what it could be. Yet she reminded him of someone else like her.

'Who does she remind me of?' He thought.

"Hey," one of his fellow soldiers called, "check this out!"

Damion was snapped out of his train and thought and turned his attention to the soldier. "That Asuna chick just released another video from somewhere!"

This gets Damion's attention and makes his way towards the group of soldiers who are crowding around the TV set. "What the-"

"Turn up the volume!" One soldier called out.

Damion saw that it was indeed Asuna, but she had that Kirito guy next to her. And there's two others. That Lexar guy that was with Kirito. But he doesn't recognize the girl with short, black hair. It then became clear to everyone that Asuna was verbally challenging the United States and her military leadership over Burke's arrest.

"You gotta admit, that Asuna girl's very bold..." One soldier commented.

Kirito then spoke his peace about Burke as Captain America, and also challenged the US Army to drop its charges against him.

"It appears that Captain Burke got some fans..." Another soldier said, impressed by Kirito's statements. The other boy and girl, the former definitely being the American Damion heard was called Lexar, also chimed in, telling of the Captain's heroism and even naming the President to step in.

'It's good that our captain is getting support from the SAO survivors...' Damion thought as a smile started to crest.

And the video ended with a rousing "And Captain Burke is our Captain America!" Followed by a salute from the four teens. And then, the video ends.

"He is our Captain America as well," one corporal heartily agreed.

"Indeed, he is," Another corporal added in agreement.

A specialist chimed in, "you know, those kids are right, why in blazes do we soldiers put up with this crud? Howler 7-1 has to take this up the chain."

"Hold on," another soldier yelled, "there are more videos!"

It was then Damion breaks his own silence with a question. "There's more?"

Another one popped up, and the young soldier thought that he was seeing Lisbeth with a darker hair color.

"Is that Lisbeth?" He asked himself.

"Hi everyone," she began, "you all can call me Lisbeth."

'She's Lisbeth...' He then realized as he listens in to hear what she has to say.

"I just got off ALO last night after that Total War in Alfheim... And I've heard of Nobuyuki's capture in the real world... But it wasn't much of a surprise compared with the arrest of the new Captain America..."

"I mean, what the heck?" Lisbeth threw up her arms. "We just stopped Hydra's plans for world domination and this is how the American military thank one of their own?! Handcuffing him and putting him through the ringer!?"

Damion last recalled that Captain Burke had not actually been handcuffed, and seemed rather cooperative, but he could see Lisbeth making her point.

"If it wasn't for the Captain," she continued, "we'd be slaves to Hydra's new world and my friend, Asuna, would've been a slave to the very madman!'

"Captain Burke, Captain America saved hundreds, and even millions last night! And the arrest against him is unacceptable to a hero! Release him, or so help me I will tell all of America and the world that the military mistreats its heroes!"

"Again, I am Lisbeth, and Captain Burke is my Captain America!" The girl made her salute, showing her pride and support. That video ends.

"Well that goes without saying," Sgt. Ramirez suddenly walked in.

"Sarge!" Damion stood up.

"At ease, gentlemen.." Ramirez saluted.

"Sarge," Damion asked, "you just heard all that?"

"Every single word, Private.." The sergeant smiled.

A fellow sergeant chimed in, "James, I know that we have orders, but we can't let them take out the Cap."

"I'm not planning on standing by and letting the military brass run our Cap through either.." Ramirez agreed.

"As a matter of fact," he produced a letter, "I'm making the rounds about the barracks."

Damion squinted his eyes. "Is that-"

"Howler 7-1's formal letter of protest to headquarters against the charges levied against Captain America," Ramirez said.

"How soon will you send that letter, Sarge?" Damion asked.

Suddenly, a confident Lieutenant Preston walked in, "as soon as every yahoo in this company signs that."

"I'm sure that they will, Lieutenant.." Ramirez smiled.

"Well sign me up," one sergeant walked up.

"Sign me up too," said another.

"He's my Captain America," Damion agreed.

"And mine..." Preston added. "I'm his second-in-command, and I have his back."

He continued. "It's my fault that he's in this mess. I was the one who caused Hydra to be alert of our presence..." He pointed to the letter. "And this is the way for me to make up for it..."

"Well hey," Ramirez shrugged, "we didn't know Hydra here, so the way I see it, we were gonna find out the crazy way anyways. Now let's get to it, 7-1."

"Alright!" One soldier exclaimed.

---

Yokota Air Base:

The prosecution against Captain Burke continued with the next witness. It seemed to be mainly technicians from the USS Wilson who already had their misgivings about him.

"I respect the captain for his service..."

'I'm sure you do...' Anderson thought bitterly.

"... but I was already having concerns about his recent behavior and his unwillingness to cooperate with medical personnel servicing him." He continued. "If he'd cooperated, the mission would've gone smoothly and quickly... Instead we got this Total War in Alfheim and 48 good soldiers dead."

"And where did you say was your assignment again, airman?"

"CIC and mission control, your honor."

"Very well then... The defense may present his witnesses."

"That's our cue.." Anderson whispered to Rogers.

"Very well, your honor," Chris replied tall and dignified, "I have two."

There were murmurs all around, while the presiding judge raised an eyebrow. "Just two?"

"Just two, your honor."

"And the names of your defenses are?" The judge asked.

"Colonel Steve Rogers and Air Force Captain Thomas Anderson, sir."

The judge glanced towards Rogers and Anderson, then back to Burke. "Very well, then..."

"Colonel Steve Rogers."

Rogers stood up and stepped forward before the judge. "Your honor..."

"You are this man's superior," the judge asked.

"That's correct, your honor..." Rogers answered.

"And what testimony do you offer regarding Captain Burke's actions?"

Steve Rogers began. "I have observed his actions since the beginning. And I proudly dispute the charges of him endangering his men."

"Care to elaborate, Colonel?"

"First off, we did not even know at first that Nobuyuki had an entire army of Hydra behind him. All we knew that Nobuyuki was a war criminal from the Second Civil War that fled capture... We, the 7th, Platoon went in thinking that this would be a snatch and grab... It turned out more complicated than we originally thought..."

"If you are looking for responsibility for this most recent incident, the blame rests squarely on Hydra and their Supreme Commander... We also learned that Nobuyuki was chief and employee of RECT Progress Inc. Which also created the ALO game and the VR equipment that supported it..."

"But how is this relevant to Captain Burke's actions, Colonel?" The judge probed.

"The point, your honor," Steve Rogers continued, "is that we had no idea that we were sending the captain into a far more dangerous situation than our intel at the time suggested... And by the time we realized that, Nobuyuki was onto us and had his team to make updates with the ALO server to mask everything and sneak their own within ALO..."

"Captain Burke was faced with a very difficult situation that was being imposed on him by a hostile environment controlled by Hydra. This includes civvie players that were tricked into fighting against him and his team..."

"But wasn't the pain absorber tampered with?" One of the prosecutors butted in.

"Yes... It was..." Rogers answered.

"And did Captain Burke proceed with the offensive, knowing such details?"

"He did... However, none of us were aware that the pain absorber was tampered with until after the battle started..."

There were murmurs amongst the crowd, especially the prosecution. However, Rogers remained unnerved by the murmurs.

"But..." He spoke. "The shooting started with one of Hydra's elite soldiers hidden within the other side... As an answer to those who say that Burke shot first... According to one of the civvie players, it was an attempt to take me out during to make peace with the in-game factions... So contrary to allegations that Burke was willfully disregarding the wellbeing of soldiers and civilians, I would say that he suffered an overabundance of concern."

The judge wrote down Rogers' statement in his notes. "Go on."

"So, Burke and the rest of the soldiers were forced to fight the civvie factions..." Rogers continued. "That is... Until the Yuuki girl broadcasted the truth to everyone..."

"After which, Burke worked even harder to get everyone on the same page towards a common objective of ending Hydra's plans before they could succeed."

"But both soldiers and civvies were injured in the process... Correct?" The judge probed.

"Both did experience phantom pain, yes... However, all of it would've been avoided if Hydra didn't make an attempt on me." Rogers quickly countered. "It's a natural risk of the battlefield we find ourselves in, especially an enemy as sinister and crafty as Hydra."

"I see..." The judge wrote into his notes.

"If anything, Captain Burke was principal in averting a real disaster... And later, spearhead into the heart of Hydra.."

---

White House, Washington D.C. ~ January 22nd, 10:00 PM EST:

President Bruce Wilson had a very long day in Washington, having to send personnel to Congress who demanded answers to the events in Japan. All of which happened in just two days after his second inauguration. Public approval of his administration had taken a hit, and even his political allies had questioned his leadership of the new United States.

However, news of the events within ALO were broadcasted to various media platforms across the nation. The fact that Hydra was discovered in Japan had kept his approval with the rest of America above water with the Howler Platoon helping to resolve the hostage crisis. In short, two events are happening all at once, and Wilson struggled to juggle both of them at the same time.

"And I thought being in the navy was hard..." Wilson muttered to himself.

"Mr. President!"

Wilson snapped out of his thoughts as one of his aides walk through the doors. "Yes what is it?"

The aide cleared his throat before he answers. "There's a slew of videos online from Japan..."

"Are they from media platforms?" Wilson asked.

"No sir... they are single video posts going viral... about Captain America."

"Single video posts?" Wilson raised an eyebrow in confusion.

"Yes sir... This is one from the Sword Art Online survivor known as... Asuna Yuuki."

"Asuna Yuuki... Isn't she one of the 300 hostages?

"Yes, she was. And she and others are talking about Captain America and challenging his arrest. And we're getting reports that the same videos' are being broadcasted in various media platforms across America..."

"Send them to me," Wilson was now intrigued.

"Will do, Mr. President.." The aide replied. "I'll have it patched through to your holo-display."

"Thank you.." Wilson nodded. The President sat back in his seat, when his wife walked in.

"Stephanie..." Wilson greeted her.

Stephanie Wilson took one of the chairs in the room and came up next to him. "Bruce, you look so worn."

Bruce gave a sad smile to his beautiful wife with her long flowing bronze hair, olive skin, and bright orange eyes. "Been tough in the past two days, Stephanie.." He sighed. "Hydra's back, and I've got my own allies looking critically at me."

"It was a shock to me and my colleagues.." He added.

"That Hydra is still alive?" Stephanie asked.

Wilson just looked at his wife and nodded wearily. "And the fact that they used a virtual video game of all things to cover up a mind control experiment..."

Stephanie softly gasped. "That's vile."

"And that's not all,..." He continued. "I've seen the footage of their leader molest two girls who were bound against their wills..."

"I saw it too while I was having breakfast with a senator's wife," Stephanie scrunched her face. It wasn't a perfect way to start the day. "She nearly lost her breakfast."

"As almost everyone else..." Wilson added.

"Mr. President."

"That must be the video they're sending me..." Wilson explained. "It's a different one this time..."

He had the holo-screen lowered from the ceiling. Stephanie watched as the holoscreen flickers on and displays the holographic screen. It was indeed Asuna Yuuki, along with the boy she called her husband, Kirito, and another boy and girl in a living room.

"I recognize Asuna, Kirito, and Lexar..." Stephanie whispered... "But who's the other girl?"

"I think we'll see," Wilson whispered as he watched the recording. He turned up the volume in time to her the girl introducing herself as Asuna Yuuki. She directly addressed the American military's arrest of Captain Burke and the captain's accomplishments for the liberation of her comrades and ALO at large. In her speech, she denounced the wrongful arrest of the new Captain America as he, along with the Howlers, prevented Hydra's plans for their new world order.

Kirito also personally attested to the Captain's heroism in ALO, and specifically addressed how Burke had been entrusted with the mantle and refused to believe that America would turn its back on their own symbol. He also personally thanked Captain Burke for his heroism and urged the military brass to see his deeds instead of condemning him.

Lexar, clearly an American with his clear accent in English, told of how Captain America's warning about Hydra had saved him and his friends from walking into a Hydra trap. He even made personal appeals to Wilson to actually intervene in Captain Burke's arrest.

And last, the short, black-haired girl addressed how Hydra ruined the very thing that she considered as a second home to her. She thanked the Captain for saving her and her new family from a total nightmare, and hoped that people would also thank him. She told the US military to not be the ones to throw Captain America into jail, but reward him instead.

At the end, they started their names, and at the same time, they proclaimed. "And Captain Burke is our Captain America!" Followed by their salute before the video ended.

Stephanie was struck by this. While Bruce was speechless.

"Mr. President?"

"I-I'm here..." Wilson answered.

"Signals intelligence is reporting that more videos under that same hashtag were posted out of Japan. And they're being streamed across various media platforms and the internet."

True enough, there were other videos that were popping up on the screen. Wilson clicked on one from one identified as Agil.

"Hello everyone," He began. "You can call me Agil. I'm making this video alongside hundreds of other Sword Art Online and Alfheim Online survivors after the Total War in Alfheim."

"I've seen too many people die for nothing while being trapped in SAO.. And now we've seen a reborn Hydra not only kidnap three hundred of us, but tried to force of my friend's beloved into a marriage against her will... and launch a hijacked Alfheim Online to kidnap and brainwash more players into serving their vision of a New Order. And they would have succeeded if not only for the bravery of many volunteers, but also the leadership and bravery of one Captain America, Chris Burke."

"Without him, we would've been under Hydra's control. So it befuddles me as to how the United States military leadership that gave Burke such a mantle... Would throw him under the bus and charge him with recklessness..."

"I can tell you one thing that I learned from my father who served in the US Marine Corps..." He leans towards the camera. "We always watch each other's backs.. Whenever on the battlefield or at home. And you make the sacrifices so that the innocent can live their lives in safety and liberty... And good leaders, business or military, don't put on shows of bravado for their subordinates and turn tail when the going gets tough, which is what I'm afraid is happening to a faithful soldier and superhero of the United States Army."

"So I make a personal appeal to the officers and the President of the United States... I implore all of you to see the good deeds Captain Chris Burke has made and the disaster that he had narrowly averted... If there is any recklessness that's going on, it's on the part of the military prosecutors charging him in court-martial at this very moment."

"I'm Agil, and Captain Chris Burke is my Captain America..." Agil finishes the video with a salute. It was a salute of a true soldier.

"That man was an American too," Stephanie said.

"And he looked familiar..." Bruce tapped his chin. He then went to another video that was also receiving a lot of likes. He clicked on it and it begins to play.

"Hello... You can call me Spade..." The American teenager began. "Mr. President, commanding officers of the United States Army... The past two days were an extremely eventful one since the day we were trapped in Sword Art Online over two years ago... And we just suffered another crisis in yet another game where Hydra imprisoned and experimented on three hundred of us."

He paused for a moment before he continued. "And I've witnessed that madman tortured some of my friends... Including my cousin... All because he wanted to spread Hydra's vision of a new order... And he would've won... If not for the deeds of Captain America and the Howlers... While I'm happy that Hydra was defeated and their leader captured, I am upset that the military prosecutors are going after the Captain."

"Haven't they realized what would've happened if Hydra succeeded? Or what would the outcome be if Captain Burke didn't intervene? We need him as the next Avenger, and he certainly cannot do that if they put him in Leavenworth."

"And so, I urge you to see the good deeds of Captain Burke and rewards him, not condemn him. "President Wilson, do the right thing somehow and end this misguided persecution."

With a salute, Spade said, "I'm Spade, and Captain Burke is my Captain America."

That video ended. Leaving the Oval Office in silence. It was then that the phone rang. Wilson quickly picked it up.

"Yes?"

"Mr. President, Senator Daniel Burke here." That thick, southern voice of the senior senator from Tennessee came through the speaker.

"Senator Burke," Wilson replied, "to what do I owe this surprise call?"

"Don't beat around the bush, Bruce," Senator Burke retorted, "what is going on in Japan with my nephew?"

Well... you see-"

"My office is being flooded with calls from my constituents and members of the military since those videos started coming out of Japan," Senator Burke revealed, "and everyone is telling me that Captain America is being charged with military crimes."

"I'm aware of the videos, Senator Burke.." Wilson answered. "T-"

"Now listen here," the senator interrupted, "I don't know what's been happening with Captain Burke as of late, and he seems a bit rough around the edges, but I know him and his dad well enough to say that the charges of endangering national security and willful endangerment of personnel are completely out of character. Either I didn't know him well enough, or those prosecutors are blowing smoke out of their ears!"

"Am I supposed to believe that the hero of the Southwestern Civil War Front and a Medal of Honor recipient is supposed to be a war criminal!?"

"Well... I-"

"I thought things will be different after the Sokovia Accords failed and the civil war followed!" The senator interrupted again. "My colleagues and I received briefings from your people in the Pentagon on the Hydra threat that emerged in that same part of the woods. And now, after Hydra's return was revealed. Instead of investigating Hydra's involvements, the prosecutors decided to brand Captain Burke a war criminal!"

"Mr. President, I want to believe that you are a capable leader and an honorable man who has stood up for Steve Rogers and the Avengers in the past, but the actions of your military leadership and justice system do not inspire that kind of confidence!"

Wilson was left speechless.

"Are you there, Bruce?"

"I'm still here, Mr. Senator..." Wilson answered.

"The American people and my colleagues expect you to provide clarity and leadership with this military. Clear up the airwaves, or we'll have a crisis of confidence," Senator Burke warned, "if the Hydra threat is indeed as real and as imminent as Howler Platoon and your intelligence report, we do not need this gamesmanship from some misguided JAGs hung up on petty technicalities."

"Alright..." Wilson replied. "I'll get all of this cleared up, Mr. Senator... And you can be assured... that Captain Chris Burke, Captain America will be given due justice."

"Good... That's what I wanted to hear." Senator Burke replied. "And... and many of my constituents just wanted me to pass this on to you."

"Go ahead..." Wilson replied once again.

"They are saying... Captain Burke is their Captain America, the next Avenger... And they want that statement to be fulfilled."

"I'll look into this, I promise," Bruce Wilson said, "good night, Senator Burke."

"And good night to you, Mr. President."

The line went dead. Wilson sighed heavily as he sets the phone back down on the hook.

"Was that Daniel?" Stephanie asked.

"Yes... Yes it was..." Wilson answered.

"He didn't have to be that hard," she tried to support her husband, "it's not like you gave the order for Burke to be arrested."

"True... But he's right..." Wilson shook his head. "I need to provide clarity to the rest of the military and the American people what actually happened with both Captain America and Hydra."

He streamed the other videos from various SAO survivors. But he decided not to play them as he knew what the messages are. He then asked the aide in the room. "Can you get one of my military aides?"

"Sure, Mr. President.." He steps outside of the oval office. A few seconds later, he came back in.

The military aide greeted, "Mr. President."

"I want you to gather all mission reports and performance data on Captain Chris Burke," Wilson ordered, "be thorough and make any notes of anything that may have been missed or omitted."

"Will do, Mr. President.." One of the military aides replied.

"Have it ready by tomorrow morning... and with one more thing..."

"Yes?"

"Do not trust anyone, especially the JAGs right now."

"Should we survey everyone, sir?"

"Above your paygrade, officer," Wilson reminded, "get to it."

"Yes sir, Mr. President." The military aide got up and left the Oval Office.

"I've got a bad feeling about this..." Wilson groaned.

---

Naval Air Station Atsugi:

"Well... I guess this wraps up.." Jonathan groaned as he entered the barracks. The interrogation had taken forever.

"I just hope Alex isn't worried too much..." David lamented. "Especially after what happened..."

It was then that he saw a group of sailors crowding in a lounge around a TV.

"Wow, the brass really got it out for Burke!"

Shouzou Yuuki has joined with the Mitchells.

"What's going on now?" The young SEAL leader asked.

"There's a trial against Burke.." Another SEAL sailor answered.

Jonathan was befuddled as he and his father had not seen the news. "B-Burke's trial, what's going on?"

"The military brass accused Captain Burke for endangering both his unit and civilian players..." He gestures towards the TV set. "Army JAGs busted him."

"That's Taylor's older brother," Jonathan realized. The young Mitchell lieutenant pushed his way to the front of the TV, which showed footage of Chris being escorted by his superior and military police into Yokota HQ, along with his portrait.

"That's the new Captain America," Shouzou muttered.

"Wait... The footage's changed to a group of teens..." One sailor said.

"Hey it looks like that Asuna Yuuki girl and her lover!"

David observed the video that is being broadcasted. Sure enough, he sees the Yuuki girl with her lover. Then he spotted Alex with another girl.

"Alex?"

"That's Alex." Jon was stunned. "But who's the girl with the short, black hair? Didn't she have blonde hair?"

'Perhaps this is the same girl...' David deduced. 'And the blonde hair was her ALO avatar...'

Shouzou could not help but smile at seeing Asuna awake. And with her husband, Kazuto...

After Alex addressed his speech. The short, black-haired girl revealed herself as Leafa before addressing her speech.

'It is Leafa...' David thought.

The three watched as the four survivors declared their solidarity with "Captain Burke is our Captain America" and a hearty salute. Then the news anchorman then reports that a rise of videos supporting Captain Burke is taking the internet and news media platforms by storm in both Japan and America.

The network then featured one video by a man calling himself Eugene.

"Everyone calls me Eugene... I've been playing Alfheim Online since its opening..." Eugene began. "And when I've met this Chris Burke. I assumed that he's one of the player that managed to cheat the system... And when the game system's introduced the Industrial Revolution update. I didn't think much of it... That was until Asuna Yuuki revealed the truth about Alfheim Online and Hydra's plans for world domination... We all realized that we were tricked by this madman and teamed up with Captain America in stopping Hydra..."

"And we emerged victorious, only for the sweet taste of that victory to be embittered by Burke's military arresting him on charges of endangering the whole lot of us and disregarding our safety." He paused before he continued. "Even though our meeting was at a shaky start, but it wasn't his fault for trying to knock some sense into us. If he wasn't there, we'd still be warring against other factions unaware of being subjected as guinea pigs for Hydra!"

"And contrary to the charges, Burke was not the one endangering us players... So I urge the American military to see the actions of the new Captain America as good deeds instead of criminal acts... and put the blame on Hydra who are solely responsible for this debacle."

Eugene finishes his video with his heartily phrase.. "Again, I am Eugene, and Captain Burke is my Captain America.."

Shouzou was amazed at what Asuna set in motion yet again. Going from a meek gentle girl to a strong leader in the face of danger. And not only had she taken on and helped defeat Nobuyuki and his Hydra, one of the most dangerous to date, Asuna and her band of friends were even verbally taking on one of the largest and mightiest militaries on the planet. In fact, this almost reminds him of...

"Hey, there's another video playing." One sailor called out, disrupting Shouzou's train of thought. They see a man in his early-twenties with red spikey hair.

"Hello... Most of my friends call me Klein..." He began. "Now I don't know much about the military... But when some Hydra bigshots goes and kidnaps 300 of us and tried to get players to fight against each other... Captain Burke and the Howlers helped us through the fight... If not for them, we wouldn't be able to rescue our fellow survivors... Including my friend's woman..."

"I get that there are rules and stuff in the world of armies where these Howlers come from... but arresting a war hero after what just happened, ain't cool America. I thought the nation would be different after the civil war... But it seems that it hasn't changed its ways after the Accords failed... And I thought Akihiko Kayaba was the biggest jerk in the room!"

"So... For the American President, and all the US government officials and military brass that are watching this. Don't try to imitate the old US government. Live up to the oaths you've sworn to protect and drop the charges against Captain Chris Burke! He's a real American hero and the next Avenger, and we survivors will not stand for this persecution!"

"Again, I am Klein! And Captain Burke is my Captain America!" Klein saluted towards the camera before ending.

"Man... The kids' are determined to vouch for Captain Burke..." Jonathan commented. He then began to think about the other Burke, Taylor. "If only you were still alive..."

David watched on as yet another video plays.

"Um.. Hello... The name's Spike..." He began. "I don't particularly know Captain Chris Burke well... But I do know Kirito, Asuna, and Lexar from SAO... Even though I didn't participate in Kirito's and Lexar's rescue team. But I've witnessed the events that were unraveling while I logged onto ALO..."

"I thought I had seen true horror in SAO, but I never dreamed I would see Hydra revived in Japan and kidnapping my friends. Even within ALO, I've witnessed a Hydra agent disguised as one of the players tried to take a shot at the Colonel. I managed to stop him. It may have started the Total War in Alfheim. But it would've been worse if Captain Burke and the Howlers weren't there to protect my friends..."

"Burke... Captain America, and Colonel America brought us together and saved so many... And the court-martial he's receiving from the military brass is unnecessary... I hope that the US military reconsiders and rewards Captain Burke for his deeds... I would hope that he is awarded a medal instead of jail time."

"Again, I'm Spike... And Captain Burke is my Captain America..." That video ends.

It was then, one of the Navy SEAL leaders approached the crowding sailors. He made his way towards the crowd and spotted the Mitchells and Shouzou Yuuki.

"Captain, Lieutenant, and Mr. Yuuki..." He said.

Jonathan groaned. "Still more debriefing, I know..."

"Actually... I've came over to tell the three of you that you debriefing has ended..." The Navy SEAL leader explained. "They've gotten everything that they needed."

"That's good to hear.." David smiled.

"But they just arrested Taylor's older brother," Jonathan pointed to the screen.

"They did..." The SEAL leader replied. "However, we're getting reports that SAO survivors and ALO players are flooding the cyberspace with their videos supporting the Captain..."

He then looked back to Jonathan. "And counting too..."

"But he just saved my brother, why would the Army do that!?" Jonathan was confused.

"It doesn't matter... The thing is that the videos are spreading throughout Japan and America. Even some of the sailors are considering of support Captain Burke..."

"Darn right we do," one sailor chimed, "some of ours were in SAO and ALO!"

"One of my friends went into ALO and stuck his neck out to get those Army boys through!"

"My little sister joined with the Howlers in ALO to help defeat Hydra!"

"We need to complain to the Pentagon and White House about this."

"We've took an oath to serve and defend America and the free world! It's time we honor that oath!"

"I agree," Jonathan got everyone's attention, "and believe me when I say that I owe it to him and his unit, and to the memory of Kyle Felix and his brother Taylor Burke. They've save those 300 players from SAO and more in the world... Including my baby brother..."

"I'm not about to let Chris go to jail on what I think are flimsy technicalities in light of the threat he faced. And we need to show them that Hydra's return is a greater threat to the free world."

David Mitchell then smiled. "I'm going to write a personal letter of appeal to military courts and the White House as well... I also owe him a debt of gratitude."

Shouzou Yuuki continued to be amazed. Asuna's message has spread throughout the US military.

"I may be a navy captain, but Captain Burke is my Captain America," David said.

"It's good to have the two of you on board.." The SEAL leader smirked. He then revealed a petition. "I just got this from Burke's lieutenant serving in Howler 7-1..."

"Lieutenant Jack T. Preston..." He read.

"You got a pen?" Jonathan asked.

The SEAL leader hands him a pen. Jon quickly snatches it and signs his name on the line. David followed with his own.

"May I sign my name as well?" Shouzou asked. "I too owe him a true debt for helping save my daughter and son-in-law... twice."

"Sure... Just sign your name here.." David hands the Yuuki patriarch the pen.

"This should draw some attention," Shouzou muttered as he signed.

"The more, the merrier.." Jon quipped.

---

Yokota Air Base:

Colonel Rogers was finishing up his testimony.

"So with my own honor on the line..."

"Very well, Colonel Rogers..." The judge wrote in his notes. "You may be seated..."

"Next witness... Captain Thomas Anderson."

'Here goes nothing...' Anderson thought as he stood up and approached the judge. Chris just gave a slight nod to Anderson, which was hardly noticed.

"Captain Anderson..." The judge began. "You were in charge of scanning the codes and jury-rigging the VR helmets for the mission. Correct?"

"Yes, your honor... I was..." Anderson answered. "I was the main technical officer for Operation Finalizer."

"What were your thoughts whenever Captain Burke logs off of the ALO servers?" The judge pressed, "How he behaved?"

"To be honest, I was only concerned about the 300 players that were held in ALO..." Anderson answered. "I just assumed that it was the effects on the VR's FullDive technology. So I've scanned it myself for any defects..."

"And?" The judge probed.

"It merely turned out to be some coding that interacted with the Captain's brainwaves."

Care to explain how that came to happen?" The judge continued pressing.

Captain Anderson gave a glance over to Captain Burke. It was then he said, "it was my fault, your honor. In order to have the avatars made for the mission.. I used the codings from both Alfheim Online and the infamous game Sword Art Online..." He continued. "... However, when I did a second scan, I've noticed that the codings in both game servers are similar... and that was because I used the coding of a deceased SAO victim." The last answer caused an uproar.

The judge bangs the gavel to quieten the courtroom. "Order!"

"It's true," Anderson said, "my team and I created Burke's avatar from a deceased SAO victim who shared his physical characteristics... Which was the cause of the changed behavior..."

Chris looked to Anderson, wondering why he took the blame when it was Fury who was as responsible.

The judge seemed to scrutinize the industrialist soldier. "And why would you do that?"

"Like I said, the codings that were used to make ALO were from SAO..." Anderson answered.

"You already said that, now explain who this victim was and why."

Anderson hesitated for a moment... Before he answered. "Taylor Burke..."

There was uproar that flooded the court room. The judge banged the gavel several times before the court room fell silent.

"Why would you do such a thing?" The judge seemed quite displeased by this revelation.

"Before I answer that, mind if I ask a question... That is, if you don't mind, your honor..." Anderson asked.

"You may, but bear in mind that it is still you under questioning at the moment."

"I haven't forgotten that, your honor..." It was then Anderson asked. "Supposed that I've created the avatar for Captain Burke using the physical appearance of his deceased brother... What would you think I would've done to prevent that? Perhaps take longer to create a perfect avatar for Captain Burke... And my team and I believed that using his brother's combat data and merging it with his own would increase survivability and mission success probability."

Anderson continued. "And if we'd waited for an improved avatar, it would've been too late and Nobuyuki would've achieved his goal he'd set since the civil war... So, I skimmed the progress in order to keep up with the time table on the mission..."

"And were you aware of this, glitching issue it may have caused?"

"More or less... But I've done the best to patch it up long enough for the mission to be completed in ALO... So if you want to assign any blame, lay it all on me, but keep Burke's name clean. He's a hero, and did his darndest to save millions."

There was silence. The judge pondered Anderson's statement. "You may be seated."

Anderson sat back down.

The judge breathed. "Well, both sides have presented their evidence and testimonies. This trial will be continued tomorrow... and will give both defendant and prosecution time to present their final testimonies and arguments while we ponder the evidence."

"Until that time however, Captain Burke is to be detained here at headquarters until further notice. Bailiff."

The Bailiff approached the judge..

"Take Captain Burke to his assigned quarters for the night and under guard. This court-martial is adjourned," the judge sounded his gavel.

Everyone begins clearing the court room. The bailiff and some armed soldiers came alongside Chris. "This way, Captain Burke."

"Right," Chris acknowledged as he left the podium. He gave his superior officer and friendly rival a glance before he went through the door. Captain Anderson and Colonel Rogers leave the court room.

"So what do you think, Colonel? What are his chances?" Anderson conversed.

"For now... It appears to be fifty/fifty.." Rogers whispered.

"There's something strange how the JAGs were bringing out the technicians against him..." Anderson added. "I've seen this before when the old US government tried to convict Wilson after Campbell's death..."

"You remember?"

"Like it was yesterday... It's obvious that they're conspiring against him..."

"... just like the United Nations against our old Avengers after Lagos with Rumlow.."

"Correct..." Anderson nodded.

"I may be an old veteran," Rogers confided, "but I can smell rats from a mile away, and I get the feeling that we've got some festering even among the ranks of US Forces Japan..."

"I'm getting the same feeling too..." Anderson agreed. As they approached the Quinjet, Anderson looked around to see anything suspicious... He found nothing before turning around. "I just hope my plan works..."

---

Yuuki Manor:

"Asuna..." Kyouko watched as her daughter set in motion a viral trend of 'Captain Burke is my Captain America'. Deep down, she was relieved that Asuna didn't made her full allegiance with Hydra... but she knew seeing her again was going to be awkward. Especially since she was the one who personally hand-picked Nobuyuki to be her daughter's suitor in the first place.

And she nearly paid the price with her family and life. She wondered what she should say when she reunited with her daughter.

'Especially since she found for herself a different husband...' She was surprised that she was married while trapped in SAO. Was it really possible? Kyouko wanted to reach out to find out about this 'Kirito', but the media attention was on her, and she did not know if her connections could be contacted with all that had happened with RECT. There were also more pressing matters, such as regaining control of the family bank accounts, which were likely frozen to keep from falling into Hydra hands.

She looked out the front window through the closed drapes and she could still see the news press still camped outside. Kyouko made sure that the house's automated security kept them out. She especially did not want them finding out... family secrets underneath.

In short terms, she's trapped within her own home. Unable to go to work or basically anywhere... ... and she barely avoided mentioning her own powers to the authorities.

Kyouko held up her hands. It had been years since she used her powers.. She was forced to use them in order to save herself, Sada, and Ronin... Years of normality and self-control... all shattered that last night when the Hydra torturer shot Sada.

'It's been too long...' She thought to herself. She saw white sparks from her hands. She sought to regain self-control. After a minute passed and the white sparks begin to cease. Yet Kyouko could not deny it... her powers had returned after decades of dormancy.

Shortly after, the white sparks stopped completely... She'd regained control of her powers. She sat back in her chair... It was then her cell phone rang. Startling Kyouko for a moment before she picked it up and read the caller ID.

'Kouichirou...' She quickly answers it. "Son?"

"Mother..." Kouichirou answered. "Did you hear the news?"

"Asuna is talking about Captain Burke, the new Captain America," he added.

"I have seen her and her friends vouching for him..." Kyouko said.

"He saved Asuna and her boyfriend from being kidnapped by Hydra, twice from what I heard," Kouichirou said, "and now the military wants to jail him."

"But now they're support for Captain America in media platforms in both Japan and the States..." He added.

Kyouko was astonished, who'd knew that Asuna's video tread would spread across the nation? Not to mention across the Pacific. "And you said, Captain America?"

"That's right... But Captain Chris Burke is the new Captain America, not Steve Rogers..." Kouichirou explains. "He was in ALO and at Asuna's hospital fighting off Hydra."

"H-He was?" Kyouko asked. First his Kazuto, now the new Captain America were present at Asuna's hospital?

"I've heard of him when I was in Dallas," Kouichirou said, "but I never figured that's he'd be here in Japan as the new Captain America."

"Anything else about Captain Burke?" Kyouko asked.

"Other than being a Civil War Honor of Medal veteran and just saving my sister and her boyfriend from being Hydra prisoners," Kouichirou said...

"Have you, by any chance, contacted Asuna?" She then asked.

"I need to see... maybe her old phone..."

"Let me know if you've called her... I just wanna know how she's doing..." Kyouko pleaded.

"I... I will, Mother."

"Thanks... And... let her know that your father and I are safe."

"I will, mother..." It was then that a beeping from Kouichirou's phone was heard. "Gotta go mother, I have another call..."

"Okay then, Kouichirou, bye."

"Bye, mother..." The call ended. Kyouko then went about her business of calling her family's bank. She needed to secure the finances.

---

Kouichirou Yuuki:

He looked at the new number calling him. It was a number he didn't recognize. He clicked on it.

"Hello?"

"Kouichirou, son," Shouzou's voice sounded.

The Yuuki heir gasped in surprise.. "F-Father?"

"I'm calling from a military base," Shouzou said, "I know you are back in the country because of your concerns with Asuna and Hydra."

"I just saw Asuna's online video.." Kouichirou replied.

"So did I," Shouzou replied.

"It's unbelievable that the American military would punish their own heroes..." Kouichirou shook his head. "I thought they'd be different after the civil war..."

"No..." Shouzou suddenly said, "something is not right."

"You're telling me..." Kouichirou agreed. "I'm getting a feeling that something's off... But back to you, are you alright, Father?"

"I'm doing fine, son..." Shouzou answered. "It has been rough on us all..."

"Mother is at home, and the media is surrounding the house," Kouichirou said. "And Asuna's with her boyfriend..." He added.

"Boyfriend... Kazuto Kirigaya is her husband," Shouzou replied.

Kouichirou did a double-take. "Husband?"

"Asuna said that Kazuto... or Kirito was her husband on the livestream."

'How did I even missed that?' Kouichirou thought.

"And I can sense that she is in good hands," Shouzou sounded relieved and happy.

"Sounds like he's a better choice. Doesn't he, father?" Kouichirou asked. Noticing his father's reaction upon mentioned Kazuto's name.

"He is, indeed," Shouzou said, "and I have a feeling that I will be talking long and hard with your mother about what just happened."

"I hope so..." Kouichirou frowned. "Because all this has shamed RECT and everyone's questioning our family for what has happened..."

"And I intend to clear that name with me testifying against Nobuyuki for all the crimes he has committed," Shouzou revealed.

"Good to hear..." Kouichirou observed.

"And... are you at the RECT Headquarters right now?"

"Yes, I am..." Kouichirou explained. "I'm here to survey the damages caused by both Nobuyuki and Hydra..." He rubbed his head. "The executive suite wing is a loss... And the data mainframes are both wiped clean and corrupted... "

"And... Alfheim?"

"The ALO server's intact... But it's under the control of both the Japanese Military Police and the American's Howler Platoon... The soldiers have this place locked down tight, Father."

"I see... Very well," Shouzou shifted subjects, "can you do me a favor?"

"Sure... What can I do for you?"

"Go to Personnel Management, and begin the termination of Sugou Nobuyuki."

"Will do, father... I'll access it through my office computer here..."

"I want it as legally impossible for that devil to use anymore of RECT for his purposes... and then begin the process of rooting out all Hydra moles inside headquarters and identifying agents on the Board of Directors."

"I'll get right on it, father..."

"And I'll send for my drivers and guards to bring you home."

"Okay, same for you too... I'll be there, Father... after all... life in America was hard and very busy."

"See you later, son."

The call ended, and Kouichirou looked around the wrecked remains of the executive wing he was in. That he was sitting at a working computer was remarkable, but the discomfort that twelve Americans died in this very spot returned.

"This is gonna be one big clean-up operation..." He muttered to himself as he begins accessing the Personal Management file. "But one big and easy clean up first..." he began to access Nobuyuki's personnel file, "finally getting this bastard out of here for good."

He clicks on a few windows before he could reach the intended file.

"Kikuoka ensured no more traps, he told me..." he muttered. After filling out the forms on Nobuyuki's personal file. The computer begins to process.

"Nobuyuki... you're fired."

The computer finished its process and Nobuyuki's file read 'TERMINATED'.

"And now to make sure to make legal preparations..." Kouichirou began to make another phone call as he began to go through the computer at suddenly faster than normal speeds, "and to start rebuilding this company."

---

Kirigaya Residence:

Asuna tightened the strap on a kendo outfit that was lent to her. She viewed herself in the full-body mirror, examining the kendo outfit from head to toe.

"Not exactly the Knights of the Blood Oath outfit..." She commented.. "But it looks nice..."

"You can make any uniform look nice with that amazing body of yours," Kazuto said with a wiggled eyebrow.

"Kazuto..." Asuna giggled and blushes.

"What, just saying," Kazuto grinned.

"I know..." Asuna smiled before she twirled her body. Letting the kendo skirt fly up for a moment.

Suguha was likewise dressed and ready with her wooden sword.

"It's good to see that it fits you, Asuna..." Suguha smiled. "But are you sure you want to do this now?"

"I do..." Asuna answered. "Just to check if my reflexes are in check."

"Be careful, Sugu." Alex called from the side. "She really means it."

"I've been practicing Kendo since I was very young, and been playing Alfheim for a year..." Sugu reassured him with a smile. "... I'll manage..."

"Okay then..." Asuna picks up her wooden sword and readies herself in a fighting stance. Sugu then flexed her sword into a twin-handed fighting stance.

The two young women faced one another. For Kazuto and Alex, it felt like time has slowly halted. They waited...

Asuna swiftly sprung forward. Suguha raised her wooden sword and blocked Asuna's charge attack.

"Fast!" Suguha gasped. "Like lightning!"

Suguha thrust forward. However, Asuna quickly dodges the thrust attack. She held the wooden sword single handedly like a saber as she slashed.

"Yipe!" Suguha brought her wooden sword in a defense posture. Deflecting and blocking Asuna's slashes. Asuna pinned Suguha with just one hand on the sword.

"You're holding back, Sugu-nechan," Asuna told her. "Show me what you can do..."

"I thought we were doing kendo..." Suguha managed to laugh a bit as she strained.

Asuna giggled before she added. "I've learned several sword tricks in the first few months in SAO... And I'm sure you joined ALO for an even greater challenge."

Suguha realized what she meant. "You're right,"

Asuna suddenly backed off and flexed her sword again. "Now... Show me what you've got, Sugu-nechan." Suguha breathed hard and remembered Leafa's saber play. As she exhaled, her dark grey eyes shone with a manic grin.

"Okay then..." Suguha chuckled. The two women seemed to reach an understanding.

All of a sudden, Suguha charged forward at Asuna with her wooden sword. Asuna also charged and the two clashed swords with more vigor.

"Hyaahh!" Sugu yelled as she quickly pulled away and slashed. Holding her wooden sword like her Katana in ALO. Asuna did a high block and another before pulling back and thrusting. Sugu dodged the thrust attack.

"This ain't Kendo!" Alex laughed.

"She's tapping her inner-Sylph." Kazuto smiled. The two young men watched their women go at it excitedly as though they were their alter egos. Suguha was finally matching Asuna's lightning sword skills.

"You're just like Kazuto-niisan," Suguha gasped excitedly. "Only faster."

"That's the reason why everyone calls me Lightning Flash..." Asuna grinned. The two ladies then did a low clash as they gazed into each others' eyes.

"Believe me... I had to learn quickly and act quickly as well..." Asuna added.

"So I gathered!" Suguha gathered pushed Asuna and backed off before attacking with a series of slashes, "and fighting those bounty hunters and Hydra taught me much as well!"

Asuna quickly blocked every single slash attacks with ease.

"Too easy!"

"Try this!" Suguha went for an upward slash. Asuna narrowly dodges the female Kirigaya's slash attack.

It was then that Suguha recovered and went for the over the shoulder stab just as Asuna went for a side swing. Both girls' wood swords went for their masks.

Loud cracks were heard as masks went flying.

"Whoa!" Both Kazuto and Alex exclaimed. Both Asuna and Suguha stumbled back with their hair all waving around. While they were clearly shaken, both had manic grins of satisfaction.

"I gotta admit," Asuna breathed, "that was incredible... You actually gave me a real challenge, Sugu."

"Thanks, Asuna-nesan..." Sugu gasped. "You gave me a real challenge too..."

Kazuto and Alex quickly came up to their respective beloved girls.

"Wow, Sugu... That was amazing!" Alex hugged Suguha.

"I'm a kendo champ..." Suguha breathed.

"And I assume that you've use ALO to increase your Kendo skills..." Asuna deduced.

"Yeah!" Suguha grinned.

"You did amazing, Asuna..." Kazuto nuzzled his wife.

"Mmm... Kazuto..." Asuna gazed in her husband's eyes lovely before she plants a sweet, passionate kiss to his lips.

"Mmmmmm..." Asuna hummed. She stuck her tongue deep as if thrusting her sword.

"Mmmmmmm..." Kazuto moaned, feeling her tongue wrestling against his own.

Alex rewards Suguha with a kiss as well.

"A-Alex... I... uhhhh..." Suguha wearily tried to protest, but gave in.

"Mmmmmm..." Alex hummed as he deepens the kiss. Suguha's arms wrapped around him, pulling in each other's embrace.

Minetaka suddenly walked in.

Suguha sees her dad and suddenly pulls away. "Hi dad."

"Hi Suguha... and Alex."

"Asuna and I were practicing Kendo..." Suguha smiled. Trying to break the awkwardness. Alex, on the other hand, was blushing as he was caught smooching Sugu.

"And clearly having fun during and after," Minetaka said as Kazuto and Asuna ended their kissing with pink cheeks.

"We sure did, Minetaka-san..." Asuna giggled.

"Hi Dad," Kazuto quickly recovered, "what brings you in here?"

Minetaka breathed deeply. He then gave Kazuto and Suguha earnest looks. "Two things... I went to our nearest precinct..." He fished into his pocket and produced something. Both Kirigaya kids gasped as he unfolded a gold badge and new ID indicative of the Metro Police.

"You're back on the police force?" Both Kirigaya asked.

"Restored to active duty and rank of inspector with the SIT," Minetaka announced, "pays to have trained many of the top officers now." He took off his winter jacket to show his dark blue uniform jacket and a semiautomatic pistol strapped to a chest holster underneath. "A bit surprising, but glad that they even had the old Berettas."

"Good to hear, dad.." Kazuto smiled.

Suguha and Alex looked to the elder Kirigaya in shock. Compared to the salaryman father at the publishing company that he and Midori worked at, this Minetaka Kirigaya seemed to stand taller with authority and a hardened face and posture. Even Asuna stood in shock from the revelations of her father-in-law's police uniform.

"And just this afternoon after my re-instatement, I just got my new orders from the top."

"When do you start?" Suguha asked.

"Actually now... I'm to ensure that Asuna Yuuki is under guard and makes it as a witness to the Nobuyuki trial." Minetaka then nodded towards Asuna. "Your safety as a VIP comes as priority from one Kikuoka-san and his task force."

"So, you'll be answering to Kikuoka?" Kazuto was surprised.

"At least for the moment, even though he is from Internal Affairs," Minetaka shook his head, "but with both the SAO Incident, and now the Hydra ALO Incident in so short a time... the Prime Minister himself has seen it fit for closer collaboration between Internal, Defense, and National Police to combat what is being seen as a coordinated internal terrorist threat."

"And what of the trial against Captain Burke?" Alex asked.

"That was the second thing," Midori suddenly came in. "The video tread you and your friends started have gotten positive reviews. Everyone's showing their support for Captain Burke... And yours truly has an article drafted for when I return to the office, to further explain to the readers the truth behind what ALO was."

"Really?" Suguha asked. "That's good to hear, mom..."

"The more people know the truth about ALO, the better..." Alex smiled.

"And I've chosen to ask your other friends to be my sources," Midori added. "Since they witnessed the actions and atrocities that took place in ALO..."

"I would have included you four as sources, but I want to avoid conflicts of interests."

"We could tell them that we've decided on our own accord..." Alex suggested.

"Or we can have our own interviews," Asuna suggested, "and let someone else host us. At the very least then, we keep Midori-san clear of that risk."

"Sure..." Midori agreed. "I'll find someone to interview you four..."

Midori then sighed, "but back to the Captain... there was no verdict."

"Once support for Captain Burke reaches the military brass..." Alex then said. "... They'll have to reconsider..."

"Or better yet the American president," Kazuto said, "but there seems to be no response."

"I'm sure they'll be a response..." Alex reassured him. "Probably not immediately... But they'll be..."

"At least they didn't convict him or anything," Suguha stuck her tongue out, "after everything we've been through."

"Tell me about it, Sugu-nechan..." Asuna agreed. "Kirito-kun... Kazuto-kun and I only know Chris-san through Taylor-san, but after all that, it's unbelievable that the nation he fought so hard for could let this happen to him."

"Which is why we've started the video tread. That way we can spread the word out what has happened and show Captain Burke our full support..."

"And I hope that Chris' countrymen cry out for justice to be served for him," Kazuto added as he hugged Asuna, "and for those who Hydra hurt and killed."

"I'm pretty sure that everyone, whenever in Japan, America, civilian and military, will be behind him..." Minetaka reassured them. "People just need to remember who the real enemy is."

Alex then added. "And no matter what happens... We're gonna be with them... Until the end of the line..."

Midori then clapped her hands, "anyways, I think we all can use a tea break. And I have some steamed mochi for us."

"Sure thing, mom.." Sugu beamed. "All this Kendo exercising has worked us up.." Asuna giggled from her sister-in-law's statement.

"I can go for mochi... and then help whip up something for dinner," Asuna beamed.

"I'd love that idea." Midori chimed. "I can't wait to see what else you could make."

"I was thinking..." Asuna gave a mischievous smirk to Kazuto, "of spicing it up a bit."

Kazuto blushes from his wife's suggestion.

"I know my husband's soft spot for such foods," Asuna giggled.

"Do tell..." Midori giggled as well. Everyone heads on inside the home.

---

Yokota Air Base:

Chris was led to his confinement quarters. He remained silent as they opened the door and escorted him inside.

"Dinner will be here shortly, Captain, make yourself comfortable."

"Thank you soldier," Chris replied as the door closed behind him. Chris sat at the end of the bed. The quarters he was placed in was very decent. But its plain nature and his circumstances made it clear that he was practically a prisoner until found guilty or not guilty. Chris knew too much of the military justice system to be fooled.

He pondered about Anderson's decision to take the blame for the effects caused by the jury-rigged VR helmet.

"That was Fury's prerogative..." Chris muttered. It was then he wondered where Fury was. He was either injured in the carrier attack, unaccounted for, or maybe trying to save his own butt. And probably leaving him here to rot.

"Just like intelligence to save their own skins."

He then went over to a water cooler placed in the room and got himself a cup. As he drank, it was then that Chris realized how thirsty and on edge he had been. He'd forgotten when was the last time he'd relaxed. Probably before this whole mission started.

As he finished his water, he then pulled out a photo that he was able to keep on his person. It was one of the few photos he chose to have printed as a memento...

It was Chris and Taylor Burke together at their home in Corpus Christi, smiling in their respective service uniforms just after their graduation from TMLA. Taylor Burke was all smiles and making a victory sign as he held up his diploma, while Chris himself stood tall and dignified, but nonetheless smiling in triumph.

He breathed out a sad sigh. "Taylor..."

He then pulled out another... this time with his bestie Kyle Felix and old flame Hailey Felix. The three were at a beach, with Kyle having an arm playfully around Chris' shoulder and raising a fist pump, and Chris himself having one arm around Hailey's slender waist. She had her two hands on Chris' chest.

Chris lowered his gaze away from the photo in shame.

"I wish you guys were with me..." He continued to gaze at the floor with sadness. Chris then felt something stringy and metallic in his pocket. He shook his head as he pulled out yet another memento... a golden Christian cross in a wooden ring decorated with the patterns of ornate sunflowers. It was a warm, but also saddening reminder of why he became Captain America in the first place.

It was also given to him as a gift. "And I wish... I wish I still had you here... Nadia..."

Chris sighed, "it's been hard being the Cap... hard with you gone..."

His thoughts were interrupted when a knocking on his door sounded.

"You may enter," he told the knocker. The door opens up and one of the soldiers entered with a tray of food on the plate.

"Dinner's ready..." He told Chris.

"Thank you, soldier," Chris accepted the tray. The soldier leaves the room and closes the door behind him. Chris saw the meal that was served to him. He looked at the steak that was presented before him. There was even a kettle and a cup... tea he guessed.

He picks up the kettle to pour himself a cup. He was a little unprepared for how heavy it was and tried to steady the spout.

"Ah." He burnt his support fingers and he let go of the ceramic vessel. It landed on a floor with a loud crash. The ceramic kettle shattered in pieces and tea spilled out everywhere.

"Great..." He muttered as he survey the mess he'd made. As he does so, he noticed something odd with the tea.

"What the-" he quickly stood up away from the tray and folding table. As he looked at the spilled tea and noted how it glowed a shade of blue.

"That's-" Chris quickly went to knock on the door. "Guards! There is something wrong with the drink."

A few seconds later, the guard opened up the door. "What is it?" He asked.

"There's a blue glow to it in the shade," Chris indicated. "somebody spiked it."

The guard looked at the spilled tea on the floor and sees a blue hue glowing in the liquid. "What the heck? The guard was shocked.

He was about to get a closer look.

"Don't!" Chris quickly jolted him back. "That's ionizing radiation. It's contaminated."

"We need a hazmat team in here ASAP," the guard spoke into his radio, "be advised of possible radiological contaminants."

"Copy that, we're sending up a hazmat team now.." The voice replied.

"Crud," the other guard with Chris muttered. "Let's get you out of here.." He ordered.

"It looks like you are coming with us to the canteen," the guard with the radio said, "best not to risk another one..."

Chris nodded and followed. He turned around to see the soldiers wearing hazmat suits with Geiger counters and hoses attached to chemical tanks entering the room. All of a sudden, Chris realized that he was not as safe as he ought to be...

---

Kirigaya Residence:

Suguha Kirigaya and Alex Mitchell laughed as they played a fighting game on a traditional video game console.

"You're not getting me that easy, Lexar!" Sugu laughed.

"Try this on for size, Leafa!" Alex guffawed as he mashed the buttons.

Sugu made a mock gasp as she witnessed her fighting character get hit with a multi-combo move.

"Oh no you don't!" Sugu mashed a combo of her own, countering his moves and knocking his character down. Kazuto smiled as he watched his sister and best friend get competitive. He didn't think he could derive such simple joy from seeing his sister have fun with these games.

"I got you now!" Sugu laughed as she's about to finish off Alex's character.

"You may think so... But I've got one move left..." Alex smirked. He then quickly wraps her hands around Sugu's waist and starts tickling her.

"Ahahahaha!"

"Tickle attack!"

Suguha tried to fend Alex off. But he gets the upper hand and tickles her stomach.

"N-No fair!" Sugu laughed. "K-Kazuto-niisan, h-help... haha... me...hahaha!"

"I think you g-got this handled." Kazuto snickered.

He then walked out to Sugu's protests. "Haha! T-traitor! Haha!"

"Looks like the Spriggan has conquered the Sylph warrior.." Alex teased.

Suguha continued to laugh her protests while Kazuto went to see Asuna and Midori.

"Sounds like your sister and best friend are having fun.." Asuna giggles.

"I don't know about Sugu, but Alex is," Kazuto chuckled as he watched Asuna cook with his adopted mother. They both talked about the spices they both use when cooking. Even Asuna talked about the drinks she'd made in SAO.

"Is that so?" Midori glittered.

"Yep... I could make it sometime..." Asuna smiled.

"We'll be looking forward to it..." Midori chimed.

Kazuto smelled curry, and hummed with delight.

"Hey Asuna," he said as he hugged her from behind.

"Hehe... Hey Kazuto..." Asuna replied in a honeyed voice.

"Did I ever tell you that your cooking smells and tastes even better in real life," Kazuto teased.

Asuna giggles. "Oh Kazuto... You sure love the meals I make..." She strokes his cheek with her fingers.

"And you're the sweetest thing in more ways than one." Kazuto suddenly licked Asuna's cheek.

"Eep!" Asuna squeaked in surprise. But then, she laughed. "Kazuto-kun, you are distracting me!"

"Sorry, Asuna..." Kazuto chuckled. He gives his wife a kiss on the cheek before releasing her from his embrace.

Midori gave Kazuto an amused look. "It's no wonder you two got along perfectly..." She smiled. "So young, and already into the marital banter and teasing."

Asuna turns around and pecks Kazuto on the nose. The two lovebirds were pink on the cheeks when they finished.

"Dinner will be ready soon..." Asuna said cheerfully.

"I can hardly wait.." Kazuto teased.

It was then that Minetaka came back in in uniform. Midori noticed him. "Ah, honey. Asuna and I were just about to finish up dinner. I did cook a little extra for the police watchers out there. They must be hungry."

"Thank you, Midori," Minetaka said, but he barely managed a smile.

"So... How's your first day back on the force, dad?" Kazuto asked.

"It's good, son..." Minetaka replied, "and strapping that Beretta and badge back on feel like putting on some old nice boots."

However, Asuna noticed that he was struggling to smile. "Minetaka-san, what's wrong?"

Minetaka seemed uncomfortable, but let it out. "There's been some chatter we heard on the radio from some of ours responding to an incident at Yokota Air Base."

This gets Kazuto's attention. "What happened?"

"It appears that someone tried to poison Captain America..." Minetaka replied in a dark tone.

"What!?" Kazuto was shocked.

"Tried?" Asuna was stunned. But she managed to question the male Kirigaya adult. "W-What did they try to do?"

"I don't know, Asuna-chan..." Minetaka said, "only that he's still alive and has been moved from his room. Though because of this, they are having to bring in other food supplies in case the rest is laced."

"What they were laced with?" Kazuto asked.

"Don't know... the situation is still fluid and under investigation," Minetaka said.

"But on an American military base?" Midori gasped, "I would think he was safe on one!"

Kazuto then realized. "Unless... Hydra..."

Asuna glanced over at Kazuto, and then remembered something... "Nobuyuki's American connection!"

Everyone's attention turned towards the Yuuki girl.

"It's his connection in America," Asuna said, "whoever it is must be inside the Pentagon and White House feeding Hydra information on their military's activities. He must be the one plotting to take out Chris."

"And he's the same who leaked Nobuyuki about the presence of both Chris and Preston in ALO." She added.

"Yes... you mentioned that," Kazuto realized.

She turned to Minetaka. "I believe Kikuoka should know about this, Minetaka-san. If his mole's still present at the Yokota Air Base, there's a chance they can catch him.."

"And he can then let the Captain's superiors know of the threat," Minetaka pumped his fists together, "and maybe find out whoever's betraying his president in the White House."

"Hope you have Kikuoka's number..." Kazuto reminded. "Unless you're gonna meet him in person..."

"I need to make a call," the old officer excused himself as he pulled out his police phone. "Hello, Chief, this is Kirigaya... I need you to patch me to Kikuoka..."

"This is quite an emergency, Chief..." Minetaka was heard as he walked out. Leaving Kazuto, Asuna, and Midori alone in the kitchen.

"I hope they catch the mole and question him..." Asuna uttered.

"I'm sure they will, Asuna..." Kazuto reassured her.

"But for an American to plot this against Captain America is atrocious," Midori said, "that young man is not being served well by his own country."

"But with the videos we've made. I'm sure that they'll get the US government's attention and act on it.." Kazuto replied.

Midori rubbed her head. "I've seen too many government betrayals and incompetence in my lifetime. Sorry if I'm upset, but I am."

"We understand, mom..." Kazuto said.

"Our own government was not able to help you and Asuna, and I'm fearing that Captain America is in a similar danger," Midori said.

Silence filled the room. Midori hugged herself. Kazuto and Asuna went up and hugged Midori.

"I'm sorry, but this is bringing back bad memories..." She embraced her son and his wife.

"It... it was very difficult for me and Sugu."

"I'm very sorry, mom..." Kazuto said with sympathy and regret.

Asuna was silent, but realized the whole injustice with Captain Burke and the ALO Incident brought out raw emotions. She clung onto Kazuto and Midori as the revelations of Hydra's agenda sets in.

---

Minutes later:

Minetaka returns after making his call to Kikuoka.

Suguha and Alex were just headed to the dining room as well. Neither of them realized what was transpiring.

"Hi, Daddy," Suguha greeted.

"Hi, Suguha..." Minetaka replied while stiffen a smile. Alex noticed the man's serious expression. He could tell that something's wrong and wondered if he should ask him. Alex ultimately decided against it, not wanting to rub Sugu's police dad the wrong way.

"I can see dinner's almost ready..." Suguha commented. Trying to brighten up the gloomy atmosphere in the room.

"Yes, Sugu-nechan," Asuna beamed.

"I wonder what you've cooked up this time, Asuna-nesan.." Sugu smiled.

"It's a dish of Tempura, with a side of Dango.." Asuna chimed.

"Tempura... Yum!" Sugu hummed with delight. "I love Tempura and Dango..."

"Wow, Asuna. It smells amazing..." Alex commented.

Even Kazuto hugged his wife and nuzzled into her neck. "Mmmmm... Such lovely meals you've prepared, Asuna.."

Asuna giggled and blushes. Even Midori smiled, taking her mind off of recent events.

"And of course the best reserved for my true love..." Asuna kisses Kazuto on the cheek.

Midori showed off the curry stew she and Asuna prepared. "Marital love with a side dish of motherly care," she quipped.

"I love it, mom..." Kazuto smiled.

"I bet you will," Asuna giggled.

"Let's dig in.." Suguha quipped.

The rice was set, with the stew and tempura in the middle of the dinner table. After that was done, everyone sat down at the table. Kazuto marveled at what Asuna made. Suguha and Alex likewise, did the same.

"My mouth is watering..." Suguha cutely moaned.

"I know what you mean, Sugu..." Alex agreed.

"Then by all means," Midori raised her hands with a smile. As the whole family sat, Alex said a quick grace. After he finished, everyone begins to dig in.

Kazuto tasted the pork and curry in his rice.

"Mmmmmmm..." Kazuto hummed with delight.. "Delicious..."

Suguha took a stick of shrimp tempura and sank her teeth in. "Mmmmmmm... Yummy..." Sugu cooed as she chewed.

"Like a slice of heaven," Alex moaned as he tasted his.

Asuna giggled while Kazuto snickered.

"Look like your sister and best friend enjoy my cooking, Kazuto-kun..." Asuna giggled.

"I think you just overloaded their taste buds, Honey," Kazuto complimented.

"Kinda like how I overloaded your taste buds when you tried my sandwich the first time?" Asuna smirked cutely.

"Exactly," Kazuto cheekily pointed a finger to Asuna, "now you see your magic touch on other people."

Asuna hummed from Kazuto's statement. "Perhaps whenever we go on picnics, I can make the lunches for everyone..." She said delightfully.

Midori hummed in delight. "Friends and Family picnics..." She added. She then took another bite of the curry.

"Such delicious shrimp..." Sugu took another bite.

"Indeed, Suguha..." Alex agreed. As he took another bite. "And I can see why Kazuto loves Asuna so much." He teased. "That magic touch really does wonders," Alex added.

"It sure does, Alex..." Suguha giggled.

Asuna blushed with happiness. Kazuto held Asuna's hand, who's also blushing with happiness. Despite the ongoing trial against Captain Burke, as well as the assassination attempt. Hope and happiness continued to grow between Kazuto and Asuna. The former's also happy for his sister/cousin that she found love for his best friend.

Minetaka also found it in himself to smile.

Midori sees this and smiled with him. While she was not too happy to see Minetaka throw himself back into the world of guns and political intrigue... She finds comfort that her children are not only safe and sound, but young love was blossoming. And come good and bad times, she and Minetaka would be there for them.

---

Yokota Air Base:

Colonel Rogers was not a happy super soldier tonight. Someone tried to poison Captain Burke in his quarters. He tried to see what it was, but some of the guards kept him back as hazmat crews examined the poisoned tea.

"Is Captain Burke alright?" Rogers asked.

"Don't worry sir... Captain Burke's been located to the canteen..." One of the guards reassured him.

"But now all our food supplies are suspect while hazmat's scouring them," another groaned.

"This is gonna make dinner plans difficult..." Another joked dryly.

Colonel Rogers just shook his head as one of the hazmats came out. "The room's been cleaned of contamination, sir." He said.

"What kind of poison could cause this much of a ruckus, if I may ask?" Rogers asked politely.

"Polonium. It was placed in the tea." One of the Hazmat crew replied.

"Polonium?" Rogers asked.

"Polonium's a highly radioactive chemical element with alpha radiation. It has no stable isotopes chalcogen and chemically similar to selenium and tellurium." The Hazmat crew explained. "It's basically something you get as a product of a nuclear reactor."

"Just like those atomic bomb dropped on Japan at the end of the last World War," Steve said as he remembered his reading on WW2 history after he sank into the ice.

"Correct... It was a good thing Captain Burke accidentally dropped the tea kettle... If he'd taken a drink from it..."

"It would have been one nasty surprise," another hazmat said, "and the fact that he could even see the faintest glow indicates that whoever did this really wanted him dead. There's more polonium in this tea than is necessary for most people. Our guess is that our killer wanted to be sure that no amount of super soldier resistance could save Burke."

"But the real question was who tried to poison him?" Asked another hazmat.

The former Captain America silently thought to himself. He recalled Asuna's words about an American connection. Could he be inside the base?

'No,' he then remembered, 'she said that he's somewhere in Washington... which means he's got people in other parts of the military...'

'Then again, it could be more of Hydra spies in Japan...' He deduced.

"We'll leave that up to the Army Police," Rogers ordered, "in the meantime, increase security around the Captain."

"Affirmative, Colonel..." The guards saluted.

"I want access to him as airtight as they make it around the President these days," Rogers added, "guard him like you would President Wilson."

"Yes sir..."

"Carry on," Colonel Rogers then turned back to his own quarters. The second he closed the door. He opened up his laptop and turned it on. It was then he got a call. He checked the caller ID and smiled.

"Sharon Carter... It's been a while." Happy to have learned the functions of social media, Steve pressed on the call button.

"Hello? Steve?" The woman's voice called from the other end.

"Hello Sharon," Steve voiced.

"How things going over in Japan?"

"Well, far more adventurous than any of us hoped for," Steve sighed as he crossed his arms, "I'm sure you've seen it all."

"I've heard you've come across survivors of the Sword Art Online death game..." Sharon added. "And at least two of them know your new Captain quite well."

"Not to mention they were brave too..." Rogers smirked.

"So... is the Captain alright? I heard about the polonium attempt against him."

"He's alright... He's been relocated to the canteen... And now the food supplies had to be inspected in case of tampering..."

Sharon breathed hard. "So Hydra has come back after all. I thought Coulson would have taken care of them."

"I thought so too..." Rogers sighed. "But they seem to keep coming back..."

"I should have known they would never be so easy to destroy after the whole Insight affair." Rogers added. "Zola himself disproved my assumptions that it would simply die with just one man."

"And their last stand in Novi Grad, Sokovia. If I recall..." Sharon replied.

"And I myself saw to it with the rest of the Avengers," Rogers shook his head. "Of course, it now makes sense that Nobuyuki would regrow Hydra in a corner of the world least likely to attract global attention."

"What do you think would happen now that Hydra's back?" Sharon asked.

"I don't know, honey," the veteran super soldier said, "but something about this Hydra feels different. These guys are much craftier than the other Hydra I've fought before, and I doubt we've seen the last of them."

"I'm just worried for you, Steve..." Sharon replied.

"Hey, who are you talking to?" Steve laughed a bit, "and I'm about to marry a loyal bodyguard and spy who stuck with me through thick and thin against all of Hydra's schemes and every alien invasion since."

"You're right, Steve..." Sharon chuckled a bit. She felt better from his statement. "Just make sure you're always on your toes now that Hydra's back..."

"And I trust that you will help clean things up at home," Steve complimented Sharon, "a lot of soldiers are now counting on you and your team."

"Whoever it is selling you out and trying to assassinate Captain America, we'll find him," Sharon assured, "and he will see justice like that pervert."

"He will, dear..." Steve replied. "I've ordered the guards to increase security around the base. I'm going stay with Burke through thus, and I won't let an assassin take him from us."

"Okay, honey..." Sharon added. "I love you, Steve..."

"I love you too... see you later, Sharon."

"Good night over there, Steve..."

"And... good day to you," Steve finished as Sharon ended the call. He leaned back in the chair and sighed.

"Well Lord Almighty... here we go again."