Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“It’s a been a while since you’ve called me, Director Scott, what’s the assignment this time?” Jackie asked, signature smile on her face.

Ben Scott sighed from his office chair. Her eyes shone with charisma and an obvious giddy curiosity. He paused for a bit, leaning forward to demonstrate the gravity of this situation.

“There’s a threat, Taylor. A big one. I’m assembling a team of heroes to help face it,” he starts. He hesitates a bit before looking straight in her eyes. “I want you to be the captain.”

Jackie was stunned, and for good reason too. She wasn’t really that big of a help to S.H.E.I.L.D. normally. She had skills, but only in missions for information gathering or mild espionage. She had never really been in a physical fight. And a ure, she worked every now and then with some other agents, and she was pretty popular when she was around, but leading a team?

Ben sighed again, and for a brief moment he rethought his choice. He left her sitting there in shock for a moment as he shuffled through the files on his desk, eyes roaming until he found…

File Name: Jaqueline Taylor; Alias: Black Widow.

"Lived a pretty normal life in a small New Jersey town. Popular, prom queen, had a boyfriend, she was basically the perfect high schooler. Unfortunately for her, her dad got wrapped up in some bad deals with the Soviets, specifically Dreykov.

They kidnapped her—not with much pushback from her parents—and basically schooled her for her college years. Thankfully, Dreykov took a liking to her. She was spared the harsher life in the Red Room for a more specific approach. He created a super spy, using her wit and carefully crafted charisma from years of high school social experiences to infiltrate high security events, which is how she earned her codename.

After her years with Dreykov, he let her go on a long mission, assuming she would continue doing jobs for him after the “kindness” he showed her. To no-one’s surprise, she escaped back to her hometown to meet up with her childhood best friend.

They’ve been living pretty much off the grid from then until now, but occasionally Jackie will do some jobs for S.H.E.I.L.D. if we ask. She’s been a pretty reliable asset.

Director’s Notes:

Advantages: She’s charismatic, confident, a good leader when she wants to be, and can use her people-skills for infiltration.

Disadvantages: She has never truly been in a physical fight. She can be entitled and sometimes passive-aggressive, which might anger the team.

Overall, she’s a necessary asset to motivate the others, but only if she can learn to step up when things inevitably start to go south.”

Director Scott turned his eyes back to the girl in front of him. She was now sporting a bright smile, her wavy honey blonde hair framing her face.

Jackie started speaking. “Wow, I—”

“No, don’t answer yet. Do you know why I chose you to be captain?” Director Scott asked simply.

Jackie opened her mouth but was cut off again.

“You’re not the strongest, that’s Shauna. Not the smartest, that’s Taissa. Not even the nicest or most inspirational, that’s probably Charlotte and Van.”

“Is this a pep talk?” Jackie rolled her eyes.

Ben ignored her. “Look, you have a good head, and you understand people. I mean…Nat’s maybe got you beat on both of those fronts…”

“Did you even mean to call me in here?” Jackie deadpanned.

Director Scott let out an uncharacteristic grin. “Yes, I specifically chose you for captain because you have something the others don’t: influence. You have charisma, you have wit. The others have strengths, sure, but they don’t have the qualities necessary to act as a leader. You have to be just selfless enough to put yourself in danger without being reckless. You need to be just selfish enough to know when to retreat without leaving too early. But that’s all going to be tested during this mission.”

He gave her one last piece of advice. “They’ll follow you Jackie, but only if you give them reason to.”

Jackie was stunned, seemingly not knowing how to react. She sat for another minute, before breaking out in a wide smile.

“I won’t let you down!” She shouts, making Ben wince.

“Ok yeah yeah, thanks,” Ben waved her down. “First order of business, get Shauna on board. I’ll contact you again with the meeting spot once we convince the others. And Jackie, I’ll only say this once. Thank you, you’re doing the world a great service here.”

Jackie grinned and stood up perkily. She walked out without another word, just a playful salute as she left.

Jackie was halfway out the door when she heard Director Scott muttering, “She probably didn’t listen to anything I just said…”

The S.H.E.I.L.D. carrier was just as cold as usual, and Jackie shivered as she stepped out of the director’s office. Her bright smile was practically glued to her face, this huge opportunity presented to her making her feel incredibly special.

Until, a certain familiar sight made her turn up her nose.

She turned to her right to see a girl with shaggy blonde hair leaning against the wall, cigarette in hand. The girl locked eyes with Jackie, then let out another long puff of smoke.

“Couldn’t you do that…well, outside?” Jackie raised an eyebrow.

The girl shrugged. “I don’t see a sign.”

“It’s just common courtesy,” Jackie scoffed.

“It’s a free hovercarrier,” the girl grinned lazily.

Jackie rolled her eyes and switched tactics. “Didn’t anyone ever tell you those are bad for your health?”

The girl widened her eyes and stilled. “No, really? That’s the first I’ve heard…”

“Actually?” Jackie smiled a bit, glad to be helpful.

“No,” the blonde deadpanned. “But if we’re trading advice, anyone ever tell you to mind your own business?”

Jackie gasped dramatically, her eyes going wide with hurt. The blonde girl pushed herself off the wall with a huff, taking a few steps towards Jackie. Jackie narrowed her eyes as the girl approached, making her pout even bigger as the girl shot her a grin. Jackie held her expression for another second...

...before shaking her head and returning the smile.

“It’s almost nice to see you Nat, I’m surprised the alcohol hasn’t killed you yet,” Jackie jokingly rolled her eyes.

“Oh fuck off, Taylor,” Nat laughed, shoving Jackie lightly, but Jackie could see the hint of a smile under that tough facade.

The two of them, as well as Shauna, had actually gone to the same high school in Jersey. They weren’t close, not at all, but they knew each other. Nat knew Jackie as the stereotypical popular girl queen bee of the school, and Jackie knew Nat as the stoner girl who was always smoking weed.

Safe to say, they didn’t get along. If they weren’t outright avoiding each other, they would sometimes get into little spats if one of them needed to let off some steam.

That was until Jackie was kidnapped, and Nat stopped seeing her around. She was reluctantly pretty worried about what had happened. Shauna was distraught about it, but Nat knew it wasn’t her place to go asking questions. They weren’t even friends. So Jackie’s wearabouts got buried under all the other shit she had to deal with on a daily basis.

Until one day, later in life, Natalie was called in for a S.H.E.I.L.D. mission.

“You’re going to be stationed on this rooftop, bring your bow obviously,” Director Scott said, pointing to the projected map in his office. “It’s facing the East side enterance. Your target will exit from this door, and then you take your shot. I trust you won’t miss”

Nat shifted her feet around from where they were propped up on the table. “That’s a great plan and all, but didn’t you say this was a high class party? Why would the guy just leave out the back alley?”

“Well that’s for your partner to take care of,” Director Scott said simply.

“Oh so it’s a two person mission, who’s the partner? Is it Travis?” Nat tilted her head.

Ben chuckled. “Martinez is not equipped to, let’s say, entice this target outside.”

Natalie raised an eyebrow. “Oh, some hot babe you found who’s also good at infiltrating events? Damn you really know how to pick ‘em.”

“Nat please,” Ben sighed, making Natalie grin a bit. Just then they heard a knock on the door. “I guess there she is. Come in.”

And nothing could’ve prepared Nat for who walked through that door.

Jackie Taylor, basically back from the dead, ex-high school queen bee and now apparently turned spy.

Nat gaped, and Jackie stared at her in shock.

“Jackie Taylor!?”

“Natalie!?”

But Nat could tell this Jackie was different. She saw that high school girl, the one who hid behind her jock boyfriend, who led Shauna around like a dog, who focused so much on appearances, and that just wasn’t her anymore. Jackie still wore makeup, and still had her signature smile, but she seemed more…confident.

And not to mention the fact she was now apparently a spy. And she wouldn’t even get close to Nat before, and now they were on a mission together.

“Glad you’re not dead, Taylor,” Nat said simply.

“I could say the same for you, Nat,” Jackie joked. She actually joked with Nat!?

Jackie stuck her hand out for a handshake, and Nat took it. Right then, something unspoken formed.

It wasn’t friendship, but it was some level of trust.

The mission was a success. Since then Nat and Jackie hadn’t gone on any more missions together but they would see each other around every now and then. They still argued, but there was lighter air to their relationship now. They had bonded over the shared circumstance of an unfortunate situation leading to an even weirder job.

Jackie had tried to tell Shauna about it, but it was kinda hard to describe her and Natalie. And Shauna got weirdly pouty about it every time Jackie brought it up so she just didn’t try.

“I heard we’re teaming up again,” Jackie slowly, rocking on the balls of her feet.

“Oh fuck me, you’re gonna get us killed, princess,” Nat grimaced.

Jackie shoved her. “Hey, it’s captain now actually,” Jackie mocked raising her eyebrow.

Nat raised an eyebrow. “Oh? Congrats I guess dude.”

“Thanks Nat!” Jackie exclaimed happily.

They were interrupted by someone loudly clearing their throat. They looked to see Director Scott standing in the doorway, eyebrows raised as he looked between the two of them. He just shot a look at Nat before walking away.

“Seems like my cue,” Nat said a little awkwardly.

Jackie grinned. “See you around, burnout.”

Nat just chuckled. “Yeah yeah whatever. See ya, drama queen.”

Jackie watched for a minute as Nat walked down the hallway. She never understood how the blonde could look so cool and chill all the time. Jackie just smiled a bit to herself before starting her own path out of the helicarrier. She had to get home now, it was time to tell Shauna about the mission

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When Nat walked in, Director Scott sighed, but not without a hint of fondness. At this point they had worked together for so long that he had practically memorized…

File Name: Natalie Scatorccio; Alias: Hawkeye.

"Grew up in a trailer park with an abusive dad and a deadbeat mom. She had to fend for herself as a young girl against a cruel world, and god knows what she must’ve had to face. Her dad taught her to use a gun when she was little, and she would hunt around the woods around her trailer.

Until one day post high school, her dad blew off his own head. Natalie ran to live on her own, taking nothing but the clothes on her back and an old burner phone.

She never touched a gun after that, but the girl was resourceful. She somehow crafted a bow in the woods and taught herself to shoot using her old skills with a gun. She spent years crafting her shot, hunting on small game to feed herself and the other hungry children she saw around.

That was until S.H.E.I.L.D. found her and offered her a job. She didn’t want it at first, but the idea of a bed to call her own and a stable source of income was too much to turn away. She’s been working with us—however reluctantly—since then.

Director’s Notes

Advantages: She’s determined, fiercely loyal to those she trusts, emotionally perceptive, and has a strong moral compass.

Disadvantages: She can be self-destructive, quick-tempered, slow to trust, defensive, reckless, and doesn’t work well with others.

Natalie is going to keep this team together. They all have their strengths, but she has a kindness in her that just can’t be matched, if she can learn to work with them that is.”

The girl in question had sat down by now, looking familiar in the office chair. She sat slouched and uninterested, but Ben knew she was actually completely tuned in to his words.

“I already sent you the official briefing, so let’s just get into it,” Ben waved a hand. “Can you work with them?”

“I’m more of a solo mission person, you know that, Director,” Nat grinned.

“Natalie,” Ben urged.

Nat turned her head away, finally dropping the front to be a bit more serious. “Yeah, I can.”

“Even Jackie?”

Nat just nodded.

Ben shuffled through the files again, just to have something to do with his hands. “Do you disagree with my choice?” he asked. He didn’t need to clarify. He knew Nat would understand.

“No, I think you chose right,” Nat said quietly, still looking down at the desk.

“You knew her in high school, and you’ve seen her on a mission. You think she can handle it?” Ben raised an eyebrow.

Nat was silent for a second, considering.

“You know she played soccer in high school? She was always really into it. Full party, group hangout, team bonding shit,” Nat mused. “She would’ve been captain for sure in another world. She’s got the qualities for it.”

Nat turned her eyes back to Director Scott. Her eyes held a certain hidden trust.

“Jackie will make a great captain.”

Ben just nodded. If there’s one thing he’s learned, Nat doesn’t hand out praise easy. If she vouches for Jackie, despite how opposite the two of them are, then Ben has no choice but to believe in her.

“Ok that’s all. Thank you, Natalie,” Ben finishes.

Nat stands up with little flourish, just giving him a quick handshake and walking out. Ben watched as she left the room, reflecting on just how much she’s grown over the years.

While lost in thought, he barely registered someone else walking into the office.

“Done with meetings for the day, Ben?”

The director just sighed at the new voice and started pushing himself out of his office chair. Misty ran over to help him, but he waved her away.

She hovered as he made his way over to the door. “Are you going home now? Do you need company?”

“For the last time Misty, it’s Director—oh whatever. No, I have one last stop,” Ben sighed.

Misty must’ve have finally taken the hint, somewhat, because she let him walk in silence across the Helicarrier, following closely behind. Ben decided it wasn’t worth the effort to make her go away so he just continued on, slowly weaving through hallways into the very back of the ship: the Containment Center.

Ben punched in the access code, turning hardened eyes towards the steel door as it creaked open. Misty hesitated at the door, but quickly put herself into what she called her ‘professional agent mode’ and followed Ben inside.

The room was quiet except for the sounds of quiet murmuring and rhythmic taps on glass. Ben tampered down his sadness at the sight before him.

Behind the reinforced glass in a containment room sat what was once Travis Martinez. The man used to be a S.H.E.I.L.D. agent, sometimes going on missions with Natalie. He was professional, quiet, and loyal, which made him a good partner to the blonde girl.

Unfortunately, that all changed when it took his brother.

He went searching for his brother alone, which meant when he found what he was looking for, he was vastly overpowered.

Now the man, if you can even call him that, sits in the containment cell for research. He was infected. His skin hardened like a tree trunk, his eyes glowed faintly yellow like a rabid animal, leaves grew in spatters around his skin, but the most noticeable difference was the small antlers growing out of his head.

“Javi…Javi, he—no,” Travis muttered. Ben took pity on the ex-agent and cleared his throat.

Travis whipped his head up, showing piercing golden eyes to the two visitors. Ben took a step forward, Misty right behind.

“Hello Travis,” Ben said simply. “Can you talk to us again? Tell us what you see.”

“Darkness, wind, fire,” the man murmured, slowly getting louder. “She’s here, she’s everywhere. The trees, they speak. They warn me. Javi—Javi no!”

Ben stepped back in the face of Travis’ clear anguish. Every time they spoke to him the man got less and less coherent. It was taking over, and fast. He probably didn’t have much time left before he would become like the others.

“Please Travis, you need to help us. Who took your brother, who are we looking for?” Ben pleaded.

Travis stopped his pacing and muttering, becoming deathly still. Ben and Misty tensed up, before Travis let out a scream full of despair and hatred. He banged his head against the glass, leaves falling out of his hair as blood spattered. The agents shouted at him to stop but he continued throwing himself around the room with pained yells.

And then, he stopped. It was quiet.

He turned a bloody head towards the two agents in the room. Glowing eyes turned to Ben’s leg with a small smile.

“She’s coming for you. It’s already in you,” Travis said clearly.

Ben tensed up, and Misty stepped forward protectively.

“It’s in you, she’s coming,” Travis sing-songed. “You can’t escape it, you can’t escape the Antler Queen.”

He turned fully towards them and whispered one last sentence, a warning in his last moment of clarity.

“The Wilderness is coming.”

And then, he dropped to the ground, leaves shriveling up and turning to dust around him. Travis Martinez was dead.

The silence was cold, pointed. Ben stood next to a finally quiet Misty as they both processed what had happened.

Finally, Ben turned towards the door. He slowly walked away from the bloody glass, trying not to put too much pressure on his missing leg. The prosthetic helped, but long days like this just made it ache so much more.

He tried not to look down, knowing he’d only find hardened tree trunk skin and a few leaves sticking out of the stump that used to be his leg.

If it weren't for Misty cutting it off when she had, Ben would probably be just like Travis right now.

Ben sighed, looking towards Misty who was still trailing behind him. He finally looked back towards containment, down at his leg, and up towards the sky for a single plea.

“God I hope this team works. The world really needs some heroes right now.”

Chapter Text

Ben shuffled the files idly in his hands as he stood in the elevator up to the penthouse, Misty loyally by his side. Before the doors opened, he took one last glance at…

File Name: Taissa Turner; Alias: Iron Woman.

"Genius. Billionaire. Philanthropist. At least that’s what she calls herself, and with good reason too. She was born to the wealthy Turner family and given a pretty good start to life. Her parents specialized in weapons manufacturing, which gave her access to a lot of materials early on. She probably had the best home life out of the bunch.

One day she was kidnapped by terrorists using her parents’ own weapons. She ended up building the first Iron Woman suit by herself to escape. When she got out, she very publicly declared her new role as Iron Woman.

She’s been living in her own Turner Towers for now, helping Manhattan in her free time.

Director’s Notes:

Advantages: She’s a genius, no doubt about it. She’s ambitious, determined, brave, and takes initiative.

Disadvantages: She can be ruthless in her tactics to win, which can make her a bit emotionally distant and controlling. And of course, there’s the other problem…

Overall, a necessary asset to the team with her brain and brawn. Some of the others should balance out her harsher characteristics.”

Unfortunately, the proposal didn’t go too well at first.

“Oh hell no.”

Ben tried not to groan like a petulant child, but Taissa Turner’s stubbornness really wasn’t making it easy for him.

“Come on Tai, it’ll be fun! Kicking evil butt with your ex—” Yeah, and Misty wasn’t helping either.

Ben made a brief note to send Laura Lee to get Charlotte. Misty just wasn’t convincing, who would’ve guessed.

Tai glared at them, the light from the windows of her penthouse making her eyes seem even sharper. “Yeah no. One, none of these people have ever even met, how are we supposed to take down a whole organization or whatever? Two, you’re literally just asking me because you want to use my towers. And three, there’s no way in hell I’m joining a team with her.”

Well, at least they were right about her being observant.

“Ok, let’s just pause for a minute here,” Ben started. The raised eyebrow he got in response almost scared him, and he had fought literal aliens.

“One, we’ve crafted this team to boost everyones strengths and balance out the weaknesses, it’ll work. Two, we need you for your brain, but the towers as headquarters would be appreciated. Three, you’re supposed to be a professional, can’t you get over whatever thing you have with you ex for the sake of the damn world?” Ben sounded nearly incredulous at the end.

Taissa turned around, her face clearly showing that she was fuming. They gave her a bit of time, watching her brain calculate the options.

Eventually, she sighed.

“How fast did she say yes?” Tai asked, becoming uncharacteristically quiet.

Ben replied softly, “We got one sentence out. She heard it was a hero mission and agreed instantly.”

Tai smiled to herself. “Sounds like Van.”

Misty creeped closer, smile lighting up her eyes. “So does that mean you’re in?”

“Yeah, I’m in,” Tai sighed with a bit of defeat. “And you can use the towers obviously, there’s enough space to hold everyone and I have the best defense systems in the U.S.”

Ben raised an eyebrow but said nothing. He stuck out his hand and she did as well. They shook hands professionally.

“Oh I’m more of a hugger,” Misty said, launching herself at Tai, who swiftly put a hand out to stop her.

“No, we’re not doing that.”

“Oh…ok!”

Misty and Ben took their leave. On the elevator ride back down, Ben took a glance at the file about…

File Name: Van Palmer; Alias: Captain America.

"And also known as Taissa Turner’s other problem.

Vanessa, who likes to be called Van, was a frail kid from Brooklyn during World War II who desperately wanted to fight for her country to escape the pretty shitty home life she had. She was popular with the other cadets, known for her playful attitude and deep desire to do the right thing.

Because of how hard she worked, she was volunteered for a top-secret super-soldier experiment. They tested a super serum on her that transformed her into the peak of human potential. She was a huge asset during World War II, helping fight on the front lines with her new super strength.

She ended up sacrificing herself when she crashed her own plane into the woods because it was on autopilot, headed towards New York, and it was set to explode if it reached populated areas. At the last moment she jumped out, landing in the Arctic but gaining all her scars along the way.

Somehow, she was discovered by an expedition 70 years later in our modern times. Funny enough, the expedition was paid for by none other than Taissa Turner. The woman housed the soldier, and it was said that the two of them hit it off almost instantly.

They were deeply in love, almost set to be married, until one day Taissa broke it off. No one really knows what happened, but Van has been helping as a soldier in the U.S. army ever since.

Director’s Notes:

Advantages: She’s funny and can bring some light to the team during hard times. She’s incredibly loyal and resilient.

Disadvantages: She can be overly trusting and prone to following orders. Also there’s the problem with putting her and Taissa back together in the same space after their breakup.

Overall, she’s necessary to keep the team from killing each other with the more surly members. Though, her and Taissa are going to need to work together through their past.”

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“—and we’ll be heroes Shauna! Like imagine the newspapers and TV shows about us. And staying in Turner Towers is probably amazing, like I heard she built an elevator made out of only diamonds. She doesn’t really seem like the type…but sometimes the rumors are true!”

Jackie had been talking for 15 minutes straight now, and Shauna had given up on even trying to look interested.

Maybe if she even asked me if I’d like to join this stupid super team or whatever instead of just assuming I’d be on board like always.

“—uh, Shipman? Hello?” Oh, Jackie was raising an eyebrow at her.

Somewhere far away, Director Scott was organizing his files. One slipped out, and he looked down to pick up…

File Name: Shauna Shipman; Alias: The Hulk.

"She’s been best friends with Jackie Taylor since they were little, having grown up in the same town. They were pretty much inseparable, ask anyone who knew them and they’d tell you that the two girls were never seen without the other.

That was until Jackie was taken. Shauna ended up throwing herself into researching to find her friend. She ended up going to Brown, but most of her time was spent in the lab trying to come up with a way to find Jackie. She was pretty much a genius actually, most of her inventions were ahead of her time.

But unfortunately not everything went well. She accidentally exposed himself to massive gamma radiation during an experiment gone wrong. Now she transforms into a bigger, stronger, greener version of herself whenever she gets mad or stressed. Unfortunately, that happened a lot, especially with Jackie being gone during most of her early time in her new self.

She ran back to her hometown to hide and avoid hurting anyone, but thankfully Jackie came back. Jackie had an amazing effect on Shauna, and is mostly able to calm her down whenever she goes all Hulk.

She’s been living with Jackie, trying to lay low until now.

Director’s Notes:

Advantages: She’s strong, perceptive, protective of Jackie, and willing to get the job done at any cost.

Disadvantages: She keeps secrets, she’s prone to bottling up her emotions until she explodes (or smashes a tree), and she can be violent.

Overall, she is a powder keg waiting to explode, but we need her firepower. Hopefully Jackie will be able to keep her in check."

Back in New Jersey, Shauna cleared her throat, red rising to her cheeks. “Yeah, yeah sorry Jax. Turner Towers?”

Jackie looked a little amused but just continued her rant. “I mean yeah! And I’ve always wanted to see Manhattan. Like this town is nice and all but there’s like nothing to do. Don’t you ever feel a little bored? There’s like three restaurants total—”

And Shauna felt a familiar feeling creeping up. It started as a slight pounding in her head.

Bored? Is that what she feels when we live together? Bored of this small little town and sad boring Shauna Shipman?

The pounding got louder, a wave of irritation and anger sweeping through her head. It was like a flood, drowning out any other thoughts. Red hot emotion seemed to sweep through her body, flooding her veins. It washed over her like a scalding hot shower.

Perfect little Jackie wants to see the big city, I should’ve known this wasn’t enough—I’m not enough. I bet she jumped at the chance to—

Her muscles tensed. Her head pounded. Her skin burned.

And then she felt a soft hand cup her cheek.

“—ey, hey, Shauna? You ok?” Jackie’s soft voice broke through the storm. “You’re looking a little green there. Take a few deep breaths for me?”

Shauna forced herself to breathe, carefully pushing down the familiar anger that thrummed under her skin. Her body cooled and calmed down, just avoiding fully turning into…whatever she’s become.

She sighed, turning to press her head further into Jackie’s hand. The other girl just responded by smiling worriedly and patting Shauna’s cheek playfully.

“Tell me what’s wrong,” Jackie asked, warmth flooding her tone.

Shauna paused to let a breath out.

“Maybe I just don’t wanna move to fucking Manhattan,” Shauna snarked, but the bite in her voice was lost by the way she was still leaning into Jackie’s hand with her eyes closed.

Jackie just hummed, unconvinced.

“Sorry. I just, I’m scared Jax. I’ve been watching the news. This Wilderness thing seems like a big deal. And on top of that Manhattan has so many people, and so many buildings—I just…don’t want to hurt anyone.”

Jackie sighed and pulled Shauna into a hug, letting the girl rest against her shoulder. Then, Jackie started chuckling.

Shauna’s anger returned full force. “What about this is funny to you?” she demanded.

“No no, Shipman listen to me. Don’t go all green now,” Jackie said, using both hands to force Shauna to look into her eyes. All she saw in response was affection and warmth.

“I’m just so amazed how you see yourself as anything other than the gentle girl who used to cry when she stepped on a butterfly,” Jackie grinned. Shauna couldn’t help but let out a wet chuckle, which made Jackie smile brighter.

“I know you struggle, but I also know you would never intentionally hurt anyone. You are strong Shauna, this team needs you. The world needs you.” She paused. “I need you. We’ll be right together throughout this whole thing ok? Best friends, just like it’s always been. You have my back and I’ll have yours. Even if your back is giant and green and muscly this time.”

Shauna couldn’t help but laugh, tucking her face back into Jackie’s shoulder for a hug.

“Ok Jax. Let’s go save the world or whatever,” she smiled jokingly.

“Hell yeah Shipman!”

Chapter Text

Laura Lee smiled as she stepped up to the gates of a very familiar castle in Asgard. Her S.H.E.I.L.D. issued bag was against her side, and she didn’t even need to read the file inside to know all about…

File Name: Charlotte Mathews, princess of Asgard, daughter of Odin.

"Charlotte was raised in the palace in Asgard, groomed as a young girl to eventually lead the kingdom next. Of course, her parents were busy people, so she often was left alone to her own devices.

Not much is known about her—since she’s from a different realm and all—but her people say she is kind, quiet, and a generous leader. The weapon she carries, a hammer called Mjölnir, can help her fly and harness her power of lightning.

She isn’t seen much out of the palace though, and even as a child her parents have kept her away. Some say she has visions of the future, but apparently that’s weird even in Asgard standards.

Director’s Notes:

Advantages: She’s kind, sensitive, intuitive, supportive, and always willing to help others.

Disadvantages: Her “visions” have sometimes led to to isolate herself for days, and she might be unstable if she cannot keep her grip on reality.

Overall, her kindness will help mellow out some of the temper in the group, and the support of the others should be enough to keep her head."

Laura Lee was ushered inside the palace quickly and quietly. She was familiar with the place by now, having been the official S.H.E.I.L.D. representative to Asgard for a few years. Because of this, she had learned their little quirks, and what it meant when things went unsaid.

“Princess Charlotte is seeing guests in her room today,” a guard told her.

They’re not letting her out right now, Laura Lee translated. Outside, she just smiled politely and let the guard lead her through the palace halls, though she really didn’t need it.

She was met with confusion at the door.

Lottie looked beautiful as always, her pretty face furrowed in a confused expression as her hair sat free on her shoulders. Her eyes kept darting between the window she was leaned against, the guard, and now Laura Lee. The agent’s heart broke a little.

Laura Lee took a step forward with a soft smile. “Hi Lottie.”

“Laura Lee?” Lottie whispered, mostly to herself.

The blonde took careful steps forward to cross the room. She stopped before Lottie and held out her hand.

Lottie looked at it wearily, seemingly afraid of what she might discover. Finally, she slowly reached out. When her hand touched Laura Lee’s, Lottie seemed to light up. She pulled Laura Lee into her for a hug, making the both of them giggle happily.

“I’m so glad you’re here,” Lottie said simply.

“I’m so happy to be here,” Laura Lee answered honestly. She barely noticed the guard slipping out of the door and leaving the two of them alone. Lottie didn’t seem to notice, as she guided the both of them to her bed so they could sit comfortably.

Lottie leaned against her and shook her head slightly.

“It’s loud today,” Lottie said simply.

And Laura Lee’s heart broke. It hurt so deeply to see such a kind and beautiful soul so plagued by her own mind. Laura Lee prayed every day, but even her faith couldn’t keep every bad day from reaching Lottie.

So on those days, Laura Lee vowed to be there.

“It’s ok Lottie, I’m here, what do you need?” Laura Lee said, taking the princess’ hands in her own.

“You just being here is enough,” Lottie smiled.

Even on her worst days Lottie still makes her heart sing. They sat in silence for a bit longer, leaning against each other and just basking in each others’ warmth. Then, Lottie sighed a bit and tilted her head to lay on the blonde’s shoulder.

“You need me to come down to Earth?” Lottie said, already knowing the answer.

“How did you know?” Laura Lee asked.

Lottie smiled a bit. “They told me.”

Laura Lee knew she meant whatever she could see Lottie talking to sometimes whenever the blonde stays for a while.

The agent smiled softly. “I do. Thank you for listening, I know it’s hard for you but I’m glad you’re working on it. God works in mysterious ways and I’m happy you can be a messenger.”

“I don’t know how you can still believe in the Christian god when I’m literally right here,” Lottie joked playfully, gesturing around to Asgard right outside the window.

“I believe in you both,” Laura Lee giggled, warmth entering her tone.

They both sat and laughed for a bit, having had this conversation many times. After a minute, Lottie exhaled again. “I don’t know if I can do it Lee, I’m not strong like you,” Lottie sighed.

“Lottie!” Laura Lee said suddenly. She grabbed Lottie’s arms. “You are the strongest person I know! I see you fight every day to help the people around you, even in the little ways. You treat everyone with kindness, the staff here love you. You are so beautiful—inside and out. You can do this, I know you can.”

Lottie was silent, reverently staring into Laura Lee’s earnest eyes.

“You’ll be there with me?”

“They’d have to drag me away.”

Lottie broke out in a bright smile, wrapping the blonde agent in a large hug. Laura Lee could tell the other girl was holding back tears.

“I believe in you, Lottie.”

“I don’t know if I can believe in myself, Lee.”

“For now, I can believe enough for the both of us.”

———————————————————————————————————————

Ben sighed, it had been barely been ten minutes and he could tell this was going to be harder than expected. The newly assembled team was set to arrive at Turner Towers for their first meeting and so far it was not going well. They were awkward, tense, and some even mildly hostile. Charlotte hadn’t even showed up yet so Ben didn’t know if Laura Lee had been able to convince her.

Overall, he was worried to say the least. How were these girls Earth’s mightiest heroes?

He could tell Jackie was trying her best at least. She was flitting around, trying to talk to everyone and subtly start a group conversation. Despite her efforts, it just wasn’t working.

Shauna was standing there with her hands crossed, glaring any time Jackie would leave her side. Nat was fully standing in the corner, raising an eyebrow and smirking when Jackie came to try and talk to her. Van would make jokes, but her and Taissa fell into a tense quiet whenever they would accidentally make eye contact. And throughout it all Jackie skipped around each person like her feet were on fire.

Ben sighed. Earth was fucking doomed.

Just then, they heard a whoosh of air from the balcony. They all turned to see Charlotte Mathew’s touching down gently on the balcony, hammer in one hand and holding Laura Lee in the other. For a second, the girls gaped. She was a goddess—quite literally. With the wind sweeping through her hair, she was beautiful. Then she softly put Laura Lee down with a reverent gaze and the others melted. And she was a gentlewoman?

Ben exhaled in relief. Earth might be saved after all.

“Holy shit, she can fly?” Van exclaimed, jumping up a bit in excitement as the two newcomers flattened their clothes and walked inside.

Ben thought he caught Taissa’s small pout and whisper of “I can fly too…” but he valued his life, so he made a call to not point that out. He schooled his face and walked to welcome the two girls.

“Charlotte Mathews, princess of Asgard,” he introduced to the others.

“You can call me Lottie,” Lottie said with a shy smile. She then gestured to the girl next to her. “And this is Laura Lee.”

A goddess and her angel.

“Wow, ok!” Jackie said, shaking her self out of her shock and clapping to get everyone’s attention. “Now that everyone’s here we should do introductions!”

“I already know who all of you are and you obviously know who I am. I’ll show everyone their rooms,” Tai said simply, starting to walk to the elevator.

“Party pooper,” Van playfully stuck her tongue out. Taissa tensed up a bit, but she kept walking.

“Wait wait, Taissa!” Jackie pouted, trying to get her to stop walking away.

Shauna put a hand on her shoulder. “I think everyone’s a little tired right now, Jax. We were all traveling today, maybe introductions tomorrow?”

Jackie’s pout just got bigger, making Natalie chuckle from the corner.

They couldn’t just leave right now, how would that look for team cohesion? Jackie might not be great at many things, but she excelled in understanding social groups. They needed to start getting comfortable with each other, and soon. The threat could happen at any moment and if they were still this awkward and stilted, they were fucked.

Suddenly, she had an idea.

“How about a party tonight!?” Jackie exclaimed, snapping her fingers together and looking at everyone.

Everyone looked a bit hesitant. That was until Lottie spoke up softly.

“A party? I’ve never been to a party on Earth before. I wonder if they’re the same as Asgard,” Lottie smiled to herself.

“You hear that? Now we have to do a party!” Jackie excitedly said. “Tell them Shauna.”

Shauna just stood there. Jackie gave her a light hit on her arm and Shauna rolled her eyes. “Yeah, it’ll be fun or whatever.”

Nat chuckled. “That was convincing, Shipman,” she snarked. “But yeah I’m in. I never turn down free booze.”

“Who said it was free—oh whatever,” Tai threw her hands up. “Be in the main living room at 8:00pm, I’ll handle preparation.”

“Yes! Party!” Van yelled happily.

Tai still looked hesitantly between the group and the elevator, but after looking at Van jumping around for a bit, Tai seemed to relax. She turned and walked towards the elevator with a small smile. The others followed, now lightly chattering. It wasn’t perfect, but they were warming up.

Maybe they’d be ok after all.

———————————————————————————————————————

It was barely 7:00, and Nat was on Taissa Turner’s giant rooftop watching the sunset.

“Is that weed?” Nat turned to see Van approaching with a smile. “Tai would flip if she saw you smoking that near her precious plastic plants.”

“You gonna snitch?” Nat narrowed her eyes.

Van just laughed. “Nah dude, I was gonna ask if you’d share.”

Nat grinned and held the blunt out in lieu of answering verbally. Van grinned too and came to join the blonde at the railing. The redhead took a hit and handed the blunt back to Nat.

“Weren’t you in the army or something?” Nat raising an eyebrow. “Don’t they not allow this shit?”

“True…but I was also born in 1918, smoking was basically a rite of passage.”

Nat just hummed, handing the blunt back to the redhead.

“And the super serum means I can’t get high or drunk, peak physical performance and all.”

Nat snatched the blunt back. “What! Then why are you stealing my shit?”

Van pouted playfully. “Sometimes I just miss it.” Nat barked out a laugh, and Van grinned.

Nat liked her smile, it seemed so genuine.

Little did she know, Van thought the same about her.

“I’m not giving you any more,” Nat pointed accusingly, smile still on her face.

“I know, that’s not really why I’m out here.” At the confused glance she received, Van continued. “You remind me of home, I guess. I just wanted to talk to you.”

“The 1900’s? Wow, I don’t know if that’s a compliment…” Nat snarked.

Van laughed. “No no, my hometown. You remind me of the friends I had growing up. All cool and broody, but hiding that smile that showed up every now and then and knocked your socks off with its brightness.”

Nat blushed a bit. “I don’t know about that. I’m sure your friends were a lot cooler than me. I’m just trailer park trash, as they say.”

“Hey, some of us trailer park kids would take offense to that,” Van joked, putting a hand in her chest in mock offense.

“Oh? You too?”

Van just nodded.

“Damn.”

They sat for a bit longer in comfortable silence. Nat took another hit of her blunt and Van looked at the stars. At least those haven’t changed after all these years.

“Look at us, two trailer park kids turned government-issued superheroes,” Nat murmured.

“Who would’ve thought,” Van smiled.

“Look, you seem pretty fuckin’ cool too,” Nat forced out awkwardly, eyes still locked down towards the ground.

Van laughed a loud barking laugh and pulled the other girl into a side hug. “Aw you big softy! I knew it!”

“Oh ok, get off of me,” Nat said, barely struggling.

Van smiled and let her go after a minute. They sat for some time longer, alternating between soft silence and shared stories, reveling in the unspoken new friendship.

After a bit, Van looked down at her watch. “It’s almost 8:00, I’m going to freshen up before this party.”

“I’ll come in a bit,” Nat waved her off, turning back towards the stars

“You sure?” Van raised an eyebrow.

“I prefer to be fashionably late,” Nat smirked. Van just chuckled and started walking towards the elevator.

“Hey Van?” Nat said after a moment, making the redhead turn around.

Nat hesitated for a bit, before turning fully towards the other girl with vulnerable eyes. “I’ve been told I don’t trust easily.”

Van smiled brightly. “I’ve been told I trust tooeasily,” she replied. “We’re gonna be good friends.”

Nat just grumbled and turned back around to avoid Van seeing the emotion on her face. Van had understood exactly what Nat was looking for, even unsaid.

“See you at the party Van,” Nat said with a smile in her voice.

“See ya Nat,” Van said with a goofy grin and double thumbs up, making Nat chuckle as Van walked towards the elevators.

Chapter Text

The party was comfortably underway, and things were going pretty well.

It wasn’t the biggest party the Jackie had been too, but somehow the atmosphere was still comfortable. Around the Turner Tower living room she could see the other five heroes on her team. She also saw Laura Lee, who must’ve come with Lottie, and Misty, who must’ve just showed up.

Everyone seemed to be tentatively warming up, but Jackie was still a bit on edge. Thankfully Shauna was still by her side, so Jackie did what she always did when she was nervous and turned to her best friend.

Shauna was close enough that Jackie could feel her warmth, but she could also see how tense the brown eyed girl was. She stood there with an almost scowl, surveying the area like she was looking for potential threats.

Jackie internally rolled her eyes. She was going to help Shauna relax, then they could have some fun at this party.

“Could you get us some more drinks?” Jackie asked with hopeful eyes.

Part of her was hoping Shauna would nod and walk over, maybe finding a person to make conversation with on her journey. Jackie wanted her best friend to be happy with these people anyways.

But another part of her hoped Shauna would refuse, and her eyes would darken like they sometimes did when Jackie asked her to get something, and then she’d instead step closer to Jackie and link their arms together so Jackie could feel how warm her hold was—protective and strong.

God, things are so confusing with her best friend.

Eventually, Shauna sighed. “Sure, Jackie.”

Jackie smiled sweetly at Shauna’s back as her best friend stomped away. I wonder what’s up with her.

She took a quick look around the party, noticing the little groups that were forming. I can’t wait to talk to Shauna about this when she gets back.

“Was that Shipman stomping around?”

Jackie turned to see Nat raising at eyebrow at Shauna’s retreating back. Jackie chuckled and nodded.

Nat just smirked. “I guess she hasn’t changed since high school.”

“Yeah, I guess she’s still Shauna,” Jackie smiled fondly.

Nat watched with knowing eyes, but Jackie didn’t seem to notice her stare. “So you two are still just as close?”

Jackie gasped dramatically. “Of course! She’s my absolute best friend!” Jackie then paused for a second. “Don’t be offended Nat, we’re friends too.”

Nat grimaces. “Don’t worry, I don’t want any hand in whatever it is you two got going on.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

Nat just stared, then she started laughing loudly. “Never change, Taylor.”

“Nat! What did you mean!?”

Little did they know, someone was watching from the corner. Shauna stared as her spot by Jackie’s side was so easily replaced by Natalie. The same Natalie that was now laughing as Jackie seemed to be talking to her. The same Natalie that was a nobody in high school, turned into one of Jackie’s friends on a random day. It just didn’t make sense.

She replaced me so easily, Shauna seethed, nearly crushing the two solo cups in her hands. Sent me away so she could buddy up with Nat.

Her attention went back to the two when she heard Jackie’s laugh. That pretty laugh that made Shauna smile even when she was feeling angry, like she basically always does now. The only times she isn’t angry is when Jackie was with her, giving her those soothing smiles that made Shauna’s hot anger settle into a loving warmth.

But now she’s giving those smiles to Nat.

Fuck you, Jackie. Shauna quickly downed both drinks and threw the empty cups on the nearest table before walking away. She could feel the expensive-ass alcohol burning through her veins, just like a certain other feeling when she “started to get green” as Jackie would say with her little smirk.

Fuck, I can’t even walk away without thinking of her, Shauna scowled. You’re fucking pathetic, Shipman.

She made her way back over to where all the alcohol was sitting on the table. She was angry and sad and something that she couldn’t name. As she was pouring another drink, she noticed Taissa walking up, probably for the same things Shauna was holding.

Her temples throbbed, and all her emotions came spilling out.

“Do you still feel bad about it?” Shauna spat out, turning to Tai with fire in her eyes.

“What?” Tai said, clear confusion in her eyes but defenses up nonetheless.

Shauna leaned forward. “You’re the one that built that A.L.L.I.E. bot a few months ago that went rogue. It was all in the news.”

“Ok whatever, great talk,” Tai snarled, moving to walk away.

Shauna scoffed. “It crashed into a building Tai. You could’ve killed people.”

“Did you forget I was the one to show up on scene and evacuate people? I flew people out of the building. I paid for the entire repair!” Tai snapped back.

They were starting to get the attention of some of the others now. Van and Lottie were starting to inch closer, knowing they may need to diffuse the situation soon. Tai and Shauna’s yelling was starting to go into dangerous levels.

“Typical rich people, throwing money at all your problems.”

“What the fuck is your problem?” Tai said, incredulous. She then smirked dangerously. “Watch out. You’re looking a little green.”

“Say that again bitch?” Shauna lunged for Tai, skin tinting green but Van and Lottie had already rushed over. Van held Shauna back while Lottie put a comforting hand on Tai’s shoulder to stop her from escalating. Misty and Laura Lee had shown up now too, watching from the corner in case they needed to intervene.

Shauna growled, her voice coming out deeper as she barely fought the transformation. “Van fighting your battles for you Taissa?”

Tai flinched but put on a cocky face. “Oh fuck off Shauna, you’re off your leash without your keeper,” she said, referring to Jackie.

Shauna yelled in anger, fire sweeping through her veins. Her muscles bulged as her skin turned a vibrant green. Lottie rushed over to help Van hold the giant back. Between both of their super strengths they were barely able to keep her from rushing into Tai or breaking something.

Van let out a disappointed “Tai…” which made the billionaire deflate.

“She started it,” Tai murmured sadly, but she just took a few steps back, fire gone from her eyes.

Shauna roared again and finally Nat and Jackie rushed over.

“What the fuck?” Nat shouted, looking at the scene in front of her.

“Shauna…” Jackie said, running over to where the two heroes were barely keeping her still.

“Hey take a few breaths for me, yeah? I’m right here Shipman,” Jackie said, unflinching while she walked right up to Shauna’s giant body.

Everyone held their breath, watching as the small body of Jackie Taylor reached a hand to caress the side of Shauna’s green, snarling face.

To everyone’s surprise and fascination, the beast listened. The green slowly faded away as Shauna shrunk again, turning back into her normal body. Her clothes were a bit tattered, and her face was still locked in a snarl, but at least she was back human again. She roughly shook Van and Lottie off and stomped past all of them, including Jackie.

“Don’t walk away Shipman, I’m not done with you yet,” Jackie said to her best friend’s back, the earlier warmth replaced with a disappointed tone.

Shauna just stood there grumpily with a pout, like an annoyed but defiant child.

“What the hell is up with those two?” everyone wondered, still reeling from the emotional roller coaster they just witnessed.

“Everyone come circle up,” Jackie said, addressing the group.

No one moved.

“Circle the fuck up!”

People grumbled but reluctantly circled up. Except for Misty—she skipped into that circle.

Jackie took in the sight of everyone standing there. Half of them were scowling, the other half were fidgeting awkwardly. She sighed, the party was going well at first, but this fight might’ve reversed all their progress.

She had to do something.

“Here’s what were gonna do,” Jackie said, clapping her hands together. “Everyone find a partner because we’re doing, drumroll please…an arm wrestling competition!”

Silence.

Someone started snickering, Jackie looked at Nat barely holding back tears of laughter.

“Oh come on guys!” Jackie pleaded.

Tai groaned and rolled her eyes. “This isn’t summer camp, Captain,” Tai said in a way that definitely meant she was doubting Jackie.

“It’s for team bonding!”

“No offense, you seem like a cool person Jackie, but how the hell is this supposed to help our team bond?” Van asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Well you guys didn’t let me finish,” Jackie pouted. “The winner of each arm wrestle gets to advance to the next round, but they also have to give a compliment to the loser.”

“The winner? Isn’t that more a punishment?” Nat snarked.

“No, silly Nat,” Jackie teased, ignoring Nat’s affronted expression. “This way both people end up gaining something. The winner gets bragging rights, and the loser gets a compliment. It’s a win-win!”

And this keeps anyone from getting too cocky. I know none of their egos will let them lose on purpose, but things can’t get too competitive or it’ll ruin the whole purpose. The way both people walk away happy.

Some people groaned and Jackie heard muffled complaints. She was about to plead again when someone walked forward.

Laura Lee walked over to the nearest table with a smile, naturally leading everyone to follow and circle around. She held her hand out gently. “Lottie? Will you join me?” And Lottie was pulled forward like a moth to a flame.

Everyone held their breath as the two put their arms in position, locking eyes for a second before—

Lottie won instantly.

Laura Lee laughed a loud, warm laugh as Lottie rubbed the back of her neck sheepishly.

“Well, that was no surprise,” Laura Lee smiled. “You’re so strong, Lottie. Inside and out.”

Lottie blushed. “I thought I was supposed to be giving the compliments, Lee.” Laura Lee giggled and gestured at her to go ahead.

“You’re my light, Laura Lee. Whenever I doubt myself, you are there to guide me.”

Everyone stared a bit at Lottie’s compliment, Laura Lee going a bit red. Lottie had said her words with such conviction, a warmth shining in her eyes. There was no doubt she meant exactly what she had just said.

“Ok enough flirting,” Tai butted in, moving to shoo the two away.

“Flirting?” Laura Lee asked, confused.

Lottie blushed the deepest shade of red any of them had ever seen. “Oh, we’re not…”

Tai just stared in shock.

“Oh! You two must be best friends!” Jackie jumped in, smiling like she figured it out. She looped an arm around Shauna, who was frowning but still leaned into the hold.

Laura Lee and Lottie started nodding quickly.

Van sent them a bewildered look. “Did best friends change meanings since my time or…”

“No, why?” Jackie asked with a confused look.

Tai looked between all of them in pure horror. “This team is full of oblivious idiots.”

“Preaching to the choir,” Nat smirked, holding up her drink in a toast.

Nat had noticed at the way Van was watching Taissa, a faint longing in her eyes. The blonde also caught the looks Tai would shoot Van when the redhead wasn’t looking, full of desperation.

Yeah. A team of oblivious idiots.

“Ok whatever, someone just come and get this over with,” Tai rolled her eyes, putting her arm in wrestling position. Misty bounded over happily, putting her arm up to only get crushed a second later.

“My compliment?” Misty asked innocently.

“You little—” Tai started, but at Jackie’s look she stopped herself. “Misty, you seem like a…cool person and I like…how dedicated you are to the mission.”

It wasn’t much, but Misty beamed and locked Tai in a hug before she could escape. Tai fought her off but Misty was surprisingly strong, making everyone laugh at the complaints Tai shot out.

Van and Nat went next, which led to a victorious Van and a pouting Natalie.

“Oh chin up Scattorcio. Don’t worry, I still think your haircut is cool.,” Van beamed.

Nat stared at her shit eating grin and waited for more. “Wait, that’s it? That doesn’t count!”

Jackie just shrugged. Nat’s groans could barely be heard over Van’s booming laughter.

Lastly, Jackie walked up and waited for Shauna to join her. Shauna reluctantly went over and locked their hands together. Jackie looked her best friend in the eyes, uncertainty swimming through them.

“Hey, are we cool?” Jackie asked.

Shauna didn’t answer, instead opting to quickly beat Jackie in an arm wrestle. Shauna looked up at Jackie, now sporting a smirk when she replied. “Yeah, we might be cool now.”

Jackie looked in shock. “Ok Shipman,” she laughed. “Hey, I’ll start us off. Shauna Shipman, you know you’re the best friend I’ve ever had, right?”

Shauna felt a faint blush rising to her cheeks. “Jackie, it was literally in your rules for me to be the one to give a compliment.”

Jackie just shrugged and chuckled.

“You’re my best friend too, Jax” Shauna mumbled. Jackie cooed and jumped over to give her a huge hug, which Shauna smiled at. She laughed a bit in embarrassment as she noticed the others looking at them.

“Ok! Who’s up for round two!” Jackie addressed everyone.

She was smiling brightly now that she could tell her plan was starting to work. Everyone was back to smiling, a few even joking around with each other in playful competitiveness.