Back to GatefoldIssue #64 by Steve Crosby
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"A Bold New Initiative"
The taxi had barely stopped moving when the rear passenger side door opened. No sooner had Stu Conrad stepped onto the pavement than the door slammed shut and the vehicle sped off. The middle-aged black man sighed, straightened his tie and suit jacket, and walked through the front gate of Avengers Mansion. As he approached the front door, an alarm sounded.
“Unauthorized approach. Please halt and identify yourself.”
“Stu Conrad, US liaison to the Avengers,” Stu said in a crisp, authoritative voice. “Access code nine nine dash five one one foxtrot eight.” As he was reciting the code, Stu pulled out his government ID badge.
Mansion security processed the code, scanned the badge with a harmless laser, and backed down. “Access recognized. Welcome to Avengers Mansion.”
“It certainly doesn’t feel that way.” Having climbed the steps, Stu found that the door had already been opened by the butler, Edwin Jarvis, who was waiting just inside. “Mister Jarvis, it’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Stu Conrad, new government liaison to the Avengers.”
“No need to be so formal, sir. Jarvis is fine.” He gestures into the mansion’s foyer, where two of the team’s members were waiting. Walter Newell was out of his Stingray armor, while Warbird was in full uniform.
Walter greeted Stu with a handshake. “Nice to finally meet you. When we received word of She-Hulk’s replacement, there were some reservations. But Tony Stark had nothing but good things to say about you.”
“I’m sorry I wasn’t able to convince him to serve as Secretary of Defense,” Stu said. “Still, I’m glad he remembers that time as fondly as I do.” His gaze moved from Stingray to Warbird. “Is it only the two of you? I would have preferred this first meeting to be with a quorum.”
“Captain America’s out tying up a loose end from our last case,” said Warbird. “But the others are downstairs. After we hear what you have to say, Mr. Conrad, there’s other business to attend to.”
# # # # # # # # # #
“Your balance is extraordinary.” Captain America offered a hand, but Michael Ian Van Patrick launched himself from the rickety old fence and landed with ease. “I don’t think I was able to do half so well when I was your age.”
“Was that when you were treated with my great-grandfather’s serum?” Michael asked.
Captain America gave a wry smile. “No, that was a couple years later. Maybe a quarter as well then, if I was lucky.”
Michael picked up a water bottle filled with a vegetable juice concoction and took a drink. “Ever since I was little, my parents have turned down every sports program in the state. Even though they’ve always been upfront about why, I never really understood it.”
“Because of who your great-grandfather was, everybody would assume you’d taken the Super-Soldier Serum,” Captain America said. “No amount of negative tests would convince them otherwise. Though you would know the truth, to the public there would also be an asterisk next to your name.”
“Would it really be so hard to believe that this,” Michael gestured at his finely toned body, marginally concealed under a T-shirt and shorts, “was the result of specialized diet and exercise practiced since birth? I’m sure that similar regimens are in place for many Olympic athletes.”
“That may be, though none of them have your background.” Captain America took a drink of a second bottle, filled with the same concoction. He swallowed with a grimace. “Worse, criminals would believe it took. You and your family would be in danger over a secret you don’t even have. Although it’s impressive you’ve been able to stay off my radar for so long.”
“I’m just sorry it took my best friend trying to kill you for us to meet.” Michael forced a smile. “Fortunately you were able to free him from that mental control.”
Captain America nodded. “Iron Man said it wasn’t technological, but luckily one of our newer Avengers has knowledge of magic. She identified the enchantment that Speedball had neutralized, and made sure it was gone completely. We hope to treat those other young men and women the same, as soon as we can find them.”
“What happens then?” Michael asked. “Emery’s terrified that you’re going to recruit him as a junior Avenger and make him fight Galactus or something.”
Captain America couldn’t help but laugh. “The Avengers are willing to help anyone with ability that wants to be a hero, but that’s not the sort of thing one should be pressed in to. Emery is free to live his own life. And for that matter so are you.”
Michael Ian Van Patrick shook his head. “Hey, I’m going to have trouble with college as it is. A sports scholarship would have come in real handy.”
# # # # # # # # # #
Chris Powell was starting to wonder why he’d returned to the East Coast. Leaving California and the Avengers West Coast had been the right decision, he didn’t doubt. But Chris had defeated the purpose entirely when he’d returned to New York City, which had even more super-criminals. Villains like the Constrictor, who Darkhawk was fighting at that moment.
“Just so you know, electricity won’t have much of an effect on me,” Darkhawk said as he dodged Constrictor’s electrified coils. “Normally I wouldn’t mention it, but that must use up a lot of fuel.”
“I recharge my batteries with clean energy,” said Constrictor. “I may rob banks, but I still care about this planet.”
After an initial scuffle inside the bank itself, the armored hero and well-armed villain had taken the fight outside. Darkhawk leaped high into the air and fired a blast of Darkforce from his chest amulet. It struck Constrictor in the chest, but his bulletproof uniform took the brunt of the damage.
Darkhawk quickly realized his mistake in taking to the air though. While able to glide, he wasn’t nearly as maneuverable as when on the ground. Constrictor’s coils, made of adamantium and exerting 115 lbs. per square inch of force, wrapped around the hero’s torso. Desperately, Darkhawk fired his grappling claw, and when it caught on a ledge high above tried to pull himself free. It was a game of tug-of-war that Darkhawk was seriously unsuited for.
“You know that old myth how a cable can slice somebody in half?” asked Constrictor with a devious smile. “I’m of a mind to test it, right now!”
“I think I’ll decline!” Darkhawk fired another blast of Darkforce. This time Constrictor was struck in the face and, while the head was every bit as protected as the chest, he was temporarily blinded and disoriented. Darkhawk released the grapple and allowed himself to be pulled down. When Constrictor unwittingly pulled him close enough, Darkhawk punched the man in the face. “That’s for getting me over here!”
“Aarrgh!” Constrictor hurled Darkhawk away, releasing him from the adamantium coils. Darkhawk slammed into a parked, unoccupied car. Struggling to free himself from the twisted frame, Darkhawk caught the strong odor of gasoline. The fuel tank was leaking, and an electrified coil was swinging down.
“Looks like you were right about fuel!” said Constrictor, laughing. The laughter stopped though, as soon as the coil began falling up. Not feeling anything under his feet, Constrictor looked down and saw that he was rising up in the air. “Wha-“
“This is what happens when you negate gravity!”
The new speaker was a young man floating in the sky over Constrictor and Darkhawk. His bodysuit was white and blue, with goggles, kneepads, padded gloves and sneakers. On his chest was a symbol that Darkhawk had to look at twice. At first he thought it was a yellow X, but then he realized it was four blue arrows aimed at a central point in a yellow circle.
“Who the hell are you, runt?” Constrictor yelled.
In the response, the young man motioned an arm down. Constrictor, coils and all, slammed against the pavement. “And that is what happens when you tack on a few extra G’s. In case the powers didn’t clue you in, I call myself Gravity!”
By this time Darkhawk had returned to his feet. “Thanks for the help.”
“Looks like you needed it,” said Gravity. “Gotta fly. Try not to screw up my hard work before the authorities take him away.”
With that, Gravity flew off, leaving an offended Darkhawk behind. Freed, Constrictor began to move, but Darkhawk placed a foot over his throat. “That kid left me in a bad mood, so please try something. Where does he get off, treating a former Avenger like a rookie?”
Constrictor chuckled. “I know. Kids these days. No respect.”
# # # # # # # # # #
“Let me be blunt. After recent events, confidence in the government is at an all-time low.” Stu Conrad was standing with the Avengers in their informal conference room on the mansion’s ground floor. Seated at the long table before him were an armorless Stingray, a depowered Binary and Warbird, Karnak, Quicksilver and Espirita in their uniforms. Stu didn’t like meeting without the Chairperson present, but Warbird had assured him Captain America wouldn’t mind. “What else could you call it after the President of the United States locks up most of Congress?”
“A long-needed assertion of authority,” Karnak offered.
“He did release them,” Warbird said. “As soon as a new Congress was formed after special elections, they voted down the law granting him that authority and he complied. The President was just making a point.”
“And for the most part people were calm about it,” said Stu. “But only because Captain America was there at every step, from the arrests to the announcement through the elections and the release. Captain America, and by extension the Avengers, are more trusted than the government.”
“Is that supposed to be a problem?” asked Binary.
“Red Skull tried to capitalize on it,” said Quicksilver. “He’d planned to kill and replace us with fresh new ‘heroes’ that he would use to secretly run the country.”
“But that failed because the Avengers are just that good,” said Stu. “The people’s faith in you isn’t blind and unfounded. Whatever the crisis, you always come out ahead. The government needs to be seen working more closely with you, not separate from you.”
“I’m not sure I like this talk about faith and separation,” said Espirita. “For all the good we do, the Avengers still require oversight. We have locked below a member that betrayed us. And recently there were several incidents on the West Coast. If the Avengers are given too much rope and something does go wrong, more than a few may hang.”
“I don’t think our liaison is talking about full autonomy,” said Stingray. “Publically it may appear that way, the government granted us blanket authority. But behind the scenes we’ll still be watched closely.”
“Not so closely as you would think. The government feels that the Avengers have earned their trust. Particularly in regards to the Hulk.” Stu’s eyes went to the only other man standing, Doctor Robert Bruce Banner. “What happened before was the Avengers placing their trust in the government, and when that went south the Avengers dealt with it. And how are you feeling now, Doctor Banner?”
Bruce Banner suppressed a shudder. “Iron Man says all that hardware is out of my system. I don’t feel my…his voice in my head anymore.” He’d been about to say my future self.
“Problems caused by rogue elements in our government, and solved by the Avengers,” said Stu. “For that reason, we’d like for you to stay at the mansion, under Avengers supervision.”
“Just a moment ago you said we weren’t going to be strong armed.” Warbird stood up out of her chair. “Now you’re forcing members on us.”
“We’re not telling you to make Hulk a member,” Stu said quickly. “We’re merely asking that you supervise Doctor Banner in any capacity that you see fit. If you feel that he’s not a danger to himself and to others, he can walk out right now.”
“I think I’m best suited to make that determination,” Banner said. “I’d like to stay.”
“And we’re glad to have you,” said Warbird, her eyes still on their new liaison. “Any other demands? Maybe you’d like us to execute Vision without a trial?”
“If you wanted to do that, we’d say no,” said Stu. “At least not without a hearing to determine whether he should be afforded rights as a person. Until then we are comfortable leaving him in your care. Now I’ll get to what we’re not comfortable with.”
Karnak chose this moment to speak, pointing his thumb at Quicksilver. “He’s referring to the two of us, foreign nationals with direct blood ties to known terrorists.”
“I wouldn’t exactly classify them as terrorists.” Nevertheless, Stu nodded. “But yes, Magneto is the leader of a rogue nation whose son is one of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. So far we’ve managed to keep things with Genosha from escalating, but if they do, Quicksilver, what side will you be on?”
“In the past I’ve been either way,” said Quicksilver. With a sigh, he stood up. “I don’t like having my loyalty questioned, but you do have a point. If we are in a conflict, and I see that Wanda has sided with our father…the chance is there.”
Warbird spoke up. “Pietro, nobody is-”
“No, but my sister has been missing for some time. A leave of absence, while I go look for her.”
“If you ever need help,” said Espirita, “you need only ask.”
“Spare me your arguments,” Karnak said before Stu could speak. “I know them all, and probably many you haven’t thought of. And you would be right, I do value my family above everything else. At first it led to some tension here.” Karnak looked at Quicksilver. “Fortunately, we managed to move past it. Nevertheless, my place is back in Attilan.”
“Well, I’m sorry to see the two of you go,” said Warbird. “Just when we’ve managed to get this team working, something had to change.”
Binary smiled. “Oh, but new members are always so much fun.”
# # # # # # # # # #
“You’re assigning me to the Avengers?” Robbie Baldwin asked, incredulous. “Can you just do that?”
“I’m the head of Damage Control. I can do anything I want.” Robin Chapel leaned forward over her desk, which Baldwin was standing across from. They were inside her cramped office, on a middle floor of the Flatiron building where Damage Control was based. “The Avengers cause a lot of damage, which we have to clean up. It only makes sense that we have somebody assess them full time.”
“Yeah, I get that. But…me?” Baldwin looked down at himself, a lanky young man in a suit one-size too big and in need of a haircut. “There has to be someone more qualified. Bart collected a bill from Doctor Doom!”
“I can’t live without my assistant,” Robin said. “This is an important assignment, Robert. Is there some reason you’re so against this?”
Yeah, the fact that I’m a super-hero, thought the alter-ego of Speedball. If he was following around the Avengers before and during conflicts, he would feel obligated to suit up and join in. Helping to cause damage that he was supposed to be assessing would be a major conflict of interest.
“I’ve gotten used to jumping into things after the fight,” Baldwin said. “The places the Avengers go…I’m not current on my Shi’ar bird-flu immunizations.”
Robin wasn’t amused. “It’s done. The paperwork’s been filed. They’re expecting you, to help in whatever capacity they need. Now bounce over there and get to work.”
Bounce? “Uh, Ms. Chapel, what are you…?”
“Whatever problems arise I’m sure you’ll do the right thing.” Robin raised a knowing eyebrow. “Now go. I have to coordinate with Lenny about the reconstruction in Mutant Town.”
# # # # # # # # # #
Following the riot of the Mutant Town Festival, relief aid was delayed pending a review by local, state and federal governments. Public safety was given as a justification, and in the meantime unfavorable mutants lacked medical care and safe housing. The situation was abhorrent to Espirita, and using newfound Avengers authority she rushed in with what aid she could. Fortunately some teammates were also willing to lend a hand.
Espirita was handing out water bottles when Photon appeared in a flash of light. “I’ve fused together all the cracks I could find, but these makeshift repairs are temporary at best. I also identified the buildings that are unsafe no matter what I do. Warning signs are being posted.”
“It should serve until crews arrive tomorrow.” Espirita looked across the damaged street to a recently collapsed building. “The important thing is that won’t happen again with people inside.”
A cheer was raised among the hungry crowd. Espirita and Photon saw a truck drive in with food, Dazzler jumping from the back. The mutant singer’s outfit was a far cry from her old jumpsuits and leotards, a hipster style that combined modern with vintage accessories like her jacket and high boots.
“In one day you’ve done more than I’ve been able to,” Dazzler told the Avengers. “I don’t think the proceeds from my charity CD covered band-aids.”
“I am happy to help in any way I can,” said Espirita.
“Me too,” said Photon. “This is too much like what happened in New Orleans. A whole people forgotten. And don’t downplay your own contributions. People here seem to appreciate it.”
“I certainly never thought my experiences in Mojoworld would be useful in the middle of New York City.” Dazzler opened a box of nutrient bars and began passing them out. “If things are so bad here, I can only imagine how it is in other countries.”
“Sometimes my heart cannot help but break,” said Espirita. “I can take you to see some of those places, if you like.”
Dazzler shrugged. “Maybe. I prefer getting one’s own house in order first, though. And I’m sure you’re busy, what with all your Avengers duties on top of it.”
But Espirita shook her head. “Not only have I still managed all I’ve done before, the Avengers’ resources have enabled me in so many ways.”
“Even when I was a full-time member, I found time to visit Paris every other week,” said Photon.
“Well, you can fly at the speed of light,” laughed Dazzler. “When I saw you join the team, I was glad to have turned down membership. Not only would it have been one light-powered lady too many, you offer so much more than I could have. And with everything you’ve done lately as a reservist, just imagine if you were full-time again.”
“Dazzler isn’t wrong about that,” Espirita said to Photon. “And we do have a couple openings. Either or both of you would be more than welcome.”
“Really? After my whole spiel about redundancy?”
“Stop selling yourself short, Dazzler. Your experience and skill more than makes you a match for me.”
Dazzler laughed again. “Tell me, how long did it take you to inspect and patch every building in this area?”
After a quick mental calculation, Photon said, “About twenty minutes.”
“Exactly.” Dazzler shook her head. “I’m all for doing a job that needs doing, but when somebody better comes along I’ll step back and let them do it. Besides, I prefer my life simple. I’m a full-time performer who occasionally gets caught up in outlandish adventures. Besides,” she added with a grin, “joining a team means sharing the spotlight. I’m not about to do that, and certainly not with the likes of Captain America!”
“Well,” Photon said to Espirita, “I’ll at least think on the offer.”
# # # # # # # # # #
A burst of energy exploded off Captain America’s shield. As with all previous attacks, he’d managed to block it just in time. High-velocity bullets were a simple matter, but even Captain America’s reflexes were taxed by attacks made at the speed of light. It certainly didn’t allow for him to dodge those attacks, or even to outrun his attacker. As fast as Captain America could run, Warbird could fly faster.
“Admit it, Cap,” Warbird said as she circled over the leaping Captain America. “As great as you may be on land, air-superiority trumps that every time.”
“Only when it’s superior!” Twisting through the air, Captain America threw his shield. It missed Warbird, and her energy burst struck Captain America at his hip. He went down, but Captain America’s shield went off a wall and flew at Warbird’s new position.
“Which you certainly are,” Captain America said when he saw Warbird effortlessly grab the shield before it could strike her. Warbird landed, and when she extended her hand Captain America accepted the help up. “You never cease to impress me with our skills, Carol.”
“You know it’s all in the training,” Carol said. “Air Force, CIA, even some alien Kree. It doesn’t compare to the experience earned by fighting in the worst of World War II.” She handed Captain America back his shield. “Training has safeguards. When it matters, you’re the one that finds a way. How’d it go out west?”
Captain America strapped the shield onto his back and led Warbird out of the training room. “Michael’s a good kid, and his friend Emery should be fine. My concern is the ones that got away. Were they all brainwashed? Willing? A mixture of both? Speedball gave us some background to work with, but we should find out all we can, and certainly we have to find them. The one who shot Jennifer especially.”
“Speaking of which, have you met with our new liaison?”
“No. In fact, I’m avoiding it until I’ve discussed this with you. What do you think of this new authority the government is granting us?”
Warbird took a breath. “I think it doesn’t make any sense. Our liaison can say anything he wants, but the government is so big there will always be elements to butt heads against. And when that happens, I’d rather it was one of our people dealing with them rather than another government employee.”
“It makes me uneasy too. In one sentence we’re told that we operate with real freedom, and in the next conditions are placed.” Captain America flashed his identicard past a sensor by the elevator doors. They opened, and he walked inside “I’m glad Karnak and Quicksilver didn’t force the issue, but what if they had? Once again the Avengers have been embroiled into politics and I don’t like it.”
Warbird followed him into the elevator. “Well, what can we do? Saying no isn’t really an option.”
“I’m going to step down. Leave the team.”
Warbird thought she must have misheard him. “Uh, come again?”
Crossing his arms, Captain America gave a serious expression. “More so than Karnak and Quicksilver, I’m the most politicized member of this team. Every move I make reflects on us, and now by extension the government.”
It was so ludicrous Warbird wanted to laugh. “Well, Steve, you’ll always reflect on the government. You’re Captain friggin’ America. Unless you’re planning to…?”
“No, I’m not giving up the shield.” Captain America didn’t think it would come to that. Not yet. “And I’ll always be there for the Avengers if needed, but for now I can’t be the team’s public face. This way, if I ever do something that the government won’t have a choice but to disavow, the Avengers won’t suffer.”
“And because the government made this decision mainly because of your reputation, if they have to go back on it the administration won’t be too damaged politically.” Seeing his point, Warbird nodded. “You’re trying to protect everyone here Steve. Okay, I get it, but who do you think should run this team in the meantime?”
“By figuring me out, Carol, you answered your own question. You’re a soldier able to follow orders but always to question them when needed. The team trusts and respects you enough to follow orders without asking questions. And most importantly, you know what it is to never give up in the face of great failure.”
“How can I possibly turn down such flattery?” Coming from Captain America, Warbird really did consider it high praise. Especially when Warbird considered where she’d been only a short time ago. “I suppose my first official function will be to inform our liaison?”
“Yes, but don’t worry. I’ll be at the press conference. It’ll give me great pleasure to announce you into the arena.”
“Lord knows I’ve come short many times, but yes, I actually do strive to do the deeds.”
The elevator doors opened, and Captain America nodded Warbird forward.
“Well, go on. The team should be told first.”
Next Issue: The Avengers help an old ally against a villain with all the answers.
“Unauthorized approach. Please halt and identify yourself.”
“Stu Conrad, US liaison to the Avengers,” Stu said in a crisp, authoritative voice. “Access code nine nine dash five one one foxtrot eight.” As he was reciting the code, Stu pulled out his government ID badge.
Mansion security processed the code, scanned the badge with a harmless laser, and backed down. “Access recognized. Welcome to Avengers Mansion.”
“It certainly doesn’t feel that way.” Having climbed the steps, Stu found that the door had already been opened by the butler, Edwin Jarvis, who was waiting just inside. “Mister Jarvis, it’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Stu Conrad, new government liaison to the Avengers.”
“No need to be so formal, sir. Jarvis is fine.” He gestures into the mansion’s foyer, where two of the team’s members were waiting. Walter Newell was out of his Stingray armor, while Warbird was in full uniform.
Walter greeted Stu with a handshake. “Nice to finally meet you. When we received word of She-Hulk’s replacement, there were some reservations. But Tony Stark had nothing but good things to say about you.”
“I’m sorry I wasn’t able to convince him to serve as Secretary of Defense,” Stu said. “Still, I’m glad he remembers that time as fondly as I do.” His gaze moved from Stingray to Warbird. “Is it only the two of you? I would have preferred this first meeting to be with a quorum.”
“Captain America’s out tying up a loose end from our last case,” said Warbird. “But the others are downstairs. After we hear what you have to say, Mr. Conrad, there’s other business to attend to.”
# # # # # # # # # #
“Your balance is extraordinary.” Captain America offered a hand, but Michael Ian Van Patrick launched himself from the rickety old fence and landed with ease. “I don’t think I was able to do half so well when I was your age.”
“Was that when you were treated with my great-grandfather’s serum?” Michael asked.
Captain America gave a wry smile. “No, that was a couple years later. Maybe a quarter as well then, if I was lucky.”
Michael picked up a water bottle filled with a vegetable juice concoction and took a drink. “Ever since I was little, my parents have turned down every sports program in the state. Even though they’ve always been upfront about why, I never really understood it.”
“Because of who your great-grandfather was, everybody would assume you’d taken the Super-Soldier Serum,” Captain America said. “No amount of negative tests would convince them otherwise. Though you would know the truth, to the public there would also be an asterisk next to your name.”
“Would it really be so hard to believe that this,” Michael gestured at his finely toned body, marginally concealed under a T-shirt and shorts, “was the result of specialized diet and exercise practiced since birth? I’m sure that similar regimens are in place for many Olympic athletes.”
“That may be, though none of them have your background.” Captain America took a drink of a second bottle, filled with the same concoction. He swallowed with a grimace. “Worse, criminals would believe it took. You and your family would be in danger over a secret you don’t even have. Although it’s impressive you’ve been able to stay off my radar for so long.”
“I’m just sorry it took my best friend trying to kill you for us to meet.” Michael forced a smile. “Fortunately you were able to free him from that mental control.”
Captain America nodded. “Iron Man said it wasn’t technological, but luckily one of our newer Avengers has knowledge of magic. She identified the enchantment that Speedball had neutralized, and made sure it was gone completely. We hope to treat those other young men and women the same, as soon as we can find them.”
“What happens then?” Michael asked. “Emery’s terrified that you’re going to recruit him as a junior Avenger and make him fight Galactus or something.”
Captain America couldn’t help but laugh. “The Avengers are willing to help anyone with ability that wants to be a hero, but that’s not the sort of thing one should be pressed in to. Emery is free to live his own life. And for that matter so are you.”
Michael Ian Van Patrick shook his head. “Hey, I’m going to have trouble with college as it is. A sports scholarship would have come in real handy.”
# # # # # # # # # #
Chris Powell was starting to wonder why he’d returned to the East Coast. Leaving California and the Avengers West Coast had been the right decision, he didn’t doubt. But Chris had defeated the purpose entirely when he’d returned to New York City, which had even more super-criminals. Villains like the Constrictor, who Darkhawk was fighting at that moment.
“Just so you know, electricity won’t have much of an effect on me,” Darkhawk said as he dodged Constrictor’s electrified coils. “Normally I wouldn’t mention it, but that must use up a lot of fuel.”
“I recharge my batteries with clean energy,” said Constrictor. “I may rob banks, but I still care about this planet.”
After an initial scuffle inside the bank itself, the armored hero and well-armed villain had taken the fight outside. Darkhawk leaped high into the air and fired a blast of Darkforce from his chest amulet. It struck Constrictor in the chest, but his bulletproof uniform took the brunt of the damage.
Darkhawk quickly realized his mistake in taking to the air though. While able to glide, he wasn’t nearly as maneuverable as when on the ground. Constrictor’s coils, made of adamantium and exerting 115 lbs. per square inch of force, wrapped around the hero’s torso. Desperately, Darkhawk fired his grappling claw, and when it caught on a ledge high above tried to pull himself free. It was a game of tug-of-war that Darkhawk was seriously unsuited for.
“You know that old myth how a cable can slice somebody in half?” asked Constrictor with a devious smile. “I’m of a mind to test it, right now!”
“I think I’ll decline!” Darkhawk fired another blast of Darkforce. This time Constrictor was struck in the face and, while the head was every bit as protected as the chest, he was temporarily blinded and disoriented. Darkhawk released the grapple and allowed himself to be pulled down. When Constrictor unwittingly pulled him close enough, Darkhawk punched the man in the face. “That’s for getting me over here!”
“Aarrgh!” Constrictor hurled Darkhawk away, releasing him from the adamantium coils. Darkhawk slammed into a parked, unoccupied car. Struggling to free himself from the twisted frame, Darkhawk caught the strong odor of gasoline. The fuel tank was leaking, and an electrified coil was swinging down.
“Looks like you were right about fuel!” said Constrictor, laughing. The laughter stopped though, as soon as the coil began falling up. Not feeling anything under his feet, Constrictor looked down and saw that he was rising up in the air. “Wha-“
“This is what happens when you negate gravity!”
The new speaker was a young man floating in the sky over Constrictor and Darkhawk. His bodysuit was white and blue, with goggles, kneepads, padded gloves and sneakers. On his chest was a symbol that Darkhawk had to look at twice. At first he thought it was a yellow X, but then he realized it was four blue arrows aimed at a central point in a yellow circle.
“Who the hell are you, runt?” Constrictor yelled.
In the response, the young man motioned an arm down. Constrictor, coils and all, slammed against the pavement. “And that is what happens when you tack on a few extra G’s. In case the powers didn’t clue you in, I call myself Gravity!”
By this time Darkhawk had returned to his feet. “Thanks for the help.”
“Looks like you needed it,” said Gravity. “Gotta fly. Try not to screw up my hard work before the authorities take him away.”
With that, Gravity flew off, leaving an offended Darkhawk behind. Freed, Constrictor began to move, but Darkhawk placed a foot over his throat. “That kid left me in a bad mood, so please try something. Where does he get off, treating a former Avenger like a rookie?”
Constrictor chuckled. “I know. Kids these days. No respect.”
# # # # # # # # # #
“Let me be blunt. After recent events, confidence in the government is at an all-time low.” Stu Conrad was standing with the Avengers in their informal conference room on the mansion’s ground floor. Seated at the long table before him were an armorless Stingray, a depowered Binary and Warbird, Karnak, Quicksilver and Espirita in their uniforms. Stu didn’t like meeting without the Chairperson present, but Warbird had assured him Captain America wouldn’t mind. “What else could you call it after the President of the United States locks up most of Congress?”
“A long-needed assertion of authority,” Karnak offered.
“He did release them,” Warbird said. “As soon as a new Congress was formed after special elections, they voted down the law granting him that authority and he complied. The President was just making a point.”
“And for the most part people were calm about it,” said Stu. “But only because Captain America was there at every step, from the arrests to the announcement through the elections and the release. Captain America, and by extension the Avengers, are more trusted than the government.”
“Is that supposed to be a problem?” asked Binary.
“Red Skull tried to capitalize on it,” said Quicksilver. “He’d planned to kill and replace us with fresh new ‘heroes’ that he would use to secretly run the country.”
“But that failed because the Avengers are just that good,” said Stu. “The people’s faith in you isn’t blind and unfounded. Whatever the crisis, you always come out ahead. The government needs to be seen working more closely with you, not separate from you.”
“I’m not sure I like this talk about faith and separation,” said Espirita. “For all the good we do, the Avengers still require oversight. We have locked below a member that betrayed us. And recently there were several incidents on the West Coast. If the Avengers are given too much rope and something does go wrong, more than a few may hang.”
“I don’t think our liaison is talking about full autonomy,” said Stingray. “Publically it may appear that way, the government granted us blanket authority. But behind the scenes we’ll still be watched closely.”
“Not so closely as you would think. The government feels that the Avengers have earned their trust. Particularly in regards to the Hulk.” Stu’s eyes went to the only other man standing, Doctor Robert Bruce Banner. “What happened before was the Avengers placing their trust in the government, and when that went south the Avengers dealt with it. And how are you feeling now, Doctor Banner?”
Bruce Banner suppressed a shudder. “Iron Man says all that hardware is out of my system. I don’t feel my…his voice in my head anymore.” He’d been about to say my future self.
“Problems caused by rogue elements in our government, and solved by the Avengers,” said Stu. “For that reason, we’d like for you to stay at the mansion, under Avengers supervision.”
“Just a moment ago you said we weren’t going to be strong armed.” Warbird stood up out of her chair. “Now you’re forcing members on us.”
“We’re not telling you to make Hulk a member,” Stu said quickly. “We’re merely asking that you supervise Doctor Banner in any capacity that you see fit. If you feel that he’s not a danger to himself and to others, he can walk out right now.”
“I think I’m best suited to make that determination,” Banner said. “I’d like to stay.”
“And we’re glad to have you,” said Warbird, her eyes still on their new liaison. “Any other demands? Maybe you’d like us to execute Vision without a trial?”
“If you wanted to do that, we’d say no,” said Stu. “At least not without a hearing to determine whether he should be afforded rights as a person. Until then we are comfortable leaving him in your care. Now I’ll get to what we’re not comfortable with.”
Karnak chose this moment to speak, pointing his thumb at Quicksilver. “He’s referring to the two of us, foreign nationals with direct blood ties to known terrorists.”
“I wouldn’t exactly classify them as terrorists.” Nevertheless, Stu nodded. “But yes, Magneto is the leader of a rogue nation whose son is one of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes. So far we’ve managed to keep things with Genosha from escalating, but if they do, Quicksilver, what side will you be on?”
“In the past I’ve been either way,” said Quicksilver. With a sigh, he stood up. “I don’t like having my loyalty questioned, but you do have a point. If we are in a conflict, and I see that Wanda has sided with our father…the chance is there.”
Warbird spoke up. “Pietro, nobody is-”
“No, but my sister has been missing for some time. A leave of absence, while I go look for her.”
“If you ever need help,” said Espirita, “you need only ask.”
“Spare me your arguments,” Karnak said before Stu could speak. “I know them all, and probably many you haven’t thought of. And you would be right, I do value my family above everything else. At first it led to some tension here.” Karnak looked at Quicksilver. “Fortunately, we managed to move past it. Nevertheless, my place is back in Attilan.”
“Well, I’m sorry to see the two of you go,” said Warbird. “Just when we’ve managed to get this team working, something had to change.”
Binary smiled. “Oh, but new members are always so much fun.”
# # # # # # # # # #
“You’re assigning me to the Avengers?” Robbie Baldwin asked, incredulous. “Can you just do that?”
“I’m the head of Damage Control. I can do anything I want.” Robin Chapel leaned forward over her desk, which Baldwin was standing across from. They were inside her cramped office, on a middle floor of the Flatiron building where Damage Control was based. “The Avengers cause a lot of damage, which we have to clean up. It only makes sense that we have somebody assess them full time.”
“Yeah, I get that. But…me?” Baldwin looked down at himself, a lanky young man in a suit one-size too big and in need of a haircut. “There has to be someone more qualified. Bart collected a bill from Doctor Doom!”
“I can’t live without my assistant,” Robin said. “This is an important assignment, Robert. Is there some reason you’re so against this?”
Yeah, the fact that I’m a super-hero, thought the alter-ego of Speedball. If he was following around the Avengers before and during conflicts, he would feel obligated to suit up and join in. Helping to cause damage that he was supposed to be assessing would be a major conflict of interest.
“I’ve gotten used to jumping into things after the fight,” Baldwin said. “The places the Avengers go…I’m not current on my Shi’ar bird-flu immunizations.”
Robin wasn’t amused. “It’s done. The paperwork’s been filed. They’re expecting you, to help in whatever capacity they need. Now bounce over there and get to work.”
Bounce? “Uh, Ms. Chapel, what are you…?”
“Whatever problems arise I’m sure you’ll do the right thing.” Robin raised a knowing eyebrow. “Now go. I have to coordinate with Lenny about the reconstruction in Mutant Town.”
# # # # # # # # # #
Following the riot of the Mutant Town Festival, relief aid was delayed pending a review by local, state and federal governments. Public safety was given as a justification, and in the meantime unfavorable mutants lacked medical care and safe housing. The situation was abhorrent to Espirita, and using newfound Avengers authority she rushed in with what aid she could. Fortunately some teammates were also willing to lend a hand.
Espirita was handing out water bottles when Photon appeared in a flash of light. “I’ve fused together all the cracks I could find, but these makeshift repairs are temporary at best. I also identified the buildings that are unsafe no matter what I do. Warning signs are being posted.”
“It should serve until crews arrive tomorrow.” Espirita looked across the damaged street to a recently collapsed building. “The important thing is that won’t happen again with people inside.”
A cheer was raised among the hungry crowd. Espirita and Photon saw a truck drive in with food, Dazzler jumping from the back. The mutant singer’s outfit was a far cry from her old jumpsuits and leotards, a hipster style that combined modern with vintage accessories like her jacket and high boots.
“In one day you’ve done more than I’ve been able to,” Dazzler told the Avengers. “I don’t think the proceeds from my charity CD covered band-aids.”
“I am happy to help in any way I can,” said Espirita.
“Me too,” said Photon. “This is too much like what happened in New Orleans. A whole people forgotten. And don’t downplay your own contributions. People here seem to appreciate it.”
“I certainly never thought my experiences in Mojoworld would be useful in the middle of New York City.” Dazzler opened a box of nutrient bars and began passing them out. “If things are so bad here, I can only imagine how it is in other countries.”
“Sometimes my heart cannot help but break,” said Espirita. “I can take you to see some of those places, if you like.”
Dazzler shrugged. “Maybe. I prefer getting one’s own house in order first, though. And I’m sure you’re busy, what with all your Avengers duties on top of it.”
But Espirita shook her head. “Not only have I still managed all I’ve done before, the Avengers’ resources have enabled me in so many ways.”
“Even when I was a full-time member, I found time to visit Paris every other week,” said Photon.
“Well, you can fly at the speed of light,” laughed Dazzler. “When I saw you join the team, I was glad to have turned down membership. Not only would it have been one light-powered lady too many, you offer so much more than I could have. And with everything you’ve done lately as a reservist, just imagine if you were full-time again.”
“Dazzler isn’t wrong about that,” Espirita said to Photon. “And we do have a couple openings. Either or both of you would be more than welcome.”
“Really? After my whole spiel about redundancy?”
“Stop selling yourself short, Dazzler. Your experience and skill more than makes you a match for me.”
Dazzler laughed again. “Tell me, how long did it take you to inspect and patch every building in this area?”
After a quick mental calculation, Photon said, “About twenty minutes.”
“Exactly.” Dazzler shook her head. “I’m all for doing a job that needs doing, but when somebody better comes along I’ll step back and let them do it. Besides, I prefer my life simple. I’m a full-time performer who occasionally gets caught up in outlandish adventures. Besides,” she added with a grin, “joining a team means sharing the spotlight. I’m not about to do that, and certainly not with the likes of Captain America!”
“Well,” Photon said to Espirita, “I’ll at least think on the offer.”
# # # # # # # # # #
A burst of energy exploded off Captain America’s shield. As with all previous attacks, he’d managed to block it just in time. High-velocity bullets were a simple matter, but even Captain America’s reflexes were taxed by attacks made at the speed of light. It certainly didn’t allow for him to dodge those attacks, or even to outrun his attacker. As fast as Captain America could run, Warbird could fly faster.
“Admit it, Cap,” Warbird said as she circled over the leaping Captain America. “As great as you may be on land, air-superiority trumps that every time.”
“Only when it’s superior!” Twisting through the air, Captain America threw his shield. It missed Warbird, and her energy burst struck Captain America at his hip. He went down, but Captain America’s shield went off a wall and flew at Warbird’s new position.
“Which you certainly are,” Captain America said when he saw Warbird effortlessly grab the shield before it could strike her. Warbird landed, and when she extended her hand Captain America accepted the help up. “You never cease to impress me with our skills, Carol.”
“You know it’s all in the training,” Carol said. “Air Force, CIA, even some alien Kree. It doesn’t compare to the experience earned by fighting in the worst of World War II.” She handed Captain America back his shield. “Training has safeguards. When it matters, you’re the one that finds a way. How’d it go out west?”
Captain America strapped the shield onto his back and led Warbird out of the training room. “Michael’s a good kid, and his friend Emery should be fine. My concern is the ones that got away. Were they all brainwashed? Willing? A mixture of both? Speedball gave us some background to work with, but we should find out all we can, and certainly we have to find them. The one who shot Jennifer especially.”
“Speaking of which, have you met with our new liaison?”
“No. In fact, I’m avoiding it until I’ve discussed this with you. What do you think of this new authority the government is granting us?”
Warbird took a breath. “I think it doesn’t make any sense. Our liaison can say anything he wants, but the government is so big there will always be elements to butt heads against. And when that happens, I’d rather it was one of our people dealing with them rather than another government employee.”
“It makes me uneasy too. In one sentence we’re told that we operate with real freedom, and in the next conditions are placed.” Captain America flashed his identicard past a sensor by the elevator doors. They opened, and he walked inside “I’m glad Karnak and Quicksilver didn’t force the issue, but what if they had? Once again the Avengers have been embroiled into politics and I don’t like it.”
Warbird followed him into the elevator. “Well, what can we do? Saying no isn’t really an option.”
“I’m going to step down. Leave the team.”
Warbird thought she must have misheard him. “Uh, come again?”
Crossing his arms, Captain America gave a serious expression. “More so than Karnak and Quicksilver, I’m the most politicized member of this team. Every move I make reflects on us, and now by extension the government.”
It was so ludicrous Warbird wanted to laugh. “Well, Steve, you’ll always reflect on the government. You’re Captain friggin’ America. Unless you’re planning to…?”
“No, I’m not giving up the shield.” Captain America didn’t think it would come to that. Not yet. “And I’ll always be there for the Avengers if needed, but for now I can’t be the team’s public face. This way, if I ever do something that the government won’t have a choice but to disavow, the Avengers won’t suffer.”
“And because the government made this decision mainly because of your reputation, if they have to go back on it the administration won’t be too damaged politically.” Seeing his point, Warbird nodded. “You’re trying to protect everyone here Steve. Okay, I get it, but who do you think should run this team in the meantime?”
“By figuring me out, Carol, you answered your own question. You’re a soldier able to follow orders but always to question them when needed. The team trusts and respects you enough to follow orders without asking questions. And most importantly, you know what it is to never give up in the face of great failure.”
“How can I possibly turn down such flattery?” Coming from Captain America, Warbird really did consider it high praise. Especially when Warbird considered where she’d been only a short time ago. “I suppose my first official function will be to inform our liaison?”
“Yes, but don’t worry. I’ll be at the press conference. It’ll give me great pleasure to announce you into the arena.”
“Lord knows I’ve come short many times, but yes, I actually do strive to do the deeds.”
The elevator doors opened, and Captain America nodded Warbird forward.
“Well, go on. The team should be told first.”
Next Issue: The Avengers help an old ally against a villain with all the answers.