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lonelyfanboy48 · 1 year ago

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Loud House Shotgun Cannonball To Black Flag Circuit Chapters 1 & 2

Chapter 1 Brand New Rockin' Driver

Since Spring started, Luna had been practicing driving the car, with Sam helping her out after she passed her test. The last several months were dreadful for Luna, she made countless mistakes which nearly caused her to fail her test, but after getting support from her girlfriend, she made sure she didn't mess it up again. At the beginning of July, after studying day and night, Luna finally passed her test one hundred percent. She took her picture for her driver's license as she left by driving back home with Sam by her side.

“I’m really proud of you.” Sam smiled. “I thought that you would never get your driver’s license.”

“Neither did I.” Luna paid attention to the road. “Lori really made it look easy when she got her license.”

“It’s not like she never made mistakes afterwards. As for Leni…” Sam bites her lip.

“Yeah, don’t talk about it.”

“So, what car are you planning on buying?”

“I’m not buying a car.” Luna responded.

“Why? I’m planning on getting one when I have enough money.”

“It’s not that I don’t want one, I've wanted something better, ever since I turned sixteen.” As she passed the green light, she turned to her girlfriend while she still wore the pendant she gave her from Christmas last year. “A motorcycle.”

“A motorcycle?” Sam blinked. “You just practice driving a wheel for months.”

“True, but Royal Woods doesn’t have a DMV practice facticity. In fact, I’ve only seen motorcycles from out of town. I took my driver’s license so I can go to the nearest outside town to search for one. My parents refuse to drive out of town.”

Sam wanted to be supportive, but she’s unsure about Luna’s new goal. “Don’t you think that driving a car is much safer than a motorcycle?”

“Don’t you want to ride with me on a motorcycle?”

“I prefer staying inside of a car protecting me all around. I just don’t want to get into a dangerous accident. Plus…you driving a car is fine as it is, you don’t have to go the extra mile.”

Luna couldn’t disagree with her girlfriend, but she always goes the extra mile when the opportunity is still open for her. While she’ll have no problem driving to gigs with her band, it would be phenomenal in the future to see her along with her band with their own motorcycles, diving on the highway in the sunset and into the night.

“If you are feeling what I'm feeling right now, you would love being on a motorcycle with me. It’ll be our own special date when we go out that way.”

This caused Sam to blush, thinking about the possibilities. “It’s still too early but…” She looked out the car window. “...It’ll be exciting.”

“Now look who’s catching on.” Luna grinned. “I promise we won’t get into any dangerous accidents on the road.”

“Let’s just focus on the now in the meantime.”

On their way home, back at the Loud’s residence, Lana, her pet Hops, and Lori are watching TV in the living room. Lori is waiting for Luna after the many times she failed. With today being the moment to glory, she hoped that her sister succeeded. Everyone may not be around to celebrate her accomplishment, she really wants to see her drive for the first time.

Lana is waiting for the King Cars commercial after learning that Bobbie Fletcher is gonna be part of it. She doesn’t know what the commercial’s gonna be like but she can’t wait to see Bobbie again.

Luna parked Vanzilla at the driveway as she and Sam got out. They made their way to the front door as Luna unlocked it with her key, getting the attention from Lori and Lana. “Luna.” Lori got up from the sofa. “Did you get your driver's license?”

“You bet I did!” She exclaimed proudly, showing it to Lori.”

“She finally passed.” Sam added.

“Great!” Lori cheered. “Can’t wait for the family to find out about this while mom and dad allow you to take the steering wheel.”

“You know I’ve born to take control of the family’s wheel.” Luna gave her sister a fist bump. “Hey Lana, guess who got their driver's license?”

“You did!” She pointed. “Now we have five people in the family who can take us wherever we want!”

“Okay, don’t get too excited.” Sam claims Luna’s younger sister down. “She’s not gonna go out often since she still needs a car.”

“That’s not gonna be easy.” Lori replied. “Either you get a job or have your neighbor take him to different places in order to have his car in the end.” She then lowered her head. “Of which the latter is unlikely.”

“Our gigs have been profitable, not much, but we’re making sure we will save enough…even though I want something else.” Luna said.

“She wants to buy a motorcycle instead of a car.” Sam filling in.

Lori and Lana looked at each other after hearing about Luna’s goal. While they refuse to get in her way of life, they’re on the same boat that Sam’s in. “A motorcycle may be cheaper than a car but…it’s better to go with the term, time is money.” Lori commented.

“Except for once in a lifetime deals.” Lana added as Hops nodded on her head.

“I’m still focusing on the now…even though I wish there’s another way to get a motorcycle.”

“Don’t worry about it.” Lori replied. “In a little bit, can you show me how good your driving is?”

“I will, I’m just gonna have some ice cream.”

“Can I have some?” Sam asked.

“Sure.” Luna and Sam made their way to get some ice cream from the kitchen while Lori and Lana went back to the TV.

“I hope she doesn’t get herself into dangerous accidents, or worse.” Lori sitting back down on the sofa.

“She won’t act like she’s driving a motorcycle.” Lana sat in front of the TV. “I know she’s not gonna be as bad as Leni.”

“The thing is Lana, if she ever gets a motorcycle, I’m still confident she won’t be reckless since she and us…experienced Vanzilla carnage.”

Then the King Cars commercial appeared on the TV, catching Lana’s attention. “It’s on!” As Lori watched with her, the commercial finished its mini intro as it went straight to the business owner of King Cars.

“Citizens of Royal Woods, we have a special guest at King Cars!” He cheered in front of the camera. “Please welcome, Bobbie Fletcher!” Bobbie Fletcher appeared on screen as Lana cheered. “She has a special announcement that’ll take over Royal Woods for a brand new event!” He gave Bobbie the microphone as she gave her announcement to the citizens back home.

“Racing fans!” She cheered. “We’re gonna be throwing our one and only event, THE ROYAL WOODS RACEWAY!”

“WHAT!?” Lana reacted while paying more attention to the TV.

“One full lap in the city of Royal Woods. Neighborhoods, resorts and lodges, anywhere you can think of. For the full day, our contestants will race all out to make this the most unique race in history. And those contestants can be one of you!” She pointed at the TV screen, causing Lana’s eyes to sparkle.

“Only five teams will qualify to the Royal Woods Raceway, so you better come over to King Cars sooner than later to volunteer. It’ll be your only opportunity to take part in the race. And one more thing…” The camera zoomed in on her, as she gave everyone one final announcement. “I’m taking part in the race.”

Lana’s jaw dropped, while Lori couldn’t believe what she just saw. She doesn’t want to take part in the race but on the other hand, she’s no longer the option to drive people to places with another sister being an option.

“And the people who participate, and pass the finish line, will win one of these.” She got out of the way as she showed the five rewards. One of the rewards is a black and purple sport touring motorcycle with hot rod flames. This gave Lana an idea, hoping she can get to King Cars today before it’s too late.

Bobbie Fletcher gave the microphone back to the King Cars business owner as he closed off the commercial. “The Royal Woods Raceway will take place in two weeks. Come over to King Cars right now to start your engines!” The commercial ended as Lana turned to Lori in a flash.

“Me and Luna will definitely be a team in this!” Lana shaked as Hops groaned in annoyance. “Oh, you’re also part of the team, I wouldn’t leave you out.” She hugged Hops.

Lori sighed after watching the whole commercial. “Not even an hour later, Luna’s definitely on the verge of losing her speed studies.”

Chapter 2 Blazing Velocity Shot

After Luna and Sam finished their ice cream, Lori told them to head to King Cars right away. She didn’t tell them why they were going there, especially since they can’t afford to buy or even rent a car, but Lana made sure to keep it a secret when it came to the rewards. They arrived at their destination as Luna parked safely in the parking lot.

“Good parking job.” Lori smiled.

“You can not believe the amount of times I’ve had to do it over in order to get it right.” Luna replied as she and the others got out of Vanzilla. “But still, Lana, you didn’t even give us a reason why we’re here.”

“Trust me, you’re gonna love it.” Lana said.

“Is there a car you want to show me?”

“No, but something really better. I’m surprised you didn’t see what was hanging above the road before we parked.”

“She’s been focusing on the road, she’s still new to this.” Sam spoked. “Let’s head inside.”

The group entered inside the building of King Cars, where a couple of race cars were displayed next to the window. Luna caught on knowing that racing is Lana’s favorite sport, but the truth of itself won’t make her like it.

“Hello customers.” The business owner smiled. “Which car can I help you to find?”

“We’re not here for a car.” Lori said. “This is about your commercial my younger sister Lana saw.”

“We want to participate in the Royal Woods Raceway!” Lana cheered which shocked her sister and girlfriend.

“Wait, what!?” Luna reacted.

“Oh so you want to be the first to participate? Then I’ll get right down to it!” He smiled as he headed to the back. “Give me a moment, wait right there.”

“Wait, I didn’t agree to- But I just got my-” Luna couldn’t finish her sentence as the business owner left. She turned to Lana in a shocked look while her girlfriend felt the same. “Lana, what did you just do!?”

“We’re gonna be in a team in a race where Bobbie Fletcher is also competing!” He cheered.

“But I don’t want to compete!”

“Lana, you and Luna’s parents aren’t gonna be happy when they find out about this.” Sam filling in. “I don’t want to see Luna get herself injured.”

“Why didn’t you tell us?” Luna turned to Lori.

“I was going to, but there’s something about the race that…” Lori looked away knowing Luna will change her mind once it’s all out.

“What!?”

“...you wouldn’t want to skip on the opportunity.”

“What do you mean? I just said I don’t want to compete.”

“You'll find out.”

“Oh, you will find out.” Lana smiled.

The business owner came back with the race car driver that caught Lana’s attention. Bobbie Fletcher has a Royal Woods Raceway contract in her hand as she’s prepared to give it to Lana or Luna. “Just read the rules from this contract and once you sign it, you and your team’s name will be part of the race.”

“If you sign this, we'll show you which modded race cars you can rent and practice before the race arrives.” Bobbie Fletcher added.

“Oh this is gonna be exciting!” Lana said while her sister, Luna scratched on the back of her head, looking away.

“Who’s gonna be your driver then dude?” Lana pointed at Luna which Bobbie and the business owner turned to. Luna slowly turned back while trying to be as nice as possible, despite Lana putting her in his position.

“Uhhhh…” She replied. “...does the Royal Woods Raceway prevent drivers from getting speed violation tickets afterwards?”

“You won’t, so don’t worry.”

“It took months to make sure everything is sorted out.” The business owner added. “Though we’re still making sure the race itself doesn’t cause any severe incidents.”

“I got to say though.” Bobbie walking up to Luna. “You look like someone who’ll do anything for a sister, who’s a big fan of mine.” She then turned to Lana. “Who’ll be my pit crew member when she’s older.”

“That is, if she told me ahead of time.” She looked down.

“Bobbie Fletcher.” Sam filling in. “Luna and I just got our driver’s licenses and we agreed to prevent any dangerous accidents.”

“Also, I don’t think you have something that’s worth any value to me.” Luna added.

“Well it looks like someone doesn’t know about the rewards upon finishing the race.” Bobbie grinned while she wrapped her arm around Luna. “Let me show you what you’ll get once you finish the race.” Bobbie took Luna to the prizes that’s hidden behind the curtain along with a glass wall sealed. The business owner grabbed the rope, pulling it down to move the curtain out of the way.

In full view of the prizes, Luna’s eyes sparkled while she stared at the black and purple sport touring motorcycle. Bobbie Fletcher loved the look on her face as she let go of her, allowing her to walk up to the glass wall, looking at the motorcycle from her eyes. Sam also found the motorcycle mesmerizing, enough for her and Luna to ride on together but at the same time, she still has second thoughts, but not her girlfriend.

“If you sign the contract right now, we'll allow your team to pick one reward in advance as long as you finish the race.”

This caused Luna to turn around in a flash. “Then give me the contract!”

“Here you go.” Bobbie gave Luna the contract and pen as she went to Lana so she can sign as well.

“Let’s rock this joint!”

“You bet!” Lana cheered.

As the two sisters read the rules, Sam and Lori were speechless, but not in a cheerful way. Sam turned around to look at the motorcycle again. A part of her really wants the motorcycle, but she really wants her girlfriend to be extremely careful , especially after months of work and practice towards getting her license.

“Is that motorcycle a rare one of a kind?” She turned to Bobbie.

“Yes.” Bobbie answered. “It has all of the accessories with high sounding quality from every radio station and it can go above one hundred and fifty miles per hour.”

“That’s a great deal…if we would ever run from the law.”

“You can still run it on the race tracks. There’s no law if the executives allow it.”

“It’s a great motorcycle, I won’t deny it, but our parents won’t like this.” Lori added. “Even if Lana isn’t gonna drive, she’s still too young for this. This is more dangerous than the race she and Lincoln had.”

“You forgot that she showed me how much passion she has when I waited for her and her brother, finishing her last race the right way.” Bobbie crossed her arms while still smiling.

“That’s because me and my family fell asleep. It was night time when they finished the race.”

“I wouldn’t even stay awake for how long they took to make it to the finish line.” Sam commented.

“Nobody would blame you.” The business owner added.

“But after that day, she told me, she wanted to be inside of a race car, wishing there’s a race filled with teamwork and dreams.” Bobbie took notice of Sam’s pendent. “Do you have dreams with Luna?”

This caused Sam to blush. “Kind of.”

“Then be in her team along with her sister. Trust me. I remember what I felt when my dreams finally came true. Racing can do more than you think.”

Sam took Bobbie’s words to heart, if it’s the only way to get a motorcycle that’s way better than the ones in stores, she’ll make her own dreams come true as well. She made her way to Luna and Lana, who were preparing to sign the contract.

“How will Mom and Dad take it well when they find out about this?” Lori placed her hand on her hip.

“I’m sure my biggest fan along with her sister can work it out. You can be their crew chief if you’re a good driver.”

“We’re giving every team the map of the race track itself.” The business owner showed the map to Lori. “If it’ll make things easier, you can take them to the locations for them to remember where they’re going.”

“Thanks.” Lori smiled. “But this is gonna be a long two weeks. This race will literally change Luna big time. But I don’t know if it’s a bad thing…or a good thing."

#fanfiction #the loud house #luna loud #luna x sam #lana loud #lori loud #bobbie fletcher #fanfic #sam sharp #literature #nicktoons #nickelodeon

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noctisiss · 4 months ago

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POWER BROKER

A/N What if there was another super solider? Someone just like Bucky himself however she escaped HYDRA leaving her past and Bucky behind. However befriending Steve had other plans. And now six years later the truth finally gets revealed.Should I make part 2 of this or maybe even continue and fill all in the plot holes what do you guys think?

BUCKY X OC WARNING: ANGST, FIGHT SCENES, ZEMO AND BUCKY (They get their own warning), Language, swearing, mentions of abuse and torture, mentions of murder, VIOLENCE and much more you have been warned

BERLIN,GERMANY

“He’s just through that corridor.” Sam’s voice was steady as he gestured down the dimly lit hallway. The tension in the air was thick enough to cut with a knife. He took a breath, turning to the two people standing at his side.

“Give us a sec. I’m going in alone.”

The moment the words left Bucky’s mouth, both Sam and Luna who was next to him froze. Sam blinked in disbelief, and the woman’s eyebrows shot up in alarm.

“Excuse me, wh–” she began, her voice sharp, a flicker of concern behind her eyes.

“Why?” Sam interrupted quickly, eyes narrowing on Bucky.

Bucky shook his head slowly, already anticipating the pushback. His metal hand clenched slightly, the subtle whir of vibranium audible as his fingers curled into a fist. He looked at them both—first to Sam, then to the woman, his expression calm but firm.

“You’re an Avenger,” he said to Sam, his tone matter-of-fact. Then he shifted his gaze to Luna, his voice a touch colder, more pointed. “And you can deny that you weren’t one as well, but you participated in Ultron’s battle.”

She exhaled through her nose with a bitter smirk and rolled her eyes, folding her arms. The comment clearly struck a nerve.

“It’s not like you two were known for frolickin’ in the sun together,” Sam added dryly, but beneath the sarcasm was something more—something anxious. Luna caught it in his tone, saw it mirrored in his eyes. He was worried. Just like she was.

Bucky took a step forward, his voice lowering. “He was obsessed with HYDRA. We have a history together. Trust me. I got it.” He tapped his chest as if that settled the matter.

But it didn’t.

Luna who was standing beside Sam scoffed, louder this time, her body moving instinctively in front of Sam, like she might physically block Bucky from making this decision. “You are going into the lion’s den, Bucky. Without backup. Without anyone at your side.” Her voice cracked just slightly—not wanting Bucky to be near Zemo again “I get it, okay? Wakanda helped you. You’re not under their control anymore. But he–” she nearly spat the word, refusing to say Zemo’s name, like it tasted vile—“he used those words to control you. Not to turn you into a weapon again, but to dehumanize you. To rip you apart from the inside out again and for what?.To take revenge on us Bucky. And let’s not forget—he pretended to be you, too. Don’t act like that. Don’t like things like that, don't leave any scars..”

She was breathing faster now, the emotion breaking through the cracks in her composure. Her fists were clenched, jaw tight, but her eyes—her eyes were pleading.

In the middle of her ranting of all the wrong things that could go wrong, Bucky gently reached out and placed a steady hand on her shoulder. His touch made her flinch slightly, not in fear, but in resistance. He looked into her eyes with quiet resolve.

“Just please… trust me.”

The words landed heavy. Her lips pressed into a line, her shoulders tensing, then slowly sinking as she let out a deep sigh, like all the fight had drained from her at once.

After a moment of hesitation, she finally gave a small, reluctant nod and stepped aside, motioning for him to go.

Bucky offered her a faint, appreciative smile before turning and walking towards the corridor. She watched his back as he moved, her arms now tightly crossed over her chest like armor.

“If you don’t come out in ten minutes,” she called after him, her voice loud and unwavering, “I’m going in there.”

Bucky turned just before rounding the corner, a grin tugging at the edge of his lips. “I expect nothing less from you.”

And then he disappeared into the shadows of the hallway, leaving her and Sam standing in silence.

“He’s fucked isn’t he?” Sam asks, trying to lighten the mood. Making her smile.

“Oh definitely” She nods along her head shaking in disapproval.

A low hum of tension filled the dim corridor as the trio moved stealthily through an abandoned wing of the facility. Sam’s flashlight beam danced across cold, concrete walls, catching on every crevice and casting shifting shadows. The walks behind both of them—silent yet alert, her eyes ever watchful—moved in step with them, her gloved hand close to her weapon as if ready for any sign of trouble.

Sam’s voice cut through the ambient hum of the facility. “What are you talking about? You wanna break Zemo outta jail?” Sam looks around the dark facility.” Where are we, Buck? Have you lost your mind?”

He gestured sharply with the flashlight, its beam emphasizing his incredulity and mounting frustration.”He has. He lost his marbles” Luna takes a breath not liking the fact that they were in uncharted territory. “But I do believe after the stunt he pulled with wanting to talk to Zemo alone. He never had any.”

Bucky’s expression remained inscrutable as he replied evenly. “We have no leads, no moves, nothing.” His tone was steady, betraying no hint of panic as he pressed forward.

A tense pause hung between them before Sam added in a low, dangerous murmur, “What we have is one of the most dangerous men in the world behind bars.” The harsh truths of their mission underscored every word as his eyes flicked to the darkened corners ahead. Luna nodded agreeing with Sam.

Bucky’s next words came as a controlled statement of fact: “We also have eight Super Soldiers that are loose.” His voice carried the weight of experience, the slightest echo of worry barely perceptible beneath the steady cadence.

As they moved deeper into the labyrinthine hallways, Sam’s tone grew sharper. “Zemo’s gonna mess with our minds. Especially yours. No offense.” His words lingered in the air, dense with the painful memory of past deceptions and betrayals.

Bucky shot a sidelong glance at Sam and then at the woman—whose eyes had narrowed, equally aware of the implications—and replied, “Offense.” The girl rolls her eyes at his behavior. “ Super Soldiers go against everything he believes in. He’s crazy, but he still has a code.” His words were measured yet hinted at a dangerous familiarity with Zemo’s philosophy. At his words Luna looks at him like he was in fact insane.

The conversation deepened as Sam’s voice was sarcastic, heavy with a mix of regret and admonishment. “Bucky, I’ve been on the wrong side of that code—and so have you. He blew up the UN, he killed King T’Chaka and framed you for it. Did you forget that? You think the Wakandans forgot about it?” His words hung over them like a dark cloud, each syllable a reminder of old wounds that still festered. “That was a rhetorical question. They didn’t!”

Bucky’s jaw tightened, and then he broke the silence with a tactical observation, “We don’t know how they’re gettin’ the serum. We don’t even know how many of them there are. Let me just walk you through a hypothetical. Can I walk you through a hypothetical?” His invitation was calm, persuasive—a necessity to outline a plan amid chaos.

“What did you do?” Both demanded sharply, their impatience mingling with genuine concern as both peered at Bucky.

“I didn’t do anything.” Bucky’s response was curt, and suddenly the present began to blur into recollections of a darker time.

Flashback Bucky stood face-to-face with Zemo in a cramped, shadowed cell. Dust motes drifted in the slivers of light peeking through high barred windows. Bucky’s eyes locked onto Zemo’s as he questioned, “What’s the book you’re reading?”

“Machiavelli.” Zemo replied coolly, his tone laced with a dangerous intellect.

Bucky’s response was almost a whisper, heavy with cynical truth. “The weakest point in any system isn’t the software, the hardware—it’s the meatware. The human element.” His voice steadied as he continued, outlining the grim logistics of a potential prison uprising. “Now, in this lockup, it’s nine to one—prisoners to guards. And if two prisoners start fighting, then the protocol says four guards have to respond.”

Back to the present, the corridor still echoing with the memory Sam’s brow furrowed as he pressed, “So why would two prisoners randomly start fighting at that moment?”

Bucky shrugged slightly, a gesture recalling the fluid uncertainty of the past. “Who knows? There could be many reasons…”

A chaotic flash exploded in memory: a flash of red ink on a paper with a handwritten note—He will kill you tonight. Kill him first. The sound of grunting, the rush of bodies colliding, and a blaring fire alarm all merged into a disorienting flash of violence.

Bucky’s voice returned, steady even as a digital buzzer droned on in the background. “But the point is, these things escalate.”

He added, “Lockdown procedures would have to be initiated, and with all those bodies flying around left and right, slipping down a hallway or two wouldn’t be hard.”

A guard’s terse announcement over the PA system in guttural German punctuated the scene, “Aufseher Menz.” Even then, chaos had its own cold logic.

“And if the fire alarm got tripped while the prisoners were being separated…” Bucky continued as the blare of an actual fire alarm tore through the corridor once more. “…someone could use the chaos to their advantage.”

Luna exchanged a wary glance with Sam as the noise and recollections subsided. Sam’s tone hardened as he remarked, “I don’t like how casual you’re bein’ about this. This is unnatural. Are you… And where are we, man?” His question trailed off as a heavy door creaked open ahead.

In unison, both Sam and the woman let out startled exclamations. “Whoa. Whoa, whoa.” Their voices, overlapping in a rare moment of shared alarm, underscored the precariousness of their position.

Bucky raised a hand for calm. “No, listen.” His tone was insistent—a clear directive meant to restore order to the unraveling scene.

Sam’s eyes darted around as he demanded, “What are you doin’ here?” His concern was palpable. “Bucky what have you done?!”

Bucky’s reply was measured, revealing a hint of regret. “I didn’t tell you both ‘cause I knew you wouldn’t let this happen.”

“What did you do?” Sam pressed again, the tension climbing.

“We need him,” Bucky stated quietly but firmly, referring to Zemo. His posture was resolute as he shifted his weight, preparing to step fully into the unknown. “No we don’t in fact need Zemo!” Luna said her words rising in alarm not wanting Zemo to be near any of them.

“You’re going back to prison!” Sam’s protest cut sharply through the murmur of the building’s systems.

A voice interjected calmly from the shadows—a familiar, measured tone that belonged to Zemo. “If I may…”

Before Zemo could say anything more, all three voices rang out in unison: “No!”

Zemo’s tone shifted as he added, “Apologies.” His defiance was laced with a careful politeness.

Bucky’s gaze swept over his companions, his eyes steady and unyielding. “When Steve refused to sign the Sokovia Accords, you backed him. You both broke the law, and you stuck your neck out for me. I’m asking you to do it again.” Luna sighs out at his request before groaned in annoyance at the situation at hand. She whanted to facepalm so bad at the sheer thought of letting Zemo out of jail was a good idea.

A brief silence fell before Zemo muttered, “I really think I’m invaluable…” His tone dripped with a mix of irony and self-assuredness.

Sam’s patience snapped. “Shut up.” He said lowly towards Zemo “Okay. If we do this, you don’t make a move without our permission.” His words carried a force that brooked no argument.

Zemo’s response was a measured nod. “Fair.”

The tense air shifted as Sam finally took control, locking eyes with Zemo through the dim light. “Okay, Zemo, where do we start?” Luna shook her head before muttering. “I can’t believe we're actually working with him..”

The hum of engines and the sharp click of footsteps echoed through the private hangar as the four figures made their way toward the sleek, unassuming jet waiting under cold metal beams and fluorescent light.

Zemo led the way, calm and confident, his coat swaying behind him like a man already back in power.

“So all this time you’ve been rich?” Sam asked, casting a sideways glance at the former prisoner.

Zemo didn’t even turn. “I’m a Baron, Sam. My family was royalty… until your friends destroyed my country.”

There was no bite in his voice—just a chilling matter-of-factness. Luna walking slightly behind him narrowed her eyes, sensing the veiled blame in his words. She caught Sam’s gaze for a second but said nothing.

As they approached the bottom of the jet’s stairs, Zemo greeted an older man in Russian.

“Здравствуйте, Oeznik.”

Oeznik greeted him warmly. “Добро пожаловать, господа.” Then, switching to English, “Welcome, gentlemen.”

Zemo gave the man a brief kiss on both cheeks and a rare smile. “Old friend.”

Luna stayed back as they exchanged pleasantries, her body language reserved, arms folded as her eyes scanned the jet and surrounding area with the vigilance of someone who had once lived a life full of shadows and exit plans.

“Please,” Zemo said, gesturing to them to get onboard.

Sam muttered under his breath, “Man, I knew he was shady, but private jet shady?”. The comment made the girl behind him smirk.

Zemo chuckled, amused at the commentary. “Apologies if it’s a little warm,” Oeznik said as they boarded. “The fridge is out. But I’ll see if there’s something decent in the galley.”

Zemo turned to Oeznik and whispered in Sokovian, “If it doesn’t pass the smell test… give it to them.”

Luna caught it, a flash of understanding crossing her face. Sokovian wasn’t far from the languages she'd learned during her training years ago. Zemo’s games hadn’t changed. She stepped past him without a word, brushing his shoulder slightly as she passed—a silent warning that she was listening.

Oeznik bowed slightly. “It’s good to have you back, sir.”

“Mm,” Zemo said, folding his coat carefully and settling into the leather seat. “You don’t know what it’s like to be locked in a cell. Oh. That’s right. You do.” His eyes flicked to Bucky, a crooked smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.

Luna stiffened just slightly, standing beside Sam, watching Bucky out of the corner of her eye. That hit a little too close to home—for both of them.

Sam stepped in, eager to move the topic along. “Why don’t you tell us about where we’re going?”

Bucky stayed quiet, but Zemo reached down to a compartment and retrieved a small leather-bound notebook—the same one Bucky kept close. He flipped it open, fingers brushing across the list of names written with careful, burdened precision.

“I’m sorry,” Zemo said mockingly. “I was just fascinated by this. I don’t know what to call it, but this part seems to be important…” He ran a finger down the page. “Who is Nakajima?” Before anyone could react Bucky leaped forward from his seat holding Zemo in a chokehold before ripping the notebook from his hands.

Bucky’s voice was laced with ice. “If you touch that again, I’ll kill you.”

The woman looked at him, startled—not expecting Bucky's sudden agression towards Zemo. But then agian that notebook did belong to Steve. She threw a worried glance his way.

Zemo sat back, hands up. “I understand that list of names. People you’ve wronged as the Winter Soldier.”

“Don’t push it,” Bucky snapped.

Luna finally spoke, her voice calm but edged. “Some wounds shouldn’t be picked at, Baron. You of all people should know that.”

Zemo regarded her with an amused glint in his eye. “Still sharp. Even after all this time away from the game.” She looked away, jaw tightening.

Sam leaned back and exhaled. “I’ve seen that book. It was Steve’s when he came out of the ice. I told him about Trouble Man. He wrote it in that book. Did you hear it? What’d you think?” Luna looked out of the window slightly smiling at the memories from the past.

Bucky shrugged. “I like ’40s music, so…”

“You didn’t like it?” Sam asked his tone, having a little hint of surprise .

“I liked it.” Bucky replied curtly.

Zemo, now reclining, closed his eyes for a moment and added, “It is a masterpiece, James. Complete. Comprehensive. It captures the African-American experience.”

Luna glanced at Sam with a lifted brow. He half-smiled. “He’s outta line,” Sam said, “but he’s right. It’s great. Everybody loves Marvin Gaye.”

“I like Marvin Gaye,” Bucky admitted, subdued.

“Steve adored Marvin Gaye,” Sam said more softly, a memory flickering behind his eyes.

Zemo opened his eyes, looking at them both. “You must have really looked up to Steve. But I realized something when I met him. The danger with people like him—America’s Super Soldiers—is that we put them on pedestals.”

“Watch your step, Zemo,” the woman warned sharply, her tone firm. Her past was full of those pedestals… and the lies behind them.

“They become symbols,” Zemo continued. “Icons. And then we start to forget about their flaws. From there, cities fly, innocent people die. Movements are formed, wars are fought. You remember that, right?” His eyes locked with hers now, cold and knowing. “A young soldier sent to Germany to stop a mad icon…”

She didn’t flinch, but her hands clenched into fists by her sides.

“Do we want to live in a world full of people like the Red Skull?” Zemo asked. “That is why we’re going to Madripoor.”

Sam raised an eyebrow. “What’s up with Madripoor? You talk about it like it’s Skull Island.”

Bucky answered before Zemo could. “It’s an island nation in the Indonesian archipelago. It was a pirate sanctuary back in the 1800s.”

“It’s kept its lawless ways,” Zemo added. “But we cannot exactly walk in as ourselves.” He looked at Bucky. “James, you will have to become someone you claim is gone.”

Then his gaze slowly turned towards the woman who was reluctantly sitting in front of him. “And I will require your assistance as well. Even though you haven’t been… active in quite some time, dear.”

The words sent a wave of unease through the jet. Sam turned slightly toward her, watching for her reaction. She held Zemo’s stare, cold and unmoved.

“You don’t know me like you think you do, Zemo,” she said.

Zemo gave a low, thoughtful chuckle. “Oh, but I do.”

Bucky looked between them, confused but silent. Something unspoken passed in the air, and he felt it—an undercurrent he didn’t understand.

But whatever it was, it was coming with them to Madripoor.

MADRIPOOR

The group moved through the crowded, chaotic streets of Madripoor, heading toward their destination. The evening sky was thick with the unmistakable scent of danger, the low hum of activity all around them. Zemo led the way, his confident stride indicating that he was in full control of the situation.

Sam, still trying to adjust to the bizarre role Zemo had placed him in, glanced down at his outfit. He felt ridiculous. “We have to fix this. I’m the only one who looks like a pimp.”

Zemo smirked without even looking at him. “Only an American would assume a fashion-forward Black man looks like a pimp. You look exactly like the man you’re supposed to be playing. The sophisticated, charming African rake named Conrad Mack, aka the Smiling Tiger.”

Sam rolled his eyes. “He even has a bad nickname. Hell, he does look like me, though.”

Zemo’s gaze shifted as he caught a whiff of something on the air. His eyes narrowed. “You smell this?”

Sam wrinkled his nose. “Yeah, what is that? Acid?”

“Madripoor,” Zemo replied coldly. “No matter what happens, we have to stay in character. Our lives depend on it. There’s no margin for error. High Town’s that way. Not a bad place if you want to visit, but Low Town’s the other way.”

Sam raised an eyebrow. “Let me guess. We don’t have any friends in High Town?”

Thunder rumbled ominously overhead as they continued their walk, the atmosphere growing more tense with each step. The city around them buzzed with life—lawless, dangerous, a place where anything could happen at any moment.

Luna moved with quiet grace beside Bucky, her every step precise and deliberate. Her battle-ready outfit given by Zemo for the mission was designed for one thing: to blend into the night and strike with lethal force when the moment called for it. The fabric was matte black, almost absorbing the light around her, leaving her as little more than a shadow among the shadows. A fitted tactical suit hugged her form, built for mobility while offering the necessary protection in a fight. Her chest and shoulders were reinforced with lightweight armor that looked as if it could withstand blunt force, but it didn’t make a sound as she moved. Over her shoulders, a long, dark cloak billowed softly, adding an almost ethereal quality to her presence. But what set her apart from any ordinary soldier was the mask—the metallic, battle-worn mask that covered the lower half of her face. She didn’t know and didn’t want to even find out how Zemo got ahold of her old mask. Cold and angular, the mask was a grim reminder of who she once was—a weapon created by Hydra. It reflected nothing but the steely determination behind her eyes. A quiet, ominous force. A woman who knew how to disappear in plain sight.

Bucky, walking beside her, didn’t know the truth yet. He had no idea that Luna, the woman who had been by his side during the darkest days, was actually the infamous Nightshade. The very same Nightshade who had worked alongside him in the shadows, a soldier of Hydra who had once been both an ally and an enemy, depending on which side the mission called for. Luna had escaped Hydra’s grasp years ago, but the shadow of her past never truly left her. Even now, as they worked together, she kept the truth hidden. Only Sam knew of her past—thanks to Steve, who had learned everything before the chaos of their shared history. And Zemo? He knew exactly who she was. But Bucky? He was still in the dark. And Luna was sure of herself that he didn't even want to know anything from their shared past after escaping Hydras clutches.

They walked in relative silence, Bucky glancing over at Luna occasionally. He could tell she was deep in thought, her gaze sharp and focused as she surveyed the surroundings. Despite the weight of their mission, there was an unspoken camaraderie between them. A bond forged during the days when they fought side by side, before she broke free from Hydra’s control.

Bucky glanced at her again, his voice low, just loud enough for her to hear. “You good?” he asked, his tone laced with concern, even though he couldn’t pinpoint why. He knew she was capable, but there was something more—something unspoken between them.

Luna gave a faint nod, her eyes never leaving their target ahead. “Always. You?”

Bucky hesitated, his mind clearly wrestling with something. “Yeah. I’m fine,” he said, though Luna could tell there was more to his words. She didn’t push him on it, instead offering a small, knowing nod.

As they arrived at the destination, Zemo stepped towards the door first, followed by Sam and Luna. Nightshade moved with the fluid grace of someone who had spent years in the shadows, her presence as dark as the night itself.

She moved silently, blending effortlessly into the group, though Sam could feel her presence was something that commanded attention.

Zemo turned to her, giving a subtle nod. “Ready to comply... Nightshade?”

The woman didn’t respond with words, but the cold edge in her eyes was more than enough to convey her readiness. For now, she was just another soldier, another cog in the wheel of their reluctant alliance with Zemo.

Zemo, his voice low, directed them inside. “Here we are.”

Inside, the atmosphere changed instantly. The music was loud, upbeat, but the air was thick with the smell of tension and power. Zemo didn’t waste a moment before speaking to the bartender in a language none of them understood.

“(In Russian) Ready to comply... Winter Soldier?”

A man near the bar noticed Bucky and froze. “Is that the Winter Soldier?” he muttered, fear evident in his voice.

Nightshade’s gaze flicked toward the man, her stance relaxed but ready, as if she could leap into action at a moment’s notice. She stayed silent, waiting to see how this would play out.

The bartender greeted them with a forced politeness. “Hello, gentlemen. Wasn’t expecting you, Smiling Tiger.”

Zemo gestured with a calm smile. “His plans changed. We have business to do with Selby.”

Luna’s posture shifted slightly at the mention of Selby, but her face remained neutral. Her past had a way of creeping into the present, and she had learned long ago how to hide her reactions.

The bartender hesitated, eyeing Zemo before asking, “The usual?”Sam gave a nonchalant nod.

Zemo returned a smile, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Ah. Smiling Tiger, your favorite.” Zemo looked like he was enjoying the situation they were in to its full extent.

Sam took the drink handed to him, inspecting it with disgust making its way slowly into his eyes“I love these.” He said trying to keep his composure.

Zemo clinked his glass with Sam’s, his gaze shifting back to the room. “Cheers, Conrad.” Sam chugged the drink down with one swift motion slightly making a face before nodding towards the bartender, his face neutral.

Before Sam could say anything, a man near the back of the bar stood up, a look of panic creeping into his face as he approached them. “I got word from on high. You ain’t welcome here.”

Zemo didn’t miss a beat. “I have no business with the Power Broker, but if he insists, he can either come and talk to me…”

The man sneered at Bucky, sizing him up. “New haircut?”

Zemo was unfazed. “Or bring Selby for a chat.”

Bucky couldn’t help but mutter slowly . “ Power broker? Really?”

Zemo gave him a hard glance. “Every kingdom needs its king. Let’s just pray we stay under his radar.”

Sam looked around. “Do you know him?”

Zemo shrugged. “Only by reputation. In Madripoor, he is judge, jury, and executioner.”

The tension was palpable as Zemo looked at Bucky. His voice dropped into a deadly calm. “(In Russian) Winter Soldier. Attack.”

Bucky’s body stiffened for a split second. The commands felt like a trigger, activating the soldier within him. Before he could process it fully, he lunged forward, engaging with the nearest target with ruthless precision.

Luna, sensing the shift, was quick to act. As Bucky delivered a crushing blow to one of the attackers, she was already moving. Her speed and grace were unmatched, her metal-clad boots barely making a sound on the floor as she slashed through another opponent, her dark mask only adding to her ghostly presence. The people around them faltered, eyes wide with fear, recognizing the two deadly figures now in their midst—the Winter Soldier and Nightshade.

The chaos erupted as Zemo calmly observed, making sure to stay in character. “Stay in character, or the whole bar turns on us,” he warned Sam coldly, his eyes scanning the room.

Zemo nodded approvingly as Bucky and Nightshade dispatched the remaining threats, fluid and efficient. “(In Russian) Well done, soldiers.”

The bartender, clearly shaken, gestured toward a back room. “Selby will see you now.”

The man they had just neutralized groaned in the corner, but Zemo was already moving forward, stepping past the wreckage they’d left behind.

“Thank you,” Zemo said with a curt nod, almost polite in his blood-soaked victory.

Sam looked at the carnage around them, then back at the woman and the man standing just behind him, her mask still concealing her emotions. “You good?” he asked, his voice low. “Fine” Bucky replied curtly, making his way in front of the group to keep up his act.

The woman gave no verbal response, only a sharp nod, as if the violence didn’t affect her at all.

The air was thick with anticipation. As they moved toward the back room, it was clear that this mission wasn’t just about finding Selby—it was about surviving Madripoor. And with Nightshade and the Winter Soldier by Zemo’s side, the people here would know fear like never before.

Dim neon lights flickered against the hazy air of Selby’s bar, casting sickly green and red hues across the grizzled patrons who turned their heads as the group entered. The bar was quiet, but not from peace—it was tension, thick and palpable. All eyes were on them. On the Winter Soldier. On Nightshade. Fear had a face here.

Zemo stepped forward calmly, his fur-collared coat gliding behind him like a king retaking his throne. Sam followed stiffly in his loud Smiling Tiger attire, already regretting the tight collar. Bucky walked silently beside them, his eyes discreetly watching every face in the room. And then there was Luna, her form wrapped in darkness.

People whispered. "Nightshade…"She was a myth in Madripoor—a specter of the Hydra legacy. And here she was, walking next to the Winter Soldier.

SELBY leaned back lazily in her plush chair, raising a brow as she took in the infamous group that has created such chaos in such a short time after their arrival."You should know, Baron. People don’t just come into my bar and make demands."

Zemo smiled with unbothered grace."Not a demand. An offer."Selby narrowed her eyes. Her smile was all teeth."A lot’s changed since you were here last. By the way, I thought you were rotting in a German prison. How’d you escape?"Zemo smirks, taking a sip of the drink he was offered."People like us always find a way, don’t we? And I suspect you already know why I’m here."

Selby let her gaze drift past Zemo—to Sam, to Bucky… then it settled on Luna. Her eyes widened with recognition, not of a stranger… but of a ghost. Selby speaks almost purring at the sight in front of her. "Well, well… I didn’t believe the rumors. The Nightshade in the flesh."She stands up walking closer to her. Selby reaches out her hand playing with the curls of Luna’s hand. Bucky and Sam stiffened at the sight.

“I didn’t think Nightshade was still walking the earth.” Selby whispered slowly.”You made quite the mess last time you were here.” She smirks her hand reaching towards Nightshade's mask. “Tell me—do you still bleed like the rest of us?”Luna’s eyes narrowed beneath before swiftly slapping her hand away. “ Only if I let them get close. And trust me you don’t want to know what that's like”

Selby smirked, her gaze shifting toward Bucky, who had turned toward Luna sharply. Something in his expression changed—confusion. Recognition. His posture stiffened as memories suddenly surged forward like gunfire—images of her beside him in Hydra missions, silent but deadly. Of Nightshade. He turned to fully face her.

"Wait…" Bucky murmured quietly

He stared. Really stared. "It was you." He whispered, his eyes slightly softening. Luna avoided his gaze, her shoulders tightening.Zemo, sensing the crack in Bucky’s focus, cut in smoothly—his tone manipulative, slicing into the moment like a scalpel."What’s the offer? You ask, Selby. Well…"

"Tell us what you know about the super-soldier serum… and I’ll give you her.”Zemo walks towards Luna slowly brushing his finger against Luna’s mask, her breath slightly hitching.”Code words included. She’ll do anything you want."

Bucky’s body tensed instantly, stepping forward instinctively, his jaw clenched.”What the hell are you doing?" Bucky whispered hissed out his voiced out his concerns quietly so Selby wouldn't hear it.

Luna flinched under her mask—but didn’t move. She knew the game. She had to play along. Selby laughed darkly."Now that’s the Zemo I remember. Cold. Calculated. Arrogant—but right to come to me." She leans forward in her seat interested in his offer."Yeah… the serum’s here in Madripoor. You’re looking for Dr. Wilfred Nagel. The Power Broker had him working on a new batch, but things got… messy." Sam perks up. "Is Nagel still here?"

"The breadcrumbs you can have for free, sweetheart. But the bakery? That’s gonna cost you. And trust me—without me, you’ll never find him."Suddenly, Sam’s phone began to vibrate in his jacket. He froze. Selbys voice grows cold as she glares at Sam "Answer it. On speaker."Reluctantly, Sam pulled it out. The call with his sister unfolded. Despite his best efforts, the final words slipped out.

"Okay, Sam. I’ll talk to you later."

Selby’s gaze darkened."Sam?"

The air in the room freezes

"Who’s Sam? KILL THEM!"

A gunshot cracked through the room—Selby dropped to the floor.

Chaos ensued.

Guards reached for weapons. Bucky dove forward, fists flying in controlled bursts of violence. Luna spun, a blur of movement as she slipped behind the first guard—one precise strike to the throat, then a brutal twist of the wrist, disarming another. She ducked and rolled, silent, surgical, ending every threat before they could even fire. Her blades gleamed briefly before being sheathed again."They’re gonna pin this on us!" Sam shouts out looking out for any more threats lurking. Zemo calmly sighs out.”We have a real problem now. Leave your weapons and follow my lead."

Their phones began chiming—a bounty was out. Every screen in the bar lit up with their faces.

"This is not good." Zemo says out looking around at the people looking at them hungryly

Gunshots erupted. Patrons turned hunters. The team split in different directions.The group starts sprinting down avoiding any gunshot they could. Luna and Sam nod before both sprint in different direction. Bucky following close behind Luna.

Bucky and Luna tore through the alley, breathing heavily. They stopped briefly behind a dumpster, Luna glancing down each end of the street. Bucky wasn’t looking at the road. He was looking at her."Tell me it’s not true." He pleaded quietly.

Luna didn’t answer."You were Nightshade. You were… with me. Back then. All those missions—why didn’t you say anything?"

She ripped the mask from her face, anger and pain flashing in her eyes. Her breath still laboured from the running. "Because you didn’t want to look back. You made it very clear you didn’t want to talk about the past, Bucky."

Bucky speaks quietly"I deserved to know."Luna laughs out her smile turning bitter."Why? So you could blame me too? I was a weapon. Like you. You think you cornered the market on trauma?"

"That’s not—"

"You know what? Forget it." She steps back, her back facing him, her body shaking ever so slightly."I’m just helping finish the mission, okay? After that, I’ll disappear again. You won’t have to deal with what I am."Her voice cracked with old wounds. She turned to leave.

"So for fuck’s sake, focus on the mission. Then I’ll be out of your way—for good."

She took a deep breath before sprinting out of the alley. Bucky stood frozen for a beat, jaw clenched, guilt sinking in. Then he took off after her.

Gunshots echoed. Zemo reappeared around a corner, brushing off his coat, with Sam limping behind."Heels. Bad idea. Never again." Zemo chuckles "You seem to have a guardian angel."

Luna and Bucky skidded to a stop, regrouping with them. Their eyes didn’t meet. The tension was sharp. Turning around the corner they run straight into a woman holding a gun on Zemo.

“Well this is perfect, drop the gun Zemo” Luna and Sam look at each other before Buckyspeaks up. “Sharon?”

“You cost me everything” Sharon grumbles, still pointing her gun at Zemo.”Sharon, wait. Someone recreated the super-soldier serum and Zemo had a lead.” Sam tries to explain the situation.

“That explains why you guys are here. And Selby’s dead.”

“So what are you doing here?”

“I stole Steve’s shield, remember? I also took the wings for your ass, so that you could save his ass from his ass. I didn’t have the Avengers to back me up. So I’m off the grid in Madripoor.” Sharon says sarcastically her eyes rolling at Buckies question

“Don’t blow smoke. I was on the run, too.”

“Was. Is. Big difference. I don’t speak to my family anymore. I can’t. My own father doesn’t know where I am.”

“Listen… Sharon, we need your help.” Bucky asks Sharon, making her chuckle.”Please.” He pleads.

Sharon's scoffs could be heard through the alley “This isn’t over.” She mumbles “ I have a place in High Town. You’ll be safe there for a while.”

INT. SHARON'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

The door to the ensuite bathroom creaked open with a soft sigh of release, and Luna stepped out, steam still swirling in the air around her like a ghostly veil. The warm mist clung to her skin, still heavy with the residue of tension and battles fought both outside and within. She inhaled deeply, finally feeling like she could breathe again. A sigh, long and heavy, escaped her lips—relief mingling with something darker she couldn’t quite shake.

The towel she had wrapped around her was worn and soft, threads unraveling from years of use, but it was all she had in the moment. She draped it over her body as she crossed the room, the cool air of the apartment rushing to meet her flushed skin. As her bare feet padded quietly on the polished floors, she cast a quick glance around, taking in Sharon’s lavishly decorated bedroom. The soft, muted tones of the room, the sleek modern furniture, and the large window overlooking the city’s skyline all felt a world apart from the chaos that had been following them.

Then her gaze fell upon the clothes that Sharon had set out for her—black, sleek, and effortlessly stylish. A sharp contrast to the weathered, utilitarian outfits she had worn for far too long. Sharon had been kind enough to offer her privacy, giving her this space to recover, to breathe, and to prepare for what lay ahead.

Luna's fingers brushed over the neatly folded items—black leggings, a fitted tank top, and, on top of it all, a jacket. The jacket. Her fingers lingered on the smooth, almost buttery leather of the sleeve before slipping into it with an almost painful ease. It felt right—almost too much so. It was black, with subtle hints of silver lining along the seams, a perfect balance between a soldier’s gear and someone trying to blend into the world they once left behind. She adjusted the collar, feeling the weight of it settle around her shoulders like a second skin, almost like she was back to where she used to be—before everything changed.

Her reflection in the mirror was striking. The jacket hugged her frame, the sleek leather catching the dim light of the room, adding a certain edge to her appearance. The deep, dark hue of the jacket contrasted sharply with her pale skin, her tousled dark hair still damp from the shower. Her eyes stared back at her, wide and haunted. But for the first time in what felt like forever, she didn’t feel like she was pretending anymore. She could almost let go of the weight of her past—the dark, twisted memories that had shaped her into something she never wanted to be. But the thoughts wouldn’t fade completely. They never did.

She looked at herself—really looked at herself—and the ache in her chest deepened. The face staring back at her wasn’t the same face she had worn on missions, on the run, on every damn assignment for Hydra. But it wasn’t quite the face of someone free either. She had become someone in between. Someone who didn’t know how to reconcile the woman she used to be with the woman she wanted to be now. And it felt like a battle she would never fully win.

“This is too unreal sometimes,” she muttered under her breath, the words escaping like a confession. The weight of the life she had left behind seemed to hang in the air, and for a moment, she wondered if she was really ready for what was next.

She sat down on the edge of the bed, her hands brushing against the soft sheets. The comfort of the bed should have felt soothing, but all she could focus on was the reflection in the mirror—the woman she had left behind, the woman Bucky had looked at with confusion in the alley, the woman who had once been lost to Hydra's grip. And now, that same woman was sitting on Sharon's bed, just trying to hold it together long enough to get through the mission.

“Was I too harsh?” she asked herself, her voice a whisper. The question echoed in her mind, replaying the words that had been exchanged in the alley with Bucky. The anger, the frustration, the way everything had spilled over the moment they were finally face to face. The way the truth had slipped out between them—unspoken but felt, the tension too thick to cut. Luna’s fingers ran through her hair, trying to tame both her wet locks and the mess of emotions running through her. She couldn’t let the past dictate her now—not when she was so close to finding the scientist. Not when Sharon had trusted her, and when Bucky... when Bucky still saw her as a soldier. But Luna knew she couldn’t keep pretending, couldn’t keep burying everything. It was catching up to her, and it wasn’t going away.

She shook the thoughts away as best as she could. Focus. Focus on the mission. That’s all that mattered. There would be time for everything else later.

With a deep, steadying breath, Luna stood up, forcing herself to center, pulling herself away from the mirror and the heavy thoughts. She dried her hair hastily with the towel, her fingers brushing through it as the damp strands stuck to her skin. A quick glance at her reflection before she turned and made her way toward the living room.

As she moved through the apartment, she couldn't help but admire Sharon’s sense of style—modern, sleek, and yet somehow welcoming. The furniture was a mix of contemporary design and cozy elegance, expensive without being ostentatious. The floors were polished wood, gleaming under the soft light of the room. It was all a stark contrast to the harshness of Luna’s life, to the hard, cold missions she had endured, and yet it felt oddly peaceful. A part of her yearned for this life—this softness—but she knew she couldn’t afford to think like that.

When she entered the living room, she found the others already there—Zemo, Sam, Sharon—sitting, talking, preparing for whatever was to come next. Sharon shot her a quick, understanding glance but said nothing as Luna crossed the room, the weight of her boots making a soft thud against the floor. The others had already fallen into their roles—Sam with his usual flair, Zemo exuding cool confidence, but Luna could see the way they glanced up at her. There was always a question in their eyes when they looked at her. What are you hiding, Luna? What’s your real story?

Luna sat down in the armchair across from them, her hands resting on her knees. She kept her gaze steady, ignoring the faint tremor of nerves creeping through her. There was no time for weakness now. Only forward.

Too focused on talking with Sharon about the intel gathering Luna didn't notice Bucky’s stare. He didn’t know how to feel. They knew each other for six years and yet not once did she ever tell him who she really was. Six fucking years. Bucky didn't know if he should laugh or cry because he finally found the person he’s been searching for ever since regaining every memory that HYDRA erased from him. He feels stupid not realising sooner. There were a lot of signs that now that he thinks back upon were very there. He shakes his head, making up his mind. He HAS to talk to her. Properly he wants to know the real Luna/ Technickly knowing her for 7 years already not counting the years they knew each other in HYDRA.

He didn’t know how to approach her. Probably the party would be the best bet. However her reactions were the thing holding her back. If he could drag her off and right here and now but looking at her now she was still recovering from pretending to be her old self. Hell even he was.

Sharon exhales. “Well, I sell to some pretty connected people. Lay low, blend in, enjoy the party. Try to stay outta trouble. I’ll see what I can find.” Everyone stands up Bucky finally coming back to the present. Before walking with the others to the main room where the party will be held.

Luna’s focus was entirely on Sharon, her attention fixed on the intel they were discussing. The hum of conversation, the flickering of Sharon’s sleek, modern living room lights, all seemed to fade into the background as Luna mentally mapped out the strategy for the upcoming party. She was trying to push everything else aside—the sting of the alley, the weight of Bucky’s gaze that she felt but dared not acknowledge.

She didn't notice Bucky’s stare.

But Bucky noticed her. Of course he did.

His eyes were locked on her, though he didn’t know how to feel anymore. Six years. Six years they’d known each other. The bonds forged in Hydra's hell, their shared escapes, the fleeting moments of camaraderie—they’d fought side by side, trusted each other, even in their most broken states. Yet never once had she told him who she really was. Not once.

Six fucking years.

The realization hit him harder than a punch to the gut. He felt a storm of emotions crash inside of him—confusion, betrayal, anger, but also something deeper. Something raw, something painful. She was the one person who had always been there, the only one who truly understood what it was like to be trapped, to have your identity stolen and your freedom erased. She had been his ally through it all. And yet, she—Luna—had kept the truth buried.

How could I not know? He couldn’t even begin to process it. He thought back to all the signs. All the small, fleeting moments he should have caught—like the way she moved, the sharpness in her eyes whenever anyone mentioned Hydra, the occasional slip in her speech, the quiet way she always avoided talking about her past. Why didn’t I see it sooner?

He felt stupid. So stupid.

Bucky’s mind spiraled, the weight of the years pressing down on him. His heart ached as the memories flooded back: the real Luna, the one he had fought beside in the shadows of Hydra’s control. The one who had been there, just as broken, just as lost as he had been. That Luna was still here, sitting across from him, but now… now she was different. He couldn’t explain it. She was wearing a new mask—one she’d crafted to protect herself from the world, and from him.

But she hadn’t fooled him completely. Not now. Not anymore.

He shook his head, trying to clear the fog from his thoughts. His chest tightened, a mix of hurt and frustration, and maybe even a flicker of understanding. There were still so many things he didn’t know. Why did she keep this from me?

He wanted answers. He needed to know the real Luna—the one he had known back then. The one who had shared those broken, fleeting moments of humanity with him. And yet, now... she was a stranger again, someone wrapped in layers of secrets.

“Focus, Barnes.” He muttered to himself, snapping out of the fog.

Focus on the mission, Bucky. There would be time to talk to her, to confront her—he had to talk to her, properly. But now, in the midst of all this chaos, wasn’t the right time. She was still recovering from pretending to be that person she wasn’t. He could see it in the way she moved, in the guarded way she looked at him, as if she were a half-step away from vanishing into thin air again.

Hell, even he was still recovering from the days when he, too, had to be someone else. A soldier. A weapon.

He wasn’t ready. Not yet.

Sharon exhaled slowly, breaking through the cloud of his thoughts. “Well, I sell to some pretty connected people. Lay low, blend in, enjoy the party. Try to stay outta trouble. I’ll see what I can find,” she said, her voice steady as always, the faintest edge of caution in her words. She was giving them the space they needed, but Bucky knew this wasn’t a game for any of them. The stakes were too high.

Luna’s voice was soft, a quiet acknowledgment to Sharon’s words, but Bucky’s attention was back on her now, more acutely than before. He noticed how she avoided his gaze, keeping her posture stiff, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. As if she were bracing for something to happen. Something she was already preparing for. Why can’t you just look at me, Luna?

He opened his mouth, but nothing came out. The words weren’t right, not yet. So instead, he did the only thing he could do in that moment—he stood up, pulling himself from the tangled web of his thoughts. The silence between them stretched, thick and heavy, but Bucky could feel the distance between them more than anything else.

Before he could think better of it, he walked toward the main room, toward where the others were already heading. Sharon was already at the door, and Luna—Luna was following, her every step like a shadow in the corner of his mind.

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