steve.

   The entity known as Ultron had been spawned out of Stark, so a wound to the ego would be the truest strike. There was going to be a mounted attack, large weaponry, larger threats, and all that set Steve on edge. Hehoped that wherever he’d settled as a base would be distant from any civilians. It seemed unlikely, given how dedicated he seemed to the concept of forced evolution.

   “Some are turned into machines in the pursuit of power. They can’t afford to feel pain, because that can end up as weakness.” Steve paused, a shake of his head enough to dismiss the train of thought. “I’d say we have a chance. More than a chance. He’s arrogant, and self-serving. That should be enough to blind him to the threat he’s faced with.” He offered a smile, though it felt strange framed by his words. He assured her they could murder someone, as if that should make her feel better.

   “You been in the field yet?”

Were they strong enough to fight such a menace? She was usually positive and idealistic, but right now, she didn’t know anymore. She’d been here for only a year. She had been impressed by how strong and dedicated her colleagues were, but this fight wouldn’t be about passion anymore. It would only be about survival.

❝ But he is so… intelligent. ❞ It was still a mystery to her ; how a machine could produce such advanced thoughts, such schemes. As Steve said, technology had allowed AIs to think by themselves - or almost. How could a mere human beat a thinking machine? Still, his smile was contagious. She couldn’t help but smile a little as well. She had read comics about him when she was a child. Heard stories of his selflessness and his courage. If he was assuring her they had a chance, then she would believe it.

His next question surprised him a little. ❝ You mean, since I joined the Avengers? ❞ She tilted her head. ❝ I have. Well- small missions. Nothing this… big. ❞ She sighed softly, finally parting her hands, and wrapping her arms around her stomach. ❝ But we’ll be okay. I can’t- I need to be here and to help you and the others as much as I can. It is my duty. To serve and… to protect. ❞