Chapter Fourteen

Summary: Set after Avengers: Endgame.
Warning(s): Explicit. Disciplinary and erotic spanking; Heavy Domination/submission; sexual situations; dub/non-con (consent after the fact); violence and mentions of violence; AU

###

The next morning, Namor woke up fairly early and quickly dressed. He sent a coded message to Jack, Blade and M'Baku, curious about how the meeting with the resistance had gone for Jack the night before. He then left the base for a 'morning walk'.

Blade had woken up fairly early as well, seeing Kate and Spiders returning from their hunt. Kate was covered in blood and was dancing around Spiders like a toddler on a sugar rush. He wasn't in the mood to deal with her kind of crazy, so had hidden until they'd both disappeared into their rooms... Just in time to get Namor's message. He left for his own walk, circling slowly around to their meeting point.

 Jack had woken up fully rested and feeling safe and loved, due to his master mentally holding him all night. He cleaned up and dressed, before heading out to meet the others. Good morning, master. I'm meeting with my three colleagues. Is there anything I should find out for you?

I don't think there's anything specific I need to know, Fury answered. But keep the link open between us, just in case. His feelings were of warmth and love.

M'Baku made sure to leave after the others, circling round the base as if exploring before he headed to the clearing, where Namor was sitting on a log, waiting.

Blade arrived at the same time as M'Baku. "Sorry. Had to wait for Katie-bell and her escort to go to their rooms before I could leave..." he muttered.

Jack arrived and sat as Blade was complaining about their vampire colleague. "Her escort?" he asked curiously. When he'd left her last night, she'd been alone. He worried slightly that maybe she'd taken her 'toy' out and either turned him, or made a meal of him, with Spiders cleaning up her mess. It wouldn't be the first time the quiet being had cleaned up after her when she'd accidentally drunk too much from her meal.

"They didn't see you?" Namor asked Blade. It was an unnecessary question, but it was important that they know if any of the others were suspicious.

"She was too busy dancing around him like an excited monkey to notice me..." Blade snorted. "I honestly don't know what our great overseer was thinking, bringing her into the group. She's too chaotic to be of any help to anyone. I guess that's in our favor, though..." He sighed.

Jack wrinkled his nose. "She found me last night when I was returning. Pretty sure she didn't see anything. At least, she didn't act like she'd seen anything.  I don't know if she's capable of subterfuge or not, though...."

"I think she's maybe more capable than she seems. She dragged Gwen into my room the other night and tried to seduce me. I'm not entirely sure it wasn't just to amuse Gwen." Namor sighed and turned to Jack. "You found them?"

"I did. They took me back to their base. We weren't wrong about them using portals..." Jack said quietly; in case they'd been followed, despite their best efforts. "I think if we want to work with them, it is our best chance of success..."  He didn't tell them he had bonded to Fury. If they decided working with the others was too big a risk, he wasn't going to put his mate into danger.

Blade nodded. "If we got some of the prisoners to them... made it look like we'd taken them out for some fun and games and then disposed of the bodies... it could possibly build more of a bridge between our groups."

"Only problem is, none of us have set ourselves up to enjoy those types of fun and games," M'Baku said. "If we were to suddenly change, it could draw suspicion."

Can you get to the cells? Find out who's left? Fury's mental voice was worried. Had the vampire and Spiders taken a prisoner? Spiders alone would have taken someone close to death, but he didn't know about Kate.

"We could always use Kate. Convince her to play those fun and games and then distract her while the prisoner gets away..." Blade shrugged.

"We probably can't do that very much," Namor said. "Even she's likely to get suspicious if her prisoners keep escaping."

"Maybe do it for the ones that are most likely to be killed if we don't get them out soon..." Jack suggested. I will visit the cells as soon as I return, he thought, surprised that Fury was able to see everything he heard and saw without him having to relay it first. I didn't know the bond let you do that... he thought, with a bit of relief. It was easier if Fury saw everything, so he didn't have to figure out what was important to share or not.

I asked you to keep the bond open between us, Fury replied. Perhaps that has something to do with it.

Maybe. It's useful, though. Feels safer, Jack admitted. How much should I tell them about us?

"Since your experience was useful... Maybe we can set up some way to communicate to continue working with them..." Blade suggested.

Hearing the comment, Fury spoke to Steve and Tony, who were in the infirmary with him, and then addressed his mate. Steve and Tony agree that you should tell them the situation. You all know of our existence anyway.

Jack swallowed. Yessir. He took a deep breath; he was trusting these men with his life, and the lives of every other person on the base with this information. If Ultimus found out how people were breaking free.... Smiling at Blade, he said, "There's no need to set up a way to contact them. I am in direct communication with them any time I need. I... I'm bonded to one of them. It's very useful."

"What do you mean, bonded?" M'Baku asked.

"As in, I had the best sex of my life last night and now I can talk to my lover mentally. And apparently over distance. He can hear and see everything I do, as long as I keep the bond open, so if you want to talk to any of them... As long as it's just us four, I can relay the conversations...." Jack shrugged and gave a crooked grin.

"Thought you seemed extremely relaxed, for once," Blade muttered.

"You just...had sex with a member of the resistance? Who did you meet to make you immediately jump into bed with him?" Namor asked.

"What else does this bond do?" M'Baku was clearly interested.

"It... The bond is formed by sex. It not only enables mental connection and communication, it ensures Ultimus will never be able to get into my head and control me. That's what convinced me to mate with a near stranger. Although... As it was the man I acted to save the life of, there was a bit of an emotional tie." Jack shrugged.

"You seem perfectly happy with the bonding," M'Baku observed.

"It had the unexpected bonus of making the wolf happy. I wasn't expecting that, but I feel so much calmer and in control of the wolf now that... now that Fury is in control of me..." Jack rubbed the back of his neck. He hadn't been sure admitting that he was the sub in the relationship should be admitted, but they would find out eventually.

"Is that what the bonding needs?" Namor asked. "One to be in charge and the other submitting?"

"Is everyone in the resistance bonded?" M'Baku voiced his own question.

Jack nodded. "From the way it was explained to me, that is what is needed to form the bond. Afterwards, the bond adjusts to the personalities of those in the relationship. So it might not stay with one in charge and one following and might turn into a more equal bond." He glanced at M'Baku. "Everyone who is an adult."

"Well. That is helpful to know," Namor commented. "And having a full line of communication to them is also helpful. It'll be easier to prepare." He paused. "Is there anything else?"

"I don't think so?" Jack said hesitantly. ",If there is, Fury can relay it to me at any time, so...."

Blade nodded. "Very useful."

"All right. Is there anything else we need to cover before we go back?" Namor looked around at the others.

"Do we want the rest of you to meet them...? Or is my connection enough for now?" Jack asked.

"I think it's not necessary for any physical meetings to take place," Namor answered. "We'll be less likely to draw attention to ourselves if we don't need to have face to face meetings."

Jack nodded. "So we just need to communicate through me. Share plans and news. I've been asked to check on the prisoners, so they have an idea of who they need to look for if necessary."

"Do you need anyone to run interference?" M'Baku asked.

"No. We just have to be careful when we are meeting each other to give information. Otherwise, I can just behave as normal. Fury will see and hear through me." Jack smiled.

Namor nodded. "Then we'll return to the base." He stood and began checking to ensure no signs of their presence would be left.

M'Baku was the first to leave, moving carefully away from the clearing and circling as if he was coming from a different direction.

Blade left in the other direction, doing the same.

Namor waited for the others to leave and then began to head back to the base as well, walking slower than he normally would to ensure he'd reach it after the others got there.

Jack made his own way back toward the base, making certain to arrive from a completely direction and at a different time. He made his way down into the cells where the prisoners were, so he could let Fury see.

Rhodey noticed the man who had taken Fury, along with the sadistic femme fatale, and couldn't help but tense up. Was he here to take another one? Rhodey hadn't been able to talk them out of taking Fury, but he was going to do his best to make sure no one else was taken on his watch.

Jack looked around the cell, making sure to look at each prisoner closely, so that his mate could relay their condition to their doctors. If any of them looked in need of immediate help, he'd figure out a way to take them out of the cell and make them 'disappear'.

As Jack allowed him to look through his eyes, Fury reported on the conditions of the prisoners to Stephen, Lincoln and Bruce. One or two looked like they might not be able to survive even an immediate rescue, their bodies having succumbed to the diseases that had ravaged them even before Ultimus had invaded.

If I can get them out... Should I try, sir? Jack asked about those who looked worst.

If you can do so safely, Fury replied.

I won't know until it is actually happening. Be prepared to get a portal open at our spot when I let you know, Jack thought.

We'll be ready, Fury promised.

Jack looked at Rhodey, giving a very faint nod but not saying anything. He then turned and left.

"What was that all about?" Maria asked suspiciously.

Rhodey frowned. "I don't know. But he was looking at everyone in a strange way."

"Something weirder than the weird we've been seeing is happening," Happy muttered.

"It remains to be seen whether we're looking at a good weird or not." Rhodey sighed. "I'd say we're about due for some good luck."

***

Spiders had taken advantage of Gwen heading out to bother Mordo to slip into her room and take care of a couple of things. After feeding Harley, he released one of his spiders, directing it to run up the wall and hide in the shadows above the bed, outside of Gwen's view...but where it could clearly see everything.

 Harley shifted slightly and watched the spider move into position. "You're keeping an eye on me?"

"If you need my help, I'll know. The spiders are always connected to me. I can see through their eyes." Spiders carefully tied Harley up, so that no sign of his presence would be left. Then, he slipped out of the room, carefully closing the door behind him and making sure the lock fell back into place.

When Spiders left the room, Kate was leaning casually against the wall next to the door, obviously keeping watch for him. "Everything okay?" she asked quietly.

"Gwen doesn't feed her toys. If you don't feed humans, they'll die. And when her toy dies, she'll make things difficult." Spiders was probably closest to Kate than he was to anyone...but he wasn't going to tell her that he was trying to keep Harley's strength up because he figured the resistance would hit the base. That he'd left a scout behind so that, if Gwen got bored of Harley before the young man could be rescued, Spiders would know...and he would make sure she couldn't kill him.

The only one who might have any understanding was Jack, judging by what his scout had heard in the resistance's base. But Spiders didn't think the wolf would see him as an ally. Better to let them keep thinking he was on Ultimus' side. He had no illusions. As soon as he turned on them, he would die.

Just as long as he could keep at least one person safe....

Kate nodded. "I always feed my toy good. He can't feed me, if I don't. Even if I don't find it fun to feed from him anymore..." She sighed. "Tony and Pepper have called another meeting."

Spiders nodded. "The war room?" He began walking in that direction.

"Where else? They have no imagination...." Kate snorted.

"Don't let them hear you say that." Spiders slipped into the war room.

Gwen was already there, lounging in one of the chairs, idly painting her nails a bright, blood red colour.

Kate gave Spiders an unrepentant grin as she flounced over and plopped down next to Gwen. "Oooh. Do me!" She wiggled her fingers under Gwen's nose.

"Sure. What colour?" Gwen took out her makeup bag and began rifling through it, giving Spiders an arch look. "It's a pity you don't have hands. Or a face. Some colour would really suit you."

Spiders ignored her as Mordo stepped into the war room.

"Black..." Kate purred happily, pretty much ignoring the rest of the room.

Jack slunk in and sat in his usual spot, noting that Blade had already done the same.

Pepper stood at the head of the table, an irritable look on his face.

Tony stood beside her, sadistic amusement on his face.

Gwen began to paint Kate's nails black as Namor walked into the war room, M'Baku following behind.

Fury, looking through Jack's eyes, immediately took note of the look on the bad Tony's and Pepper's faces.

Once everyone was there, Pepper began the meeting. "Our little demonstration didn't quite produce the results we were hoping for. By the time Tuesday got a lock on their signatures, they'd disappeared already. This does confirm they are using portals, but sadly, that is not something we didn't already know. It doesn't help us know where they are going." Pepper was frustrated, but there was obviously something else agitating her.

"We already know there are at least three sorcerers working with them, from what Ultimus has told us already," Mordo said. "But at least we now have confirmation."

"So what's our new plan?" Gwen asked, not looking up from painting Katie's nails.

"Tuesday is watching. Now that we have their 'signatures', she can alert us whenever they show up in the towns where we have a presence. Send the soldiers after them." Pepper waved a hand in dismissal. "Which brings me to our second item. Stop hunting the HYDRA soldiers! Ultimus is already upset at losing those he was controlling. Losing those who are willing followers is angering him further!"

"There's no sport in feeding on the prisoners," Spiders said. "They can't run. And they've already been broken. Ultimus brought us here to help him. Surely he wouldn't begrudge us having a little sport." His voice was as dry and whispery as ever. But his words were carefully chosen to reach Kate.

Ultimus might not be happy about them hunting HYDRA, but like Pepper said. He'd already lost too many converted. He was unlikely to kill either of them for stepping out of line.

Spiders doesn't kill for sport or to sow fear. Fury's musing sounded clear in Jack's mind, even as he relayed what was being said to those with him.

"Feeding off the prisoners is no fun, anyway, if they don't even have a chance to get away...!" Kate agreed with Spiders assessment. "If you are going to insist I stick to them for my meals, I am going to insist I be allowed to let them loose so I can chase them." She pouted.

Spiders didn't add anything to that. Kate had done enough on her own. If he voiced an agreement with her, it would look more suspicious. So he kept quiet and hoped he'd done enough to protect those who were left.

Gwen finished painting Katie's nails and then waved her bag. "Anyone else? Jack?" She gave him an arch look.

"No thank you..." Jack snorted and shook his head.

Pepper gave Kate a thin lipped smile. "Fine. As long as you stop irritating Ultimus by eating his henchmen. Next time you feel the need to hunt, you can pick a prisoner to release and hunt them."

Tony clapped his hands together. "Anything else we should know about?" He glanced around at everyone.

"Nothing new to report," M'Baku said mildly. He stood to leave, noticing the others doing the same.

Kate stood and admired her fingernails. "Thank you, Gwennie!" she enthused.

Jack stood and left too. If Kate decides to 'hunt' someone, I'll do my best to keep her from finding them, so you can rescue them, he thought.

We'll be on standby, Fury replied.

Spiders walked out of the war room, his head lowered.

It was daytime, so Kate went to rest for the period of time she couldn't be outside.

Jack went about his normal activities.

***

Since the meeting with those working willingly with Ultimus seemed to be over, Fury stopped being so focused on the bond...though he kept it open between him and Jack, in case his bond mate needed to reach him again. "It looks like the meeting is over."

"I think we need to make sure we're set up for dealing with potentially any injuries. We have blood samples from everyone here. Are there any universal donors?" Steve asked Stephen and Lincoln. "Jack and the others might not be able to stop the vampire from fully harming one of the prisoners."

Pete nodded. "There are a few universal donors. We've typed everyone, so we know who can fit with who of our group. We can type anyone new as soon as possible, if we need."

"Other than that, it sounds like they have an AI able to track our portals." Steve looked towards Tony. "Do you think we could confuse this Tuesday, Tony? Have multiple portals opened in a short space of time, so that it's impossible to pinpoint an exact location?"

"I don't see why not... Friday? What do you think?" Tony asked

"She is still young, so I think it is possible. At least for a short time." The AI sounded smug.

Steve nodded and turned to Stephen. "Do you think you could do that? You, Wong and Mordo? Open multiple portals in different locations at the same time as the one to retrieve the prisoner Jack can hopefully get from the vampire?"

"I don't see why not. Have the speedsters take us away from the base in various directions. We open the portals together. Close them together. Then get picked up by the speedsters again." Stephen shrugged.

"Make sure that one of the tribonds is with each wizard and you can coordinate the time a lot better," Tony added.

"Jack will tell me if and when Kate decides to hunt one of the prisoners, so we'll have warning, at least," Fury said.

Stephen nodded. "Hopefully, we can help them before she gets them."

"It sounds like we might be able to count on help from Jack, Namor and the others, so long as they can safely do so without blowing their covers," Coulson commented. "Even if all they do is distract the vampire, it should at least give us an edge."

Stephen nodded. "Exactly."

"The other issue we might have is that we might be trying to save more than one person, if the others want to hunt as well." Steve looked at Tony. "I don't get the impression that your and Pepper's counterparts really care about hunting or torturing the prisoners, even if they were the ones who gave the order for Fury to be killed. But even if we take them out of the picture, we know that Gwen enjoys hurting and torturing people. And Spiders clearly needs to feed, even if it looks like he's controlling it enough to only take those who are close to death already. And we don't know enough about Mordo's counterpart."

"My guess is as long as it doesn't interfere with their own plans, my counterpart doesn't give a flying fuck what happens to the prisoners..." Tony said quietly. "Whatever happened to make me... That way. I'm really glad it didn't happen here to me...."

"That's why it is so important we have Jack, though..." Pepper said.

Steve nodded. "We might have to consider needing to rescue more than one prisoner at the same time, in any case. We need to be prepared, because we might not get a lot of notice."

"So now we just hurry up and wait..." Grant snorted.

"I don't think we have any other choice." Steve sighed and looked towards Pete. "Did you find anything new about the spider?" He knew Peter was still in the labs, studying the scout, but just in case they had figured anything else out....

"Nothing new, yet." Pete sighed. "Least not that I know of." He'd wanted to go join Peter in the lab, but Ikaris had decided he needed a break.

Steve nodded and looked around at the others in the room. "Is there anything else we need to talk about before we start making preparations for the next update from Jack?"

The others all looked around before Stephen shrugged. "I can't think of anything. Until something more actually happens, I suggest we continue on as we have been. Less likely to make them suspicious."

Steve nodded and turned to Fury. "We'll let you get some rest," he said, concern for the Director clear in his tone.

"I'll let you know when I hear anything," Fury promised. He was recovering well, but still wasn't at full health. He was resigned to the fact that he couldn't yet help out physically and could only watch from the sidelines. It was hard, but he also knew it was necessary.

"Let me help you..." Lincoln offered. As he walked Fury back to his room, he asked curiously, "Have you noticed a difference in your healing abilities?"

"Not a specific difference," Fury replied. "I think the injuries aren't paining me as much as I would expect them to be, but without examining each of them, I'm not sure if anything's changed."

"Try and keep track of any differences you notice. We've... we've come to believe that those who are bonded begin to share traits and abilities after a bit. Given Jack is a werewolf and seems to have a heightened ability to heal.... Well, it might help confirm our theory." Lincoln smiled.

Fury nodded. "Back before Ultimus invaded, back when HYDRA made its move in the first place, I was attacked by one of their soldiers and ended up with broken bones and nearly dead. The injuries aren't the same, but comparing the rate of healing then to now, there does seem to be a faster rate of recovery."

"Good to know. I'll let the others know, so they can add that information to our known data." Lincoln stopped at Fury's door, to let him have some privacy. "If you need anything... just have Friday get one of us."

"I will," Fury promised. He moved into his room and stretched out on the bed. Closing his eyes, he sent a message to his bond mate. I'm going to be resting, but I'll still leave the bond open. If you need to reach me, I'll hear you, he promised Jack.

Yessir. Jack immediately responded. I do not have anything that I've been ordered to do at the moment and Kate is resting due to it being day, so I feel safe in not watching her so closely. I think I will rest a bit as well.

In response, Fury allowed himself to wrap a mental embrace around his bond mate. Even if they couldn't touch physically, there was no reason not to mentally embrace if they were both going to be resting.

By this point, Jack was in his own room, and lay down so he could send his own mental embrace back, 'cuddling' with his master. The wolf chuffed softly in the background, happy.

As he had the night before, Fury sent through mental caresses down his bond mate's spine, stroking firmly and possessively.

Jack sent back his own mental caresses; more submissive, but still just as possessive. To his amusement, he was quickly aroused just from the mental stimulation his master was providing. Wish I knew how to teleport. I'd teleport to you so you could pound me into the mattress... he thought impishly.

Fury sent a gentle pressure against his mate's neck; a possssive kiss just over his pulse point. When you're with me for good, I'll pound you into the mattress, he promised, stroking a bit more firmly with the 'petting'.

Jack settled in for the petting and to caress his master back.

***

Kate lay in her bed, staring at the ceiling. She wished sometimes that she hadn't been turned. She missed the sunshine.

Who was she kidding? She wished it all the time. She knew she wasn't right in the head and she knew that was because of what had been done to her prior to her being turned. Her sire was cruel and sadistic, and he'd made certain that she knew her place in the world before he'd finally drained her. She was positive the only reason he'd brought her back as his chyld was because he didn't want to stop toying with her. The only good thing about Ultimus was that her sire was in the other dimension and she didn't have to put up with him.

***

"Don't worry. This isn't going to hurt."

Harley eyed the dripping candle Gwen was holding with trepidation. She'd returned from the meeting and set to painting his nails, which was...weird, but it wasn't painful. And he figured that if he fought her, she'd tire of him quickly. Her toys didn't return and he knew that meant she killed them.

The only thing that gave him even a tiny bit of hope was that Spiders' scout was still lurking in the shadows of the ceiling. When Gwen wasn't there, the spider had danced in front of his eyes...weaving webs made out of pretty patterns, until Gwen's footsteps had been heard and the webbing had been cleared up while the spider returned to its position.

Enjoying the hint of fear in Harley's eyes, Gwen carefully dripped the hot wax onto his chest, her smile growing at the whimper that escaped his lips. The next drop of hot wax fell onto one of his nipples and his body jerked, responding to the stimulus against his will.

***

Kate's hearing was very good. And her room was next to Gwen's. She could tell Gwen was playing with her toy. Once upon a time, she might have pretended amusement at the woman's antics. Gwen had been the only one to accept her own uniqueness and treated her like a person and she'd liked that feeling of acceptance. But the more she watched Gwen and how she treated her toys, the more she was reminded of how her sire had treated her and the comparison did nothing for her mental health. Which even she knew was precarious at best. She looked at Scott.  "Did you have a family? Before Ultimus?" she found herself asking softly.

Scott blinked at her and shifted. She had him tied to the bed, but it was comfortably done, so he could move and avoid sore spots. She'd brought him breakfast. And she'd avoided touching him more than necessary to feed, since her realization that he wasn't truly consenting to her arousing him. And she fed from his wrist. It was the least personal place she could feed from and still feed. He couldn't help being suspicious of the change in attitude from her, but as things were going well, he decided it was better to cooperate with her and not push her into returning to her prior actions. "I did... do. My daughter Cassie would be close to your age; well... what your age appears to be, anyway. And I have a fiance. Her father and mother are like parents to me. I don't know if Ultimus let them live or not..." His voice trailed off and he sounded sad.

Kate nodded. Maybe she'd mention to Jack and Spiders. See if they could find anything out for him. She found she wanted to do something nice for him, without any expectations of getting something back in return.  Quietly, she took the empty plate from him to take back to the kitchen, then brought him a tablet. "You can watch videos, or listen to music or play games..." she offered, handing him the tablet before leaving the room with the dishes.

***

Harley's whimper was longer and more drawn out when Gwen flicked her tongue over the wax she'd spilled on his chest and then engulfed his nipple into her mouth, beginning to suck, turning it a hard, tender red. He wanted to cry...but when she saw tears, she grew angry and irritatated and hurt him. He tipped his head back, eyes looking towards the shadowed corner...though he kept his eyes unfocused enough that it wouldn't be obvious he was looking for something in the room. He could just about make out the spider's body and he focused on it; on the fact that someone wanted to see him safe, instead of what was being done to his body.

***

Spiders had a headache. Which actually shouldn't be possible, considering he didn't have a head. Or true arms or legs. No body other than the spiders that made up a vague approximation of a humanoid form.

But he was hurting where he would have had a head, had he been human. Normally, his scouts didn't do anything other than watch. Now, though, he felt like he was being pulled in three different directions. He was trying to keep watch over Harley, so that he'd know if Gwen grew tired of him. If she acted, he would act in return. He would kill her before he let her kill Harley.

And in the base, one of the Peter Parkers had got it into his head that the scout spider could actually understand him and was talking to him. Like he was a human still. Like he was a person. And it was making Spiders long for and want things that he could never have again. He had no family, he had no friends, he had no one who didn't fear or hate him, but....

The Peter Parker was talking again. Discussing magic this time. And Gwen was sexually assaulting Harley. And there was nothing Spiders could do about it.

***

Kate wandered to the door to Gwen's room, hesitating, before knocking. Gwen might be irritated at being interrupted. But Kate wasn't known for understanding boundaries, so she wouldn't suspect anything by Kate being there. Having realized what she was doing to Scott had been unwelcome, she couldn't help but notice that Gwen was doing unwanted things to Harley and now she needed to stop it. It reminded her too much of her sire.

Gwen released Harley's other nipple and a small pout came across her face at the interruption. Lazily trailing her fingers over his chest, she stood up and walked over to the door, pulling it open. "Did you change your mind about feeding?"

The spider scout moved to get a better glimpse of the doorway, still remaining in shadows.

Spiders' own body became very still and very focused, where he was. He was preparing to act, if it was necessary. It would blow his own cover...it would reveal that he was a traitor to everyone else. But if Gwen and Kate were going to kill Harley....

Kate blinked. "What? No..." she said, confused, before bouncing in place, thinking quickly. "I want to go outside and see the sun and feel the warm breeze. Can you help me do that without my burning up?"

"Sure. I've got a coat and hood. It'll protect your skin. Plus, we can stand in the shade." Gwen disappeared into her room, returning a few moments later with the promised items. She handed them to Kate and locked her door.

"Thanks, Gwennie!" Kate grinned happily, putting on the coat and hood and walking with her friend toward the exit. Some small part of her thought she should be careful; as much as she had fun with Gwen and was friendly, she had no doubt the woman would kill her if it gave her something she wanted, or even entertained her, but she liked to live dangerously. Another thing her sire had 'taught' her.

Gwen grinned as she walked with Kate to the exit. "What do you think about breaking into Namor's room again tonight?" she asked. "I think we could actually get him to do something. Instead of, you know, just throwing us out."

***

Spiders didn't really relax when Gwen and Kate left the base. Being in the position of having to decide whether he was going to need to kill one or both of them if they threatened Harley, he realised...he didn't have a plan for getting the boy out. He needed to allow for the worst happening and him dying before he could free Harley. And if he died before Harley could get away, it would all be for naught.

He knew Jack had made contact with the resistance. He knew that the wolf was working with them...had bonded to one of them, whatever that meant. But from what he'd overheard, they were in regular contact. And Jack hadn't killed Fury, which meant that he probably didn't want to kill any of the prisoners and maybe even intended to help them.

Spiders was walking to the exit on the other side of the base as he thought. He had his own private area, somewhere that was calm and peaceful, that he'd kept secret from everyone who followed Ultimus. It was there he headed, as he released one of his scouts and sent it towards Jack's room.

Carefully making sure it wouldn't be seen by anyone, the spider scuttled under Jack's door and positioned itself exactly where the wolf would be sure to see it as soon as he woke up.

Jack could feel a presence in his room, even asleep, and he blinked awake shortly after Spiders scout entered. He looked toward it. "Does Spiders need me?" he asked softly, so that his voice wouldn't carry outside the room. He carefully stood up. "Lead me to him." He followed the spider.

The spider scuttled from the room, pausing periodically to make sure that Jack was still following it...and also making sure it kept out of view of anyone else around. It led Jack outside the base, towards a forest that was some distance from the base.

Jack followed the spider through the forest. As soon as he was to the clearing, he looked around for Spiders.

Spiders had stayed hidden in the shadows until Jack reached the clearing and then he stepped slowly into view, reaching down so that the spider could scuttle back under his suit. "You didn't hesitate to come." There was a hint of a question in his voice. For all Jack knew, Spiders could have been getting him to leave the base for a nefarious reason.

Now that he thought about it, that wasn't too far from the truth.

Jack shrugged. "I've been watching. You aren't like the others. You only kill when you have to. You try to help, even if it is in a way no one realizes that's what you are doing. And I know you have a spy in places that know what I'm up to. Taking a chance seems more advantageous than pulling back in distrust." He slanted his head. "You need my help with something...."

"I have a scout in Gwen's room," Spiders said. "For when she gets tired of her prisoner." He hesitated. "I know where you've been," he admitted. "I can stop Gwen from killing, but...I likely won't survive the encounter. Someone needs to get him to safety."

Jack nodded. "I'll do my best. If it is necessary, just let me know when. I'll get him out and hopefully, my mate will get him to safety."

"It'll be easier to let you know if you take one of my scouts with you," Spiders said.

Jack nodded. "If that doesn't make things more difficult for you. You know... you could always recall the one that is at the base. Since I'm connected there, if they start hassling you for info, I can have Fury give me something that won't be dangerous, but will get them off your back."

"I convinced them that the only way I can get that information is by having my scout rejoin the rest of the horde," Spiders answered. "The only ones now aware of the truth are those who you tell at the resistance."

Jack nodded. "In that case... I'll wait to hear from you about Harley."

Spiders didn't say anything, but the scout he'd sent to Jack's room scuttled back out from his sleeve and over to sit by the wolf's feet.

Jack reached down, so the spider could get on his hand. It could find a safe spot to hide on his body. When Spiders needed to let him know it was time, the spider would be with him.

Spiders waited until his scout was hidden on Jack's body before saying, "I will let you know." He turned to leave.

Jack nodded and headed in the opposite direction.

Blade was sitting outside, watching everything. He didn't particularly want to be inside where Pepper and Tony were, in case they decided they needed him to do something. He'd noticed when kate and Gwen took off, Kate bundled up like it was winter. He'd also seen Spiders and Jack leave. He trusted Jack. He wasn't certain about Spiders, but he somehow sensed that the other being wasn't that bad.

It was tempting to stay outside, where it was...well, if not exactly calm, at least peaceful. But Spiders needed to make sure he didn't do anything to draw unwanted attention to himself. He'd just declared to Jack which side he was on, but that made his position here even more dangerous. And now he had three scouts in different locations, but the one with Jack would hopefully not need to do much until the time was right.

Spiders began walking back to the base, catching sight of Blade at his peripheral vision as he left the forest.

Blade nodded silently at Spiders, but didn't act suspicious. If the other wanted to form an alliance with him, he'd make a move. But Blade wouldn't push.

Spiders paused, a little, in surprise at the acknowledgement. Apart from Kate, most of the others didn't try to interact with him or acknowledge him. It wasn't that he blamed them, really. They'd seen what was under his suit. Even Jack, though cordial enough, hadn't shown any kind of attempt to reach out or anything. Except he had been watching, apparently.

Kate did as well. She knew that Spiders had been taking care of Harley. Did that mean others knew as well? He'd just formed an alliance with Jack...should he form an alliance with another person as well? If he didn't, would that mean Harley was in even more danger?

Feeling this uncertain...this worried...wasn't usual for him. Every day, he was feeling like he was trying to reach more and more for his humanity...only to have it slip through his fingers. He didn't even know what he'd looked like as a human anymore.

When Spiders was close enough to speak without the whole base hearing, Blade said in a soft drawl, "Trusting Jack is a good idea. He's one of the best men I know. Doesn't let his condition determine his actions for him. Kinda like you."

Spiders paused at the words. For a few moments, it seemed like he wasn't going to respond at all. When he finally did, his voice was resigned. "No matter what I do, I'm beyond redemption." Even if he survived the destruction of this base, he couldn't continue living. He couldn't stop the need to consume human flesh.

Blade shrugged. "If I believed that, half the people I know would be dead."

Spiders glanced away. "I'm not even human anymore." He hadn't intended to say that; hadn't intended to continue a conversation. He could place the blame on the more recent events that were making him remember what it had been to be human.

"Some humans aren't human..." Blade shrugged, thinking of Gwen, Pepper and Tony.

There wasn't much Spiders could say to that. Some of those in the base had no qualms about killing people if it fit their plans...and others seemed to enjoy causing pain or suffering. It didn't make sense to him, but then again, he felt entirely separated from humans now anyway. "Are you Jack's ally?" he asked. If that was the case, maybe Blade would help Jack get Harley to safety.

"I am. I can be yours as well..." Blade said calmly.

Spiders hesitated. "I asked him to help at a certain time. To help get someone out when I let him know." His voice was very soft.

Blade nodded. "I'll do whatever I can to help as well."

"Thank you." Spiders paused. "If you...need my help. I will offer it."

"To be honest, I'm just glad I won't be fighting you when the time comes..." Blade said softly, in case anyone was eavesdropping.

"I won't fight against you." Spiders' voice was very soft. Of course, chances were good that after he made his move, he wouldn't be doing anything after that. But that was why he was making sure Harley had the best chance of escape.

"We need to be ready. Things are moving slowly, but they could fall at any moment..." Blade murmured.

"I'm always ready." Spiders rarely, if ever, slept. When things changed, he'd be prepared.

"Good..." Blade nodded, then looked forward again. It wouldn't do to spend too much time talking, or someone might notice.

Spiders didn't linger, instead walking back into the base.

***

"What can we do to get Namor's attention?" Kate asked skeptically. "It could be a lot of fun. And if he actually took us up on our offers, I wouldn't be upset in the least. Just not sure what, exactly, would get his attention."

"I'm thinking wearing him down." Gwen shrugged. "Some people can't resist two women. I know what he said, but I think he was just pretending that he's not attracted to either of us."

Kate grinned. "I hope we can wear him down..." she admitted. Despite his apparent dislike of her and Gwen, Kate liked Namor.

"I'm sure we can." Gwen nudged her gently. "Who wouldn't want to be propositioned by two gorgous women?"

"You, maybe...." Kate sighed. "I think he thinks I'm little better than a corpse." For the first time, she allowed Gwen to see a little of her insecurity. It was possible the other woman would use it against her. But even so, it gave Harley a little more time away from Gwen's torments. So it was worth it.

Gwen reached out and gently wound a lock of Kate's hair around her finger. "Well, we'll just have to show him you're not," she said mischievously.

Kate slanted her head as Gwen played with her hair. "Thank you, Gwennie. This is gonna be so much fun!" She bounced in place, before impulsively leaning forward and kissing Gwen.

Smiling against Kate's lips, Gwen pressed into the kiss, allowing her hands to slide over the vampire's body.

Kate wiggled closer, continuing to kiss. Yeah, they were going to seduce Namor later. But no reason she couldn't have some fun now. Besides... if she tired Gwen out, maybe the woman would leave Harley alone.

***

After Jack checked in with him, Fury addressed Friday. "Could you ask Steve and Tony to come here, please?"

"Of course, Director." The AI passed the message to both men.

Tony met Steve in the hall when he was in front of Fury's door.  "He probably got an update from his boy. Hope it isn't bad news...."

Steve nodded. "Here's hoping." He knocked on the door.

"Come in," Fury's voice called.

Steve opened the door and stepped into the room, closing the door behind him and Tony. "Did you hear from Jack?"

Fury nodded. "Spiders reached out to him. He told him he has one of his spider scouts in the room with Harley, for if Gwen intends to kill him before a rescue can be made. He's going to stop her...and has asked Jack to get Harley to safety, as he doesn't believe he'll survive the encounter."

Tony swallowed hard and nodded. "We'll be ready. I'm assuming Jack would bring him to the same area we opened the portal before."

"That's what he told me," Fury replied. "Spiders left a scout with him, so that he can let him know as soon as it's necessary."

"So his spiders can see and immediately relay information to him?" Steve asked.

"Yes," Fury confirmed. "But he's convinced the others at the base that he can't get any information until his scout rejoins the horde."

"Alright. Well, we'll be ready. I'll make sure Friday keeps an eye open, too. Just in case." Tony smiled wearily. "Anything else we should know?"

"I don't believe so." Fury noticed the weariness. "I don't think anything's going to change in the next few hours, Tony. You need to get some rest."

"It's barely past noon. Even if I can't do anything to help with the rest of the prisoners... I need to handle some base things. Make sure everything keeps running smoothly. Especially since I have Friday doing so many other things we can't do." Tony smiled. "I'll try to catch a nap if I'm able."

"Fury's right," Steve said mildly. "I think you should make having a nap your first priority, Tony. The base isn't going to fall apart if you take a couple of hours to sleep."

"It just might!" Tony snarked, a bit irritably due to being tired. "I just need to check a few numbers... Make sure the air filtration is working. We're underground...."

"If I might suggest, sir," Friday interjected. "But master Yondu and Quill are familiar with air systems and such... Having lived in space ships most their lives."

"Can you ask them to check, please, Friday?" Steve requested, placing a hand on Tony's shoulder and gently squeezing. "And ask Pepper and Mordo to meet us in their room, too, please?" he requested. He would have asked Tony to send the message, but wasn't sure Tony's irritability would make him argue.

"Oh, come on. Really? You're gonna call in my mates to gang up on me?!" Tony bristled. "I can talk to Yondu and Quill just fine without babysitters! And I'd still need to explain my systems to them, even if they take over monitoring them."

"Tony. I know full well you wouldn't accept this kind of attitude from one of your kids," Steve said seriously. "I'm not going to accept it from you." He adjusted his grip on Tony slightly, planning to lead the younger man from the room.

Fury cleared his throat. "Rather than drag him through the hallway like an errant child, just take care of things here," he suggested. "Wouldn't be the first time I've witnessed it," he muttered.

Tony's eyes widened at both men's words. "I'm not one of my kids! And it isn't like I'm wrong!" Tony protested. "I would have to explain the system to Yondu and Quill... Even if they take over handling it!"

"Tony. You're arguing with me on your health. And you don't need to check the numbers straight away. If anything was wrong, Friday would tell us." As he spoke, Steve led Tony over to the chair in the room and sat down, depositing the other man across his lap. "Believe me, I know how much stress you're under right now. But working yourself into the ground isn't going to help anyone. You need to take care of yourself first, before you can take care of anyone else." Steve rubbed Tony's back and then proceeded to bare the younger man.

Tony swallowed hard as he found himself over Steve's lap, bared. His first instinct was to fight; Steve and Fury didn't understand how sensitive the systems were, or how important it was to check and make sure the numbers were right. But... Steve was right. It could wait a couple of hours. It didn't have to be done right this instant. He just had so many things that needed his attention and he was stressed. And worried. And... And all the fight drained out of him as Steve took control. "I don't want a spanking..." he whined, in a tiny, almost childish voice. He didn't try and get away, though. Steve was right. He wouldn't accept his kids risking their health. He couldn't risk his own either.

"Not wanting it is what makes it effective," Fury said dryly. Tony was positioned to be facing the bed and he reached out to gently grasp the other man's hands. "I don't recall this behaviour being allowed before Ultimus invaded either."

"It wasn't," Steve confirmed. He wrapped his arm snugly around Tony's waist, drawing the younger man tight against his stomach, and then lifted his hand and brought it down in a firm smack, carefully holding back his strength to make sure it would sting, but not be unbearably so.

"Yeah... Well... Like you said. Ain't the first time you saw me get my butt roasted..." Tony tried to sound flippant, but between stress, weariness, knowing he'd been arguing for no good reason, and the fact it did sting... His tone was just sad and tired. He teared up nearly immediately, but didn't try and hide it, even if he did feel like a baby and completely pathetic at crying so soon when Steve had barely begun to punish.

Fury gently squeezed Tony's hands, even as Steve settled quickly into a pattern of swats, working his way down to mid-thigh before starting over from the top.

"I know this situation is scary and stressful and you're tired, Tony." Steve's voice was gentle, a stark contrast to the swats he was giving out. "But I won't let you overwork yourself. I won't let you harm yourself. And if you can't pull yourself back alone, I'll help you. Just like I used to."

"Okay..." Tony choked out, unwilling to keep silent for a statement like that. Steve's concern for him actually eased some of the stress, reminding him that he wasn't alone in taking care of everyone. He squeezed Fury's hands back, accepting the comfort and the help in not throwing his hands back to cover his stinging, becoming rapidly aching, bottom. He couldn't see for the tears and was soon breathing through his mouth, his backside twitching and wriggling slightly as he fought himself to not squirm the way his body wanted to.

"Don't fight your body's reactions, Tony. You don't need to worry. I can easily keep hold of you." Steve gently squeezed around Tony's waist, as he began a third circuit of smacks, going a fraction harder and faster.

The increased speed and strength made it impossible to hold still. It hurt. Tony began to squirm with abandon, tiny, choked cries escaping with each smack. Until he couldn't squirm anymore and just slumped over Steve's lap, crying hard.

Once Tony slumped, Steve moved the younger man's clothing back into place and shifted Tony onto his lap, wrapping his arms tightly around him. He shifted enough to allow Fury to also hug Tony, both of them offering the younger man comfort and affection.

Tony just continued to cry, hard, even as he cuddled against both the older men, accepting their comfort and care. The spanking hadn't even hurt that bad. He was crying out all the stress and anxiety that he'd been hiding from everyone.

Neither Steve or Fury were inclined to pull away or do anything other than comfort and soothe Tony, letting him cry out as much as he needed to. The important thing was that he knew they were both there for him.

When Tony finally calmed, his face was warm and flushed and he looked ready to fall asleep at any moment. He'd obviously been hiding how bad it was for a while, because now that he was no longer hiding, he looked horrible. He didn't look like he'd been crying. He looked sick.

Steve could see just how bad Tony looked and he carefully hugged the younger man tighter even as he requested, again, "Friday, please ask Pepper and Mordo to meet us in their room." He carefully stood, wrapping his arms around Tony to support his friend and lead him from the room.

Tony leaned heavily on Steve as they left.

Pepper and Mordo met them at the door to their room. Pepper's eyes widened when she saw her husband. "What happened? He was fine this morning!" she fretted, quickly opening the door so Steve could help Tony inside.

"He wasn't fine," Steve replied, his tone a combination of worry and affection. "He just did a good job of hiding it." He didn't add that he'd avoided pushing like he had once. It was clear that was going to change. He helped Tony into the room and settled the younger man on the bed.

"Once he wakes up, Stephen or Lincoln can check him for any signs of something that might be treated." Mordo waited for Pepper to situate herself before he joined them.

Pepper sighed. "I'd hoped he wouldn't be able to hide things like that, since we were bonded and able to feel each other more deeply." She crawled into the bed on one side of him, leaving the other side for Mordo. "We'll make sure he gets checked out as soon as he has rested...."

"Go... gotta tell Yondu and Quill..." Tony mumbled. Now that he realized he was going to be out of commission for a bit longer than an hour or two, he was worrying again about the base systems being checked.

"Tony, we can handle things while you rest and recover," Steve said seriously. "But I'm not having you working yourself to the point of exhaustion again." He lingered long enough to make sure he wasn't needed and then quietly left to give Tony time to rest.

Mordo settled in place and took Tony's hand. He didn't say anything, but sent an encouraging 'wave' of magic through the bond...a gentle push towards sleep.

"...Dad's mad at me..." Tony mumbled again, before Steve was out of hearing, and then promptly fell asleep.

Pepper snorted, gently brushing his hair out of his eyes and kissing his forhead before settling next to him with Mordo. "Good. You need people to be mad when you don't take care of yourself..." she whispered; not wanting to wake him up, but needing to say it.

Mordo gave a soft grunt of agreement, also not wanting to risk waking up Tony...but he couldn't say Pepper was wrong.

Pepper didn't need to sleep, but she stayed close so that Tony could. He was sleeping peacefully with both his mates next to him.

***

Stephen saw Steve in the hallway. "Friday said that I needed to give Tony an examination later, once he'd woken up? Did something happen?"

"It seems like the radar I used to have for telling when he was overworking and needing a break has stopped working," Steve said, a wry note slipping into his voice despite the obvious worry. "I didn't realise how bad it had got until I just stepped in and made him rest." He didn't need to tell Stephen exactly how that had been accomplished. He did say, "When his guard was finally down, he looked in a lot worse shape than I was expecting. It might just be exhaustion and stress and worry...but it'll help if you can examine him."

Stephen nodded. "I'm not surprised he was hiding it, to be honest. He has taken on a lot of responsibility for this base that he should delegate, but it's hard to let other people take charge of things you've been handling when they are really important things and you aren't sure they'll understand what to do. If it weren't for the fact Lincoln is here and a very capable doctor, and the fact the Bruce is able to help in emergency situations... I'd probably be taking on all responsibility for the health of everyone here and be stressed out myself. Being able to share that responsibility with another person, and knowing we have a third person for backup, is an immense help."

"Unfortunately, this is a fairly common problem that Tony does have," Steve said. "But maybe you should tell him what you just told me. In temperament and personality, the two of you aren't all that different. So something that helps you might help him too."

Stephen nodded. "I don't think him knowing he needs to delegate is the problem. He doesn't strike me as someone who wouldn't know that. If he's like me, the problem is trusting that the people you delegate to know what they are doing. Maybe it is something we can discuss in our next group meeting. Have him make a list of everything he has to take care of on a given day, not counting the numerous emergencies or rescue situations that we enter into, and then find out who has any experience in that type of item. He can show them the system, or whatever it is he is doing... work with them a few days until they feel more comfortable with it... and then leave it their responsibility. They can always contact him if they run into something they don't understand, but the daily grind won't be on his shoulders anymore." Stephen shrugged.

"That's a good idea," Steve agreed. "We'll need to have a family meeting in any case. Fury's confirmed that Spiders made contact with Jack."

"Tonight, then? After Tony's rested and I've made certain it isn't anything worse than exhaustion that's hit him?" Stephen asked. "Friday can let everyone know."

"Of course, Doctor," the AI responded.

"It's settled, then. Let me go check on Fury. Make sure he is up to a group meeting..." Stephen smiled at Steve, preparing to go to the Director's room.

"I'll let you do that," Steve responded.

There was a gentle nudge through the bond from Peter; a request for contact, but not anything urgent or immediate.

"See you at the meeting, then..." Stephen went into Fury's room to perform the exam. I'll talk with you in a bit. I'm taking care of my patient right now... he sent through the bond, cognizant of the fact that Peter tended to get anxious if he didn't get a response of some sort. He then began talking with Fury and asking questions about how he was feeling.

*** 

Lincoln sat down next to Nebula and rolled his head around gently, wincing when he felt his neck crack. "So what have you been doing while I've been taking care of patients and doing inventory for the infirmary?" he asked, in a cheerful voice.

"Training. Mostly." Nebula paused and then added, "Rocket asked me for help with some of his inventions. I think there are about to be a lot of weapons upgrades."

"That's not a bad thing... Maybe he should talk with Tony and Friday about upgrading the base's defences." Lincoln smiled. "You'd be good at giving them ideas. You've had to deal with a lot of different situations."

Nebula nodded. "Although having my mind controlled by a multiverse invader is not a situation I have dealt with before...although I have been controlled for a lot of my life," she admited, thinking of Thanos.

Lincoln nodded. "I was more thinking about your knowledge of different weapons, weapons systems, how different groups fight... It might help us prepare for possibilities of what Ultimus might do or what he might use."

"He has access to multiple different universes. Which means that he has access to multiple different versions of ourselves." Nebula tilted her head thoughtfully. "Up until now, it felt almost like he was treating us like a flea. An annoyance to get rid of, but not a true threat. He's brought in dark counterparts, which likely means he will continue to raise the stakes."

Lincoln nodded. "Yeah. The more threatening we become, the more dangerous he's going to get. That's why I hope we can stop him before he fully realizes our capabilities."

"We need to be able to take the fight to him," Nebula said. "It's one thing he wouldn't expect or anticipate."

"Maybe... freeing the prisoners and getting this next base destroyed... will give us more information that we can find him and go against him directly," Lincoln offered. "If that is what is needed."

Nebula nodded. "Maybe. If nothing else, there will be more people freed from his control. More people he cannot control again."

"It'd be great if we found out that each person removed from his control weakened him somehow. But we couldn't possibly be that lucky..." Lincoln sighed.

"Maybe it doesn't. But each person removed from his control is one less we will have to ultimately fight," Nebula said.

"True. You wanna watch a movie?" he asked, with a smile.

"I can do that," she agreed. "You probably need to relax anyway, after spending so long working."

"Great! I have a movie I loved when I was a kid. It's a comedy adventure. 'The Goonies'. I know it's probably a lot silly, but I feel like watching silly..." Lincoln grinned.

"All right. Let's put it on." Nebula didn't really watch movies, but she figured that if her bond mate wanted to watch one, she'd willingly sit through it.

Lincoln gave her an impulsive hug, then tugged her into the media room so that they could watch the movie.

***

Colleen lay back on the bed in her room and stared at the ceiling. She felt a bit useless. She taught martial arts. But... either none of the people in the base needed to be taught, or they weren't interested. Or, at least, that's what it felt like.

"You look bored." Kingo walked over and sat on the bed next to her. "Guess living underground isn't quite as fun as it sounds on paper."

"I'm bored. But mostly because I feel useless. The only time I do anything is if they need a fighter to go out with their groups. But even then, they usually need those who are able to use weapons, since they don't like us to get too close until those we are after are subdued." Colleen sighed.

"I don't think anyone is feeling much better right now." Kingo moved behind her and began to gently rub her shoulders. "Given these dark counterparts, we're all having to be more careful about even leaving the base. Maybe once they're defeated, you and I could go out foraging for supplies together," he suggested.

"I'd like that. Even if I can't teach martial arts like I used to, at least it would be something useful." Colleen sighed softly, shoulders slumping in relief as he massaged.

"I think you might have the opportunity to teach a bit more," he commented, continuing to gently rub her shoulders. "From what's been said in the meetings, there are a lot of civilian prisoners we'll be bringing here. They'll need help learning how to defend themselves."

"That would be good. Everyone should be able to defend themselves..." Colleen smiled at him over her shoulder.

Kingo nodded. "Plus, you can help the children learn, too. I'm sure if we mention it in that meeting tonight, those in charge can make arrangements."

"That would be good. You could maybe work with them on more fun things... like arranging for the kids to do a play or something... if that sounds interesting to you..." Colleen suggested.

"Play is just as important as learning," he agreed.

"Well, sounds like we have some suggestions to make to the group, then." Colleen leaned back against him. "Thank you. For listening to me."

"One of the things I'm here for." He brushed a gentle kiss against her lips.

Colleen kissed back, just as gently. We were lucky we were able to bond together. I can't imagine fitting with anyone else.

Me neither, Kingo said honestly. He tugged her in closer, cuddling her, letting his feelings of care come through the bond.

Colleen cuddled back against him, a feeling of peace and happiness going through the bond.

***

America was feeling a bit restless. Now that she was no longer under Ultimus' control, she'd returned to her studies of magic...but she still couldn't get it right and she was beginning to get frustrated with it.

Misty could feel frustration through the bond. What are you trying to attempt? she asked curiously.

Magic. America sighed heavily. I only just got the hang of the spells before Ultimus invaded. Now it feels like I've gotta start over.

Have you asked Stephen, or Mordo, or Wong for a refresher? Maybe they could give you some hints... Misty suggested.

I think they're busy with other stuff, America replied. I know Stephen's been looking after Fury. And Mordo's with Tony and Pepper.

Doesn't mean you shouldn't ask. They may welcome a chance to do something different. If nothing else, they might have a book or something you could read to help you, Misty said.

I guess. I can probably ask tonight, America replied.

I think you should. It can't hurt to try, after all. Until then... why not take a break? We can explore the base a bit more. I'm sure there are some spots we haven't really seen much. Misty smiled.

That would be good, America agreed. I'd like to get a better look at the park. I miss just being able to explore outside. She sounded a bit wistful.

Yeah. I miss being able to roam freely outside too. Even going out for supplies now has to be quick and constantly watching. Misty was just as wistful. Let's go to the park. Maybe we can think of a plant or two to add.

Okay. America began heading in that direction, so she could meet her bond mate there.

Misty headed in that direction as well.

***

Loki was sitting in the rec room next to Quill, letting his arm rest lightly against his bond mate. "Would you like to see if our family members would like to play a game with us?" he asked. "Since we cannot leave the base at the moment, it would be nice to bond over some of the Midgardian games."

"I would! There's this game called Pit that your brother would probably love... it can get a bit rough..." Peter laughed.

"In other words, a normal day on Asgard." Loki chuckled softly as he used the communication device to send a quick message to his brother.

Peter grinned. "It isn't just rough, though. It takes luck and a bit of planning. Everything has to line up at the right time...."

"That sounds like fun." Loki's interest was immediately piqued. Strategy games always appealed to him.

Peter grabbed the card game out of the drawer he'd put it in, then took Loki's arm. He began to explain some of the more interesting times he'd played the game when a child; it was obvious the game had sentimental value to him. He hoped Loki, Thor and Yondu liked the game as much as he did.

Loki listened intently, fully focused on his mate, even when their respective family members came into the room to join them.

"What ya talking about, kid?" Yondu reached out to ruffle Quill's hair affectionately.

"This card game, I used ta play when I was a kid. Called Pit..." Peter grinned, leaning into the affection like a love-starved puppy. He could never get enough attention, from his lover or his father (even if the types of attention were different). He began to explain the rules of the game.

Yondu sat next to his son and pulled Quill against him, wrapping an arm around his son's shoulders and pulling him in close. "What're the rules?" he asked, interested.

Peter continued to explain the game.

"So... we trade cards, trying to get a set of one type of grain? And when we have the complete set, we reach in and take a spoon? And then everyone else who doesn't have a set yet has to grab the remaining spoons? And whoever doesn't get a spoon loses?" Thor asked curiously. 

"Yeah! The first one to get a spoon is usually safe, but everyone else is usually in a hurry to get a spoon, so the ones who win are the ones not afraid to risk their fingers..." Peter giggled.

Loki shrugged and gave his brother a quirky grin. "It sounds like this game might be very appealing to you, brother."

Thor's grin was manic. "I would like to play this game now. It is a challenge I look forward to!"

Yondu chuckled softly. "Sounds like fun," he agreed, settling in to enjoy the game with his family.

***

Kamala was sat cross-legged on the bed, doing some type of needlepoint. She had trained earlier in the day, but because of her lack of experience, the older leaders of the base hadn't put her on a team for rescuing people. Not yet, anyway. She needed something to occupy her time and she remembered her mother teaching her the craft when she was very young, so it made her feel closer to her family to do the stitching, even if they weren't on the base with her.

Mobius was sitting in the room with her, reading through one of the books he'd collected from the library. He kept the link open between them, so that she knew he was open to talking if she needed or wanted to.

I'm an adult... Kamala began a conversation with the observation. So why do most of those in the base... other than the ones my age... Want to treat me like a child who needs protecting? She wasn't angry or upset, more curious. Her parents had continued to treat her like a child and trying to protect her, even when she was an adult. But that was because they worried about her, even if they were obviously proud of her and her decisions.

In their eyes, it's not far from the truth, Mobius replied. The fact is that you and the others were under Ultimus' control. And it's the nature of most living things to protect those more vulnerable or younger than them. Or those who have been hurt before. He shrugged. They mean well. Having also been under Ultimus' control, I understand where they are coming from.

Kamala thought about it. Do you think I am too young? Do you wish I was older? This time, her feelings were hesitant. She'd been talking to Kate and Kate had mentioned how she and Norman had to work things out slowly because the age difference bothered him. Did her and Mobius' age difference bother him?

It's like you said. You're not actually a child. Mobius shrugged. And I've been around for long enough to see how attitudes towards relationships and age differences have changed over time.

Kamala smiled at that, relaxing. You were around all the times... she pointed out. But you didn't live through them all. Do you remember what actual time you are from? Before you became a time traveler who existed outside of time?

I don't, Mobius replied. I found out I was a variant. Unfortunately, things went wrong before I could find out who I was a variant of and where I was from.

Kamala frowned at that, a feeling of sadness for him leaking through the bond. And now Ultimus has messed everything up more. She set her needlepoint to the side and stood, moving over to stand in front of him. I will do whatever I can to make sure you are happy. She smiled at him, before leaning over and kissing him chastely.

I appreciate that. But you're already doing it. He returned the kiss, just as chastely.

I am? She slanted her head and gave a confused smile. But I haven't done anything...

You're being supportive and caring and that's more than enough. He smiled at her, his feelings through the bond sincere and happy.

Kamala grinned at that, carefully sitting in his lap and wrapping her arms around him, snuggling. I'm happy. And safe. And love you!

I love you too. He wrapped his arms tight around her.

Kamala cuddled close, nuzzling his shoulder and neck. She wouldn't be against going further, but this was really more about connecting with him, so she let her affection and love and desire for him travel through the bond, but left it entirely to him what exactly they'd be doing. If he wanted to keep reading while snuggling her on his lap, she would be just as happy. She leaned up and kissed his cheek, then his nose, then his lips, before settling in place again.

Mobius didn't see any reason to push for more sexual affection. Through the bond, it was clear that he was content to just sit and cuddle with her, giving and receiving affection.

****

Peter Tom and Sersi were settled in their room, much like numerous other members on base. They were sat at a tiny table Peter brought in, looking at an old store flyer advertising different items. That. If we can find that, I'd be very impressed and happy. Peter gave an impish grin.

Sersi looked. Kiwi? she asked curiously. Wasn't the other Peter growing fruits and vegetables in the base greenhouse?

Yes. But he was limited to plants and saplings he could find in greenhouses in this area. Which means he only got plants that grow naturally in this area. Kiwi doesn't naturally grow in New York. Peter shrugged.

Where does it grow? Ikaris asked. We can talk to the sorcerers about opening a portal there. At least once the threat from the dark counterparts is gone.

Lots of places that aren't New York... Pete grinned. I think California grows them. He paused, a sad look on his face. If it takes longer than we want to get Ultimus out of this dimension... Maybe Mr. Stark has other places in the world where we can set up bases? Then Dr. Strange or Mr. Wong can set doorways between them; underground, so there isn't risk of tracking a portal. So we can move around easier. Eventually, this base will fill up if we can't figure out how to get him out.

It might be worth mentioning. Even if no one wants to think of it taking that long... It could very easily take that long... Sersi looked at Ikaris.

I think it would be worth mentioning at the meeting tonight, Ikaris agreed. Portals can be used, but it may also be worth looking at underground tunnels. It might not be feasible to set up a permanent portal, even if it is underground. He wrapped an arm around Peter's shoulders and reached out to take Sersi's hand. So long as I have my family and bond mates close, I can live anywhere.

Peter leaned into Ikaris while Sersi squeezed his hand. We're not going anywhere! the younger man promised fervently.

Sersi leaned forward and kissed Peter deeply, before shifting and kissing Ikaris the same way, allowing Ikaris to taste the younger man on her lips. What he said... She gave a saucy grin.

Good. Ikaris returned Sersi's kiss. Then, gently pulling back, he pulled Peter in to kiss him deeply as well.

Peter returned the kiss, content to go with whatever his mates wanted to do.

****

Wanda was sitting next to her brother in the rec room, watching the Disney movie that the children had put on. She always enjoyed the movies. They made her remember her childhood, before her parents had died.

Pietro, although more than happy to spend time with his sister, was sitting with a glazed look on his face. He thought he might actually snap if he had to listen to any more music.

Druig felt his mate's 'anxiety' and wandered in to see what was happening. Oh. A movie. I thought someone was torturing you... he teased.

It's Frozen. Again. Pietro shuddered dramatically. Save me.

Makkari wandered in after Druig. 'Popcorn?' she signed, interested.

Pietro grinned at his other mate and offered her the bowl.

Okoye came in as well. This is what has you so happy? she asked curiously.

It reminds me of happier times, Wanda answered honestly.

I will watch with you. I have not seen this, Okoye decided.

Druig slanted his head and sat next to Pietro... And proceeded to send him every inappropriate thought he could think, making them match the music, so it was like he was watching a musical porn.

Wanda smiled at her bond mate and offered some of her own snacks and drinks.

Pietro shifted and nudged Druig gently in the ribs. It's bad enough without ruining sex with it.

Makkari eyed her two mates and then planted herself on both Pietro's and Druig's laps, snuggling in close to them.

How can you ruin sex?! That's not even possible! Druig protested, even as he began to snuggle Makkari.

Two things that should not be combined, Pietro joked. Disney and porn. He wrapped his arms around Makkari's waist and pressed in closer to Druig.

Druig chuckled. Very well. He settled back to enjoy being with his mates.

*** 

Shuri had finished up her work in her own lab and she reached out to Pyro. Are you doing anything right now? Would you like to take a walk in the park area? she asked him.

A walk would be very nice, Pyro thought back. Shall I meet you there?

Yes. I won't be long, she replied. I just need to clean up first. She did just that, before heading towards the park.

When Shuri arrived at the door to the park area, Pyro was waiting for her.

Shuri smiled and walked over to join him. Have you been doing much? she asked curiously.

Not really. Trying to learn about all the people we are now living with... Pyro admitted.

It can be a bit disconcerting with so many people around. Especially in such a small area. She reached out to slip her hand into his.

He gently squeezed her hand. It is. And I've always been more of a loner.

I think it might be difficult to leave the base right now, but once these dark counterparts have been dealt with, perhaps it might be possible to go out for a bit and not be around so many people. She kept hold of his hand as they entered the park area.

I hope so. Even if only for a few minutes... Pyro slowly relaxed.

We can offer to go out looking for supplies, she suggested, as they walked.

When we are allowed to do so, I will definitely volunteer for that... Pyro nodded.

Shuri fell silent, her mind calm and her thoughts tranquil. She walked peacefully next to her bond mate, content to just take this time together.

****

Shaun was in the gym, practicing his martial arts. He hadn't really done much since being freed and moving into the base. Even with the threats they were facing, they hadn't needed his help. Not yet.

Scott had joined Shaun in the gym and was sitting down as he watched his mate practice his martial arts. They'd spent a bit of time training together, but Scott had paused to take a break and allowed himself to watch his bond mate.

You notice anywhere I need to improve? Shaun smiled over at his mate.

You already look in top form to me, Scott answered honestly, allowing an appreciative feeling to come through the bond.

Truly? I don't need to lift an arm, shift a leg, cock a hip? Shaun wiggled his backside.

Well, when you put it like that.... Scott sent a mental image to the other man.

Shaun grinned at the image. Well... I agree. That would be better positioning. But for it to be most effective, I would need to strip. And there's a chance someone else would walk in and think we were in a battle... If they saw me in such a position. Maybe we should move to our room, so I can finish practicing there?

That sounds like a really good idea, Scott agreed. He stood and walked over to Shaun. We can shower in our room, too. He let his fingers trail gently down Shaun's arm.

I like that idea a lot... Shaun leaned into his mate as they left the gym, heading back to their room.

Scott kept in close contact with his mate as they went back to their room to 'train some more.'

When they'd reached their room, Shaun turned toward Scott. Train me? His smile was naughty.

Scott's answering smile was mischievous and he reached out to slowly strip Shaun.

Shaun's smile turned a bit more bashful once he was fully naked...but he held still so his mate could look at him, waiting for Scott to 'teach him' further. His member twitched in anticipation, beginning to fill.

Scott looked Shaun up and down slowly, making a low, appreciative sound before he moved into Shaun's space. He ran his hands over Shaun's bare arms and down his hips, pressing their bodies close together.

Shaun smiled again as he felt himself pressed to Scott. his erection grew. "So... what  position should I take, Sir?" he purred.

"I think we should start with the one I showed you in the gym." Scott pictured the position in his mind once more.

Shaun blushed slightly, as the position exposed his more private areas to Scott's view, but he obeyed, moving so that he was exactly the way Scott envisioned. The feeling of vulnerability caused his erection to grow further.

Scott smiled and gently stroked his fingers between Shaun's legs, ghosting lightly over his member. Through the bond, he allowed his feelings of appreciation and desire to flow unfettered.

Shaun shivered as Scott's featherlight touch caused his erection to finally reach fullness. He swallowed hard. I... I'm yours... he thought hesitantly. If... if you want to do something... I belong to you. You have every right.... He wasn't sure what he was asking for. Wasn't really asking for anything... other than Scott to have fun and do whatever entered his mind and not worry about if Shaun had said yes or not. Shaun was giving blanket permission for Scott to do anything he wanted. He trusted his mate.

I want to make you feel good. Scott's voice was open and honest. He kissed Shaun gently and then began to trail kisses along his mate's jaw and neck. He continued to kiss, edging down lower until he reached Scott's member. Then, he took it into his mouth.

Shaun took in a shaky breath as his member was surrounded by warm, wet heat. He whimpered softly. S...sir? S...should I stay in position? He shook slightly.

If you need to move to be more comfortable, you can. Scott's voice was gentle and reassuring.

I will try to stay still for you, sir... my legs are a bit shaky, though... Shaun thought ruefully, as desire pooled in his belly and he became warm with arousal.

Scott moved enough so that he could wrap his arms around Shaun's legs, holding his mate steady, as he continued to suck, sliding down until Shaun's member was buried deep in his throat.

Shaun whimpered more loudly, only Scott's grip keeping him steady. His member began to leak pre-cum for his mate. I... I want to give you everything, sir... whatever you want from me... want to give it to you. Let you take it from me....

You're already giving me everything. You're being so good for me, taking what I choose to give you. Scott let his hands move to Shaun's buttocks, gently squeezing.

Shaun let out a soft moan as his buttocks were squeezed. A feeling of intense belonging and desire flowed through the bond. All he wanted was to belong to Scott. To give everything to his mate, including his obedience. The bond might have been encouraging such behavior, but he wasn't confused or upset about feeling that way in the least. The bond was allowing him the freedom to give in to his needs.

Scott squeezed a bit more firmly, a bit more possessively. He let waves of desire and love and pride wash through the bond, so that Shaun could feel how much his submission meant to him. So he could feel how important he was to Scott.

Sir... I... I need to... Shaun whimpered. His arousal had finally reached a point that it hurt, it felt so good; and he knew he couldn't hold on much longer. He would if Scott ordered it, but it would be very difficult, unless he was able to lay down and devote his entire attention to not coming.

Let go, Scott ordered, moving his hands to Shaun's hips to hold his bond mate steady, ready for Shaun's release.

Shaun gasped then shuddered as his release tore through him. The only reason he remained standing was Scott's grip. He could feel Scott milking his release from him and he couldn't stop himself... he dropped just enough for it to be obvious, though he was aware enough that Scott didn't need to call him back. He only needed to keep hold of him.

Scott held Shaun close and tight throughout the whole of his release, swallowing everything down. Once his bond mate was finished, he released Shaun's member and sent a wave of pride and happiness through the bond. Thank you.

Master? Shaun felt a bit confused. I should be thanking you! He slowly sank down onto the floor beside Scott, reaching out and gently touching the bulge in Scott's pants.

You let me do that. You trusted me enough to do that. Scott reached out and gently cupped Shaun's face in his hands; leaned in to kiss his lips tenderly.

Shaun felt a rush of affection and love for his mate, returning the kiss, letting his hands rise to grip Scott's shoulders. Do you want to take me? You haven't come yet....

This wasn't about me. I wanted to bring you pleasure. Scott wrapped his own arms around Shaun.

Belonging to you brings me pleasure. Giving myself to you brings me pleasure. Whatever form it takes... Shaun smiled shyly. It felt really good, Master.

I'm glad. Scott kissed the side of his neck. Why don't we take a shower? Then we can cuddle in bed and maybe watch a movie, he suggested.

I'd like that. Shaun leaned into his mate, letting Scott lead him to their shower. As he was already naked, he didn't need to get ready for a shower.

It didn't take long for Scott to undress and then, once they'd showered together, the two curled up in bed with each other to watch a movie.

****

Sharon lay in bed, reading. It had been a long day. Listening to everyone talking about plans and their worries about what the 'Evil Tony and Pepper' would possibly do had been eye-opening... mainly because it surprised her that no one had ever planned for if her cousin did in fact go evil. She of course had never seriously considered the possibility that Tony would be bad; she knew his heart was good, even if he'd made very questionable decisions when younger, but still. She'd thought about what she'd do if he ever did go bad. As a result, she'd had more suggestions than anyone else on what to do. It had amused Tony.

So. Did you ever truly think that Tony might actually turn evil? Or just figured that it was better to be prepared for every possibility? Coulson asked his bond mate, a trace of amusement creeping into his voice.

Be prepared... Sharon looked up with a coy grin. I never thought he'd actually go bad. Aunt Peggy would have kicked his ass three ways till Sunday if he had.

I'm not sure Tony in this dimension was able to go bad, Coulson said thoughtfully. He's had too many people believing in him and depending on him to risk that route. His counterpart probably had very little.

Sharon nodded. It would be helpful to know the differences between the two. See if the other one had any of the relationships that our Tony had. And if so, what was different about them. Because our Tony is very capable of being an evil bastard. He just had many reasons not to be.

I'm not sure it's possible to find out, Coulson replied. I don't think we have any choice but to take the bad counterparts out.

Sharon nodded. Yeah. Still. It would have been useful information. You coming to bed soon?

In a few minutes, Coulson replied. I just wanted to finish looking over some of these scans Friday pinpointed. In case there are any patterns in the locations of Ultimus' converted we weren't able to rescue.

Okay. Sharon went back to reading. It was peaceful.

As promised, it was only a few minutes later that Coulson came to bed, slipping in next to her.

Sharon immediately put her book on the nightstand and slipped under the covers to snuggle close to her mate. G'Night, sir. Love you.

I love you too. Coulson wrapped his arms around her in a tight embrace and closed his eyes.