DEFYING GRAVITY || MARVEL (4)

SEVENTEEN

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: THE BOAT

SOKOVIA

ZEMO LOOKED UP AT MEMORIAL.

He admired the work done to it, his hands resting in the pockets as he did. It took him back to the day he learned hos family passed away in the battle between Ultron and the Avengers. He still kept his wife's last voicemail when his family tried to evacuate.

The sound of footsteps caught his attention and turned to see Bucky. Bucky walked forward, stopping at Zemo's side, making him sigh.

"I thought you'd be here sooner. Don't worry. I've decided I'm not going to kill you."

"Imagine my relief," Bucky answered monotone as Zemo turned to face him.

"The girl has been radicalized beyond salvation. He's as stubborn as Steve Rogers before him. And it looks like Maggie supports him just like she does with Steve, no hesitation even after what's on her ledger."

Bucky clenched his jaw, tightening the grip on his gun.

"But you," Zemo paused. "They literally programmed you to kill, James, do what needs to be done. Karli has people everywhere, and there's only one way to make sure she cannot continue her mission."

"I appreciate the advice," Bucky said lowly. "But we're gonna do it our way.

"Yeah," he chuckled. "I as afraid you would say that."

Zemo looked straight into the barrel of the gun when Bucky raised it. He gave a nod to proceed in pulling the trigger. Bucky pulled the trigger, but the gun clicked and no bullets were released. Zemo's face contorted into a look of confusion, knowing well he wished to be reunited with his family in death. However, what he did in the past didn't owe him the kindness of an easy way out.

Bucky smugly lowered the gun and opened his vibrant um fist, dropping the bullets on the ground. Three of the Dora Milaje's walked up behind Zemo, blocking his way as Maggie came into view.

"Hello, Maggie," Zemo said, seeing her approach.

"I remembered when we entered Riga you kept talking about Sokovia," Maggie said, reaching both men. "At first, I thought it was because you wanted us to feel bad. However, you said you never got to see the memorial. And as if I'd ever let him meet you alone." Maggie then looked at Ayo, who stood behind Zemo. "Mind if I have a moment alone with him, Ayo?" She asked.

Ayo nodded, agreeing and walk away saying "five minutes," along with the other Doras. Bucky, however, stayed because Maggie knew he wouldn't leave her alone with Zemo either.

"I wasn't a part of the Avengers when they fought Ultron here. But I myself mourned the destruction of this place. It was never my home, but it was the home of someone I once knew and loved," Maggie started, a sad expression on her features. "But I understand how you feel. That feeling of losing everything and everyone you've ever loved. It is the one thing you and I have in common."

Zemo absorbed her words, hiding his expression. "I guess you are right about that," was all he said.

"All I felt for you was hate after what you did to us years ago. Hate for hurting for one of the few I had left, never understanding why. But now I understand that you have gone through the same heartbreak that I have and because of that... I forgive you."