Book One of the Shadows Series: Shadow of Redemption

The Young Avengers

At one final training session, Sam, Clint, Strange, Bucky, and Yelena all watched Sera. Those who hadn't already been seeing her progress were amazed. She drew on Strange's magic to create portals for the training dummies to fall through, Yelena's lethality to disarm and knock them out, and Clint's abilities with a bow and arrows to shoot them. But, her stamina and strength had also improved. She was able to defeat the second wave of dummies without her powers. Once she was done with the assessment, she was more than exhausted. But her audience clapped for her.

Sera did a little bow and almost passed out as she walked over to get her water. Sam steadied her and smiled proudly. "Way to go, kid. With that kind of demonstration, you'll be out in the field soon enough."

Sera grinned triumphantly. Sam and the others seemed to trust her now. But, she couldn't shake the feeling that HYDRA was coming for her. As the scientist had said two weeks ago, she was their greatest asset.

"We would like to introduce you to some new people," Clint said, shaking Sera from her thoughts. She nodded and followed the adults out the training room, Yelena and Bucky congratulating her on her hard work.

The sun dipped below the horizon as Sera made her way to the meeting room, her heart pounding with anticipation. Today was the day she would meet the younger Avengers, her potential new teammates. Bucky and Yelena walked beside her, their presence a comforting anchor in the sea of uncertainty. Inside, the young Avengers were already gathered, their expressions ranging from curious to cautious. Kate Bishop, Cassie Lang, America Chavez, Kamala Khan, and Peter Parker turned their attention to Sera as she entered. The room buzzed with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

Bucky stepped forward, breaking the silence. "Everyone, this is Seraphina Blackwell, or Sera. She's been training hard, and today, she's joining us on a reconnaissance mission."

Kate was the first to approach, extending a hand with a warm smile. "Welcome, Sera. I'm Kate Bishop. It's good to have you with us."

"Kate Bishop, she is a very good archer but a very annoying person," Yelena joked and Kate laughed mockingly. "Not as annoying as you," she muttered. Sera smiled at their conversation. Sera shook Kate's hand, her nerves easing slightly. "Thanks, Kate. I'm looking forward to working with you all."

Kamala beamed, her enthusiasm infectious. "Hi! I'm Kamala Khan. This is going to be awesome!" She reminded Sera of a little kid in a candy store. "Kamala is known as Ms. Marvel. She's a polymorph and can do some... interesting stuff." Bucky explained and Sera nodded, trying to keep track of everyone's powers and abilities.

Cassie Lang and America Chavez nodded in greeting, their expressions a mix of welcome and wariness.

Peter stepped forward, offering a friendly smile pushing their initial meeting out of his mind. "Hey, I'm Peter Parker. It's great to have you on the team."

Sera managed a small smile. "Thanks, Peter. Nice to meet you."

The introductions continued, and soon, the initial tension began to fade, replaced by a tentative camaraderie.

Sam and Clint entered the room, drawing everyone's attention. Sam's voice was steady as he addressed the team. "Alright, listen up. We've received intel about a potential HYDRA base reactivation. This mission is classified as low-risk, perfect for a reconnaissance run. And we will be right behind you guys if you need anything."

Clint nodded, his gaze serious. "Our goal is to gather intel without engaging unless absolutely necessary. Sera, you'll be paired with Kate and Kamala. Cassie, Peter, and America will provide backup."

Sera felt a surge of determination. This was her chance to prove herself. She geared up alongside the young Avengers, sharing brief, encouraging interactions that hinted at the beginnings of trust and friendship.