Book One of the Shadows Series: Shadow of Redemption

The Retrieval

The Quinjet sliced through the sky, its engines humming steadily as it made its way toward the HYDRA base. Inside, the atmosphere was a mix of tense anticipation and focused determination. The interior was dimly lit, with the team members scattered around, preparing for the mission ahead. Sera sat near the front of the Quinjet, her hands gripping the armrests as she stared out at the passing clouds. Bucky approached and took a seat beside her, his expression a mix of concern and resolve.

"Hey, Kiddo," Bucky said, his voice low but steady. "You doing alright?" Sera glanced at him, her eyes betraying her nerves. "Just a bit anxious. I know we've been through a lot, but this... this feels different." Bucky nodded, his gaze softening. "I get it. It's never easy facing something like this, especially with everything on the line. But you've handled yourself well in tough situations before. You're stronger than you think."

Sera managed a small smile. "Thanks. I'm trying to keep it together. It's just hard knowing that Evie's in there and I can't do anything but wait." Bucky placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "We'll get her out. You've got a whole team behind you, and we're all in this together. We've faced worse odds before." Sera looked at him, her eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and apprehension. "I hope so. It's just... I didn't expect to find her like this. After everything that's happened, it's hard to believe she's still alive."

Bucky's expression grew more serious. "HYDRA has a way of twisting things. They're experts at keeping people in the dark, even from themselves. But we know what we're up against now. We'll get through this."

Sera nodded, feeling a bit reassured by his words. "I appreciate it, James. It helps to hear that." As they continued to talk, the Quinjet began its descent, approaching the HYDRA base. The large, fortified structure came into view, looming ominously against the landscape. The Quinjet's advanced sensors and stealth technology kept them hidden as they flew closer.

Bucky stood up, signaling that it was almost time. "Alright, Ace. We're almost there. Get ready."Sera took a deep breath, her resolve hardening. She looked out at the base, steeling herself for the confrontation ahead. The Quinjet maneuvered into position, hovering silently above the base. The large compound sprawled below them, its perimeter guarded and its structures heavily fortified.

The team members gathered their gear, preparing for the imminent descent. Bucky approached Sera once more, giving her a reassuring nod. "Remember," he said, his voice firm but gentle, "we're doing this for Evie, for everyone we've lost, and for everyone we're fighting for. We've got this." Sera met his gaze, feeling a surge of determination. "Yeah, we do."

As the Quinjet began its final approach, the team braced themselves for the mission ahead. The base loomed below, and the time for action was at hand.

The Quinjet's ramp descended with a mechanical hiss, revealing the sprawling HYDRA base below. The team, clad in their tactical gear, prepared for the jump. One by one, they leaped out, their descent guided by parachutes that deployed with precision. Sera was among the first to hit the ground, landing smoothly and immediately taking stock of their surroundings. The base was a labyrinth of high-tech security and darkened corridors, the air thick with the scent of machinery and metal.

She fell into step beside Bucky, Yelena, and Thor, with the younger Avengers-Peter, Kamala, Kate, Cassie, and Riri-keeping close behind. Sera's role was clear: she would provide cover and protection, leveraging her power to mimic others' abilities and adapt as needed.

Bucky signaled to Sera, and she nodded, her eyes scanning the area for threats. Thor, wielding Mjolnir with ease, looked over at Sera with a mix of curiosity and admiration. "I've heard much about you, Sera. Let us see how you fare in the heat of battle." Sera gave him a small smile. "Just stick close and I'll keep you covered." Sometimes, she still felt vulnerable around the Avengers. In her universe, she killed them. A small part of her was worried that they'd want revenge. But the larger part was confident that she was safe, and that her new family would protect her at all costs.